Computer Science

Introduction to the Number Base Unit

developed by John Owen

Computer Science Instructor, Rockport-Fulton High School,

Rockport, Texas

John Owen, Rockport Fulton HS 2

Objective

This unit of study is designed to introduce the novice computer science student to the concept of number bases in general and to the computer number bases (2, 8, and 16) in particular.

John Owen, Rockport Fulton HS 3

Time requirement

It can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks depending upon the level of student.

John Owen, Rockport Fulton HS 4

Counting, Place Value

It introduces the basic idea of counting in different bases and the place value system, associating it with the familiar base 10 system.

John Owen, Rockport Fulton HS 5

Twelve Conversions

It also teaches the twelve conversion techniques among the four bases (2,8,10, and 16)

John Owen, Rockport Fulton HS 6

Simple Operations, Equations

It also teaches addition and subtraction in these bases.

Finally it introduces solving simple equations involving these bases.

John Owen, Rockport Fulton HS 7

Example and exercises

Many examples are given as well as exercises provided.

Some answers are given outright, and some are given in a jumbled answer bank.

John Owen, Rockport Fulton HS 8

Sequence Here is the lesson sequence:

1. Lesson 1 – on counting basics, conversion from base 10 to binary, octal, and hexadecimal (exercises included)

2. Lesson 2 – on the nine remaining conversions

3. Number Exercises – for lesson 24. Addition (exercises included)5. Subtraction and Equations (exercises

included)

John Owen, Rockport Fulton HS 9

Correctness

Every effort has been made to verify correctness, however it is always possible errors exist.

If any are found, please let me know as soon as possible so they can be corrected.

John Owen, Rockport Fulton HS 10

Thank you

Thanks for using the unit…I hope it is helpful to you.

You may contact me at: jowen@acisd.org

John wen