1.63 Simulation

In this simulation, you will apply your understanding of sequence, selection, and repetition by designing and implementing a Python solution.

Purpose

The simulation challenges students to:

• Decompose a larger problem into logical steps

• Write precise pseudocode and visualise logic with flowcharts

• Implement combined control structures in Python

• Reflect on their design, testing, and problem-solving process

Scenario

Students will design a menu-based virtual vending machine that:

• Displays at least three item choices

• Allows the user to select, confirm, or cancel a purchase

• Loops until the user chooses to exit

This task requires multi-way selection and looping structures.

Accessing the simulation notebook

Students can download the simulation notebook directly from the repository:

⬇ Download the simulation notebook

They should work in JupyterLab, VS Code, or another .ipynb-compatible editor, completing all sections.

Learning outcomes

By completing this simulation, students will:

• Apply pseudocode and flowcharting to plan a program

• Implement Python code using sequence, selection, and repetition

• Handle user input and invalid selections robustly

• Reflect on the design and testing process to improve future work

Submission

Students should submit:

• Completed .ipynb file with all sections filled out

• Any attached or linked flowchart images

• Commit and push their work to their personal repository