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- Greenfoot Guide #7 | Extension Ideas | CSNewbs
Consider multiple extensions to increase the complexity of your Greenfoot game. Part 7 of the Greenfoot Tutorial for the Eduqas / WJEC GCSE 2016 specification. 7. Extension Ideas Greenfoot Tutorial This concludes the tutorial for a simple Greenfoot game! Try a combination of the suggestions below to add complexity to your game: 1. Make a New Class for 'Bad' Collectibles Create a new subclass in the Actor classes section for a new collectible that will lower the score if picked up. Add code to your main character to remove the collectible when they touch . Add code to decrease the counter by 1 at the same time. 2. Make the Collectibles Move Randomly Copy the code from your enemy class that makes it move randomly and bounce on edge , and paste this into your collectible class . This makes it harder to catch the collectables, especially if there are 'bad' objects to avoid. 3. Stop the Game Go to the code of your enemy and add the line underlined in red within your removal code. This will stop the game if your main character is eaten. 4. Make the Game Multiplayer Create a new subclass in the Actor classes section for a new main character that will be controlled by a second player . Add code to your new character to move it right, down, left and up . Choose different keys for each direction , such as the WASD keys or IJKL keys. If the second player touches a collectible , add code to decrease the score . Multiplayer Rules: Player 1 wins if the final score is above 0 . Player 2 wins if the final score is negative . It is a draw if it finishes on 0 . < Part 6 - The Counter
- 2.3 - Units - OCR GCSE (J277 Spec) | CSNewbs
Learn about different data units of storage from bit up to petabyte, as well as data capacity calculations. Based on the J277 OCR GCSE Computer Science specification (first taught from 2020 onwards). 2.3: Data Units Exam Board: OCR Specification: J277 Watch on YouTube : Units of Data Storage Capacity Requirements All computer systems communicate , process and store data using binary . Binary is a number system consisting entirely of 0s and 1s . Why do computers use binary? Computer systems consist of billions of tiny transistors which are switches that only have two values - on (1 ) or off (0 ). Therefore all data must be represented and processed in this way. Everything that a computer needs to process must be converted into a binary format including text , images , videos and audio . 0010 1011 0101 0101 0110 0111 0101 0001 0101 0101 0101 0100 1010 1010 1010 1010 1111 1110 0010 1001 0100 1001 0010 0111 0111 0101 0011 1010 1000 0101 0110 0111 0000 1010 1010 0011 1101 1001 0010 1101 0010 0100 1001 0011 1010 1001 0101 0101 0010 0101 0111 0101 0101 1000 1011 0111 Units of Data Storage 0 / 1 All data in a computer system is made up of bits . A single bit is a 0 or a 1 . 4 bits (such as 0101 or 1101) is called a nibble . 1,000 bytes is called a kilobyte . A kilobyte can store a short email . A 8 bits is called a byte . A byte can store a single character . 1,000 kilobytes is called a megabyte . A megabyte can store about a minute of music . 1,000 megabytes is called a gigabyte . A gigabyte can store about 500 photos . 1,000 terabytes is called a petabyte . A petabyte can store about 1.5 million CDs . 1,000 gigabytes is called a terabyte . A terabyte can store about 500 hours of films . Calculating Data Capacity Requirements It is important to be able to calculate the required storage capacity for a given set of data . Example: A local DJ has a USB memory stick with a capacity of 32GB . There is currently only 9GB of space remaining . Each song is 6MB . How many songs can be stored on the remaining space of the USB stick? Solution: Because each song is recorded in megabytes but the USB stick capacity is measured in gigabytes , the values must be converted into the same storage unit . 9GB x 1000 = 9000MB 9000MB ÷ 6MB = 1,500 songs Q uesto's Q uestions 2.3 - Data Units: 1. Explain why computer systems use binary to represent data. [ 2 ] 2. Put the following data storage units in order from smallest to largest : a . kilobyte - gigabyte - byte - megabyte - nibble - bit [3 ] b. gigabyte - petabyte - kilobyte - byte - terabyte - megabyte [ 3 ] 3. A hard drive contains 25GB of remaining available storage space. Tim is an animator backing up video files. Each file is 200MB . How many files can he fit on the hard drive? [ 2 ] 4. Samantha is a musician. She has compressed each song to 900KB . Her USB memory stick contains 1.2GB of free storage. How many songs can she fit on the USB stick? [ 2 ] 5. A CD has a capacity of 650MB . How many 0.2GB audio files can be stored on the CD? [ 2 ] 0101 2.2 - Secondary Storage Theory Topics 2.4a - Number Systems
- HTML Guide 5 - Images | CSNewbs
