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PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES

The document provides an overview of computer programming languages, detailing their types including machine language, assembly language, high-level languages, scripting languages, and object-oriented languages. It discusses characteristics, examples, and the importance of programming languages in automation, problem-solving, and career opportunities. Additionally, it includes WAEC past questions and practice questions related to programming languages.

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3 views

PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES

The document provides an overview of computer programming languages, detailing their types including machine language, assembly language, high-level languages, scripting languages, and object-oriented languages. It discusses characteristics, examples, and the importance of programming languages in automation, problem-solving, and career opportunities. Additionally, it includes WAEC past questions and practice questions related to programming languages.

Uploaded by

odunsal5
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Lesson Note on Computer Programming Languages

Introduction

Computer programming languages are formal languages designed to communicate instructions to a


computer. These languages are used to create software, applications, and systems that operate on
computers and other digital devices.

Types of Programming Languages

Machine Language

The lowest-level programming language.

Consists of binary digits (0s and 1s).

Directly executed by the computer's CPU.

Example: 10110110 00001101.

Assembly Language

A low-level programming language.

Uses symbolic codes or mnemonics to represent machine-level instructions.

Requires an assembler to convert it into machine language.

Example: MOV AX, 1.

High-Level Languages

Easier to learn and use compared to low-level languages.

Requires a compiler or interpreter to translate into machine language.

Examples: Python, Java, C++.

Scripting Languages
Used to automate tasks or enhance the functionality of other programs.

Examples: JavaScript, PHP, Python.

Object-Oriented Languages

Based on the concept of objects, which combine data and methods.

Examples: Java, C#, Python.

Characteristics of Programming Languages

Simplicity: Easy to understand and use.

Portability: Programs can run on different platforms.

Efficiency: Produces fast and optimized code.

Readability: Easy to read and debug.

Error Handling: Provides mechanisms for handling errors effectively.

Examples of High-Level Programming Languages

Python: Used for web development, AI, and scientific computing.

Java: Popular for mobile and web applications.

C++: Commonly used in game development and system programming.

JavaScript: Mainly used for web development.

Importance of Programming Languages

Automation of Tasks: Reduces human effort.

Problem Solving: Enables solving complex problems efficiently.

Innovation: Drives technological advancements.

Career Opportunities: Opens doors to careers in software development, data analysis, etc.

WAEC Past Questions on Programming Languages

WAEC 2021:

Question: Define the term "programming language" and list three examples.
Answer:

A programming language is a formal language comprising instructions that produce various outputs
when executed by a computer.

Examples: Python, Java, C++.

WAEC 2019:

Question: State two differences between high-level and low-level programming languages.

Answer:

High-level languages are easier to read and understand, while low-level languages are machine-
oriented.

High-level languages require a compiler/interpreter, while low-level languages may require an


assembler.

WAEC 2020:

Question: Mention three advantages of using high-level programming languages.

Answer:

Easier to write and understand.

Portable across platforms.

Requires less knowledge of the underlying hardware.

WAEC 2022:

Question: List four features of object-oriented programming languages.

Answer:

Encapsulation.

Inheritance.

Polymorphism.
Abstraction.

WAEC 2018:

Question: Differentiate between a compiler and an interpreter.

Answer:

A compiler translates the entire program into machine language at once, while an interpreter translates
and executes line-by-line.

Practice Questions

Define "machine language" and explain its significance.

List four examples of high-level programming languages.

Compare and contrast assembly language and high-level language.

Explain the role of a compiler in programming.

This lesson provides a foundation for understanding programming languages and prepares students for
WAEC examinations.

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