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Computing (9691) - Oyster International School & Junior College

1. The emphasis is on analysing an existing system and producing a computer based solution to fit the needs of the user At the end of the project candidates should submit a concisely written and well laid out report which should be word processed The solution may be implemented using one or more of a programming language pre written modules or toolkits applications software and programmable packages Brief descriptions of any programming languages or software packages used together with reasons for their selection should be included in the report Where the solution has involved programming the candidate should e Annotate listings e Explain each section of the program with appropriate algorithm descriptions which should be language independent e Define variables by name type and function where appropriate e Define clearly and identify the purpose of subroutines and procedures Where the solution has been produced with a software package that has not involved programming the candidate should e Explain each section of the solution with appropriate algorithm descriptions e Define the purpose and inter relationship of modules within the system e Clearly annotate the results produced The projects should contain the title a contents list a description of and a justification of the investigation analysis design and the methods used Also an evaluation and a bibliography Pages should be clearly annotated with a footer c
2. 1 A discussion of what the system limitations are 2 A detailed description of the system limitations has been given including the estimate of the size of the files required for the implemented system Software Development Testing and Implementation Total 18 marks Development and Testing 9 marks A technical description of how the solution relates to the design specification produced and agreed with the user should be included Itis the responsibility of the candidates to produce evidence of their development work and for producing a test plan for the system It is vital to produce test cases and to show that they work To do this it is necessary not only to have test data but to know what the expected results are with that data An attempt should be made to show that all parts of the system have been tested including those sections dealing with unexpected or invalid data as well as extreme cases Showing that many other cases of test data are likely to work by including the outputs that they produce is another important feature Evidence of testing is essential Comments by teachers and others are of value but the test plan must be supported by evidence in the report of a properly designed testing process The examiner must be left in no doubt the system actually works in the target environment This evidence may be in the form of hardcopy output possibly including screen dumps photographs or VHS video 1 2 Program listings
3. Software Content 1 2 1 Operating systems 1 2 2 User interfaces 1 2 3 Utility software Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a describe the purpose of operating systems b describe the characteristics of different types of operating systems and their uses batch real time single user multi user and network systems c describe different types of user interface forms menus GUI natural language and command line suggesting the characteristics of user interfaces which make them appropriate for use by different types of user d describe the purpose of the following types of utility software disk formatting file handling deleting copying moving sorting hardware drivers file compression and virus checkers 1 3 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Programming Tools and Techniques Content 1 3 1 Problem solving techniques 1 3 2 Features of procedural programming languages 1 3 3 Basic translation process 1 3 4 Program testing 1 3 5 Program maintenance Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e f 9 h i i 1 4 solve problems in a structured way using logic and reason describe techniques for writing software including the splitting up of a problem into small sections and the use of appropriate techniques showing step wise refinement top down and bottom up design explain that translators are needed to convert source code to object code detailed kn
4. ensure a healthy and safe working environment for employees 11 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 SECTION 2 PRACTICAL PROGRAMMING PROJECT This section is designed to allow candidates to develop the following skills program design program development testing implementation This section covers basic knowledge and understanding as well as skills It is expected that candidates will have studied the requisite theory in order to carry out the project successfully The Practical Programming Project is an individual piece of well documented work involving a problem that can be solved using a computing system The emphasis is on the solution of problems in a structured way using logic and reason to split a problem into sections that can be programmed using a procedural or object oriented programming language Candidates are free to choose problems tasks identified by themselves or their teacher The choice of problem task must allow the candidate to demonstrate the following programming skills in one program arrays and or records different data types selection iteration procedures functions searching techniques files Candidates may solve the same problem or use the same initial scenario for a project but the solution must be developed on an individual basis no collaborative work is allowed Teachers are expected to give educational guidance during the design process but the work submitted must be the candidate s own Only
5. of robots 3 9 4 Uses of simulation 3 9 5 Variation of parameters and conditions time steps 3 9 6 Processing requirements 3 9 7 Advantages and limitations of simulations Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e 3 10 describe real time applications explain the use of sensors and actuators for visible tactile audible and other physical signals demonstrate an understanding of the use of robots in a variety of situations such as the manufacturing process or hazardous environments explain the reasons for simulation such as to change time scales and or save costs and or avoid danger explain the large processing requirements of some systems and hence recognise the need for parallel architectures discuss the advantages of simulation in testing the feasibility of a design Common Network Environments Connectivity and Security Issues Content 3 10 1 Data transmission 3 10 2 Network components 3 10 3 Use of networks to support hyperlinking systems such as the World Wide Web WWW 3 10 4 Common network environments 3 10 5 Issues of confidentiality 3 10 6 Encryption and authentication techniques Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e f 9 h describe methods used to organise LANs and WANs and typical rates of data transmission associated with different topologies and methods demonstrate awareness of different media for transmit
6. on which the system was developed should be included Since the contents in the technical documentation will differ from one project to another professional judgement as to what would be necessary for another analyst to maintain and develop the program has to be made 1 2 Some items are present with some annotation attempted 3 One or two omissions but the rest is present and annotation is used sensibly 4 No major omissions with all parts fully annotated ii Installation Instructions 2 marks Clear guidance as friendly as possible should be given to the user on how to install the program ready for use 1 Sensible instructions on how to install the program for use 2 Comprehensive well illustrated instructions on how to install the program for use 24 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 COMPUTING Advanced GCE Unit 9691 02 Practical Programming Project Candidate Record Card Please read the instructions printed overleaf before completing this form One of these cover sheets suitably completed should be attached to the assessed work of each candidate in the moderation sample Examination session June November please delete as necessary Year 2 0 1 Centre name Centre number Candidate name Candidate number Assessment Criterion Mark Problem Task Identification max 2 Program Design max 6 Program Develop
7. the code designed and written by the candidate should be marked by the teacher The teacher marks the projects using the marking criteria in the Guidance on Marking Practical Programming Projects section of this syllabus after which moderation takes place according to CIE procedures Candidates should not submit magnetic or optical media as part of their supporting evidence 2 1 Problem Task Identification 2 marks Candidates should be able to describe a problem task that can be solved by writing a program 2 1 1 Problem Task description Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a describe a problem in terms of inputs processes and outputs 2 2 Program Design 6 marks Content Candidates should be able to specify and document a design The design specification may include the method of solving a problem for example 2 2 1 Hardware requirements 2 2 2 Input design 2 2 3 Output design 2 2 4 Data structures 2 2 5 Processes 12 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a specify the required hardware for a problem task b design and document screen layouts c design and document report layouts screen displays and or other forms of output for example audio output d design and document the data structures necessary to model a problem task e design and document a process model 2 3 Program Development 28 marks Content 2 3 1 Interpreting a design solutio
