Question 1
Learning objective
Local variables in subroutines: Know that subroutines may declare their own variables, called local variables, and that local variables: • exist only while the subroutine is executing • are accessible only within the subroutine. Be able to use local variables and explain why it is good practice to do so.
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Topic
Programming
Subtopic
Local variables in subroutines
Aqa A Level Computer ScienceFundamentals of programming
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Understand this objective
Quick explanation
Local variables in subroutines: Know that subroutines may declare their own variables, called local variables, and that local variables: • exist only while the subroutine is executing • are accessible only within the subroutine. Be able to use local variables and explain why it is good practice to do so
- This point belongs to Programming, especially Local variables in subroutines.
- You need to be able to local variables in subroutines: Know that subroutines may declare their own variables, called local variables, and that local variables: • exist only while the subroutine is executing • are accessible only within the subroutine. Be able to use local variables and explain why it is good practice to do so.
- Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.
Why it matters
This objective helps connect Local variables in subroutines to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Programming.
Quick student answer
What is a local variable?
Direct answer
A variable declared inside a subroutine and accessible only there
Key terms
- Local variable: A variable declared within a subroutine that is accessible only within that subroutine and exists only while the subroutine is executing.
- Subroutine: A named section of a program that can be executed to perform a particular task and can contain its own local variables.
Common trap
Confusing local variables with variables available everywhere: Remember that a local variable is accessible only within the subroutine that declares it and exists only while that subroutine is executing.
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Related learning objectives
- Data types: Understand the concept of a data type. Understand and use the following appropriately: • integer • real/float • Boolean • character • string • date/time • pointer/reference • records (or equivalent) • arrays (or equivalent). Variables declared as a pointer or reference data type are used as stores for memory addresses of objects created at runtime, ie dynamically. Not all languages support explicit pointer types, but students should have an opportunity to understand this data type. Define and use user-defined data types based on language-defined (built-in) data types.
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