Using for loops to iterate data structures
I can use a for loop to inspect every element of a list.
Using for loops to iterate data structures
I can use a for loop to inspect every element of a list.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Count-controlled iteration is implemented using for loops in Python.
- The range() function can be used with a for loop to specify the number of times that a for loop should iterate.
- For loops can be used to iterate through each item held in a list to inspect each item in turn.
Keywords
Iteration - the process of repeating a sequence of instructions within a program loop
For loop - a count-controlled loop used to repeat a specific block of code a known number of times
Common misconception
A for loop is the same as a while loop as they are both designed to repeat instructions. You should pick one and stick to it for all your programs.
Unlike a while loop, a for loop is count-controlled, meaning it will repeat a set number of times when the loop begins. In contrast, a while loop repeats instructions for as long as its condition is true. This can vary each time the loop runs.
To help you plan your year 9 computing lesson on: Using for loops to iterate data structures, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 computing lesson on: Using for loops to iterate data structures, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 computing lessons from the Python programming with sequences of data unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
All pupils require access to devices that can edit and run Python programs. Starter code files are available to copy or use directly via the Raspberry Pi Foundation's Code Editor.