8. General Certificate of Education International Syllabus Advanced Level and Advanced Subsidiary Level COMPUTING 9691 For examination in June and November 2010 CIE provides syllabuses past papers examiner reports mark schemes and more on the internet We also offer teacher professional development for many syllabuses Learn more at www cie org uk UCLES 2008 Note for Exams Officers Before making Final Entries please check availability of the codes for the components and options in the E3 booklet titled Procedures for the Submission of Entries relevant to the exam session Please note that component and option codes are subject to change COMPUTING 9691 GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level and GCE Advanced Level for examination in 2010 Page INTRODUCTION 1 AIMS 1 ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES 2 WEIGHTING OF ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES 2 SCHEME OF ASSESSMENT 3 COURSEWORK 4 STRUCTURE OF THE SYLLABUS 5 SUBJECT CONTENT 6 GUIDANCE ON MARKING THE PRACTICAL PROGRAMMING PROJECT 9691 02 22 CANDIDATE RECORD CARD FOR THE PRACTICAL PROGRAMMING PROJECT 25 9691 02 COURSEWORK ASSESSMENT SUMMARY FORM FOR THE PRACTICAL 27 PROGRAMMING PROJECT 9691 02 GUIDANCE ON SELECTING THE COMPUTING PROJECT 9691 04 29 GUIDANCE ON MARKING THE COMPUTING PROJECT 9691 04 30 CANDIDATE RECORD CARD FOR THE COMPUTING PROJECT 9691 04 35 COURSEWORK ASSESSMENT SUMMARY FORM FOR THE COMPUTING PROJECT 37 9691 04 Exclusions This syllabus must not be offe
9. HE COMPUTING PROJECT 9691 04 The selection of the problem for which a computerised system is to be designed and implemented is extremely important It should be chosen by the candidate in consultation with the teacher and should always involve a user ideally a third party user It is important to stress that the candidate should endeavour to produce a system which is non trivial and which will solve a given problem sensibly within the constraints of resources available to the candidate Since the computing project seeks to assess the systems analysis section of the specification in a practical manner candidates should not produce a system from their own limited knowledge of the requirements of the system The third party user has to be someone who is willing to be involved in the project e inthe analysis of the problem where the user s requirements are obtained This may take the form of a recorded interview with the candidate e at the software development testing and implementation stages where the user is involved in prototyping e atthe evaluation stage where the user is involved in checking that the system is completed as specified and leading on from this is then willing to write a letter of acceptance of the system including any criticisms of it In this way candidates can be encouraged to look beyond school or college life into the businesses and companies in the community of the surrounding area
10. ation requirements of a particular application describe and explain the systematic development of high quality solutions to problems and the techniques appropriate for implementing such solutions comment critically on the social legal ethical and other consequences of the use of computers Skills Candidates should be able to 1 analyse a problem and identify the parts which are appropriate for a computer based solution select justify and apply appropriate techniques and principles to develop data structures and algorithms for the solution of problems design implement and document an effective solution using appropriate hardware software and programming languages WEIGHTING OF ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES Percentage of Advanced Level Paper Assessment Objective A Assessment Objective B Total weighting 1 25 2 102 37 5 2 52 10 2 12 5 3 152 152 30 4 5 15 2 20 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 SCHEME OF ASSESSMENT The Advanced Subsidiary GCE forms 50 of the assessment weighting of the full Advanced GCE Advanced Subsidiary GCE is assessed at a standard between IGCSE and Advanced GCE and can be taken as a stand alone course or as the first part of the full Advanced GCE course Assessment is by means of two units for Advanced Subsidiary GCE and four units for Advanced GCE Advanced Subsidiary GCE Candidates take papers 1 and 2 Advanc
11. bsidiary AS qualification only AIMS The aims of a course based on this syllabus whether leading to an AS or A Level qualification should be to 1 develop an understanding of the main principles of solving problems using computers 2 develop an understanding of the range of applications of computers and the effects of their use 3 develop an understanding of the organisation of computer systems including software data hardware communications and people 4 acquire the skills necessary to apply this understanding to developing computer based solutions to problems In addition an aim of a course leading to the full A Level qualification should be to 5 develop an understanding of the main principles of systems analysis and design methods of problem formulation and planning of solutions using computers and systematic methods of implementation testing and documentation COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES The assessment objectives are common to both the AS and A2 assessments A Knowledge with Understanding Candidates should be able to 1 B describe and explain the impact of Computing in a range of applications and show an understanding of the characteristics of computer systems hardware software and communication which allow effective solutions to be achieved describe and explain the need for and the use of various forms of data organisation and processing to support the inform
12. d electronic commerce 3 7 4 Training 3 7 5 Effects of introducing systems Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e 3 8 identify data which has commercial value explaining why such data has this value and discuss contemporary trends in the compilation and use of valuable databases explain the advantages of standardisation and describe some areas of standardisation such as file formats ISDN OSI model and its use together with communications protocols describe ways in which computers aid communication including voice mail e mail digital telephone system facilities e commerce over the internet tele videoconferencing and electronic data interchange identify situations in which the transmission of data for example over the Internet has created or could create new opportunities for businesses and individuals in particular explaining how e commerce works identify and describe training and re training requirements for a given situation describe the substantial short term and long term changes in patterns of work and in quality of output which occur as a result of introducing computing systems Systems Development Implementation Management and Applications Content 3 8 1 Methodologies and software tools for system development 3 8 2 Application types and technical requirements 3 8 3 Choice of implementation approaches direct parallel phased 3 8 4 Systems management and monitorin
13. dentify the good and bad points of the final system highlighting any limitations and necessary extensions to the system indicating how the extensions could be carried out 21 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 GUIDANCE ON MARKING THE PRACTICAL PROGRAMMING PROJECT 9691 02 Practical Programming Projects are assessed as follows Problem Task identification 2 marks Program Design 6 marks Program Development 28 marks Testing 8 marks Implementation 6 marks a Problem Task Identification Total 2 marks b c A candidate should not expect the Examiners to be familiar with the problem task that has been chosen There should be a brief description of the problem task and a clear statement of the form of data input should be given together with the required output 1 Outline of the problem to be solved 2 Description of the problem to be solved including the data input and the desired output Program Design Total 6 marks A detailed program design including diagrams as appropriate should be produced Proposed record file and data structures should be described Design of input formats with examples of screen layouts and output formats should be included here A detailed description of processes should also be included The hardware requirements must be stated 1 2 Some vague discussion of what the program will do with a brief diagrammatic representation 3 4 There is an outline of a design specification inclu
14. diary syllabus consists of teaching sections 1 and 2 only and the Advanced Level syllabus consists of all four teaching sections This section of the specifications gives the subject content for each section as shown below Section Associated Paper Section Title 1 1 Computer Systems Communications and Software 2 2 Practical Programming Project 3 3 Systems Software Mechanisms Machine Architecture Database Theory Programming Paradigms and Integrated Information Systems 4 4 Computing Project Each section is presented as a set of sub sections each with details of content and associated learning outcomes An indication of recommended prior knowledge is given for each section together with details of any links to other sections Section 1 Computer Systems Communications and Software is the foundation for all subsequent sections It provides candidates with an understanding of the core aspects of computer systems which is developed and enhanced in subsequent sections Section 2 Practical Programming Project requires candidates to demonstrate their skills in a programming language by selecting a problem to solve The solution to the problem should encompass as many of the criteria listed in Section 2 of the syllabus as the candidate is capable of using Candidates and Centres should be aware that demonstration of the skills will be necessary within the context of the problem solution in order to earn marks in the assessment It is
15. ding mock ups of inputs and outputs process model described including a diagram structure diagram data flow diagram or system flowchart However there is a lack of completeness with omissions from the process model inputs and outputs Data structures have been identified but there may be inadequate detail Or there may be some errors or logical inconsistencies for example validation specified may be inadequate or field lengths incorrect 5 6 A detailed and complete design specification which is logically correct There are also detailed written descriptions of any processes modules and a clear complete definition of any data structures Program Development Total 28 marks i Implementing the program 6 marks There is evidence that the program produces the desired results The finished program should relate clearly to the design work 1 2 Program listings are provided in the form of printouts The developed solution does not fulfil the design specification A teacher may award up to 2 marks if they have been shown the system working satisfactorily and there is no hard evidence in the project report 3 4 Program listings are provided in the form of printouts Data structures are illustrated as part of the listings where appropriate detailing their purpose The developed solution has logical flaws and is only slightly related to the design 22 d COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 5 6 Program listings are provided in the form
