Mark Scheme

Section A — Structured Questions (48 marks)

Question 1

(a) State what is meant by CAD [1]

• Computer-Aided Design
• Accept: using computer software to create/design products
• Accept: software that allows designs to be created on computer
• Reject: just "design on computer" without reference to software/system

(b) Describe two benefits of using CAD [4]

Award 1 mark for each benefit identified (max 2) + 1 mark for appropriate description of each (max 2)

Benefits may include:

• Easy to make changes/modifications [1] without having to redraw the entire design [1]
• Designs can be saved/stored electronically [1] allowing easy retrieval and version control/sharing with others [1]
• Designs can be viewed in 3D/from different angles [1] helping to visualize the final product before manufacture [1]
• Components from a library can be reused [1] saving time in the design process [1]
• Designs can be tested/simulated [1] to check they work before making physical prototypes [1]
• More accurate/precise measurements [1] reducing errors in the final product [1]
• Accept: other valid benefits with appropriate descriptions

(c) Explain how CAD and CAM work together [3]

• The CAD software creates a design/file [1]
• This file/design data is transferred/sent to the CAM system [1]
• The CAM system uses this data to control the machinery/cutting equipment [1]
• Accept: the file format may need conversion/is often in a standard format
• Accept: the CAM system interprets the measurements/coordinates from the CAD file

(d) Two types of sensor and what each monitors [4]

Award 1 mark for each sensor type (max 2) + 1 mark for appropriate description of what it monitors (max 2)

Sensors may include:

• Pressure sensor [1] monitors/detects the pressure applied by cutting blade/ensures correct cutting pressure [1]
• Temperature sensor [1] monitors temperature of cutting blade/motor to prevent overheating [1]
• Proximity/infrared sensor [1] detects position of fabric/ensures fabric is correctly positioned before cutting [1]
• Light sensor [1] detects edges of fabric/ensures accurate cutting alignment [1]
• Motion/speed sensor [1] monitors the speed of the cutting mechanism/conveyor belt [1]
• Acoustic/sound sensor [1] detects abnormal sounds indicating equipment malfunction [1]
• Accept: other appropriate sensors with correct monitoring function

Total for Question 1: 12 marks

Question 2

(a) Identify primary key in BOOKS table [1]

• BookID [1]

(b) Identify foreign key in LOANS table [1]

• BookID [1]

(c) Write a query [3]

Award marks for correct query components:

• Selects from BOOKS table [1]
• Includes condition Category = "ICT" / Category = ICT [1]
• Includes condition Available = "Yes" / Available = Yes [1]

Accept examples:

• SELECT * FROM BOOKS WHERE Category = "ICT" AND Available = "Yes"
• SEARCH BOOKS FOR Category = "ICT" AND Available = "Yes"
• Any correct SQL, QBE or natural language query that includes both conditions

Reject: queries that don't include both conditions

(d) Explain why database better than spreadsheet [3]

Points may include:

• Database can handle multiple related tables [1] spreadsheet would require multiple sheets that are harder to link [1]
• Database prevents data redundancy/duplication [1] same book information doesn't need to be entered multiple times [1]
• Database maintains referential integrity [1] ensures that loans can only reference books that exist [1]
• Database allows multiple users to access simultaneously [1] without conflicts/with proper access control [1]
• Database provides better searching/querying facilities [1] for complex searches across multiple tables [1]
• Award max 3 marks for any valid points

(e) Describe how barcode system works for borrowing [3]

• Student's library card barcode is scanned [1]
• Book's barcode is scanned [1]
• System records the loan/updates database showing book is borrowed [1]
• Accept: system displays student details for verification
• Accept: system calculates/displays due date
• Accept: receipt/confirmation is printed

Total for Question 2: 11 marks

Question 3

(a) Three requirements of Data Protection Act [3]

Award 1 mark each for three requirements:

• Data must be kept secure/protected from unauthorized access [1]
• Data must be accurate and up-to-date [1]
• Data must only be used for the specified purpose [1]
• Data must not be kept longer than necessary [1]
• Data must be obtained fairly and lawfully [1]
• Data must be adequate, relevant and not excessive [1]
• Award any 3 valid requirements

