Computational Thinking in a Science Classroom

1. Logical Reasoning

1.1. Testing Hypotheses

1.2. Developing Lab Procedures

1.3. Interpreting Scientific Graphs & Data

1.4. Looking For Mathematical or Visual Patterns

1.5. Troubleshooting Laboratory Equipment

2. Decomposition

2.1. Designing Experiments

2.2. Solving Mathematical Problems

2.3. Modeling a Natural Phenomenon

2.4. Planning a Field Trip

2.5. Repairing a Malfunctioning Device

3. Designing Algorithms

3.1. Following Laboratory Protocols

3.2. Analyzing Scientific Data

3.3. Programming Computer Simulations

3.4. Developing a Problem-Solving Routine

3.5. Designing Games for Remediation or Review

4. Abstraction

4.1. Developing Models of Scientific Concepts

4.2. Graphing Data Collected from Experiments

4.3. Applying Mathematical Equations

4.4. Creating Blueprints or Mind Maps

4.5. Restating a Theory or Law in Your Own Words

5. Evaluation

5.1. Analyzing Experimental Results

5.2. Testing Hypotheses

5.3. Peer Reviewing Other Groups' Data and Lab Results

5.4. Investigating for Errors in Experimental Data

5.5. Validating Scientific Models

6. Organizing Data

6.1. Creating Data Tables

6.2. Plotting Graphs

6.3. Developing Spreadsheets with Embedded Calculations

6.4. Calculating Statistics from Scientific Data

6.5. Reordering Data Based on a Set Criteria

7. Identifying Patterns and Generalization

7.1. Recognizing Recurring Trends in Scientific Data

7.2. Forming Broader Principles from Scientific Theories

7.3. Making Predictions from Scientific Data

7.4. Observing Common Behaviors in Experiments with Organisms

7.5. Developing Models from Scientific Data