1. A/S Level ICT
Exam Technique

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

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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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……

7. 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

8. 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…..

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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.