Gaming Tech 1 Semester Vocab

acceleration

A change in velocity; typically refers to an increase in velocity.

algorithm

A complete, well-defined sequence of steps for completing a task or solving a problem.

argument

Information sent to a function that it needs to perform its action.

array

A collection of variables that are given the same name and are individually referenced by an index.

binary operator

An operator that works on two values.

Boolean

As an adjective, it relates to George Boole; as a noun, it refers to a Boolean variable or expression which has two possible values.

bug

An error in a program's code.

canvas

The space in the MakeCode Arcade image editor where an image is drawn.

canvas zoom controls

Controls used to zoom in and out on the canvas.

computer

An electronic machine that can solve problems, process data, store data, and perform calculations.

computer program

A sequence of instructions written in a language that a computer can understand.

computer science

The study of the principles and use of computers.

condition

An expression which compares two things.

constant

A memory location whose contents do not change throughout the lifetime of the program.

control variable

A variable that determines whether an iteration structure repeats its code or exits.

debug

A process of locating and removing bugs from computer programs.

debugging

The process of fixing errors or abnormalities in programs.

definite loop

An iteration structure where the number of iterations is known before the code is executed.

directional pad

Also known as the d-pad, it is used by the player to move in the four cardinal directions.

double jump

In a platform game, the act of jumping a second time while already in the air to reach elevated areas.

event

An interaction between the user and the program or between two elements of the program.

event handler

A set of code that responds to an event.

extension

A pre-made package added to a MakeCode project to enhance functionality.

flag

A Boolean value stored in a variable to indicate a status.

function

A reusable piece of code that performs a specific action.

function definition

The name, parameter names, parameter types, and return type of a function.

ground tile

A tile in a tilemap on which the player can walk.

hero sprite

The representation of the player, usually controlled by the controller buttons.

implementation

Code that generates a desired action based on a function.

increment

To increase the value of a variable by a certain amount.

indefinite loop

An iteration structure where the number of iterations is not known before execution.

index

A non-negative integer that references an individual variable in an array.

infinite loop

An iteration structure that has no way of exiting through control variables.

input

Information provided by the user.

iteration

A structure that repeats a set of code, often referred to as a loop.

millisecond

1/1000 of a second, abbreviated as ms.

operation

Manipulation of one or more values.

operator

The visual representation of an operation, like the plus sign (+) for addition.

parameter

A piece of information that a function can use to perform its action.

placeholder

A special tile in a tilemap marking where a sprite could appear.

playground

A project in programming specifically built for experimentation and testing skills.

programming language

A vocabulary and set of rules for instructing a computer to perform tasks.

refactor

To change code so that it creates the same result in a different, usually simpler way.

sequential search

Searching through a collection in order, stopping when the item is found.

simulator

Represents the hardware device being programmed in the MakeCode project editor.

stepping

Executing code one line or block at a time.

string

A value that is not treated as a number, referred to as a text value in MakeCode.

text value

Term used in MakeCode for what is generally called a string.

tile

A small, regularly shaped image used in a tilemap to present an element in a game.

tilemap

A matrix of tiles.

variable

A named memory location that can change its value throughout the program.

velocity

The rate of change in the position of an object, synonymous with speed.

wall

Selected tiles in a tilemap through which sprites cannot pass.