What is the most efficient way to sort nine items if you only have the ability to swap consecutive items? This activity provides you with nine items (numbers) not initially in order so that you can develop a strategy.

By clicking on the small purple buttons between pairs of cards you can change the order of the cards. You will need to switch pairs a number of times until you obtain the objective, the items sorted in order with the smallest ion the left and the largest on the right. Click the Check button when you think you have finished.

Bubble Sort

The bubble sort is a simple sorting algorithm. The algorithm starts at the beginning of the data set. It compares the first two elements, and if the first is greater than the second, it swaps them. It continues doing this for each pair of adjacent elements to the end of the data set. It then starts again with the first two elements, repeating until no swaps have occurred on the last pass. (Wikipedia - Sorting Algorithm)

From the beginning of computing, efficient sorting algorithms have been crucial in providing the services we enjoy today. There are many different ways of sorting data but the bubble sort is probably the easiest to understand.

Leave a comment below if you find a particularly good method of sorting the nine numbers above.

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Go Maths

Learning and understanding Mathematics, at every level, requires learner engagement. Mathematics is not a spectator sport. Sometimes traditional teaching fails to actively involve students. One way to address the problem is through the use of interactive activities and this web site provides many of those. The Go Maths main page links to more activities designed for students in upper Secondary/High school.

Teachers

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