Unit 8.2: It's All in the Planning: Pseudocode and Algorithms

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts of pseudocode, flowchart logic, searching algorithms, selection constructs, and micro:bit programming using MicroPython from Unit 8.2.

Algorithm

A list of step-by-step instructions designed to solve a problem before writing program code.

Pseudocode

A planning method that lists simple step-by-step instructions on separate lines with a start and a stop, using programming keywords without following a fixed syntax.

Variable

A temporary storage location whose stored value can be called upon and edited throughout a program.

Syntax

The precise rules governing how instructions must be written in a specific programming language.

Selection

A programming construct representing a choice between paths, where an instruction is executed if a condition evaluates to TRUE, and an alternative instruction runs if it evaluates to FALSE.

Double Equals ($==$)

A conditional operator used in algorithms and programming to carry out a comparison between two values, meaning 'equal to'.

Searching Algorithm

An algorithm used with large datasets to locate a specific data item, functioning even if the dataset is not ordered.

Linear Search

A searching algorithm that checks every item in a list sequentially from left to right until the target item is found or the end of the list is reached.

micro:bit

A programmable microprocessor featuring multiple inputs (such as buttons, light sensor, compass, accelerometer, microphone) and outputs (such as a 25 LED display and buzzer).

MicroPython

A lightweight, specialized version of the Python programming language designed specifically for programming the micro:bit.

display.read_light_level()

The MicroPython command used to detect light levels through the micro:bit's LED screen, outputting an integer value ranging from $0$ to $255$.

Expected Outcome

The anticipated result predicted and recorded in a test plan before running a program to confirm whether the code executes correctly.

Debugging

The process of testing a program to identify errors and fixing them so the program operates as intended.

Boolean Operators

Logical operators (such as AND, OR, and NOT) used to combine or modify conditions to create more complex decision logic.

ASCII

Standing for American Standard Code for Information Interchange, a standard character encoding table containing letters, numbers, and symbols represented as binary codes.

Radio Network (micro:bit)

A wireless communication network formed between two or more micro:bits configured to share data across the same radio channel or group.