Assignment 81 Instructions: Basics of Programming Languages – Python/Java/C++
Assessment Overview and Submission Requirements
This assignment on topic of Programming Languages represents the entire summative assessment for the module and must be approached as a comprehensive, analytical study rather than a collection of coding exercises. It accounts for 100% of the module grade.
Submissions must be uploaded via the Turnitin portal. Any other method of submission, including email, hard copy, or pen drive, will be considered non-compliant and will not be graded.
The assignment requires a manuscript length of 5,000 to 5,500 words, excluding title pages, references, figures, or appendices. Submissions falling outside this range may affect your evaluation. Only your Student Reference Number (SRN) should be included to ensure anonymity. Personal identifiers, including names, emails, or university IDs, must be omitted.
This assessment is scored out of 100 marks, with a minimum threshold of 50% for passing. All sources must be cited using the Harvard referencing system. Unreferenced content will be treated as plagiarism, and the assignment will be flagged in line with institutional policies.
AI tools may be used solely for proofreading, grammar checking, or structural suggestions, but all analysis, interpretation, and coding reasoning must be independently produced. A completed Assignment Cover Sheet must accompany your submission; otherwise, it may be deemed invalid.
Analytical Orientation and Intellectual Scope
The focus of this assignment is to examine core principles of programming languages, specifically Python, Java, and C++, and how they enable structured problem-solving, data manipulation, and software development in modern digital contexts.
You are expected to evaluate language features, application domains, and programming paradigms critically. This is not a simple comparative list; rather, you should integrate conceptual understanding with practical illustrations, demonstrating how each language’s design and functionality align with computational tasks.
The report should explore:
- Syntax and semantic foundations of each language
- Memory management and data structures
- Object-oriented vs procedural programming paradigms
- Common libraries, frameworks, or APIs relevant to each language
- Performance, scalability, and practical use cases
Your analysis should link programming language capabilities to real-world computational challenges across software engineering, data science, and systems development.
Learning Outcomes
Successful completion of this assignment should demonstrate your ability to:
- Identify and articulate fundamental programming constructs across Python, Java, and C++
- Compare and contrast programming paradigms and their practical implications
- Evaluate language-specific strengths and weaknesses using evidence from technical sources
- Apply conceptual insights to code-oriented problem scenarios
- Develop structured recommendations for language selection based on task requirements
These outcomes align with both theoretical and applied learning objectives in US undergraduate and postgraduate computing curricula.
Structural Composition
This report (Programming Languages) should be logically organized but does not require a conventional introduction–body–conclusion format. Instead, sections should flow organically, reflecting analytical reasoning and interconnectedness between language concepts, computational challenges, and practical application.
Preliminary Pages
Include:
- Declaration of Originality
- Title Page
- Table of Contents
- List of Figures/Tables (if applicable)
These are excluded from the word count but are essential for professional presentation.
Condensed Overview for Decision-Makers
Executive Synopsis
Provide a high-level overview of your analysis (approx. 500 words) that captures:
- Key distinctions between Python, Java, and C++
- The rationale for examining these languages in parallel
- Principal findings regarding applicability, efficiency, and suitability
- Strategic recommendations for language use in various programming contexts
This section is best written after completing the full analysis to ensure alignment with your evidence-based findings.
Programming Constructs and Syntax Comparison
Language Fundamentals
This section examines the building blocks of each language:
- Variables, constants, and data types
- Control structures (loops, conditional statements)
- Functions/methods, classes, and modularity
- Exception handling and debugging practices
Illustrate concepts with concise examples, highlighting how syntax affects readability, maintainability, and error-proneness.
Paradigms and Conceptual Approaches
Procedural, Object-Oriented, and Hybrid Models
Evaluate each language’s paradigm orientation:
- Python: high-level, versatile, multi-paradigm approach
- Java: strongly object-oriented, class-based structure
- C++: object-oriented with low-level memory access and procedural elements
Discuss how these paradigms influence program structure, scalability, and suitability for different problem domains.
Memory Management, Performance, and Optimization
Efficiency Considerations
Analyze language-specific approaches to:
- Dynamic vs static memory allocation
- Garbage collection and manual memory management
- Execution speed, compilation vs interpretation, and performance trade-offs
Incorporate examples or case studies demonstrating efficiency implications in real-world applications.
Libraries, Frameworks, and Ecosystem Integration
Practical Utility
Each programming languages benefits from distinct libraries and frameworks. Discuss how these expand functionality, for example:
- Python: NumPy, Pandas, TensorFlow
- Java: Spring Framework, JavaFX
- C++: STL, Boost, Qt
Explain how libraries influence language adoption for specific domains such as data analysis, enterprise applications, or system programming.
Risk, Limitations, and Development Challenges
Technical and Operational Constraints
Critically evaluate challenges associated with each language:
- Python: slower execution, dynamic typing limitations
- Java: verbose syntax, JVM dependency
- C++: complexity, memory safety concerns
Connect these challenges to practical project scenarios, considering team skill levels, project scope, and long-term maintenance requirements.
Application Scenarios and Case Studies
Contextual Implementation
Provide realistic application scenarios for each language:
- Python: rapid prototyping, data science, AI/ML
- Java: enterprise systems, cross-platform applications
- C++: game development, high-performance computing
Discuss why language choice affects development strategy, maintainability, and resource allocation.
Recommendations for Programming Strategy
Evidence-Based Guidance
Synthesize findings into actionable guidance for selecting a programming language based on:
- Task complexity and computational requirements
- Development team expertise
- Integration with existing systems or libraries
- Performance and efficiency priorities
Ensure recommendations are practical and supported by evidence, avoiding generic prescriptions.
Integrative Reflection
Holistic Insights
This final section should connect technical understanding to broader educational and professional implications. Discuss how knowledge of multiple languages supports:
- Cross-platform development competence
- Flexibility in problem-solving
- Strategic decision-making in software design
References and Academic Standards
- Use Harvard referencing consistently
- Incorporate a broad spectrum of sources: academic papers, textbooks, technical documentation, industry reports
- Tables, code snippets, or figures must be clearly labeled and cited appropriately
Professional presentation, page numbering, and consistent formatting are required.
Wordcount Allocation
- Executive Synopsis – 500 words
Provides a high-level overview aimed at decision-makers.
- Programming Constructs – 700 words
Covers syntax, variables, control structures, and modularity.
- Paradigms and Conceptual Approaches – 600 words
Discusses object-oriented, procedural, and hybrid programming models.
- Memory Management & Performance – 600 words
Examines efficiency, garbage collection, and compilation considerations.
- Libraries, Frameworks & Ecosystem – 500 words
Highlights key libraries, frameworks, and their domain-specific applicability.
- Risks, Limitations & Challenges – 600 words
Analyzes practical constraints and technical trade-offs.
- Application Scenarios & Case Studies – 700 words
Provides real-world examples and context-specific analysis.
- Recommendations – 600 words
Offers evidence-based guidance for programming language selection.
- Integrative Reflection – 400 words
Presents holistic insights and professional relevance.
Total Word Count: 5,500 words
This structure encourages deep conceptual analysis, practical illustration, and critical reflection rather than simple descriptive reporting.