ASSSESSOR'S GUIDE

Digital Literacy – Level 6

Summative Assessment – 100 Marks

Document Purpose
This assessor's guide contains:
- Full marking guidance for Section A (Compulsory short answers)
- Expanded point-form model answers for Section B (Structured questions)
- Clear mark distribution rules and instructions to assessors
- Moderation and record-keeping notes

Instructions to Assessor (General)

1. Mark according to the model answers and the marking rules in this document.
2. Be flexible: accept equivalent correct answers even if wording differs.
3. Award marks only within the stated totals: Section A = 40, Section B = 60, Overall = 100.
4. For Section A, use the short-answer marking guidance provided under each question.
5. For Section B, use the expanded point lists; award 1 mark per correct point up to 5 marks
per sub-question.
6. If a candidate gives more than the required points, mark the best responses up to the
maximum for that item.
7. Record marks clearly on each script and on the summary mark sheet.

Marking Rules Summary

- Section A: short answers, each question as indicated. Use the guidance under each
question.
- Section B: four questions available; candidates choose any three. Each question = 20 marks
(i–iv each 5 marks).
- Sub-question marking: award 1 mark per correct point (full point entries given below).
Accept equivalent correct alternatives.
- Partial credit: award if the response shows correct partial knowledge; do not split 1-mark
points into fractions.
- Pass mark: 50/100 (50%).

SECTION A – Compulsory (40 Marks)

Marking guidance for each short question. Use these model answers to award marks.
Section A totals 40 marks.
1. 1. Define digital literacy. (2 marks)

Model answer (award up to 2 marks):

- Ability to use digital devices, software, and networks to access, evaluate, create, and share
information.
- Includes responsible and safe use of technology.

2. 2. List two categories of computer software. (2 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):

- System software (e.g., Windows, Linux).
- Application software (e.g., MS Word, Excel).

3. 3. Identify three hardware components of a computer system. (3 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):

- CPU (processor)
- RAM (memory)
- Motherboard / Storage / Power supply / Monitor (any three)

4. 4. Explain one function of an operating system. (3 marks)

Model answer (award up to 3 marks):

- Manages hardware resources, e.g., memory allocation, process scheduling, file
management. Full explanation gets 3 marks.

5. 5. Mention two devices that enhance digital accessibility for persons with disabilities. (2
marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):

- Screen reader
- Braille display / Adaptive keyboard / Speech-to-text devices

6. 6. State two examples of data storage devices. (2 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):

- HDD (hard disk drive)
- SSD (solid state drive) / USB flash drive / Memory card

7. 7. Define cybersecurity. (2 marks)

Model answer (award up to 2 marks):

- Protection of systems, networks, and data from digital attacks, unauthorized access, and
damage.

8. 8. List two examples of malicious software. (2 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):
- Virus
- Ransomware / Worm / Trojan / Spyware

9. 9. Explain one benefit of cloud computing. (3 marks)

Model answer (award up to 3 marks):

- Enables access to files and services from anywhere; supports scalability; provides backup
and redundancy.

10. 10. Identify two features of modern web browsers. (2 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):

- Tabbed browsing
- Private/incognito mode / Extensions / Password manager

11. 11. Mention two roles of antivirus software. (2 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):

- Detect and remove malware
- Provide real-time protection / Quarantine infected files

12. 12. List two examples of database software. (2 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):

- MySQL
- MS Access / Oracle / PostgreSQL

13. 13. Define digital footprint and give one example. (3 marks)

Model answer (award 2 marks for definition, 1 mark for example):

- Digital footprint: the record of a person's online activities and traces (posts, searches,
comments).
- Example: Social media posts or search history.

14. 14. State two benefits of digital inclusion in education. (2 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):

- Increased access to learning resources
- Reduced digital divide / Improved opportunities for remote learners

15. 15. Explain one way in which ICT supports sustainable development. (3 marks)

Model answer (award up to 3 marks):

- ICT reduces paper use, supports remote work and education, enables smart energy
management and monitoring.

16. 16. State three online payment methods. (3 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):
- M-Pesa / Mobile money
- PayPal
- Credit/Debit cards (Visa/Mastercard)

17. 17. Identify 2 examples of operating systems used in servers. (2 marks)

Model answer (1 mark each):

- Linux Server (e.g. Ubuntu Server)
- Windows Server

SECTION B – Expanded Point-Form Model Answers (Comprehensive)

Instructions for assessors: For each sub-question (i–iv), award 1 mark per correct point up
to 5 marks. Candidates are not required to use the exact phrasing below; accept equivalent
correct points.

