- Understand the difference between a programming language and an IDE.
- Choose and set up your primary coding tool for this course.
Your Digital Workshop
To start programming, you need two things: the Python language itself and a program to write your code in, called an Integrated Development Environment (IDE). The IDE is your workshop; it's where you'll write, test, and fix your code.
Our recommended IDE is Thonny because it's simple, clean, and designed for beginners.
✅ Option 1: Install Thonny (Recommended)
This is the best option as you'll have a professional tool on your computer.
- On a School Computer: Open the "Software Center", search for "Thonny", and click "Install". Thonny comes bundled with Python, so you're all set! This video shows me installing on my ALCDSB computer.
- On a Personal Computer: Go to the official Thonny website: https://thonny.org/ and download the installer for your system (Windows or Mac). This video shows me installing on my personal computer.
🌐 Option 2: Use an Online IDE (Great Alternative)
If you can't install software (e.g., you're on a Chromebook), you can use a website that provides a complete coding environment in your browser. You may need to create a free account.
- Trinket.io: Simple and easy for small programs.
- https://codehs.com/CodeHS.com – Designed for education with built-in curriculum and exercises (often used in schools). I think I would recommendthis option.
- JDoodle.com – Fast and lightweight online compiler for quick code testing in many languages.
Whether you install Thonny or use an online tool, the Python code you write will be exactly the same. The goal is to have a place where you can write and run code. Get one of these options working before you proceed to the next lesson.
Interactive Sandbox
Use this space to practice writing code and complete the "Your Turn" activities above.