Edexcel GCSE Computer Science (1CP2) Exam Questions

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

• Makes a file/files smaller (1) so less storage space is needed on the disk (1)
• Reduces the size of the data (1) so it takes less time to upload/download/transfer the file (1)
• Compresses files/folders into a single file (1) so an attachment is under the size limit for email (1)
• Reduces the size of the files (1) so more of them fit onto a storage device/backup media (1)

Do not accept 'it compresses the files' on its own, as this repeats the question.

Do not accept responses about protecting files from malware/viruses or about deleting files.

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

• If one cable/device fails, the other devices on the network are not affected (1) because each device has its own separate connection to the central switch (1)
• Faults are easier to find (1) because each device has its own cable, so the faulty cable can be checked on its own (1)
• Data is sent only to the intended device (1) because the central switch forwards the data only to the device it is addressed to (1)
• Data transfer is fast (1) because each device has its own cable, so devices do not share the cable with each other (1)
• New devices can be added easily (1) because a device only needs one cable to a spare port on the central switch (1)

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

A benefit stated on its own can earn one mark; the second mark is only for a linked reason.

Accept 'switch' for the central device.

Do not accept 'server' or 'hub' for the central device.

Do not accept 'hub', as a hub sends data to all devices, not only to the intended device.

Do not award a mark for responses that say only that the network is better/more reliable/easier without naming a benefit.

Indicative content

How files become fragmented

• A file is saved into free blocks on the disk, so as files are deleted and new ones saved, one file can end up split across blocks in different places.
• Large files are more likely to become fragmented because they may not fit into one free space.
• The more the disks are used, the more fragmented they become, so the read/write head has to move to more locations to read all the parts of a file.
• Fragmentation is the reason that files on the college's computers take a long time to open.

What defragmentation software does

• It reorganises the blocks of each file so that they are stored together (contiguously) on the disk.
• It collects the free space into one block so that new files are written in one piece and are less likely to be fragmented.
• It is a housekeeping utility that is often supplied with the operating system, and it reorganises data that is already on the disk.
• It does not change the contents of any file, it only changes where the blocks of the file are stored.

Benefits of running it

• Files and programs open faster because the read/write head makes fewer movements, so the older computers feel quicker without the college buying new hardware.
• Free space in one block means new files are written in one piece, so the improvement lasts for a while.
• Running it may mean the college can keep using the older computers for longer instead of replacing them.

Drawbacks of running it

• It can take a long time to run, so it should be scheduled for when the room is not in use, such as overnight or at weekends.
• It causes a lot of disk activity, so running it too often puts unnecessary strain on the disks.
• It does not free up any space, as no files are deleted, so the disks will still be almost full.
• It only reorganises files that are intact, so it cannot recover a corrupted file, and a backup is still needed.

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)

Level 3 responses must cover both how files become fragmented and what defragmentation software does, with at least one benefit or drawback applied to the college's computers. An answer that only states what the software does and one benefit, with no explanation of how files became fragmented and no drawback, is Level 1 (2 marks).

Do not accept: defragmentation software compresses files, frees up storage space, deletes unused files, repairs corrupted files, or speeds up the processor or internet connection.