Functions in programs
I can create a program that uses a function to return values.
Functions in programs
I can create a program that uses a function to return values.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- A function is a named block of code that is called to perform a task and will return a value.
- A return value is a value that is returned to the calling program.
- Arguments are values provided to a subprogram at the time it is called.
- Subprogram parameters are values used by the subprogram that are passed from the arguments when it is called.
Keywords
Function - a subprogram that returns a value
Return value - a value that is returned by a function
Parameter - used in a subprogram to allow values to be passed into them
Argument - values held in the brackets of a subprogram call, which are passed into a subprogram via the parameters
Common misconception
When a function returns a value it can be used throughout the program that called it.
The return value needs to be stored if it is to be used later in the program that calls it.
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Functions in programs, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Functions in programs, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
When programmers write code, they use a special tool called an IDE (Integrated Development Environment). In an IDE, different colours are used to help programmers understand the code:
- • Blue - numbers and boolean values
- • Green - strings
- • Purple - keywords
When programmers write code, they use a special tool called an IDE (Integrated Development Environment). In an IDE, different colours are used to help programmers understand the code:
- • Blue - numbers and boolean values
- • Green - strings
- • Purple - keywords
a subprogram that executes a block but does not return a value
a subprogram that returns a value
a value that is returned by a function
an expression that passes control and arguments to a subprogram
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
a named block of code that performs a task and returns a value
values used by the function that are passed to it when it is called
a value that is returned by a function
values provided to a function at the time it is called