Module 5 Unit 2 - Intro to Python Programming

Unit Learning Objectives

By the end of this unit, you will be able to

• Use variables in Python

• Perform mathematical operations in Python

• Simplify programming through the use of loops

• Create conditions using if/else statements in Python

Basics of Programming

In order to learn about programming in a Jupyter Notebook, we think it best for you to do all of this directly in a Jupyter notebook. In this notebook, you will learn about the following basics of programming:

Variables

Variables are one way to name data. Programs then use that information again throughout the program. Unlike other programming languages, Python has no command for declaring a variable. The first time you enter a variable, python recognizes it as such. A variable is created the moment you first assign a value to it.

Mathematical Operations

In Module 3, we learned about LaTeX, which allowed you to format a math equation, but did not calculate or compute the math equation. LaTeX only helped with displaying the equation. In Code cells, python can be programmed to compute mathematical operations.

Loops

A loop in programming is a set of instructions that you can make repeat until a certain requirement is met. Recall how loops were used in Module 2 in the knitting example to simplify the instructions.

If/else Statements

These are conditional statements used in programming. IF is used when you want to write a statement or step to evaluate if a condition has been met. ELSE is used to indicate what happens when the condition is not met.

Recall how IF/ELSE statements were addressed in Module 2

When following directions:

• IF you are facing south:

  • turn around until you face north and then start walking

• ELSE

  • Start walking

External Activity: Python Exercises

Work through this Jupyter Notebook for an Introduction to Python programming. Take Python for a test drive as we go through some of the basics. Remember to “Run” your cells.

• Link to Python Exercise Part 1

Want to check your work? Open this Python notebook and compare to the one you were working on.

• Link to Python Solution Part 1