Introduction to Programming | Grade 8 ICT Lesson 4

Programming is a fascinating subject that helps you think logically, solve problems, and create innovative solutions. This blog post will guide Sri Lankan Grade 8 students through the basics of programming, including analyzing problems, using control structures, and creating programs with Scratch.

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What Is Programming?

Programming involves giving a computer a set of instructions to perform specific tasks. It is like teaching the computer step-by-step actions to solve problems or complete jobs, such as creating games, apps, or websites.

Popular programming tools for beginners, like Scratch, make it fun and easy to learn coding through visual blocks.

Analyzing Problems

Before writing a program, you must first understand the problem. Problem analysis involves:

1. Identifying the inputs required.
2. Determining the desired output.
3. Breaking down the steps to achieve the solution.

Example:
Problem: Calculate the total marks of three subjects.

• Inputs: Marks for Subject 1, Subject 2, and Subject 3.
• Output: Total marks.
• Steps: Add the marks of all three subjects.

Control Structures

Control structures define the flow of a program. Scratch makes this concept easy to understand.

1. Sequence

• Actions are performed one after the other in a fixed order.
• Example in Scratch:
  • Move 10 steps.
  • Turn 15 degrees.

2. Selection

• Decisions are made based on conditions.
• In Scratch, use if and if-else blocks for selection.
• Example:
  • If the score is greater than 50, display “You Pass.”

3. Repetition (To Be Covered Later)

• Repeat actions multiple times. This is used to create loops.

Providing Solutions to Day-to-Day Problems

Programming can solve real-world problems efficiently. Here are some examples:

• Automated Lights: Turning on lights when it gets dark.
• Alarm Clock: Alerting you at a set time.
• Weather App: Displaying weather updates in real time.

Developing Programs Using Sequence and Selection Control Structures

With Scratch, you can create programs to solve simple problems.

Example 1: Adding Two Numbers

1. Use the ask block to take two numbers as input.
2. Add the numbers using the operator block.
3. Display the result using the say block.

Example 2: Deciding Pass or Fail

1. Ask the user for their marks.
2. Use an if-else block to check if the marks are greater than 50.
3. Display “Pass” if true, otherwise “Fail.”

Scratch Logical and Comparison Blocks

Comparison Blocks

Comparison blocks in Scratch allow you to compare two values:

• Equal to (==)
• Greater than (>)
• Less than (<)

Logical Blocks

Logical blocks allow combining conditions:

• AND: Both conditions must be true.
• OR: At least one condition is true.
• NOT: Inverts the condition.

Example:
Use a logical AND block to check if a score is between 50 and 100.

Applications of Mobile and Smart Devices

Mobile and smart devices are equipped with programs to make life easier:

• Mobile Apps: Solve math problems, play games, or manage daily schedules.
• Smart Home Devices: Control appliances like lights, fans, and TVs.
• Health Tracking: Devices that monitor steps, heart rate, and sleep patterns.

Practice Activities

1. Analyze a Problem:
   Identify inputs and outputs for calculating the average of three numbers.
2. Create a Scratch Project:
   • Develop a program to check if a number is even or odd.
   • Use logical blocks to determine if a number is divisible by both 2 and 3.
3. Explore Control Structures:
   • Experiment with sequence and selection blocks in Scratch.

Summary

Programming empowers students to think logically and solve problems creatively. Tools like Scratch introduce important concepts such as control structures and problem analysis in an engaging way. With practice, you can create solutions to real-world problems and even explore advanced programming in the future.

FAQs

1. What are control structures in programming?
Control structures determine the flow of a program and include sequence, selection, and repetition.

2. How is Scratch useful for beginners?
Scratch uses visual blocks to teach programming concepts, making it easier for beginners to learn coding.

3. What are comparison blocks in Scratch?
Comparison blocks compare two values, such as equal to (==), greater than (>), or less than (<).

4. Can programming solve real-world problems?
Yes, programming can automate tasks, analyze data, and create tools to make life easier.

5. Why are mobile and smart devices important?
They use programs to provide solutions, from managing schedules to controlling home appliances.