Foundation · Computing
Introduction to Programming with Python
Unit 04 — Elective — Semester 2
Unit 04 — Elective — Semester 2
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 |
|---|---|
| 1 | 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. |
| 3 | Variables & Data Types AC2.1 Use variables, data types and constants. AC2.2 Implement sequence, selection and iteration structures. Coding Workshop: Control Flow Logic. |
| 6 | Functions AC3.1 Define and call functions to modularise code. AC3.2 Handle user input and output effectively. Lab: Creating a Calculator App. |
| 9 | 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. |
| 12 | Debugging & Testing AC5.1 Identify and fix syntax and logic errors. AC5.2 Use print statements/a debugger to trace a programme. Debugging Lab: Fixing Broken Scripts. |
| Final exam week | Final Assessment Submission Final submission of all units of the semester. Code and report finalisation. |
Assessed by coursework (no written examination) — an assignment, report or portfolio task set at the start of Semester 2. A formative draft is reviewed with tutor feedback as the unit’s midterm assessment during the teaching weeks, and the final version is submitted in the final exam week at the end of the semester. Graded Pass, Merit or Distinction, with plagiarism-checked submissions (Turnitin) and a signed Learner Declaration Form.