Decomposition | Year 6 Computing PDF Download

What does decomposition mean?

Decomposition refers to the process of breaking down a complex problem or task into smaller, more manageable parts. This concept is utilized across various fields to simplify challenges and enhance problem-solving.

• Science: In science, decomposition occurs when a substance breaks down and decays over time, revealing its constituent elements.
• Mathematics: In mathematics, decomposition involves partitioning numbers and intricate calculations into simpler components to facilitate solving complex numerical problems.
• Design Technology: Within design technology, decomposition is employed to deconstruct a project into a series of smaller and more achievable tasks.
• Computing: In computing, decomposition is used to break down a computing task into a series of steps or an algorithm, making it easier to understand and implement.

Decomposition is not limited to academic settings but is a valuable skill in everyday life. It can aid in organizing tasks like planning family meals, arranging events such as birthday parties, and tackling homework effectively.

Using decomposition for complicated projects

• Decomposition involves breaking down complex projects or tasks into smaller, more manageable parts. 
• By dividing a large task into smaller tasks, it becomes easier to understand what needs to be done. 
• These smaller tasks can be distributed among a team, allowing different individuals to work on various parts of the problem and then merge their solutions to complete the project collaboratively.

Designing a computer game

• Creating a computer game is a complex undertaking.
• There are numerous considerations, designs, and plans involved.
• Game designers employ decomposition to break down the process into smaller components.
• The initial step is to compile a list of the primary components of the computer game.

Story

We need to plan the narrative.

• What is our game about?
• Where do the players start?
• What is their mission in the game?
• How do they win or lose?
• What is the end goal?

Setting

• Where is the game set?
• The game can be set in various locations, such as a castle overrun by fire-breathing dragons or a high-speed racing environment where players collect points along the way.
  

Characters

• Who is in the game?
• What powers do they have?
• What are their quests and missions?
• What actions can they perform?

Breaking Down Game Design into Smaller Parts

• After breaking down the game and considering each smaller part, game designers may further decompose each component.
• For instance, in designing the game setting, they would need to address background graphics, music, and sound effects.
• Similarly, for each character, considerations include hair color, costumes, accessories, and movement animations.

Working with Different Teams and Groups

• When working on a project involving different teams and groups, it is essential to break down the entire project into smaller, manageable parts. Each of these smaller parts can then be addressed individually. 
• The code for each section can also be divided and developed separately.
  
• During the development process, game designers may delegate certain tasks to external teams or specialized companies, such as graphic designers or music composers. 
• Once all the individual components are completed, they can be integrated to create the final computer game.

Breaking Down Complex Real-World Systems

• Consider the intricacies of managing traffic flow in a bustling city as a large and intricate problem. To ensure smooth traffic movement, numerous interconnected devices and systems must work in harmony:
  
  • Road signs
  • Traffic lights
  • Cameras
  • Speed cameras
  • Crossing lights
• The computer systems and software responsible for managing these devices are highly intricate, adapting to the ever-changing traffic conditions.
  The computer systems and programs that manage these devices are highly intricate and must handle constantly shifting conditions.
• The task is too extensive for a single system or program to manage alone.
• Without breaking down these complex parts into smaller, more manageable sections, it would be impossible to prevent traffic jams entirely.
• Each small section of the system is handled independently by various devices, programs, and teams of people.
• All these different parts are interconnected into networks that can communicate with each other and collaborate to maintain smooth traffic flow.