Module 05

Teach ManoNew Skills

Functions let us give a group of instructions a name. Once Mano learns a skill, we can ask her to use it whenever we need it.

defFunction CallsReusable CodeParameters

Python05

Watch

Meet Python Functions

Watch the short lesson, then use the interactive activity below to follow Python as it calls a function.

The Big Idea

Imagine Mano needs to move forward many times. Instead of repeatedly writing the same instructions, we can package them into one function.

Use def to teach Python a new function.

Give the skill a meaningful name such as move_forward.

Use move_forward() whenever Mano needs that skill.

Interactive Learning

Step through the program and watch how Python moves from the main program into the function and then returns.

mano_functions.py

1def move_forward():

2 print("Moving forward")

4move_forward()

Output

Waiting for Mano...

Step 1 of 5

The def keyword creates a function. We are teaching Mano a skill called move_forward.

def move_forward():

Give Functions Information

Mano does not always need to move the same distance. A parameter lets us give the function information when we call it.

def move_forward(distance):

print("Moving", distance,"cm")

move_forward(20)

move_forward(50)

Your Mission

Create a function called turn_left() that prints "Turning left". Then call the function twice.

def __________________():

print("__________________")

__________________()

You've completed Module 05