16. e criteria outlined in the section Guidance on Marking the Practical Programming Project which can be found at the back of this syllabus The marking criteria will not change from year to year The marked projects will be externally moderated by CIE If Centres are uncertain about the appropriateness of a problem they should seek advice from CIE A2 Section 4 Computing Project 60 marks This unit assesses candidates ability to develop a computer based solution to a real life problem requiring the skills of analysis design development testing implementation and evaluation Candidates should formulate the task in negotiation with their teacher If Centres are uncertain about the appropriateness of a problem they should seek advice from CIE Assessment and Moderation All coursework is marked by the teacher and internally standardised by the Centre Coursework is then submitted to CIE by the specified date The purpose of moderation is to ensure that the standard for the award of marks in coursework is the same for each Centre and that each teacher has applied the same standards appropriately across the range of candidates within the Centre Minimum Coursework Requirements If a candidate submits no work for a coursework unit then the candidate should be indicated as being absent from that unit on the coursework mark sheets submitted to CIE If a candidate completes any work for the coursework unit then the work should be assess
17. e mentioned in a ii and explaining the degree of success in meeting them indicating where in the project evidence can be found to support this or giving reasons why they were not met ii Evaluate the user s response to the system 3 marks iii It is important that the user is not assumed to be an expert in computer jargon so some effort must be made to ensure that the system is user friendly It will be assumed that the user will have considerable knowledge of the underlying theory of the business being computerised Clarity of menus clear on screen help and easy methods of inputting data are all examples of how the system can be made user friendly Here marks are awarded for the degree of satisfaction that the user indicates in the acceptance procedure Could the system or its results be used Was the system specification achieved Do any system faults still exist The candidate should evaluate the user s response to the final version of the system It is important that the user becomes an active participant in this section and that user responses are reported 1 Some effort has been made to make the system user friendly but the user still has difficulty using the system 2 The system is in the main user friendly but there is room for improvement e g no on screen help has been provided The user indicates that the system could be used but there are some faults which need to be rectified 3 A fully user friendly syste
18. e their use of the following programming skills arrays and or records different data types selection iteration procedures functions searching techniques files For each of the above skills 1 mark for a valid use 1 mark for correct annotation within the code Testing Total 8 marks It is the responsibility of the candidates to produce evidence of their development work and to produce a test plan for the system It is vital to produce test cases and to show that they work To do this it is necessary not only to have test data but to know what the expected results are with that data An attempt should be made to show that all parts of the program have been tested including those sections dealing with unexpected or invalid data as well as extreme cases Showing that many other cases of test data are likely to work by including the outputs that they produce is another important feature Evidence of testing is essential Comments by teachers and others are of value but the test plan must be supported by evidence in the report of a properly designed testing process The examiner must be left in no doubt the program actually works This evidence may be in the form of hardcopy output possibly including screen dumps photographs or VHS video 1 2 A collection of hardcopy test run outputs with no test plan or a test plan with no hardcopy evidence may also be present A teacher may award up to 2 marks if they have been shown the
19. eclare that to the best of my knowledge the work submitted is that of the candidate concerned have attached details of any assistance given beyond that which is acceptable under the scheme of assessment Signature Date 5 UNIVERSITY of CAMBRIDGE 8 International Examinations 35 INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETION OF THIS FORM 1 One form should be used for each candidate 2 Please ensure that the appropriate boxes at the top of the form are completed 3 Enter the mark awarded for each Assessment Criterion in the appropriate box 4 Add together the marks for the Assessment Criteria to give a total out of 60 Enter this total in the relevant box 5 Sign and date the form 36 COMPUTING 9691 04 Coursework Assessment Summary Form AJAS Level Centre Number Centre Name Candidate Teachin Total Internally Moderated Nuriber Candidate Name Grou Ea Mark Mark p max 60 max 60 Name of teacher completing this form Signature Date Name of Internal moderator 37 UNIVERSITY of CAMBRIDGE 6 International Examinations
20. ed GCE Candidates take papers 1 2 3 and 4 Weighting Paper Type of Paper Duration Marks AS A2 A 1 Written paper 2 Ah 90 75 37 5 2 ee Programming i 50 25 i 12 5 roject Written paper 2h 90 60 30 Computing Project 60 40 20 Paper 1 This paper will consist of a variable number of compulsory questions of variable mark value Candidates will answer on lined paper This paper will be set according to the content of section 1 of the syllabus Paper 2 This paper is a practical programming project Students should select a problem the solution to which will enable them to demonstrate the skills required by the syllabus in Section 2 The programming language used is at the discretion of the candidate and the Centre CIE suggest that Visual Basic Pascal C and Java would all be suitable vehicles for the production of the software However this list is not exhaustive and if a candidate would like to use another language there should not be a problem Centres can contact CIE Customer Services to ensure that another language is acceptable before beginning the work Candidates are free to select any problem for solution but should discuss their chosen problem in detail with the staff at the Centre to ensure that the solution will demonstrate their abilities to the full Candidates may receive guidance in choosing their problem but Centres should ensure that work from their candidates is sufficiently different to make them individual piec
21. ed according to the criteria and marking instructions and the appropriate mark awarded which may be 0 zero Authentication As with all coursework the teacher must be able to verify that the work submitted for assessment is the candidate s own work Sufficient work must be carried out under direct supervision to allow the teacher to authenticate the coursework marks with confidence CIE are happy to rely on the professionalism of teachers to ensure fairness with this work Differentiation In the question papers differentiation is achieved by setting questions which are designed to assess candidates at their appropriate levels of ability and which are intended to allow all candidates to demonstrate what they know understand and can do In coursework candidates should choose their project problem so that the work enables them to display positive achievement and that will allow them to demonstrate their full range of abilities Please copy the Coursework Assessment Summary Form at the back of this syllabus document and submit with both the Practical Programming Project and the Computing Project The Candidate Record card for both the Practical Programming Project and the Computing Project should be attached to each candidate s submission COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 STRUCTURE OF THE SYLLABUS This syllabus is set out in the form of teaching sections Each teaching section is assessed by its associated paper The Advanced Subsi
22. em that would allow someone else to maintain and develop it should be included for example back up procedures cycles annotated code modules data structures used and how they may be modified etc The User Manual should include step by step instructions for operating all aspects of the system including a means of dealing with any errors that may occur As well as a guide User Documentation should include appropriate Help and messages within the software solution or be present in the form of a hypertext document 20 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a develop a detailed technical manual b develop a detailed user manual 4 5 Evaluation 8 marks Discussion of the degree of success in meeting the original objectives as specified in the requirements specification ease of the use of the package acceptability to the users including where possible a letter of acceptance from the user and reference to user testing results and desirable extensions Content 4 5 1 Evaluate results against the requirement specification 4 5 2 Evaluate user testing 4 5 3 Identify the good and bad points of the final system including any limitations and necessary extensions to the system Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a evaluate the final system against the criteria described in the requirements specification b evaluate the users responses to testing the system c i
