What does algorithm mean?
Word: Algorithm
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: Algorithm means a set of step-by-step instructions for solving a problem or doing a task, used especially by computers.
Synonyms: method
How do you spell algorithm?
Syllables: al - go - rithm
Tricky part: The ending sounds like rhythm, but it is spelt rithm, with an i and no y.
Watch out for: algorythm, algorithem, algorhythm
Memory tip: Algorithm and arithmetic are both maths words, and both hold the same r-i-t-h-m.
Algorithm in a sentence
Example 1: The search engine uses an algorithm to choose which pages to show first.
Example 2: Our computer teacher asked us to write an algorithm for making a sandwich.
Example 3: A good algorithm solves the puzzle in the fewest moves.
Fun Fact
The word comes from the name of al-Khwarizmi, a mathematician who worked in Baghdad more than 1,100 years ago.
Practise the CREST Way
Spell-o-Spell
Choose the incorrectly spelt word:
a) algarithm
b) keyboard
c) computer
d) calculator
Show answer
a) algarithm. The second beat is go, with an o.
Word Cookie
Find the extra letter in the word:
allgorithm
a) r
b) o
c) g
d) l
Show answer
d) l. The word opens with al, as in the name al-Khwarizmi, with one l.
Word Connection
Choose the synonym of the word: algorithm
a) mistake
b) guess
c) procedure
d) accident
Show answer
c) procedure. A procedure, like an algorithm, is a set of steps followed in order.
Word Cookie
Find the misspelt word in the sentence:
The library app uses an algorithm to list the books in alfabetical order.
a) library
b) algorithm
c) alfabetical
d) books
Show answer
c) alfabetical. Alphabetical spells its f sound with ph, as in alphabet.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. A recipe for making tea is like an algorithm because it ____.
a) needs a stove
b) can be shared
c) is written down
d) lists steps in order
Show answer
d) lists steps in order
2. When a computer follows an algorithm, it ____.
a) carries out set steps
b) switches itself off
c) makes up its own rules
d) picks steps at random
Show answer
a) carries out set steps