Learn how to embed images into your HTML web page using the img tag. Learn how to resize an image to your desired width and height. 5. Images HTML Guide Watch on YouTube: Images can be added to your web page to make it more visual. The guide below shows you how to find a picture online, download it and place it in your web page. Find & Save the Image Firstly you can perform a Google Image search to find a picture that you like. As an ethical Computer Scientist, you should be searching for copyright free images. Click on Tools and then Usage Rights to change it to 'Labeled for reuse'. Choose an appropriate image and download it to the same folder as your html file. Save the image in the same folder as where your HTML file is saved . If you don't do this, your image won't work . If you are using a school computer and the image automatically downloads , without giving you the option to rename it and save it, click on 'Show in folder' and move it to the folder where your HTML file is . Make sure that the image is saved in the exact same folder as your HTML file and that is has a suitable name . Create the Image Tag The tag for images does not have an end tag - it is all written within one set of angle brackets. src stands for source . You must type the image exactly as it is saved , including the file type (e.g. .jpg or .png). Don't forget the speech marks either. Create the img tag, using the exact name of the image you downloaded. Change the Image Size You can directly state the width and height of the image by defining the style within the image tag. If your image is too large or too small, change the size of it yourself. Next it is time to organise the web page further so it looks more like a professional site. 4. Hyperlinks HTML Guide 6. Organisation
- OCR CTech IT | Unit 1 | 2.1 - Software Types | CSNewbs
Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of different types of software including open-source, closed-source, off-the-shelf and bespoke. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification. 2.1: Software Types Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 1 Software refers to the programs and applications that run on a computer system. Open Source Software Source code is the software code written by programmers . If the software is open source it means that users can view and modify the code . Linux, Python and Firefox are examples of open source software. Benefits Drawbacks Because the source code is available to edit , it can be customised to the organisation's needs . Often shared in the public domain so users can work together to modify, debug and improve a product. Unwanted features can be removed to make the software run faster . There are security risks - some editors may add malicious code to the program. Open source software is often low in price and sometimes free. It may be difficult to receive support as development is often distributed between people in different locations. The code may be prone to errors as it may not have been tested fully. It requires technical skills to be able to adapt source code efficiently and to maintain the code . Closed Source Software If the software is closed source it means the code is restricted for users to view or modify . You buy the right to use the software but you don't actually own it. Microsoft Office, Fortnite and Spotify are examples of closed source software. Closed source software is also known as proprietary software because it is another company's property and protected by law. Benefits Drawbacks The code is well tested and has been professionally developed. Updates will generally be secure . Users must rely on the company to provide updates and fix issues. This might be infrequent or stop completely. The company can be held to account if it does not perform as listed in the terms and conditions upon purchase. Often not free (see Freeware below for free closed source software). Most developers will provide some form of help/support . Users cannot modify, debug or improve the code for their own benefit. Off-the-Shelf Software This is any software made for general use , with features that can be used in different ways and for different purposes . Examples include office software (e.g. Microsoft Office), video games (e.g. Minecraft) and image editors (e.g. Adobe PhotoShop). Back before internet downloads, people had to actually go to shops and buy software off the shelf and install it at home, hence the name. Benefits Drawbacks Should have been tested thoroughly so users can be confident that features will work as expected . Secure updates will be regular. It can be expensive to purchase some software , especially for a single user rather than a business. Some software, such as anti-virus protection, requires yearly licenses . It can be cheaper to purchase than bespoke software as it is not customised for a specific user or organisation. The software may contain additional features that the user / organisation doesn’t need which can reduce the performance of the system. The end users might be familiar with the software and trust the company (e.g. Microsoft Word). Bespoke Software This is any software that has been custom made for a specific organisation or user. For example, programmers might be hired by a company to create software for a specific task. Hospitals and schools use bespoke software to track and manage patients / students. It can be expensive to commission bespoke software as programmers and user interface designers need to be hired and there could be issues with rights to any created software. Benefits Drawbacks The software is built to the company's requirements , it is unique to their needs. Unwanted features can be removed to make the software run faster . Bespoke software is expensive to develop because it is tailor-made for the company. Staff may require training on using the system because it is unique . The look of the software (e.g. design & layout ) can be customised to fit