1.

INTRODUCTION TO
COMPUTERS .....................................................................- 2 -

2. COMPUTER
SYSTEMS ..........................................................................................- 6
-

3. OPERATING
SYSTEMS ....................................................................................... - 13
-

4. WORD
PROCESSING .........................................................................................
.. - 16 -

5. SPREADSHEETS ....................................................................................
............... - 18 -

6. DATABASES ...........................................................................................
................ - 23 -

7. DESKTOP PUBLISHING
(DTP) ........................................................................... - 25 -

8. INTERNET AND E-MAIL……………………………………………………….……-

26-

9. DATA SECURITY &

CONTROL ......................................................................... - 28 -

10. DATA REPRESENTATION IN

COMPUTERS ................................................... - 30 -

11. DATA
PROCESSING .........................................................................................
.... - 32 -

12. PROGRAMMING......................................................................................
............. - 34 -

13. SYSTEMS
DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................. -
42 -

14. NETWORKING & DATA

COMMUNICATION ................................................. - 44 -

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 15. APPLICATION AREAS OF
ICT ........................................................................... - 48 -

16. IMPACT OF ICT ON

SOCIETY ........................................................................... - 50 -

17. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN

ICT .................................................................... - 51 -

18. ROADMAP TO KCSE …………………………………………..…………………….-

52-

KENYA CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION

451/1 COMPUTER STUDIES
PAPER 1 (THEORY QUESTIONS)

FORM ONE - INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

1. Explain the following terms as used in computer science:
(a) Data. (1
mark)
(b) Program. (2
marks)
(c) Data processing. (2
marks)
(d) Information. (2
marks)
2. What role(s) does each of the following units of a computer play during
data processing?

i). Input unit. (1 mark) ii). Output unit. (1 mark)

iii). Central processing unit. (2 marks)
3. List down four characteristics of a computer.
(4 marks)
4. State four different parts that make up a computer.
(2 marks)
5. (a) Explain the term System Unit. (1
mark)
(b) Name four components found in the System unit.
(4 marks)
(c) Outline three features of a computer’s System Unit. (3
marks)
6. (a) What are peripheral devices? (1
mark)
(b) Give two examples of peripheral devices.
(1 mark)

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7. (a) Match the following generations of computers with the technology
used to develop them.
(2 marks)

Generation Technology
First generation Very Large Integrated Circuit
Second generation Integrated Circuits
Third generation Transistors
Fourth generation Thermionic valves (Vacuum tubes)

(b) Computers have evolved through a number of generations. List any 4

characteristics of the First generation of computers. (4 marks)
(c) Give four differences between today’s computers and the first
generation computers.
(4 marks)
8. (a) State and explain five factors considered when classifying computers
according to
generations. (5 marks)
(b) Briefly discuss the classification of computer according to historical
development
(generations) (10 marks)

9. Explain four methods of classifying computers. (4

marks)
10. Giving two points in each case, state the difference between the following
types of computers.

(a) Supercomputer and Mainframe computer. (2

marks)
(b) Digital computer and Analogue computer. (2
marks) (c) Special-purpose (dedicated) computer and a General-
purpose computer. (2 marks) (d) Desktop computers and Laptop
computers.
11. (a) Explain the emerging trends in Microcomputer technology in relation to
size. (1 mark)
(b) Give two reasons why smaller computers like Laptops tend to be more
expensive than
Desktop computers. (2
marks)
12. (i) Explain four reasons which make laptop computers suitable for
personal computing work.
(4 marks)
(ii) Recommend any two application areas that would require the use of
laptop computers.
(2 marks)

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13. Give three reasons why a Mobile phone is regarded to be a computer.
(3 marks)
14. State a specific example where each of the following types of computers
can be used.
(a) Supercomputer. (1
mark)
(b) Mainframe computer. (1
mark)
(c) Minicomputer. (1
mark)
(d) Microcomputer / Personal computer. (1
mark)
15. (a) Differentiate between a Minicomputer and a Personal (2
Computer. marks)
(b) List three factors to be considered when purchasing a (3
microcomputer. marks)
(c) Explain four reasons which make microcomputers suitable for personal
computing work.
(8 marks)
16. (a). Explain how computers are used in the following areas to process
data. (10 marks)
i). Supermarket.
ii). Hospitals.
iii). Banks.
iv). Hotels.
v). Homes.
vi). Schools/education
centres.
vii). Industries. viii).
Police station. ix).
Transport industry.
x). Offices.
(b) Give three advantages of using computers for data processing over
other types of office
and business equipment. (3
marks)

17. (a) Define the term ‘Computer laboratory’ and give three factors to be
considered when
preparing a computer laboratory. (4 marks)

(b) Mention any FOUR features which a standard computer laboratory

should have.
bc (4 marks)
18. (a) State and explain three safety precautions and practices in a computer
laboratory.
(3 marks)

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 (b) State four precautions that should be taken when handling diskettes.
(4 marks)
19. Njeru the lab technician wants to buy a fire extinguisher for the computer
lab. Which type of extinguisher is the most suitable for the computer
laboratory? (1 mark)

20. (a) Give one major environmental and one energy problem Kenya faces as
far as computer installations are concerned.
(1 mark)

(b) How could these problems be avoided? (2

marks)

21. What actions should be taken in case of a fire outbreak in the computer
laboratory?
(4
marks)
22. Describe the ideal environment for a computer to work (3
properly. marks)
23. Identify three facilities that will ensure proper (3
ventilation in a room. marks)
24. For each of the following, give one reason why they are not allowed in a
computer
laboratory. (2 marks)

(i) Smoking.
(ii) Eating foods.
(iii) Beverages/liquids.
25. Why would it not be good to install Powder or Water-based fire
extinguishers in the
computer room? (2 marks)

26. (a) State one reason why a computer needs to be connected to a stable
power supply.
(1 mark)
(b) Give two reasons why it would be necessary to have a UPS
(Uninterruptible power
supply) in a computer laboratory. (2
marks)

27. Mention two things that are likely to cause eye-strain in the computer
room. (2 marks)
28. Identify three proper sitting postures while using the computer.
(3 marks)

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29. Computers are usually susceptible to dust, humidity, and heat. State two
ways of how you would control each of the three hazards in a typical
computer laboratory? (3 marks)

30. What do you understand by the term ‘Write-protected’ with reference to a

diskette?
31. List three things that can spoil a Printer if they are not of the correct
specification, and
explain what damage may be caused. (3
marks)

32. A computer teacher has put a rule that diskettes should not be used in the
Computer Laboratory.

(a). Give a reason for the rule. (1

mark)
(b). State two alternatives that can be used to achieve the same objective.
(2 marks)

33. State and explain three ways that computer technology could make office
work more
efficient. (6 marks)
34. (a) Explain the steps you would follow to set up a new computer.
(3 marks)
(b) Explain the correct procedure for shutting down the computers in the
computer
laboratory. (4 marks)

35. A computer must go through the process of booting/initialization before

use.
(a) Briefly explain the term “computer booting”. (1
mark)
(b) Explain what happens in the computer during the booting process.
(2 marks)
(c) Give and explain two types of booting. (2
marks)
(d) What type of memory is used to store the boot up program (the first
program to be
executed on switching on a computer. (1 mark)

(e) State two ways of warm booting a computer. (2

marks)

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36. Classify the following keyboard characters. (6
marks) a) A, B, C ……..Z
(b) 0, 1, 2 ………9
(c) F1, F2 ……..F9
(d) Del, Insert, Backspace
(e) Home, End, Page Up, Arrow keys
(f) CTRL, SHIFT, ALT

37. State five different types of keys found on a standard keyboard.

(5 marks)

38. Name and explain the function of the keyboard keys represented by the
following symbols.

(i) (2 marks)

(ii) (2 marks)

(iii) (2 marks)
39. (a) Explain the following terms associated with the use of a Mouse:
i) Left-clicking. ii)
Double-clicking.
iii) Right-clicking.
iv) Drag and
drop.

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COMPUTER SYSTEMS

1. (a) Define the following terms as used in computing: (2 marks) i).

System. ii). Computer system.
(b) Differentiate between a Computer and a Computer system.
(2 marks)
2. (a) List and explain three functional elements of a computer system
(3 marks) (b) Using a well-labelled diagram, give a descriptive
illustration of a computer system.
(7 marks)
3. (a). The diagram below represents the essential features of a computer
system. Study the diagram and answer the questions that follow:

A Output
devices
B

Secondary
storage

(i). Name the components A, B, C, and D (4 marks)

(ii). On the diagram above, indicate the direction of the data flow using
arrows.
(3 marks)
4. Give an example of a: (3
marks)
i) Device that reads data.
ii) Pointing device.
iii) Voice input device.

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5. (a) What are computer scanning devices? (1
mark)
(b) Name the type of scanner used: (2
marks)
i) To capture prices of goods at points of sale terminals in
supermarkets and superstores.

ii) To grade multiple choice examination

6. Briefly describe how each of the following I/O devices work.
i) Tracker ball. (3 marks) ii) Touch screen. (3 marks) iii) Light
pen. (3 marks) iv) Graphic (Digitizing) Tablet. (3 marks) v)
MICR. (3 marks) vi) OCR. (3 marks) vii) Speech (voice)
recognition device. (3 marks) viii) Speech (voice) Synthesizer.
(3 marks)

7. (a) Explain the principle of a Kimball tag as a data input device.

(3 marks)
(b) Outline any two advantages of a Light pen as an input device.
(2 marks)
8. (a) Identify two advantages and four limitations of the Speech recognition
devices.
(6 marks)
(b) State two situations in which speech recognition devices may be useful
as a method of data entry.
(2 marks)

9. (a) What are turnaround documents? (1

mark)
(b) Name any two data capture techniques that make use of turnaround
documents.
(2 marks)
10. Magnetic Ink Character Reader (MICR) technology uses the principle of
magnetism to encode certain characters/data.

i) Recommend one application areas where this technology is (1

used. mark)
ii) Name any three data items that can be encoded using (3
magnetized ink. marks)
11. Name four factors one would consider when selecting a data (4
input device. marks)
12. (a) Describe three functions performed by the CPU. (3
marks)
(b) Explain the functions performed by each of the following central
processing unit elements.

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 i) Control Unit. (2 marks) ii) Arithmetic and Logic Unit. (2
marks)
iii) Registers. (1 mark) iv) The Main memory. (2 marks) v)
The System clock. (1 mark)
13. In reference to ALU, explain the meaning of logic operations, and give an
example of this processing operation.
(2 marks)

14. (a) Give four types of registers found in the CPU. (4

marks)
(b) Explain how the CPU registers may be used to carry out a basic
calculation such as:
2+3=5 (4 marks)
15. State the function of each of the following computer bus.
(3 marks)
(a) Data bus.
(b) Address bus. (c) Control bus.
16. Computer systems are built from three types of physical components:
Processor, memories and Input/Output devices.

i) State two tasks of a processor. (2

marks) ii) State the functions of I/O devices.
(2 marks)
17. (a) What is the computer Motherboard? (1
mark)
(b) State any four components found on the computer motherboard.
(2 marks)
18. (a) What is a read/write drive? (2
marks)
(b) State any two types of computer drives, giving an example of a storage
device used by each. (3 marks)

19. (a) Give two reasons why it is necessary for a computer to have
secondary/backing storage facilities (2 marks)
(b) List three different examples of auxiliary storage devices. (3 marks)

20. (a) The hard disk is composed of Platters, Hard disk Drive, Access arm,
Motor device,
Read/Write heads, and Spindle. State the function of each of these
parts. (6 marks)

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 (b) State three advantages of using hard disks as medium of storage.
(3 marks)
(c) Describe three precautions you would take to avoid damaging the hard
disk. (3 marks)
(d) Explain the internal mechanism of the hard disk in reference to disk
platters and
read/write head. (3 marks)

(e) Describe the structure of a hard disk in reference to cylinders, tracks

and sectors.
(3 marks)
21. (a) Write down two advantages of storing data in a magnetic disk over a
magnetic tape.
(1 mark)
(b) State two reasons why Magnetic tapes are not commonly used as
computer data storage medium today.
(2 marks)

22. Differentiate between:

i) Fixed and removable disks. (2 marks)
ii) Volatile memory and Non-volatile memory. (2
marks) iii) Magnetic and Optical storage media.
(2 marks) iv) CD-ROM and Floppy disk.
(2 marks) v) Hardcopy and Softcopy.
(2 marks)
23. Give three advantages of using a Scanner over the keyboard as an input
device.(3 marks)
24. (a) Using a well-labelled diagram, differentiate between Sectors and
Tracks as used in
Magnetic disks. (4 marks)
(b) Draw a well-labelled diagram of a 3.5-inch floppy disk showing its
parts. (7 marks)
(c) Explain four rules for handling magnetic disks. (4
marks)
25. (a) Give two uses of floppy disks in a computer system. (2
marks)
(b) Draw a labelled diagram to illustrate the internal (7
structure of a diskette. marks)
26. The diagram below shows a formatted plate surface of a
storage disk.
27. RAM and Magnetic disks are both Random
access devices. List four differences
between the two devices.
(4 marks)
Shade and label:
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(a) one sector (1
mark)
(b) one block (1
mark)
28. State any three main differences between Primary and secondary
computer storage.
(3 marks)
29. Giving an example, explain the term memory Volatability? (2 marks)

30. (a) State four functions of Read-Only memory (ROM) (4

marks)
(b) Give three characteristics of ROM (3
marks)
(c) Name two different types of ROM (2
marks)
31. Mention any four types of programs or facilities that are stored in the
Read Only Memory.
(4
marks)
32. (a) Outline three characteristics of Random Access (3
memory (RAM). marks)
(b) Name the two types of RAM clearly stating their (3
differences. marks)
33. Give two examples of special purpose memories found (2
in the CPU. marks)
34. Give two types of information that are found in the (1 mark)
RAM.
35. What do the following phrases mean in reference to (4
computers: marks)
i) 2 Ghz processor speed.
ii) 128 KB Cache. iii) 256 MB
RAM
iv) 80 GB Hard disk
36. The diagram below shows an example of a secondary
storage.

i) Identify the name of the device. (1

mark)
ii) List down two advantages of this device over a floppy disk in storage.
(2 marks)
37. Calculate the capacity in MB of a two-sided floppy disk with 6 sectors per
surface, and 512 bytes per sector.
(2 marks)

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38. (a) List any four examples of Optical storage devices.
(4 marks) (b) Give two application areas that make extensive use of
Optical disks. (2 marks) (c) Give two advantages of a Digital Versatile
Disk over a normal Compact disk.
(2 marks)
39. (a) Explain two features of a DVD that enables it to store more information
than a CD-R.
(4 marks)
(b) How many Optical disks of 720 MB storage capacity are needed to
store 20 GB storage of hard disk data? (Give your answer to the
nearest whole number). (2 marks)
40. (a) Define the term Multimedia. (2 marks)
(b) List down four components required to make a computer multimedia.
(3 marks)
41. Giving reasons in each case, suggest the most suitable backing store
medium for each of the following:

i) Data for payroll program. (2 marks) ii) Documents for a word

processing program. (2 marks) iii) A company’s financial records for
the last four years. (2 marks)

42. (a) List any four examples of computer output devices. (2 marks)
(b) Identify three functions of computer output devices. (3 marks)
43. Outline two advantages and two disadvantages of using a Monitor for
output. (4 marks)
44. (a) Show two differences between a CRT monitor and a Flat-panel display.
(2 marks) (b) Give three examples of flat-panel monitors available in the
market today. (3 marks)
45. Describe five types of display video cards used in computers. (5
marks)
46. (a) What are pixels? (1 mark)
(b) What role do pixels play in screen display? (1
mark)
47. List three possible factors that you would consider when buying a
computer monitor.
(3 marks)
48. (a) What are Character printers? (1
mark)
(b) Give two examples of character printers. (2
marks)
49. State any four differences between Printer output and Monitor output.
(4 marks)
50. Distinguish between Impact and Non-impact printers, and give two
examples of each.