(b) Two consequences of data breach [4]

Award 1 mark for each consequence (max 2) + 1 mark for development (max 2)

• Company could be fined by regulatory authorities/ICO [1] potentially millions of pounds depending on severity [1]
• Loss of customer trust/reputation damage [1] leading to loss of business/customers moving to competitors [1]
• Legal action from affected customers [1] requiring compensation payments [1]
• Cost of implementing improved security [1] and notifying affected customers [1]
• Share price may fall [1] affecting company value/investor confidence [1]
• Accept: other valid consequences with development

(c) Explain two-factor authentication [4]

Explanation of how it works:

• Requires two different types of authentication/verification [1]
• First factor is typically password/something you know [1]
• Second factor is often a code sent to mobile phone/email/something you have [1]
• Accept: biometric as second factor
• Accept: security token/key as second factor

Why more secure:

• Hacker would need to compromise both factors [1]
• If password is stolen, account is still protected [1]
• Second factor is typically time-limited [1]
• Award max 4 marks total

(d)(i) State what is meant by encryption [1]

• Converting data into a code/unreadable form [1]
• Accept: scrambling data using an algorithm/key
• Reject: just "making data secure" without reference to conversion

(d)(ii) Difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption [3]

Symmetric encryption:

• Uses the same key for encryption and decryption [1]
• Accept: faster/simpler
• Accept: key must be shared securely between parties

Asymmetric encryption:

• Uses different keys for encryption and decryption/uses public and private key pair [1]
• Public key encrypts, private key decrypts [1]
• Accept: more secure for transmitting keys
• Accept: slower/more complex

Total for Question 3: 15 marks

Question 4

(a)(i) Difference between analogue and digital data [2]

Analogue:

• Continuous data/can take any value within a range [1]

Digital:

• Discrete data/can only take specific values [1]

Accept: analogue is continuously changing, digital has distinct values Accept: examples such as "analogue like temperature varying smoothly, digital like on/off states"

(a)(ii) Device to convert analogue to digital [1]

• Analogue-to-Digital Converter [1]
• Accept: ADC
• Reject: just "converter" without being specific

(b)(i) State what is meant by validation [1]

• Automatic check performed by computer to ensure data is reasonable/sensible/within acceptable limits [1]
• Accept: checking data meets certain rules/criteria
• Reject: checking data is correct (this is verification)

(b)(ii) Two validation checks for temperature data [4]

Award 1 mark for each check type (max 2) + 1 mark for description of how it applies to temperature (max 2)

• Range check [1] ensures temperature is between acceptable values e.g., -50°C to 50°C [1]
• Presence check [1] ensures temperature data has been received/is not missing [1]
• Type check [1] ensures data is numeric/in correct format [1]
• Format check [1] ensures temperature is in expected format e.g., includes decimal places/units [1]
• Consistency check [1] compares with neighboring sensors/previous readings to detect anomalies [1]

(c) Difference between validation and verification [2]

Validation:

• Checks data is reasonable/sensible [1]

Verification:

• Checks data has been accurately entered/copied correctly [1]

Accept: validation is automatic, verification often involves human checking Accept: validation doesn't guarantee correctness, verification confirms accuracy of transfer

(d) Batch processing characteristics and suitability [4]

Characteristics:

• Data is collected over a period of time [1]
• All data is processed together at a specific time [1]
• No user interaction during processing [1]
• Processing typically occurs at off-peak times [1]

Suitability for weather forecasts:

• Weather data can be collected throughout the day [1]
• Forecasts don't need to be updated constantly/daily forecast is sufficient [1]
• Processing can occur overnight when system load is low [1]
• All sensor data can be analyzed together for accuracy [1]

Award max 4 marks with at least 2 marks on characteristics and at least 1 mark on suitability

Total for Question 4: 10 marks

Question 5

(a)(i) Draw bus topology diagram [2]

Award marks for:

• Four computers/devices shown [1]
• Connected to a single main cable/backbone with terminators at each end [1]

