Variables
Store values in named variables, and change them to change what a program does.
A sample lesson from this module is playable in the demo. The full module is not written yet; it is not a finished course.
Why it matters
A shopkeeper keeps a running count of the bags of rice left. A variable is a named place where a program keeps a value like that and changes it.
Draft outline · in review- For
- Level 7–9 · JSS 1 to JSS 3 (BECE)
- Inside
- 5 lessons and a test · about 60 minutes
- Topic
- Python basics · foundation, 1 of 4
Inside the module.
5 lessons in order, about 60 minutes in all, then a short test. Learners go at their own pace; the minutes are a guide, not a timetable.
Draft outline · in review
Lesson 1: Names for values
A variable is a name that points to a value, set with =.
Explain10 min, from minute 0
Lesson 2: Rice in the shop
Track bags of rice as they are sold and delivered.
Worked example15 min, from minute 10
Lesson 3: Change a value
Change variables and predict what each program prints.
Practice20 min, from minute 25
Lesson 4: Good names
Why bags_left is clearer than x, and Python's naming rules.
Discussion10 min, from minute 45
Lesson 5: Check your skills
Short prediction and naming questions.
Review5 min, from minute 55
End-of-module test
Store and change values in well-named variables and predict what short programs print.
Mastered at 85% or more. Retake it until you pass; nothing is lost, and each try gives feedback.
Already know it? A Challenge Test (planned) clears the whole module: 90% overall, no objective below 75%.
Last stageafter about 60 min
Practicalities
Draft outline · in reviewBuilt to run offline
Planned to run on the Lantern's own computer, with no internet needed.
Languages
Planned first in English; every module aims to reach all of the Lantern's languages.
Try a question.
One question from the module, as a learner would meet it. Have a go, then open the worked solution a step at a time.
Draft outline · in review
What does this print? bags = 10 bags = bags - 3 print(bags)
Work it out on paper first, then show the answer and mark it yourself.
Particulars
Where it sits
What a learner can do after it
- Store a value in a named variable.
- Change a variable's value to change what a program does.
- Choose clear variable names.
Needs first
Level
Level 7–9 · JSS 1 to JSS 3 (BECE)
Level mappings are approximate. A qualified teacher or lecturer in each country must check them before they appear in the app.
Difficulty for its level
1 of 4 · Foundation
Time
About 60 minutes
Alignments
- Aligned to CSTApartial · in review2-AP-11
- Aligned to PCEPpartial · in reviewPCEP: variables (descriptive ref)
Alignment in review until a qualified teacher or lecturer checks it. No exam body, university or vendor endorses us; learners still sit the real exam.
Challenge Test
Planned: a Challenge Test to prove you know it and skip it. Pass at 90% overall, with no objective below 75%.
University courses it previews
Computer Science, Software Engineering
On these pathways
The route here.
Everything this module builds on, drawn as a route from its foundations. Solid lanes must be mastered first, or cleared by a Challenge Test; dashed lanes are suggestions that never lock anything.
- CO-BLK-SEQ-01Instructions in orderCoding · Primary 1 to Primary 4 (Level 1–4) · Planned
- CO-BLK-LOP-01Repeat blocksCoding · Primary 3 to Primary 5 (Level 3–5) · Sample lesson in the demo Needs Instructions in order (required).Try the sample lesson: Repeat blocks
- DS-CMP-TYP-01The home rowDigital skills · Primary 3 to Primary 6 (Level 3–6) · Planned · recommended
- CO-BLK-LOP-02Patterns with loopsCoding · Primary 4 to Primary 6 (Level 4–6) · Planned Needs Repeat blocks (required).
- CO-PRG-PYB-01Your first Python programCoding · JSS 1 to JSS 3 (BECE) (Level 7–9) · Planned Needs Patterns with loops (required), The home row (recommended).
- CO-PRG-PYB-02VariablesCoding · JSS 1 to JSS 3 (BECE) (Level 7–9) · Sample lesson in the demo · the destination Needs Your first Python program (required).Try the sample lesson: Variables
Help light the room where this is learned.
Every route on this map starts in a classroom with 24 stations, a tutor that works offline and a facilitator upstairs. Four are planned and waiting for light.