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 (3
marks)
51. (a) State two advantages and one (6
disadvantage of: i) marks)
Laser printers. ii) Inkjet printers.
(b) Distinguish between a Line printer and a Page printer. (2
marks)
52. List three differences between a laser printer and a dot (3
matrix printer. marks)
53. (a) State two advantages of using a Printer for output. (2
marks)
(b) Highlight four factors one should consider when purchasing (4
a printer. marks)
54. (a) Name two types of Plotters. (1
mark)
(b) State the main difference between the plotters you have named in (a)
above. (2 marks)
(c) List three advantages of a Plotter over normal printer machines.
(3 marks)
55. Give two advantages of using sound output devices.
(2 marks)
56. George connected new multimedia speakers to his computer and tried to
play his favourite music CD, but no sound came out. Suggest two
problems that might have occurred.
(2 marks)
57. Give one device which can perform both input and output functions in a
computer.
(1 mark)
58. (a) Define the following terms: (3 marks) i) Port. ii) Data interface
cable. iii) Power cable.
(b) State the function of the Power supply unit found in the System unit.
(1 mark)
59. (a) Name any two peripheral devices that are connected to the computer
through the PS/2 port. (1 mark)
(b) Give two major advantages of a USB interface cable over other cables
in the computer.
(2 marks)
(c) Explain two differences between Serial (COM) and Parallel (LPT)
communication ports of a computer.
(2 marks)

60. In relation to cabling, give two reasons why a printer may not print work
sent from the
computer as expected? (2
marks)

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61. (a) With reasons, briefly describe the most appropriate type of printer or
output device for the output of:
(6 marks)
i) Customer invoices on multiparty stationery.
ii) Letters to customers. iii) Detailed
engineering designs.
(b) Give three reasons why Optical disks are better storage devices
compared to floppy disks.
(3 marks)
62. Outline three precautions one should take when assembling a computer.
(3 marks)
63. (a) Define computer Software. (2
marks)
(b) Discuss the purpose and use of the following software found in
microcomputers:
i) System software. (8 marks) ii) Application software. (7
marks)
(c) You have been asked by a local secondary school to assist them in
selecting a microcomputer for their use. Discuss five hardware and
five software factors you would consider in order to select the most
suitable computer system. (10 marks)

64. (a). What is a utility software? (1 mark)

(b). Give four examples of utility software. (2
marks)

65. Give two reasons why people prefer in-house developed application
programs to generalpurpose application packages.
(2 marks)

66. (a) Why is it important to carefully study a warranty before committing

yourself by signing it? (1 mark)
(b) Give three reasons why one might purchase a computer with a one
year warranty instead of a three year warranty. (3 marks)

67. (a) What is a Standard software? (1

mark)
(b) Name five advantages and five disadvantages of off-the-shelf
packages. (10 marks) (c) Discuss four factors you would consider
when purchasing an Application package.
(4 marks)
68. Differentiate between single-purpose programs and integrated software.
(2 marks)

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69. (a) A firm intends to purchase new software. List three items that should
accompany the software. (3 marks)
(b) When buying a new software product, usually an installation guide is
needed by the buyer. State one reason for this. (1 mark)

70. State any two sources of an accounting application software for an

organization.
(2 marks) 71. Describe the following categories of software: (2
marks)
(i). Firmware.
(ii). Proprietary software.
72. (a) Explain the following software terms: (3
marks)
(i) Authenticity.
(ii) Portability.
(iii) Modularity.

(b) What is meant by the term User-friendly as used in software

development? (1 mark)
73. Write the following acronyms in full: (3
marks)
(i) BIOS
(ii) EPROM
(iii) WAP
74. Briefly state the need for: (2 marks)
(i). Software maintenance.
(ii). Software updates.
75. A school bought a computer system. The hardware items supplied include:
a 800 MHz processor, 640 MB of RAM, a sound card, speakers, a monitor,
a keyboard, a 120 GB hard disk, a floppy disk drive, a CD -Read/Write
drive, a mouse, a modem, an inkjet printer, and a joystick.
The software supplied include: an operating system, a BASIC interpreter,
and the following packages: spreadsheets, graphics, word processor, art,
database and games.

76. List three input devices from the given specifications. (3 marks)

(a). Explain the meaning of the following:

(i). 800 MHZ (2 marks)

(ii). 640 MB of RAM (2 marks)
(iii). 120 GB hard disk (2 marks)
(c). Some of the students in the school use the computer to
do homework.
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 Name the package used to:
(i) Do calculations and draw graphs. (1 mark)
(ii). Write an essay. (1 mark)
(iii). Make a poster. (1 mark)
(d). Students enjoy playing noisy computer games.
(i). Which two hardware items are needed to produce (2 marks)
sound?

(ii). Which input device is only used for playing games? (1 mark)

OPERATING SYSTEMS

1. The central processor and peripheral devices of a computer system are

coordinated by the operating system.

(a) Define the term ‘Operating system’ (2

marks)
(b) Other than the processor, list two other resources/components that an
operating system manages. (2 marks)
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 (c) There are several types of operating systems in use today. State two
examples of
operating systems with which you are familiar. (2
marks)

2. Explain why Operating systems are so important. (4

marks)
3. Explain any five basic functions of an operating system software.
(5 marks)
4. Show the difference between the Control Unit of a processor and the
Operating system in terms of functionality.
(2 marks)

5. (a) Explain what is meant by system Interrupt? (1

mark)
(b). Name any five examples of system interrupts and their possible causes.
(10 marks)
(c). Mention two advantages of using interrupts for input or output devices.
(2 marks)
6. One of the tasks of an operating system is to allow communication
between the computer and the user. State any four system messages
from the computer to the operator. (4 marks)

7. (a) Why must an operating system be installed in the computer before

installing any other software. (1 mark)

(b) Differentiate between scheduling and sequencing of tasks by the

operating system.
(2 marks) 8. (a) Give three ways in which operating systems
are classified. (3 marks) (b) Giving an example in each case, explain the
following types of operating systems:
i) Single-user / Single-tasking (2
marks) ii) Multi-user / Multi-tasking
(2 marks)
9. (a) Give two examples of single-user operating system. (1
mark)
(b) State any three computer software that can be classified as a Multi-
user operating system.
(3 marks)
10. A computer user may interact with a computer either through Graphical
User Interface (GUI) or through typed commands.

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 (a) State two features of a graphical user interface.
(2 marks)
(b) Give two advantages of using GUI based operating system over a
Command line
interface. (1 mark)
(c) Some computer systems still use Command line interfaces. State two
advantages of
command line interface. (2 marks)

11. State three merits of Menu driven interface over a Command based
interface. (3 marks)
12. What is a Deadlock in reference to operating systems? (2
marks)
13. Explain briefly the following concepts as used in the Windows
environment:
(a) Desktop. (2
marks)
(b) Window. (2
marks)
(c) Icon. (2
marks)
(d) Sidekick menu. (2
marks)
(e) Taskbar. (2
marks)
(f) Task (2
marks)
14. Describe three methods of opening an icon into a window. (3
marks)
15. Distinguish between Operating system software and Utility (2
software. marks)

16. Differentiate between a Toolbar and a Status bar. (2

marks)
17. (a) Identify three functions of each of the following (2
window components: i) Taskbar. ii) Title bar. marks)

(b) List and explain down the three parts of the windows (3
Taskbar. marks)

18. (a) Identify three Application software that are installed in

(3
your computer. marks)
(b) Give three ways you can start an application in Windows. (3
marks)
19. (a) Explain each of the following commands used to manage files and
folders. (5 marks)
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 i) Rename
ii) Copy iii) Sort iv) Properties v) Delete.
(b). Name the command one would use to repair cross-linked files in
Graphical user interface
software. (1
mark)
20. (a) What is disk formatting? (1
mark)
(b) Why should precautions be taken while formatting (1
diskettes? mark)
21. Differentiate between Hard-sectored and soft-sectored (2
disk. marks)
22. Distinguish between disk compression and disk (2
defragmentation. marks)

23. (a). Define ‘Folder/ directory tree’ (1

mark)
(b). Give two examples of root directories you know. (1
mark)
(c) Give three uses of sub-directories or subfolders. (3
marks)
24. Draw a directory tree showing how files and folders are organized by an
operating system.
(5 marks)
25. Identify two factors that you would consider when choosing an operating
system for use in a computer. (2 marks)

26. You are employed in an organization as a computer operator in the

Accounts department.
The following are some of the tasks you are supposed to perform:
• Data entry.
• Ensuring that data entered in the computer is stored in a well-organized
manner.
• Backing up data.
• Monitoring hard disk space of all computers in the department.
(a) What is used in Microsoft Windows to store programs and files in a
well-organized manner? (1 mark)

(b) Explain two methods of backing up data into a storage device in

Windows.
(2 marks)
(c) Identify two reasons why a user needs to know the space available for
data storage in the
hard disk. (2 marks)
27. Explain how Windows organizes information in reference to files and
folders. (1 mark)

[Link]
28. Distinguish between System files and Application files. (2
marks)
29. Outline three reasons why it is important to first shut down the computer
before turning it off.
(3 marks)

30. Outline the procedure of renaming a file or folder using windows operating
system.
(3 marks)
31. Which keys in the keyboard should one press when he/she wants to:
i) Cut
ii) Copy iii) Paste iv) Rename an item
32. (a) What is meant by the term ‘disk Partitioning’? (1
mark)
(b) Give two reasons why the hard disk may be partitioned.
(2 marks)
33. (a) State two purposes of the Recycle Bin. (2
marks)
(b) Give two advantages of using a password in Windows as an operating
system.
(2 marks)
34. A computer specification has the following details:
Pentium III
1.44 MB Floppy disk drive
20 GB Hard disk
Full Multimedia
17” SVGA monitor
Pre-installed Operating system
Pre-installed Office Suite
(a). What is meant by: - (3 marks)
(i). 1.44 MB floppy disk drive.
(ii). 20 GB
(iii). 17” SVGA
(b). Which operating system might be pre-installed in this computer, and
why? (2 marks)

35. A school organizes its work in directories. The directory WP contains the
files CATS, EXAMS and ASSIGNMENTS. The directory SP contains the
spreadsheet files. The directory DB contains the database files. The
directory PROG is contained in the OTHERS directory. The directory WP
also contains the PERSONAL directory. Given that the directory STUDENT
contains directories SP, DB, WP and OTHERS.

(a). Draw the directory tree structure with C as the root. (7

marks)
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 (b). Write the path at which the contents of subdirectory DB can be erased
or displayed.
(2 marks)

(c). Write the path for the directory PROG. (2

marks)
(d). Give two reasons for storing files in directories and subdirectories. (2
marks)

FORM TWO - WORD PROCESSING – MS WORD

1. (a) What is a Word processor? (1

mark)
(b) State 4 purposes of word processing. (2
marks)
(c) Name any three characteristics of a good word processor.
(2 marks)
2. State four editing and six formatting features of any good word processor.
(10 marks)
3. Give four uses of the Horizontal ruler in Microsoft Word. (4
marks)
4. (a) What is a Template? (1 mark)
(b) State two advantages of using a template to create a document.
(2 marks)
(c) List five types of documents where you would use a template.
(5 marks)
5. Explain the difference between Type over and Insert mode in word
processing. (2 marks)
6. Veronica tried to retrieve a document file following all the steps correctly.
The filename did not appear in file list box. State three causes for this.
(3 marks)

7. (a) What is the function of the following combination of keys? (4

marks)
(i) CTRL + A.
(ii) CTRL + Page Up.
(iii) CTRL + Home.
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 (iv) CTRL + B
(v) CTRL + E
(vi) CTRL + Z
(vii) CTRL + F
(viii) CTRL + SHIFT + HOME
8. Explain the role/use of the following features in a word processor:
(4 marks)
(a) Find and Replace.
(b) Undo and Redo.
(c) Thesaurus.
(d) AutoCorrect.
9. Differentiate between bolding and highlighting text.
(2 marks)
10. (a) Name and explain the use of any three buttons found in a Spell-check
dialog box.
(6 marks)
(b) List the steps that you would use to correct wrongly-spelled words in a
document using the spell-checking feature.
(3 marks)

11. Clearly explain the meaning of the following terms as used in word
processing:
(a) Blocking text. (1 mark)
(b) Word wrap. (1 mark)
(c) Italicizing text. (1 mark)
(d) Page Break. (2
marks)
(e) Header. (2
marks)
(f) Footer. (1
mark)
(g) Footnote. (1
mark)
(h) Indenting. (2
marks)
(i) Alignment. (2
marks)
(j) Scrolling. (1
mark)
(k) Wildcard. (1
mark)
12. (a) What is document formatting? (1
mark)
(b) Give any five document formatting (5
features. marks)
[Link]
 (c) Differentiate between ‘Superscript’ and (2
‘Subscript’ font. marks)
(d) State one function of Drop Cap in a document. (1
mark)
13. (a) Explain the importance of Page numbers in a (1
document. mark)
(b) Explain how you can give different page numbering styles to different
pages in a
multipage document. (1 mark)

14. Differentiate between:

(a) A Hard page break and a Soft page break. (2
marks)
(b) Return address and Delivery address. (2
marks)
(c) AutoComplete and AutoCorrect. (2
marks)
(d) Drawing and inserting a table in a document. (2
marks)
(e) First line indentation and Hanging indentation (2
marks)
15. (a) Distinguish between Copying and Moving text. (2
marks)
(b) Explain how a paragraph can be moved from one page to another
using a word processor.
(4
marks)
16. Distinguish between margins and borders as used in word (2
processing. marks)
17. (a) What is Line spacing? (1
mark)
(b) Explain any three line spacing specifications used in (3
Microsoft Word. marks)
18. Give any four alignment features. (4
marks)
19. Give two advantages of using a Text box to write text in an (2
advertisement. marks)
20. (a) Explain the concept of importing objects into a word (1
processor. mark)
(b) What is the difference between object Linking and (2
Embedding? marks)
21. Give a reason why it may be necessary to merge cells in a (1
table. mark)
22. (a) List two arithmetic operations that can be performed on a row of
numeric data in a word
processing table. (1
mark)
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(b) In each case of (a) above, write the expression used. (2
marks)
23. (a) Define Mail merging. (2
marks)
(b) Outline the three basic steps required to mail merge a (3
document. marks)
(c). List any two ways of merging a document with its data (2
source. marks)
(d) Give three advantages of mail merge over copy and pasting several times
to mass mail a document?
(3 marks)

24. Give two advantages of previewing a document before printing.

(2 marks)
25. (a) Distinguish between Portrait and Landscape orientations.
(2 marks)
(b) State two reasons why it is necessary to specify the correct paper size
before printing a document? (2 marks)

26. Name two functions performed by a word processor.

(2 marks)

SPREADSHEETS – MS EXCEL

1. (a) What is Electronic spreadsheet software?

(2 marks)
(b). Explain the use of electronic spreadsheet software in business
organizations.
(4 marks)
2. Differentiate between the traditional analysis ledger sheet and an
electronic spreadsheet.
(5 marks)
3. (a) Describe the three components of a spreadsheet.
(3 marks)
(b) Apart from Microsoft Excel, give any two other application programs
classified as
spreadsheets. (2
marks)
4. Explain five application areas where spreadsheet software can (5
be used. marks)
5. Describe any five features (advantages) of electronic 5
spreadsheet software. marks)
[Link]
6. Explain the following terms as used in spreadsheets. (4
marks)
(a) Columns.
(b) Rows (c) Cell.
(d) Chart.
(e) Automatic recalculation.
7. Explain the concept of ‘What if’ analysis. (2
marks)
8. (a) Explain the term ‘Range’. (1 mark)
(b) State two actions that can be performed on ranges in (2
Microsoft Excel. marks)
9. State any four data types used in a spreadsheet. (2
marks)
10. List four formatting features provided by Microsoft Excel. (4
marks)
11. Define the following terms as used in computer environment. (3
marks)
(i). Operator
(ii). Operands
(iii). Operation
12. (a) Define the following terms as used in spreadsheets: (6
(i) values marks)
(ii) formula
(iii) Function
(iv) Labels
(b). List four mathematical functions provided by Microsoft Excel. (4
marks)
13. (a) The following is a simple payroll:
A B C D E F G H I
1 Nam Hours Hourl Basi Gros Tax NSSF Allowanc Net
e Worke y Rate c s Pay Deductio Contributio e Pay
d Pay ns ns
2 John 8 200
3 Peter 12 450
4 Sam 22 300
5 Njog 30 286
u
6 Mary 16 220
7 Sally 45 468
8 Jane 15 150
9 Tina 3 280

Write formulae using cell names for the following expressions. State
where the formula is placed: (10 marks)

(i) Basic pay = Hours worked x Hourly rate.

