Introduction to basics of programming w/Python: variables, keywords, & syntax; debug/troubleshoot errors; work w/loops, functions, APIs.
create a series of lessons for KS4 computer science with programming challenges to be written in Python
Lesson 1: Introduction to Programming in Python
Objective: To introduce the basics of programming, including variables, keywords, and simple syntax.
Resources: Python interpreter.
1. Introduction and Overview (10 minutes): Explain the basics of programming, the different components involved, and why Python is a great language to learn.
2. Variables and Data Types (15 minutes): Explain the different kinds of variables and data types, and provide examples of how to work with them in Python.
3. Working with Loops (20 minutes): Demonstrate how to code simple loops in Python to achieve a desired outcome.
4. Working with Functions (20 minutes): Introduce how to work with functions in Python and demonstrate coding examples of standard operations, such as looping or sorting data.
5. Coding Challenge (15 minutes): Students should be given a basic coding challenge that they must solve using Python. The challenge should incorporate the topics they just learned, such as writing loops and working with functions.
Lesson 2: Debugging and Troubleshooting with Python
Objective: To teach students how to identify and resolve errors in their code, as well as gain an understanding of how to properly debug their programs.
Resources: Python interpreter and online resources for debugging help.
1. Introduction and Overview (10 minutes): Explain the basics of debugging in programming, including what could cause errors and bugs, and how to read error messages.
2. Common Errors (15 minutes): Demonstrate the most common errors, including syntax mistakes and logic errors, and how to identify and fix them.
3. Using Tools to Find Errors (20 minutes): Teach students how to use tools such as print statements, the debugger, and online resources for debugging help in Python.
4. Working with APIs (20 minutes): Introduce how to work with APIs in Python and demonstrate coding examples of standard operations, such as looping or sorting data.
5. Coding Challenge (15 minutes): Students should be given a debugging-focused coding challenge that they must solve using Python. The challenge should incorporate the topics they just learned, such as debugging, looping, and working with APIs.