Information and Communications Technology: Systems, Software and Safety
The GABECE ICT paper tests computer systems, hardware and software, input and output, storage, operating systems, word processing, spreadsheets, the internet, and safe and ethical use. Use exact terms and commands; small differences such as a missing equals sign can change a spreadsheet answer.
Core rules and concepts
- Computer parts: the CPU processes instructions; RAM is temporary working memory; ROM is permanent; hard disks and flash drives store data. Input devices send data in; output devices present results.
- Software: system software includes the operating system, which manages files, memory and devices. Application software includes word processors, spreadsheets and browsers.
- Files and folders: use meaningful names and extensions. Save, save as, copy, move and back up work regularly.
- Word processing: use formatting, tables, spell check, alignment and page setup. Keep consistent fonts and headings.
- Spreadsheets: a cell reference is like B2. Formulas begin with '=' and use functions such as SUM, AVERAGE, MAX and MIN. A colon shows a range, as in B2:B5.
- Internet and safety: a browser displays web pages; a URL is a web address. Use strong passwords, avoid unknown attachments, respect copyright, and do not share personal data.
Worked example
Cells B2 to B5 contain 10, 15, 20 and 25. To find the total, type =SUM(B2:B5). The result is 70. To find the average, type =AVERAGE(B2:B5). The result is 17.5. Reasoning: the equals sign starts the formula; the colon means all cells from B2 to B5; SUM adds and AVERAGE divides the total by the count, which is 4.
Traps that cost marks
- Typing SUM(B2:B5) without the leading equals sign.
- Confusing RAM with ROM or storage.
- Saying the internet and the World Wide Web are exactly the same.
- Using a weak password or opening unknown attachments.
- Forgetting that a spreadsheet range uses a colon.
- Saving over original work without keeping a backup.