23. envisaged that this project will be a long term piece of work to be completed during year one of the course It will be submitted for moderation in the same session that the candidate offers Paper 1 In this way Centres that choose to do Papers 1 and 3 at the end of year 2 of a two year course can do one piece of coursework in each year It is envisaged that most candidates will use one of the languages listed on page 3 Other languages are welcomed though CIE Customer Services should be consulted before the project is started Section 3 Systems Software Mechanisms Machine Architecture Database Theory Programming Paradigms and Integrated Information Systems provides candidates with further ability to extend skills knowledge and understanding of computing concepts gained in Section 1 to a range of applications in which computer systems are used Section 4 Computing Project requires candidates to identify a well defined user driven problem involving a third party user and to generate a solution As for Section 2 this is done using software tools chosen by the candidate and may include a programming language an appropriate applications package or other software It is envisaged that work on the Project will begin in parallel with work on Section 3 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 SUBJECT CONTENT SECTION 1 COMPUTER SYSTEMS COMMUNICATIONS AND SOFTWARE This section provides candidates with an understanding of the following core aspect
24. es not under which circumstances it fails The test plan should be clearly cross referenced to provide evidence that the system has been tested during development and implementation User testing should be in evidence Content 4 3 1 Software development 4 3 2 Test strategy plan 4 3 3 Test data 4 3 4 Testing a software solution and planning for its implementation 4 3 5 User testing Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a implement the proposed process model using a software package and or programming language b develop the data structures of the design using the appropriate features of a software package and or programming language c develop inputs outputs using the features of a software package and or programming language d identify develop and document a test strategy for the software solution e select suitable test data to carry out the test strategy test the software solution illustrating how the software solution evolves g produce detailed output from the testing cross referencing as appropriate to the test plan h test the software solution with the user providing documented evidence that the solution works and devise a strategy for its implementation 4 4 Documentation 12 marks Content 4 4 1 Technical documentation 4 4 2 User guides The Technical Manual should include an explanation of the structure of the design and the solution All the necessary information about the syst
25. es of work This practical programming project should be completed during the first year of a two year course It may be submitted along with Paper 1 at the end of the first year in order to qualify for the award of AS in Computing or may be saved and submitted at the end of the two years in addition to Paper 1 3 and the project to qualify for the award of A Level Computing In this way Centres wishing to enter candidates for Papers 1 and 3 can complete this coursework during the first year of the course The projects will be marked by Centres and moderated by CIE Paper 3 This paper will consist of a variable number of compulsory questions of variable mark value Candidates will answer on lined paper This paper will be set according to the content of Section 3 of the syllabus but will also assume knowledge learned in Section 1 Paper 4 Further details of the project are to be found in Section 4 of the syllabus COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 COURSEWORK AS Section 2 Practical Programming Project 50 marks This unit examines knowledge and understanding as well as skills The programming project is intended to allow candidates to demonstrate their competence in the skills of program design development testing and documentation The criteria which should be followed when producing their solution are clearly set out in Section 2 of the syllabus The practical programming project will be marked at the Centre according to th
26. f sale systems marketing computer aided design CAD computer aided manufacture CAM identify suitable common generic applications software for particular application areas e g word processing spreadsheets desktop publishers DTP presentation software drawing packages identify application areas for which generic applications software is not appropriate describe the purpose and impact of different types of generic applications software for example word processing spreadsheets desktop publishers DTP presentation software drawing packages explain how a common software package can be used to solve a given simple problem 1 9 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Handling of Data in Information Systems Content 1 9 1 Data capture preparation and data input 1 9 2 Validation and verification of data 1 9 3 Outputs from a system Learning outcomes Candidates should within a context be able to a b c a e describe manual and automatic methods of gathering and inputting data into a system including form design keyboard entry voice recognition barcodes optical mark recognition OMR magnetic stripe cards optical character recognition OCR data logging touch screens describe image capture by use of a scanner video capture card and digital camera camcorder explain the techniques of validation and verification and describe validation tests which can be carried out on data describe possible
27. g Learning outcomes Candidates should within the context of a scenario be able to a b c a e identify commonly used techniques and software tools e g Gantt charts critical path analysis software and Entity Relationship diagrams used in developing computer systems describe how use of methodologies techniques and software tools for developing computer systems aid the systems analyst designer and programmer in terms of the documentation step by step logical progression through tasks and cross checking mechanisms discuss the technical requirements of a system necessary to implement a range of different computer applications including hardware operating systems communications interface software and other utility software explain the need to provide appropriate response times for different applications and its implications for hardware software and data structures select plan and justify appropriate implementation approaches for a range of different applications such as parallel phased pilot direct discuss the implications of managing monitoring and maintenance of systems including the need for up to date documentation software audit quality control and management and hardware updates 17 3 9 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Simulation and Real time Processing Content 3 9 1 Applications of real time computing 3 9 2 The feedback loop input and output sensors and actuators 3 9 3 The use
28. ies and problems apparent from discussions with the user and the analysis work that has been carried out g derive the user and information requirements of the system h specify the required hardware and give reasons for their choice i specify the required software and give reasons for their choice i develop and document a clear requirement specification 4 2 Design 11 marks Detailed system design including data structures input output format and processes involved There should be a clear design specification Content 4 2 1 Output design 4 2 2 Input design 4 2 3 Data structures model 4 2 4 Process model 19 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a design and document report layouts screen displays and or other forms of output drawing up detailed models of the proposed interface b design and document data capture forms and or screen layouts c design and document using appropriate techniques for example normalisation E R models the data structures necessary to solve the inefficiencies problems indicated in the requirements specification d design and document an algorithm pseudocode top down diagram or other form of process model 4 3 Software Development Testing and Implementation 18 marks A software solution and comprehensive test plan is developed from the design which should show that the system works with valid invalid and extreme data or if it do
29. ject A clear statement of the origins and form of data should be given At this stage the exact scope of the project may not be known and it may lead to the arranging of an interview with the user 1 Description of the organisation 2 Description of the organisation and the methods currently used in the area of the chosen project 3 Full description of the organisation and methods currently in use in the area of the chosen project with a description of the origin of the data to be used and some indication of the form that data takes ii Investigation and Analysis 8 marks i This section is the systems analysis The candidate should describe how the user requirements were ascertained possibly by long discussions with the users question and answer sessions should be recorded and outcomes agreed A clear requirements specification should be defined Alternative outline solutions should be discussed and evaluated against one another 1 2 Some elements have been discussed but little or no user involvement 3 4 Some evidence that an attempt has been made to interview the user and some recording of it has been made An attempt has been made to develop a requirement specification based on the information collected 5 6 Good user involvement and recording of the interview s Most of the necessary items have been covered including a detailed discussion of alternative approaches A requirements specification based on the info
30. m has been produced The user indicates that the system fully meets the specification given in section a and there are no known faults in the system Desirable extensions 2 marks As a result of completing the system the candidate should identify the good and bad points of the final system highlighting any limitations and necessary extensions to the system indicating how the extensions could be carried out The candidate identifies clearly good and bad points and any limitations The candidate clearly portrays the good and bad points of the system indicating the limitations possible extensions and how to carry out the extensions 34 COMPUTING Advanced GCE Unit 9691 04 Computing Project Candidate Record Card Please read the instructions printed overleaf before completing this form One of these cover sheets suitably completed should be attached to the assessed work of each candidate in the moderation sample Examination session June November please delete as necessary Year 2 0 1 Centre name Centre number Candidate name Candidate number Assessment Criterion Mark Definition Investigation and Analysis max 11 Design max 11 Software Development Testing and Implementation max 18 Documentation max 12 Evaluation max 8 Total max 60 Authentication by the teacher d
