A computer stores many files on its hard drive.
Explain one reason why an operating system needs file management.
Mark scheme
Award up to two marks for a linked explanation such as:
- The operating system keeps a record of where each file is stored (1) so files can be found/retrieved later (1)
- The operating system keeps files in separate storage locations (1) so files are not overwritten/lost (1)
- The operating system allocates files to folders/directories (1) so it can keep track of the files stored on the disk (1)
- The operating system deletes/moves files (1) so storage space is freed/reused (1)
For both marks, the expansion must follow/associate with the statement.
Do not accept 'it manages files'/'it organises files' without expansion as to what is managed or organised.
Do not accept 'so files are managed/organised' as the linked reason.
Do not accept 'so the computer works' as the linked reason.
Example answers and how they were marked
The operating system keeps a record of where each file is stored on the disk, so a program can find and open the file later.
Why: Linked point (1) and reason (1): record of file location and retrieval.
The operating system keeps a record of where each file is stored.
Why: Point (1) only; no linked reason given.
The operating system manages the files so the files are managed.
Why: Repeats the question ('manages files') and the expansion restates the point ('so the files are managed'); no creditworthy point under the Do not accept lines.