Python Data Structures and Tools

This unit expands on basic Python syntax to cover core data structures, control flow, functions, exceptions, and introductory object-oriented concepts. It also introduces practical development tools and workflows — packages, virtual environments, file and database persistence, basic web/API interaction, and packaging — to prepare students for building and deploying simple applications.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze and manipulate Python core data types (strings with special characters, lists, tuples, and dictionaries) using indexing, slicing, nesting, and character selection to model and retrieve game-related data.
• Apply control flow and error-handling constructs, including nested decision statements, nested loops, and try/except blocks, to implement, test, and debug program logic.
• Demonstrate modular development practices by creating and using functions, importing and extending classes (including external classes), configuring virtual environments, and installing and managing packages.
• Evaluate persistent storage and deployment techniques by creating and reading files, interacting with databases via SQLAlchemy, performing basic web/API programming (e.g., Google Maps), and packaging applications for distribution (PyInstaller).