Computer Software
14 Grade 8 Pre-Technical Studies questions on Computer Software, with worked marking schemes. 14 questions are available on this topic in full.
Question 1
1 markA learner switches on a computer and notices a program starts automatically and manages the screen, files and other programs. Which type of software performs this management role?
A. Word processor
B. Application software
C. Operating system
D. Utility game
(1 mark)
Marking scheme for this question
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1 markA treasurer wants to record income and expenses and perform automatic calculations. Which application software should the treasurer use?
A. Word processor
B. Spreadsheet software
C. Web browser
D. Presentation software
(1 mark)
Marking scheme for this question
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1 markSoftware that manages the computer's hardware and provides a platform for other programs to run is called:
A. A database
B. An operating system
C. A spreadsheet
D. A presentation program
(1 mark)
Marking scheme for this question
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1 markComputer software is best described as:
A. The monitor and keyboard
B. The physical parts of the computer
C. A set of instructions/programs that tell the computer what to do
D. The electric power supply
(1 mark)
Marking scheme for this question
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1 markWhich category of software is used to protect a computer from harmful programs such as viruses?
A. Word processing software
B. Database software
C. Utility (antivirus) software
D. Presentation software
(1 mark)
Marking scheme for this question
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1 markA teacher wants to prepare slides for a class presentation. The most suitable software is:
A. Presentation software
B. Antivirus software
C. Spreadsheet software
D. An operating system
(1 mark)
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1 markA small business owner wants a program to type letters, format paragraphs and check spelling for customer communication. Which category of software best meets this need?
A. Operating system
B. Word processing software
C. Antivirus software
D. Spreadsheet software
(1 mark)
Marking scheme for this question
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1 markSoftware that is free to use, copy and modify because its source code is openly shared is known as:
A. Firmware
B. Proprietary software
C. Open source software
D. System software
(1 mark)
Marking scheme for this question
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1 markA learner wants to type and format a class assignment. The MOST appropriate application software is a:
A. Antivirus
B. Web browser
C. Operating system
D. Word processor
(1 mark)
Marking scheme for this question
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4 marksExplain the difference between open source software and proprietary software, giving one example of each. (4 marks)
(4 marks)
Marking scheme
Open source software: its source code is freely available so users can view, use, copy and modify it, usually free of charge (1 mark) - example Linux/LibreOffice (1 mark). Proprietary software: owned by a company/developer, source code is not shared, and users must buy a licence to use it (1 mark) - example Microsoft Windows/Microsoft Office (1 mark).
Question 11
1 markWhich of the following is an example of system software?
A. Word processor
B. Operating system
C. Web browser
D. Spreadsheet program
(1 mark)
Marking scheme for this question
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4 marks(a) Distinguish between system software and application software. (2 marks) (b) Give one example of each. (2 marks)
(4 marks)
Marking scheme
(a) System software controls and manages the computer hardware and enables other programs to run, while application software is designed to help the user perform specific tasks (2 marks). (b) System software example: operating system (Windows/Linux). Application software example: word processor / spreadsheet / web browser (1 each, max 2).
Question 13
6 marksState three reasons why installing antivirus software is important on a school computer. (6 marks)
(6 marks)
Marking scheme
Any three explained (2 marks each): protects the computer from viruses/malware that can damage files; prevents loss/corruption of important data such as learner records; keeps the computer running efficiently by blocking harmful programs; protects against theft of information; prevents the spread of viruses to other computers. Max 6.
Question 14
5 marksA school computer laboratory installs various programs. (a) State three examples of application software and the task each performs. (3 marks) (b) State two functions of an operating system. (2 marks)
(5 marks)
Marking scheme
(a) Any three with correct task: word processor - typing/formatting documents; spreadsheet - calculations/data in rows and columns; presentation software - creating slides; database - storing and organising records; web browser - accessing the internet (1 each pairing, max 3). (b) Any two: manages hardware/devices; manages files and storage; provides a user interface; controls the running of programs; manages memory (1 each, max 2).
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