the company's image. Because it has been custom-made, the original programmers may be needed to maintain the software and fix errors . Shareware This software allows the user to trial the program for a limited time before forcing them to buy the product or stop using it. For example, WinRAR is utility software that asks the user to buy the full version after 40 days. This allows the user to get a taste of what the software offers before choosing whether to buy it fully or not . Freeware This is software that is freely available to download and use . These are usually closed-source software that earn money through adverts or additional purchases. Rights to the software remain with the author despite the free access. App developers may release their app as freeware to allow users to try the software and then encourage them to purchase a full version with more features. Unlike shareware, the user should be able to keep using the product for free indefinitely, though their version may have features restricted or adverts enabled. Examples of freeware software include iTunes , Clash of Clans and Adobe Acrobat Reader (for PDFs). Embedded Software An embedded system is when a smaller computer system is installed within a larger device , such as a washing machine, traffic light or car. Embedded systems have a dedicated purpose and often run in real-time . Because of the small size, the embedded software will usually have memory and storage restrictions . Q uesto's Q uestions 2.1 - Software Types: 1. Describe the 7 types of software , listing the advantages and disadvantages of each. a. Open Source b. Closed Source c. Off-the-Shelf d. Bespoke e. Shareware f. Freeware g. Embedded [6 each ] 1.8 & 1.9 - Number Systems Topic List 2.2 - Applications Software
- Expansion Cards | Key Stage 3 | CSNewbs
Learn about two important expansion cards that can be connected to the motherboard - graphics cards and sound cards - and how they work. Expansion Cards PCI slots What are expansion cards? Expansion cards are additional components that you plug into the motherboard’s expansion slots to add or enhance features . The slots are called PCI (on older computers ) or PCIe (on newer models ). Common types are graphics cards (video ), sound cards (audio ), network cards (internet ) and capture cards (streaming ). Graphics Card A graphics card processes images , videos and 3D graphics so they look smooth and realistic . It is used for gaming , video editing , 3D modelling and Virtual Reality (VR ). It has its own processor - the Graphics Processing Unit (GPU ) - and dedicated memory (VRAM ), so it doesn’t overload the CPU or RAM . Modern graphics cards can also handle tasks like artificial intelligence (AI ) and bitcoin mining . Graphics cards usually have a cooling system, like a fan , so it doesn't overheat. The graphics processing unit ( GPU ) is a chip that renders images and video. The graphics card has ports such as HDMI or DisplayPort to connect monitors or TVs. The PCIe connector allows the graphics card to slot onto the motherboard. Sound Card The DAC ( Digital-to-Analogue Converter ) converts digital data (1s and 0s) from the computer into analogue sound waves for speakers/headphones. The ADC ( Analogue-to-Digital Converter ) converts analogue input (like voice from a microphone) into digital data the computer understands. Jacks are small round sockets where you plug in audio devices like headphones, microphones, or speakers. The PCIe connector allows the sound card to slot onto the motherboard. A sound card improves the quality of audio input/output compared to the motherboard’s built-in sound . They are not needed by most users , because of the motherboard's built-in sound , but they are used by music production , gaming or professional audio work . It can support surround sound systems , high-quality microphones , and musical instruments using jacks (audio ports ). Integrated cards Built directly into the motherboard . Cheaper , uses less power and is good enough for basic tasks (e.g. web browsing , watching videos and office work ). Shares the computer’s RAM and processor (CPU ) instead of having its own . An example is integrated graphics on a laptop for browsing and schoolwork . Dedicated cards These are separate expansion cards (e.g. graphics card or sound card ) to connect to the motherboard 's PCIe slots . They usually have their own processor and memory (e.g. GPU & VRAM for graphics ). Much more powerful , ideal for gaming , video editing , 3D design or professional audio . Uses more power and costs more . KS3 Home
- 3.1a - Network Types & Performance - OCR GCSE (J277 Spec) | CSNewbs
