A symbol is something that stands for or represents something else. A plus sign (+), for example, is a symbol that tells you two things must be added together. Symbols have been used by humans since prehistoric times to convey information. Settled tribes, for example, may have made special marks on trees or rocks to indicate the border of their territory.
On a flowchart, symbols are used to help represent steps in a process. Flowchart symbols are primarily geometric shapes, such as circles and squares. They are usually labeled with the part of the process that takes place at that step. Each type of symbol usually represents the same type of action each time it is used. An oval, for example, is often used to signal the beginning or end of a process.
Why use symbols at all? Why not give a complete explanation of what must be done at each step? The answer is that using symbols to communicate is more efficient. Flowcharts can be followed by almost anyone who is familiar with the language in which they are written. If an oval symbol appears on the chart, the reader knows that a series of steps is beginning or ending at that point. Using a symbol also helps reduce the amount of writing or reading needed to communicate. It makes understanding easier. It also saves space. It allows what may be a complex process to be described in a compact way that is easier for the reader to grasp.
Flowcharts can be used for many purposes. In manufacturing they may describe the steps in a production process. In robotics, they describe the steps in programming a robot to perform a particular action.
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For this WebQuest, your job is to investigate ways in which symbols have been used to convey information. To demonstrate what you have learned, you will answer the questions included here. You will also complete one of the activities described at the end of this WebQuest.
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Read through the following questions. Then research the Internet resources that are provided for you. As you explore the sites, look for answers to the questions. Keep a record of any sites where you find answers by noting the title and URL (Internet address). For example:
(title) Technology Student Association
(URL) www.tsaweb.org
- It is generally accepted that humans began to use symbols about how long ago?
- When did Hindu-Arabic number symbols finally find wide acceptance throughout Europe and why?
- Why were Hindu-Arabic number symbols preferred over Roman numerals?
- What does an arrow signify on a flow chart?
- Which symbol is used to indicate a decision takes place or is required?
- What do you think might be some of the disadvantages of flowcharts?
- The symbols used for flowcharts have been standardized by the American National Standards Institute. Why do you think standardizing the symbols is helpful?
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Visit the Web sites listed here to find information that will enable you to answer the questions. You may use additional sites if you wish. Be sure to keep a record of any sites you use.
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Several activities are described below. Complete one of these activities (your choice) to demonstrate the understandings you’ve gained by going on this WebQuest.
- Create a poster showing at least 10 common symbols, such as a stop sign or the symbol for a crosswalk. Label each symbol telling what it represents.
- Logos are symbols developed by businesses to identify themselves to customers. Examples include McDonald’s golden arches and the Nike “swoosh.” Collect examples of at least five company logos from newspapers or magazines and share them with the class. Be prepared to discuss why a company might want to be represented by a logo.
- Create a flowchart describing a simple operation, such as brushing your teeth.
- Create a Web page that has an interactive flowchart.
- Create several of your own flowchart symbols and use them to relate some instruction or information. Would it help if the symbol somehow graphically represented the action being taken? Why or why not?
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