High and low level languages
I can explain the differences between low-level and high-level programming languages and how they interact with hardware
High and low level languages
I can explain the differences between low-level and high-level programming languages and how they interact with hardware
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Computers run programs and code exactly as it is written.
- Low-level languages provide direct control over hardware.
- High-level languages use abstraction to make programming more human-readable.
Keywords
Low-level language - programming languages that require the programmer to use terms that are aligned to the operations of a specific machine
High-level language - a human-readable language written in formal, structured English
Compilers - a compiler creates an executable file for a program by translating a high-level language to machine-readable code
Interpreters - an interpreter translates and executes code line by line, then translates it into machine-readable code
Common misconception
High-level languages are always better than low-level languages because they are easier to use.
High-level languages are generally easier to learn and use. However, low-level languages offer more direct control over the computer's hardware, which can be essential for certain tasks like writing operating systems or device drivers.
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: High and low level languages, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: High and low level languages, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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