Basics of Programming Languages: Python/Java/C++
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 … Read more