Programming 1: Sequence

In this lesson, we will learn that computers need clear and precise instructions in order to perform the expected task. We will also be taken on a journey from machine code to high-level languages in order to discover how a computer interprets instructions.

In this lesson, we will be introduced to a Python IDE. We will learn about the function of an IDE and why programmers use these to write programs. We will be given some simple code to predict, run, investigate, and modify. Whilst we take our first steps in Python programming, we will also learn about common errors and error types.

In this lesson, we will find out about variables. We will learn about the purpose of variables, but also the technical aspects of creating variables to a uniform standard. Variable declaration is not used in Python, so a wider look at this through other programming languages will help us gain an insight into its meaning.

In this lesson, we will start to add interactivity to our programs by using the input() function. Whilst learning about input, we will be introduced to functions and data validation techniques. These will be covered in more detail later on in the course.

In this lesson, we will focus on interpreting and creating flowcharts. We will use our knowledge of writing simple sequences and subroutines to follow a flowchart, and write the code that it represents. We will be given time to write our own simple flowcharts in order to practise using the symbols that we have learnt during the lesson. This is an introduction to flowchart design and will be built upon throughout the unit.