COMPUTER SCIENCE PAPER 2

ZIMSEC O_LEVEL 2024

MARKING SCHEME

1. Identify and explain elements of marketing strategies

2. Ideal conditions for a business location.
3. Explain the difference between secondary storage and primary storage, giving examples
of each.
4. Benefits of using a touch screen to capture data in public areas.
5. Explain the functions of a register in the CPU during data processing.
6. Advantages and disadvantages of using open source software.
7. Limitations of using the Command line Interface.
8. Outline common software problems.
9. Explain uses of the following input devices: (a) Barcode reader, (b) Digital camera.
10. Types of Operating systems
11. Advantages and disadvantages of hard disk.
12. Identify storage media suitable for backup purposes in a bank. Explain why they are
appropriate.
13. Define data logging.
14. Advantages and disadvantages of using data logging.
15. Describe how temperature is monitored and controlled in a greenhouse.
16. Explain ways in which computers can be applied in agriculture besides greenhouse.
17. Identify and explain network devices required for connecting LAN to WAN.
18. Outline and explain the OSI model and state the network devices that operate at each
layer or level
19. Define these terms: (a) Bandwidth (b) Throughput (d) Propagation (e) Broadband (f)
Latency (g) Bit rate (h) Multiplexer
20. Identify and explain transmission impairment or problem
21. Outline and describe cloud service models.
22. Explain the differences between copy right and plagiarism.
23. Define these terms: (a) Cyber culture (b) cybercrime (c) cyber wellness
24. Outline possible criminals for cyber crimes
25. Outline possible advices that can be given to social media users to promote cyber
wellness.
26. Outline features of data recovery software
27. Outline the units of storage in ascending order
28. Define a byte
29. Outline uses of hexadecimal numbers in computing.
30. Define the terms: (a) User documentation (b) technical documentation
31. Outline contents of User documentation and technical documentation
32. Outline methods of implementing a new system and describe how these methods are
implemented
33. Using Vb.net design an algorithm which accepts 50 numbers and determine how many
of the numbers entered are greater than 100.
34. Define top down program design.
35. Define modular programming
36. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of modular programming
37. What is the symbol used to represent a process when drawing a program flow chart.
38. Identify and explain the symbols used when drawing program flow chart
39. Define a (a) variable (b) constant (c) identifier
40. Outline rules of naming variables
41. Describe the following: (a) Debugging (b) Function (c) Reserved word

1. Elements of Marketing Strategies

Marketing strategies consist of several key components that help businesses
effectively reach their target audience and achieve their objectives. These
elements include:
o Target Market Selection: Identifying and selecting specific groups of
consumers to focus marketing efforts on.
o Differentiation: Establishing what makes a product or service unique
compared to competitors.
 o Positioning: Creating a distinct image of the product or service in the
minds of the target market.
o Marketing Mix: Developing a combination of product, price, place,
and promotion strategies to effectively reach the target market.
2. Ideal Conditions for a Business Location
Ideal conditions for a business location typically include:
o Accessibility: Proximity to customers, suppliers, and transportation
networks.
o Visibility: High foot traffic and visibility to attract potential
customers.
o Cost: Affordable rent or purchase prices for the location.
o Demographics: A customer base that matches the target market
profile.
o Regulatory Environment: Favorable local regulations and business
incentives.
3. Difference Between Secondary Storage and Primary Storage
o Primary Storage: This refers to the main memory (RAM) of a
computer where data is temporarily stored for quick access during
processing. For example, RAM is used for running applications and
the operating system.
o Secondary Storage: This is used for long-term data storage and is not
directly accessible by the CPU. Examples include hard drives, SSDs,
and USB flash drives. Secondary storage retains data even when the
computer is turned off.
4. Benefits of Using a Touch Screen to Capture Data in Public Areas
o User-Friendly Interface: Touch screens are intuitive and easy to use,
making them accessible for a wide range of users.
o Efficiency: They allow for quick data entry and retrieval, reducing
wait times.
 o Engagement: Touch screens can enhance user engagement through
interactive features.
o Space-Saving: They often require less physical space compared to
traditional input devices like keyboards and mice.
