Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Computer Science
Lesson Topic: Define and use procedures and functions, with or without parameters
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the difference between procedures and functions and when each is appropriate.
  • Explain parameter‑passing methods (none, value, reference) and variable scope.
  • Write pseudocode to define and call procedures and functions with and without parameters.
  • Apply best‑practice guidelines to create modular, readable sub‑programs.
  • Solve exam‑style tasks that combine procedures and functions.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Slide deck with definitions and examples
  • Printed worksheet containing pseudocode exercises
  • Computers with an IDE or pseudocode editor
  • Handout of example procedures and functions
  • Whiteboard and markers
Introduction:
Begin with a quick recall question about what a sub‑program is, linking to previous lessons on variables. Highlight that today’s focus is on distinguishing procedures from functions and mastering parameter use. Explain that by the end of the lesson students will be able to write and call both types correctly.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5'): Students answer a short checklist on procedures vs functions.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Define procedures and functions, show key differences table.
  3. Guided demo (12'): Write a procedure (ShowGreeting) and a function (CircleArea) in pseudocode, discuss parameter types.
  4. Pair activity (15'): Complete worksheet – create a function to calculate circle area and a procedure to display a menu; identify local/global variables.
  5. Whole‑class review (8'): Share solutions, emphasise value vs reference parameters using the swap example.
  6. Exit ticket (5'): Each student writes one line calling a function with parameters and states the expected return value.
Conclusion:
Recap the main distinctions between procedures and functions and the importance of proper parameter handling. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign a homework task to write a small program that uses both a procedure and a function to solve a real‑world problem. Encourage students to review the best‑practice checklist before the next lesson.