Superclass and subclass

Term

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Definition

A superclass is the parent class that supplies shared features; a subclass is a child class that inherits them and adds its own.

Example: Dog is a subclass of Animal.

Found in: past SDD papers.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y11 OOP.

Question types it can appear in

Drawing: class diagram
Python: class Child(Parent)
Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Where it has appeared in the paper

The Software Engineering Project (Part A, B). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“A superclass is the parent class that supplies shared features; a subclass is a child class that inherits them and adds its own.” Then apply it: Dog is a subclass of Animal.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Go deeper

Flashcard: Superclass and subclass in The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11) · study that set
Memorise: Object-oriented concepts
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Superclass and subclass

Check yourself

Explain “Superclass and subclass” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.

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