Key terms & definitions

The underlying structure or concept of a television programme, which can be adapted to make local versions in different countries.

A language used to express instructions that a computer can carry out.

Software that translates or carries out instructions written in a programming language so that a processor can execute the program.

The belief that societies will develop and improve over time, for example through knowledge, technology or moral understanding.

Gradually increasing training demands over time as the body adapts.

A manufacturing system in which product parts are grouped into bundles; each operative completes their set operation on a bundle before passing it to the next operative.

A relaxation technique involving gently tensing and then releasing successive muscle groups to reduce physical tension.

Gradually increasing training demands as the body adapts, so that further fitness improvements occur.

A substance that sporting rules forbid a performer from using.

The nationwide US ban on the manufacture, sale and transportation of alcoholic drinks, in force from 1920 to 1933.

An estimate of a future value based on existing information and assumptions.

A flat representation of a three-dimensional object as viewed from a chosen direction.

An estimate of what may happen in the future, based on evidence and assumptions available at the time.

The right-angled shadow of a line on a plane, formed by dropping a perpendicular from the line's raised endpoint to the plane.

An organism whose cells lack a nucleus; bacteria and archaea are prokaryotes.

A single-celled organism whose cell has no nucleus.

A cell whose genetic material is not enclosed within a nucleus; bacterial cells are prokaryotic.

A cell whose genetic material is not enclosed within a nucleus. Bacterial cells are prokaryotic cells.

A flash-forward to events later than the main narrative’s present.

The idea that some white-collar workers, such as clerical staff, move down into the working class as their work becomes less skilled and more routine.

In Marx’s theory, the working class that does not own the means of production and must sell its labour to earn a living.

The position that unborn human life should be protected, generally involving opposition to abortion.

An increase in cell numbers through repeated cell division.

An opening speech or section that introduces a dramatic work before its main action begins.

A walkway designed for strolling, often beside the sea.

A Titan in Greek mythology who, in some versions, created humanity from clay and who stole fire for humankind, suffering punishment from Zeus.

The Titan who stole fire for humanity and warned Epimetheus not to accept gifts from Zeus. His name means ‘forethought’.

Having many different sexual partners or sexual relationships.

The land of Canaan promised by God to Abraham and his descendants, understood in Judaism as a homeland connected with their covenant with God.

Activities used to communicate with customers, raise awareness and encourage purchases, such as advertising and sales promotions.