Python Reading
Key Ideas
- Thus far, we have used the procedural paradigm to solve problems. With the procedural paradigm, the focus on solving a problem is on the actions. In Python, these actions are implemented with functions.
- Python also supports the object-oriented programming paradigm. With the OOP paradigm, the focus on solving a problem is on the objects. An object contains both data (called the state) and functionality (called methods).
- Example: Consider the turtle module. This module is implemented using object-oriented programming. What are three methods that each turtle has? What are three aspects of a turtle's state?
In-Class Activity
- Take a look at date.py.
- What are the state variables of the Date class?
- What are the methods of the Date class?
- Terminology: The __init__ method is called a constructor.
- Terminology: The get_month, get_day and get_year methods are called reader methods.
- Terminology: The set_day method is called a writer method.
- Terminology: Another name for a state variable is an instance variable.
- Are there any aspects of date.py that you do not understand?
Active Learning
- Create a class named Pokemon that has the following instance variables: number, name and combat_points. Add a constructor method that enables a new Pokémon to be created. Add methods named get_name, get_number, get_combat_points and set_combat_points. Write a program that utilizes the functionality of the Pokémon class in its entirety.