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Q&A-KCSE Computer Studies Paper 1

Ahmed uses the Internet for some time and is puzzled by the terminology.
(a) Draw a line to match each description to the appropriate technical term.

  • a computer that responds to requests to provide information and services over the Internet - an Internet server
  • defines how messages are transmitted and formatted over the Internet-HTTP
  • software that enables users to access/view documents and other resources on the Internet - Browser     
  • numerical ID for each device on the Internet-IP address
  • unique ID for a network interface card  -MAC address
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State three categories Operating Systems grouped according to user interface

  • Commandline/ Character interface Operating systems
  •  Menu Driven Operating Systems
  •  Graphical User Interface Operating Systems
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State four threats that compromise data integrity and state ways that can be used to minimise these threats

State four threats that compromise data integrity

  • Human error
  • natural disaster
  • data transmission errors
  • software bugs

How threats to data integrity can be minimised:

  • Backup data preferably on an external storage media
  • control access to data by enforcing security measures
  • design user interfaces that minimise chances of invalid data entry
  • using error detection and correction software when transmitting data over the network
  • using devices that directly capture data from the source such as bar code readers, digtal cameras, and optical character readers

 

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State two reasons for carrying out software updates

  • To get the latest features
  • To update security features
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Give two characteristics of each of the system development methodologies listed below.

(a) Linear/Cascade/Waterfall

(b) Iterative Methodology

(a) Linear/Cascade/Waterfall

  • a project is divided into stages or phases
  • it is sequential, each stage needs to be completed before moving on
  • clear goals are set for each stage

(b) Iterative Methodology

  • effective in producing a working prototype in a short period of time
  •  involves extensive user input and testing
  • based on build – test – evaluate process, the philosophy is re-build until users are completely satisfied
  • features user input throughout the process which enables ongoing, responsive changes to be made to the design.
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451/1

COMPUTER STUDIES

PAPER 1

THEORY

DECEMBER 2021

TIME: 2 HOURS

 

FORM TWO END OF TERM TWO 2O21 EXAM

451/1

COMPUTER STUDIES

PAPER 1

THEORY

TIME: 2½ HOURS

 

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES:

  • Write your name and ADMISSION number in the spaces provided above.
  • Write the date of examination and sign in the spaces provided.
  • This paper consists of two sections.
  • Answer all the questions in section A.
  • Choose one topic to answer in section B
  • All answers must be written in the spaces provided in this question paper.
  1. SECTION A
  2.  Answer all questions in this section
  3. What is a computer?                                                                                                            1mks
  4. State three physical components that make up a computer                                                 3mks
  5. State the hardware technological differences between the second generation and third generation computers                                                                                                          2mks
  6. State and explain three characteristics of a computer                                                         3mks
  7. State the functions of the following special memories in a computer                                3mks
  8. Buffers
  9.  
  10. Registers
  11. Cache
  12.  
  13. Define the following as used in data representation in a computer                                  (5mks)
  14. Bit
  15.  
  16.  
  17. Byte
  18.  
  19.  
  20. Nibble
  21.  
  22.  
  23.  
  24. Word
  25.  
  26.  
  27.  
  28. Word-length
  29.  
  30.  
  31. State two reasons why a DVD is superior to a typical compact disk                               (2mks)
  32. State three advantages of flat panel monitors over cathode ray tube monitors                   3mks
  33. Explain the following terms as used in word processing                                                  3mks
  34. Section breaks
  35. Thesaurus
  36. Superscript
  37. State two advantages of  impact printers                                                                             2mks
  38. State the function of the following keys on the computer keyboard                                  3mks
  39. Enter key
  40. Insert key
  41. Delete key
  42. State the technology used by the following secondary devices to store data                      3mks
  43. Magnetic storage devices
  44. Solid state storage devices
  45. Optical storage devices
  46. State three reasons why an operating system is important in a computer                         3mks
  47. A typical computer’s main memory consists of both volatile and non-volatile memory.
  48. i)  Explain what is meant by the term volatile memory                                          (1mark)
  49. ii) What is normally stored in the non-volatile part of a computer’s main memory (1mark)
  50. Explain why having cache memory can improve the performance of the CPU         (2mks)
  51. What is a computer system?                                                                                           (1mk
  52. Give two differences between a solid state drive (SSD) and a hard disk drive (HDD)   2mks
  53. State three categories of software classified according User license agreement              (3mks)
  54. State two disadvantages of Random Access Memory                                                       (1mk)
  55.  
  56.  
  57. a) Explain the functions performed by the following components of a processor   (2 marks)
  58. Control unit
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Internet and E-mail Questions

Define the term internet      1mk

  • The global interconnection of computer networks for purpose of communication and resource sharing

Explain the term web page    1mk

  • A hypertext  page prepared to display the content on the web

Explain the following internet address http://www.google.co.us in reference to the structure of a URL    3mks

  • HTTP- hypertext transfer protocol or simply protocol
  • WWW – subdomain
  • google – the name of the computer with the web content/domain name
  • .co – top level domain for commercial organization
  • .us- a TLD extension for the country US

 

What is the world wide web                                       1mk

  •  A virtual space on the internet that allows web pages and sites to be accessed

Define the term browser                                    1mk

  •  A software that used viewing of web content

Explain the meaning of the word hyperlink     1mk

  • A text or picture that is a link to another webpage on the internet

What is a search engine?     1mk

  • Is a special program that collects and stores links to information websites allowing users to search its database for them
  • A specialized web-based application that help the user to search for specific information on the internet.