5. Functions of a Register in the CPU During Data Processing
Registers in the CPU serve several critical functions during data
processing:
o Temporary Storage: They hold data and instructions that are currently
being processed.
o Fast Access: Registers provide the fastest access to data compared to
other types of memory.
o Instruction Execution: They are used to store operands and results of
arithmetic and logical operations.
6. Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Open-Source Software
o Advantages:
 Cost-Effective: Typically free to use and distribute.
 Flexibility: Users can modify the software to meet their needs.
 Community Support: Often backed by a community of
developers who contribute to improvements and
troubleshooting.
o Disadvantages:
 Support Limitations: May lack formal support compared to
proprietary software.
 Compatibility Issues: Can sometimes face compatibility
problems with other software or systems.
7. Limitations of Using the Command Line Interface
o Steep Learning Curve: Requires users to learn specific commands,
which can be daunting for beginners.
o Less Intuitive: Not as user-friendly as graphical user interfaces
(GUIs), making it harder for non-technical users.
 o Error-Prone: Typographical errors can lead to command failures or
unintended actions.
8. Common Software Problems
o Crashes and Freezes: Software may stop responding or crash
unexpectedly.
o Compatibility Issues: Problems arising from software not working
well with other applications or operating systems.
o Performance Slowdowns: Software may become sluggish due to
resource hogging or bugs.
o Installation Errors: Difficulties encountered during the installation
process.
9. Uses of Input Devices
o Barcode Reader: Used for scanning barcodes to quickly input product
information into a system, commonly used in retail and inventory
management.
o Digital Camera: Captures images and videos for various applications,
including documentation, surveillance, and content creation.
10.Types of Operating Systems
o Batch Operating Systems: Execute jobs in batches without user
interaction.
o Time-Sharing Operating Systems: Allow multiple users to access the
system simultaneously.
o Distributed Operating Systems: Manage a group of independent
computers and make them appear as a single coherent system.
o Real-Time Operating Systems: Provide immediate processing and
response to inputs, often used in embedded systems.

11.Advantages and Disadvantages of Hard Disk

Advantages:
 o High Storage Capacity: Hard disks can store large amounts of data,
making them suitable for extensive data storage needs.
o Cost-Effective: They offer a lower cost per gigabyte compared to
other storage options like SSDs.
o Durability: Hard disks are generally durable and can last for several
years with proper care.
Disadvantages:
o Slower Speed: Hard disks are slower than solid-state drives (SSDs) in
terms of data access and transfer speeds.
o Mechanical Parts: They contain moving parts, which makes them
more susceptible to physical damage and wear over time.
o Power Consumption: Hard disks typically consume more power than
SSDs, which can be a consideration for portable devices.
12.Storage Media Suitable for Backup Purposes in a Bank
External Hard Drives: These are portable and can store large amounts of
data, making them suitable for backups.
Cloud Storage: Provides off-site backup solutions that are scalable and
accessible from anywhere, ensuring data safety in case of physical damage
to local storage.
Magnetic Tapes: Often used for archival storage due to their longevity and
cost-effectiveness for large data volumes.
These media are appropriate because they offer reliability, security, and
sufficient capacity to handle sensitive financial data.
13.Define Data Logging
Data logging is the process of collecting and storing data over time using a
device that records measurements from sensors or instruments. This data can
include various parameters such as temperature, humidity, and pressure, and
is often used for monitoring and analysis purposes.
14.Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Data Logging
Advantages:
 o Continuous Monitoring: Allows for real-time data collection and
monitoring over extended periods.
o Accuracy: Provides precise and consistent data that can be used for
analysis and decision-making.
o Automation: Reduces the need for manual data collection, saving
time and labor.
Disadvantages:
o Initial Setup Cost: Setting up data logging systems can be expensive.
o Data Overload: Large volumes of data can be generated, which may
require significant storage and analysis resources.
o Technical Issues: Potential for equipment failure or data corruption.
15.Describe How Temperature is Monitored and Controlled in a
Greenhouse
Temperature in a greenhouse is monitored using sensors that detect the
ambient temperature. These sensors are connected to a control system that
can adjust heating, cooling, and ventilation systems to maintain optimal
growing conditions. Automated systems can open vents, activate fans, or
turn on heating elements based on the temperature readings.
16.Explain Ways in Which Computers Can Be Applied in Agriculture
Besides Greenhouse
Precision Farming: Utilizing GPS and data analytics to optimize field-level
management regarding crop farming.
Soil Monitoring: Using sensors to analyze soil conditions and nutrient
levels to improve crop yield.
Livestock Management: Implementing tracking systems for monitoring
animal health and productivity.
Irrigation Control: Automating irrigation systems based on weather data
and soil moisture levels to conserve water and enhance crop growth.
17.Identify and Explain Network Devices Required for Connecting LAN to
WAN
 Router: Connects multiple networks and routes data between them,
allowing LANs to communicate with WANs.
Modem: Modulates and demodulates signals for data transmission over
telephone lines or cable systems, enabling internet access.
Switch: Connects devices within a LAN and can also connect to a router for
WAN access, facilitating data transfer within the network.
18.Outline and Explain the OSI Model
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model consists of seven layers:
Layer 1: Physical - Deals with the physical connection between devices
(e.g., cables, switches).
Layer 2: Data Link - Provides node-to-node data transfer and error
detection (e.g., switches, bridges).
Layer 3: Network - Manages data routing and forwarding (e.g., routers).
Layer 4: Transport - Ensures complete data transfer (e.g., TCP, UDP).
Layer 5: Session - Manages sessions between applications.
Layer 6: Presentation - Translates data formats and encryption.
Layer 7: Application - Interfaces with end-user applications (e.g., web
browsers, email clients).
19.Define These Terms
(a) Bandwidth: The maximum rate of data transfer across a network.
(b) Throughput: The actual rate of successful data transfer achieved over a
network.
(d) Propagation: The time it takes for a signal to travel from the sender to
the receiver.
(e) Broadband: High-capacity transmission technique that can carry
multiple signals simultaneously.
(f) Latency: The delay before a transfer of data begins following an
instruction.
 (g) Bit Rate: The number of bits transmitted per unit of time, typically
measured in bits per second (bps).
(h) Multiplexer: A device that combines multiple input signals into a single
output signal.
20.Identify and Explain Transmission Impairment or Problem
Transmission impairment refers to any degradation of the signal as it travels
through a medium. Common causes include attenuation (loss of signal
strength), noise (unwanted signals), and distortion (alteration of the signal
shape). These impairments can lead to data loss or errors in communication.
21.Outline and Describe Cloud Service Models
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Provides virtualized computing
resources over the internet, allowing users to rent servers and storage.
Platform as a Service (PaaS): Offers a platform allowing customers to
develop, run, and manage applications without dealing with the
infrastructure.
Software as a Service (SaaS): Delivers software applications over the
internet on a subscription basis, eliminating the need for installation and
maintenance.
22.Explain the Differences Between Copyright and Plagiarism
Copyright: A legal right that grants the creator of original work exclusive
rights to its use and distribution.
Plagiarism: The act of using someone else's work or ideas without proper
attribution, presenting them as one's own. While copyright infringement is a
legal issue, plagiarism is an ethical concern.
23.Define These Terms
(a) Cyber Culture: The social and cultural practices that emerge from the
use of digital technologies and the internet.
(b) Cybercrime: Criminal activities carried out using computers or the
internet, including hacking, identity theft, and online fraud.
 (c) Cyber Wellness: The concept of maintaining a healthy and safe online
presence, promoting responsible use of technology.
24.Outline Possible Criminals for Cyber Crimes
Hackers: Individuals who exploit vulnerabilities in systems for malicious
purposes.
Phishers: Criminals who use deceptive emails or websites to steal personal
information.
Malware Developers: Those who create malicious software to disrupt,
damage, or gain unauthorized access to systems.
Cyberstalkers: Individuals who use the internet to harass or intimidate
others.
25.Outline Possible Advice for Social Media Users to Promote Cyber
Wellness
Use Strong Passwords: Encourage the use of complex passwords and two-
factor authentication.
Be Cautious with Personal Information: Advise users to limit the sharing
of personal details online.
Report Suspicious Activity: Encourage users to report any suspicious
behavior or content.
Educate on Privacy Settings: Inform users about adjusting privacy settings
to control who can see their information.
26.Outline Features of Data Recovery Software
File Recovery: Ability to recover deleted or lost files from various storage
devices.
Partition Recovery: Can restore lost or damaged partitions on hard drives.
Preview Functionality: Allows users to preview recoverable files before
restoring them.
User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use, often with guided
recovery processes.
27.Outline the Units of Storage in Ascending Order
Bit
 Byte
Kilobyte (KB)
Megabyte (MB)
Gigabyte (GB)
Terabyte (TB)
Petabyte (PB).

28.Define a Byte
A byte is a unit of digital information that consists of 8 bits. It is commonly
used to represent a single character of data, such as a letter or number.
29.Outline Uses of Hexadecimal Numbers in Computing
Memory Addressing: Hexadecimal is often used to represent memory
addresses in programming and computer architecture.
Color Codes: In web design, colors are frequently represented in
hexadecimal format (e.g., #FFFFFF for white).
Data Representation: Hexadecimal simplifies the representation of binary
data, making it easier to read and write.
30.Define the Terms
(a) User Documentation: Instructions and information provided to end-
users to help them understand and use a product effectively.
(b) Technical Documentation: Detailed information intended for
developers and engineers, covering the technical aspects of a product or
system.
31.Outline Contents of User Documentation and Technical Documentation
User Documentation:
o Installation instructions
o User guides and manuals
o Troubleshooting tips
 o FAQs
Technical Documentation:
o System architecture
o API documentation
o Code comments and annotations
o Design specifications.
32.Outline Methods of Implementing a New System and Describe How
These Methods Are Implemented
Direct Cutover: The old system is completely replaced by the new system
at a specific point in time. This method requires careful planning to
minimize downtime.
Phased Implementation: The new system is implemented in stages,
allowing for gradual transition and testing of each component.
Pilot Implementation: The new system is tested in a controlled
environment before full deployment, allowing for adjustments based on
feedback.
Parallel Running: Both the old and new systems operate simultaneously for
a period, allowing users to transition gradually while ensuring data integrity.
33.Using Vb.net Design an Algorithm Which Accepts 50 Numbers and
Determine How Many of the Numbers Entered Are Greater Than 100
Dim count As Integer = 0
For i As Integer = 1 To 50
Dim number As Integer
Console.Write("Enter number " & i & ": ")
number = Convert.ToInt32(Console.ReadLine())
If number > 100 Then
count += 1
End If
 Next
Console.WriteLine("Total numbers greater than 100: " & count)
34.Define Top Down Program Design
Top-down program design is a methodology where a system is broken down
into smaller, more manageable components or modules. The process starts
with the highest-level overview of the system and progressively details each
component.
35.Define Modular Programming
Modular programming is a software design technique that emphasizes
dividing a program into separate modules, each of which handles a specific
aspect of the program's functionality. This approach promotes code
reusability and easier maintenance.
36.Explain the Advantages and Disadvantages of Modular Programming
Advantages:
o Reusability: Modules can be reused across different programs.
o Maintainability: Easier to update and debug individual modules
without affecting the entire system.
o Collaboration: Multiple developers can work on different modules
simultaneously.
Disadvantages:
o Complexity: Managing multiple modules can introduce complexity in
communication and data sharing.
o Overhead: May require additional overhead for module interaction
and integration.
37.What is the Symbol Used to Represent a Process When Drawing a
Program Flow Chart
The symbol used to represent a process in a flowchart is a rectangle.
38.Identify and Explain the Symbols Used When Drawing Program Flow
Chart
Oval: Represents the start and end points of the flowchart.
 Rectangle: Indicates a process or operation.
Diamond: Represents a decision point that requires a yes/no answer.
Arrow: Shows the flow of control from one step to another.
39.Define a (a) Variable (b) Constant (c) Identifier
(a) Variable: A storage location identified by a name that can hold different
values during program execution.
(b) Constant: A fixed value that does not change during the execution of a
program.
(c) Identifier: A name used to identify a variable, constant, function, or any
other user-defined item in a program.
40.Outline Rules of Naming Variables
Must begin with a letter or underscore.
