F3 COMP OPENER TERM 3 2026 MS

COMPUTER STUDIESFORM 3 TERM 3 OPENER EXAMINATION 2026MARKING SCHEME

SECTION A:

1. (a) Computer system definition: A collection of hardware, software, user/liveware, and data components that work together to perform input, processing, storage, and output operations under program control. (1 mark - B1)

(b) Differences between RAM and Hard Disk (3 marks - B1 each, max 3):- RAM is volatile (loses data when power is lost), Hard Disk is non-volatile (permanent storage).- RAM has significantly faster access speed compared to Hard Disk.- RAM has smaller storage capacity compared to Hard Disk.- RAM holds currently active programs and data; Hard Disk stores files, OS, and user data long-term.

2. (a) Convert 5310 to 8-bit binary (2 marks):- 53 / 2 = 26 rem 1- 26 / 2 = 13 rem 0- 13 / 2 = 6 rem 1- 6 / 2 = 3 rem 0- 3 / 2 = 1 rem 1- 1 / 2 = 0 rem 1- Read bottom to top: 1101012 (M1 for division/working)- Pad to 8-bit: 001101012 (A1 for correct 8-bit output)

(b) Convert 10110112 to Hexadecimal (2 marks):- Group into 4 bits from right: 01012 | 10112 (M1 for grouping)- 01012 = 5- 10112 = 11 = B16- Answer: 5B16 (A1 for correct hex representation)

3. (a) Control Unit function: Fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and directs/coordinates the timing and execution of operations across all computer units. (1 mark - B1)

(b) ALU role: Performs arithmetic operations (e.g., addition, subtraction) and logical operations/comparisons (e.g., AND, OR, NOT, <, >) on data during execution. (2 marks - B1 for arithmetic, B1 for logic)

(c) Data Bus vs Address Bus: Data bus is bidirectional and transfers actual data/instructions between CPU and memory/peripherals; Address bus is unidirectional and carries memory address locations specified by the CPU. (2 marks - B1 each)

4. (a) Operating System definition: Core system software that manages computer hardware resources, software applications, and provides a user interface. (1 mark - B1)

(b) OS File management methods: Directory/Folder hierarchy structures, File Allocation Tables (FAT/NTFS), File access permissions/security controls. (2 marks - B1 each for two valid methods)

5. Cold Booting vs Warm Booting (3 marks):- Cold booting: Starting a computer from a completely powered-off state; initiated by pressing the physical Power button. (1.5 marks)- Warm booting: Restarting a computer that is already powered on; initiated by selecting 'Restart' from the OS menu or pressing Ctrl+Alt+Del. (1.5 marks)

6. (a) Computer virus: A malicious software program designed to replicate itself and spread between computers, corrupting files or disrupting system operation. (1 mark - B1)

(b) Malware symptoms (2 marks - B1 each for two):- Unusually slow system performance.- Unexplained file corruption or disappearance.- Unexpected pop-up windows/messages.- Frequent system crashes or reboots.

7. Off-the-shelf vs Bespoke software (4 marks):- Off-the-shelf: Mass-produced software commercially available to the general public (e.g., MS Office). Advantage: Cheaper, immediately available, thoroughly tested. (2 marks)- Bespoke software: Custom-developed software specifically tailored to meet a specific client's unique needs. Advantage: Tailored to exact business requirements, unique competitive edge. (2 marks)

8. (a) Electrical safety in lab: Ensure proper insulation/grounding of power cables; avoid overloading power sockets; keep liquids away from computer systems. (2 marks - B1 each for two)