How to Pass COS1511: Introduction to Programming C++ (2025 Guide)

Module: COS1511 (Introduction to Programming)
Type: Year Module
Language: C++ (Standard)
Software: Code::Blocks (MinGW Compiler)

Introduction

COS1511 is the gatekeeper of the Computer Science degree. It teaches you how to think like a programmer. You will move from writing “Hello World” to building complex programs that sort data, calculate statistics, and manage memory.

This module uses C++, which is a strict, powerful language. Unlike Python, C++ forces you to understand exactly what the computer is doing with memory and variables.

The 2025 Assessment Plan

According to Tutorial Letter 101, there are 3 Assignments in total.

Assignment 1: Covers Chapters 1–16 (Variables, Decisions, Loops).
Assignment 2: Covers Chapters 17–23 (Functions, Scope).
Assignment 3: Covers Chapters 24–27 (Arrays, Strings).
Exam Admission: You MUST submit at least one assignment.
Weighting: The assignments count 20% towards your final mark. The Exam counts 80%.

The 3 Concepts You Must Master

1. Control Structures (If/Else & Loops)

You cannot pass this module if you cannot write a loop.

Decisions: if, else if, switch.
Loops: for, while, do-while.
Tip: Practice writing “nested loops” (a loop inside a loop). This is a favorite exam question (e.g., drawing a pattern of stars *).

2. Functions & Parameters

This is where most students get confused. You need to know the difference between:

Pass by Value: void myFunction(int x) (The function gets a copy of x).
Pass by Reference: void myFunction(int &x) (The function can change x).
Exam Trap: You will be asked to write a function that calculates a value and sends it back. If you forget the &, your program won’t work.

3. Arrays & Structs

Towards the end of the year, you will deal with lists of data.

Arrays: Storing multiple numbers in one variable (e.g., int marks[10];).
Structs: Creating your own data types (e.g., a Student struct with a name, age, and student number).

My Top Tips for Distinction

1. Install Code::Blocks Immediately
Don’t wait. Download and install Code::Blocks (the version with MinGW) today. If you can’t compile code on your own laptop, you will fail. The tutorial letter has a specific guide for this.

2. Draw Variable Diagrams
This is a unique COS1511 requirement. You will be asked to “trace” code on paper by drawing boxes for variables and changing their values step-by-step.

Why? It proves you understand the logic, not just the syntax.
Resource: Use the “Drawing Variable Diagrams Tutorial” linked in your study guide.

3. Do Not Copy Code
UNISA uses advanced plagiarism checkers. If you copy code from Chegg, ChatGPT, or a friend, you will get 0% and face a disciplinary hearing. Write every line of code yourself.

Conclusion

COS1511 is challenging but rewarding. It builds the foundation for everything else you will do in IT. If you practice coding every day, the logic will eventually “click.”

Good luck, and happy coding!