Term | Definition |
abstraction | Pulling out specific differences to make one solution work for multiple problems. |
algorithm | A list of steps to finish a task. A set of instructions that ca be performed with or without a computer. For example, the collection of steps to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich is an algorithm. |
binary | A way of representing information using only two options. |
blockly | The visual programming language used in Code.org's online learning system for K-5 students. |
bug | An error in a program that prevents the program from running as expected. |
call (a function) | This is the piece of code that you add to a program to indicate that the program should run the code inside a function at a certain time. |
code | One or more commands or algorithm(s) designed to be carried out by a computer. |
command | An instruction for the computer. |
computational thinking | Making problems into smaller, more manageable problems, find repeating patterns and step-by-step algorithms. |
computer science | Using the power of computers to solve problems. |
conditionals | Statements that only run under certain conditions or situations. |
crowdsourcing | Getting help from a large group of people to finish something faster or for funding. |
data | Information |
debugging | Finding and fixing errors in programs. |
decompose | Break a problem down into smaller pieces. |
define | To add code inside a function so that the program knows what it is supposed to do when the function is called. |
digital citizen | Someone who acts safely, responsibly, and respectfully online. |
digital footprint | The information about someone on the Internet. |
DNS (domain name service) | The service that translates URLs to IP addresses. |
DSL/cable | A method of sending information using telephone or television cables. |
event | An action that causes something to happen. |
event-handler | A monitor for a specific event or action on a computer. |
fiber optic cable | A connection that uses light to transmit information. |
for loop | A loop with a predetermined beginning, end, and increment. |
function | A piece of code that you can easily call over and over again. |
function call | The piece of code that you add to a program to indicate that the program should run the code inside a function at a certain time. |
function definition | The code inside a function that instructs the program on what to do when the function is called. |
Internet | A group of computers and servers that are connected to each other. |
IP address | A number assigned to any item that is connected to the Internet. |
iteration | A repetitive action or command typically created with programming loops. |
loop | The action of doing something over and over again. |
packets | Small chunks of information that have been carefully formed from larger chunks of information. |
pattern matching | Finding similarities between things. |
Parameter | An extra piece of information that you pass to the function to customize it for a specific need. |
persistence | Trying again and again, even when something is very hard. |
program | An algorithm that has been coded into something that can be run by a machine. |
programming | The art of creating a program. |
run program | Cause the computer to execute the commands you've written in your program. |
servers | Computers that exist only to provide things to others. |
toolbox | The tall grey bar in the middle section of Code.org's online learning system that contains all of the commands you can use to write your program. |
URL | Easy-to-remember address (like www.code.org). |
username | A name you make up so that you can see or do things on a website, sometimes called a "screen name." |
variable | A placeholder for a piece of information that can change. |
Wi-Fi | A wireless method of sending information using radio waves. |
workspace | The white area on the right side of Code.org's online learning system where you drag and drop commands to build your program. |