Programming Fundamentals/Arrays/Fixed-Length Arrays

A fixed-length array is an array for which the size or length is determined when the array is created and/or allocated. This activity introduces fixed-length arrays. This activity will help you understand how to use fixed-length arrays in a program.

Objectives

 * Understand fixed-length array concepts
 * Understand how fixed-length array values are assigned in a program.
 * Use a for loop to assign and display array values.

Prerequisites
Learners should already be familiar with defined-value arrays and the syntax for defining fixed-length arrays in their preferred programming language.

Introduction
Review the following pseudocode.

Declare Integer values[3]

For index = 0 To 2 Output "Enter value " + (index + 1) + ":" Input values[index] End For

For index = 0 To 2 Output values[index] End For

Questions

 * What syntax is used to define fixed-length arrays in your preferred programming language?
 * What syntax is used to reference array elements in your preferred programming language?
 * What syntax is used to assign a value to an array element in your preferred programming language?
 * What number is used to reference the first element in an array?

Activity
With a partner, use Repl.it or your preferred integrated development environment (IDE) to create a program based on the pseudocode above.
 * 1) Start by declaring an array with a fixed length of three.
 * 2) Create a for loop to input values into the array.
 * 3) Create a for loop to display the array values.
 * 4) Save the program.
 * 5) Test the program to verify that it works correctly.
 * 6) Trade places, so that both partners have an opportunity to "drive" the programming environment.
 * 7) Modify the program to increase the number of values in the array.
 * 8) Modify the program to decrease the number of values in the array.
 * 9) Experiment with using the wrong starting or ending index values in the for loop (For example, 1 to 3 rather than 0 to 2).
 * 10) Working together, create a list of changes that might be made to use fixed-length arrays in programs you've already written. What parts could be replaced with a fixed-length array?

Applications

 * Identify specific steps which must be followed when creating a program using fixed-length arrays.
 * Discuss your activity experience with your classmates. What surprised you? What have you learned that you can apply to your own school or work environment?