Can contain letters, numbers, and underscores.
Cannot contain spaces or special characters (except underscore).
Should not be a reserved word in the programming language.
Should be descriptive to indicate the purpose of the variable.
41.Describe the Following
(a) Debugging: The process of identifying and removing errors or bugs from
a program to ensure it runs correctly.
(b) Function: A block of code designed to perform a specific task, which
can be called upon when needed within a program.
(c) Reserved Word: A word that is part of the programming language
syntax and cannot be used as an identifier for variables or functions.
Other Answers
1. Elements of Marketing Strategies
 Market Research: Understanding the target audience, market trends, and
competition.
 Target Audience: Identifying and segmenting potential customers.
 Positioning: Crafting a unique value proposition and brand image.
 4 Ps: Product, Price, Place, Promotion strategies.
 Budgeting: Allocating resources effectively for marketing activities.
 Monitoring & Evaluation: Assessing the effectiveness of marketing
strategies.
2. Ideal Conditions for a Business Location
 Accessibility: Proximity to transport links and customers.
 Visibility: High foot traffic or online presence.
 Cost: Affordable rents and operational costs.
 Market Demographics: Target customer base in the area.
 Local Regulations: Favorable business regulations and support.
3. Primary vs. Secondary Storage
 Primary Storage: Fast, volatile memory like RAM; used for active
processes.
 Secondary Storage: Non-volatile memory like hard drives or SSDs; used
for data retention.
4. Benefits of Touch Screens in Public Areas
 User-Friendly: Intuitive interface for diverse users.
 Attraction: Engaging experience for customers.
 Data Capture: Efficient collection of information and feedback.
 Accessibility: Easier for people with disabilities.
5. Functions of a Register in the CPU
  Storage: Temporarily holds data and instructions.
 Execution: Facilitates quick access for arithmetic/logic operations.
 Control: Manages instruction sequencing during processing.
6. Advantages and Disadvantages of Open Source Software
 Advantages: Cost-effective, customizable, community support.
 Disadvantages: Potential security risks, lack of official support.
7. Limitations of Using the Command Line Interface
 Steep Learning Curve: Requires knowledge of commands.
 User-Friendliness: Less intuitive compared to GUIs.
 Error-Prone: Small mistakes can lead to significant issues.
8. Common Software Problems
 Compatibility Issues: Software not working with certain hardware.
 Bugs and Glitches: Unexpected behavior in applications.
 Performance Issues: Slow response times or crashes.
9. Uses of Input Devices
 (a) Barcode Reader: Scans barcodes for inventory management and sales.
 (b) Digital Camera: Captures images for storage, editing, and sharing.
10. Types of Operating Systems
 Batch OS: Processes jobs in batches without user interaction.
 Time-Sharing OS: Allows multiple users to interact with the system
simultaneously.
 Real-Time OS: Processes data in real-time for critical applications.
 Network OS: Manages network resources and communications.
11. Advantages and Disadvantages of Hard Disk
 Advantages: Large storage capacity, cost-effective.
 Disadvantages: Mechanical parts can fail, slower than SSDs.
12. Suitable Storage Media for Bank Backup
 Magnetic Tapes: Cost-effective for large data storage.
 External Hard Drives: Portable and easy to manage.
 Cloud Storage: Provides redundancy and off-site backup.
13. Data Logging
 The process of collecting and storing data over time for analysis.
14. Advantages and Disadvantages of Data Logging
 Advantages: Continuous data collection, accurate records.
 Disadvantages: Requires maintenance and can be costly.
15. Temperature Monitoring in a Greenhouse
 Sensors: Use of thermometers and environmental sensors.
 Control Systems: Automated systems adjust heating/cooling as needed.
16. Computer Applications in Agriculture
 Precision Farming: Data analysis for crop yield improvement.
 Irrigation Management: Automated watering systems based on soil
moisture.
17. Network Devices for Connecting LAN to WAN
 Router: Directs data packets between networks.
 Modem: Connects to the Internet service provider.
