Programming Project Rubric

Programming Project Rubricprogramming Project Rubricunsatisfactorysati

Design a program that asks the user to enter a charge account number. The program should determine whether the number is valid by comparing it to a list of valid charge account numbers stored in an array. Use a sequential search algorithm to locate the number entered by the user. If the number is in the array, display a message indicating it is valid; otherwise, indicate it is invalid. Extend this functionality by creating data files: valid_numbers.txt containing valid accounts, possible_valid_numbers.txt with at least 10 numbers (half valid, half invalid), and an output file, results.txt, listing each number from the 'possible valid numbers' file and whether it is valid or invalid, aligned neatly. Include your name and student ID at the top of the output file.

The program must be designed using Raptor with modular programming techniques, including sub-charts for each module, with a main module kept simple. Implement the same logic in Python, utilizing functions for modularity, with a small main function. Document each symbol and variable using comments, explaining their data types and purpose. Test and debug the program thoroughly, creating sample data and verifying outputs. Ensure the program executes correctly and produces accurate results. Optional extra credit can be earned by adding significant features with prior approval.

Submission involves submitting the Raptor flowchart file (.rap), named as LastName_FirstInitial_FINAL.rap, your Python script (.py), named as LastName_FirstInitial_FINAL.py, and all data files used for input, correctly named and uploaded together.

Paper For Above instruction

The assignment presented revolves around creating a robust, modular program to validate charge account numbers against a predefined list of valid accounts, with the added complexity of handling external data files and outputting detailed results. This task emphasizes the importance of good programming practices such as modular design, thorough documentation, rigorous testing, and proper file management—a reflection of real-world software development scenarios.

At its core, the program must accept user input and compare it against a list of valid charge account numbers stored in an array. Implementing this using a sequential search algorithm entails iterating through the array to match the input, which exemplifies fundamental search techniques essential in programming. The extension involving files demonstrates adeptness at handling external data sources—reading from 'valid_numbers.txt' and 'possible_valid_numbers.txt'—and writing to 'results.txt'. This adds a layer of complexity, requiring clear understanding of file I/O operations, data parsing, and formatted output for clarity and professionalism in presentation.

Developing the solution in Raptor with sub-charts promotes clear, visual algorithm design, facilitating understanding and debugging. The adherence to modular programming principles, such as breaking the program into smaller functions or sub-charts, ensures that each component manages a specific task—reading data files, validating numbers, writing results—thus enhancing maintainability and scalability. This mirrors best practices in software engineering, including separation of concerns and code reusability.

Transitioning the logic into Python reinforces core coding skills, emphasizing the importance of functions for modularity. Proper documentation using comments explains the purpose of variables, data types, and control structures, which is vital in collaborative environments and for future reference. Rigorous testing, such as inputting known valid and invalid numbers, helps identify and correct errors, ensuring reliable program execution—an essential phase in the software development lifecycle.

The optional extra credit offers an opportunity to extend functionalities beyond basic requirements. Such enhancements might include adding a user interface, implementing more sophisticated search algorithms, or integrating database connectivity. Prior approval of proposed features ensures they align with the project's scope and learning objectives, fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving skills.

Overall, this assignment underscores key facets of programming and software development: designing user-centric applications, employing proper coding standards, thoroughly testing software, and documenting processes for clarity. It prepares students for the demands of real-world projects where clarity, correctness, efficiency, and maintainability are paramount.

References

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