Accept: clearly labelled diagram with computers, cable, and terminators identified

(a)(ii) One advantage and one disadvantage of bus topology [4]

Advantage (max 2 marks):

• Less cable required/cheaper to install [1] than star topology/saves on costs [1]
• Easy to add new devices [1] by connecting to the main cable [1]
• Accept: suitable for small networks

Disadvantage (max 2 marks):

• If main cable fails, entire network fails [1] all devices lose connection [1]
• Performance degrades with more devices [1] due to data collisions/increased traffic [1]
• Difficult to identify faults/troubleshoot [1] as problem could be anywhere on the cable [1]
• Limited cable length [1] restricts network size [1]

(b) Compare star with bus topology [4]

Reliability:

• Star topology more reliable [1] because if one cable fails only that device is affected/network continues functioning [1]
• Accept: bus topology less reliable because single cable failure affects entire network

Cost:

• Star topology more expensive [1] requires more cable/requires central hub or switch [1]
• Accept: bus topology cheaper as requires less cabling/no hub needed

Award max 4 marks ensuring both reliability and cost are addressed

(c) Two advantages and one disadvantage of wireless [3]

Advantages (max 2 marks):

• Devices can be moved easily/mobile [1]
• No cables needed/reduces cable clutter [1]
• Easier to add new devices [1]
• Users can connect from anywhere within range [1]
• Award max 2

Disadvantage (max 1 mark):

• Less secure than wired/more vulnerable to hacking [1]
• Slower data transmission speeds [1]
• Signal can be affected by walls/obstacles/interference [1]
• Limited range [1]
• Award 1

Total for Question 5: 10 marks

Section B — Extended Response (32 marks)

Question 6 — Online patient records system [15 marks]

Level 3 (11–15 marks): A comprehensive discussion that addresses all aspects of the question. Clear analysis of both benefits and problems. Security measures are explained in detail with appropriate technical terminology. A well-reasoned conclusion is presented that weighs benefits against problems. Multiple stakeholder perspectives considered. Uses technical terminology accurately throughout.

Level 2 (6–10 marks): A reasonable discussion covering most aspects of the question. Some benefits and problems are described. Security measures are mentioned but may lack detail. Conclusion is present but may be underdeveloped or partially justified. Some technical terminology used correctly. May focus more on one aspect than others.

Level 1 (1–5 marks): A limited discussion that addresses only some aspects of the question. Benefits or problems listed with minimal explanation. Security measures may be absent or very basic. Conclusion weak or missing. Limited use of technical terminology or terminology used incorrectly. Lacks balance in considering different perspectives.

[0 marks]: No creditable content.

Indicative content (not prescriptive):

Benefits to patients:

• Convenient access from home/24-hour access
• Can check test results without traveling to hospital
• Can book appointments at any time
• Can request prescription renewals easily
• Better understanding of their own health through access to records
• Can share records with other healthcare providers

Benefits to hospital:

• Reduced administrative workload/fewer phone calls
• Lower costs from reduced staffing needs
• More efficient appointment booking system
• Reduced waiting times for patients
• Improved patient satisfaction
• Better resource allocation

Problems/risks:

• Security risk of unauthorized access to sensitive medical data
• Patients may not understand medical terminology/misinterpret results
• Digital divide excludes patients without internet access/computer skills
• Risk of system downtime preventing access
• Hacking could expose confidential information
• Identity theft if login credentials stolen
• Breach of Data Protection Act if security inadequate

Measures to reduce risks:

• Two-factor authentication for login
• Encryption of data in transit and storage
• Regular security audits/penetration testing
• Automatic logout after period of inactivity
• User access logs to monitor suspicious activity
• Clear privacy policies and user education
• Firewalls and intrusion detection systems
• Alternative access methods maintained (phone, in-person)
• Explanatory notes for medical terminology

Conclusion should evaluate whether benefits outweigh problems, considering:

• Security measures can significantly reduce risks
• Benefits to patient care and efficiency
• Need to maintain alternative access methods
• Overall judgment on implementation

Question 7 — Autonomous vehicles evaluation [17 marks]

Level 3 (12–17 marks): A thorough evaluation covering social, economic, and ethical impacts in depth. Multiple perspectives considered with specific examples. Clear understanding of the technology and its implications. Ethical issues explored with sophistication. Conclusion is well-justified, nuanced, and draws on points made throughout the answer. Excellent use of technical terminology. Shows critical thinking about complex issues.

