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Edexcel GCSE Computer Science (1CP2) Exam Questions

Build a practice paper from 693 exam-style questions, each with its mark scheme and example answers. Print it, or answer it on paper and then open the mark schemes. Or browse the questions by topic.

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2 questions · 3 marks

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1Multiple choice1 markPurpose & Function of Operating Systems Swap Remove

An operating system manages the files stored on a computer.

Identify the operating system function that keeps track of where files are stored on a disk.

[1 mark]
  • AFile management
  • BPeripheral management
  • CProcess management
  • DUser management
Mark scheme
  • A File management (1)
  • The only correct answer is A. The correct answer is file management.
  • B is not correct because peripheral management controls input and output devices such as printers and mice
  • C is not correct because process management decides which program will next run on the CPU
  • D is not correct because user management handles logins, passwords and access rights
Example answers and how they were marked
Full marks1/1

A File management

Why: Correct option: file management keeps a record of where each file is stored so it can be found again (1).

No marks0/1

C Process management

Why: Near miss: process management deals with programs running on the CPU, not with the location of files on a disk (0).

No marks0/1

B Peripheral management

Why: Misconception: peripheral management is about input and output devices such as printers, not about stored files (0).

2Describe2 marksFetch Decode Execute Cycle Swap Remove

The control unit is one component of the CPU.

Describe the role of the control unit in the fetch-decode-execute cycle.

[2 marks]
Mark scheme

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

  • Decodes instructions (1) to determine what action/operation is required (1)
  • Sends control signals (1) along the control bus to coordinate/control the actions of other components (1)
  • Controls the fetch stage (1) by causing the next instruction to be fetched from main memory/RAM (1)
  • Controls the execute stage (1) by telling the ALU/other components when to carry out the required operation (1)

Do not accept responses relating to how the control unit affects performance, such as increasing clock speed.

Do not accept responses that describe the role of the ALU, registers or clock instead of the control unit.

Do not accept responses about the ALU performing calculations unless the control unit controlling the ALU is also stated.

Example answers and how they were marked
Full marks2/2

The control unit decodes instructions to determine what action is required.

Why: Linked point (1) and development (1): decodes instructions and determines the required action.

Some marks1/2

The control unit controls the fetch stage of the cycle.

Why: Point only (1): controls the fetch stage, but no linked development.

No marks0/2

The control unit carries out arithmetic and logical operations on data.

Why: No creditworthy point: describes the role of the ALU, which the mark scheme rejects.

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