[Link]
 (ii) Allowances are allocated at 10% of the Basic pay.
(iii) Gross pay = Basic pay + Allowances.
(iv) Tax deduction is calculated at 20% of the Gross pay. (v) Net pay =
Gross pay – Tax deductions.
(b). List four types of information that can be entered into a spreadsheet
cell. (4 marks)
14. (a) What is a cell reference? (1
mark)
(b) Mention four examples of cell reference (2
marks)
(c) Distinguish between Absolute cell reference and Relative cell reference.
(2 marks)
(d) For each of the following, state the type of cell reference.
(4 marks)
i) A5
ii) $F$5 iii) H$21 iv) $D7
15. Compute: (2 marks)
(i). 37 MOD 5
(ii). 37 DIV 5
16. (a) A formula to add the contents of B5 and C4 was entered in cell F5.
What will it become when it is copied to cell H8?
(1 mark)
(b) Explain the reason for your answer. (2
marks)
17. (a) Write the formulae =F10 + G20 as absolute. (1
mark)
(b) The formulae =A1+C2 is initially typed in cells D1. What will it be
when copied to cell
E1? (1 mark)
(c) What is the equivalent R1C1 reference for G20?
(1 mark)

18. Give at least five categories of functions that are available in Microsoft
Excel. (5 marks)
19. What is the role of the following functions as used in a spreadsheet
program? (5 marks)
(a) Product
(b) SQRT
(c) Average
(d) Max
(e) IF
(f) COUNTIF
(g) SUMIF

[Link]
20. A worksheet contains the data shown below:
Cell A1 A2 A3 C1 C2 C3 G1
Entr 5 7 10 10 15 15 =SUMIF (C1:C3, “<> 10”,
y A1:A3)

State the value displayed in G1. (2 marks)

21. Explain why a value such as 611233444555 may be displayed as
######### when typed on a spreadsheet. (2 marks)
22. (a). Assuming that the formula ‘= A5 * $B2’ is in cell C10 of a
spreadsheet. Show how it
will appear after copying it to cell H12. (1 mark)
(b). Explain how you would select non-contiguous cells in spreadsheet. (2
marks)
23. A worksheet contains the data as shown below.

A B C D E F G
1 5 10
2 7 15
3 10 17
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
0

(a) The formula =COUNTIF (C1:C3, “> 10”) was entered at G1. Write down
the value that was displayed.
(2 marks)

(b) Write down the formula that would be entered at cell B7 to sum the
values in column A whose values are greater or equal to 5.
(3 marks)

(c) The formula = $C2 + C$3 is entered in cell C5 and then copied to D10.
Write down the formula as it appears in the destination cell.
(3 marks)

24. (a) What is a Chart wizard in spreadsheets? (1

mark)
(b) Give two examples of charts that you know. (2
marks)
[Link]
(c). Outline the steps required when creating a simple chart.
(6 marks)
25. Andrew, Jane, David and Zablon had Tea, Sausages and Bananas for
breakfast. They took one sausage, two sausages, three sausages and one
sausage respectively. In addition, they each took a cup of tea and two
bananas. Tea, sausages and bananas cost Ksh. 10, 15, and 5
respectively.
(a) By naming columns A, B, C, ………and rows 1, 2, 3……….Construct a
worksheet
showing the above information. (7 Marks)

(b) State the expression you would use to obtain:

i) Total expenditure by David. (4 marks) ii) Total number of
sausages taken. (2 marks) iii) The cost of the cheapest item.
(2 marks)
26. The following diagram is a Microsoft Excel worksheet containing the
scores of Form 1 students of Excellent High school.

A B C D E F G
1 STUDENT NAME ENG KISW MATH SCI
2 Ali Shah 75 65 80 78
3 Arthur Kamau 80 78 58 72
4 Maalim Ahmed 75 78 64 80
5 Harry Mutua 65 84 78 81
6 Martin Mulama 90 81 57 74
7 Keben Korir 73 65 85 78

Write Microsoft Excel formula to calculate:

(a) Total score for each student. (1
mark)
(b) Highest score per subject. (1
mark)
(c) Mean score per subject. (1
mark)
(d) Best overall student. (1 mark)
27. What is a cell reference error as used in spreadsheets? (1
mark)
28. A worksheet contains the data shown below:
A B C D
1 Jane
2 Kim
3 June
4 Jack

[Link]
 5 Jane

(a). The formula =IF(A1:A5 = “Jane”, 1, 0) is entered in cell B1

(i). State the value displayed (2 marks)
(ii). If the formula in B1 is copied and pasted to cells B2, B3, B4 and B5
respectively, fill in what is displayed in each cell.
(2 marks)

(b). Under what two conditions does a worksheet display # # # # # #

(2 marks)
(c). A spreadsheet application can be used in analysis of trends of
performance. List any three types of charts you can make.
(3 marks)

29. Consider the entries made in the cells below:

Cell B2 B3 C1 C1 C13
0 1
entry 20 10 B2 B3 =C10 +
0 0 C11

State the value displayed in cell C13. (1 mark)

30. A student presented a budget in the form of a worksheet as follows.
A B C
1 Item Amou
nt
2 Fare 200
3 Stationery 50
4 Bread 300
5 Miscellaneo 150
us
6 Total

The student intends to have spent half the amount by mid-term.

(a). Given that the value 0.5 is typed in cell B9, write the shortest formula
that would be typed in cell C2 and then copied down the column to
obtain half the values in column
B. (1 mark)

(b). Write two different formulae that can be typed to obtain the total in
cell B6 and then copied to cell C6.
(2 marks)

[Link]
31. The cells K3 to K10 of a worksheet contain remarks on students’
performance such as Very good, Good, Fair and Fail depending on the
average mark. Write a formula that can be used to count all students who
have the remark “Very good”. (3 marks)

32. The following information shows the income and expenditure for
“Bebayote” matatu for five days. The income from Monday to Friday was
Kshs. 4,000, 9,000, 10,000, 15,000, and 12,000 respectively while the
expenditure for the same period was Kshs. 2,000, 3,000, 7,000, 5,000,
and 6,000 respectively.

(i) Draw a spreadsheet that would contain the information. Indicate the
rows as 1, 2, 3 …. and the columns as A, B, C …..
(4 marks)

(ii) State the expression that would be used to obtain:

I Monday’s profit (2
marks)
II total income (2 marks)
III highest expenditure. (2
marks)
33. (a) Distinguish between the following sets of terms as used in
spreadsheets.
(i) Worksheet and workbook. (2
marks)

(ii) Filtering and sorting. (2

marks)
(b) State one way in which a user may reverse the last action taken in a
spreadsheet package.
(1 mark)
(c) The following is a sample of a payroll. The worksheet row and column
headings are marked 1, 2, 3 … and A, B, C … respectively.

A B C D E F G H
1 NAME HOURS PAY BASI ALLOWANCE GROS TAX NET
WORKE PER C PAY S S PAY DEDUCTION PAY
D HOU S
R
2 KORIR 12 1500
3 ATIENO 28 650
4 MUTISO 26 450
5 ASHA 30 900
6 MAINA 18 350

[Link]
7 WANJIKU 22.5 500
8 WANYAMA 24.5 250
9 OLESANE 17 180
1 MOSETI 33 700
0
TOTALS

Use the following expressions to answer the questions that follow:

• Basic pay = Hours worked x pay per hour
• Allowances are allocated at 10% of basic pay
• Gross pay = Basic pay + allowances
• Tax deductions are calculated at 20% of gross pay
• Net pay = Gross pay – tax deductions

Write formulae using cell references for the following cells:

i) D2 (1 mark)
ii) E4 (1 mark)
iii) F10 (1 mark)
iv) G7 (1 mark) (v) H5 (1 mark)

DATABASES – MS ACCESS

1. (a) Define a Database, and give two examples of database programs in

use today. (2 marks)
(b) List any two database objects. (2 marks)
2. List five features found in an electronic database management system.
(5 marks)

3. State three advantages of an electronic database over the traditional file

management system.
(3 marks)
4. (a) Distinguish between the following terms in relation to a database:
(6 marks)
i) Field type and field properties.
ii) Records and Fields.
iii) AND and OR operators.
(b). Explain three types of database models. (3
marks)
(c) Explain three major concerns in database systems. (3
marks)
5. (a) Distinguish between Flat file and Relational databases.
(2 marks)

[Link]
 (b) State three operations that can be performed on a relational database
files. (3 marks)
6. Identify five functions of a Database management system.
(5 marks)
7. Explain the importance of using Database management system in
organizations. (2 marks)
8. State the components of a Database hierarchy in ascending order.
(2 marks)
9. State the use of the following objects in Databases.
i) Tables (1 mark) ii) Forms (1 mark) iii) Query (1
mark) iv) Macros (1 mark) v) Reports (1 mark)
10. Name two different types of tools one can use to search for data in a
database. (1 mark)
11. (a) Differentiate between: (14 marks)
i) Primary key and Relationship.
ii) Tabular and Columnar form layout. iii)
Database file and Database table. iv)
Primary key and Index.
v) Field name and Caption.
vi) Table and Query. vii) Bound and unbound
control.
(b) What is the importance of the Primary key? (1
mark)
(c) State three types of relationships that can be used to link tables in
Databases.
(3 marks)
12. (a). Describe four major shortcomings of the conventional (paper) file
structures that are being addressed by the database approach. (4
marks)
(b). List any two methods used to secure data in a database.
(2 marks)

13. A student’s database comprises of students’ details table and fees

received table as shown below:

Students’ details table Fees Received table

Surname Date
Middle Name Amount
First Name Receipt Number
[Link]
 Admission
Number
Course

(i) State the primary key field for each table.

(2 marks)
(ii) State the field which should serve as the linking field for
the two tables.
(2 marks)

DESKTOP PUBLISHING (DTP) – MS PUBLISHER

1. (a) What is Desktop publishing? (2

marks)

[Link]
 (b) Give three examples of desktop publishing software available in the
market today.
(3 marks)
( c) State five features in desktop publishing.
(5 marks)

2. Identify four common features in word processing and desktop publishing

software.
(4 marks)
3. List four areas of DTP application. (2
marks)
4. Differentiate between the following:
(a) Pasteboard and Printable page. (2
marks)
(b) Margins and Column guides. (2
marks)
(c) Change case and drop cap. (2
marks)
(d) Kerning and tracking. (2 marks)
(e) Fill and line stroke. (2 marks)
5. Explain the following as used in DTP: (3 marks)
(a) Master pages.
(b) Layering.
(c) Placeholders / selection handles.
6. Why are master pages important in a publication? (1
mark)
7. (a) What are non-printing guides? (1
mark)
(b) Give three nonprinting guides used in PageMaker. (3
marks)
8. What does the term Gutter mean in relation to column setting?
(1 mark)
9. What commands are used in place of portrait and landscape page
orientation in PageMaker?
(1 mark)
10. Explain the function of each of the following tools on the PageMaker’s
toolbox.
(4
marks) i) Pointer tool ii) Text tool
iii) Rectangle tool
iv) Rotate tool
v) Zoom (magnifier) tool

11. Mention the three main purposes of a desktop publishing software.

(3 marks)

[Link]
12. Define the term artwork. (1 mark)
13. Give three methods that are used to transform an object.
(3 marks)

14. (a) What is Text wrap? (1

mark)

(b) Give three ways you can wrap text on an object.

(3 marks) (c) Explain the concept of wrapping text around objects.
(1 mark)

15. Explain the following graphic terms: (2

marks) i). Group. ii). Rotate.
iii). Crop.
16. State three ways of moving round the page in a Desktop Publishing
window. (3 marks)

INTERNET & E-MAIL

1. Explain the following: (3

marks)
(a) Internet.
(b) Intranet.
(c) File Server.
2. List any three major services provided on the Internet. (3
marks)
3. Name four facilities that are needed to connect to the Internet.
(4 marks)
4. Your manager wishes to be connected to the Internet. He already has a
powerful Personal Computer (PC), a Printer, and access to a Telephone
line. However, he understands that he will need a Modem.

Required:
(a) State why a modem is required to connect him to the Internet.
(2 marks)
(b) Suggest any four application areas in which you would expect a
supermarket retail
manager to use the Internet. (4 marks)

5. (a) What is a Website? (2

marks)

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 (b) Give the advantages and disadvantages of a Website.
(4 marks)
6. (a) What is meant by the term E-learning? (1
mark)
(b) A school intends to set-up an e-learning system. List three problems
that are likely to be encountered. (3 marks)

7. (a) What are network Protocols? (b) Write the following in full:
i) TCP/IP
ii) HTML
iii) HTTP
iv) FTP
8. (a) Explain the meaning of the following concepts as used in Internet:
(6 marks)

i) Internet service provider (ISP)

ii) Web pages
iii) Internet telephony iv) Browser software v) Hyperlink

(b) Name three examples of Internet Service Providers (ISP) in Kenya.

(3 marks)
9. Give two common examples of web browsing software. (1
mark)
10. Briefly describe four advantages of using Internet to disseminate
information compared to other conventional methods.
(8 marks)

11. (a) Identify the parts of the following e-mail address labelled A, B, C, and
D. (4 marks)

Iat@[Link]

A B C D
(b) Mention two examples of e-mail software. (2
marks)
12. A school has its e-mail address as mwangaza@[Link]. Briefly
explain this address code. (3 marks)
13. State two benefits of saving information from the Internet to your hard
disk. (2 marks)
14. Explain the following internet address [Link] in reference
to the structure of a URL. marks)

[Link]
15. Identify institutions whose e-mail addresses end with the following
extensions: (6 marks) i) .org ii) .edu iii) .com iv) .net
v) .mil vi)
.gov
16. (a) Discuss four advantages and two disadvantages that electronic mails
have over regular mails. (6 marks)
(b) Give three differences between Post-office mail and Electronic mail (E-
mail).
(3 marks)
17. (a) What is a Search engine? (2 marks)

(b) Give four examples of search engines you know. (2 marks)

(c) State two ways that search engines use to locate (2 marks)
Web pages.
18. List two advantages of using Hyperlinks when browsing (2 marks)
the Internet.
19. Differentiate between a www server and a Host (2 marks)
computer.
20. The Internet can be used to source information about emerging issues
that may not be available in print form. Give two advantages and two
disadvantages of information obtained from the Internet.
(4 marks)

DATA SECURITY & CONTROL

1. (a) Differentiate between Data Security and Data Integrity. (2

marks)
(b) Give the three types of data that should be protected in a (3
computer. marks)
2. State any three threats to data and information. (3
[Link]
 marks)
3. State five possible ways of preventing data loss from a (5
computer. marks)
4. (a) Define the term Computer crime. (2
marks)
(b) Explain the meaning of each of the following with reference to
computer crimes.
i) Tapping ii) Piracy.
iii) Trespass. iv)
Industrial espionage

v) Data
alteration vi)
Fraud vii)
Firewalls
5. Give two reasons that may lead to computer fraud.
(2 marks)
6. Outline four ways of preventing piracy with regard to data and
information. (4 marks)
7. (a) Differentiate between Hacking and Cracking with reference to
computer crimes.
(2 marks)
(b) Describe the following terms with respect to computer security:
(6 marks) (i) Audit trail.
(ii) Data Encryption.
(iii) Log files.
(iv) Firewalls. (v) Physical security (vi) Logic bombs.
8. (a) What is a Computer virus? (2 marks)
(b) Outline four symptoms of a virus infection in a computer system. (4
marks)
(b) State two damages which a computer virus may cause to a computer.
(2 marks)
(c) Explain three control measures you would take to protect your
computers from virus attacks. (3 marks)

9. List three functions of an antivirus software. (3

marks)
10. Computer systems need maximum security to prevent an unauthorized
access. State six precautions that you would expect an organization to
take to prevent illegal access to its computer-based systems.
(6 marks)

11. (i) Explain what is meant by the term “computer security”

(2 marks)

[Link]
 (ii) State two environmental factors that can affect operations of a
computer. (2 marks)
(iii) State two control techniques or measures that can be implemented to
prevent the effect in
(i) above. (2 marks)

12. Explain why the following controls should be implemented for computer
based systems.

i) Backups (2 marks) ii) Air conditioning (2 marks) iii)

Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) (2 marks) iv) Segregation of
duties (2 marks) v) Passwords (2 marks)
13. Give four rules that must be observed in order to keep within the law
when working with data and information.
(4 marks)

14. (a) Define the term Computer ethics. (1

marks)
(b) Give two examples to show how a person who has committed a
computer crime can help to improve a computer system.
(2 marks)

[Link]
FORM THREE - DATA REPRESENTATION IN COMPUTERS

1. Data in a computer is represented in one major form. Define the term

‘Data representation’ in a computer.
(1 mark)

2. (a) Differentiate between Analogue data and Digital data.