Learn about the factors that affect the performance of networks, as well as different types of network types such as LAN and WAN. Based on the J277 OCR GCSE Computer Science specification (first taught from 2020 onwards). 3.1a: Network Types & Performance Exam Board: OCR Specification: J277 Watch on YouTube : LAN & WAN Network Performance Client-Server Network Peer-to-Peer Network Star Topology Mesh Topology What is a network? A network is more than one computer system connected together allowing for communication and sharing of resources . Network Types Networks can be split into different types , usually categorised by their geographical distance apart and the area that they serve. Local Area Network Wide Area Network Client-Server Network Clients make requests to a server , the server manages that request and responds. For example, if the user (client) makes a request to access www.bbc.co.uk to a web server. Large services like Amazon and Google will need very powerful servers to handle millions of requests a second. The client is completely dependent on the server to provide and manage the information. The server controls network security , backups and can be upgraded to manage higher demand. Advantages: The network can be controlled centrally from the server to easily backup data and update software . Hardware, software and resources can be shared across the network, such as printers, applications and data files . The network allows for improved scalability , meaning more clients can be easily added to the central server . Disadvantages: Large amounts of traffic congestion will cause the network to slow down . If a fault occurs with the server then the whole network will fail . IT technicians may be required to manage and maintain the network . Malware , such as viruses, can spread quickly across the network. Peer-to-Peer Network For peer-to-peer networks , data is shared directly between systems without requiring a central server . Each computer is equally responsible for providing data. Peer to peer is optimal for sharing files that can then be downloaded. Disadvantages: Without a dedicated server there is no central device to manage security or backups . Backups must be performed on each individual system. Computer performance will decrease with more devices connected to the network, especially if other machines are slow. Advantages: This is a simpler network than client-server to set up as no server is required . Clients are not dependent on a server . Perfect for quickly sharing files between systems , such as downloading media files. A local area network (LAN ) has computer systems situated geographically close together , usually within the same building or small site , like a school or office . The network infrastructure of a LAN (such as servers and routers) is usually owned and managed by the network owner . A wide area network (WAN ) has computer systems situated geographically distant to each other, possibly across a country or even across the world . WANs often use third party communication channels , such as connections by internet services providers like BT or Virgin Media. Data Packets When sending data across a network, files are broken down into smaller parts called data packets . Whole files are too large to transfer as one unit so data packets allow data to be transferred across a network quickly . Each packet of data is redirected by routers across networks until it arrives at its destination. Data packets may split up and use alternative routes to reach the destination address. When all the packets have arrived at the destination address the data is reassembled back into the original file. What is a network topology? Network topology refers to layout of computer systems on a local network . Devices in a network topology diagram are often called 'nodes' . Two types of typology are star and mesh . Star Topology Each computer system is connected to a central device , usually a hub or switch . How it works: Each computer system is connected to the central hub or switch and transfers its data packets there. The hub or switch looks at the destination address and transfers the packets directly to the intended computer. Advantages: A star topology has improved security because data packets are sent directly to and from the hub / switch in the centre and not necessarily all devices like in a bus or ring topology. New systems can be attached directly to the central system so the network doesn't need to be shut down . System failures of attached computers won't usually cause complete network failure. Transfer speeds are generally fast in a star topology as there are minimal network collisions . Disadvantages: Extra hardware (the hub or switch) is required to be purchased, installed and maintained. If the central system (the hub or switch) fails then the whole network will be unusable until the error is fixed. Mesh Topology In a full mesh network, each computer system is connected to every other computer system . There is also a partial mesh network where only some nodes (e.g. a printer) are connected to every other node. How it works: Data packets are transferred to the destination address along the quickest path , travelling from node to node. If a pathway is broken , there are many alternative paths that the packets can take. Advantages: If one cable or system fails then data packets can take an alternative route and still reach the destination address. Because of the large possible number of systems and connections, a mesh topology can usually withstand large amounts of data traffic . New systems can be added to the network without disrupting the entire topology . Disadvantages: Because of the possibly large amount of cables required (especially in a full mesh topology) this network layout can be expensive to install and maintain . Redundant cabling should be avoided - this is when cables are connected between systems that won't ever need to communicate . Performance There are several different factors that can affect the performance ( speed ) of a network, such as: The bandwidth available * Interference (e.g. thick walls) Number of users at the same time Distance to travel / signal strength Number of data collisions Amount of data to transfer * Bandwidth is the maximum amount of data that can be sent across a network at once . Q uesto's Q uestions 3.1a - Network Types & Performance: 1a. Describe the difference between a LAN and WAN . [2 ] 1b. Give an example of how a LAN and a WAN could each be used . [ 2 ] 2 a. Describe how peer-to-peer networks and client-server networks function. 