31. me items are present with some annotation attempted 3 4 One or two omissions but the rest is present and annotation is used sensibly 5 6 No major omissions with all parts fully annotated For full marks the guide should be well presented rather than just a collection of items ii User 6 marks Clear guidance as friendly as possible should be given to the user for all operations that they would be required to perform These would include input format with screens displays print options back ups file integrity routines security of access to data and a guide to common errors that may occur Note the candidate would not be required to copy out large volumes of any underlying software s user guide but to produce a non technical and easy to follow guide for someone with little computer knowledge Some mention here of the relationship between items of software and the data they deal with may be relevant The user guide should be well presented with an index and where necessary a glossary of the terms used Alternatively an electronic guide could be based around hypertext links screen dumps will be required 1 2 An incomplete guide perhaps with no screen displays Some options briefly described but difficult for the user to follow 3 4 All but one or two options fully described for example back up routines not mentioned In the main the options are easy for the user to follow with screen displays 5 6 A full use
32. memory unit and arithmetic logic unit ALU as individual parts of a processor explain the difference between types of primary memory and their uses RAM ROM describe the basic features advantages disadvantages and use of secondary storage media both magnetic and optical describe use of buffers and interrupts in the transfer of data between secondary storage and primary memory describe a range of common peripheral devices in terms of their features advantages disadvantages and uses relate the choice of peripheral device to a given application Data Transmission and Networking Content 1 6 1 Data transmission 1 6 2 Circuit switching and packet switching 1 6 3 Protocols 1 6 4 Networking Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e 9 h i i describe the characteristics of a local area network LAN and a wide area network WAN show an understanding of the hardware and software needed for a local area network LAN and for accessing a wide area network WAN describe basic network topologies bus star and ring explaining the benefits and drawbacks of each topology describe the different types of data transmission serial and parallel and simplex half duplex and duplex modes explain the relationship between bit rates and the use of data content recognise that errors can occur in data transmission and explain the use of parity checks and check sums i
33. ment max 28 Testing max 8 Implementation max 6 Total max 50 Authentication by the teacher declare that to the best of my knowledge the work submitted is that of the candidate concerned have attached details of any assistance given beyond that which is acceptable under the scheme of assessment Signature Date Es UNIVERSITY of CAMBRIDGE 8 International Examinations 25 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETION OF THIS FORM 1 One form should be used for each candidate 2 Please ensure that the appropriate boxes at the top of the form are completed 3 Enter the mark awarded for each Assessment Criterion in the appropriate box 4 Add together the marks for the Assessment Criteria to give a total out of 50 Enter this total in the relevant box 5 Sign and date the form 26 COMPUTING 9691 02 Coursework Assessment Summary Form AIAS Level Centre Number Centre Name l Total Internally Moderated S Candidate Name ai Mark Mark max 50 max 50 Name of teacher completing this form Signature Date Name of Internal moderator W UNIVERSITY of CAMBRIDGE International Examinations COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 28 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 GUIDANCE ON SELECTING T
34. ms Learning outcomes Candidates should within a context be able to a b c a give examples of and describe the differing characteristics of passive information systems and interactive information systems describe the characteristics and uses of management information systems MIS identify a range of applications requiring batch processing and applications in which a rapid response is required describe the use of knowledge based expert systems in fault diagnosis geological surveys and medical diagnosis 10 1 12 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Implications of Computer Use Content 1 12 1 Economic implications 1 12 2 Social implications 1 12 3 Legal implications 1 12 4 Ethical implications Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e 1 discuss changing trends in computer use and their economic social legal and ethical effects on society explain changes to society brought about by the introduction and use of computer systems e g changing leisure patterns and work expectations discuss steps which can be taken to protect confidentiality of data held on computer systems understand the need for data protection legislation discuss the social and ethical implications of access to information whose value is controversial discuss health and safety implications for example repetitive strain injury RSI of increased computer use including measures to
35. n 2 3 2 Developing a programmed solution Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a interpret a given process model b specify any variables and data structures needed in the solution of a problem c develop a solution using a programming language d develop inputs outputs using the features of the programming language e make use of the commenting feature of the programming language meaningful variable names indentation and modularity 2 4 Testing 8 marks Content 2 4 1 Test strategy 2 4 2 Test data 2 4 3 Testing a programmed solution Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a identify develop and document a test strategy for a given problem b select suitable test data for a given problem c testa software solution providing documented evidence that the solution works 2 5 Implementation 6 marks Content 2 5 1 Installation instructions 2 5 2 Technical Documentation Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a prepare basic installation instructions b prepare basic technical documentation for the software solution 13 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 SECTION 3 SYSTEMS SOFTWARE MECHANISMS MACHINE ARCHITECTURE DATABASE THEORY PROGRAMMING PARADIGMS AND INTEGRATED INFORMATION SYSTEMS The content includes the functions of operating systems the functions and purposes of translators computer architectures and the fetch execute cycle data representation data
36. n detecting and correcting these errors explain the difference between packet switching and circuit switching define the term protocol describe the need for communication between devices and between computers and explain the need for protocols to establish communication links candidates will not be expected to have detailed knowledge of specific protocols discuss the advantages and disadvantages of networking 1 7 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Systems Development Life Cycle Content 1 7 1 Identification of problem 1 7 2 Feasibility study 1 7 3 Information collection 1 7 4 Analysis of a problem based upon information collected including producing a requirements specification 1 7 5 Design of system to fit requirements 1 7 6 Development and testing of system 1 7 7 Implementation of system 1 7 8 Maintenance of system 1 7 9 Obsolescence Learning outcomes Candidates should with reference to particular applications be able to a b c a e f 9 h i i 1 8 understand the system life cycle as an iterative process explain the importance of defining a problem accurately describe the function and purpose of a feasibility study explain the importance of determining the information requirements of a system and describe different methods of fact finding including questionnaires observation and structured interviews highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each method desc
37. of printouts Data structures are illustrated as part of the listings where appropriate detailing their purpose There is a full set of printouts showing input and output as well as data structures The program is clearly related to the design All hardcopy is fully annotated and cross referenced ii Using Good Programming Style 6 marks Program listings should be easily readable There should be a header identifying the program that contains the program name author school or college programming language used revision number date and purpose The program should be self documenting All data declarations should have explanatory comments identifiers should have meaningful variable names programs functions and procedures should be clearly named well separated and fully commented suitable indentation should be used to set out the programming constructs used Program listings must contain all the code written by the candidate If any library routines or automatically generated code is included this must be clearly identified and not taken into account for assessment purposes 1 2 Program listings are not easily readable and have few comments or comments are handwritten on the listing 3 4 The program listing shows some attention to good style but not all elements are included 5 6 The program listing is easily readable and shows considerable attention to good style iii Programming Skills 16 marks Candidates must demonstrat