(2 marks)
(b) Draw a sketch of:
(i). Analogue data signal. (1 mark)
(ii). Digital data signal. (1 mark)
3. Give two reasons for the popularity of binary number representation.
(2 marks) 4. Explain the role of a Modem in communication.
(2 marks)
5. Distinguish between the following terms as used in data representation in
computers:
(i). A Byte and a Nibble. (2
marks)
(ii). Word and Word length. (2
marks)
6. Arrange the following data units in ascending
order of size.
BYTE, FILE, BIT, NIBBLE. (2
marks)
7. Write out what A, B, C and D represent in the table (4
below. marks)
Number Values
System
A 0, 1
B 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
C 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
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 D 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, A, B, C,
D, E, F

8. Perform the following computer arithmetic. In each case, show how you
arrive at your answer.

(a) Convert the following Decimal numbers to their Binary equivalent.

i) 11 (1
mark)
ii) 001 iii) 457 (1
(b) Convert the following Octal numbers to their Binary mark)
equivalent.
i) 77 (2
marks)
ii) 0000001 (2
marks)
(c) Use Binary addition to solve the following decimal
summations.
i) 410 + 310 (2
marks)
ii) 1310 + 210 (2
marks)
(d) Convert the following Hexadecimal numbers to their Binary equivalent.
i) C3 (3 marks) ii) 13 (3 marks)
(e) Convert the following Binary numbers to their Hexadecimal equivalent.
i) 110111.11 (2 marks) ii) 1.1110101 (2 marks) iii)
110000111111111111 (2 marks)
9. (a) State one use of hexadecimal notation in a computer.
(1 mark)
(b) Convert 7678 to hexadecimal. (2
marks)
10. Use One’s compliment to solve the following sums:
i) 9 – 6 (3
marks) ii) 17 – 15
(3 marks) iii) 1110 – 1011
(2 marks) iv) 111010 – 110011
(2 marks)
11. Perform the following conversions:
i) 20.216 to decimal. (3 marks) ii) 111012 to Decimal. (3 marks)
12. (a) Perform the following Binary arithmetic: 75 + 45
(2 marks)
(b). Use Two’s compliment to perform the following Binary subtraction:

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 i) 10111 – 10001 (2
marks) ii) 11000 – 10011 (2
marks)
13. Use Two’s compliment to solve the following SUMS (the numbers are in
decimal notation)

i) 23 – 20 (3
marks) ii) 17 – 14
(3 marks)
14. Perform the following binary arithmetic:
(i). 11100111 + 00101110 (1 mark)
(ii). 1000 – 101 (using 2’s complement) (2 marks)
15. Convert the decimal number 4 ¾ into binary form.
(4 marks)
16. Convert the binary coded decimal number given into its hexadecimal
equivalent.
100010012 (show your work clearly) (2
marks)

17. Work out the 8-bit binary two’s complement of the number -2 10
(3 marks)
18. Convert the hexadecimal number FC1 to its binary equivalent. (6
marks)
19. Convert 7AE16 to a decimal number. (2
marks)
20. State three methods of representing data in binary number system.
(3 marks)
21. (a) Explain Binary Coded Decimal code of data representation.
(1 mark)
(b) Write the number 45110 in BCD notation. (1
mark)
22. (a) Subtract 01112 from 10012 (1
mark)
(b) Using two’s complement, subtract 7 from 4 and give the answer in
decimal notation.
(4 marks)
(c) Convert:
i) 91B16 to octal (3 marks)
ii) 3768 to hexadecimal (3 marks) (iii) 9.62510 to binary (4
marks)

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DATA PROCESSING

1. Distinguish between Data and Information. (2

marks)
2. Using an illustration, describe the four primary stages of the data
processing cycle. (6 marks)
3. Clearly differentiate between the following processing terms:
i) Data collection and Data capture. (2 marks)
ii) Verification and Validation. (2 marks)
4. (a) Give four methods of data collection. (4
marks)
(b) Outline the stages of data collection.
(3 marks)
5. (a) Explain the relevance of the term Garbage in Garbage out (GIGO) in
reference to errors in data processing.
(1 mark)
(b) Explain two main types of errors in data processing.
(2 marks)
6. (a) Name and explain the two types of transcription errors.
(3 marks)
(b) State three types of computational errors.
(3 marks)
7. (a) Define the term Data integrity (1
mark)
(b) State three ways of minimizing threats to data integrity.
(3 marks) 8. (a) Briefly explain the following data processing modes:
i) Online processing. (2 marks) ii) Real-time processing. (2
marks) iii) Batch processing. (2 marks) iv) Distributed
processing. (2 marks) v) Multi-programming (multi-tasking).
(2 marks) vi) Multi-processing. (2 marks)
vii) Interactive processing. (2
marks)
viii) Remote job entry. (2
(b) Differentiate between: marks)
(i). CPU bound jobs and I/O bound jobs. (4
marks)
(ii). Command files and Text files. (2
marks)
9. (a) Mention five features of a Real-time system. (5
marks)
(b) Name two industries that extensively use Real-time (2
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 processing. marks)
(c) Give three advantages and two disadvantages of a Real- (5
time system. marks)
(d) In Real-time systems, Front-End Processors are quite useful. State any
three reasons why you think they are important.
(3 marks)
(e) State why an online data processor should be a real-time processor in a
multi-access plant.
(2 marks)
10. Most companies are now shifting from the use of centralized mainframe
computers to the use of geographically distributed personal computers.
This method of data processing is known as Distributed Data Processing
(DDP).

i) Name any three computing resources that can be distributed.

(3 marks)
ii) Explain three ways in which microcomputers/personal computers can
be networked to form a distributed data processing system.
(6 marks)
iii) Name four examples of industries and business organizations that
extensively use
distributed processing systems. (4
marks)
iv) List down two benefits and three risks that might be associated with
the distributed data processing system.
(5 marks)

11. Explain time sharing data processing mode, giving two advantages and
two disadvantages of its application.
(6 marks)
12. (a) Give two benefits that are derived from Multi-programming.
(2 marks)
(b) In a Multiprogramming environment, how does the Operating system
ensure that users’ input and output do not get jumbled (cluttered) up?
(1 mark)

13. List three factors to be considered when deciding on the choice of an

electronic data
processing method. (3
marks)
14. (a) What is a Computer file? (2
marks)
(b) Name the three constituent parts of a computer file. (3
marks)
(b) State and explain five different types of data (5
processing files. marks)
15. Distinguish between Logical and Physical computer (2
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files. marks)
16. Arrange the following components of the information system data
hierarchy in ascending order of complexity:

Field, Database, Byte, Record, Bit, and File (4

marks)
Provide a brief description for each component. (4
marks)
17. (a) State three advantages of storing data in computer files over the
manual filing system.
(3 marks)
(b) List four problems faced when using standard files for data processing
systems.
(4 marks)
18. (a) What is File organization? (2
marks)
(b) Describe what is meant by each of the following filing systems: (4
marks) i) Serial.
ii) Sequential. iii)
Indexed sequential.
iv) Random.
(c) State three advantages of random file organization. (3
marks)
19. State four file processing methods in a computer. (4
marks)
20. State why it is important to have the following computer file components:
Beginning-of-file marker and End-of-file marker.
(1 mark)

21. Differentiate between “Serial access” and “Direct access”. Give an

example of a storage media in each case.
(4 marks)

22. A serial file comprises of records placed in positions 1 to 10. State the
position of the end of file marker.
(1 mark)

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PROGRAMMING

SECTION A:
1. Define the following terms: (6
marks)
i) Computer Program ii)
Programming. iii)
Programming
language. iv) Program
portability. v) Algorithm
vi) Pseudocode.
2. (a) What are low-level languages? Give their features. (4
marks)
(b) State 2 advantages and disadvantages of low-level languages.
(4 marks)
(c) Identify two types of Low-level languages. (2
marks)
3. Distinguish between Machine language and Assembly language.
(2 marks)
4. Most computer programming is carried out using High-level languages.
(a) What are High-level languages? (2
marks) (b) Give three features of high-level programming languages.
(3 marks) (c) Give three advantages of High-level languages as
opposed to Low-level languages.
(3 marks)

5. List three considerations which are present in Assembly language

programming but not in high-level programming.
(3 marks)

6. (a) Examine two features of fourth generation languages (4GLS)

(2 marks)
(b) Highlight four advantages of fourth generation languages (4
(4GLS) marks)
(c) List three examples of fourth generation programming (3
languages. marks)
7. Describe the main feature of fifth generation languages. (1
mark)
8. (a) Define the term Object-Oriented programming. (2
(b) List two examples of: marks)
(i) third generation languages (2
marks)
(ii) object oriented languages. (2
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 marks)
(c) Give an advantage of using an object-oriented programming (1
language. mark)
9. Explain the meaning of the following as used in computer (2
programming. marks)
(ii). Syntax
(iii). Semantic
10. Describe 5 factors to be considered while choosing a programming
language. (5 marks)
11. Differentiate between the following as used in programming:
(a) Source program and object code. (1
mark)
(b) Flowchart and Pseudocode. (2
marks)
12. What does the following abbreviations stand for: (2
i) FORTRAN ii) marks)
COBOL
iii) OOP

13. (a) Define a Language translator. (1

(b) What is the purpose of the following translator mark)
programs?
i) Assembler. (1
mark)
ii) Compiler. (1
mark)
iii) Interpreter. (1
mark)
(c) For each of the following programming languages, give their respective
translators.
(2 marks)
14. Give two advantages of compiling a program rather than interpreting it.
(2 marks)
15. Outline the seven stages in program development cycle in their logical
sequence. (7 marks)
16. In program development cycle, what takes place in:

(a) Problem definition. (1 mark)

(b) Program documentation. (1
mark)
17. Give two reasons why it is necessary to have a program design.
(2 marks)
18. Using illustrations, explain at least six symbols used in flowchart design.
(6 marks)

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19. (a) Identify and briefly describe two types of flowcharts. (4
marks)
(b) State any four rules you would follow when: (8
marks)
i) Writing a pseudocode.
ii) Drawing a flowchart
(c). Give two advantages of pseudocodes over flowcharts. (2 marks) 20.
Define the following types of computer program errors:
(b) Syntax error. (2 marks)
(c) Logical error. (2 marks)
(d) Run-time (Execution) error. (2 marks)
(e) Semantic error. (2 marks)
21. What do you understand by the following terms:
(a) Dry running. (1 mark)
(b) Structured walkthrough. (1
mark)
(c) Test data. (1 mark)
(d) User Defined Function/ Procedure (UDF) (1
mark)
22. (a) What is Program Documentation? (2
marks)
(b) In what stage of the development does program documentation take
pace? (1 mark)
(c) State two reasons for documenting all the stages of program
development. (2 marks)
(d) Describe three types of program documentation in reference to
programming. (6 marks)

23. Briefly explain the purpose of the following types of program documents.
(3 marks)
(i). User manual/guide
(ii). Reference guide
(iii). Quick reference guide.
24. (a) Explain the meaning of Program control structures. (2
marks) (b) State the three basic types of program control structures.
(3 marks) (c) Draw simple flowcharts to illustrate the following
program control structure:
i). The Nested IF
selection ii). The
FOR loop
iii). REPEAT…UNTIL loop. (3
marks)
25. Name the control structure depicted by the (1
flowchart below. mark)

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26. Highlight two disadvantages of monolithic (2
programs. marks)
27. (a) Define the term Structured programming. (2
marks)
(b) List any two characteristics of Structured (2
programming. marks)
(c) Give two benefits of Structured programming. (2
marks)
28. Structured programming language and Object-oriented programming
language are the two main forms of high-level languages. State the
difference between the two? (4 marks)

29. (a) Define the term Selection in relation to program control (1

structures. mark)
(b). List four selection control structures used in writing a (4
program. marks)
30. State four features of a user-friendly program. (4
marks)

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SECTION B:

1. Draw a flowchart for a program that would enable the user to enter
student marks. The program should then determine whether the mark
entered is a pass or fail given that the pass mark is 50.
(5 marks)

2. Write a pseudocode that reads temperature for each day in a week, in

degree celcius, converts the celcius into Fahrenheit and then calculate the
average weekly temperatures. The program should output the calculated
average in degrees Fahrenheit. (5 marks)

3. Draw a flowchart to be used to develop a program to calculate the Area

and Perimeter of a Rectangle. The user is required to input the Length
and Width of the rectangle after which she then chooses either to
calculate area or perimeter using the input data. The program then
outputs the results of the chosen calculation.
(8 marks)

4. (a). Develop a Pseudocode which will simulate the processing of Student’s

report. The simulation should be such that the user repeatedly inputs
marks per subject for six subjects using a looping control structure. The
computer processes the total marks and
mean score of the student.
Note. 1. It is assumed that the student does six subjects.
2. The outputs required are; Average score and Total marks. (5
marks)

(b). Draw a fitting flowchart for question 1 (a) above. (5 marks)

5. Study the following flowchart diagram.

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 START

READ Student Name & Marks

Last record? STOP

Calculate Average

Average> 50%? PRINT Pass

PRINT Fail

PRINT Student Report

STOP

i) Identify three problems with this flowchart (3

marks) ii) Describe briefly what this program is supposed to do.
(2 marks)
iii) Modify this flowchart using a loop such that it processes a number of
students records starting with the first until there are no more student
records. (3 marks)

6. Mwalimu Savings Society (MSS) pays 5% interest on shares exceeding

100,000 shillings and 3% on shares that do not meet this target.
However, no interest is paid on deposits in the member’s MSS bank
account.

(a) Design a pseudocode for a program that would:

i). Prompt the user for shares and deposit of a particular member.
ii). Calculate the interest and total savings.
iii). Display the interest and total savings on the screen for a
particular member of the society. (7 marks)

(b) Draw a flowchart for the above pseudocode. (8

marks)
7. The following is a Pseudocode developed for processing employees’
payslips. Read through the Pseudocode carefully, then draw a fitting
flowchart. (5 marks)
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 Start
Initialize employee count to 0
Open employee file
Repeat
Read employee record
Compute gross pay
Compute deduction amount
Compute net pay
Output employee ID, gross pay, deduction, and net pay
Add 1 to count
Until end of employee file
Close employee file
Stop

8. A man deposits 1,000 in a bank at an interest rate of 10% per year. At the
end of each year, the interest earned is added to the amount on deposit
and this becomes the new deposit for the next year.
Develop a pseudocode to determine the year in which the amount
accumulated first exceeds 2,000. Also for each year, print the year
(starting from 1), the deposit, the Interest earned, and the total
accumulated at the end of the year.

9. Classify the following examples in any of the three program control

structures. (3 marks)

i) Statement 1
Statement 2
.
.
Statement n
…………………………...…………………………………………………………...
…… ii) IF YourMarks > Mean THEN PRINT Universal Donor ELSE
PRINT UniversalReceiver
…………………………...…………………………………………………………...…

iii) WHILE ExamTime Is Not Over

Read question carefully
Understand question
Think clearly
Answer appropriately
ENDWHILE

…………………………...…………………………………………………………...…

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10. Show exactly what is printed (output) by the following program:
(3 marks)

PROGRAM MockExam (Input, Output);

CONST
Adjustment = 5;
VAR A, B, C: Integer;
Begin
Readln (A, B, C);
A: = A*B+A+Adjustment;
B: = B+Adjustment;
Writeln (‘The Answers are’, B, C, A, Adjustment);
END. (*PreExam*)
Use these data items: 1 2 3 as test for a, b, and c respectively.
…………………………...…………………………………………………………...
…………
…………………………...…………………………………………………………...
…………
11. Study the flowchart diagram below and answer the questions that follow:
Start

Sum: = 0
R: = 0

R=R+1
TERM: = R + (2)R
SUM: =SUM + TERM

NO
R =3?

YES

PRINT S um

STOP

(a) What will be the value of sum when printed? Show your workings.
(5 marks) (b) Write a Pseudocode for the above flowchart.
(10 marks)
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12. A program is required for reading in a students’ name and the scores
obtained in two subjects. The output of the program will consist of the
student’s name, the two scores, the average of the two scores and a
comment. The comment is based on the average as follows:

Average Comment
>=70 Good
<70 Poor

Write a program to solve the problem using a high-level language. (10

marks)

13. Draw a flowchart that will read a number N and then output the sum of
squares from 1 to N.
(10 marks)
14. (a) Draw a flowchart that can be used to write a program for displaying
the first 1000 integers in the series of 2, 4, 6….
(7 marks)

(b) Modify the flowchart to sum up the numbers in (b) i above. (3

marks)
15. The gross salary of employees of Mutson Chemist is based on the Basic
salary and additional benefits. Employees with more than 10 year’s
experience get an additional pay of 10% of their basic salary. Bonuses are
given as per employees sales of the month as:
>200,000 15
%
100,000 – 200,000 10
%
Below 100,000 5%
Draw a flowchart for the program that will calculate Gross salary and
output each employees
Basic salary, Gross salary and all benefits. (15
marks)

16. The following flowchart can be used to list the even numbers between 1
and 100 inclusive.

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 Start

Even =2

Write (Even)
Even = Even +2

Is Even < YES

100

NO

Stop

(a) What will be the output from the flowchart if the statement in the
decision box is changed to:
(6 marks)

(i) Even = 100

(ii) Even =< 100 (iii) Even > 100.
(b) Modify the flowchart so that it prints the sum of all the even numbers
between.
(5 marks)
(c) Suppose a 10 element array A contains the values 9, 10, 5, 6, 7, 1, 0,
20, 21, and 11.
Find the values in A after executing the loop below. (4
marks)
REPEAT for K = 1 TO 10
Set A [K + 1] = A [K]
End Loop

17. Bidii wholesalers has two categories of customers for order processing.
Category ‘A’ obtains 10% discount on all orders up to Ksh. 10,000
otherwise the discount is 20% on the entire order. Category ‘B’ obtains
30% discount on all orders if the debt repayment is ‘good’ otherwise the
discount is 15%. Draw a flowchart for the order processing. (15 marks)

18. (a) State the stage of program development in which: (2

marks)
(i) a flowchart would be drawn
(ii) the programmer would check whether the program does as
required

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 (iii) the user guide would be written
(iv) the requirements specifications would be written.
(b) State the output of the following flowchart segment.

A = 30

B = 28

B=A

A=B

Write A, B

(2 marks)

(c) Draw a flowchart to compute the combined resistance (R) of two

resistors R1 and R2 in parallel using the formula;

R= 1
1 + 1
R1 R2 (5½ marks)
19. Draw a flowchart to compare three non-equal numeric values A, B, C and
print the largest of the three.
(11 marks)

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
1. (a) What is a System? (2
marks)
(b) Differentiate between soft systems and hard systems.
(2 marks)
(c) Explain five characteristics of a system. (5
marks)
2. (a) Define the term Information system. (2
marks)
(b) State and explain three purposes of information systems in
organizations. (3 marks)
(c) Highlight three circumstances that necessitate the development of new
information
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 systems. (3 marks)

3. State four roles played by an Information system analyst.

(4 marks)
4. Define the following terms:
i) System control. ii)
System boundary. iii)
Online analytical
processing.
5. Explain three system development theories and methods.
(6 marks)
6. (a) State one disadvantage of the Traditional approach in system
development.(1 mark)
(b) State one advantage and one disadvantage of Rapid Application
Development method.
(2
marks)
7. (a) Define the term System development lifecycle. (2
marks)
(b) Outline seven stages followed when creating an (7
information system. marks)
8. (a) Define the term Feasibility study as used in system (2
development. marks)
(b) List four contents of a feasibility study report. (4
marks)
9. Your school has a plan to acquire and install computers.
(a) List six criteria considered when deciding between the various
computer suppliers who have submitted their tenders.
(6 marks)
(b) The school’s Board of Governors has employed an independent expert
to carry out the feasibility study of the project. List four essential
components of this study. (4 marks)
(c) State any five in-depth fact findings about the existing school system.
(5 marks)
10. (a) State the importance of information gathering (fact-finding) in system
development.
(2 marks)
(b) State four methods that can be used to gather information during
system development.
(4 marks)
11. (a) Identify two advantages and two disadvantages of Observation
method used in factfinding. (4 marks)
(b) State two advantages and two disadvantages of the Interview method
when used for information gathering.
(4 marks)

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12. Explain the concept of Proxemics in interviews. (1
mark)
13. (a) State three merits and three demerits of using a questionnaire in
information gathering.
(6 marks)
(b) Name three circumstances in which it is better to use a Questionnaire
than an Interview for gathering information. (3 marks)

14. (a) Explain the importance of using Automated methods in fact finding.
(1 mark)
(b) Give one example of Automated information gathering technique.
(1 mark)
15. Mention the four areas that are considered during the requirements
specification stage.
(4 marks)
16. Explain three factors that should be considered during output design.
(6 marks)
17. (a) State four factors that may be considered in order to design a good
file. (4 marks) (b) Explain why it is important to consider file backup
and recovery strategies during file
design. (1
mark)

18. Define the term “Attribute” (1

mark)
19. Outline three factors that should be considered when sourcing for
hardware and software resources required for a new system.
(3 marks)

20. State two methods/tools that a system Analyst may use to design a
system. (2 marks)
21. (a) Differentiate between a System flowchart and a Program flowchart.
(2 marks)
(b) Draw four system flowchart symbols and explain their functions.
(4 marks)
22. Explain three tasks that are carried out during system implementation.
(3 marks)
23. (a). What is systems documentation. (2
marks)
(b) In the context of information systems development, illustrate the
significance of systems documentation.
(8 marks)
(c) List any four tools that systems analysts may use to document their
findings or design options during Systems analysis and design.
(4 marks)

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 (d) Outline four contents of a User manual. (4
marks)
24. Most information systems are reviewed or critically examined 3 – 6
months after they have been implemented or put into operation.

i) State the purpose or objective of this review. (4

marks) ii) List four areas of systems operation on which the review
focuses. (4 marks)
25. The company you work for has decided to replace its inventory control
system. The current system was implemented ten years ago but has
restricted reporting facilities and has a textbased interface. As the project
manager, you are now considering details of implementation.
You have been advised that you should consider both ‘Parallel running”
and “direct changeover/conversion”.

(a) Explain the following terms as used in program implementation:

(2 marks) i) Parallel running.
ii) Direct changeover
(b) Give one advantage of Direct changeover over Parallel running.
(1 mark)
(c) Identify two main risks of direct changeover, and suggest how these
risks might be reduced for the inventory control system
implementation. (6 marks)

26. Your school wishes to replace the original filing system with an Information
and Communication Technology (ICT) system.

(a) Name two things the school must be sure of before replacing the old
system. (2 marks)

(b) Mention four problems that may arise incase the manual system is
phased out completely and replaced with the ICT system.
(4 marks)

(c) Give two advantages of running both the manual system and the ICT
system
simultaneously. (2 marks)

(d) Mention any two disadvantages of running the two systems

simultaneously. (2 marks)

(e) Outline five basic qualifications of the IT manager should the school
need to employ one. (5 marks)
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FORM FOUR - NETWORKING & DATA COMMUNICATION
1. Define the following terms: (2
marks)
(i). Computer network.
(ii). Data communication.
2. (a) Describe the three methods of data transmission on a network.
(3 marks)
(b) State the factors to be considered while selecting a data transmission
system. (3 marks)

3. Differentiate between a MODEM and a MULTIPLEXER. (2

marks)
4. Differentiate between: (8
marks)
(a) A baseband and broadband signal.
(b) A Network server and a workstation.
(c) Remote client and remote host.
(d) Half duplex and full duplex transmissions.
5. A student typed an e-mail to send over the Internet through a modem
working at a speed of 100 Mbps. Calculate the maximum number of
characters that can be sent per second if each character consists of 8 bits.
(2 marks)

6. Explain the meaning of the following terms as used in networking:

(i). Baud. (1 mark)
(ii). Baud rate. (1 mark)
(iii). Band. (1 mark)
(iv). Bandwidth. (1 mark)
(v). Guard band. (1 mark)
(vi). Broadband (1 mark)
(vii). Base band (1 mark)
(viii). Resource (1 mark)
(ix). Server (1 mark)
(x). Client / workstation (1 mark)
(xi). Peer. (1 mark)
7. Explain three advantages and three disadvantages of computer
networking. (6 marks)
8. (a) State the type of data communication media that could be used in an
electronically noisy environment.
(1 mark)
(b) Explain your answer in (a) above. (1
mark)

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9. (a) Examine the major characteristics of each of the three types of
computer networks.
(9 marks)
(b) Briefly explain four important benefits of using Local Area Networks
(LANs) at an
institution such as a college. (8 marks)
(c) List three differences between Wide Area Network (WAN) and Local
Area Network
(LAN). (3 marks)
10. (a) Define the term Transmission media. (1
mark)
(b) Give two advantages and two disadvantages of each of the following
network transmission media.

i) Twisted pair cables.

ii) Coaxial cables. iii) Fibre optic cables. iv) Wireless /
Microwave / Radio transmission.

11. Explain the line of sight principle in wireless communication. (1

mark)
12. (a) Explain the function of each of the following on a network:
i) Network Interface Card (1
mark)
ii) Repeater (1
mark)
iii) Gateway. (1
mark)
(b) Differentiate between a router and a gateway as used in (2
networking. marks)

13. (a) Study the diagram below and answer the questions that follow:

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 C D

i) Name the communication media depicted in the above (1

diagram. mark)
ii) Name the parts labelled A, B, C and D. (4
marks)
iii) List three advantages of the above communication (3
media. marks)
14. (a) Compare and contrast a Brouter and a Router. (2
marks)
(b) Give one disadvantage of a Hub on a network. (1
mark)
15. (a) Define a computer terminal as used in a communication (1
network. mark)
(b) List any two items that may be referred to as Data Terminal Equipment
in a network
(2 marks)
(c) Distinguish between an intelligent terminal and a dump terminal.
(2 marks)
16. (a) List two types of network software. (2
marks)
(b) Outline five functions of network operating system.
(5 marks)
17. (a) Give three examples of protocols used in networking.
(2 marks) (b) Outline the seven open system interconnection (OSI)
reference model layers.
(7 marks)

W X Y

[Link].k e
18. (a) Define the term Network topology. (2
marks)
(b) Distinguish between Logical and Physical network topology.
(2 marks)
19. State and briefly describe any five types of physical network topologies
used in LAN.
(10 marks)
20. (a). Briefly explain the following terms as used in networking: (2 marks)
(i). Remote communication. (ii). Distributed processing.
(b). State three advantages and two disadvantages of a mesh network
topology. (5 marks)

21. (a) With the aid of a diagram, explain hierarchical (tree) network topology.
(3 marks) (b) List two advantages and two disadvantages of hierarchical
network topology.
(4 marks)
22. State the purpose of each of the following:
(2 marks)
(i) file server software
(ii) communication software
23. (a) The diagram below shows four common network topologies A, B, C
and D.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
TOPOLOGY A
TOPOLOGY B

TOPOLOGY C TOPOLOGY D

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 Server Terminal Prin
ter

(i) Name the network topologies labelled A, B, C (4

and D. marks)
(ii) Explain what happens if server X in topology A (1
fails. mark)
(iii) List two problems associated with network (2
topology B. marks)
(iv) List two disadvantages associated with network (2
topology D. marks)
(b) Differentiate between Internet and World Wide Web. (2
marks)
(c) Describe the following network services and identify their
applications.
(i) Voice mail. (2
marks)
(ii) Video conferencing. (2
marks)

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APPLICATION AREAS OF ICT

1. What is ICT? (1
mark)
2. Name the type of processing that would be required by a payroll system.
(1 mark)
3. Outline two ways in which computers can be used in hotels.
(2 marks)
4. State two ways on how Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
can be used to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS.
(2 marks)

5. (a) Identify two benefits of using computers in accounting systems.

(2 marks) (b) List down any four modules within an accounting package,
stating the purpose for each
(6 marks)
6. (a) List four functions of a computerized Stock control system.
(4 marks)
(b) Name two organizations that would benefit the most from
computerized stock control systems. (2 marks)

7. (a) How is a point of sale terminal used in a business organization?

(2 marks)
(b) State four components of an electronic Point-of-sale terminal.
(4 marks)
(c) Give two advantages of using electronic point-of-sale terminals as
opposed to manual entry at a supermarket checkout counter.
(2 marks)

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8. Write the following abbreviations in full: (4
marks)
i) ATM
ii) EFTPOS iii) CAD/CAM

9. Define the following terms:

(a) Biometric analysis
(b) Telecommuting (c) Video conferencing.
10. Outline four devices required in order to conduct a video conference.
(4 marks)
11. With the improvement in price and performance of computers and
communication equipment, it will be possible for people in various
business organizations to work from home. Such working using a PC as a
remote terminal is often described as teleworking. State three
advantages and three disadvantages of working from home. (6
marks)

12. (a) Define the term E-commerce. (2

marks)
(b) List down two advantages and two disadvantages of e-commerce as
used in modern
business environment. (4
marks)
(c) Explain two ways in which ICT can enhance commerce. (2
marks)
13. (a) Explain the term “Virtual Reality” (2
mark)
(b) List three areas where virtual reality is used. (3
marks)
(c) List down four interactive sensory devices used in virtual (3
reality. marks)
14. (a) What is an Expert system? (1
mark)
(b) State and explain any three components of an Expert system. (6
marks)
(c) Identify at least two areas where Expert systems are used. (2
marks)

15. Describe how computing has been applied to each of the

following areas:
(a) Educational systems. (2
marks)
(b) Transportation systems. (2

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 marks)
(c) Financial systems. (2
marks)
(d) Scientific research. (2
marks)
(e) Entertainment systems. (2
marks)
(f) Reservation systems (2
marks)
(g) Law enforcement (2
marks)
(h) Library management systems (2
marks)
16. State three areas where computers are used in financial systems:
(3 marks)
17. Differentiate between:
i). An electronic point of sale terminal and a
Cash register ii). Computer aided instruction and
Computer aided learning iii). Computer aided
design and Computer aided manufacturing iv).
Teletext and Videotex
v). Simulation and Virtual reality
18. (a) Despite the introduction of the ATM card, human resource is still
necessary in the banks.
Give two reasons why humans are still needed.
(2 marks)

(b) State four advantages to the users of the cards.

(4 marks)
(c) Give two safety precautions that the card owners should observe to
ensure security of their money.
(2 marks)

19. (a) Define Process control. (2

marks)
(b) Name four different industries where computerized process control
systems can be found
(4 marks)
20. Simulation is one of the application areas of computers.
(a) What is meant by the term simulation? (1 mark)
(b) Name two application areas of simulation. (2 marks)
(c) State three advantages of computer based simulation. (3 marks)
(d) Give two actual dangers in projecting using computer (2 marks)
models.
21. (a) Define Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing (2 marks)
(CAD/CAM)
(b) List five features of CAD. (5 marks)
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 (c) State any three areas where CAD is applied in the (3 marks)
society today.
(d) State one advantage of using CAD software. (1 mark)
22. (a). Explain the role of robots in a motor vehicle (1 mark)
assembling plant.
(b). Mention four areas where robots are used. (4 marks)
(c). Identify two advantages of using of robots in industries. (2 marks)

23. (a) Explain how computers are used in the medical (2 marks)
field.
(b) In what ways have computers enhanced space (2 marks)
exploration?
24. Give any three uses of computers in the shipping (3 marks)
industry.
25. Suggest how computers may in future be made user-friendly for persons
that are:
(a) Blind. (1 mark)
(b) Without hands. (1
mark)
26. Give at least four reasons why a firm may decide to computerize its
operations. (4 marks)

IMPACT OF ICT ON SOCIETY

1. Identify four benefits that may be derived from increased use of

information technologies.
(4 marks)
2. Identify four problems associated with the introduction of computers in a
society.
(4 marks)
3. State two health issues that may result from prolonged use of computers.
(2 marks)
4. (a) A recent breakthrough in the manufacturing industry is the
development of a full manufacturing plant that can produce vehicles
using robots only. Give three advantages and two disadvantages of fully
automated manufacturing. (5 marks)

(b) Apart from manufacturing, state three other areas where automation is
applicable.
(3 marks)
5. Computers have proved to be useful in many areas of life though with
negative effects to the user.

(i). State any two negative effects of computers to human health.