QUESTION 18 – Hardware & System Performance (20 marks)

18(i). Explain how the CPU, RAM, and storage devices interact during program execution. (5
marks)

- Storage holds permanent files and programs.

- When a program runs, files are loaded from storage into RAM for faster access.
- RAM acts as high-speed temporary workspace for active data and instructions.
- The CPU fetches instructions and data from RAM (fetch-decode-execute cycle).
- CPU executes instructions and stores results back to RAM.
- Results or saved files are written from RAM back to storage.
- Cache memory (L1/L2/L3) provides faster small storage for CPU to reduce latency.
- Virtual memory uses disk space to extend RAM when physical RAM is insufficient.
- SSDs improve load times compared to HDDs; storage speed affects overall performance.
- Bottlenecks occur if any component (CPU/RAM/storage) is insufficient for the workload.

18(ii). Describe the function of input and output devices in a digital workplace. Give two
examples of each. (5 marks)

- Input devices capture data and user commands and convert them into digital signals.
- Examples of input: Keyboard (text entry), Mouse (pointer/navigation), Touchscreen,
Scanner, Microphone, Barcode reader, Biometric scanner.
- Output devices present processed information to users in readable or usable form.
- Examples of output: Monitor (visual display), Printer (hard copies), Projector, Speakers,
Headphones.
- Input and output devices enable data entry, user interaction, communication,
documentation, and reporting in workplaces.

18(iii). Explain how device drivers enable communication between hardware and operating
systems. (5 marks)
- Device drivers are software components that translate OS-level commands into device-
specific instructions.
- Drivers allow the OS to recognize and control hardware devices, e.g., printers, graphics
cards, network adapters.
- Drivers provide standard interfaces so applications can access hardware without handling
device-level specifics.
- Drivers may provide configuration options and enable advanced features of devices.
- Proper drivers improve performance and ensure compatibility; missing or corrupt drivers
cause device malfunction.

18(iv). Discuss how system upgrades (hardware and software) can improve performance
and efficiency in digital environments. (5 marks)

- RAM upgrades increase available workspace, improving multitasking and responsiveness.

- Replacing HDDs with SSDs reduces boot and load times significantly.
- CPU upgrades increase processing capabilities for compute-intensive tasks.
- GPU upgrades speed up graphics and parallel computations (useful for media,
simulations).
- Firmware and driver updates can resolve compatibility and performance issues.
- Software updates and optimizations reduce resource consumption and fix bugs.
- Regular maintenance (cleaning, cooling upgrades) prevents thermal throttling and
hardware failures.
- Upgrades extend the useful life of systems and can be more cost-effective than full
replacement.

QUESTION 19 – System Software & Utilities (20 marks)

19(i). Differentiate between system software and application software with examples. (5
marks)

- System software manages hardware and provides a platform for applications (e.g.,
Windows, Linux, macOS).
- Examples: Operating systems, device drivers, firmware.
- Application software helps users perform specific tasks (e.g., MS Word, Excel, Chrome,
Photoshop).
- Applications run on top of the system software and rely on OS services like file I/O,
memory allocation.
- System software operates in the background; application software is user-facing and task-
specific.

19(ii). Describe the key roles of an operating system in managing computer resources. (5
marks)

- Memory management: allocating and freeing RAM for processes.

- Process and CPU scheduling: managing execution order and multitasking.
- File system management: organizing, storing, and retrieving files.
- Device management: using drivers to control peripherals.
- Security and access control: user authentication, permissions, and protection mechanisms.
- Networking: managing network connections and resources.
- Error handling and system logging.

19(iii). Explain how utility programs such as antivirus, defragmenters, and backup tools
maintain system health. (5 marks)

- Antivirus scans, detects, and removes malicious software; provides real-time protection
and quarantine.
- Defragmenters reorder fragmented files on HDDs to improve read/write efficiency (not
required for SSDs).
- Backup tools copy files or system images to secure locations for recovery after failure.
- Disk cleanup removes temporary and unnecessary files freeing storage space.
- System monitors and maintenance utilities track performance and allow troubleshooting.

19(iv). Discuss how system updates and patches contribute to cybersecurity and stability.
(5 marks)

- Patches fix software vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.

- Updates often include security enhancements and updated libraries.
- Bug fixes improve system reliability and prevent crashes.
- Compatibility updates ensure software works with new hardware and other applications.
- Regular updates reduce attack surface and increase operational stability.

