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Computer KCSE PAST Papers Papers

Programming (Mount Kenya University)

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PAST PAPERS
COMPUTER STUDIES
PAPER 1
(THEORY)
OCT/NOV 2023

SECTION A (40 MKS)

Answer all the questions in this section in spaces provided.

1. Using a program flowchart explain the “WHILE…DO” interaction construction.

(3mks)
2. Explain two uses of an uninterruptible power supply unit (2mks)

3. Explain the meaning of BACKUP (2mks)

4. Define an operating system (2mks)

5. State two advantages of electronic spreadsheets over manual worksheets. (2mks)

6. State two roles of a system analyst (2mks)

7. Define a primary key field (3mks)

8. State three functions of a database management system (3mks)
9 a) Define local area network
b) State any two components of a local area network (2mks)

10. a) State two types of computer output devices (2mks)

b) State a situation where real time processing would be appropriate. (1mk)

11. State three functions of the central processing Unit (CPU) (3mks)

12. a) Explain the difference between system software and application programs.
(2mks)
b) Explain the difference between digital and analogue computers. (2mks)
13. a) Explain the difference Random Access Memory and Read Only Memory
(2mks)
b) State in which memory the monitor program would be stored. (1mk)
14. State the two requirements of computer program testing (2mks)

15. For each of the following file organization methods, state an appropriate storage
medium.
a) Serial

b) Random (2 mks)

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

Answer question 16 and any other three questions
16. Students sat for a test in computer studies. The table below gives the marks
obtained and the number of students obtaining the marks.
Write a program in a structured high-level language to calculate the mean of the
result. The formula for the mean is given in the table below.
(15mks)
Marks obtained (x) Number of students (f)
10 1
15 2
20 6
25 5
30 10
35 6
40 4
45 2
50 1
55 1

Formula for the mean:

Mean =  fx

f
17. a) Briefly explain the following terms:
i. cell
ii. range
iii. label
iv. value
v. Function
b) A spreadsheet has the following entries

A B C D E F G
1 PROJECTED
BUDGET
2 Percent 10.0%
3
4 ITEM 1996 1997 1998
5 Food 56,000
6 Clothes 24,000
7 Fees 50,000
8 Transport 20,000
9. Entertainment 15,000
10
11

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Provide a formula for cell C5 that can be copied onto cell D5 and the range
C6…D10 to give a uniform increase of 10% of the previous year’s value for each
item. (3mks)

c) State two advantages of word processors over manual typewriters (2mks)

d) List three formatting features of word processor (3mks)

e) Explain the difference between the printing of multiple copies and the
printing of multiple pages. (2mks)

18. a) state any three reasons why people may resist the introduction of
computers at their place of work. (3mks)

b) Explain the difference between data privacy and data security. (4mks)

c) State two operational methods of an organization ensuring the security of

data. (2mks)

d) Explain the use of computers in health care (6mks)

19. a) i) Define normalization (2mks)

ii) State three objectives of normalization (3mks)

b) What is a distributed system? (3mks)

c) State any four criteria for choosing an operating system (4mks)

20. a) Match the computer generation with the technology used to make the
Processor

Generation Technology
Third Thermionic values
First Integrated circuits
Fourth Transistor
Second Large scale integration
(4mks)

b) Draw a block diagram showing the function units of computer hardware.

Name the units.
(6mks)

c) i) List three types of secondary storage media (3mks)

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ii) State one advantage and one disadvantage of a laser printer

(2mks)
PAPER 1
OCT. /NOV. 1999
2 ½ HOURS

Instruction to Candidate
This paper consist of Two sections; A and B
Answer all the questions in section A
Answer question 16 and any other Three questions from section B
All answer should be written in the spaces provided on the question paper.

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

Answer all questions in this section
1. State any three functions of a computer (3mks)
2. Give two types of storage devices used in a computer giving an example of each.
(4 mks)
3. Give any three precautionary measures considered to ensure the safety of
computers in a computer laboratory (3mks)
4. Define
a) File

b) Record

c) Field
5. List two features of word processor (2mks)
6. Differentiate between the hardware and software components of a computer
giving an example of each (4mks)
7. What is program documentation? Give two examples of program documentations
(3mks)
8. Give two differences between high-level and low-level languages. (2mks)

9. Worksheet cells are referenced using the column letter and row number e.g. D2 is
cell in column D and row 2.
Use the sample worksheet provided to answer the questions below.

