Python 1

Day 1: Introduction and Basics

Session Outline

1. Overview of Computer Science and Programming

2. Introduction to CS Kickstart and TAs

3. Real-World Examples of Computer Science Applications

4. Understanding Data Types

5. Exploring Arithmetic and Comparison Operators

6. Expressions and Practice Problems

7. Introduction to Variables

8. Conditional Statements and Real-World Examples

9. Python Practice with Example Problems

Detailed Agenda:

1. Overview of Computer Science and Programming:

   • Provide a clear definition of computer science and its relevance in various fields.

   • Discuss the importance of programming as a fundamental skill in computer science.

   • Emphasize the problem-solving aspect of programming and its applications in real-world scenarios.

2. Introduction to CS Kickstart and TAs:

   • Introduce the CS Kickstart program and the role of TAs and helpers.

   • Allow each TA to briefly introduce themselves and share their background in computer science.

   • Explain the overarching goal of CS Kickstart, which is to provide a better understanding of computer science and programming concepts.

   • Describe the format of labs, emphasizing their focus on teaching basic programming concepts.

   • Encourage students to actively engage with TAs, helpers, and classmates by asking questions and sharing knowledge.

3. Real-World Examples of Computer Science Applications:

   • Explore various sub-areas of computer science, such as health informatics, biotech, astronomy, and cybersecurity.

   • Provide everyday examples that demonstrate the impact of computer science, such as self-driving cars, facial recognition, and GPS navigation systems.

   • Explain the definition of programming, including programming languages, platforms, syntax, and the concept of whiteboard coding.

4. Understanding Data Types:

   • Introduce different data types, including integers, strings, booleans, and lists.

   • Provide clear explanations and examples for each data type to ensure understanding.

5. Exploring Arithmetic and Comparison Operators:

   • Explain and demonstrate the use of arithmetic operators, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, regular division, integer division, and modulus.

   • Discuss comparison operators, such as less than, less than or equal to, greater than, greater than or equal to, not equal to, and equal to.

   • Clarify the difference between the assignment operator (=) and the equality operator (==).

6. Expressions and Practice Problems:

   • Discuss expressions and how they are formed using data types and operators.

   • Provide practice problems involving arithmetic and comparison operators to reinforce understanding and problem-solving skills.

7. Introduction to Variables:

   • Explain the concept of variables and their role in storing and manipulating data.

   • Provide examples and analogies, such as containers or boxes, to illustrate how variables work.

8. Conditional Statements and Real-World Examples:

   • Introduce conditional statements and their structure, including conditions and bodies.

   • Use diagrams and real-world examples to help students grasp the concept of conditional statements.

   • Encourage students to think about logical conditions and the corresponding actions in different scenarios.

9. Python Practice with Example Problems:

   • Engage students in Python programming practice by solving example problems.

   • Examples may include checking if something satisfies certain conditions or generating output based on a random number.