Learning Unit 4 Programming Theory

Question 1

We use computers

Answer 1

To help us solve problems.

Question 2

Computational thinking provides us with

Answer 2

A method (used to produced a solution) by taking a complex problem and using 4 key techniques in problem - solving process.

Question 3

4 key techniques to computational thinking:

Answer 3

• Decomposition
• Pattern recognition
• Abstraction
• Algorithms

Question 4

As a programmer, you need to make sure that you are

Answer 4

Solving the problem that the user intended.

Question 5

When you analyze a statement, do:

Answer 5

• Read the problem carefully and make sure you understand it.
• Underline words that describe what is to be done.
• State in your own words what you need to do.
• List all facts given about the problem.

Question 6

Pattern recognition:

Answer 6

• Maybe an existing program that can be used to solve the problem.
• Maybe be pre-written methods that can be called completely/partially solve the problem.
• Maybe existing generic algorithms that can be adapted to solve the problem.
• Some code may need to be repeated.

Question 7

Abstraction:

Answer 7

• Purpose: focus on what is important to the problem and ignore the rest.
• Most problems are very complex, one way to to manage it: break problem into parts (decompositions) and focus on each task individually.

Question 8

Algorithms:

Answer 8

Can be a flowchart/pseudocode.

Question 9

Data Structure

Answer 9

Information in the problem is stored in a data structure.

Question 10

Flow Charts:

Answer 10

• Used in place of pseudocode to represent an algorithm.
• Great at providing a more visual representation of a problem.

Question 11

Pseudocode:

Answer 11

• Start code with “begin” and finish with “end”. Indent all instructions between “begin” and “end”.
• One line of pseudocode is similar to a line of Java code.
• Assignment statement is arrow —- pointing left (not =)
• No semi-colons at the end of a statement.
• Variable types vary from one language to another, so don’t include any variable declarations.
• Do not use any method names that only belong to one language.
• Mathematical symbols are universal in any language and can be used.
• Use the word input when entering data from the keyboard.
• Use display when displaying data on screen.

Question 12

Trace Table:

Answer 12

Good way of locating a logical error and helps to understand the purpose of the program.