11.2.1.7 use flow charts to input, process, store and output data in computing systems

Flowcharts

A flowchart is one of the methods for representing an algorithm.

A flowchart is a visual representation of the sequence of steps and decisions needed to perform a process

Symbols of flowchart

Symbol (Shape)	Name	Purpose
	Terminator Start / Stop	An oval represents start and stop point
	Input / Output	A parallelogram represents input data or output data
	Arrow	An arrow is a connector that shows relationship between the representative shapes
	Process (Action)	A rectangle represents a process
	Decision	A diamond indicates a decision
	Loop	A hexagon the hexagon shows start of loop
	Subroutine	A predefined process symbol indicates the execution of another subalgorithm

Advantages

• A great tool to see the sequence of an algorithm.
• It clearly shows what decisions need to be made along with the inputs and outputs.
• Just by looking at the flowchart, you can see how simple or complex the algorithm is.

Disadvantages

• Drawing straight shapes can be time consuming. Although there are special applications only for flowcharts.
• It is very inconvenient to change the flowchart after completion.
• Not very useful for very complex and large algorithms.

Questions:

1. What is a flowchart?
2. What symbols do you know?
3. Explain the purpose of each symbols.

Exercises:

Ex. 1

Ex. 2

Ex. 3 (Author: Litvinova Olga - CS teacher of NIS Pavlodar)

Ex. 4

Ex. 5 (Author: Litvinova Olga - CS teacher of NIS Pavlodar)

Ex. 6 

Ex. 6

Tasks Flow Charts for Practical Tasks

Exam questions: