A/S Level ICT Exam Technique

Remember: Simple exam technique can improve and add one grade to your result – with no extra work involved

Tip one Make enough points to earn the marks on offer Make you answers clear and concise – avoid waffle

Tip two Answer in context what features of a word processor are useful for a student. Be specific and relate your answer to context. for students, the ability to index words, create a table of contents and add footnotes is useful

give explain discuss why state identify Command words It is essential to identify the trigger or command word in a question as this signals the type of answer required give explain discuss why state identify

State & identify The trigger words state or identify require students to make one point in a short phrase or two or three words can do. state two types of…… identify two input devices……

Describe The trigger word describe require full sentence answers. Often there is one mark for identification and a second for description. E.g. describe how a network could be used in a business. [4] 2 marks for describing and two for putting into context

Define The trigger words define, give, why, what simply require students to make one point in one phrase or sentence for each on offer. Define the term data….. Identify two characteristics of a…..

Compare Compare requires students to identify and explain a feature of a topic or application which are common to both Step 1: identify the features to compare Step 2: explain how a given feature is common

An example of a compare question: Compare two features of a dot matrix and inkjet printer Step 1: identify the features to compare quality and speed Step 2: explain how a given feature relates to each feature The quality of a printed page is better in an inkjet printer while dot matrix are often quicker

An example of an Explain Question: The explain trigger word means students must describe with reasons and using continuous prose. This often involves stating the advantages and disadvantages of an issue using criteria.

Why might a business use a dot matrix printer? A firm may opt to use a dot matrix printer to print out addresses for letters sent to thousands of customers because they are cheaper and quicker than alternatives such as a laser printer. However the noise from dot matrix means firms typically run overnight batches in a sound proofed room and would quite unsuitable for an ordinary one-off office letter printing.

Discuss Discuss questions are like explain questions in that you need to describe with reasons, giving both sides of the argument using continuous prose. However you must come to a conclusion.

Quality of written Communication Up to four marks are awarded for: use of technical IT terms use of English E.g. grammar and spelling – write in sentences for the later large mark questions.

Next: Try to refer to this guide when answering your revision questions. Read all questions thoroughly and underline, circle or hi-light the important words. Make a plan at the side of the paper before you answer longer questions.