L1-3 Computer Programming - Full Year (KA)

Course Overview

This course will start with a look at what an algorithm is and different methods we can use to search for something and sort lists of things. Then we will start on Python programming from the very basic concepts at Level 1, printing things to the screen, typing things into the program, storing things separately or in lists, repeating parts of the program and making decisions. At Level 2, we look at better program design structures and create a Graphical User Interface (GUI) to control the program more easily. At Level 3 we look at Object Oriented Programming techniques.  We’ll use Python as our programming platform because it is free to download and use.

This course is aimed at year 11 students with little or no programming experience but an interest in the field. Older students can develop their programming skills but need to be aware of the limited number of credits at higher levels.

The projects completed through the year will cover the requirements for 5 internal Achievement Standards.  The course offers 23 credits: 11 at Level 1, 6 at Level 2 and 6 at Level 3

Topics covered include at Level 1:

• Algorithms

• Problem solving and planning how to tackle problems.

• Basic programming concepts: Input/Output, Loops, Decisions

• Data types and getting the computer to do maths efficiently

• Lists

Topics covered include at Level 2:

• Defining methods

• Extending programming skills with more functions and GUIs

Topics covered include at Level 3:

• Object Oriented Programming concepts: objects, instances and inheritance