• Introduce students to algorithmic thinking and fairness with this 10-page, black-and-white Grade 6 unplugged coding math worksheet set, designed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day and modern math instruction
• Students analyze simple, computer-free “algorithms” written as rules, steps, and patterns, then decide whether outcomes are fair, biased, or unequal using math and logic
• This resource is math-first, non-political, and MLK-appropriate, emphasizing fairness, equity, consistency, and justice through numerical reasoning rather than opinion
• Each worksheet includes 10 clear questions, minimal reading, and structured justification prompts that strengthen problem solving and logical reasoning
• Perfect for MLK Jr. Day lessons, coding-unplugged activities, enrichment, or anytime you want critical thinking tasks without screens

What’s Included:

Worksheet 1: Equal Inputs, Equal Outputs?
• Skills: Numerical expressions, input–output rules, consistency
• Task: Test a rule with multiple inputs and decide whether the algorithm treats all numbers equally

Worksheet 2: Pattern or Problem?
• Skills: Arithmetic sequences, expressions, pattern analysis
• Task: Generate and analyze a number pattern to determine predictability and fairness

Worksheet 3: Biased Rule Alert
• Skills: Even/odd reasoning, expressions, logical comparison
• Task: Compare two conditional rules and identify unequal treatment between inputs

Worksheet 4: Fix the Algorithm
• Skills: Rule analysis, expressions, rewriting conditions
• Task: Identify bias in a conditional rule and redesign it so all inputs follow the same steps

Worksheet 5: Input–Output Table Check
• Skills: Proportional reasoning, expressions, tables
• Task: Determine the rule behind an input–output table and evaluate consistency and fairness

Worksheet 6: One Rule, Two Results?
• Skills: Comparing operations, reasoning with outputs
• Task: Analyze why different rules applied to the same input cause unfair outcomes and design a fair alternative

Worksheet 7: Step Count Fairness
• Skills: Order of operations, rule complexity, logical reasoning
• Task: Compare algorithms by step count and evaluate how complexity affects fairness

Worksheet 8: Pattern Breaker
• Skills: Pattern correction, expressions, consistency
• Task: Identify where a pattern breaks, fix the rule, and justify why consistency matters

Worksheet 9: Hidden Bias Test
• Skills: Multiples, conditional rules, logical reasoning
• Task: Detect hidden bias in an algorithm and rewrite it using a single fair operation

Worksheet 10: Design a Fair Algorithm
• Skills: Expressions, testing inputs, justification
• Task: Create and defend an original algorithm that treats all inputs equally

How It Helps Students:

• Builds strong foundations in logical thinking and algorithmic reasoning without computers
• Strengthens understanding of expressions, patterns, and consistency
• Encourages justification using math rather than opinion
• Connects modern concepts of fairness to concrete numerical reasoning

How It Helps Teachers:

• No-prep, print-and-go worksheets in black-and-white
• Perfect for MLK Jr. Day, coding-unplugged lessons, enrichment, or sub plans
• Minimal reading makes it accessible for diverse learners
• Clear, repeatable structure across all 10 pages

Solves Key Pain Points:

• Provides a modern MLK Jr. Day math activity without political language
• Introduces algorithmic thinking in a developmentally appropriate way
• Keeps focus on math while addressing real-world ideas of fairness and equity
• Offers high rigor with low material and technology requirements

This resource includes typographically styled fractions and exponents, along with auto-formatted elements, designed to expose students to a variety of visual representations. By incorporating both digital and traditional formats, students encounter mathematical expressions in ways they may not often see in standard textbooks. This approach enhances flexible thinking and supports adaptation to various digital tools, platforms, and real-world scenarios. It encourages a deeper conceptual understanding and strengthens students’ confidence with diverse mathematical notations.

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