38. on an informative diary or log of problems encountered has been kept 3 A complete discussion of the hardware and software available and how they were suitable in solving the given problem together with a good informative explanation of the problems encountered and how they were overcome 32 d e i COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Documentation Total 12 marks Technical Documentation 6 marks Much of the documentation will have been produced as a by product of design and development work and also as part of writing up the report to date However a technical guide is a stand alone document produced to facilitate easy maintenance and upgrade of a system The contents of the guide should where relevant include the following record file and data structures used database modelling and organisation including relationships screens reports and menus data dictionary data flow or navigation paths annotated program listings detailed flowcharts details of the algorithms and formulae used All parts of the guide should be fully annotated since this is important for subsequent development of the system The specifications of the hardware and software on which the system can be implemented should be included Since the system in the technical guide will differ from one project to another professional judgement as to what would be necessary for another analyst to maintain and develop the system has to be made 1 2 So
39. onstrate the integrative aspects of the work and should avoid needless repetition of the demonstration of a given skill Each candidate must submit a report on their piece of work supported by evidence of software development and testing The teacher marks the projects using the marking criteria in the Guidance on Marking Projects section of this syllabus after which moderation takes place according to CIE procedures 4 1 Definition Investigation and Analysis 11 marks Explanation of the problem to be solved the user s requirements and how they were obtained There should be a clear statement of requirements agreed with the prospective user Content 4 1 1 Define a problem 4 1 2 Investigate the current system 4 1 3 Record findings 4 1 4 Analyse findings 4 1 5 Identify problems inefficiencies with current system 4 1 6 Specify requirements user hardware software Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a define the nature of the problem to be solved b identify methods by which to investigate the problem including questionnaires observation and structured interviews c record information data and gather sample documents currently used d identify the current processes and current data structures e analyse the data and processes candidates will be expected to use appropriate techniques such as structure diagrams data flow diagrams system flowcharts to illustrate their analysis f specify inefficienc
40. onstrate the system or by taking the system to the user involved There should be an implementation plan written including details of system changeover training required and details of user testing 1 2 Details of system changeover have been documented with some recognition that the user s will require training Some evidence of user testing is given usually by questionnaire or written comments by fellow students or others who were not directly involved in the development of the system 3 4 A good implementation plan with details of training required There is written evidence available from the third party user indicating that they have seen the system in operation 5 6 A clear and detailed implementation plan including detailed stages of user testing All aspects of user testing user acceptance implementation and system changeover have been documented There is written evidence available from the user that they have used the system and agree with the strategy for implementation Appropriateness of structure and exploitation of available facilities 3 marks Some discussion of the suitability of methods and any product e g hardware or software used for the particular system should be included Some recognition and discussion of the problems encountered and actions taken when appropriate should also be included A log of such problems should be kept 1 Some attempt at discussing the suitability of the hardware and software 2 In additi
41. ontaining the candidate name and the page number Appropriate evidence of development testing and implementation such as screen dumps of photographs of screen layouts and printouts paper based user documentation and a letter from the third party user to say that the system has been developed satisfactorily must support the report Candidates should not submit magnetic or optical media as supporting evidence The computing project may involve programming or the tailoring of generic software packages and may also involve the choosing and installing of hardware It is not intended that any method of solution is better than another merely that the solution must be one that suits the problem that is being solved 29 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 GUIDANCE ON MARKING THE COMPUTING PROJECT 9691 04 Computing projects are assessed as follows Definition Investigation and Analysis 11 marks Design 11 marks Software Development Testing and Implementation 18 marks Documentation 12 marks Evaluation 8 marks a Definition Investigation and Analysis Total 11 marks i Definition nature of the problem 3 marks b A candidate should not expect the Examiners to be familiar with the theory and practice in the area of the chosen system There should be a brief description of the organisation for example firm or business involved and the current methods used in the chosen areas that may form the basis of the pro
42. or evidence of tailoring of a software package is provided in the form of printouts but with no annotation or relationship to a test plan or test run The developed solution does not fulfil the design specification A collection of hardcopy test run outputs with no test plan or a test plan with no hardcopy evidence may also be present A teacher may award up to 2 marks if they have been shown the system working satisfactorily and there is no hard evidence in the project report 31 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 3 4 Program listings or evidence of tailored software packages are provided in the form of printouts Data structures are illustrated as part of the listings where appropriate detailing their purpose There is some annotation evident to illustrate how the package was tailored for a particular purpose or to indicate the purpose of sections of code in a program listing The developed solution has logical flaws and does not fulfil the design specification There is little evidence of testing with a badly developed test plan with clear omissions There is no description of the relationship between the structure of the development work and the testing in evidence 5 7 Program listings or evidence of tailored software packages are provided in the form of printouts Data structures are illustrated as part of the listings where appropriate detailing their purpose There is some annotation evident to illustrate how the package was tailored for a par
43. output formats such as graphs reports interactive presentations sound video images and animations stating the advantages and disadvantages of each format discuss the need for a variety of output formats according to the target audience Knowledge of timeliness relevance etc of intended output is required Designing the User Interface Content 1 10 1 Interface design 1 10 2 Criteria for selecting appropriate hardware Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e discuss the importance of good interface design select appropriate peripheral hardware including special purpose input devices for a given application and justify the choice discuss human computer interaction HCI design issues such as the use of colour layout and content distinguish between different styles of interface including forms menus command line input natural language speech direct manipulation and their relevance to application design identify the required characteristics of a user interface with respect to information type of user physical location and current technology understand the potential problem of speed mismatch between user peripheral and processor Characteristics of Information Systems Content 1 11 1 Passive versus interactive systems 1 11 2 Characteristics and uses of management information systems 1 11 3 Batch processing and rapid response applications 1 11 4 Knowledge based syste
44. owledge of the types of translator and the translation process is not required describe and give examples of types of programming error syntax logic and arithmetic design a test plan using different testing strategies such as white box testing black box testing alpha and beta testing select suitable test data for a given problem describe and use appropriately the tools techniques and methods available for identifying programming errors translator diagnostics debugging tools desk checking bottom up programming test strategies demonstrate an understanding of the need for the use of comments meaningful data names indentation and modularity in order to facilitate the ongoing maintenance of programs dry run an algorithm given in a pseudo code format produce an algorithm in whatever form to solve a simple problem Data Its Representation Structure and Management Content 1 4 1 Data types 1 4 2 Data structures 1 4 3 Data management Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e 9 h i k explain the use of codes to represent a character set e g ASCII and EBCDIC explain the use of different data types integer Boolean date time currency and character express integers in binary form express numbers in binary form define and use arrays single and multi dimensional for solving simple problems including initialising arrays reading data into arrays and perfo
45. program working satisfactorily and there is no hard evidence in the project report 23 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 3 4 There is little evidence of testing with a badly developed test plan with clear omissions There is no description of the relationship between the structure of the development work and the testing in evidence 5 7 The developed solution partially fulfils the design specification There should be at least eight different test runs together with a test plan and hardcopy evidence However the test plan has omissions in it and or not all cases have been tested 8 A comprehensive test plan with evidence of each test run is present in the report together with the expected output The test plan should cover all aspects of the programming designed to cover the topics in c iii and demonstrate their effective use within the boundaries of the solution Implementation Total 6 marks Technical Documentation 4 marks Much of the documentation will have been produced as a by product of design and development work and also as part of writing up the report to date The following should be included record file and data structures used data dictionary data flow or navigation paths annotated program listings detailed flowcharts details of the algorithms and formulae used These should be fully annotated since this is important for subsequent development of the system The specifications of the hardware and software
