Introduction to Python Programming
This lesson introduces students to the basics of Python programming, focusing on output (print), input, and variables. Students will progress from writing simple strings to creating interactive programs that store and manipulate user data.
Learning objectives
- Identify and use the print() function to output text and numbers.
- Create and assign values to variables using appropriate naming conventions.
- Use the input() function to capture user data.
- Identify and correct basic syntax errors in Python code.
Lesson plan (60 minutes)
Introduction · 5 min
Starter: Unplugged activity. Students follow 'blind' instructions to draw a simple shape to demonstrate how specific instructions must be.
Teacher Input · 10 min
Teacher Explainer: Introduction to Python syntax, the print() function, and variables.
Demonstration · 5 min
Live Coding: Teacher demonstrates writing a 'Hello World' and a simple greeting program using input().
Independent Practice · 25 min
Worksheet Practice: Students work through Support, Core, or Stretch worksheets based on confidence.
Extended Task · 10 min
Coding Challenge: Students create a 'Robot Introduction' program that asks 3 questions and prints a summary.
Review · 5 min
Plenary Quiz: 8-question multiple choice quiz to check understanding.
Key vocabulary
- Syntax
- A set of rules governing how code must be written to be understood by the computer.
- Variable
- A named location in memory used to store data that can change.
- String
- A sequence of characters (text) usually enclosed in quotation marks.
- Integer
- A whole number (no decimals).
- Function
- A specific command that performs a task, followed by parentheses.
Core worksheet (first questions)
- Write a line of code to print the sentence: Python is fun
- In the line 'x = 5', what do the items on the left and right of the '=' represent?
- Create a variable called 'score' and set its value to 0.
- What is the difference between a String and an Integer?
Quiz (sample)
1. What is the purpose of the print() function in Python?
- A. A function to output text to the screen
- B. A way to send documents to a printer
- C. A command to delete code
- D. A type of variable
2. Which of the following is the correct syntax to print the word Hello?
- A. print(Hello)
- B. print "Hello"
- C. print("Hello")
- D. output("Hello")
3. What is a variable in programming?
- A. A type of computer hardware
- B. A container for storing data values
- C. A list of instructions
- D. A mathematical error
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