Mark Scheme

Section A — Structured Questions

1. (a) (up to 3) An input device puts data into the computer (e.g. keyboard, mouse, scanner); an output device gets information out of the computer (e.g. monitor, printer, speaker). 1 for the distinction, 1 for each valid example. [3] (b) (up to 4) RAM is volatile (loses its contents when the power is off), fast, and holds programs and data currently in use; backing storage (e.g. hard drive, SSD) is non-volatile (keeps data when the power is off) and stores programs and files permanently/long-term. Two clear differences. [4] (c) (up to 4) System software controls and runs the computer/manages hardware (e.g. an operating system such as Windows, or utilities); application software lets the user carry out a specific task (e.g. a word processor or spreadsheet). Distinction (2) + an example of each (2). [4]

2. (a) (up to 3) Two data items (e.g. name, date of birth, address, grades) (2); accuracy matters because decisions/records/contact depend on the data, and errors could cause problems (e.g. contacting the wrong person, wrong reports) (1). [3] (b) (up to 4) Two advantages: data can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection; it is backed up automatically/safely off-site (protection against local loss); easy to share and collaborate; storage can be scaled easily. 1 + 1 development each. [4] (c) (up to 3) A backup is a copy of data kept separately so it can be restored if the original is lost or damaged (2); a business should back up regularly so that if data is lost (hardware failure, ransomware, accident) only a small amount of recent work is lost (1). [3]

3. (a) (up to 2) Advantage — can share files, hardware (e.g. printers) and an internet connection; Disadvantage — if the network/server fails, all users are affected, and there is a greater risk of malware/unauthorised access spreading. 1 each. [2] (b) (up to 2) A LAN covers a small area (e.g. one building/site); a WAN covers a large geographical area (e.g. between cities/countries, like the internet). [2] (c) (up to 6) Two advantages for the customer: shop anytime/anywhere (convenience, no travel); easy to compare prices and find a wider choice; often cheaper. One disadvantage: cannot see/try the product before buying; delivery time/cost; risk of fraud/sharing personal and payment details. 3 marks per advantage-pair and 3 for the disadvantage-and-development as appropriate (2 advantages developed = up to 4, disadvantage developed = up to 2). [6]

4. (a) (up to 3) One health problem + prevention: eye strain from staring at a screen → take regular breaks / use an anti-glare screen; RSI/back problems → good posture, ergonomic equipment, breaks. Problem (2) + prevention (1). [3] (b) (up to 4) Phishing = sending fake emails/messages that appear to be from a trusted source to trick people into revealing personal/financial information (2); protection: do not click links in unexpected emails / check the sender / contact the organisation directly / use spam filters (2). [4] (c) (up to 3) The digital divide = the gap between those who have access to technology/the internet and those who do not (2); it is a concern because people without access are disadvantaged in education, work and services, increasing inequality (1). [3] (d) (up to 3) Any two security measures (accept 1.5 each, or 2 + 1): use strong passwords / user access levels (limit who can see the data); encrypt the data so it cannot be read if stolen; use a firewall and anti-malware; keep backups; train staff / control physical access. [3]

Section B — Extended Response

5. (10 marks) Levels-marked discussion.

• Advantages of a computer-based system: data is easier and faster to search, sort and update; less physical storage space; can produce reports/analysis quickly (spreadsheets); easier to back up; more professional; can reduce errors (validation).
• Disadvantages: cost of hardware, software and setup; staff need training; risk of data loss (hardware failure) or security/hacking; dependence on power/the system working.
• Considerations before changing: cost vs benefit; staff training; data security and backups; transferring existing records accurately; data-protection responsibilities.
• Levels: 8–10 = balanced discussion of advantages and disadvantages with advice; 5–7 = several points with some development; 1–4 = basic. Credit a reasoned recommendation.

6. (up to 6) Two ways ICT/the internet has changed work, with a benefit and a drawback:

• Remote/flexible working — people can work from home via the internet (benefit: saves commuting, flexibility); drawback: harder to separate work and home life / requires reliable technology.
• Communication — email/video calls speed up communication across the world (benefit); drawback: expectation to be always available / information overload.
• Automation — computers do routine tasks (benefit: efficiency); drawback: some jobs are lost/changed. Levels: 5–6 = two ways with a clear benefit and drawback; 3–4 = some development; 1–2 = basic. [6]

Sample Answers with Examiner Commentary

Question 1(b) — Sample Answers

Grade A response. "RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile, which means it loses everything stored in it when the computer is switched off. It is very fast and is used to hold the programs and data that the computer is currently using, so the processor can access them quickly. Backing storage, such as a hard drive or solid-state drive, is non-volatile, so it keeps data even when the power is off. It is used to store programs and files permanently, for long-term storage, and is much larger but slower than RAM."

Mark: 4/4. Examiner commentary: A full-mark answer that gives two clear, correct differences. The candidate contrasts RAM and backing storage on the two key points examiners look for — volatility (RAM loses data when powered off, backing storage does not) and purpose (RAM holds what is currently in use; backing storage keeps files permanently) — and adds the supporting detail of speed and size. Explaining why each is used, not just what it is, is what secures full marks.

Grade C response. "RAM is the memory the computer uses to run things and backing storage is where you save your files like documents and photos."

Mark: 2/4. Examiner commentary: The candidate shows a basic, correct understanding — RAM is used while running programs and backing storage holds saved files — earning two marks. However, the key technical difference is missing: that RAM is volatile (loses its contents when the power is off) while backing storage is non-volatile (keeps data permanently). Adding that distinction, and perhaps the difference in speed, would gain the remaining marks. Precise ICT terminology is what separates a middle answer from a top one here.

Question 3(c) — Sample Answers

Grade A response (extract). "One advantage of online shopping for the customer is convenience: they can shop at any time of day, from home, without having to travel to a physical store, which is especially useful for people who are busy or live far from shops. A second advantage is that it is easy to compare prices and choice — customers can quickly look at several websites to find the best deal and can access a much wider range of products than a local shop could stock. One disadvantage is that the customer cannot physically see or try the product before buying, so it might not be what they expected when it arrives, and returning it can be inconvenient."

Mark: 6/6. Examiner commentary: A full-mark answer. Two distinct advantages are given and developed with reasons (convenience explained through no travel and flexible timing; comparison/choice explained through access to many sellers), and a genuine disadvantage is developed (not being able to see the product, with the consequence that it may disappoint and returns are awkward). Developing each point with a reason and a consequence, rather than just listing, is exactly what the six marks require.

Grade C response. "You can shop from home and it is quick. There is lots of choice. A disadvantage is you have to wait for delivery."

Mark: 3/6. Examiner commentary: The candidate gives two reasonable advantages (shopping from home, choice) and a valid disadvantage (waiting for delivery), earning three marks — one per point. However, none is developed. 'Shop from home and it is quick' could be extended to explain the convenience of no travel and shopping at any time; 'lots of choice' could explain access to many sellers; and the delivery point could add the inconvenience or cost. Developing each point with a reason or consequence would double the mark.