46. r guide with all options described well presented possibly as booklet with an index and a glossary No omission of any of the options available including back up routines guide to common errors Marks may be lost for inadequate descriptions of some options For full marks good on screen help should exist where this is a sensible option Evaluation Total 8 marks Discussion of the degree of success in meeting the original objectives 3 marks This discussion should demonstrate the candidate s ability to evaluate the effectiveness of the completed system The original objectives stated in requirements specification should be matched to the achievements taking into account the limitations User evaluation is also essential and should arise from a questionnaire or preferably direct user evaluation For full marks it is important that the user provides sets of data as they are likely to occur in practice and that the results arising from such data be given This data is typical data rather than test data and it may show up faults or problems that the candidate s own test data failed to find 33 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 1 Some discussion about the success or otherwise of the work but with no reference to the specification set out in a ii 2 Some discussion about a number of the objectives set out in a ii but some omissions or inadequate explanation of success or failure 3 A full discussion taking each objectiv
47. red in the same session with any of the following syllabuses 9754 Computing Singapore 9713 Applied Information and Communication Technology COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 INTRODUCTION This syllabus is designed to give greater flexibility both to teachers and to candidates It is envisaged that students will utilise the skills and knowledge of computing in one of three ways Firstly to provide a general understanding and perspective of the use of computer technology and systems which will inform their decisions and support their participation in an increasingly technologically dependent society Secondly to provide the necessary skills and knowledge to seek employment in areas that utilise computing Thirdly students may continue to develop their knowledge and understanding of computing through entry to higher education where this qualification will provide a useful foundation for further study of computing or more specialist aspects of computing Centres and candidates may choose e to take all Advanced Level components in the same examination session leading to the full A Level e to follow a staged assessment route to the Advanced Level by taking the Advanced Subsidiary AS qualification in an earlier examination session Subject to satisfactory performance such candidates are then only required to take the final part of the assessment referred to in this syllabus as A2 leading to the full A Level e to take the Advanced Su
48. rency directory services security and network printing The Functions and Purposes of Translators Content 3 2 1 Types of translators 3 2 2 Lexical analysis 3 2 3 Syntax analysis 3 2 4 Code generation 3 2 5 Linkers and loaders Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b describe the difference between interpretation and compilation describe what happens during lexical analysis 14 c a e 3 3 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 describe what happens during syntax analysis explaining how errors are handled explain the code generation phase explain the purpose of linkers and loaders Computer Architectures and the Fetch Execute Cycle Content 3 3 1 Von Neumann architecture 3 3 2 Registers purpose and use 3 3 3 Fetch execute cycle 3 3 4 Parallel processors Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c 3 4 describe basic Von Neumann architecture identifying the need for and the uses of special registers in the functioning of a processor describe in simple terms the fetch decode execute reset cycle and the effects of the stages of the cycle on specific registers discuss parallel processor systems their uses and their advantages and disadvantages Data Representation Data Structures and Data Manipulation Content 3 4 1 Number systems 3 4 2 Floating point binary 3 4 3 Normalisation of floating point binary numbers 3 4 4 Implementation of data structures incl
49. rent types of language 3 5 3 Methods for defining syntax Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e 9 h i i Note 3 6 describe with the aid of examples the characteristics of a variety of programming paradigms low level object orientated declarative and procedural explain with examples the terms object oriented declarative and procedural as applied to high level languages explain how functions procedures and their related variables may be used to develop a program in a structured way using stepwise refinement describe the use of parameters local and global variables as standard programming techniques explain how a stack is used to handle procedure calling and parameter passing discuss the concepts and using examples show an understanding of data encapsulation classes and derived classes and inheritance when referring to object oriented languages discuss the concepts and using examples show an understanding of backtracking instantiation and satisfying goals when referring to declarative languages explain the concepts of direct indirect and indexed addressing of memory when referring to low level languages using examples describe the nature and purpose of 3rd and 4th generation languages explain the need for and be able to apply BNF Backus Naur form and syntax diagrams Candidates will not be expected to use any particular form to present algorithms but sho
50. ribe what is involved when analysing the requirements of a system explaining the nature of the requirements specification and its content identify inefficiencies problems user requirements and hardware and software requirements design the data structures inputs outputs and processing using diagrammatic representations where appropriate explain the importance of evaluating the system against initial specifications explain the content and importance of documentation in the system life cycle including the requirements specification design specification program specifications technical and user manuals explain the importance of system testing and implementation planning explain the purpose of maintaining the system and explain the need for system review and reassessment understanding that software has a limited life span Choosing Applications Software for Application Areas Content 1 8 1 Custom written software versus off the shelf software packages 1 8 2 Application areas 1 8 3 Applications software Learning outcomes Candidates should within context be able to a b c a e distinguish between custom written software and off the shelf software packages and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each in given situations identify the features of common applications found in business commercial and industrial applications e g stock control order processing payroll process control point o
51. rmation collected is present but with some omissions 7 8 Excellent user involvement with detailed recording of the users requirements Alternative approaches have been discussed in depth The report demonstrates a thorough analysis of the system to be computerised A detailed requirements specification based on the information collected has been produced Design Total 11 marks Nature of the solution 7 marks A detailed systems design including diagrams as appropriate should be produced and agreed with the users Proposed record file and data structures should be described and design limitations should be included Design of data capture forms input formats with examples of screen layouts and output formats should be included here where relevant A detailed summary of the aims and objectives should also be included These items are the design specifications which should be agreed with the user 30 c COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 1 2 Some vague discussion of what the system will do with a brief diagrammatic representation of the new system 3 4 The major objectives of the new system have been adequately summarised but omissions have been made There is a brief outline of a design specification including mock ups of inputs and outputs process model described including a diagram structure diagram data flow diagram or system flowchart However there is a lack of completeness with omissions from the process model input
52. rming a simple serial search on an array define and use linked lists single pointer for solving simple problems including initialising linked lists and performing a simple serial search on a linked list detailed algorithms are not expected describe the LIFO and FIFO features of the data structures stacks and queues explain how data is stored in files in the form of fixed length records comprising items in fields design a record format estimate the size of a file define and explain the difference between serial sequential indexed sequential and random access to data using examples and stating their comparative advantages and disadvantages o m n 1 5 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 describe how serial sequential and random organisation of files may be implemented using indexes and hashing algorithms as appropriate detailed algorithms and procedures will not be required select appropriate data types data structures for a given problem and explain the advantages and disadvantages of alternative choices explain the procedures involved in backing up data and archiving including the difference between data that is backed up and data that is archived Hardware Content 1 5 1 Processor components 1 5 2 Primary and secondary storage 1 5 3 Peripheral devices Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e 1 6 describe the function and purpose of the control unit
