GCSE Computer Science/High- and low-level languages

High and Low Level Computer Languages

Specification link Show understanding of the need for both high-level and low-level languages - 2016 CIE Syllabus p13

Computer Language Translators

Compilers and High Level Languages

Specification link Show understanding of the need for compilers when translating programs written in a high-level language - 2016 CIE Syllabus p13

Interpreters and Machine Code

Specification link Show understanding of the use of interpreters with high-level language programs - 2016 CIE Syllabus p13

Assemblers and Assembly Languages

Specification link Show understanding of the need for for assemblers when translating programs written in assembly language - 2016 CIE Syllabus p13

Lain wants to build a computer game. She decides on using an assembly language as it would offer the best performance. Give an explanation as to why she should consider using a higher level language [2]

Answer:

High level languages are easier to code than low level languages (1 mark) They are closer to English and the same output can be achieved in fewer lines of code (1 mark)

Accept any valid explanations on the advantages of high level languages relating to the context(processor specific, performance inst needed, complex problem)