Lightest and Heaviest: Sorting Algorithms

Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
Computers are often used to put lists into some sort of order—for example, names into alphabetical order, appointments or e-mail by date, or items in numerical order. In this activity learners compare methods (algorithms) for sorting a collection of containers into order by mass. The main activity invites learners to compare two methods; extension activities introduce three additional sorting methods as well as ways to mathematically analyze all the methods. Background information is included.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Set of 8 small containers with lids, preferably opaque, of same size (e.g. film canisters, yogurt cups, baby food jars)
  • Items to fill containers (e.g. sand, water, pennies, beans)
  • Balance
  • Copy of Worksheet: Sorting Weights (p29)
  • Copy of Worksheet: Divide and Conquer (p30)
  • Pencil

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Technology
      • Information and Communication
  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
      • Patterns
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Probability
    • Measurement
      • Units of Measurement

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • , ,

Funding Source:

  • Google, Inc.