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Edexcel GCSE Computer Science (1CP2) Exam Questions

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4 questions · 11 marks

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1Multiple choice1 markEmbedded Systems Swap Remove

Identify the term for a computer that forms part of another device and performs a specific task.

[1 mark]
  • AEmbedded system
  • BGeneral purpose computer
  • CNetworked computer
  • DServer computer
Mark scheme
  • A Embedded system (1)
  • The only correct answer is A. The correct answer is embedded system.
  • B is not correct because a general purpose computer can run many different application programs
  • C is not correct because a networked computer is connected to other computers to share resources
  • D is not correct because a server computer provides services or resources to other computers on a network
Example answers and how they were marked
Full marks1/1

A Embedded system

Why: Correct option: an embedded system forms part of another device and performs a specific task (1).

No marks0/1

B General purpose computer

Why: Near miss: a general purpose computer can run many different application programs; it is not built into another device to perform a specific task, so no mark.

No marks0/1

D Server computer

Why: Misconception: a server provides services or resources to other computers on a network and is not an embedded system, so no mark.

2Describe2 marksSecondary Memory Swap Remove

Computers use secondary storage.

Describe the role of secondary storage.

[2 marks]
Mark scheme

Award up to two marks for a linked description such as:

  • Stores programs (including the operating system) and data that are not currently in use (1) so that they can be loaded into RAM/main memory when needed (1)
  • Keeps files/programs/data when the power is turned off (1) which happens because it is non-volatile (1)
  • Stores files/data for backup or archiving (1) so that they can be recovered if the originals are lost/corrupted (1)

A correct role on its own earns one mark; the second mark requires a linked development.

Accept either order if both the role and the link are given.

Do not accept 'it is non-volatile' on its own, unless it is linked to keeping data when the power is turned off.

Do not accept answers that only name a storage type (magnetic, optical, solid state) without describing a role.

Do not accept responses that describe primary storage/RAM, e.g. storing the data/instructions the CPU is currently working on, or that secondary storage makes the computer run faster.

Example answers and how they were marked
Full marks2/2

Secondary storage stores programs and data that are not currently in use so that they can be loaded into RAM when they are needed.

Why: Role point (1) linked to loading into RAM when needed (1).

Some marks1/2

It stores files and programs that are not currently in use.

Why: Correct role on its own earns one mark (1); no linked development, so the second mark is not awarded.

No marks0/2

It holds the data and instructions the CPU is working on so the computer runs faster.

Why: Describes primary storage/RAM and a speed benefit, which the mark scheme does not accept; no role of secondary storage is given.

3Describe2 marksEmbedded Systems Swap Remove

Many modern devices contain embedded systems.

Describe what is meant by the term embedded system.

[2 marks]
Mark scheme

Award up to two marks for a linked description such as:

  • It is a computer/processor built into a larger device (1) to carry out a single dedicated task/function (1)
  • It is a combination of a processor, memory and input/output in one unit (1) that controls the device it is part of (1)
  • It is a computer that forms part of another device (1) so it is not used as a general purpose computer (1)

Allow 'forms part of another device' or 'inside another device' for the first mark.

Do not award the second mark for a separate fact that is not linked to the first point, e.g. 'It is built into a device and it uses little power' would earn only the first mark (1).

Do not accept 'a small computer' on its own, with no reference to being part of another device or performing a dedicated task.

Do not accept 'a computer that controls a device' on its own, with no reference to it being built into/part of a larger device or carrying out a dedicated task.

Do not accept 'it performs a single dedicated task' on its own, with no reference to it being built into/part of a larger device.

Do not accept descriptions of a general purpose computer, e.g. 'it can run many different programs' or 'new software can be installed'.

Do not accept 'it is a system that is embedded in another system' as this repeats the term in the question.

Example answers and how they were marked
Full marks2/2

An embedded system is a computer built into a larger device to carry out one specific/dedicated task

Why: Linked point (1) that it is built into a larger device, developed (1) with the dedicated task it performs.

Some marks1/2

It is a small computer that is inside another device.

Why: First point only (1) - inside/part of another device - with no linked development of a dedicated task.

No marks0/2

It is a computer that controls a device.

Why: Near-miss: only says it controls a device, with no reference to being built into/part of a larger device or a dedicated task, so no marks.

4Discuss6 marksEmbedded Systems Swap Remove

A technology company is developing a new fitness tracker. The tracker is worn on the wrist and monitors the wearer's heart rate, the number of steps taken and their sleep. It has a rechargeable battery and a touch screen.

Discuss the use of embedded systems in the fitness tracker.

Your answer should include:

  • what an embedded system is.
  • the functions embedded systems perform in the tracker.
  • why an embedded system is suitable for this device.
[6 marks]
Mark scheme

Indicative content

What an embedded system is

  • An embedded system is a computer system that forms part of a larger device, such as the fitness tracker.
  • It performs a single, dedicated or specific task rather than being a general purpose computer.
  • It is often built around a microcontroller, which contains the processor, RAM and ROM on a single chip.
  • Its software is held in ROM so the tracker can run its program as soon as it is switched on.

Functions in the tracker

  • Monitoring the heart rate using a sensor and processing the readings so that they can be displayed on the screen.
  • Counting steps using an accelerometer and using the count to calculate the distance walked or the calories burned.
  • Tracking sleep by monitoring the wearer's movement during the night.
  • Controlling the touch screen so that the user can move between displays.
  • Managing the battery, for example stopping the charging when the battery is full and saving power when the tracker is idle.
  • Sending the collected data to a smartphone using Bluetooth so that it can be viewed in an app. Accept any other specific function of the fitness tracker that an embedded system could control.

