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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 marksStored Program Computers Swap Remove

The CPU contains an arithmetic logic unit (ALU).

Describe the purpose of the arithmetic logic unit (ALU).

[2 marks]
Mark scheme

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

  • Carries out arithmetic operations/calculations, such as addition or subtraction (1) so that the result can be stored in a register (1)
  • Carries out logical operations, such as comparing two data items (1) to see which one is greater/larger (1)
  • Compares two data items (1) to decide whether a condition is true / which path a program takes next (1)

Allow the result of an arithmetic or logical operation being held/stored in a register, but only where the operation is named.

Do not accept answers that say the ALU stores data or results without naming an operation (registers/main memory store data).

Do not accept answers about controlling components, decoding instructions or timing (that is the control unit or the clock).

Do not award credit for 'it processes data' on its own; an arithmetic or a logical operation must be named.

An example on its own, e.g. 'it adds two numbers', does not earn a second mark; the second mark needs a linked development.

Example answers and how they were marked
Full marks2/2

The ALU carries out arithmetic operations such as addition and subtraction, and the result of the calculation is stored in a register.

Why: Linked point (1) for arithmetic operations with an example, and development (1) for the result being stored in a register.

Some marks1/2

It does all the calculations in the CPU, for example adding two numbers together.

Why: Point (1) for arithmetic operations/calculations named with an example; no linked development, so the second mark is not earned.

No marks0/2

It stores the results of calculations so that they can be used by the CPU later.

Why: Storing results with no arithmetic or logical operation named, which the 'Do not accept' line rules out, so no mark is earned.

3Explain2 marksEmbedded Systems Swap Remove

A greenhouse uses an embedded system to keep the plants healthy.

Explain how the embedded system controls the temperature in the greenhouse.

[2 marks]
Mark scheme

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

  • A temperature sensor measures/reads the temperature in the greenhouse (1) which the processor compares with the value stored in the system (1)
  • The heater is switched on (1) when the temperature reading goes below the value stored in the system (1)
  • A fan/vent/window is opened/a cooler is switched on (1) when the temperature reading goes above the value stored in the system (1)
  • The temperature is checked/measured continuously (1) so the heater/fan is switched on or off as soon as the temperature changes (1)

For both marks, the expansion must follow/associate with the statement.

Allow one mark for a correct point on its own without a linked reason, e.g. 'a temperature sensor measures the temperature'.

Do not award 'the embedded system controls/keeps the temperature correct' as this repeats the question.

Do not accept naming a device without saying what it does, e.g. 'the greenhouse has a thermostat'.

Example answers and how they were marked
Full marks2/2

A temperature sensor measures the temperature in the greenhouse, which the processor compares with the value stored in the system.

Why: Point (1): the input and what it measures. Reason (1): the linked statement about what the processor does with the reading.

Some marks1/2

The embedded system uses a temperature sensor that measures the temperature in the greenhouse.

Why: A correct point on its own (1); no linked statement about what the system does with the reading, so the second mark is not awarded.

No marks0/2

The embedded system controls the temperature so the plants do not get too cold.

Why: Rewords the question without saying how the temperature is measured or changed, so no mark is awarded.

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

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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

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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

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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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