Python programming constructs: sequencing, selection & iteration for Pearson specification CP423C

Linked to the Pearson 9-1 GCSE specification, learn how to write code to input, process and output data, and how to manipulate data stored in variables. Using the building blocks of sequence, selection and iteration you’ll begin to understand how programs are constructed to perform a multitude of simple and more complex tasks.

Summary

Take your first steps to becoming a competent teacher of Python programming; this CPD will develop your foundational knowledge around the Python language. This course references the Pearson 9-1 GCSE Computer Science specification, using programming questions and solutions from their specification and sample materials.

You’ll learn how to write code to input, process and output data, and how to manipulate data stored in variables. Using the building blocks of sequence, selection and iteration you’ll begin to understand how programs are constructed to perform a multitude of simple and more complex tasks.

You’ll gain confidence with lots of hands-on experience under the guidance of highly successful teachers of computer science.

Mapped closely to the specifications of GCSE computer science, the course will provide you with essential knowledge leading to expertise in teaching programming.

References of exam boards:

This course has been developed to reference the Pearson 9-1 GCSE Computer Science specification, if you’re not teaching the Pearson specification you may wish to consider booking the equivalent AQA or OCR version of the course. Alternatively, you may wish to book the agnostic remote or face-to-face version of the course.

Who is it for?

You’ll benefit from having some experience of basic programming, perhaps using a block-based language, to access this GCSE-level subject knowledge enhancement. You should have some understanding of the Pearson GCSE 9-1 Computer Science specification.

If you are entirely new to computer science, we recommend first participating in our one-day course: An introduction to algorithms, programming and data in computer science.

What topics are covered?

01 | Inputs, outputs & variables – explore how to utilise inputs and outputs in Python, including the use of variables and efficient use of simple data types.

02 | Building a working program – create a working Python program using inputs, outputs and variables based upon a set of user requirements.

03 | Selection – learn how to write branching programs using selection. Understand how to apply operators and use nested selection within a program.

04 | Working with selection – create a working Python program using selection and other programming techniques learnt.

05 | Iteration – this session will help you create code that repeats using count and condition controlled loops in Python.

How will you learn?

Scheduled live, interactive online sessions led by an experienced practitioner. Flexible Professional Development Leader-supported, participant-led sessions, involving deep exploration of the subject content. The course will model teaching approaches that can be taken back to the classroom.

How long is this course?

This course is approximately 5 hours in duration, split across several days.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will:

Become familiar with the Python programming language
Develop some basic program constructs using variables, handling user input and output to the screen
Use mathematical and logical operators to build functionality into programs
Follow the flow of a program, identifying values held in variables at different stages of execution
Create and control indefinite loop structures in programs
Begin to evaluate programs and suggest improvements