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Paper 1 + 2
Exam Overview and Assessment Objectives
Both
Balance practical skills with technical vocabulary.
Key Facts
- Paper 1 and Paper 2 are both 1 hour 30 minutes and 100 marks.
- Use precise technical vocabulary and avoid vague statements.
- Most 6-9 mark questions require structure and evaluation.
- Draw clear diagrams for networks and CPU architecture.
Topics Covered
Paper 1 Breakdown
What you need to know
- •Algorithms, programming, and problem solving are heavily assessed.
- •Expect trace tables, pseudocode, and short code snippets.
Exam Tips
- Practise dry-running algorithms to avoid logic errors.
Paper 2 Breakdown
What you need to know
- •Systems, networks, data, and security are core topics.
- •Longer explain and evaluate questions are common.
Exam Tips
- Use real-world examples to strengthen explanations.
Maths and Data Skills
What you need to know
- •Binary conversions, data sizes, and arithmetic are frequent.
- •Show working clearly to secure method marks.
Exam Tips
- Memorise powers of two and data size units.
Key Terms
algorithm
A step-by-step method to solve a problem.
pseudocode
Structured English used to describe algorithms.
evaluation
Weighing advantages and disadvantages with judgement.
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Common Exam Questions
Explain how you would structure a 9-mark evaluation answer.
9 marksmediumPaper 1 + 2
Model Answer
Give 2-3 balanced points, each with evidence, then reach a justified conclusion.
What examiners want to see
- ✓Balance
- ✓Use of evidence
- ✓Final judgement
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