Level 2 (7–11 marks): A sound evaluation covering social, economic, and ethical impacts with reasonable detail. Some different perspectives considered. Understanding of technology and implications shown but may lack depth in places. Ethical issues addressed but may be simplistic. Conclusion is justified but may be one-sided or lack full development. Generally correct use of technical terminology. Some evidence of critical thinking.

Level 1 (1–6 marks): A limited evaluation with superficial coverage of impacts. May focus on only one or two impact types. Limited perspectives considered. Basic understanding of technology shown. Ethical issues mentioned briefly or not at all. Conclusion weak, missing, or simply stated without justification. Limited technical terminology or used incorrectly. Mainly descriptive rather than evaluative.

[0 marks]: No creditable content.

Indicative content (not prescriptive):

Social impacts:

• Improved safety/reduced accidents caused by human error (drink driving, distraction, tiredness)
• Increased independence for elderly/disabled/people unable to drive
• Change to lifestyle — productive use of travel time
• Reduced stress from driving
• Concerns about technology reliability in all conditions
• Privacy concerns from data collection about journeys
• Trust issues with AI making life-or-death decisions
• Impact on driving as a skill/cultural changes
• Accessibility issues for different socioeconomic groups

Economic impacts:

• Job losses for professional drivers (taxi, truck, delivery drivers)
• New jobs created in technology development/maintenance
• Reduced costs of vehicle insurance
• Changes to insurance industry business model
• Reduced costs from fewer accidents
• More efficient fuel consumption
• High initial costs of vehicles
• Investment needed in infrastructure (smart roads, 5G networks)
• Impact on automotive industry/traditional car manufacturing
• Reduced need for parking spaces in city centers

Ethical issues:

• Programming decisions in unavoidable accident scenarios (trolley problem)
• Who is responsible when accidents occur (manufacturer, owner, programmer)
• Fairness in algorithmic decision-making
• Should vehicles prioritize occupant safety over pedestrians
• Access equality — will autonomous vehicles only be available to wealthy
• Data privacy and ownership of journey information
• Consent for passengers in AI-controlled vehicles
• Transparency of AI decision-making processes
• Testing safety on public roads exposes others to risk

Conclusion should address whether autonomous vehicles should be allowed, considering:

• Potential to save lives outweighs concerns
• Or: technology not yet mature enough/ethical issues unresolved
• Need for regulatory framework before implementation
• Gradual introduction with human oversight
• Balance between innovation and public safety
• Overall justified position based on evaluation

Sample Answers with Examiner Commentary

Question 6 — Sample Answers

Grade A* (high distinction) answer

The introduction of an online patient records system offers significant benefits but also presents serious risks that must be carefully managed.

For patients, the main benefit is convenience and accessibility. They can access their medical records 24 hours a day from home, which is particularly valuable for people with mobility issues or those living far from the hospital. Patients can check test results without having to wait for appointments or telephone calls, which reduces anxiety and allows them to be more informed about their health. The ability to book appointments online saves time and means patients don't have to call during limited reception hours. Additionally, patients can request prescription renewals through the system, making it easier to manage chronic conditions.

The hospital would also benefit significantly. Administrative costs would be reduced because fewer staff would be needed to answer phone calls and manage appointment bookings. The system could automatically send reminders about appointments, reducing missed appointments and improving resource utilization. Patients being able to access their own records reduces the workload on medical staff who currently have to explain results over the phone or in person. The system could also improve healthcare outcomes because patients with better access to their records may be more engaged in managing their health.

However, there are substantial problems and risks. The most serious is security — patient medical records contain highly sensitive personal information protected by the Data Protection Act. If hackers gained access to the system, they could steal personal information, leading to identity theft or blackmail. Patients may not understand complex medical terminology and could misinterpret test results, causing unnecessary worry or leading them to make poor health decisions without consulting medical professionals. There is also a digital divide issue — elderly patients or those without internet access or computer skills would be excluded from using the system, potentially creating inequality in access to healthcare services.

