IGCSEComputer ScienceCIERevision Notes4. Software4.2 Types of Programming Language, Translators & IDEsHigh & Low Level Languages
Revision Note
Author
Expertise
Computer Science
High & Low Level Languages
Low Level Languages
- Low Level Languages are languages that sit close to a computer’s instruction set. These are basic instructions that the CPU will understand
- For instance an assembly language which allows programmers to focus on programming simple commands, which in turn is converted into machine code This element is needed for the core hardware to be able to work with the software
- These languages are written for specific processors to ensure they embed the correct machine architecture
- Assembly Language - The code is written using mnemonics, abbreviated text commands such as LDA (Load), STO(Store) Using this language programmers can write human-readable programs that correspond almost exactly to machine code.
- Machine code – is at the hardware level and is written in binary (1’s and 0’s)
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It gives programmers complete control over the system components so it can control hardware components. | Difficult to write and understand |
Efficient code can be written for the processor so it will occupy less memory and execute faster | Machine dependent and cannot be added to different specification machines |
They provide direct manipulation of hardware which means it will be more efficient | More prone to errors |
Communicates directly with hardware | Knowledge of computer architecture is key to program effectively |
High Level Languages
- High Level Languages are programming languages which use English-like statements which allow users to program with easy to use code, allow for clear debugging and once programs are created they become easier to maintain
- High level languages were needed more due to the development of processor speeds and memory capacity increasing
- Examples of these languages are Python, C#, Java etc
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It is easier to read and write and the programmer is less likely to make mistakes | The user is not able to directly manipulate the hardware |
It is easier to debug so it will save time | Needs to be translated to machine code before running |
The code is portable so can be used on any computer | The program may be less efficient |
One line of code can perform multiple commands |
Exam Tip
- You will be asked about the advantages and disadvantages of high or low level languages or you will be asked to compare and contrast between the two types of language
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Author: Brett Murphy
Brett is a passionate Computer Science teacher of over 9 years, he has taught in a number of schools across the Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire regions. His aim is to bridge gaps and allow learners to build confidence and thrive within the subject and believe in themselves to succeed. Brett has continued to improve on practice by continuing to develop and implement resources to support learners in understanding the core concepts to succeed in their exams.
