Edexcel GCSE Computer Science (1CP2) Exam Questions

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

• Attempts to repair/rebuild the corrupted file (1) so that it can be opened by its program again (1)
• Recovers/retrieves the parts of the file that can still be read (1) so that the user does not lose all of the data in the file (1)
• Reconstructs the file from data held in other parts of the disk (1) because part of the file/the disk is corrupted (1)
• Saves a new/repaired copy of the file (1) as some of the data in it may not be recoverable (1)

Do not accept 'it repairs the file' on its own, as this repeats the question.

Do not accept responses about restoring a backup/previous version of the file, as this is backup software.

Do not accept responses about scanning for or removing malware.

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

• Statements are written using words/phrases that look like English or maths (1) so the code is easier to read/understand/write (1)
• One statement is translated into several machine code instructions (1) so programs are shorter to write than in a low-level language (1)
• High-level languages provide built-in data structures such as arrays/lists/records (1) so a collection of data items can be stored and accessed under one name (1)

Do not accept responses that only give a benefit or drawback, such as 'it is easier to learn', with no characteristic.

Do not accept 'it is easier than a low-level language' without saying what the characteristic is.

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

• Splits the data/file into packets (1) so each packet can be sent separately across the network (1)
• Adds a packet/sequence number to each packet (1) so the packets can be put back into the correct order at the destination (1)
• Detects lost/missing packets (1) so they can be requested/resent (1)
• Creates a connection between the two computers/hosts (1) before the file is sent (1)

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

Allow 'segments' for 'packets' (TCP divides the data into segments, which become packets at the internet layer).

Do not accept 'sends the data/file' on its own without saying what the transport layer does to the data.

Do not accept naming TCP or a port number on its own without expansion.

Do not accept routing/addressing packets using IP addresses, which is the internet layer.

Indicative content

Administrator accounts

• An administrator account can create new user accounts for new employees and delete accounts when employees leave.
• The administrator can reset a forgotten password, so an employee can get back to work without sharing another person's account.
• The administrator can set the access rights for each user or group, so designers get access to project folders and only directors can open salary files.
• Administrator privileges should be given to only a few trusted employees, as administrators can change any settings on the system.

Standard user accounts

• Designers should use standard user accounts, so they cannot install unauthorised software or change system settings.
• A standard user can be given permission to read and write files in the project folder that their team uses.
• Standard users should not be able to change other users' permissions, so the access rules cannot be removed by accident.
• If a standard user tries to open a file without permission, the operating system denies access.

File permissions

• Each file or folder can have permissions that allow a user to read, write or delete it.
• Project folders can be set so all designers can read and write the files inside them.
• Salary files can be set so only directors can read them, and other users are denied access.
• Permissions can be set for a group of users, such as all designers, which is quicker than setting them for each person.
• A file can be made read-only for standard users, so they can view it but cannot change it.

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 administrator accounts, standard user accounts and file permissions, and apply them to the design company.

Do not accept general operating system functions such as managing the processor or memory unless they are explicitly linked to controlling what a user can access.