Why an embedded system is suitable for this device

  • It has low power consumption, so the battery lasts longer between charges, which matters for a device that is worn all day.
  • It is small and light, so it can be fitted into a wristband.
  • Its dedicated function means it does not need a full operating system, so it is reliable and does not need restarting.
  • The program is small and stored in ROM, so the tracker needs only a small amount of memory.
  • It can be optimised for its specific tasks, so it responds quickly to the readings from its sensors.
  • The low cost per unit keeps the tracker affordable for the customer.

Levels

  • Level 0 (0 marks): No rewardable content.
  • Level 1 (1–2 marks): Basic, independent points are made, showing elements of understanding of key concepts/principles of computer science. (AO1) The discussion will contain basic information with little linkage between points made or application to the context. (AO2)
  • Level 2 (3–4 marks): Demonstrates adequate understanding of key concepts/principles of computer science. (AO1) The discussion shows some linkages and lines of reasoning with some structure and application to the context. (AO2)
  • Level 3 (5–6 marks): Demonstrates comprehensive understanding of key concepts/principles of computer science to support the discussion being presented. (AO1) The discussion is well developed, with sustained lines of reasoning that are coherent and logically structured, and which clearly apply to the context. (AO2)

Additional guidance

  • Level 3 responses must cover what an embedded system is, the functions it performs in the tracker and why it is suitable for the tracker.
  • Do not award installing new software/apps, functions the tracker does not perform (such as playing music) or 'it is like a phone'.
Example answers and how they were marked
Full marks6/6

An embedded system is a computer system that forms part of a larger device and performs a single, dedicated task. In the tracker it is built around a microcontroller, which has the processor, RAM and ROM on one chip, and its program is stored in ROM so it runs as soon as the tracker is switched on. The embedded system monitors the heart rate using a sensor and processes the readings before showing them on the screen. Another function counts the steps using an accelerometer and uses that count to work out the distance walked and the calories burned, and further functions monitor movement at night to track sleep and send the data to a smartphone by Bluetooth. The embedded system also controls the touch screen and manages the battery so that charging stops when it is full and power is saved when the tracker is idle. An embedded system is suitable because it has low power consumption, so the battery lasts longer between charges, which matters for a device that is worn all day and cannot be charged constantly. It is also small and light, so it fits into a wristband, and because it is dedicated to a few tasks it does not need a full operating system, so it is reliable and can be optimised to respond quickly to its sensors. Keeping the cost low also makes the tracker affordable for the customer.

Why: Comprehensive definition including the microcontroller and ROM (AO1), a range of functions each applied to the tracker (heart rate, steps, sleep, Bluetooth, touch screen, battery), and suitability points developed with reasons (low power for a device worn all day, small size for a wristband, dedicated design for reliability and quick response). Sustained lines of reasoning, all three bullets covered: Level 3 (5-6) clearly met.

Some marks2/6

An embedded system is a small computer inside a device. In a fitness tracker it can monitor your heart rate and count your steps. It is suitable because it is small and does not use much power.

Why: Basic independent points only: a basic definition, two functions and one basic suitability point, with no development and almost no application to the tracker (no explanation of why small size or low power matter). Level 1 (1-2 marks), upper end because there are several independent correct points, but no linkage or reasoning for Level 2.

No marks0/6

An embedded system is a computer that you can install apps on. The fitness tracker uses it to play music and send texts. It is suitable because it is like a phone.

Why: The definition is the opposite of an embedded system (it cannot install new software), the functions are ones the tracker does not perform and 'it is like a phone' is not a suitability point. No rewardable content: Level 0 (0 marks).

Questions by topic

2.1 Binary

Build a paper on this topic 58
Adding Binary Numbers 6 questions Binary and Hexadecimal Basics 10 questions Binary Shifts 6 questions Binary to Denary Conversion 6 questions Binary to Hexadecimal Conversion 6 questions Denary to Binary Conversion 6 questions Denary to Hexadecimal Conversion 6 questions Denary to Negative Binary Conversion 6 questions Hexadecimal to Binary Conversion 6 questions

2.2 Data representation

Build a paper on this topic 56
Character Sets 18 questions Images 19 questions Sound 19 questions

2.3 Data storage and compression

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Compression 18 questions Units & Conversion 6 questions

3.1 Hardware

Build a paper on this topic 77
Embedded Systems 17 questions Fetch Decode Execute Cycle 15 questions Primary Memory 15 questions Secondary Memory 15 questions Stored Program Computers 15 questions

3.2 Software

Build a paper on this topic 124
File Management 18 questions Memory Management 16 questions Peripheral Management 11 questions Process Management 12 questions Purpose & Function of Operating Systems 17 questions Software Basics 13 questions User Management 18 questions Utility Software 19 questions

3.3 Programming languages

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Low and High Level Languages 19 questions Translators 18 questions

4.1 Networks

Build a paper on this topic 138
Addressing 16 questions LANs & WANs 16 questions Network Speed 5 questions Packet Switching 16 questions Protocols & Layers 17 questions The Internet 16 questions Topologies 17 questions Wired Connections 17 questions Wireless Connections 18 questions

4.2 Network security

Build a paper on this topic 36
Network Security Risks 18 questions Preventing Network Security Risks 18 questions

5.1 Environmental

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E-waste 17 questions Manufacturing Technology 19 questions

5.2 Ethical and legal

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Data Protection Act 17 questions Impact of AI 18 questions Intellectual Property 18 questions Software Licences 18 questions

5.3 Cybersecurity

Build a paper on this topic 36
Malware 18 questions Social Engineering 18 questions

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