A B C D E F
1 Moth Jan. Feb Mar. April Total
2 Fees 460 460 460 460
3. Food 300 350- 305 270
4. Electricity 100 100 100 100
5. Fuel 150 150 150 150
6 Transport 38 270 150 300
7 total

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a) Write down the data type that is stored in cells C5 (1mk)

b) What cell contains the data items representing transport for the month of
February? (1 mk)

c) Write down the formula that may be used to compute the total in cell F6. (1mk)

10. Name any two types of graphs that are supported by spreadsheets (2mks)

11. What is a relationship database? (2mks)

12. As regards to communication within a computer network, what do you understand

by the following terms: (2mks)
i) Point –to-point
ii) Broadcast
13. Give any two types of data entries that may be input into a worksheet cell
(2mks)
14. Give any two function of a system analyst. (2mks)
15. List any three program control structures used in programming (3mks)

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SECTION B (60 MKS)

ANSWER QUESTION 16 AND ANY OTHER THREE QUESTIONS

16. The roots of the equation ax2 + bx + c = 0 are given by the formula

X= -b  b + 4ac
And a 0
2a

a) Draw a flow-chart to compute the roots of the equation. (10mks)

b) Using the flow-chart write a program that will compute the roots and if b2-
4ac is negative, the program should display the message “NEGATIVE”
(5mks)
17. A multinational organization has offered to donate computers to your school. The
Board of Governors has requested you advise on the operating system to be used
by providing answers the following questions.
a) What is an operating system? (1mk)
b) State and briefly explain any two types of operating systems (6mks)

c) Briefly explain any four functions of an operating system. (8mks)

18. a) i) State one area where computer are used. (2mk)

ii) Give any two advantages of using computers in this area (4mks)

b) Explain the effect of computers technology in the following areas:

i) Job opportunities
ii) Job Skills
iii) Communication (9mks)

19. A computer vendor has recommended the use of a computer database to your
school for student information
a) Explain to the Board of Governors what a database is and its functions
(5mks)
b) Give two examples of database systems (2mks)

c) Briefly explain any two advantages and two disadvantages of using a

Database (8mks)
20. a) what is a computer network topology? (2mks)

b) Using appropriate diagrams, show any three computer network topologies

(9mks)

c) Briefly explain two reasons why organizations need to network their

computers. (4mks)

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COMPUTER STUDIES
(THEORY)
PAPER 1
OCT./NOV. 2000

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

ANSWER ALL THE QUESTION IN THIS SECTION

1. Write the following abbreviations in full. (3mks)

i) BCD

ii) ASCII

iii) EBDIC

2. Define the term array as used in computer programming (2mks)

3. Suggest how computers may in future be made more users friendly for persons
that are
a) BCD

b) Without hands

4. State three advantages of computer networking (3mks)

5. Name six steps in program development cycle in their logical sequence. (3mks)

6. State two methods of minimizing dust in a computer laboratory. (2mks)

7. Differentiate between primary memory and secondary memory (2mks)

8. List the steps that you would use to correct wrongly spelt words in a document
using the spell-checking feature. (3mks)

9. Differentiate between single-user and multi-user operating systems giving an

example of each. (3mks)

10. State what is meant by each of the following and give an example of where each
is used
a) Magnetic Ink character Recognition (MICR) (2 mks)

b) Optical Mark Read (OMR) (2mks)

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11. In the following flowchart, what will be the value of the sum when printed?
Show how you arrive at your answer.

Begin

Sum = 0
R: = 0

R: = r + 1
Term: = r (2) +r
Sun: sum + term

R=3 F

Print sum

Stop

12. Distinguish between system software and application software. (2mks)

13. Explain any three of the terms: creating, editing, printing and saving as used in
word-processing (3mks)

14. List three file organization methods in a computer (3mks)

15. What is the use of the search and replace feature in a word-processor? (2mks)

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

ANSWER QUESTION 16 AND ANY THREE OTHER QUESTIONS.

16. A program is required for reading in a student’s name and 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. (15 mks)

17. a) what is meant by data communication in a computer network? (2mks)

b) State what is meant by each of the following transmission media and give
one advantage and one disadvantage for each .

i) Twisted pair cables (3mks)

ii) Coaxial cables (3mks)

iii) Optic fibre cables (3mks)

c) List four network elements in a location area network. (4mks)

18. 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 took a cup of tea and two bananas. Tea, sausages
and bananas cost Ksh. 10, 15, and 5 respectively.