Several measures could reduce these risks. The hospital should implement two-factor authentication requiring patients to enter both a password and a code sent to their mobile phone, making unauthorized access much more difficult. All data transmitted between the patient's computer and the hospital system should be encrypted using strong encryption protocols such as HTTPS/TLS, preventing interception of sensitive information. The hospital should conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities before hackers can exploit them. Access logs should track who accesses each record and when, allowing suspicious activity to be detected. To address the problem of misinterpretation, the system could provide explanatory notes alongside test results written in plain language, and patients could be encouraged to contact their doctor if they have concerns. The hospital must maintain alternative access methods such as telephone booking and in-person appointments for those who cannot use online systems.

In conclusion, the benefits of an online patient records system outweigh the problems, provided appropriate security measures are implemented. The convenience for patients and efficiency gains for the hospital are substantial. While security risks are serious, modern security technologies can reduce them to acceptable levels. The digital divide issue can be addressed by maintaining traditional access methods alongside the online system. Overall, the hospital should implement the online system but must invest adequately in security and continue to offer alternatives for those who cannot use it.

Mark: 15/15

Examiner commentary: This is an exemplary response that demonstrates comprehensive understanding and sophisticated analysis. The answer systematically addresses all required elements: benefits to both patients and hospital with specific examples, detailed exploration of problems and risks including technical aspects, thorough explanation of security measures using correct technical terminology (two-factor authentication, encryption, HTTPS/TLS, penetration testing), and a well-reasoned conclusion that weighs benefits against problems. The response shows excellent use of technical vocabulary, clear structure, and critical evaluation. Multiple stakeholder perspectives are considered, and the candidate demonstrates understanding of both technological and social implications.

Grade C (pass) answer

An online patient records system would have some good benefits but also some problems.

The benefits for patients are that they can access their records from home which is more convenient. They don't have to travel to the hospital to find out test results. They can also book appointments online which is easier than phoning. Patients can also order their prescriptions online.

For the hospital, there would be less work for the staff because they wouldn't have to answer so many phone calls. This would save money. The system would be more efficient because appointments could be booked automatically.

The main problems are security. Hackers could break into the system and steal the patient records. This would be very bad because medical records are private. Patients might also not understand their medical records properly and get worried about things that aren't serious. Some older people might not be able to use computers so they couldn't access the system.

To reduce the risks, the hospital could use passwords to protect the system. They could also use encryption to protect the data. The hospital should have firewalls to stop hackers. They could have security software installed.

In conclusion, I think the benefits are greater than the problems. The system would be very convenient for patients and save the hospital money. If they use good security then the problems can be reduced. The hospital should make sure they have security measures in place before they launch the system.

Mark: 8/15

Examiner commentary: This response demonstrates sound understanding of the topic and addresses most required elements, achieving a mid-level grade. Strengths include identification of relevant benefits for both stakeholders, recognition of key problems (security, user understanding, digital divide), and mention of appropriate security measures. The conclusion attempts to evaluate benefits versus problems. However, the answer lacks the depth and sophistication of a top-band response. Security measures are mentioned but not explained in detail (e.g., "use passwords" without specifying two-factor authentication or strong password policies). Technical terminology is limited and sometimes vague ("security software" is not specific). The discussion would benefit from more specific examples and deeper analysis of how measures would actually reduce risks.

Grade E (near miss) answer

An online patient records system would be good for patients because they can look at their records on the computer. This means they don't have to go to the hospital all the time. It would save time.

The hospital would save money because they wouldn't need as many staff. Everything would be done on the computer so it would be faster.

The problems are that hackers could hack into the system and look at people's medical information. This is bad because it is private. Also some people don't have computers so they couldn't use it.

To stop hackers they need to have security on the computer. They should use anti-virus software to protect against viruses. They need to make sure the system is safe.

