Prep 1: The Python Memory Model

This prep will introduce you to the basics of the Python memory model. When you have completed it, you will be able to:

• Describe the three components of a Python object
• Draw memory model diagrams to trace the execution of a simple Python program
• Distinguish between immutable and mutable data types
• Identify aliasing in a Python program
• Differentiate between identity and value equality

Due to how early it comes in the term, this first prep is not for credit. Nevertheless, we consider this prep to be required, and expect you to have completed both the reading and Quercus quiz before this week’s lectures. This will ensure that you have the best foundation for the course work this semester.

If you’ve joined the course late, it’s even more important that you go back and do this prep.

Readings to complete

• 1.1 The Python Memory Model: Introduction

Comprehension questions

Complete the Prep 1 quiz: Python Memory Model on Quercus.

Synthesize (none this week)

In future weeks, your prep work will culminate in a Python programming exercise that you complete on your computer and submit on MarkUs. Because this is the first week, there is no Synthesize exercise here.