By naming columns A, B, C, … and rows 1, 2, 3 …

a) Construct a worksheet showing the above information. (7mks)

b) State the expression you would use to obtain:

i) Total expenditure by David (4mks)

ii) Total number of sausages taken (2mks)

iii) The cost of the cheapest item (2mks)

19. a) What are computer viruses? (2mks)

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b) i) State two ways through which computer viruses may be controlled

(2mks)
ii) Explain how each of the two ways stated in b (i) above assist in
controlling computer viruses. (2mks)

c) Define each of the following computer terminologies (3mks)

i) byte

ii) bit

iii) word

d) Convert the hexadecimal number FC1 to its binary equivalent. (6mks)

20. a) A firm intends to purchase new software. List three items that should
accompany the software. (3mks)

b) State and explain three ways that computer technology could make office
work more efficient. (6mks)

c) Explain the meaning of each of the following computer crimes; (6mks)

i) Hacking

ii) Fraud

iiii) Piracy

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COMPUTER STUDIES
(THEORY)
PAPER 1
OCT. /NOV. 2001

INSTRUCTION TO CANDIDATES
This paper consists of two sections; a and b
Answer all the questions in section a
Answer question 15 and any other three questions form section B
All answer should be written in the spaces provided on the question paper.

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

ANSWER ALL THE QUESTIONS IN THIS SECTION
1. Compare the two types of diskettes used in microcomputers in terms of physical
size and densities. (2mks)
2. Why is it necessary to have a UPS in a computer laboratory? (2mks)

3 a) Explain what is meant by batch processing (1mk)

b) Give one advantage and one disadvantage of batch processing (2mks)

4. List any four high level programming languages (2mks)

5. A 3 by 4 matrix M is to be added to another 3 by 4 matrix array N so as to give a

third 3 by 4 matrix array P. Using a high level programming language, write a
program segment that assigns the sum of M and N to P. (4mks)
6. the first column in the table below contains the formulae as stored into the cell
F10 of a spreadsheet. Enter the formulae, as they would appear when copied to
the cell M20 of the same spreadsheet.

Formula in F10 Formula in m20

=D10* E10
=A$ 25
=$ D$13

(3mks)

7. Give three advantages of separating data from the applications that use the data in
database design. (3mks)

8. Explain the impact of information on organizations in each of the following areas:

(2mks)

a) Competition

b) Pace of growth

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9. a) List any four tasks that an electronic spreadsheet should be able to perform
other than calculations (2mks)

b) Explain what is meant by automatic recalculation as used in a spreadsheet.

(1 mk)
10. Describe the functions of the following computer hardware components:

a) Mouse (2 ½ mks)

b) Scanner. (1 ½ mks)

11. State two differences between Disk Operating System (DOS) and WINDOWS
operating system.

b. i) Define the term application software (1mk)

ii) Give one example of application software (1mk)

12. a) Give one difference between internal and external commands in Disk
Operating System. (2mks)

b) Name twp DOS commands that may be used for checking disk errors.

(2mks)

13. Explain how a paragraph can be moved from one place to another in word-
processing. (2mks)

14. Define the term structured programming. (2mks)

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SECTION B (60MKS)
Answer question 15 and any other three questions from this section.

15. a) What is meant by each of the following terms:

i) psuedocode (1 ½ mks)

ii) Flowchart (1 ½ mks)

b) a program is required to list the first 1000 numbers in the series: 2, 4, 6, 8,

10,.. Draw a flowchart and write a program that can be carry out this task.
(12
mks)

16. 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 types (5mks)

b) Explain how you index the data such that cars of the same make
and colours are together (2mks)

c) Write a statement that can be used to select cars of the colour green
(2 mks)
d) Give an instruction that would;
i) select cars whose cost lie between 500,000/= and
1,000,000/= (3 mks)

ii) Determine the average cost of all cars (3mks)

17. a) The diagram below represents the essential features o a computer system .
Study the diagram and answer the questions that follow:

A B Output device

Secondary storage

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i) Name the components (4mks)

A
B
C
D

ii) On the diagram above, indicate the direction of data flow using
arrows.
(3mks)

b) Name the three types of buses in a computer system

(3mks)

c) Explain how CPU registers may be used to carry out a basic calculation
such as:
2+7=9

d) Name two computers output devices. (1

Mark)
18. a) State three ways in which computer technology may affect employment
patterns in organizations (3mks)
b) State three ways in which computer technology may affect employment
patterns in organizations (3mks)
c) Suggest three strategies that can be employed to manage resistance to
change (3mks)
d) Give three advantages of computerization in an organization. (3mks)

