Introduction to Programming

Know about components of computer programming.

What is computer programming? E.g. giving computers instructions known as code.

What is a programming language E.g. set of instructions used to produce various output eg BASIC, Python, JAVA.

Different types of programming language e.g. Python, Basic, Scratch, Javascript.

What is a computer programme? E.g. set of instructions that perform tasks when executed.

Assessment Criteria

• 1.1

  Outline the key elements of a computer programme.

• 1.2

  Identify different programming languages that can be used to create a simple computer programme.

Design a simple computer program to a given brief, using an algorithm.

Writing an algorithm – set of steps to be followed to solve a problem.

Introduction to flowcharts as an algorithm – steps as boxes – eg start/stop, process, input/output, direction of flow.

Introduction to pseudocode – sequence of actions – eg selection, loops, input and output.

Assessment Criteria

• 2.1

  Develop a simple algorithm using pseudocode for a computer programme to meet a given brief.

Develop a simple computer program to meet a given brief.

Structure of program code – eg sequence, selection and iteration.

Basic arithmetic – eg plus, minus, multiplication and division.

Data types – eg integers, raw strings, Boolean type.

Introduction to variables and constants.

Data input and output.

Comments in code – annotation of the source code – making easier to read. 

Assessment Criteria

• 3.1

  Create a simple computer programme to meet a given brief using programming language.

• 3.2

  Illustrate the code using a range of comments.