Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Computer Science
Lesson Topic: Show understanding of how an interpreter can execute programs without producing a translated version
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the interpreter’s execution cycle (lexical analysis, parsing, immediate execution) for each source line.
  • Compare interpreter behavior with compiled translation regarding output, speed, and development cycle.
  • Analyse the performance trade‑offs of interpreting versus compiling using the given runtime formula.
  • Apply the interpreter loop concept to a simple pseudocode example.
  • Evaluate scenarios where an interpreter is preferred (scripting, REPL, rapid prototyping).
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Slides outlining interpreter steps
  • Sample source code snippets (e.g., Python)
  • Laptop computers with an interpreter installed (e.g., Python)
  • Worksheet with fill‑in tables for comparison
  • Sticky notes for quick exit tickets
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demo of a Python REPL executing a line of code instantly. Ask students how this differs from running a compiled program they have seen before. Explain that today they will understand why an interpreter can run programs without creating a separate executable and what success looks like.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students answer a short question on differences between interpreters and compilers on a sticky note.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Present the interpreter execution cycle using slides and the flow diagram.
  3. Guided walk‑through (15'): Step‑by‑step analysis of the provided pseudocode loop; students annotate each phase.
  4. Pair programming activity (15'): Teams modify a simple script and observe immediate feedback in the interpreter, recording observations.
  5. Comparison chart (10'): Complete a side‑by‑side table contrasting interpreter vs compiler characteristics.
  6. Check for understanding (5'): Quick quiz (Kahoot or show of hands) on key concepts.
Conclusion:
Summarise that an interpreter repeatedly performs lexical analysis, parsing, and execution, avoiding a separate translated file, which gives rapid feedback but slower runtime. For the exit ticket, students write one advantage and one limitation of interpreters. Assign homework to read a short article on just‑in‑time compilation and prepare a brief reflection.