I think it is a good idea to have an online system because it is more modern and easier to use. Technology is better than old-fashioned ways of doing things.

Mark: 4/15

Examiner commentary: This response shows basic awareness of the topic but lacks the development and technical understanding required for higher marks. The candidate identifies some relevant points (convenience, cost savings, security risks, digital divide) but provides minimal explanation or detail. A key weakness is the confusion between computer security concepts — anti-virus software protects against malware but would not prevent unauthorized access to online records; the candidate needed to discuss authentication, encryption, and access controls. The answer shows limited use of technical terminology and does not adequately explain how security measures would reduce specific risks. The conclusion is simplistic and unsupported by the preceding discussion. To improve, the candidate should: explain points in more detail with specific examples, use correct technical terminology appropriately, distinguish between different types of security measures and their purposes, and develop a conclusion that explicitly weighs benefits against problems based on the analysis provided.

Question 7 — Sample Answers

Grade A* (high distinction) answer

The introduction of autonomous vehicles would have profound impacts across multiple dimensions of society. While the technology offers significant potential benefits, particularly in safety, there are also substantial challenges and ethical concerns that must be addressed.

From a social perspective, the most compelling argument for autonomous vehicles is improved road safety. Statistics show that over 90% of traffic accidents are caused by human error, including drink-driving, distraction, fatigue, and poor judgment. Autonomous vehicles, equipped with sensors, GPS, and AI systems that never get tired or distracted, could dramatically reduce accidents and save thousands of lives annually. This represents a major social benefit. Furthermore, autonomous vehicles would provide independence to people currently unable to drive, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and those too young to hold a license. This could significantly improve quality of life and social inclusion for these groups. Travel time could also become productive time, as passengers could work, read, or rest during journeys rather than concentrating on driving, potentially reducing stress and improving work-life balance.

However, there are serious social concerns. The technology may not be reliable in all conditions — sensors may struggle in heavy rain, snow, or fog, and the AI may not be able to handle all unexpected situations that human drivers navigate instinctively. There are also privacy implications, as autonomous vehicles would collect extensive data about people's movements and travel patterns, raising questions about who owns this data and how it might be used. Additionally, there is a fundamental trust issue — many people may be uncomfortable placing their lives in the control of an AI system, particularly given occasional high-profile failures of autonomous technology during testing.

The economic impacts are equally significant but mixed. The most obvious negative impact would be large-scale job losses in the transport sector. Professional drivers — including taxi drivers, lorry drivers, and delivery drivers — could face unemployment as their roles are automated. In the UK alone, hundreds of thousands of people work in driving occupations, and the social cost of such widespread job losses would be substantial, requiring investment in retraining programs. The insurance industry would also face disruption, as the shift in liability from driver to manufacturer would fundamentally change the business model.

On the positive side, there would be significant economic benefits. Autonomous vehicles could reduce costs associated with traffic accidents, which currently run into billions of pounds annually in medical treatment, vehicle damage, and lost productivity. More efficient driving patterns could reduce fuel consumption and decrease traffic congestion, saving time and money. New industries would develop around the technology, creating jobs in software development, vehicle maintenance, and infrastructure development. The automotive manufacturing sector would require transformation but would continue to employ people in new roles.

The ethical issues surrounding autonomous vehicles are perhaps the most challenging. The "trolley problem" presents a genuine dilemma — if an accident is unavoidable, should the vehicle prioritize the safety of its occupants or pedestrians? How should such decisions be programmed, and who decides the ethical framework? There is also the question of accountability — when an autonomous vehicle is involved in an accident, determining whether the manufacturer, software developer, vehicle owner, or maintenance provider is responsible becomes complex. This has implications for insurance and legal frameworks that have not yet been resolved.

Testing autonomous vehicles on public roads also raises ethical concerns, as it exposes other road users to potential risks from experimental technology without their consent. There are questions about fairness and access — initially, autonomous vehicles will likely be expensive, meaning only wealthy individuals can benefit from the technology, potentially increasing social inequality. Data privacy and algorithmic bias are further concerns; if the AI systems are trained on biased datasets, they might make decisions that discriminate against certain groups.

