GCE A2

Summer 2006

Information andCommunication Technology

Mark Schemes

Issued: October 2006

Foreword

Introduction

Mark Schemes are published to assist teachers and students in their preparation for

examinations. Through the mark schemes teachers and students will be able to see what

examiners are looking for in response to questions and exactly where the marks have been

awarded. The publishing of the mark schemes may help to show that examiners are not

concerned about finding out what a student does not know but rather with rewarding students

for what they do know.

The Purpose of Mark Schemes

Examination papers are set and revised by teams of examiners and revisers appointed by the

Council. The teams of examiners and revisers include experienced teachers who are familiar

with the level and standards expected of 16- and 18-year-old students in schools and colleges.

The job of the examiners is to set the questions and the mark schemes; and the job of the

revisers is to review the questions and mark schemes commenting on a large range of issues

about which they must be satisfied before the question papers and mark schemes are finalised.

The questions and the mark schemes are developed in association with each other so that the

issues of differentiation and positive achievement can be addressed right from the start. Mark

schemes therefore are regarded as a part of an integral process which begins with the setting

of questions and ends with the marking of the examination.

The main purpose of the mark scheme is to provide a uniform basis for the marking process

so that all the markers are following exactly the same instructions and making the same

judgements in so far as this is possible. Before marking begins a standardising meeting is held

where all the markers are briefed using the mark scheme and samples of the students’ work in

the form of scripts. Consideration is also given at this stage to any comments on the

operational papers received from teachers and their organisations. During this meeting, and

up to and including the end of the marking, there is provision for amendments to be made to

the mark scheme. What is published represents this final form of the mark scheme.

It is important to recognise that in some cases there may well be other correct responses which

are equally acceptable to those published: the mark scheme can only cover those responses

which emerged in the examination. There may also be instances where certain judgements

may have to be left to the experience of the examiner, for example, where there is no absolute

correct response – all teachers will be familiar with making such judgements.

The Council hopes that the mark schemes will be viewed and used in a constructive way as a

further support to the teaching and learning processes.

NORTHERN IRELAND GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION (GCSE)

AND NORTHERN IRELAND GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION (GCE)

MARK SCHEMES (2006)

iii

CONTENTS

Page

A2 1: Module 4 1

A2 2: Module 5 9

v

ADVANCEDGeneral Certifi cate of Education

2006

Information and Communication Technology

Assessment Unit A2 1assessing

Module 4: Development of Information Systems

[A2W11]

WEDNESDAY 17 MAY, AFTERNOON

A2W1S6P

MARK SCHEME

A2W11S

1

AVAILABLE MARKS

2A2W1S6P

Information and Communication Technology

Assessment Unit A2 1

assessing

Module 4: Development of Information Systems

Mark Scheme

1 (a) The many-to-many link must be modifi ed A new entity must be created . . . KITCHENUNIT-HOUSE . . . with a composite key . . . with a one-to-many link from KITCHENUNIT to this entity . . . and a one-to-many link from HOUSE to this entity [1] for each of four points [4]

(b) There will be four tables/one table for each entity . . . each with a key attribute . . . KitchenUnitId . . . HouseId . . . BuyerId . . . KitchenUnitId_HouseId Links will be created between the tables . . . using a foreign key . . . HouseId in the BUYER table . . . using the composite key in the KITCHENUNIT-HOUSE table [1] for each of eight points [8] 12

2 (a) Eye strain/problems/epilepsy [1] . . . minimised by proper lighting levels . . . or by an adjustable screen . . . or by a screen guard/fi lter . . . by regular eye checks [1] for one point

Back/wrist strain RSI [1] . . . minimised by an adjustable chair . . . or by an adjustable keyboard . . . or by a keyboard with a wrist support/pad . . . by providing regular breaks [1] for one point Damage from radiation [1] Minimised by a screen fi lter/use a fl at, low radiation screen [1] for one point

[2] for each of three types of problem [6]

AVAILABLE MARKS

3A2W1S6P

(b) (i) Short term memory has a relatively low capacity/a short retention period Access is relatively fast The load on the user’s short term memory should be reduced The user should not be expected to remember more than seven items of information at any one time Additional information such as visual clues/icons should be provided Menu lists should be kept short Mnemonics/acronyms should be used to prompt the user The user interface should make effi cient use of short term memory

(ii) Long term memory has a high capacity/a long retention period Access is relatively slow Help facilities make use of long term memory . . . the user searches to fi nd the required information A consistent interface should be used [1] for each of six points [6] 12

