Computer Science for Kids

13. The Petrified Forest

Standards:

2‐AP‐10: Use flowcharts and/or pseudocode to address complex problems as algorithms

2‐AP‐16: Incorporate existing code, media, and libraries into original programs, and give attribution

The sun is hot overhead, and you feel tired. “Let's rest,” says the Guide, sitting down in the shadow of a tall rock‐like object. You are happy to comply, and after a few minutes, you lean against the shiny, crystal‐like veined stone.

“Careful,” warns the Guide, “it's fragile!”

You begin to observe your environment. You are surrounded by curious formations of fossilized wood that look like tree trunks that have been crystallized. Petrified wood is wood that has been turned into stone by a natural process called petrification. This part of the forest is hundreds of millions of years old! The Guide looks at the various rock formations and sighs. “This area is one of our most delicate parts of the forest,” she reveals. Surprised, you wonder how such solid stones could be in danger.

“While most of our forest residents mean no harm, sometimes the more … blundering types … bump up against these formations and crack them, tip them over, or damage them. They mean no harm, but the stones, while strong, are actually quite brittle,” says the Guide, frowning. “I would love to find a natural way to warn the residents that they're entering a fragile area that could be damaged. Could you help us? We might have to enlist the cooperation of some of our more lightweight citizens.” ...