2b. Give one use for both types of network. 3. Draw and label diagrams of client-server , peer-to-peer , star and mesh networks. [8 ] 4. An office currently uses a star topology but is considering changing to a mesh topology . Describe two advantages and two disadvantages of both topologies. [ 8 ] 5. State five factors that could affect the performance of a network . [5 ] 2.5 - Compression 3.1b - Network Hardware & Internet Theory Topics
- 2.2 - Secondary Storage - OCR GCSE (J277 Spec) | CSNewbs
Learn about the three main types of secondary storage - magnetic, optical and solid-state. Also, learn about the characteristics of secondary storage media including reliability and durability. Based on the J277 OCR GCSE Computer Science specification (first taught from 2020 onwards). 2.2: Secondary Storage Exam Board: OCR Specification: J277 Watch on YouTube : Secondary Storage Six Characteristics Magnetic Storage Optical Storage Solid State Storage Secondary storage is non-volatile storage used to save and store data that can be accessed repeatedly. Secondary storage is not directly embedded on the motherboard (and possibly even external ) and therefore further away from the CPU so it is slower to access then primary storage . Storage Characteristics you should know: CAPACITY : The maximum amount of data that can be stored on the device. DURABILITY : The strength of the device, to last without breaking . PORTABILITY : How easy it is to carry the device around . ACCESS SPEED : How quickly data on the device can be read or edited . COST : The average price it costs to purchase the storage device. RELIABILITY : The likelihood of the device continuing to perform well over time . Magnetic Storage A magnetic hard disk drive (HDD ) is the most common form of secondary storage within desktop computers. A read/write head moves nanometres above the disk platter and uses the magnetic field of the platter to read or edit data. An obsolete (no longer used) type of magnetic storage is a floppy disk but these have been replaced by solid state devices such as USB sticks which are much faster and have a much higher capacity. Another type of magnetic storage that is still used is magnetic tape . Magnetic tape has a high storage capacity but data has to be accessed in order (serial access ) so it is generally only used by companies to back up or archive large amounts of data . Magnetic Storage Characteristics (Hard Disk Drive): ✓ - Large CAPACITY and cheaper COST per gigabyte than solid state . ✓ - Modern external HDDs are small and well protected so they are DURABLE and PORTABLE , however because of the moving parts, they should not be moved when powered on because it can damage the device. X - Slower ACCESS SPEED than solid state but faster than optical storage . Optical Storage Optical storage uses a laser to project beams of light onto a spinning disc, allowing it to read data from a CD , DVD or Blu-Ray . This makes optical storage the slowest of the four types of secondary storage. Disc drives are traditionally internal but external disc drives can be bought for devices like laptops. Magnetic Disks are spelled with a k and Optical Discs have a c. Optical Storage Characteristics: X - Low CAPACITY : 700 MB (CD ), 4.7 GB (DVD ), 25 GB (Blu-ray ). X - Not DURABLE because discs are very fragile and can break or scratch easily. ✓ - Discs are thin and very PORTABLE . Also very cheap to buy in bulk. X - Optical discs have the Slowest ACCESS SPEED . Solid State Storage There are no moving parts in solid state storage. SSD s (Solid State Drives ) are replacing magnetic HDDs (Hard DIsk Drives) in modern computers and video game consoles because they are generally quieter , faster and use less power . A USB flash drive ( USB stick ) is another type of solid state storage that is used to transport files easily because of its small size. Memory cards , like the SD card in a digital camera or a Micro SD card in a smartphone , are another example of solid state storage. Solid State Characteristics: X - More expensive COST per gigabyte than magnetic . ✓ - Usually DURABLE but cheap USB sticks can snap or break . ✓ - The small size of USB sticks and memory cards mean they are very PORTABLE and can fit easily in a bag or pocket. ✓ - Solid State storage have a high CAPACITY and the fastest ACCESS SPEED because they contain no moving parts . Q uesto's Q uestions 2.2 - Secondary Storage: 1. Rank magnetic , optical and solid-state storage in terms of capacity , durability , portability , speed and cost . For example, magnetic has the highest capacity , then solid-state, then optical. This could be completed in a table . [15 ] 2. Justify which secondary storage should be used in each scenario and why it is the most appropriate: a. Sending videos and pictures to family in Australia through the post . [ 2 ] b. Storing a presentation to take into school . [ 2 ] c. Storing project files with other members of a group to work on together . [ 2 ] d. Backing up an old computer with thousands of files to a storage device. [ 2 ] 2.1 - Primary Storage Theory Topics 2.3 - Data Units
