A-LevelComputer ScienceSoftware development9618/12 · Oct/Nov 2025 · Q107 Marks

A programmer is developing a computer program.

(a)Explain how the programmer can first use an interpreter and then a compiler to develop the computer program. Interpreter Compiler[4]
(b)The programmer releases the program as Free Software. Describe what is meant by Free Software.[2]
(c)A user downloads the computer program from the internet. State what should be included as part of the download to make sure the program is authentic.[1]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2025). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

10(a) 1 mark per bullet point, max 4 marks Max 2 from each section.
Interpreter: Use an interpreter while writing/coding the program
to test / debug the partially completed program
because errors can be corrected and processing continue from where the execution stopped // errors can be corrected in real time // errors are identified one at a time
Compiler: Use the compiler after the program is complete
to create an executable file so source code not seen
Use the compiler to repeatedly test the same completed section without having to re-interpret every time
10(b) 1 mark per bullet point, max 2
The software is free of restrictions
The software is not necessarily free of charge
The source code comes with the program // A user can edit the source code to add functionality / suit their needs
Users can share the software with others
10(c) 1 mark for a correct answer
Digital Signature

On Oracle Prep you can write or photograph your own answer and have it marked by AI against this mark scheme, with feedback on what you missed.