Why?

To be able to choose the right language for the problem to be solved (job to be done)

To make it easier to learn new languages

To complete degree requirements

To make it easier to express programming concepts

To see what concepts there are that are not present in C++ and Java

To gain an appreciation for facilities in a higher level programming language

What makes something a programming language? F

What makes a programming language good? B

Optional feature of a language R

Manipulate data F

Has to have functions defined in it R

Produces output F

Accepts input F

Can be extended R

Simulate real world problem solution R

Translator

Allows you to write instructions for the machine to carry out

Requires specific syntax F

Has to be able to parse the statements in the language

Frustrates you when you can’t do it right

Easy to use

Has to be able to remember previous states

Has variables

Has to handle files

Reliable

Efficient

Doesn’t crash your system

Interact with other components of the machine

Has objects

Let you write short programs to accomplish big tasks

Control statements

Data structures

Easy to read B

Can create subroutines from existing stuff

Must be able to generate machine code

Must be able to generate executable machine code