Exam-style question
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A program is being designed to process a set of values and produce a result. Describe how a hierarchy chart could be constructed for this program and explain how the chart would support the subsequent construction of the program.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The top of the hierarchy chart could contain a main module representing the complete task.
- Beneath it, the design could show modules for obtaining the values, processing them and producing the result.
- If any of these tasks is still complex, it could be decomposed into further lower-level modules.
- The chart supports construction by providing a planned structure, showing how the parts relate and allowing each module to be considered and implemented as part of the larger program.
Explanation
Why this works
The answer should apply hierarchy-chart design to the scenario rather than merely define the term. It should show decomposition from a main task into related subtasks and explain how this plan makes construction more organised and manageable.
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