3 (a) The project must be planned . . . and split up into stages/tasks/activities Resources/budgets are allocated to tasks Teams/people are allocated to tasks Hardware resources are allocated/distributed Software resources are allocated/distributed A risk analysis is carried out Tasks must be scheduled . . . and the order in which tasks must be started/completed determined The project must be monitored . . . and the plan altered if required [1] for each of fi ve points [5]

(b) (i) The modelling tool will increase productivity . . . by assisting the drawing of DFDs/ERDs Standard templates are available Diagrams can be reused . . . and a wide range of editing facilities are provided/editing will be more effi cient [1] for each of three points [3]

(ii) User interface code/program code will be produced automatically . . . from a design/outline specifi cation The code should be correct . . . and so the need for testing reduced The code should be optimized . . . leading to a more effi cient system The code can be tailored [1] for each of three points [3]

AVAILABLE MARKS

4A2W1S6P

(iii) The data dictionary will be populated automatically . . . with entities/attributes from DFDs/ERDs Validation will be performed automatically . . . and errors reported/modifi cations made The data dictionary can be edited to include documentation [1] for each of three points [3] 14

4 (a) The use of data encryption software Data is encrypted before transmission . . . using a special code . . . and decrypted when received [1] for each of two points

Allocation of user names and passwords Both are required to log on User input is checked for validity before access is permitted [1] for each of two points Use of access rights Different users have different levels of access, e.g. read only, read write [1] for each of two points [2] for each of two methods [4] (b) The database resides on a single computer/site . . . from where it can be accessed remotely . . . from local computers/sites Each local computer gets a copy of the database . . . or a copy of a subset of the database The centralised database must be updated regularly to refl ect changes made locally [1] for each of four points [4]

(c) Synchronisation of changes to the centralised database is complicated If the centralised server fails, no data is available to any user The central site must be heavily resourced Multi-user access depends upon communications link – heavy traffi c/slower access [1] for each of two drawbacks [2]

(d) A distributed database Parts of a single database are stored on a number of computers/sites Copies of the data may be distributed throughout the sites/data replication Processing takes place at each site [1] for each of four points [4] 14

AVAILABLE MARKS

5A2W1S6P

5 (a) (i) This is in-house testing testing carried out by the developer It should be performed by people not directly involved with the package’s development Includes module/integration/system testing Used to ensure the package meets its specifi cation [1] for each of three points [3]

(ii) The package is given to a number of potential users . . . who agree to test/evaluate the system This exposes the software to real use . . . and may detect problems/errors not anticipated by the developers . . . before the software is released [1] for each of three points [3]

(b) The system must be tested again to ensure that any errors have been corrected . . . and that no additional errors have been introduced (regression testing) The new modules must be tested individually Integration testing must be performed . . . involving the new modules . . . and all modules with which they interact [1] for each of four points [4] 10

6 (a) Coaxial cable consists of a central copper wire . . . surrounded by an insulation layer . . . which is itself surrounded by a copper mesh . . . which reduces the risk of electromagnetic interference All three are encased by a plastic insulation sheathing A number of coaxial pairs can be placed in a single outer sheathing The copper wire carries the signal The copper mesh serves as a ground [1] for each of fi ve points [5] (b) High data capacity/very high speed communication It can carry several hundred thousand voice communications simultaneously/permits broadband communication [1] for each of two points

No signal interference . . . as it uses light . . . which is not susceptible to electromagnetic interference [1] for each of two points

It is a secure data transmission . . . as it is diffi cult to intercept data illegally [1] for each of two points

AVAILABLE MARKS

6A2W1S6P

Data can be sent over long distances very accurately . . . with minimal loss of intensity/low signal loss . . . without the need for repeaters [1] for each of two points

It is not subject to corrosion . . . unlike metal wires [1] for each of four points

Provides electrical isolation between network nodes . . . e.g. between different buildings . . . as it uses light not electricity [1] for each of two points [2] for each of four benefi ts [8] 13

7 (a) The existing system is examined The work of a range of users may be observed Users may be asked to complete questionnaires . . . or partake in interviews Existing forms/reports may be examined Used to produce the system objectives [1] for each of four points [4] (b) The selected solution is defi ned The data that is to be processed is specifi ed The processing is identifi ed The inputs are identifi ed The organisation of the data is specifi ed The format of the output will be specifi ed Hardware and software specifi cations will be established Testing strategies will be specifi ed [1] for each of four points [4]

(c) If the user requirements cannot be established by interview/observation etc. If there is no existing system to analyse To evaluate different options To train end users [1] for one point

A non-functioning model is developed . . . and modifi ed . . . in response to feedback from the user . . . until the requirements have been established This is throwaway prototyping [1] for each of three points [3] 11

QWC 4

Total 90

Quality of Written Communication (QWC) in GCE Mark Schemes.

