PLTW Innovators and Makers Vocabulary Quiz

What is the definition of "algorithm" in the context of computer science?

• A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing a task

• A type of computer hardware

• A programming language

• A software application

Answer explanation

In computer science, an algorithm is defined as a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing a task. This distinguishes it from hardware, programming languages, or software applications.

Which of the following best describes "debugging"?

• Writing new code

• Finding and fixing errors in a program

• Designing a user interface

• Compiling a program

Answer explanation

Debugging refers to the process of finding and fixing errors in a program. This is essential for ensuring that the code runs correctly, making 'Finding and fixing errors in a program' the best description of debugging.

What does "input" refer to in computing?

• The data or instructions entered into a computer system

• The final output of a program

• The process of printing documents

• The storage capacity of a computer

Answer explanation

In computing, 'input' refers to the data or instructions entered into a computer system. This is essential for processing and generating output, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What is a "loop" in programming?

• A sequence of instructions that is repeated until a certain condition is met

• A type of error in a program

• A method of sorting data

• A function that returns a value

Answer explanation

A 'loop' in programming refers to a sequence of instructions that is executed repeatedly until a specified condition is satisfied. This allows for efficient code execution and handling of repetitive tasks.

Which of the following is an example of "output" in a computer program?

• A user typing on a keyboard

• A program displaying a message on the screen

• A computer processing data

• A file being saved to a hard drive

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'A program displaying a message on the screen' because output in a computer program refers to any information that is produced and presented to the user, such as messages or data displayed on a screen.

What is the primary purpose of a "variable" in programming?

• To store data that can change during program execution

• To perform calculations

• To display information to the user

• To connect to the internet

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of a variable in programming is to store data that can change during program execution, allowing for dynamic data manipulation and retrieval throughout the program's lifecycle.

What does "syntax" refer to in programming languages?

• The set of rules that defines the combinations of symbols that are considered to be correctly structured programs

• The speed at which a program runs

• The graphical interface of a program

• The hardware requirements for running a program

Answer explanation

In programming, 'syntax' refers to the set of rules that dictate how symbols can be combined to form correctly structured programs. This is essential for the code to be understood and executed by the compiler or interpreter.

What is a "function" in programming?

• A block of code designed to perform a particular task

• A type of data storage

• A method of user input

• A graphical element in a user interface

Answer explanation

A function in programming is defined as a block of code that performs a specific task. It allows for code reusability and organization, making it easier to manage complex programs.

Which of the following best describes "iteration" in programming?

• The process of repeating a set of instructions a specified number of times or until a condition is met

• The act of writing code

• The process of compiling a program

• The method of debugging a program

Answer explanation

Iteration in programming refers to the process of repeating a set of instructions either a specified number of times or until a certain condition is met, making it essential for tasks that require repetition.

What is the role of a "conditional statement" in programming?

• To execute different actions based on whether a condition is true or false

• To store user data

• To connect to a database

• To print documents

Answer explanation

A conditional statement allows a program to execute different actions based on whether a specified condition is true or false, making it essential for decision-making in code.