Core Programming Structures and Data

This unit covers essential programming constructs, fundamental data structures, basic algorithms, and introductory software engineering practices. Students will practice using data types, control flow, modularization, file I/O, debugging, simple security concepts, and documentation to build reliable programs that prepare them for more advanced topics.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze and select appropriate data types and data structures (arrays, linked lists, dictionaries, queues, trees) to solve given programming problems and justify choices based on time and space trade-offs.
• Apply control flow constructs (if-then-else, if-then-elseif, while, do loops, event-driven patterns) and implement basic algorithms (selection sort, indexing, regex searching) to manipulate and search data in working code.
• Demonstrate modular programming by designing and implementing subprograms with parameters, encapsulating data and behavior, performing fixed-size file I/O, and producing clear inline and external documentation.
• Evaluate program correctness, performance, and basic security by using debugging techniques, test cases, and introductory encryption/compression or defensive coding strategies to identify and mitigate errors and vulnerabilities.