(2 marks)

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 (ii). State two practices that can be observed in order to ensure the safety
of computer users.
(2 marks)

6. Explain three ways by which computer users can protect their eyes from
harmful emissions from the computer screen. (6 marks)

7. (a) Explain how the use of ICT may affect the environment.
(3 marks)
(b) Explain three ways in which computers have impacted on education.
(3 marks)
8. (a) Define the term artificial intelligence. (2
marks)
(b) Discuss the applications of Artificial Intelligence in each of the
following fields:
i) Expert Systems. (2 marks) ii) Natural language processing.
(2 marks) iii) Artificial Neural Networks. (2 marks) iv) Robotics.
(2 marks)
9. List and explain four advantages of using:
i) A computerized system. (4
marks) ii) A database system.
(4 marks)

10. ITCity Inc has been performing quite well in the past year. The
management strongly feels that by automating all operations, the
company will have a competitive edge. However, most of the staff and
part of the management are strongly opposed to the idea of automating
the company’s operations.

Required:
(a) State and explain five reasons why the staff may be opposed to the
idea of automating the company’s operations.
(6 marks)
(b) List three ways in which this resistance may manifest itself.
(3 marks)
(c) How can this resistance be overcome? (6
marks)

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN ICT

1. Give a brief description of the following careers available in the

computing field.
i) Software engineers. (2 marks) ii) Database administrators.
(2 marks) iii) Data Processing Managers (DPM). (2 marks) iv)
Systems Analysts. (2marks)
v) Computer Programmer (2 marks) vi) Network Administrators.
(2 marks) vii) Computer Technicians. (2 marks) viii) Information
Systems Managers. (2 marks)
2. Outline the roles of a Network administrator.
(3 marks)
3. State the role of a computer Scientist.
(2marks)
4. Distinguish between:
(a) A software engineer and a computer engineer.
(2 marks)
(b) A system analyst and a programmer. (2
marks)
5. List three types of job opportunities that are available in the field of
computer hardware.
(3 marks)
6. Identify three courses you would enrol in at the Post graduate university
level. (2 marks)
7. (a) State three public universities where one can further her Computer
Studies. (3 marks)

(b) Identify at least three ICT related courses offered at

i) polytechnic
level ii) college
level iii) university
level
4. Explain three factors considered before joining an ICT course.
(2 marks)
5. Identify two external Examining bodies for Diploma and Higher Diploma in
Computer
courses. (2 marks)
8. List three duties of the following personnel:

(a). Database administrator. (2 marks)

(b). Data processing manager.
(2 marks)
(c). Computer programmer. (3 marks)
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 6. Name three responsibilities that are carried out by:
(a) Web administrator. (3
marks)
(b) Computer Trainer. (3
marks)
7. An employee in a business company is charged with the responsibility of
putting the company advertisements on the internet.
]
(i) State the professional title of the employee.
(1 mark)
(ii) Give an example of software used by this employee to carry out the
above task.
(1 mark)

ROADMAP TO K.C.S.E: FORM 2 COMPUTER STUDIES REVISION GUIDE (PAPER 1)

1. WORD PROCESSING

SUB- CONTENT
TOPICS
Definition • Define the terms (a) word processing (b) a word processor. List
of terms / 3 examples of word processors available in the market today.
Purposes List 5 editing and 5 formatting features of a word processor.
of word • Identify 6 advantages and 4 disadvantages of using word
processin processor to prepare documents over a manual typewriter.
g • Write down 6 uses of a word processor. State any 3 factors to
consider when choosing a word processor.
• List down the 2 types of typing modes in a word processor.
Running • Explain the uses of the following parts of Ms-Word application
a word window (a) title bar (b) menu bar (c) rulers (d) work area (e)
process scroll bars.
or / • Identify 2 uses of (i) horizontal ruler (ii) vertical ruler.
Creatin • What is toolbar? Describe how toolbars help users of the word
g a processor.
docume • State the function of status bar. List down 4 types of
nt information displayed in the status bar.
• Clearly explain the meaning of (i) creating a document (ii) word
wrap (iii) scrolling (iv) text deleting.
• Describe 2 procedures of creating a new document using Ms-
Word.
• State the difference between templates and wizards as used in
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 computers. Give 2 advantages of using a template to create a
document.
• Explain the functions of the following keys in word processing
(a) Enter key (b)
Backspace key (c) Delete key (d) Caps Lock key
(e) Shift key (f) Tab key (g) Insert key (h) End key (i) Ctrl +
Home (j) Page Down
• Differentiate between soft return and hard return of the cursor
in a document.
Saving • What is (a) saving a document (b) retrieving a document (c)
of closing a document. State 2 reasons for saving a document.
docume Differentiate between (a) Save and Save As commands (b)
nts / closing a document and exiting from an application.
Editing a • Give 3 reasons why one would retrieve a saved document.
docume • Describe how you would set up automatic saving after every
nt five minutes.
• Define the terms (a) editing a document (b)
selecting/highlighting of text (c) blocking of text (d) scrolling.
State 3 operations that may require blocking in Ms Word.
• Name the mouse shortcut for selecting the following (a) word
(b) line of text (c) graphic (d) large block of text (e) sentence (f)
multiple lines of text (g) paragraph (h) an entire document.
• State the difference between (a) type over and insert mode (b)
copying and moving text (c) Cut-and-Paste and Drag-and-drop
editing. Explain how a paragraph can be moved from one area
of a page to another.
• State the use of the find and replace command.
• What is a wildcard? How can wildcards be used to search for a
word that starts with the letter “O” in a document?
Proofreadi • Define proofreading. State 2 importance of proofreading a
ng a document. List down 4 facilities used to proofread a prepared
document document.
• What is Spelling and grammar checker? Give 2 importance of
using the spelling and grammar checker. Explain 2 types of
dictionaries used by the spell-checker program. Explain the use
of the following buttons in spell-checking (a) Change (b) Change
All (c) Ignore Once (d) Ignore All/Ignore Rule (e) Add to
Dictionary. Give 2 reasons why it is important to add extra
words to the dictionary when spell-checking.
• What is Thesaurus? State 2 uses of Thesaurus.
• Distinguish between the AutoComplete and AutoCorrect feature
in word processing.
• Explain the use of undo and redo commands.

Formattin • What is document formatting? Give any 6 text formatting

ga features. Describe the following terms (a) Boldface (b) Font
document type (c) Font size (d) Underlining (e) Italicizing (f) Changing font
colour. What unit is used to measure Font size?
• What is the difference between text editing and text formatting?

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 • Differentiate between (i) bolding and highlighting text (ii)
superscript and subscript.
• Explain you would (i) Bold, italicize and double underline a block
of text (ii) apply superscript or subscript to text.
• List 6 paragraph formatting activities in word processing.
• What is (a) Change case (b) Drop capping (c) Drop cap (d)
Bullet. State the meaning of
(i) Sentence case (ii) Lowercase
(iii) Uppercase (iv) Title case (v) Toggle case.
• State 2 functions of drop cap in a document. Highlight the steps
taken to drop a letter.
Differentiate between Dropped and In Margin as applied in drop
capping.
• State the importance of bullets and numbering in a document.
• Define alignment. Name and explain 4 text alignment features.
• Distinguish between line spacing and paragraph spacing.
Explain 5 types of line spacing.
• Outline how to create a page with two columns and a line
between them. Explain how you would break from one column
to another.
• Define Indentation. Explain 4 types of paragraph indents. State
the difference between first-line indentation and hanging
indentation.
• What is (a) a Tab (b) Tab stop (c) Tab spacing (d) Tab leader?
Give 3 reasons for setting tab stops. Draw and name
illustrations of any 3 types of tab stops that can be set in a
document.
• Distinguish between page margins and borders as used in word
processing. State 2 importance of applying borders to a given
text.
• Explain how you would accomplish the following tasks (a)
convert a paragraph to All uppercase (b) Insert bullets and
numbering to a given list of items (c) apply a drop cap to a
paragraph (d) apply a hanging indent to a paragraph (e) align
text to the right margin.
• State 6 page formatting features in word processing.
• Define (a) Break (b) a Section (c) a Section Break. Identify 5
formatting elements that can be set for sections. Explain 4
types of section breaks.
• What is a Page Break? Distinguish between (a) a soft page break
and a hard page break (b) an orphan and a window.
• Name 4 things that are carried out during page setup in Ms-
Word. Explain the difference between a header and a footer.
• State 2 importance of setting page margins. Explain the
following types of page margins (a) top margin (b) bottom
margin (c) left margin (d) right margin (e) gutter (f) mirror
margins (g) book fold.
• What is the difference between a page header and a page title?
How would you insert footer to your document?

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 • Give 2 reasons why you should specify the correct paper size
before printing a document.
• What is page orientation? Name and explain 2 methods of paper
orientation. Name the appropriate orientation for (a) a large
print name sign for a classroom (b) a price list in a shop.
• Explain the importance of page numbers in a document. How
can you insert page numbers in a multipage document when
working with Ms-Word?
Creating • Define a table as applied in Ms Word. Define the following terms
and while working with tables (i) Cell (ii) Row (iii) Column. Give 3
editing a importance of creating tables in word processing.
Table • Differentiate between (a) Drawing and inserting a table in a
document (b) Clearing a table and deleting a table (c) Splitting
of table cells and splitting a table.
• What would happen to the text cursor when the following
actions are done in a table (a) press the Tab key (b) press the
Enter key (c) press the Shift + Tab key.
• Define the term ‘merging of cells’ as used in tables. Give 2
reasons for merging cells in a table.
• Outline the steps to be followed in order to (i) merge cells in a
word processing table (ii) Insert a blank row in a table (iii) Delete
two rows from a table (iv) Add borders around a table.
• What is a function when working with calculations in word
processing? List 4 paste functions that can be used to perform
mathematical calculations in a word processing table.
• List 4 arithmetic operations that can be performed on a row of
numeric data in a word processing table. Write the expression
used in each case. Define the term ‘sorting text.’
Mailmergi • What is the meaning of mail merging? Give 2 advantages of
ng / using mail merge. State the difference between main document
Inserting and data source in mail merge.
graphics • Outline 3 basic steps required to mail merge a document. List 4
ways of merging a document with its data source. What 3 types
of documents are created by the user in mail merge?
• Define the term ‘graphic’. Give 3 types of graphics used in a
word processor. List any 3 sources of graphics in Ms-Word.
• What is ClipArt? Apart from ClipArt, name 2 other sources of
graphics.
• What is (i) AutoShape (ii) Textbox (iii) WordArt? Give 2
advantages of using a Text Box to write the text in an
advertisement.
• Explain the concept of importing objects into a word processor.
What is the difference between object linking and embedding?
• Explain how you would do the following tasks (i) Enter text into
an AutoShape (ii) Insert a Clip Art picture into a document (iii)
Fill a drawing object or an AutoShape with colour (iv) Change
the brightness of a graphic (v) Change the thickness of an
AutoShape outline (vi) increase the size of a Clip art.
Printing a • What is printing? Explain 4 reasons for previewing a document

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document before sending it to the printer.
• In word processing, what is a hard copy? Why do we need a
hard copy?
• Explain the difference between printing of multiple pages and
printing of multiple copies of a document.
• In printing, what is to collate a document? State 1 advantage
and 1 disadvantage of collating a document.
• Show how you can print a document with the following
conditions: (a) pages 2, 3, 6 to 10, 13 to 20, 23 and 28 (b) a
quick printout for temporary use.
• The printer is producing funny characters when you order Word
to print the worksheet.
What could be the most likely problem?
• Name 4 functions performed by a word processor.

2. SPREADSHEET

SUB- CONTENT
TOPICS

Definition • Define a spreadsheet. Distinguish between a manual

of a worksheet and electronic spreadsheet. State 5 advantages of
spreadshe electronic spreadsheets over manual worksheets. Give any 4
et / application programs classified as spreadsheets.
Compone • Name 3 components of a spreadsheet. Distinguish between (a)
nts of a workbook and worksheet (b) sorting and filtering.
spreadshe • Explain 5 application areas of spreadsheet software. What is
et / automatic recalculation?
Applicatio • Describe any 5 features (advantages) of electronic spreadsheet
n areas of software. State 5 features that make spreadsheet useful in
a calculating the wages of the employees in a company.
spreadshe
et
Creating a • Name the operating system environment in which Ms-Excel
workbook operates. Explain 3 methods used to start Ms-Excel.
• Explain the purpose of following Excel elements (a) Formula bar
(b) Name box (c) Active cell (d) Column identifiers (e) Row
identifiers (f) Gridlines (g) sheet tabs.
• Give 4 common File features between a word processor and the
spreadsheet.
• Explain the following worksheet terms (i) rows (ii) columns (iii)
cell (iv) range. List 4 types of information that can be entered
into a worksheet cell.

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Cell data • Explain 4 types of data in spreadsheet. Define (a) function (b)
types formula (c) value (d) label (e) range. State 4 actions that can be
performed on ranges in Ms-Excel.
• Describe 2 ways to complete an entry into a cell. Describe the
procedure to be followed when entering (a) a negative number
in a cell (b) a fraction in a cell.
• How does Ms-Excel determine that an entry is a text or a
formula? Any entry that is not a number or a formula in a
spreadsheet is treated as a label. State any 2 rules that a label
must conform to. Explain how you would write the number
0005 as a label.
• Format the number 34567.123 in three distinctive ways that
convey different meanings.
Write the date 11th May 2009 in any 3 formats in a cell.
• Briefly explain the concept of AutoFill.
• State one way a user may reverse the last action taken in a
spreadsheet package.
• State the effect of pressing the following key combinations on
the cell pointer (i) Right Arrow key (ii) SHIFT+TAB (iii)
CTRL+HOME.
Cell • What is a cell reference? Explain 4 types of referencing methods
referencin used in spreadsheets.
g • What is a name reference? How can you accomplish this in Ms-
Excel?
• Differentiate between (a) single and multiple cell referencing (b)
relative and absolute cell referencing.
• Write the equivalent R1C1 reference for G20. Write the
formulae =F10 + G20 as absolute. For each of the following,
state the type of cell reference (i) A5 (ii) $F$5 (iii) H$21 (iv)
$D7.
• The formula =B5+C4 was entered in cell F5. What will it
become when it is copied to cell H8? Explain the reason for your
answer.
• The formula = $C2 + C$3 is entered in cell C5. Write down the
formula as it appears when is copied to D10.
• The formula = K20 + P$18 was typed in cells L2. Write the
formula as it will appear when copied to cell M24.
Basic • Define the terms (a) operator (b) operand (c) operation.
functions • What is a function? List 4 mathematical functions provided by
and Ms-Excel. State the role of the following spreadsheet functions
formulae / (a) Sum (b) Product (c) SQRT (d) Round (e) Today ( ) (f) Average
Editing of (h) Max (i) Count (j) IF (j) SumIf (k) CountIf.
workshee • Compute (i) 37 DIV 5 (ii) 37 MOD 5. Calculate the output from
t the following, given that X = 4 and Y =2 (i) X DIV Y (ii) X MOD Y.
• Write down a function to calculate the mean of a range of
values in cells B1 to B10.
• Write down the formula that would be entered at cell B7 to sum
the values in column A1 to A3 whose values are greater or
equal to 15.

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 • Explain the meaning of the following errors as displayed in
worksheet cells (a)
#VALUE! (b) #NAME? (c) #N/A (d) #NUM! (e) #REF! (f) #DIV/0!
Show how we can solve them.
• Describe 2 methods of copying a formula.
• Explain step-by-step how you would (a) select a range of cells
(b) select noncontiguous cells or cell ranges (c) edit cell
contents.
• Differentiate between (a) copying and moving data in a
worksheet (b) clearing cells and deleting cells. Describe 2 ways
of erasing the contents of a cell in a worksheet.
Worksheet • What is worksheet formatting? State 2 importance of worksheet
formatting formatting. List 4 formatting features provided by Ms-Excel.
• Explain 2 ways of changing the font size in Ms-Excel.
• State 2 conditions under which a worksheet cell would display #
# # # # #. How can this problem be rectified?
• Explain step-by-step how you would (a) adjust a column width
to accommodate the longest cell entry in a range of cells (b)
insert rows in a worksheet (c) make text in a worksheet cell
bold, italic and double-underlined.
• Identify 2 reasons for hiding columns in a worksheet.
• What are worksheet borders? State 3 importance of adding
borders in worksheet cells. Explain how to add borders in
worksheet cells.
• What is the AutoFormat feature? Give 3 number formats in Ms-
Excel. The number 435273.7865 is entered into a cell. How will
the number look like if the cell is formatted as commas and 2
decimal places?
Data • Explain 4 data management functions of a spreadsheet. What
managem is meant by the following terms (a) sorting (b) filtering data?
ent Identify 2 importances of data sorting.
/ Creating • Briefly describe the importance of “What-if analysis” in
of spreadsheets.
Charts • What is a chart? State the major function of charts in
and spreadsheets. List any 4 types of charts in Excel and give the
Graphs purpose of each.
• What is a chart wizard in spreadsheets? Outline the steps
required when creating a simple chart.
• Explain the following terms as used in charts (a) data series (b)
data ranges (c) data labels (d) axis (e) legend.
• Distinguish the purpose of (i) a title and legend (ii) chart title
and axis title.
• Differentiate between an embedded chart and a chart sheet.
Explain how you can change the chart type in Excel.
Printing / • State 3 importance of setting the page setup.
Managing • State the difference between printing a range and printing a
worksheet whole workbook.
s • What is orientation? Differentiate between landscape and
portrait orientation. Explain how you would (a) print a
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 worksheet in landscape orientation (b) print a portion of an
Excel worksheet.
• State the importance of printing gridlines around worksheet
cells.
• By default, how many worksheets are there in a workbook?
Explain how you would do the following operations on a
worksheet in Ms-Excel (a) insert a single new worksheet (b)
move from one worksheet to another (c) rename a worksheet
(d) delete a worksheet

3. DATABASES

SUB- CONTENT
TOPICS
Definition • Define a database. Explain 5 importance of using DBMS in
of organizations.
Database • Briefly describe the traditional file management system. State 4
/ limitations of using the traditional method of data management.
Database • What are database management system software? What is the
Concepts difference between PCbased databases and corporate
/ databases? List 4 commercial database programs that may be
Data installed in a computer.
Organizati • Identify 6 functions of a DBMS. State 4 advantages and 2
disadvantages of using an electronic database system.
on
• Briefly explain database maintenance. List 3 tasks involved in
the maintenance, and briefly explain how each is done.
• What is a database model? Explain following types of database
models (i) flat file database (ii) relational model (iii) hierarchical
model (iv) network model (v) objectoriented model. Distinguish
between flat file and relational databases. Identify 3 advantages
of the relational database system. What are the disadvantages
of using (a) hierarchical database systems (b) network database
systems?
• Distinguish between (a) entity and attribute (b) primary key and
foreign key. State 2 properties of a primary key. State 2
importance of a primary key in a database.
• What is a relationship in a database? Using diagrams, describe
the following types of relationships applied (i) one-to-one (ii)
one-to-many (or, many-to-one) (iii) many-tomany.
• Explain how ‘parent’ and ‘child’ tables are related in relational
database.
• What is the usefulness of data integrity? What is referential
integrity as used in database? Explain what happens when
invalid data is entered into a related table for which referential
integrity has been reinforced.
• Outline 5 features of an electronic database management
system.
• Arrange the following components of the database hierarchy in
[Link]
 ascending order of complexity: Field, Database, Record,
Character and File. Explain each of the components.
Creating • State the use of the following database objects (a) Tables (b)
and Queries (c) Forms (d) Reports (d) Modules.
editing a • State the procedures followed when designing a database. List 4
database factors to consider when designing database files.
• Define the following terms as used in database design (a)
redundancy (b) normalization. State 3 objectives of
normalization.
• Distinguish between (a) primary key and index (b) input mask
and design (c) record and field (d) field name and caption.
• When do you use the following field data types? (a) Text (b)
Memo (c) Date/Time (d) Number (e) Currency.
• What are field properties? Name and explain 4 field properties
used in table design in Ms-Access.
• A teacher keeps the following student details in a database:
Name, Adm No, Gender, Date of birth, Address, Town, Marks
scored, Fees paid, Pictured (scanned); (i) Indicate the
appropriate data type for the fields (ii) name the most
appropriate primary key. Give a reason.
• Define the terms (a) sorting of records (b) filtering of records (c)
freezing of columns.
Form • Define a form. Describe any 4 reasons for using forms.
Design • What are controls? Explain the following types of controls used
in forms (i) Label (ii)
Textbox (iii) Command button (iv) List box
(v) Check box/Option button or Toggle button.
• Explain when the following controls are used (a) Bound (b)
Unbound (c) Calculated. Distinguish between bound and
unbound controls.
• Explain the following form layouts (a) columnar form (b) tabular
(c) datasheet (d) justified.
• Give the difference between the following in form layout (i) Form
Header and Page Header (ii) Form Footer and Page Footer.
• Explain how you would move from one record to another in a
form.
• Explain 3 advantages of using input screens compared to
entering data directly to a table.
Queries • What is a query? Outline 3 uses of a query in database design.
• Differentiate between (a) a table and a query (b) an action query
and select query. Explain 4 types of action queries.
• Explain the following parts of the query design grid (i) Field row
(ii) Show row (iii) Sort row (iv) Criteria row.
• Explain how you would (a) sort data in a query (b) Create a
select query that can calculate total score and average in ten
subjects.
• Giving examples, describe the use of the following logical
operators in queries (i) AND (ii) OR (iii) Between (iv) Wildcards
(v) Not.

[Link]
 • Write down the criteria you would use to display employees’
details from a payroll database who earn between 80000 and
200000.
• The following car details are to be entered in a database: Make,
Date-of-manufacture, colour, and cost; (a) prepare a suitable
database structure showing field names and their field data
types (b) write a statement that can be used to select cars of
colour green (c) give an instruction that would (i) select cars
whose cost is between 500000 and 1000000 (ii) determine the
average cost of all cars.
Reports • What is a report? State 2 importance of a report generated from
layout / a database.
Automatin • What is a report wizard? Explain how you would create a report
g the that displays subtotals and grand totals.
database • Explain the following parts of a report layout (i) Report Header
/ (ii) Page Header (iii) Detail (iv) Page Footer (v) Report Header.
Database • Describe the following tools used to automate a database in Ms-
security Access (a) Switchboard (b) Macros. Give 4 advantages of using
macros.
• List any 4 methods used to secure data in a database.

4. DESKTOP PUBLISHING

SUB- CONTENT
TOPICS
Definition • What do you understand by the following terms (a) Publishing
s/ (b) Desktop publishing?
Purpose • Mention the 3 main purposes of DTP software.
of DTP / • What is (a) layering (b) artwork? Why is layering very useful in a
Types of desktop publisher?
DTP • What is Desktop Publishing software? State and briefly explain
software the 2 main types of DTP software, and give 3 examples of each
type.
• State 4 application areas of DTP software.
• What is a publication? Name any 6 types of printed publications
that can be created with DTP software.
• What information do you normally find on a business card?
What is the main difference between a newspaper and a
newsletter?
• Explain 6 features of DTP software. Give 2 reasons why DTP
software is preferred in designing documents than a word
processor.

[Link]
Designin • List any 4 application window layout components found in a
g a typical desktop publisher.
publicati • Differentiate between (a) pasteboard and printable page (b) an
on / inside margin and an outside margin.
Editing a • Explain the functions of the following tools as used in DTP (a)
Publicatio Text tool (b) Pointer tool (c) Cropping tool (d) Rectangle tool (e)
n Rotate tool (f) Zoom tool.
• What is a text frame? State the purpose of frames. Explain how
you would create text using (a) Text tool (b) Text frame.
• Explain what is meant by a master page? Why are master pages
important in a publication?
• What commands are used in place of portrait and landscape
page orientation in PageMaker?
• Define the terms (a) editing a publication (b) story.
• Explain 2 editing tools in DTP. State the purpose of the following
spell-check options (i) Change To (ii) Ignore (iii) Replace (iv) Add.
Formattin • Define formatting of a publication.
ga • What is a control palette? How would you use a control palette
Publicatio to format (a) Characters in a text (b) Paragraphs.
n • Explain how you would change the boldface and the font size of
selected text at once. What is a leading?
• Distinguish between (a) tracking and kerning (b) superscript and
subscript (c) change case and drop cap (d) fill and stroke.
• State 3 ways of moving round the page in a DTP window.
• What are non-printing guides? List down 3 nonprinting guides
used in a desktop publisher. Distinguish between margin guides
and column guides.
• Why do we need ruler guides when creating a publication? How
do you (a) place a ruler guide in the pasteboard (b) hide a ruler
guide from the pasteboard?
• What does the term gutter mean in relation to column setting?
Working • Give 3 methods that are used to transform an object.
with Distinguish between fill and stroke.
Graphical • What is text wrap? Explain the concept of wrapping text around
objects / objects. Give 3 ways you can wrap text on an object.
Working • Explain the following graphic terms (a) crop (b) rotate (c) object
with grouping (d) locking an object. Give a real life example of using
Tables / cropping. In what way is cropping different from resizing?
Printing Explain why you would need to lock margins or objects in a
publication.
• What is the use of Tables in a publication? Explain how you can
create a Table with 5 rows and 3 columns.
• How would you ensure that all text typed in a cell remains
visible? What option is used to make row 1 of a Table into single
cell?

5. INTERNET AND E-MAIL

SUB- CONTENT
[Link]
TOPICS
Definition • What is (a) networking (b) a network (c) a computer network.
of State 3 examples of communication networks. Briefly explain 3
Internet / basic types of computer networks.
Developm • Precisely define what an internet is. Why is the internet
ent referred to as an information superhighway?
of Internet • Differentiate between internet and intranet.
• Discuss the growth of Internet in recent days. What was the
original intention of creating the Internet? Who runs the
Internet? Describe the first Internet network in terms of its
name, the sites connected and link speeds. Describe 3
functions of the Internet.

Internet • Name 5 facilities that are needed to connect to the Internet.

connectivi Explain the meaning of (a) internet service provider (b) modem.
ty State why a modem is required when connecting to the
internet.
• What are protocols? Distinguish between transmission control
protocol and internet protocol.
• What 2 devices are used to connect your computer to the ISP?
Name 3 services offered by an ISP. State 6 considerations when
choosing an ISP. Give 5 companies providing ISP services in
Kenya.
• Briefly explain the following types of Internet connection (a)
Dial-up connection (b) Direct connection. What unit is used to
measure connectivity speed on the Internet?
• State the professional title of the employee whose
responsibility is to put company advertisements on the
internet. Give 2 examples of software used by this employee to
carry out the above task.
• What do the following abbreviations stand for (i) ISDN (ii) ISP
(iii) DARPA (iv) DCA (v) ARPA (vi) ARPANET (vii) TCP/IP (viii)
HTTP (ix) FTP (x) WWW.
Internet • State and explain any 6 uses of the Internet.
services • Describe 3 communication services provided by the Internet.
Mention 2 education services that benefit from using the
Internet, and state how they benefit.
• What is meant by e-learning? List 3 problems that a school is
likely to encounter as it attempts to set-up an e-learning
system. Identify 3 advantages of e-learning.
• Outline 3 ways in which the Internet can help you find a
suitable job.
• State 3 services that can be provided by the Internet through
the mobile telephone.
• State one advantage of being able to use Internet and cell
phone to (a) access your bank account (b) send out Short
Message Service (SMS).

[Link]
Internet • Differentiate between internet and World Wide Web. Explain
terminolog the concept of the Web page. Describe the term ‘home page’
ies as applied in the internet.
• Define the following web related terms (a) e-commerce (b) sign
in/log on (c) browse/surfing the web (d) hypertext document (e)
inbox (f) downloading.
• Differentiate between a host computer and a web server.
• What is a website? Give 2 advantages and 2 disadvantages of a
website.
• What is web browser? Name 2 examples of software used in
Internet browsing.
• Write the following abbreviations in full (a) HTML (b) URL (c)
WAP.
Accessing • State the necessary steps required to connect the computers to
Internet the internet.
• State the use of the following details when logging on to the
Internet (a) User ID (b) password.
• Name 2 important displays on the Status bar of a browser.
• Identify 3 ways you can use to navigate through the internet.
• What is a search engine? Name 4 examples of search engines.
• Distinguish between HTML and a hyperlink. List 2 advantages
of using hyperlinks when browsing the internet.
• Explain the ‘History’ feature with reference to a web browser.
• List down 3 benefits of saving information from the Internet to
your hard disk.
• What is file download? Explain the procedure of downloading a
file from the Internet. Name 3 precautions to take when
downloading software from the Internet.
• Briefly describe 4 advantages of using Internet to disseminate
information. Describe briefly 4 problems of using of the
Internet.
Electronic • What is e-mail? State the use of e-mail software. Name 3
Mail commonly used e-mail software. Write down 6 features of
electronic mail.
(EMail) /
• Name 3 types of files that you can send via e-mail.
Use of
• Name and explain the underlined parts of the e-mail address
Internet to
given:
access
ggitau@[Link]
informatio
• State the purpose of the Uniform Resource Locator (URL) in the
n on Internet. Explain the following internet address
emerging [Link] in reference to the structure of a URL.
issues Identify institutions whose e-mail addresses end with the
following extensions (i) .org (ii) .gov (iii) .edu (iv) .com (v) .net
(vi) .mil
• Give 5 differences between e-mail and the Post office mail.
Explain 5 advantages and 3 disadvantages of using e-mail over
the use of the postal address system. List 4 facilities/services
of an e-mail.

[Link]
 • Give 2 reasons why one would create and send an e-mail
message. Explain why it is good practice to compose mail
offline. Explain how one can check a mail from the internet.
• Where does the e-mail program place messages that have been
(a) Composed but not sent (b) Received (c) Deleted (d) Sent.
• Name 3 actions you may want to take after receiving a
message. Give one reason for deleting files from the mailbox.
• State one advantage of using the Address Book when working
with e-mails.
• What is file attachment in relation to e-mail? Explain how you
can attach a file to an email document.
• What is a spam mail? State 3 undesirable effects caused by
spam mail.
• State 4 advantages and 3 disadvantages of using the Internet
to search for information.
• Briefly describe 4 factors hindering Internet growth and access
in Kenya.

6. DATA SECURITY AND CONTROL

SUB- CONTENT
TOPICS
Definition • Define the terms (i) data security (ii) information privacy (iii)
of terms / data control.
Security Differentiate between personal data and confidential data.
threats • Give the 3 types of data that should be protected in a computer.
and • Why is information called a resource? How do computers
control reduce a person’s privacy?
measures • Name 3 examples of personal information that can be
legitimately gathered about a person by an insurance company.
• State 2 rights of a person about whom data is kept.
• Write down any 4 threats to data and information.
• Define a computer virus. Explain 5 types of computer viruses.
Suggest 2 reasons why people may write virus programs. List 5
types of risks that computer viruses pose. Describe 6 ways in
which viruses may enter a computer system. Outline 8
symptoms of virus infection in the computer. List down 5 ways
through which computer viruses may be controlled. Explain
how each of the 5 ways stated assist in controlling viruses. List
4 functions of antivirus software.