Explain the meaning of the term internet service provider            1mk

  • A company that offers internet services to end-users

Identify three elements apart from a computer that is required for one to be connected to the internet    3mk

  • Modem
  • Internet software
  • Internet service provider
  • Telecommunication lines
  • TCP/IP protocols

 

Define the term modem 1mk

  • Stands for modulator-demodulator
  • A device that enables telecommunication to use telephone lines

What is a protocol? Write the following in full: TCP/IP, HTML, HTTP and FTP           5mks

  • Protocols – are special communication rules that govern sending and receiving of messages by computers on a network
  • Html – hypertext markup language
  • Hypertext transfer protocol
  • Transmission Control Protocol
  • Internet Protocol
  • File Transfer Protocol

What would you do if a website refused to load on the browser within the first attempt?   1mk

  • Click the refresh button on the toolbar

 State three internet services                         3mks

  • Instant messaging
  • E-mails
  • E-commerce
  • Social media and networks
  • E-learning

 

Define the term internet telephony      1mk

  • Transmission of voice data over the internet

State three benefits of the internet in our society

  • Provides a platform for conducting business and marketing
  • Provides many platforms such as social media through which people can contact each other
  • Cost saving
  • Efficient communication


Interfaces enable computer users to interact with the operating system. State three advantages of using a graphical user interface (GUI) for loading programs and files.

  • novice can use the system right away
  • user-friendly/easy to select
  • click on icons/picture to select
  • easier to input/words are replaced with icons
  • no need to know command language to use the system/remember
  • command language
  • selecting item using mouse is faster than entering commands
  • avoids typing errors
  • no need to type
  • no need to remember commands
  • no need know the different commands for the different software
  • multitasking (several programs open at the same time therefore easier
  • /faster to switch
  • easier/faster switching between files, folders etc.
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Explain why a developer, who is good at both low-level and high-level programming, would normally use high-level languages when writing programs                                                                                    [4 marks]

  • High-level languages have built-in functions;
  • High-level languages have built-in libraries;
  •  High-level languages have more support/help;
  • High-level languages have structures (such as selection and iteration);
  • High-level languages can be less machine-dependent/more portable;
  • It (usually) requires fewer lines of code to be written;
  • It is (usually) quicker to develop code in high-level languages;
  • It is easier to find mistakes in code;
  • The code is easier to maintain//understand;
  • • It is easier to structure code in high-level languages;
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Differentiate between active matrix and passive matrix LCDs

 

  • Passive matrix create images by scanning the entire screen whereas active matrix displays are made using thin-film transistors technology(TFT)
  • active matrix  display has a higher resolution compared to passive matrix
  • Active matrix consume more energy than passive matrix
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  • Explain the purpose of an operating system
  • provides an interface between the computer user and the hardware
  • Manages the allocation and deallocation of the CPU to processes.
  • manages Input-output devices by use of drivers

Explain two computer hardware features that may be considered when selecting a laptop computer to be used in developing a KCSE computer studies project (4mks)

Multimedia Capability - A laptop with strong multimedia capabilities is essential for a computer studies project submitted on CD-RW. This ensures that the laptop can efficiently handle multimedia content, providing a seamless experience in creating and presenting project materials.

Processor Speed - Opting for a laptop with a high processor speed is crucial. This feature enables the smooth execution of multiple applications simultaneously, enhancing overall project efficiency and reducing processing delays.

Hard Disk Capacity - Consider a laptop with ample hard disk capacity, as the Microsoft Office suite used in computer projects requires significant space for the installation and storage of project files. A spacious hard drive ensures that there is sufficient room for data and applications.

Main Memory Capacity - Given that students often work with multiple programs concurrently during a project, it's important to choose a laptop with an adequate main memory size. A smaller main memory may result in performance issues, hindering the seamless operation of various software applications during project development.

 

(iv) Identify the part of the CPU that sends signals to the other components.

 

 Control unit

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Peter has installed internet on his home computer in order to use it for browsing. State three ways in which he would prevent viruses from infecting his computer.                                                        (3 marks)

  • Installing the latest versions of antivirus software
  • Avoiding downloads from untrusted sites
  • Scanning removable storage media for viruses before use
  • Scanning attachments for viruses before opening or downloading
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Define the term variable as used in programming

A variable is a memory location used to store a value

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State Advantages of online booking

  • It prevents double-booking which could happen in paper-based booking system
  • The customer gets immediate feedback on the availability of seats
  • The customer can make  booking at any time of the day
  • Emails provided by customers during booking can be used by companies for advertisement
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Differentiate between object code and source code

  • Object code refers to a program in machine language while source code to a program in a high level language that must be translated to object code for it to be machine readable
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State one ethical responsibility of software users

  • Users need to ensure that their software is licensed
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State what is meant by Computer Aided Design (CAD).

Give three different applications that make use of CAD.

Name three specialist input/output devices used in CAD.

software that can be used to design new products/amend existing products
makes use of features such as 2D, 3D, wire frames, library of parts, links to CAM

Give three different applications that make use of CAD.

aerospace
architecture
designing cars
designing consumer goods
chemical/nuclear plant design
designing electronic circuit boards
ergonomic design
landscape/garden design

Name three specialist input/output devices used in CAD.

large monitor/screen with hi-res
touch screen
plotter
space mouse/space ball/4D device
3D glasses (in some applications)
light pen
graphics tablet
3D printer
3D scanner

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Describe two methods used to assist in finding program errors.

  • Use of debugging utilities
  • Use of test data
  • Dry run / Desk checking
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