Lesson 1: Diagnostic Test + Python Refresher
Learning Intentions
- Establish each student's current Python knowledge and refresh the fundamentals they met in Year 8.
Success Criteria
- I have completed the 40-mark diagnostic test.
- I know which tier (Support / Core / Extension) I'm starting the term in.
- I have re-run variables, strings, lists, and if-statements at a Y9 pace.
📍 Do Now — Error of the Day
Open a blank document and write in 2-3 lines: what do YOU remember about Python from Year 8? Variables? Lists? Loops? Write whatever comes to mind — this is a warm-up, no judgement.
👁 I Do — Teacher Demo
I hand out the 40-mark diagnostic test. Explains the 4 parts (Predict / Short answer / Code reading / Coding task). Sets a 50-minute timer. Walk around during the test to answer logistics questions only (not content).
🤝 We Do — Build Together
After the test — class review of 3 commonly-missed questions from today's Part A. Projector-based discussion: 'why does "5" + "3" give 53, not 8?' etc.
🚀 You Do — Your Turn
Refresh yourself on the topic from Part A you got wrong. Use the arcade's Predict + Drill quests below. No pressure — this is for YOU to know what to brush up on.
- Diagnostic test Parts A-D (Recognition / Short answer / Code reading / Coding task)
- Hand-in for teacher marking
- Teacher-led refresh of whichever concept the class scored lowest on
🎮 Practice Quests — work through these
Loading practice quests for this lesson...
Three tiers — pick yours
Support
test has Part D dropped; extra 10 min allowed
Core
Follow the plan as written. Attempt the arcade quests above at your own pace.
Extension
bonus questions on functions + classes. EAL/D: test translated glossary of Python terms
Extensions
- Finish early? Attempt bonus Part E questions.
- Help a classmate (without giving them answers).
📝 Exit Ticket — Coding Journal
Journal entry: what's one concept you felt rusty on today? One thing you remembered easily?
Evidence of Learning
Completed test. Individual tier placement. Teacher has diagnostic data for each of the 23 mainstream students.