Python

Python programming language

Python is an interpreted, object-oriented, high-level programming language with dynamic semantics. Its high-level built in data structures, combined with dynamic typing and dynamic binding, make it very attractive for Rapid Application Development, as well as for use as a scripting or glue language to connect existing components together. Python's simple, easy to learn syntax emphasizes readability and therefore reduces the cost of program maintenance. Python supports modules and packages, which encourages program modularity and code reuse. The Python interpreter and the extensive standard library are available in source or binary form without charge for all major platforms, and can be freely distributed.

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Python is our language of choice.

1. It is the CS introductory programming language in many universities
2. It has an especially clear syntax
3. We get to logical thinking over syntax issues much faster
4. The language is well-supported
5. Library management is a straight forward
6. The language is very powerful for solving complex problems

Basic ideas

These ideas follow our programming guide, linked above.

1. Understand how to output text strings
   1. How to read error messages in Python
2. Understand how to input strings and numbers into variables
   1. Variable scope in Python
3. Understand string manipulation functions
4. String manipulation functions
5. Understand how to use selection statements
6. How to use selection statements
7. Understand how to use arithmetic operations and random numbers
8. Understand counter controlled iterations
9. Understand condition controlled iterations
10. Understand subroutines, procedures and functions
11. Understand arrays and lists
12. Understand serial files
13. How to handle exceptions for validation
    1. Managing exceptions in Python
14. Understand dictionaries