Sequence & Selection (Edexcel GCSE Computer Science)

Revision Note

Robert Hampton

Written by: Robert Hampton

Reviewed by: James Woodhouse

Sequence

What is sequence?

  • Sequence is a set of instructions executed one after another

Python example

def calculate_area(length, width):

"""

This function calculates the area of a rectangle

Inputs:

length: The length of the rectangle

width: The width of the rectangle

Returns:

The area of the rectangle

"""

# Calculate area

return area

area = length * width

# ------------------------------------------------------------------------# Main program

# ------------------------------------------------------------------------

length = 5

width = 3

correct_area = calculate_area(length, width)

print(f"Correct area (length * width): {correct_area}")

  • In the example, the sequence of instructions is wrong and would cause a runtime error

  • In the calculate_area() function a value is returned before it is assigned

  • The correct sequence is:

# Calculate area
area = length * width
return area

Selection

What is selection?

  • Selection is a programming construct that allows a program to execute in different ways based on the outcome of a condition

  • Selection is implemented using the if function

  • Nested selection can be used, the use of 'else' and 'elif' is preferable for efficiency and to make logic clearer

Python examples

age = 18
if age >= 18:
print("You are eligible to vote")
else:
print("You are not eligible to vote")

grade = 85

if grade >= 90:

print("Excellent!")

elif grade >= 80:

print("Very Good!")

else:

print("Good luck next time!")

Nested selection

is_registered = True

has_paid = False

if is_registered:

if has_paid:

print("You can access the course materials")

else:

print("Please complete your payment to access materials")

else:

print("Please register for the course first")

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Robert Hampton

Author: Robert Hampton

Expertise: Computer Science Content Creator

Rob has over 16 years' experience teaching Computer Science and ICT at KS3 & GCSE levels. Rob has demonstrated strong leadership as Head of Department since 2012 and previously supported teacher development as a Specialist Leader of Education, empowering departments to excel in Computer Science. Beyond his tech expertise, Robert embraces the virtual world as an avid gamer, conquering digital battlefields when he's not coding.

James Woodhouse

Author: James Woodhouse

Expertise: Computer Science

James graduated from the University of Sunderland with a degree in ICT and Computing education. He has over 14 years of experience both teaching and leading in Computer Science, specialising in teaching GCSE and A-level. James has held various leadership roles, including Head of Computer Science and coordinator positions for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. James has a keen interest in networking security and technologies aimed at preventing security breaches.