Test Your Knowledge!

Question

1. Why would a programmer use a parameter instead of typing a value directly into a function? (Short Response)

2. What might happen if you call a function but don’t include the required parameter(s)?
(Short Response)

3. How did using multiple parameters in the “Painting a Rainbow” activity change the outcome of your program? (Short Response)

Answer 1

1. A programmer would use a parameter instead of typing a value directly into a function to increase the function's flexibility and reusability. Parameters allow the programmer to pass different values to the function without modifying its code each time it is called. This makes the function adaptable for various situations and inputs, leading to more efficient and maintainable code.

2. If you call a function but don’t include the required parameter(s), it typically results in a runtime error, as the function expects certain inputs to execute properly. In many programming languages, this can lead to an exception being thrown, preventing the program from proceeding or causing it to behave unpredictably.

3. Using multiple parameters in the “Painting a Rainbow” activity allowed for greater customization of the output. It enabled adjustments to various attributes such as color, size, and position of the rainbows, leading to a wider range of outcomes. This demonstrates how parameters can enhance the functionality of a program by allowing for unique and varied responses based on the inputs provided.