Turtle Graphics (Python)

Description #

Turtle Graphics is a built-in Python module that allows users to control a turtle that moves on the screen to create drawings and patterns. It’s widely used as an introductory tool for teaching programming and geometry through visual feedback.

History #

Turtle Graphics originated from the Logo programming language in the 1960s, where students could control a turtle robot to draw shapes. Python’s turtle module is a modern implementation of this concept, bundled with Python’s standard library. It has become a staple in early programming education due to its simplicity and immediate visual results.

Hello World Code #

import turtle

t = turtle.Turtle()
t.write("Hello, World!", font=("Arial", 16, "normal"))
turtle.done()

How to Run #

Option 1: Online

• Replit – Python Turtle
• Trinket – Turtle Graphics

Option 2: Local

1. Make sure Python is installed (comes with turtle module)
2. Save the code as hello.py
3. Run:

python hello.py

Key Concepts #

1. Built-in module in Python
2. Event-driven drawing
3. Functions for movement: forward(), left(), penup()
4. Text output with write()
5. Easy introduction to loops and functions
6. Visualizes control flow and logic
7. Customizable turtle shapes and colors
8. Works well for younger learners
9. No additional installation required
10. Encourages creativity and experimentation

Try It Online #

• Replit Turtle Starter
• Trinket Turtle Demo

Fun Facts #

• The original “turtle” was an actual robot that drew with a pen.
• Turtle graphics can be used to demonstrate complex math visually.
• Many schools use turtle graphics as students’ first exposure to Python.

Resources #

• Python Turtle Docs
• PythonTurtle.org
• Turtle Cheat Sheet (CS Circle)
• Trinket Turtle Projects