CSC9YA (Language Implementation) Syllabus

Lecturers

• Prof. K. J. Turner

Prerequisites

• CSC9P5 (general understanding of system design principles)

Learning Outcomes

• the principles behind compilers, translators and interpreters
• how to parse typical computer languages
• how to generate object code for stack machines and register machines
• how to handle static and dynamic data allocation
• how to write a compiler using a typical compiler-compiler (Antlr)
• to demonstrate the ability to apply theory and techniques to unseen problems without references to notes, to work independently, and to work under a time constraint
• transferable skills in:
• understanding of programming language design and support
• construction of translators and compilers

Contents (15 lectures - half module)

• Parsing: translator concepts, parsing techniques
• Code Generation: code skeletons, stack and register machines, register usage, basic type checking
• Code Optimisation: sub-optimisation, true optimisation
• Storage Management: run-time storage allocation, heap storage

Requirement

In order to pass this module you must submit all items of coursework and attend the examination.

In this module the prescribed classes are the tutorials and practicals. Failure to attend at least two-thirds of prescribed classes will result in the module grade being capped at a maximum of 3C for that module, unless good cause for missing those classes can be shown. Responsibility for showing good cause lies with the student.

Non-submission of any single item of assessed coursework will result in the award of No Grade for the module as a whole. If you cannot meet the assignment hand-in deadline and have good cause, please see the coordinator to explain your situation and ask for an extension. Coursework will be accepted up to five days after the hand-in deadline (or expiry of any agreed extension) but the grade will be lowered by one grade point per day or part thereof. After five days the work will be deemed a non-submission and will receive No Grade.

A student who is unable to attend the main examination must apply to the Student Programmes Office for a deferred examination. If this is not granted, the examiners may allow a repeat examination.

Only students who obtain an overall 4 grade following the main examination are eligible for a repeat examination. The grade awarded following a repeat examination is capped at 3C.

Assessment

• assignment (code generation, 40%)
• examination (60%)

Textbooks

• Compilers: Principles, Techniques, and Tools, A. V. Aho, M. S. Lam, R. Sethi and J. D. Ullman, Addison-Wesley, second edition, 2007, ISBN 978-0-32148-681-3 (recommended/background)
• Compilers, A. V. Aho, R. Sethi and J. D. Ullman, Addison-Wesley, 1986, first edition, ISBN 0-201-10194-7 (background)

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