OCR GCSE Sample Paper Walkthrough

Introduction

• Walkthrough of the OCR GCSE sample paper one.
• Sample paper created to simulate a real exam paper.
• Only paper available on OCR's website at the time of recording.
• Encouragement to independently attempt the paper under exam conditions.
• Importance of using the mark scheme for self-assessment.
• Discussion of indicative grade boundaries, as actual grade boundaries are not set for sample papers.

Exam Overview

• Paper titled "Computer Systems" covering:
  • Hardware
  • Software
  • Data Representation
  • Networking
  • Security
  • Impacts
• Paper is 50% of the total grade.
• Duration: 90 minutes, no calculators allowed.
• Paper is out of 80 marks.
• Standard technique: 1 minute per mark, leaving 10 minutes for review.
• Importance of checking answers due to common mistakes.
• Quality of Written Communication (QWC) question included.

Question Breakdown

Question 1: CPU Specifications

• Compare two CPUs based on clock speed, cache, and cores.
• Identify reasons one CPU runs faster (e.g., more cores).
• Identify other components improving computer performance (e.g., RAM, SSD).
• Explain cache size impact on CPU performance.
• Identify events in the fetch-execute cycle.

Question 2: Secondary Storage

• Define secondary storage as long-term, non-volatile storage.
• Identify types of storage: Magnetic, Solid State, Optical.
• Consider characteristics when choosing storage (e.g., speed, portability).

Question 3: RAM and ROM in Satnav

• Distinguish functions between RAM and ROM.
• Define embedded systems as special-purpose computers built into other devices.
• Identify devices with embedded systems (e.g., washing machines, cars).

Question 4: Audio Conversion

• Describe digital conversion process from analog sound.
• Effects of increased sample rate on quality and file size.

Question 5: Binary Operations

• Convert binary to decimal.
• Perform binary shifts and understand their effects (e.g., divide by 4 for right shift).

Question 6: ASCII Representation

• Explain how words are represented in ASCII code.
• Use 8 bits per ASCII character.

Question 7: Network Protocols and Layers

• Define network protocol and layer.
• Advantages of using layers in protocols.
• Benefits of star topology in networks.

Question 8: System Security

• Methods to protect a network (e.g., encryption, firewalls).
• Errors staff can make and procedures to prevent them.

Question 9: Disk Fragmentation

• Explain fragmentation and its impact on performance.
• How defragmentation improves system speed.

Question 10: Cloud Storage and WAN

• Define WAN as a network over a large geographical area.
• Advantages and disadvantages of cloud storage.
• Apply legislation to scenarios (Data Protection, Computer Misuse, Copyright).

Question 11: Discussing Smartphone Upgrades

• Discuss cultural, ethical, and environmental impacts of frequent smartphone upgrades.
• Structure answers to include multiple perspectives and ensure coherent arguments.

Exam Strategy

• Importance of reviewing answers, especially for the long-answer question.
• Be cautious with answer changes, but provide additional examples if possible.