Terminology Background Knowledge Probe Kate Deibel March 29, 2004 Background Knowledge Probe

This probe is meant to provide a picture of the students' prior knowledge of computer science terms.

The following questions will not be graded and are a means of helping the instructor understand the knowledge of computer science that you posess coming into the class.

Define the following terms:

  1. Iteration
  2. Parameter
  3. Scope
  4. Variable
  5. Function
  6. Boolean
  7. Loop
  8. Method
  9. Constant
  10. Character
True and False:
  1. A variable can have multiple values.
  2. It is possible to have a function with no parameters.
  3. Loops keep repeating forever.
  4. If x is the integer 5, then x / 2 = 2.5

Define the following terms:

  1. Iteration: Repetition of a sequence of instructions
  2. Parameter: A required input for a function or method
  3. Scope: The region of code in which a variable exists
  4. Variable: A named location in memory that stores a value
  5. Function: A subprogram that is reused throughout a larger program
  6. Boolean: A variable that indicates either TRUE or FALSE
  7. Loop: A programming construct that allows a series of commands to be repeated till a stopping condition is met
  8. Method: A function that is a member of an object class
  9. Constant: A variable whose value cannot be changed.
  10. Character: Any member of the set of letters, numbers, punctuation, and white space
True and False:
  1. A variable can have multiple values. FALSE
  2. It is possible to have a function with no parameters. TRUE
  3. Loops keep repeating forever. FALSE
  4. If x is the integer 5, then x / 2 = 2.5 . FALSE

For open response questions, student answers should be separated into piles "Correct CS Usage," "Correct but not CS," "Incorrect," and "Unclear."

For fixed answer questions, answers should be counted and tallied. For multiple choice questions, look at the distribution of answers across all the choices in order to identify common misconceptions.

Be careful to not over generalize from these results. The results are best used to refine lessons plans and to mentally prepare for student questions and misconceptions. Be careful when referring to the results to avoid humiliating or insulting the students.

After students answer the background probes individually, have them reanswer the questions in small groups. Have students exchange responses and comment on them. Improve memory skills Learn terms and facts Learn concepts and theories Functions Variables Loops Basic Terminology MEDIUM LOW HIGH HIGH Next Day Summary Has Been Enabled Syntax Semantics Terminology Language Differences