AKAM Digital Society ASSIGNMENTS: Strategies for Answering Paper 1 Questions

Writing problems that often appear in examination responses

etc. (worth no marks)

–> (used in math meaning if…then), do not use in writing

& (write out ‘and’)

Avoid SMS-speak (‘u’ instead of ‘you’ and other instances)

misspelling words that appear in the question or misspelling ITGS words

phrases such as ‘it is obvious’ contributes nothing to the argument

Know ITGS terminology and void misunderstandings such as

“Internet is broken” meaning the students cannot get access

confusing terminology such “tele-conferencing” with “video-conferencing”, “reliability’ with ‘integrity’

a flash drive being called a “USB”

a server that is “not secure” is not called “insecure”

Extended response Strategies for Paper 1

As a student you should:

recognize that the Triangle is a basis for the questions on Paper 1. The structure on Paper 1 questions shows that students must understand the scenario presented, answer questions regarding the IT systems that underpin that scenario and then move on to address social and ethical impacts relating to the stakeholders.

be guided by command terms from pages 71-72 of the Guide throughout the course in all assignments and tests. They need to receive written feedback regarding how well they address the question and the command term in their responses.

learn how to organize the responses to extended response questions, use relevant ITGS terminology (IT terminology and/or social and ethical considerations) and provide evidence (specific examples) and make evaluation(s) and conclusions that go beyond being a repeat of what has been written.

Strategies for answering Paper 1 question

a) Normally 1-2 Marks

Identify: Provide an answer from a number of possibilities.

State: Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation.

Define: Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity.

b) Normally 2-4 Marks
Describe:Give a detailed account, Step by step, give an example where possible

c) Normally 4-6 Marks
Explain:Give a detailed account including reasons or causes; Examples from the stimulus material should used to support the explanation.

Compare: Give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or scenarios, referring to both (all) of them throughout. Comparison should be done concurrently.

Distinguish: Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.

Analyze: Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure. Positives & Negatives should brought out.

d) Evaluate, to what extent, discuss, Normally 8 Marks

Evaluate; Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations. For every limitation recommend a solution.

Discuss: Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses that touches both sides. For every negative impact, recommend a solution. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

To What Extent: Consider the merits and demerits or otherwise of an argument or concept. For the demerits recommend viable solutions. Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence and sound argument.