- Python | 1a - Printing | CSNewbs
Learn how to create print statements in Python. Try practice tasks and learn through text and images. Perfect for students learning GCSE Computer Science in UK schools. top Python 1a - Printing Printing in Python To output a message onto the screen, use the print command. Then place your message within brackets and speech marks . For example: print ( "Welcome to Python!" ) When you run the program, the text will print to the Python console: Welcome to Python! Printing Task 1 (Full Name & To Your Left) On the first line, print your first name and surname. On the next line, write another print statement to print t he name of the person (or thing) to your left. Example solution: Elsie Parker pencil case Printing over Several Lines One way of writing across multiple lines is to write several print commands like this: print ( "Welcome to...." ) print ( "Computer Science " ) print ( "Newbies!!! " ) = Welcome to .... Computer Science Newbies!!! However, when we program, we always want to make our code the most efficient it can be by using as few lines as possible . Therefore you can write \n within a printed statement to move it to the next line. Make sure you use \ and not / otherwise it will print the slash and not make a new line! print ( "Welcome to....\n Computer Science\n Newbies!!! " ) = Welcome to .... Computer Science Newbies!!! Both pieces of code display the same thing, but the second one is more efficient because it only uses one line. Printing Task 2 (Name, Colour, Movie) Use \n to write your name, favourite colour and favourite movie in only one line of code. Example solution: Matthew yellow Interstellar ⬅ Setting Up Python 1b - Comments ➡
- OCR CTech IT | Unit 1 | 1.3 - Computer System Types | CSNewbs
Learn about six different types of computer system including embedded, mainframe and quantum. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification. 1.3 - Computer System Types Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 1 Different types of computer system are available to purchase and use, each with their own benefits , drawbacks and typical functions . Desktop A computer suitable for use at an ordinary desk. They are bulky and not so easy to move . Individual components (e.g. graphics card) can be upgraded over time . Desktops are versatile , they allow the user to carry out a range of activities , including document creation, data manipulation, game playing, design and communication facilities for personal or business purposes. Tablet / Laptop A small and portable type of computer. Many modern laptops can also fold back , effectively turning them into a tablet with a screen-based virtual keyboard . They can perform many of the functions of the traditional PC, but the screen size can be restrictive , especially if several documents need to be open at the same time. Because it can be transported through public spaces, loss or theft is more likely. Smartphone Embedded Systems Smartphones can be used to run a range of applications including email, social media, videos and music. However, they can negatively affect social interaction (e.g. by using them and ignoring people around you) and reduce spatial awareness when being used. Security is another issue as they can be easily lost or stolen . Security software for phones is not as secure as other computer systems so sensitive data should not be held on smartphones. An embedded system is when a smaller computer system is installed within a larger device , such as a washing machine, traffic light or car. Embedded systems have a dedicated purpose and often run in real-time . The internet of things (IoT) describes a global network of connected objects that were previously 'dumb', such as smart bulbs, smart plugs and thermostats. Mainframe Mainframes are huge and very powerful computers that are reliable . Mainframes are used to process large amounts of data and can be used to solve scientific and engineering problems that require complex calculations with large datasets (e.g. weather forecasting or scientific simulations). Mainframes are reliable and secure because they have large backup capabilities . Mainframes are very expensive and require teams of experts to oversee them, and so are used only by organisations that need to process very large amounts of data quickly, such as banks and airlines . Quantum These are still experimental and in development . They work with quantum bits ( qubits ), which, unlike binary, are not limited to just two states (0 or 1). Qubits represent atomic particles, which can be in several different states at the same time . A fully working quantum computer would potentially be able to process data and perform calculations millions of times faster than currently available computers. Q uesto's Q uestions 1.3 - Computer System Types: 1. For each type of computer system , make a list of benefits , drawbacks and possible uses . a. Desktop [6 ] b. Tablet / Laptop [6 ] c. Smartphone [6 ] d. Embedded System [6 ] e. Mainframe [6 ] f. Quantum Computer [6 ] 2. Suggest and justify which type of computer system is most suitable for the following scenarios: a. Updating a spreadsheet while on a train. [3 ] b. Forecasting the next week’s weather. [3 ] c. A PE teacher recording sports day race times. [3 ] d. Playing a new video game on maximum settings. [3 ] 1.2 - Computer Components Topic List 1.4 - Connectivity