18. OSI Model Overview
 Layer 1: Physical (e.g., cables, switches)
 Layer 2: Data Link (e.g., switches)
 Layer 3: Network (e.g., routers)
 Layer 4: Transport (e.g., firewalls)
 Layer 5: Session
 Layer 6: Presentation
  Layer 7: Application
19. Definitions
 (a) Bandwidth: Maximum data transfer rate.
 (b) Throughput: Actual data transfer rate.
 (c) Propagation: Time taken for data to travel.
 (d) Broadband: High-speed Internet connection.
 (e) Latency: Delay before data transfer begins.
 (f) Bit Rate: Number of bits transferred per second.
 (g) Multiplexer: Device that combines multiple signals.
20. Transmission Impairments
 Attenuation: Signal loss over distance.
 Noise: Unwanted interference that distorts signals.
21. Cloud Service Models
 IaaS: Infrastructure as a Service (e.g., virtual machines).
 PaaS: Platform as a Service (e.g., app development platforms).
 SaaS: Software as a Service (e.g., software accessed via the cloud).
22. Copyright vs. Plagiarism
 Copyright: Legal protection for original works.
 Plagiarism: Ethical issue of using someone else's work without
acknowledgment.
23. Definitions
 (a) Cyber Culture: The culture emerging from the Internet.
 (b) Cybercrime: Criminal activities conducted online.
 (c) Cyber Wellness: Promoting safe and healthy online behavior.
24. Possible Criminals for Cyber Crimes
 Hackers: Individuals breaking into systems.
  Phishers: Scammers seeking personal information.
 Cyber Terrorists: Groups targeting infrastructures.
25. Advice for Promoting Cyber Wellness
 Educate on Privacy Settings: Use strong passwords and privacy controls.
 Think Before You Share: Be cautious with personal information.
 Report Suspicious Activity: Encourage reporting scams.
26. Features of Data Recovery Software
 File Recovery: Restores lost or deleted files.
 Disk Imaging: Creates a complete copy of a drive.
 User-Friendly Interface: Simplifies the recovery process.
27. Units of Storage in Ascending Order
 Bit, Byte, Kilobyte, Megabyte, Gigabyte, Terabyte, Petabyte.
28. Define a Byte
 A unit of digital information consisting of 8 bits.
29. Uses of Hexadecimal Numbers in Computing
 Memory Addressing: Simplifies representation of binary data.
 Color Representation: Used in web design for colors.
30. Definitions
 (a) User Documentation: Guides for end-users on using software.
 (b) Technical Documentation: Detailed information for developers.
31. Contents of Documentation
 User Documentation: Installation guides, troubleshooting, FAQs.
 Technical Documentation: API references, system requirements, design
specifications.
32. Methods of Implementing a New System
 Direct Changeover: Immediate switch to new system.
  Parallel Running: Running both old and new systems simultaneously.
 Phased Implementation: Gradual introduction of the new system.
33. VB.NET Algorithm Example
Dim count As Integer = 0
For i As Integer = 1 To 50
Dim num As Integer = CInt(InputBox("Enter number " & i))
If num > 100 Then
count += 1
End If
Next
MsgBox("Count of numbers greater than 100: " & count)
34. Top-Down Program Design
 A method of designing software where the main function is defined first,
followed by sub-functions.
35. Modular Programming
 A programming paradigm that divides a program into separate sub-programs
or modules.
36. Advantages and Disadvantages of Modular Programming
 Advantages: Easier maintenance, reusability, and parallel development.
 Disadvantages: Potential for increased complexity in module interaction.
37. Flow Chart Symbol for Process
 The rectangle symbol represents a process.
38. Flow Chart Symbols
 Oval: Start/End.
 Rectangle: Process.
 Diamond: Decision.
  Arrow: Flow direction.
39. Definitions
 (a) Variable: A storage location with a name and value.
 (b) Constant: A fixed value that does not change.
 (c) Identifier: A name used to identify a variable or function.
40. Rules for Naming Variables
 Must start with a letter or underscore, no spaces, cannot use reserved words,
case-sensitive.
41. Definitions
 (a) Debugging: The process of identifying and fixing bugs in software.
 (b) Function: A reusable block of code that performs a specific task.
 (c) Reserved Word: A word that has special meaning in programming
languages and cannot be used as an identifier.