53. s and outputs Data structures have been identified but there may be inadequate detail 5 6 A clear set of objectives have been defined and a full design specification is included but there may be some errors or logical inconsistencies for example validation specified may be inadequate or field lengths incorrect There is clear evidence that a response to the design has been obtained from the end user and any comments have been acted upon 7 A clear set of objectives with a detailed and complete design specification which is logically correct There are also detailed written descriptions of any processes modules and a clear complete definition of any data structures The specification is sufficient for someone to pick up and develop an end result using the software and hardware specified in the requirements specification ii Intended benefits 2 marks There should be some discussion of the relative merits of the intended system and of the previous mode of operation This may include any degree of generality beyond the original scope of the system 1 One valid benefit of the new system has been identified and explained 2 The benefits of the new system have been comprehensively described iii Limits of the scope of the solution 2 marks i This may include volume sizing limitations and limitations of the facilities used For full marks there must be some estimate of the size of the files required for the implemented system
54. s of computer systems components of a computer system and modes of use system software programming tools and techniques data their representation structure and management hardware data transmission and networking The systems development life cycle is studied with reference to particular applications Therefore candidates are expected to look at a range of different types of application areas Although candidates are not expected to have specific knowledge of every one candidates should be able to make use of relevant examples for the purpose of illustration This section also provides candidates with understanding of the following aspects of computer systems systems development life cycle choosing applications software for application areas handling of data in information systems characteristics of information systems implications of computer use 1 1 Components of a Computer System and Modes of Use Content 1 1 1 Types of hardware 1 1 2 Types of software Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a define the terms hardware software input device storage device and output device b describe the purpose of input devices storage devices and output devices c define the different types of software operating system user interface translator utilities programming languages and generic common applications software d describe the hardware used to enable computers to communicate 1 2 System
55. structures and data manipulation programming paradigms databases use of systems and data systems development implementation management and applications simulation and real time processing common network environments connectivity and security issues Recommended Prior Knowledge Candidates should have studied Section 1 3 1 The Functions of Operating Systems Content 3 1 1 Features of operating systems 2 Scheduling 3 Interrupt handling 4 Job queues and priorities 5 Memory management 6 Spooling 7 Modern personal computer operating systems Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e f 9 3 2 describe the main features of operating systems memory management scheduling algorithms and distributed systems explain how interrupts are used to obtain processor time and how processing of interrupted jobs may later be resumed typical sources of interrupts should be identified and any algorithms and data structures should be described define and explain the purpose of scheduling job queues priorities and how they are used to manage job throughput explain how memory is managed in a typical modern computer system virtual memory paging and segmentation should be described describe spooling explaining why it is used describe the main components of a typical desktop PC operating system describe the main components of a network operating system including transpa
56. ticular purpose or to indicate the purpose of sections of code in a program listing The developed solution partially fulfils the design specification There should be at least eight different test runs together with a test plan and hardcopy evidence However the test plan has omissions in it and or not all cases have been tested 8 9 Program listings or evidence of tailored software packages are provided in the form of printouts Data structures are illustrated as part of the listings where appropriate detailing their purpose There is a full set of printouts showing input and output as well as data structures All hardcopy is fully annotated and cross referenced A comprehensive test plan with evidence of each test run is present in the report together with the expected output The test plan should cover as many different paths through the system as is feasible including valid invalid and extreme cases Marks may be lost for lack of evidence of a particular test run or lack of expected results ii Implementation 6 marks iii It is recognised that the user organisation preferably third party may not fully implement the system although this is the ultimate aim However to score any marks in this section there must be some evidence that the person for whom the system was written has seen the system in operation This can be done in a number of ways such as by inviting the user to see the product and allowing the candidate to dem
57. ting data and their carrying capabilities explain the different purposes of network components including switches routers bridges and modems discuss common network environments such as intranets the Internet and other open networks their facilities structure and ability to exchange information using appropriate software and techniques describe the purpose of hypertext linking identifying the means by which it can be achieved such as hotwords links buttons and hypertext mark up language HTML describe the basic features of mark up languages describe the facilities provided by electronic mail systems responding filing copying attaching sending on and multiple recipients discuss the problem of maintaining confidentiality of data on an open network and how to address this problem explain the need for encryption authorisation and authentication techniques candidates will not be expected to know any specific method in detail 18 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 SECTION 4 COMPUTING PROJECT The project is a substantial piece of work requiring analysis and design over an extended period of time which is organised evaluated and presented in a report Candidates choose in conjunction with their teacher a well defined user driven problem which enables them to demonstrate their skills in Analysis Design Software Development Testing Implementation Documentation and Evaluation Projects should be chosen to dem
58. uding linked lists stacks queues and trees 3 4 5 Searching and sorting Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e 9 h i i k 1 m express numbers in binary coded decimal BCD octal and hexadecimal describe and use two s complement and sign and magnitude to represent positive and negative integers perform integer binary arithmetic addition and subtraction demonstrate an understanding of floating point representation of a real binary number normalise a floating point binary number discuss the trade off between accuracy and range when representing numbers in floating point form explain the difference between static and dynamic implementation of data structures highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each describe algorithms for the insertion and deletion of data items stored in linked list stack and queue structures describe the insertion of data items into a sorted binary tree structure explain the difference between binary searching and serial searching highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each explain the difference between insertion sort and merge sort describe algorithms for implementing insertion sort and merge sort methods describe the use of a binary tree to sort data 15 3 5 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Programming Paradigms Content 3 5 1 Types of languages and typical applications 3 5 2 Features of diffe
59. uld be able to write procedural algorithms in some form Candidates will not be expected to write or interpret the meaning of simple segments of low level language code A detailed knowledge of the syntax of programming languages is not required Databases Content 3 6 1 Database design 3 6 2 Normalisation and data modelling 3 6 3 Methods and tools for analysing and implementing database design 3 6 4 Control of access to relational database elements Learning outcomes Candidates should be able to a b c a e 9 describe flat files network hierarchical and relational databases design a simple relational database to the third normal form 3NF defining tables and views of data draw entity relationship E R diagrams to represent diagrammatically the data model explain the advantages that using a relational database gives over flat files define and explain the purpose of primary secondary and foreign keys explain the importance of varying the access allowed to database elements at different times and for different categories of user describe the structure of a database management system DBMS including the function and purpose of the data dictionary data description language DDL and data manipulation language DML 16 3 7 COMPUTING 9691 A AS LEVEL 2010 Use of Systems and Data Content 3 7 1 The commercial value of data 3 7 2 The importance of standards 3 7 3 Communications an

Computing (9691) - Oyster International School & Junior College

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Computing (9691) - Oyster International School &amp; Junior College

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Computing (9691) - Oyster International School & Junior College