Introduces programming concepts and Python syntax — variables, control flow, functions, data structures and debugging — building from a first script to a working calculator application.
To develop foundational programming skills in Python, preparing students for degree-level computer science study.
| Week | Topic & Activity |
|---|---|
| 13 | Programming Concepts AC1.1 Differentiate between high-level and low-level languages. AC1.2 Write and run a simple Python script. Lab: Hello World & Basic Syntax in Python. |
| 15 | Variables & Data Types AC2.1 Use variables, data types and constants. AC2.2 Implement sequence, selection and iteration structures. Coding Workshop: Control Flow Logic. |
| 17 | Functions AC3.1 Define and call functions to modularise code. AC3.2 Handle user input and output effectively. Lab: Creating a Calculator App. |
| 19 | Data Structures AC4.1 Use lists, tuples and dictionaries. AC4.2 Iterate over data structures to solve a problem. Coding Session: Working with Lists and Dictionaries. |
| 21 | Debugging & Testing AC5.1 Identify and fix syntax and logic errors. AC5.2 Use print statements/a debugger to trace a program. Debugging Lab: Fixing Broken Scripts. |
| 24 | Final Assessment Submission Final submission of Units 04 and 05. Code and report finalisation. |
Assessed by coursework (no written examination) — an assignment, report or portfolio task set at the start of Term 2. A formative draft is reviewed with tutor feedback in Week 20, and the final version is submitted by the end of Week 24. Graded Pass, Merit or Distinction, with plagiarism-checked submissions (Turnitin) and a signed Learner Declaration Form.