3.
2 Programming
3.2.1 Data types
Understand the concept of a data type.
Understand and use the following appropriately:
● integer
● real
● Boolean
● character
● string
3.2.2 Programming concepts
Use, understand and know how the following statement types can be combined in programs:
● variable declaration
● constant declaration
● assignment
● iteration
● selection
● subroutine (procedure/function)
Use definite and indefinite iteration, including indefinite iteration with the condition(s) at the
start or the end of the iterative structure.
Use nested selection and nested iteration structures.
Use meaningful identifier names and know why it is important to use them.
3.2.3 Arithmetic operations in a programming language
Be familiar with and be able to use:
● addition
● subtraction
● multiplication
● real division
● integer division, including remainders
3.2.4 Relational operations in a programming language
Be familiar with and be able to use:
● equal to
● not equal to
● less than
● greater than
● less than or equal to
● greater than or equal to
3.2.5 Boolean operations in a programming language
Be familiar with and be able to use:
● NOT
● AND
● OR
3.2.6 Data structures
Understand the concept of data structures.
Use arrays (or equivalent) in the design of solutions to simple problems.
Use records (or equivalent) in the design of solutions to simple problems.
3.2.7 Input/output
Be able to obtain user input from the keyboard.
Be able to output data and information from a program to the computer display.
3.2.8 String handling operations in a programming language
Understand and be able to use:
● length
● position
● substring
● concatenation
● convert character to character code
● convert character code to character
● string conversion operations
3.2.9 Random number generation in a programming language
Be able to use random number generation.
3.2.10 Subroutines (procedures and functions)
Understand the concept of subroutines.
Explain the advantages of using subroutines in programs.
Describe the use of parameters to pass data within programs.
Use subroutines that return values to the calling routine.
Know that subroutines may declare their own variables, called local variables, and that local
variables usually:
● only exist while the subroutine is executing
● are only accessible within the subroutine.
Use local variables and explain why it is good practice to do so.
Describe the structured approach to programming.
Explain the advantages of the structured approach.
3.2.11 Robust and secure programming
Be able to write simple data validation routines.
Be able to write simple authentication routines.
Understand what is meant by testing in the context of algorithms and programs.
Be able to correct errors within algorithms and programs.
Understand what test data is and describe the following types of test data:
● normal (typical)
● boundary (extreme)
● erroneous data
Be able to justify the choice of test data.
Understand that there are different types of error:
● syntax error
● logic error.
Be able to identify and categorise errors within algorithms and programs.