The assessment of quality of written communication.

Marks are to be allocated to QWC in accordance with the following criteria.

PerformanceLevel

Criteria Marks

Threshold Candidates spell, punctuate and use the rules of grammar with reasonable accuracy; they use a limited range of specialist terms appropriately.

0, 1

Intermediate Candidates spell, punctuate and use the rules of grammar with considerable accuracy; they use a good range of specialist terms with facility.

2, 3

High Candidates spell, punctuate and use the rules of grammar with almost faultless accuracy; deploying a range of grammatical constructions; they use a wide range of specialist terms adeptly and with precision.

4

7A2W1S6P

ADVANCED General Certifi cate of Education

2006

Information and Communication TechnologyAssessment Unit A2 2

assessing

Module 5: Uses of Information Systems[A2W21]

THURSDAY 25 MAY, AFTERNOON

A2W2S6P

MARK SCHEME

A2W21S

9

AVAILABLE MARKS

10A2W2S6P

1 (a) (i) A data processing system handles transactions . . . the basic day to day activities upon which an organisation depends E.g. the stock control system, POS system . . . details of stock received from suppliers/details of sales to customers [1] for each of three points [3]

(ii) An information system processes the data from a data processing system . . . to make it more usable/more understandable/in summary form In this case, by the creating of overall reports of stock movements [1] for each of three points [3]

(b) (i) The company needs to comply with laws relating to ICT/user needs to know the law . . . such as Data Protection legislation . . . and the Copyright Designs and Patent Act . . . and the Computer Misuse Act To avoid going to court, being fi ned [1] for each of two points [2]

(ii) Information about their competitors [1] . . . so that they can compete more effectively . . . by matching/beating prices . . . by matching/beating their fashion lines [1] for each of two points Information about their customers/ Demographic statistics [1] . . . to identify the age profi le of their current/future customers . . . so that they can develop appropriate fashion lines/price ranges . . . so that they can locate new stores in areas with population growth [1] for each of two points Economic factors [1] . . . such as current and future costs of materials . . . or of labour . . . or of energy/transport costs . . . so that they can produce a sound fi nancial plan [1] for each of two points General legislation e.g. taxation laws . . . so they comply with their legal requirements [2] for each of three external sources [6] 14

Information and Communication Technology

Assessment Unit A2 2

assessing

Module 5: Uses of Information Systems

Mark Scheme

AVAILABLE MARKS

11A2W2S6P

2 (a) It will assist each project leader . . . with identifying the stages in the project/the project plan . . . with allocating resources . . . with monitoring the project’s progress . . . with adjusting the project plan Day to day decisions Low level decisions Detailed information provided [1] for each of four points [4]

(b) It will assist the ICT manager . . . with deciding the projects the company undertakes . . . with the allocation of leaders to projects . . . with the allocation of budgets to projects Short/medium term decisions Less detailed information [1] for each of four points [4]

(c) Strategic level [1] This will assist the management of the company . . . in setting company goals . . . such as fi nancial targets/areas of expansion/contraction . . . or how to respond to new technologies/trends in customer requirements [1] for each of four points [4] 12

3 (a) Data is copied on a regular basis . . . and kept in a secure place/off site . . . using a portable medium, e.g. tapes Incremental backup Only data which has changed since the last backup Complete backup All data is backed up “Mirror” backup RAID A second copy of all data is maintained in real-time Grandfather, father, son [1] for each of six points [6]

(b) The personnel involved . . . such as users/network managers/ICT managers/system administrators . . . and their security responsibilities to comply with the law . . . and their rights A risk assessment . . . which identifi es what needs to be protected/the assets . . . such as hw/sw/data/people/documentation/power suppliers/consumables . . . which identifi es from what the assets need protection/the threats . . . such as unauthorised access/disclosure of information/loss of services . . . which identifi es how the assets will be protected . . . user names and passwords/access rights/fi rewalls/encryption/audit trails/

AVAILABLE MARKS

12A2W2S6P

physical measures The response to policy violations Contracts and responsibilities to outside organisations . . . police/press agencies/other companies Training requirements [1] for each of six points [6] 12

4 (a) The manual should contain a section explaining queries/reports . . . showing how to compose queries/obtain reports/showing examples/step by step instructions The user could work through this section The manual should contain a troubleshooting section . . . listing common problems . . . and how to resolve them The user could look up the problem [1] for each of four points [4]