[Link]
 • Outline 6 forms of unauthorized access. Give 6 control
measures taken to avoid unauthorized access to data and
information.
• Explain the meaning of (i) electronic eavesdropping (ii)
surveillance (iii) industrial espionage.
• What is a computer error? Name 2 types of accidental computer
errors by users that may affect computer results. Name 4 ways
of controlling the threat of user’s errors to data and information.
• What is a program bug?
• Identify 4 control measures against theft of information,
hardware or software.
• What is data backup? Using an example, state why it is
important to store backups separately from the original data.
Computer • Define the term computer crime. State 10 different types of
Crimes computer crimes.
• Define the following types of computer crimes (i) Trespass (ii)
Tracking (iii) Tapping (iv) Cracking (v) Fraud (vi) Sabotage (vii)
Time bomb (viii) Trap door (ix) Logic bomb.
• Define (a) computer hacking (b) computer hacker. Identify 6
motives for hacking.
Briefly describe 4 ways in which computer systems can be
protected against hacking.
• What is a program patch? Why are patches important?
• What is piracy? State 4 ways in which piracy can be minimized.
Name 2 sources of unlicensed software.
• Give 2 reasons that may lead to computer fraud. Identify 4
security measures put in place to prevent fraud.
• Briefly describe phantom withdrawals in regard to electronic
fraud. State 2 ways in which the risk of phantom withdrawals
can be reduced.
• What is data alteration? Give 3 ways in which alteration of data
may take place. Explain 2 effects of alteration on data. Outline
2 security measures to prevent alteration.
• Define data stealing.
Detection • Describe 4 ways of protecting information systems against
and computer crime.
protectio • Describe the following terms with reference to security of data
n against (i) physical security (ii) log files.
computer • Give 4 physical precautions that can be taken to secure data.
crimes / State 2 disadvantages of using passwords.
Laws • State a precaution you need to take in order to avoid each of
governing the following when dealing with computer passwords (i)
protectio forgetting the password (ii) hacking.
n of • What is an audit trail? Identify 4 benefits of using audit trails.
informati
How can an audit trail be used to (a) recover from unauthorized
on
systems / changes in data after a breach of the system (b) detect a
Computer trespass.
security • Define (i) data encryption (ii) encryption key (iii) decryption.
State 2 ways in which data encryption help to promote data
[Link]
 privacy.
• What is a computer firewall? Explain the 2 types of computer
firewall. Write down 2 functions of a firewall that help to protect
the computer system. Who normally configures and controls
the firewall in a large organization?
• State 4 reasons why it is difficult to detect and prevent
computer crimes.
• Give 5 provisions provided by the laws governing protection of
data and information.
• What is computer security? Mention 5 threats to computer
security.
• Discuss 8 environmental problems affecting the operation of
computers.
•

ROADMAP TO K.C.S.E: FORM 4 COMPUTER STUDIES REVISION GUIDE (PAPER 1)

7. NETWORKING AND DATA COMMUNICATION

SUB- CONTENT
TOPICS
Definition of • Define the following terms (a) computer networking (b)
terms / Data computer network (d) server (c) client (workstation).
communicat • List 4 network systems that are not computer-based.
ion • State the purpose of (i) file server software (ii) communication
software.
• Define data communication. Explain 3 modes of data
[Link]
 communication, and give examples. Distinguish
asynchronous and synchronous data transmission. Give 5
factors considered when selecting data transmission system.

• Define data signal. Using suitable diagrams, explain digital and

analogue signals.
• Explain the following terms (a) signal modulation (b) signal
demodulation (c) multiplexing (d) demultiplexing (e) frequency
(f) baud
(g) baud rate (h) band (i) bandwidth (j) guard band (k)
baseband signal (l) broadband transmission.
• What is attenuation? How can attenuation be rectified?

• What is the relationship between bit rate and bandwidth?

• What is the work of a multiplexer in networking?
• Differentiate between (a) modem and a multiplexer (b) a
baseband and broadband signal (c) a network server and a
workstation
(d) remote client and remote host (e) simplex and duplex data
transmission.
• Write in full the following acronyms as relates to multiplexing:
(a) FDM (b) TDM (c)
STDM.
• A student typed an e-mail to send over the internet through a
modem working at a speed of 100 Mbps. Calculate the
maximum number of characters that can be sent per second if
each character consists of 8 bits.
Types of • Examine 5 major characteristics of each of the following types
computer of networks (i) local area network (LAN) (ii) metropolitan area
networks / network (MAN) (iii) wide area network (WAN). Give 3
Purpose and advantages and 3 disadvantages of each type of network.
limitations • List 6 differences between LAN and WAN.
of • State any 4 hardware requirements you will require to setup a
networking local area network (LAN).
• Briefly explain 4 benefits of using LAN at an institution such as
a college.
• Highlight 6 advantages and 6 disadvantages of networking
computers.
• Explain how information can be exchanged between
standalone computers.
• What is a resource? Give 5 examples of network resources.
• Briefly explain (a) remote communication (b) distributed
processing. State 4 advantages and 4 disadvantages of
distributed processing.
Transmissio • State and briefly describe 3 network elements in a LAN giving
n media an example in each.
(data • Define data transmission media. Distinguish between
communicat bounded and unbounded transmission media, and give 2

[Link]
ion media) examples in each.
• Mention 4 types of bounded transmission media.
• Discuss two-wire open line cables.
• Discuss twisted pair cables. Differentiate between unshielded
twisted pair (UTP) and shielded twisted pair (STP) cables.
Define the term ‘pitch’ as used in twisted pair cabling. State 3
advantages and 3 disadvantages of twisted pair cables.
• Name and explain the parts of a coaxial cable. Explain the
importance of the wire braid in coaxial cable. Give 2
differences between thinnet and thicknet coaxial cables. State
3 advantages and 3 disadvantages of coaxial cables.
• State the function of the following optic fibre cable layers (a)
core (b) cladding (b) buffer (d) jacket.
• Name the 2 types of fibre-optic cables, and give 3 differences.
State 3 characteristics of fibre optic cable. State 4 advantages
and 4 disadvantages of fibre-optic cables.
• List 3 advantages and 3 disadvantages of wired
communication over wireless communication.
• Define the term noise. State the type of data communication
media that could be used in an electronically noisy
environment. Explain your answer.
• Describe an electromagnetic spectrum.
• Discuss microwave transmission. Differentiate between point-
to-point and point-tomultipoint transmission.
• What is a satellite? Explain the 4 main components in a
satellite transmission system. With the aid of a well-labeled
diagram, describe the satellite communication technology.
Explain the concept of a geostationary satellite. Write down 3
advantages and 3 disadvantages of satellite technology.
• Describe the VSAT technology.
• Describe radio communication. Identify the main differences
between HF, VHF and UHF radio waves.
• Distinguish between radio and microwave transmission.
• Explain the concept of Bluetooth technology.
• Discuss infrared transmission. Identify 2 application areas of
infrared transmission.
• Explain the line of sight principle in wireless communication.
State 4 advantages and 2 disadvantages of wireless
communication.
Data • Define data terminal equipment (DTE). List 4 examples of
communicat terminal devices.
ion devices Distinguish between intelligent and dump terminals.
(DCD) • State 3 importances of front-end processors (FEP) in a
network.
• Mention 8 examples of data communication devices (DCD).
• State the function of (a) network interface card (NIC) (b)
modem (c) codec (d) bridge (e) router (f) gateway (g) repeater.
• Differentiate between (i) a router and a gateway (ii) a router
and a brouter.
[Link]
 • Distinguish between a hub and a switch. State the advantage
of a switch over a hub.
Network • List 2 types of network software.
software • Outline 5 functions of network operating systems. Give 4
examples of network software.
• Outline the seven layers of the OSI reference model in order
stating their functions.
• Define the term internet protocol. List 4 common examples of
protocols used in networking and their purpose.
• Write the following in full (a) TCP (b) HTTP (c) IP (d) DTE (e)
DCE (f) DCD (g) FEP
Network • Define network topology. Distinguish between (a) logical and
topologies physical network topology (b) Ethernet and token ring
topology.
• Using well-labeled diagrams, describe (i) star topology (ii) bus
topology (iii) ring topology (iv) mesh topology (v) hierarchical
(tree) topology. State 4 advantages and 4 disadvantages of
each topology.
• Suggest with reasons the most appropriate topology required
to inter-connect ten stand-alone computers in an institution.
• Briefly explain point-to-point and broadcast transmission.

8. APPLICATION AREAS OF ICT

SUB- CONTENT
TOPICS

Financial a. Define an information system.

systems b. State 3 areas where computers are used in financial systems.
c. Identify 2 uses of computers in accounting systems. List 4
benefits of using computers in accounting systems. List down
any 4 modules within an accounting package, and state the
purpose of each.
d. Briefly explain how a computerized payroll system works.
Name the type of processing that would be required by a
payroll system.
e. List down 10 different ways in which ICT is used in banks.
f. Explain how an ATM card works. Write down 3 input devices
and 4 output devices of an ATM machine. State 5 advantages
and 5 disadvantages of using ATM cards. List any 4 types of

[Link]
 electronic cards other than ATM card. List 5 ways of taking
care of ATM cards.
g. Give 3 reasons why human resource is still necessary in the
banks despite the introduction of the ATM card.
h. Give 5 advantages of using computers in banking.
Retail i. List 4 functions of a stock control system. Identify 3
systems / advantages of computerized stock control systems.
Library Name 3 organizations or businesses that would benefit
systems from computerized stock control systems.
j. List down 5 different ways in which ICT is used in
supermarkets. Differentiate between an EPOS terminal
and a cash register. State 4 components of a point-of-
sale terminal. Give 3 advantages of using EPOS terminals
at a supermarket checkout counter.
k. Give 2 ways the information on a barcode can be input at
the checkout.
l. Write the following abbreviations in full: (a) EFT (b) ATM
(c) PIN (d) MICR (e) EPOS (f) EFTPOS.
m. List down 5 different ways in which ICT is used in
commercial libraries.
n. Explain how computers are used to do the following in a
library (a) lending (b) inventory control (c) cataloguing.
o. Identify 5 benefits of using a computer in s school library.
Reservation p. State 4 application areas where computers can be used for
system / reservation. Name 2 types of processing required by a
Educational reservation system.
systems q. Describe how computers are used in educational systems to
do the following (i) computer-aided learning (CAL) (ii)
computer-aided instruction (CAI) (iii) e-learning (iv) computer-
based simulation.
r. Differentiate between computer-aided learning and computer-
aided instruction.
s. Describe how computer-aided instruction can be used to
teach small children. List down 3 advantages of e-learning.
Industrial t. Define computer modeling. State 2 dangers of projecting
systems using computer models.
u. What is simulation? Name any 8 application areas of
computer simulation. List down 5 advantages of computer-
based simulation.
v. Define process control. Describe how a computerized process
control system works. Name 4 different industries or
organizations where computerized process control systems
can be found. Give 2 benefits of using computerized process
control systems.
[Link] does the abbreviation CAD/CAM stand for? What is
meant by CAM? Give 2 examples of CAD software.
x. Define the term CAD. List 3 application areas of CAD/CAM
systems. List 3 advantages of using Computer Aided Design.
y. What is a robot? Mention 5 areas where robots are used.
Mention 3 types of robots.

[Link]
 List 5 reasons why an industry may opt to use robots.
z. What are intelligent (adaptive) robots, and where are they
used?
Scientific aa. Explain 2 ways in computers are used in weather
and forecasting. What type of computers are suited for
Research weather forecasting, and why?
systems bb. Explain 8 ways in computers are used in the medical
field.
cc. State 2 ways on how ICT can be used to reduce the
spread of HIV/AIDS. dd. In what ways have
computers contributed to the growth in military science?
ee. Explain 4 ways in which computers have enhanced
space exploration. Give 4 ways in which astronauts in
space and the mission control unit use to communicate.
Expert ff. Write in full, hence explain the term ICT. gg. Give 4
systems ways in which computers are used in radio broadcasting
/ stations.
Communicat hh. Mention 2 types of data transmitted via televisions. State
ion systems 2 main differences between a teletext and a videotext (view
data). Identify 4 services provided by teletext and a
videotext system.
ii. Describe the following network services (i) video messaging
(voice mail) (ii) video conferencing. List down 3 hardware and
software required to conduct a video conference. Identify 2
ways in which video conferencing communication can be
used. Give one benefit to a company that uses video
conferencing.
jj. What is meant by teleworking (telecommuting)? State 5
advantages and 5 disadvantages of working from home. kk.
Define the internet. Give 4 different types of
information available on the Internet. Discuss 2 services
available on the internet. Distinguish between internet and
World Wide Web (www). ll. What is e-mail? List 5 advantages
of e-mail over conventional mail. mm. State 2 ways that a
report could be sent to an office using the Internet. nn.
List 4 advantages and 4 limitations of cell phones over
fixed lines.
Law oo. List 3 ways in which computer technology can be
enforcement used in law enforcement. Define the term Biometric
/ analysis.
Entertainme pp. How have computers been used by the music and
nt movie industry? qq. List down 3 ways in which
systems / computers are used in homes.
Home use / rr. Give 2 computer applications in automatic traffic control.
Transportati What type of computer software is used in the automobile
on systems industry? State 2 advantages of automatic traffic control.
ss. Briefly describe how computers are used in air traffic
control. State 3 advantages of automatic air traffic control.
tt. Give any 4 uses of computers in the shipping industry.
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Marketing uu. Define the term e-commerce. List down 4 benefits and
systems / 3 disadvantages of ecommerce. vv. Explain 5 ways in
Virtual which ICT can enhance commerce.
(artificial) ww. Explain the meaning of the term ‘virtual reality.’
reality List 3 interactive sensory devices used in virtual
reality, and state their uses.
xx. List 3 application areas where virtual reality is
used. yy. Differentiate between simulation and
virtual reality.

9. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN THE FIELD OF ICT

SUB- CONTENT
TOPICS
Descriptio • Who is a Systems analyst? State 5 responsibilities of a systems
n of analyst. Outline 6 qualities of a good systems analyst.
career • Who is a Data processing manager? State 6 duties of a DPM.
opportunit • Who is an Information system manger? State 4 responsibilities
ies in the of an information systems manager.
field of • Who is a Computer programmer? Outline 6 duties of a
ICT programmer. Identify 4 qualities of a good programmer.
• What is the role of the Chief programmer/programming
manger? Outline 5 duties of a programmer.
• Who is a Database administrator (DBA)? Outline 6 duties of a
DBA.
• What is the role of a Computer operator? List down 6 duties of
a computer operator.
• Who is a computer hardware engineer? Outline 4 duties of a
hardware engineer.
• Who is a computer technician? Outline 4 duties of a computer
technician.
• Who is a software engineer? Outline 4 duties of a software
engineer.
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 • Differentiate between a software engineer and a computer
engineer.
• What is the role of a Network administrator? List down 4 duties
of a network administrator.
• What is the role of a Web administrator? Outline 4 duties of a
web administrator.
• What is the role of a Web designer? Identify 4 examples of
software used to develop websites.
• Who is an ICT trainer? Outline 4 duties of an ICT trainer.
• What is the role of a Librarian? Outline 4 duties of a librarian.
• Identify 4 qualities of a good computer sales representative.
• List 4 types of job opportunities that are available in the field of
computer hardware.
• State 4 career opportunities associated with databases.
Education • Show the difference between public and private universities.
al Give 5 examples of public universities that offer computer-
opportunit related courses in Kenya.
ies in ICT • Explain the term accreditation as used in education. State 5
examples of accredited private universities that offer computer-
related courses in Kenya
• Identify 8 ICT related degree programmes offered at the
university level. State 5 ICT related masters or PhD
programmes offered at the university level.
• Give 4 examples of polytechnics offer ICT-related courses in
Kenya. Identify 6 different awards attainable in polytechnics
that offer ICT courses.
• State 6 examples of colleges that offer computer science as a
subject.
• Outline 4 ICT courses offered at college level.
• List 5 examinations bodies for higher diploma, diploma and
certificates in computer courses.
• State 4 factors to consider before joining a college to pursue an
ICT course.

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10. IMPACT OF ICT ON SOCIETY

SUB- CONTENT
TOPICS
Effects • Explain 3 ways in which computer technology may affect
resulting employment patterns in organizations. State 2 reasons why the
from the employment patterns are affected.
use of ICT • Distinguish between job replacement and job displacement.
in our • What is automated production? State 4 areas where automation
society can be applied. List 4 advantages and 4 disadvantages of
automated production.
• Discuss 6 negative effects of computers on human health, and
state the methods of reducing such effects.
• Define ergonomics.
• Explain 3 effects of ICT on environment.
• State the bad effect that wrong disposal of nickel-cadmium
batteries can have on the environment.
• Explain the role of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• Identify 2 ways in which ICT has affected our moral and cultural
values.
• Define the term flaming.
• Discuss how the use of ICT has led to increase in computer
crimes and abuse.
Future • Explain the technological evolution of computer hardware and
trends in software.
ICT • Explain the concept of Information superhighway.
• Define the term artificial intelligence (AI). List 4 main
application areas of artificial intelligence.
• Define an expert system. List 4 importance of expert systems.
Explain the 4 components of an expert system. Give 4
examples of expert systems. Identify 4 areas where expert
systems may be applied.
• What is natural language processing? Give a reason why the
success of natural language processing is important.
• What are artificial neural networks? List down 2 features of an
artificial neural network.
• Define the term robotics. Explain 5 features of an intelligent
robot.
• Explain (a) voice recognition (b) voice synthesis (c) computer
vision.
• Suggest how computers may in future be made more user-
friendly for persons that are (i) blind (ii) without hands.
• Give 4 reasons why a firm may decide to computerize its
operations.
• Explain the impact of information technology on organizations in
each of the following areas (a) competition (b) pace of growth
(c) job opportunities (d) job skills (e) communication.
• Explain 4 reasons why users may resist the introduction of
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 computers to their place of work. List 3 ways in which this
resistance may manifest itself. Suggest 3 strategies that can be
employed to manage resistance to change.

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