ST.

GREGORY KORU GIRLS SECONDARY SCHOOL

END OF TERM EXAM COMPUTER STUDIES
FORM 1 2021
1. Clearly define a computer 1mrk
 A computer is an electronic device that inputs data, process, stores, outputs information and
communicates to the user
 OR
 A computer is an electronic device that operates (works) under the control of programs stored in its
own memory unit.
 OR
 Computer is an advanced electronic device that accepts data as input from the user and processes
these data under the control of instructions (called programs) and produces the desired output.

2. Give one reasons why a computer is referred to as an electronic device 1mrks

 It is an electronic device because it uses electrical signals to process information/data.
 It is made up of electronic components and uses electric energy to operate.

3. Explain the following terms as used in computer studies 3mrks

a) Data
 Refers to raw facts which do not have much meaning to the user and cannot be used
for decision making. Datum is singular for data.
b) Program
 A computer program is a set of related instructions which specify how data is to be
processed.
 A set of instructions used to guide a computer through a process.
c) Information
 Information is already processed data that has meaning to the user and can be used
for decision making.
4. State three basic functions of a computer 3mrks
 Input; accept data.
 Processing; transform/convert data into information.
 Storage; stores data/ information for future use.
 Output; gives a soft and hard copies of information.
 Communication; sends information from one place to another.
5. Give two characteristics of a computer 2mrks
 Speed; computers are faster in operation.
 Accuracy; hardly makes mistakes (GIGO)
 Memory; computers have in-built memory used to store and recall (retrieve) large amount of
data compared to human memory recall.
 Capability; has the ability to perform any task provided to it following a few logical steps.
 Diligence; has the ability to perform the same task over and over again for a period of time
without getting bored.
 Versatile; computers are flexible in that they can be used to carry out different types of
activities such as typing, calculations and playing games.

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  Artificial intelligence (AI); has the ability to behave like human beings i.e. respond to
requests given to them and provide solution.
 Scientific approach; has the ability to solve highly scientific problems.

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6. State four main parts that make up a computer 2mrks

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7. Differentiate between software and hardware 2mrks
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8. List four devices located under the cover of the system unit 2mrks
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9. For each of the following generation of computers. State the technology used to control internal operations.
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1st Gen................................................................................................................................................
2nd Gen...............................................................................................................................................
3rd Gen................................................................................................................................................
4th Gen................................................................................................................................................
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10. What is meant by;
a. Analog computers 1mrk
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b. Digital computers 1mrk
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11. State two differences between desktop computers and laptop computers 2mrks
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12. State three characteristics of supercomputers 3mrks

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13. Give two differences between tower – style and desktop system units 2mrks
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14. Distinguish between dedicated computers and general purpose computers 2mrks
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15. Why is a mobile phone a computer 3mrk
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16. State any two factors used to classify computers 2mrks
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17. a. Explain the emerging trends in microcomputers technology in relation to size 3mrks
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b. Explain how computers are used in the following areas
i. Hospital 1mrks
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ii. Banking 1mrks
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iii. Law enforcement 1mrks

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18. a. Define a computer laboratory 1mrk
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b. List three factors that might have been considered when setting aside the room for computer laboratory

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c. A computer technician has observed a lot of dust on the computers in the computer laboratory. State three
precautions that need to be put in place to avoid this. 3mrks
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END GOOD LUCK