- Python | 6b - While Loops | CSNewbs
Learn how to create and use while loops in Python. Try practice tasks and learn through text and images. Perfect for students learning GCSE Computer Science in UK schools. top Python 6B - While Loops Types of Loop The third construct of programming (after Sequence and Selection) is Iteration . If you iterate something, then you repeat it. There are two key loops to use in Python: for loops and while loops . A for loop is count controlled – e.g. “For 10 seconds I will jump up and down”. The loop will continue until the count (e.g. 10 seconds) has finished . A while loop is condition controlled – e.g. “While I am not out of breath, I will jump up and down.” The loop will continue as long as the condition remains true . Simple While Loops A while loop keeps repeating as long as the starting condition is true . If the condition of the while loop becomes false , the loop ends . In this example, the number variable is increased by 1 inside of the loop until it is no longer less than or equal to 10 . number = 1 while number <= 10: print (number) number = number + 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Comparison Operators == equal to != not equal to < less than <= less than or equal to > greater than >= greater than or equal to It is important to give the variable a value before you start the while loop . I have assigned number as 1. The last line increases the number by 1 otherwise the number would stay at 1 and the loop would repeat forever . While Loops Task 1 (Countdown from 100 ) Example solution (shortened): Create a simple while loop that starts at 100 and prints each number down to 1 . Think about the comparison operator you will need to check you have reached 1. 100 99 98 ... ... 3 2 1 Inputs Inside While Loops If you want the user to keep entering an input until they give a certain answer then you need to put the input inside the while loop : age = 0 while age < 18: print ( "Only adults allowed to the casino." ) age = int ( input ( "Enter your age: " )) print ( "Welcome and enjoy your visit." ) Only adults allowed to the casino. Enter your age: 14 Only adults allowed to the casino. Enter your age: 18 Welcome and enjoy your visit. month = " " while month != "July" : month = input ( "Guess the month I'm thinking of: " ) print ( "Correct! It was July!" ) Guess the month I'm thinking of: August Guess the month I'm thinking of: June Guess the month I'm thinking of: July Correct! It was July! Notice that the variable in the condition (age or month in these examples) has to be given a value first before it can be used in a while condition. The program will crash if the variable is not declared and assigned a value - for example, the age cannot be checked to see if it less than 18 if there is no age variable! For string variables like month in the example above then a blank default value like " " can be used. For integer variables often 0 will be used. While Loops Task 2 (Guess the Colour ) Example solution: Use a variable named colour and a while loop that allows the user to keep entering colours until a specific one (your choice) has been input. Guess the colour: blue Guess the colour: purple Guess the colour: yellow Correct! It was yellow! While Loops Task 3 (Integer Trivia ) Use a while loop to ask a question that has an integer (whole number) as an answer , such as "How many James Bond films did Daniel Craig appear in?" or "In which year did Wigan Athletic win the FA Cup?". Remember that integers do not use speech marks , e.g. year = 0 Example solution: Which year was the first Iron Man movie? 2010 Which year was the first Iron Man movie? 2009 Which year was the first Iron Man movie? 2008 Correct! It was 2008! While True Loops A while True loop will repeat indefinitely , only stopping when the break command is used to end the loop . While True loops are often preferred because you do not need to set default values for any variables before the loop begins. while True : password = input ( "Enter the password: " ) if password == "icecream21" : print ( "Correct Password!" ) break Enter the password: vanilla32 Enter the password: chocolate83 Enter the password: strawberry100 Enter the password: icecream21 Correct Password! The program below has been adapted to record the number of attempts made . The value is increased by 1 each time the loop restarts. guesses = 0 while True : guesses = guesses + 1 password = input ( "Enter the password: " ) if password == "goat7" : print ( "Correct Password! It took" ,guesses, "attempts!" ) break else : print ( "Incorrect. Try again!" ) Enter the password: sheep3 Incorrect. Try again! Enter the password: cow4 Incorrect. Try again! Enter the password: horse5 Incorrect. Try again! Enter the password: goat7 Correct Password! It took 4 attempts! The continue command will move to the next iteration (it can be considered as starting the loop again ). The program below allows numbers to be entered and keeps track of a running total. Entering 1 inputs a number, 2 displays the total and 3 stops the program. total = 0 while True : choice = input ( "\nType 1 to enter, 2 for a total and 3 to stop: " ) if choice == "1" : number = int ( input ( "Enter a number: " )) total = total + number continue elif choice == "2" : print ( "The total