Edexcel GCSE Computer Science (1CP2) Exam Questions

• A Arithmetic logic unit (1)
• The only correct answer is A. The correct answer is arithmetic logic unit.
• B is not correct because the control unit decodes instructions and controls the CPU
• C is not correct because main memory is not part of the CPU and stores data and instructions
• D is not correct because a register stores small amounts of data within the CPU

Award one mark for any of the following up to a maximum of two marks:

• Microwave (oven) (1)
• Washing machine (1)
• Dishwasher (1)
• Digital camera (1)
• Satellite navigation/satnav system (1)
• Traffic light(s) (1)
• Central heating controller/thermostat (1)
• Digital watch/fitness tracker (1)
• Vending machine (1)
• Car (as it contains embedded systems) (1)

Allow any other device that contains an embedded system.

Do not accept general purpose devices such as a laptop, desktop computer, tablet or smartphone (these can run many different programs).

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

• The battery lasts longer/needs charging less often (1) because embedded systems have low power consumption/use less power (1)
• It can be made small/light enough to wear on the wrist (1) because the processor, memory and input/output are combined on a single chip/microcontroller (1)
• It can carry out the step-counting function reliably (1) because it runs a single/dedicated program and cannot install other software (1)
• It has a low cost per unit (1) because it uses fewer/less powerful components than a general purpose computer (1)

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

Award one mark for a valid point stated on its own, e.g. 'it is small/light enough to wear on the wrist' (1) or 'its battery lasts longer before it needs charging' (1).

Accept the same linked ideas in either order, e.g. 'it uses less power (1) so the battery lasts longer (1)'.

Do not accept 'it uses less power'/'low power' on its own as a complete explanation; it must be linked to the battery lasting longer/needing charging less often for the second mark.

Do not accept an expansion that simply restates the point, e.g. 'it is small (1) so it fits on the wrist' earns only the point mark; 'fits on the wrist' is not a linked cause and is not enough for the second mark.

Do not accept 'the battery is small' as the linked reason for low power consumption.

Do not accept responses that say other software/apps can be installed on an embedded system (0); embedded systems have a single/dedicated function and cannot install new software.