A program can be written in a high-level language such as Python.
Describe one characteristic of a high-level programming language.
Mark scheme
Award up to two marks for a linked description such as:
- Statements are written using words/phrases that look like English or maths (1) so the code is easier to read/understand/write (1)
- One statement is translated into several machine code instructions (1) so programs are shorter to write than in a low-level language (1)
- High-level languages provide built-in data structures such as arrays/lists/records (1) so a collection of data items can be stored and accessed under one name (1)
Do not accept responses that only give a benefit or drawback, such as 'it is easier to learn', with no characteristic.
Do not accept 'it is easier than a low-level language' without saying what the characteristic is.
Example answers and how they were marked
Statements are written using words that look like English or maths (1) so the program is easier to read and understand (1).
Why: Characteristic of the statements (1) with a linked development (1).
It has built-in data structures such as arrays.
Why: A correct characteristic (1) but no development of what it allows the programmer to do.
It is easier to learn than a low-level language.
Why: Gives only a benefit compared with a low-level language; no characteristic of the language itself, so no mark.