What is Python used for?

Python is a programming language used for creating software, websites, games, and educational projects. It is popular with beginners because it is easy to read and understand.

How do I install Python and IDLE for junior secondary students?

You can download Python from the official Python.org website. The standard installation includes Python's IDLE, a simple and distraction-free code editor recommended for beginners and junior secondary students.

Do I need special software to start learning Python?

No. Python comes with IDLE, a beginner-friendly editor that is perfect for junior secondary students.

Which editors can beginners use for Python?

Beginners can start with IDLE, and later explore editors like Notepad++, Visual Studio Code, or PyCharm.

How do junior secondary students run Python code in IDLE?

To run code in IDLE, you must first create a new file, write your Python commands, save the file, and then click 'Run' > 'Run Module' (or press F5) to execute the script.

Why is it important to combine Maths and Python in junior secondary education?

Combining Maths and Python allows students to build essential computational thinking skills, visualize abstract arithmetic concepts, and create practical coding projects that reinforce their junior secondary school math curriculum.

Do I need prior coding experience to learn Python?

No prior programming experience is required. This tutorial is designed for complete beginners.

Python for Junior Secondary Students: Setup Guide & Math Coding Projects

Junior-Level Python Coding Prerequisites - What You Need!

Python is one of the easiest programming languages for beginners, making it perfect for kids and junior secondary students who are just starting their coding journey. This guide will show you how to install Python, use the IDLE editor, and write your very first program. Whether you are a teacher introducing coding in the classroom or a parent supporting your child at home, Python provides a fun and simple way to learn programming basics.

Why Learn Python in Junior Secondary School?

Easy to read and write: Python's syntax is simple, so children can focus on problem-solving rather than memorizing complex rules.
Widely used: From web development to artificial intelligence, Python is everywhere. Starting early gives kids a head start.
Encourages creativity: Students can quickly see results from their code, which builds confidence and curiosity.

Installing Python for Beginners

This beginner Python tutorial will guide you through setting up your development environment.
To get started, download Python from the official website. The installation process is straightforward, and once complete, you'll have access to Python IDLE, a beginner-friendly editor included with Python.

Steps to install Python:

Visit official Python website.
Download the latest version suitable for your computer.
Follow the installation wizard to set up Python.

Using Python's IDLE for Junior Secondary Students

Before you begin coding in Python as a beginner or junior secondary student, it's important to understand how Python IDLE works.
Python IDLE is the simplest way for beginners to start coding. It allows junior secondary students to type commands and instantly see results.

If you are a beginner or junior secondary student, creating a new file on IDLE is simple:
Click File, New File.

To begin coding, open Python IDLE and create a new file. This allows you to write Python code in a clear and organised way.

Example:


                        print("Hello, world!")

This one line of code introduces children to the basics of programming—giving them the excitement of creating something themselves.

Students can use Python IDLE or a basic text editor to:

Write simple Python instructions
Save files with a `.py` extension
Edit Python code safely

This process helps learners understand how Python programs are created and stored.

Running Python Code

Once your Python program is written and saved, it can be run directly in Python IDLE.

Running Python code allows students to:

See how their program works
Identify mistakes
Understand how instructions are executed

This immediate feedback is essential for learning Python basics and building confidence in coding.

For the beginners or junior secondary students, to run python codes from the IDLE editor is straight-forward:
Click Run, Run Module; or F5

You can also run python codes from a command shell;
open a command shell and type python filename.py.

To edit an existing python file in IDLE, right-click on the file and select Edit with IDLE.

Other Beginner-Friendly Editors

While IDLE is perfect for first steps, older students may enjoy exploring other editors with more features:

Notepad++ - lightweight and simple for writing Python scripts.
Visual Studio Code - popular among beginners for its extensions and auto-completion.
PyCharm - a professional editor that helps students transition to advanced projects.

While you can use professional tools like PyCharm or VS Code later, we recommend setting up python for junior secondary students using IDLE first because it is simple and distraction-free.

Tip: You can also use Notepad++ for Python editing if you prefer a lightweight text editor with syntax highlighting.

Notice: Our Python colour coding follows that of Python's IDLE.
Python's IDLE has no auto-completion for braces and quotes though, so feel free to use Notepad++.
(To turn auto-completion on in Notepad++, click on Settings >> Preferences >> Auto-Completion.)

Introductory Python Tutorial for Junior Secondary Students

For a beginner-friendly Python tutorial for kids and junior secondary students, summarised to only the key facts to help young learners comprehend the Python language and get started with utilising Python for coding, check our A beginner's Tutorial and Guide to the Python Programming Language from the Junior Secondary Category.

Getting Started with Python Coding for Beginners and Junior Secondary Students