Regarding whether autonomous vehicles should be allowed on public roads, this is not a simple yes-or-no question. The potential to prevent the majority of traffic accidents and save lives is a powerful argument in favor. However, the technology must be proven reliable in all conditions before widespread deployment. A phased approach seems most appropriate: autonomous vehicles should be allowed, but initially with restrictions such as requiring a human driver ready to take control, limiting operation to specific geographic areas or road types, and maintaining lower speed limits. A comprehensive regulatory framework must be developed first, establishing clear liability rules, safety standards, and ethical guidelines for AI decision-making. Manufacturers should be required to demonstrate through extensive testing that their vehicles meet stringent safety requirements.

The job losses in the transport sector are a serious concern, but history shows that technological advances, while disruptive in the short term, generally create new opportunities. Governments and industry must work together to provide transition support and retraining. The ethical issues, while complex, are not insurmountable — society regularly makes difficult decisions about acceptable risk and responsibility in other contexts.

In conclusion, autonomous vehicles should be allowed on public roads, but implementation must be gradual, carefully regulated, and accompanied by measures to address the social and economic impacts. The potential to save lives and improve mobility for vulnerable groups represents a significant benefit to society. While job losses and ethical dilemmas are serious concerns, they can be managed through appropriate policies. The technology should proceed, but with proper safeguards, transparency in AI decision-making, and ongoing monitoring to ensure safety and address problems as they emerge. The benefits, particularly in terms of safety, have the potential to outweigh the problems, provided implementation is responsible and thoroughly regulated.

Mark: 17/17

Examiner commentary: This is an outstanding response that demonstrates sophisticated analysis and critical thinking. The candidate systematically evaluates social, economic, and ethical impacts with substantial depth, using specific examples throughout. The discussion shows nuanced understanding of complex issues, acknowledging both benefits and problems without oversimplification. Technical terminology is used accurately and appropriately (sensors, GPS, AI, algorithmic bias). The ethical dimension is explored with particular sophistication, addressing the trolley problem, accountability, consent, and fairness. The conclusion is exceptionally well-developed, presenting a nuanced position (gradual implementation with safeguards) that draws directly on the analysis provided. Multiple stakeholder perspectives are considered, and the candidate demonstrates ability to weigh competing interests and make a reasoned judgment. This response exemplifies the critical evaluation skills expected at the highest level.

Grade C (pass) answer

Autonomous vehicles use artificial intelligence and sensors to drive without human control. They have advantages and disadvantages for society.

The social impacts include improved safety. Most car accidents are caused by human error like drunk driving or not paying attention. Autonomous vehicles wouldn't have these problems so there would be fewer accidents. This would save lives. People who can't drive like elderly people or disabled people would be able to travel independently. This would be good for them because they wouldn't have to rely on other people. People could also do other things while traveling instead of driving, like work or use their phone.

However, the technology might not work properly in all weather conditions. Heavy rain or snow might affect the sensors. People might not trust the technology and might be worried about traveling in a car with no human driver. There are also privacy concerns because the cars would collect data about where people go.

The economic impacts include job losses. Many people work as taxi drivers, truck drivers, and delivery drivers. If autonomous vehicles replace them, these people would lose their jobs. This would be bad for the economy and the people who lose their jobs would have to find new work. The insurance industry would also be affected because if there are fewer accidents there would be less need for insurance.

On the positive side, autonomous vehicles could save money by reducing accidents. Accidents cost a lot of money in repairs and medical treatment. The vehicles might also use less fuel because they would drive more efficiently. New jobs would be created in making and maintaining the vehicles.

The ethical issues are about who is responsible when there is an accident. If an autonomous vehicle crashes, it's not clear if the manufacturer or the owner is responsible. There is also the problem of what the car should do if an accident is unavoidable. Should it protect the passengers or pedestrians? This is difficult to decide.

Another ethical issue is that autonomous vehicles might only be available to rich people at first because they will be expensive. This isn't fair because only some people would get the benefits.

