List

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Definition

An ordered, changeable collection of items (Python list) that can grow and shrink and can hold mixed types.

Example: scores = [3, 5]; scores.append(8)

Found in: syllabus, course specifications, 2025 HSC marking guidelines, school notes, past SDD papers.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y11 Programming Fundamentals.

Question types it can appear in

Python: append, index, loop
Code reading: Code or algorithm reading: interpret a fragment and state its output or purpose.
Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.

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

“An ordered, changeable collection of items (Python list) that can grow and shrink and can hold mixed types.” Then apply it: scores = [3, 5]; scores.append(8)

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.

Official worked answer

Sample exam Q21b (5 marks): Python: subroutines, lists, loops (5 marks): official criteria and sample answer

Criteria

5: Substantially correct Python program that places each subject in the correct period; displays all 5 days; provides appropriate subroutines; programmatically builds the timetable. 4: Most requirements. 3: Some requirements. 2: One requirement. 1: Some understanding.

Sample answer

subjects = ["English", "Software", "Drama", "Science", "Art"] NUM_DAYS = 5 NUM_PERIODS = 5 DAYS_OF_WEEK = ["Monday", "Tuesday", "Wednesday", "Thursday", "Friday"]

def create_timetable(subjects): timetable = [] for day in range(NUM_DAYS): periods = [] for period in range(NUM_PERIODS): periods.append(subjects[(period - day) % NUM_PERIODS]) timetable.append(periods) return timetable

def print_timetable(timetable): print() for day in range(NUM_DAYS): print(f"{DAYS_OF_WEEK[day]}") for period in range(NUM_PERIODS): print(f"\tPeriod {period+1}: {timetable[day][period]}") print()

timetable = create_timetable(subjects) print_timetable(timetable)

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Go deeper

Flashcard: List in Programming Fundamentals (Year 11) · study that set
Memorise: Data structures
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for List

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