QUESTION 20 – Networking & Data Security (20 marks)

20(i). Identify and explain three network hardware components and their functions. (5
marks)

- Router: directs data packets between networks, provides IP routing, and connects LANs to
WANs/internet.
- Switch: connects devices within a LAN and forwards frames to the correct destination MAC
address.
- Modem: modulates and demodulates signals for transmission over telephone/cable lines;
enables ISP connectivity.
- Access Point: provides wireless network connectivity to devices.
- Network Interface Card (NIC): hardware interface that connects a device to a network
medium.

20(ii). Describe the purpose of firewalls and intrusion detection systems in network
security. (5 marks)

- Firewall: enforces network security policies by filtering inbound and outbound traffic
based on rules.
- Firewalls block unauthorized access and prevent certain types of attacks.
- IDS (Intrusion Detection System): monitors network traffic to detect suspicious activities
and anomalies.
- IDS alerts administrators to potential breaches; may be signature-based or anomaly-based.
- Firewalls and IDS together form layered defence; IDS complements firewall by detecting
internal threats.

20(iii). Explain how data encryption ensures confidentiality and integrity in digital
communication. (5 marks)

- Encryption converts plaintext into ciphertext using cryptographic algorithms and keys.
- Only parties with the correct decryption key can restore original data, ensuring
confidentiality.
- Encryption of data in transit (TLS/SSL) protects communications over the internet.
- Hashing and digital signatures verify integrity and non-repudiation of data.
- Encryption of data at rest protects stored sensitive information on disks and cloud storage.

20(iv). Discuss the importance of user awareness and password policies in preventing cyber
threats. (5 marks)

- User awareness training reduces successful phishing and social engineering attacks.
- Password policies (complexity, length, rotation) reduce risk of compromised accounts.
- Use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds extra security layer.
- Regular security briefings and simulated phishing exercises strengthen human defences.
- Clear reporting channels for incidents help rapid response to breaches.

QUESTION 21 – Emerging Technologies & Digital Inclusion (20 marks)

21(i). Explain how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming digital workplaces and
learning environments. (5 marks)

- AI automates repetitive tasks (e.g., data entry, scheduling) increasing efficiency.

- Predictive analytics helps forecast trends and supports decision-making.
- Chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 support for customers and learners.
- Adaptive learning systems personalise content to learners' needs and pace.
- AI-driven accessibility features (speech-to-text, image recognition) improve inclusion.

21(ii). Discuss how the Internet of Things (IoT) supports automation and data collection. (5
marks)

- IoT devices use sensors to collect real-time data (temperature, motion, usage).
- Connected devices communicate to central systems or cloud services for analysis.
- Automation triggers actions based on sensor input (e.g., alerts, adjustments).
- IoT supports predictive maintenance by analyzing sensor data to prevent failures.
- IoT improves operational efficiency in agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and smart
buildings.

21(iii). Explain how affordable hardware devices enhance digital inclusion. (5 marks)
- Low-cost tablets and smartphones reduce barriers to digital access for low-income users.
- Affordable devices enable access to e-learning, job opportunities, and e-government
services.
- Portable devices provide internet access in rural areas through mobile networks.
- Low-cost hardware often runs lightweight or open-source software suitable for older
devices.
- Distribution programs for affordable devices help narrow the digital divide.

21(iv). Suggest ways governments or institutions can use open-source software to promote
inclusive access to technology. (5 marks)

- Deploy open-source operating systems (Linux) on public computers to reduce licensing

costs.
- Use open-source educational platforms (Moodle) to deliver free learning content.
- Localize and adapt open-source tools to local languages and needs.
- Encourage community training and support for open-source solutions.
- Provide funding and infrastructure for deployment and maintenance.

Marking and Moderation Instructions

1. Marking:
- For each sub-question in Section B award 1 mark per valid point up to 5 marks.
- Use the model answers as guidance; award equivalent technical answers.
- If a candidate gives more than 5 valid points for a sub-question, mark the best 5.
- Do not split 1-mark points into fractions; award full marks per valid point.
2. Moderation:
- Sample at least 20% of marked scripts for moderation.
- Resolve discrepancies through discussion and adjust marks consistently.
3. Record-keeping:
- Ensure all scripts have marks recorded and signed off by the assessor.

Administrative Notes
- Retain all marked scripts and the marking scheme for the required retention period.
- Ensure confidentiality of candidates' marks until official release.
- Report any suspected malpractice immediately following institution protocols.