I think autonomous vehicles should be allowed on roads because they could prevent many accidents and save lives. However, there should be rules about how they are used and they should be tested thoroughly to make sure they are safe. The problem of job losses is serious but new technology always causes some jobs to disappear and creates new ones. The government should help people who lose their jobs to retrain.

In conclusion, the benefits of autonomous vehicles are greater than the problems. Saving lives is very important and autonomous vehicles could do this. The ethical issues need to be solved but they shouldn't stop the technology from being used. Autonomous vehicles should be allowed but with proper safety regulations.

Mark: 9/17

Examiner commentary: This response demonstrates sound understanding and covers all three required impact areas (social, economic, ethical) with reasonable competence. The candidate identifies relevant points in each category and shows awareness of multiple perspectives. The structure is logical and the conclusion attempts to provide a justified position. However, the analysis lacks the depth and sophistication of higher-level responses. Points are often stated rather than fully developed — for example, "privacy concerns" is mentioned but not explored in terms of who would access data or how it might be misused. The ethical discussion addresses key issues but treats them somewhat superficially. Technical understanding is basic, with limited use of specific terminology. The conclusion, while present, could be more nuanced; it tends toward a one-sided view without fully acknowledging the complexity of the issues raised earlier. To reach a higher grade, this response would need: deeper exploration of each point with specific examples, more sophisticated analysis of the ethical dilemmas, greater use of technical vocabulary, and a more nuanced conclusion that better reflects the complexities discussed.

Grade E (near miss) answer

Autonomous vehicles are cars that drive themselves using computers and sensors. They have good points and bad points.

The good social impacts are that they would be safer because computers don't make mistakes like humans do. People wouldn't crash because of drunk driving or texting while driving. Old people and disabled people could use them to get around. People wouldn't have to concentrate on driving so they could relax.

The bad points are that the technology might go wrong and cause accidents. People might not trust computers to drive. The cars need sensors and these might not work in bad weather.

For economic impacts, lots of people would lose their jobs. Taxi drivers and lorry drivers wouldn't be needed anymore. This would be bad for the economy. But some new jobs would be created for people who make the cars.

Autonomous vehicles would save money because there would be less accidents. Accidents are expensive so this would be good. Traffic would be better because the cars could communicate with each other.

The ethical issues are about who is to blame when there is a crash. Is it the person who owns the car or the company that made it? This is a problem that needs to be sorted out. Also, what should the car do if it has to choose between hitting a person or crashing into a wall? The car would have to be programmed to make this decision but it's hard to decide what is right.

Another problem is that rich people would get the cars first because they will cost a lot of money. Poor people wouldn't be able to afford them. This isn't fair.

I think autonomous vehicles should be allowed because they are the future and technology is always improving. They would stop a lot of accidents which is the most important thing. Yes, some people would lose jobs but that happens with all new technology and people can get different jobs. The companies making the cars should make sure they are safe before they sell them.

The problems like who is responsible for crashes need to be worked out by the government making new laws. Once everything is sorted out properly then autonomous vehicles should definitely be allowed.

In conclusion, autonomous vehicles are a good idea because they will save lives. The problems can be fixed. We should use new technology to make things better.

Mark: 5/17

Examiner commentary: This response demonstrates basic awareness of the topic and identifies some relevant points across social, economic, and ethical dimensions, but the development is limited throughout. A significant weakness is the claim that "computers don't make mistakes" — this shows misunderstanding of how technology works; autonomous systems can and do make errors, and this would need addressing in a stronger answer. Points are listed rather than analyzed — for example, job losses are mentioned but not explored in terms of scale, retraining needs, or broader economic consequences. The ethical discussion is superficial and doesn't fully engage with the complexity of moral decisions in unavoidable accident scenarios. Technical terminology is minimal and sometimes imprecise. The conclusion is simplistic and doesn't adequately reflect the complexity of the issues; phrases like "the future" and "make things better" are vague rather than analytical. To improve toward a higher grade, the candidate should: develop each point with specific examples and explanation, avoid oversimplifications (acknowledge that technology can fail), use more precise technical language, engage more deeply with ethical complexity, and construct a conclusion that weighs specific benefits against specific problems rather than making general statements about technology and progress.