(b) The DVD could be interactive . . . guiding the user through a sequence of steps . . . by asking the user questions . . . or by getting the user to choose from a list of options The user could search for help more effi ciently . . . using a search option [1] for each of two points

The DVD could combine sound/animation/graphics/video . . . and use voiceovers to explain functions/steps/problems . . . or animations/graphics/videos to show what the user should do [1] for each of two points

The DVD can be available on-line . . . as it is in electronic form [1] for each of two points

The DVD has a high capacity . . . and one DVD can hold as much information as many printed manuals [1] for each of two points [2] for each of two benefi ts [4]

(c) A help desk The user can call a number . . . and speak to someone who is familiar with the system/who has access to an appropriate database . . . or select from a number of options . . . to be directed automatically to a suggested solution [1] for each of three points

AVAILABLE MARKS

13A2W2S6P

On-line help When the user has a problem, he/she can click on a help icon/help menu option . . . to open up a help window . . . perhaps from a remote location/website/electronic forum The user can list the help contents/index . . . and navigate to the appropriate area . . . or input the problem into a search fi eld [1] for each of three points [3] for one method [3] 11

5 (a) The operator will have no/less paperwork to handle Stock movements will be keyed in to the system/automatically generated by the use of bar codes . . . instead of the operator having to fi ll in forms by hand The operator will be able to fi nd the location of stock much more quickly . . . instead of having to search through mountains of paperwork There may be a need for fewer operators . . . because so many tasks will be performed automatically [1] for each of four points [4]

(b) The quality of information the manager receives should be improved The amount of useful/relevant information the manager receives should be increased The manager will receive summary reports produced automatically . . . instead of having to produce these reports himself/herself from paper records The reports can use a range of graphical aids If the manager requires an ad hoc report . . . this can be produced much more quickly [1] for each of four points [4]

(c) Items of stock should always be available on the shelves . . . as items will be reordered automatically Staff should respond more quickly . . . and accurately . . . to customer queries about stock Prices should be more accurate . . . as a price change involves a single change to a record in a table [1] for each of four points [4] 12

6 (a) A decision support system is part of an/a special type of MIS/software It provides senior management . . . with the key information they need for strategic decisions e.g. unstructured decisions, ill-defi ned problems . . . using sophisticated data analysis techniques [1] for each of three points [3]

AVAILABLE MARKS

14A2W2S6P

(b) (i) This contains all the facts/and relationships between facts . . . provided by the human expert(s) [1] for each of two points [2]

(ii) A program . . . which searches the knowledge base . . . and applies the rules . . . to try to get a solution to the problem [1] for each of two points [2]

(c) The expert system can contain the knowledge of the global body of mechanics . . . not just a single mechanic [1] for each of two points

The expert system will always produce consistent results . . . unlike a human who will be inconsistent/make mistakes [1] for each of two points

The expert system will always be available . . . and does not depend upon the availability of a suitable mechanic [1] for each of two points

The car can be connected directly to the system . . . for an immediate on-screen diagnosis [2] for each of two benefi ts [4]

(d) The car mechanic can use his/her intuition . . . and bypass the methodical approach He/she may instinctively know what is wrong He/she may instantly diagnose the problem from experience [1] for each of two points [2] 13

7 (a) To create/update the schema . . . which is a precise defi nition/description of the data stored/relationships between data [1] for each of two points

To create/update user views/access rights . . . which defi ne how the user will see/use the database [1] for each of two points [2] for each of two ways [4]

(b) Searching the data in the database . . . using queries/and reports Maintaining the data in the database . . . by inserting/updating/deleting data [1] for each of four facilities [4]

AVAILABLE MARKS

15A2W2S6P

(c) The database will be normalised There will be no/minimal duplication of data . . . so searches should take the minimum of time There will be no/minimal inconsistency of data . . . so the contents of reports should always be accurate/up-to-date Data integrity will be maintained Each user will have access to exactly the data they need . . . which should minimise information overload [1] for each of four points [4] 12

QWC 4

Total 90

15

Quality of Written Communication (QWC) in GCE Mark Schemes.

The assessment of quality of written communication.

Marks are to be allocated to QWC in accordance with the following criteria.

PerformanceLevel

Criteria Marks

Threshold Candidates spell, punctuate and use the rules of grammar with reasonable accuracy; they use a limited range of specialist terms appropriately.

0, 1

Intermediate Candidates spell, punctuate and use the rules of grammar with considerable accuracy; they use a good range of specialist terms with facility.

2, 3

High Candidates spell, punctuate and use the rules of grammar with almost faultless accuracy; deploying a range of grammatical constructions; they use a wide range of specialist terms adeptly and with precision.

4

16A2W2S6P