is" , total) continue elif choice == "3" : break print ( "\nProgram finished." ) Type 1 to enter, 2 for the total and 3 to stop: 1 Enter a number: 40 Type 1 to enter, 2 for the total and 3 to stop: 1 Enter a number: 35 Type 1 to enter, 2 for the total and 3 to stop: 2 The total is 75 Type 1 to enter, 2 for the total and 3 to stop: 3 Program finished. While Loops Task 4 (Guess the Planet ) Example solution: Use a while True loop to keep asking a user to input a planet . Keep track of the number of guesses that have been made and output the total when they input the correct planet. Use the second example in the 'While True Loops ' section above to help you. Enter a planet: Mars Incorrect guess, try again! Enter a planet: Mercury Incorrect guess, try again! Enter a planet: Neptune Correct it was Neptune! While Loops Task 5 (Up to 100 ) Create a while True loop that asks the user to enter a number . Add the number to a total variable and print it. When the total reaches 100 or more , stop the program. Don't forget to set the total variable to 0 at the start and to add the number entered by the user to the total. Example solution: Enter a number: 34 The current total is: 34 Enter a number: 29 The current total is: 63 Enter a number: 18 The current total is: 81 Enter a number: 22 The current total is: 103 Over 100! ⬅ 6a - F or Loops Section 6 Practice Tasks ➡
- Key Stage 3 Python | Variables | CSNewbs
The first part of a quick guide to the basics of Python aimed at Key Stage 3 students. Learn about comments and printing. Python - #2 - Variables 1. Number Variables A variable is a value that can change . Imagine there are 20 biscuits in a jar. Then I eat one. Now there are only 19. You must state what the value of a variable is before it is used . e.g. biscuits = 20 Task 1 - Create a new Python program and save the file as 2-Variables.py Create a variable called sweets and give it the value 15. Then print sweets. Variable names cannot have spaces . You can use underscores if you want, e.g. num_of_eggs When you are printing variables, you don't put them in speech marks . Otherwise, it will print the variable name and not the value. 2. String Variables A string is a programming term for a collection of characters . When you are giving a variable a string value, it must be written in speech marks . Remember when you print the variable however, it is never printed in speech marks . Task 2 - Create a variable called name and give it the value of your name. Then print the name variable. 3. Using Variables in a Sentence When we have printed the variables so far, they have not been very informative! You can print variables together with sentences so that they mean more. Use a comma ( , ) between variables and sentences . Task 3 - Use the pictures to help you add commas and sentences to your program to be more informative. 4. Using Variables Together You can print more than one variable together in the same sentence by separating them with sentences and commas . If this doesn't work, double-check your program has a comma between each variable and sentence . Task 4 - Type a new print line that uses both your name and your sweets variables together. Use the image to help you. Challenge Programs Use everything that you have learned on this page to help you create these programs... Challenge Task 1 - Funny Animals Create a new Python program. Save it as ' 2-FunnyAnimals.py ' Add a comment at the top with your name and the date. Create a variable for a colour and give it a value (e.g. "blue") Create a variable for an animal and give it a value (e.g. "horse") Print a funny sentence that uses both variables. BONUS : Try to use only one print line. BONUS : Try to use only three lines in total . Remember: Break up variables in a print line by using commas. When you run it, it could look something like this: Challenge Task 2 - Funny Sentence Create a new Python program. Save is as ' 2-FunnySentence.py ' Add a comment at the top with your name and the date. Write a program that uses three variables, an adjective (descriptive word), a number and an animal. Print a funny response using all variables. BONUS : Try to use only one print line. BONUS : Try to use only four lines in total . Remember: Break up variables in a print line by using commas. When you run it, it could look something like this: <<< #1 The Basics #3 Inputs >>>
- 3.1 - Data vs Information | Unit 2 | OCR Cambridge Technicals | CSNewbs
Learn about the technical difference between data and information, with examples. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification for Unit 2 (Global Information). 3.1 - Data vs. Information Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 2 The terms 'data ' and 'information ' are often used interchangeably but they do not mean the same thing . The term 'data ' refers to unprocessed facts or statistics that have no context . For example, 53% is data - it is a statistic that has no context. The term 'information ' refers to data that has been processed , organised and structured into context . For example, 53% of pumpkin stock was sold in 2019 is information - it is data that has been given context (meaning). Data Processing Information Q uesto's Q uestions 3.1 - Data vs. Information: 1. Describe , using examples , the difference between data and information . [4 ] 2.4 - Information Management 3.2 & 3.3 - Information Categories Topic List