19. a) In a computer based information system, state the purpose of the following
files and give one example where such a file may be required in a school.
(8mks)
i) Report file
ii) Back-up file
iii) Reference file
iv) Sort file

b) State three precautions that should be taken to ensure that diskettes are
well stored. (3 mks)

c) Distinguish between “serial” and Indexed sequential” file organization

methods. (2mks)

d) Distinguish between binary and octal number systems and give an

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example of each (2mks)

COMPUTER STUDIES
PAPER 1
THEORY
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2002

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

1. Describe the purpose of each of the following computer functional units: (2mks)
a) Control
b) Storage

2. Explain how each of the following would affect the suitability of a room for use
as a computer room: (2mks)

a) Burglar proofed door

b) Availability of taps and sinks in the room

3. State three data representation codes used in computers (3mks)

4. State two types of documentation in program development and give the purpose
of each. (4mks)

5. Suppose a 5 element array A contains the values 9, 12, 17, 7 and 20. Find the
value in a after executing the loop below:

Repeat for k = 1 to 4
Set A [k +1]: = A [k]
[End of loop] (3mks)

6. State any three activities that occur in a program compilation process (3mks)

7. The formula = k20 + P$ 18 was typed in cell L21 and then copied to cell M24 of a
spreadsheet. Write the formula as it appears in cell M24.
(2mks)

8. State two ways in which a computer may be used in efficient running of a hospital
(2mks)
9. List three disadvantage of using traditional file management method (3mks)

10. Give one disadvantage of a single processor multi-user system (1mk)

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11. List three differences between a micro-computer and super-computer. (3mks)

12. State and explain two reasons why word processing is one of the most common
applications of many computer users.
(2mks)

13. write- 1 in twos compliment notation in byte form (4mks)

14. Explain the following input/output terms as used in computer systems. Give an
example for each (4mks)
a) Read

b) Write
15. State two disadvantages of networking.

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SECTION B (60 MKS)

Answer question 16 and any other three questions from this section.

16. The following flowchart can be used to list the odd numbers between 0 and 100

Start

Odd=1

Write Odd
Odd=Odd+2

Odd<99

Stop

a) Write a program segment for the flowchart using a high level language.
(7mks)

b) What would be the output from the flowchart if the statement in the
decision box
is changed to: (3 mks)

i) Odd = 100

ii) Odd< 100

iii) Odd> 100

c) Modify the flowchart so that it prints only the sum of the odd number
between 0 and 100 (5mks)

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17. a) List five precautions that can be taken to protect data stored in diskettes
(5mks)
b) State and explain two precautions that can be taken to help recover data
lost through accidental erasure. (4mks)

c) Describe each of the following data processing methods: (6mks)

i) Batch processing

ii) Distributed processing

iii) Multiprogramming

18. a) i) What is a computer keyboard? (1 mk)

ii) List four types of keys found on a computer keyboard. Give an

example of each (4mks)

b) Give four differences between present day’s computers and the older
generation of computers (4mks)

c) i) State three advantages and one disadvantage of using a laser

printer.
(4mks)

ii) Distinguish between a line printer and a page printer

(2mks)

19 a) Identity three public Universities and three National Polytechnics in

Kenya where further computer training is offered. In case, state the
highest level of qualification that can be acquired in computer training.
(6 mks)
b) Distinguish between “Job replacement” and “Job displacement” in
references to computerization. (2mks)

c) Give four reasons why a firm may decide to computerize its operations.
(4mks)
d) An individual has a right to demand guarantee to privacy of personal
information stored on a computer.

Give three such types of information. (3mks)

20. a) Give three comparisons of the traditional file management method of

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typing a document on a typewriter against using a word processor.

(6mks)

b) i) Define the term spreadsheet (1 mk)

ii) Give two examples of spreadsheet packages available in the

market today (2mks)

c) Explain the following terms as used in a spreadsheet:

i) What if …analysis (2 mks)

ii) Cell (1 mk)

iii) Formula (1mk)

iv) Pie chart (2 mks)

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COMPUTER STUDIES
PAPER
(THEORY)
OCT./NOV. 2003

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES
This paper consists of two sections’ A and B.
Answer All the questions in section A
Answer question 16 and an other three questions from section B
All answers should be written in the spaces provided on the question paper

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

Answer all the questions in this section

1. Computer systems are built from three types of physical components: processors,
memories and 1/O devices.

a) State two tasks of a processor (2 mks)

b) State function of 1/O devices (1 mk)

2. Threats to the safety of computer systems take many forms such as: white-collar
crime, natural disasters, vandalism and careless ness.
Give on way as to how each of these forms of threats can be controlled.

(2 mks)
3. a) Explain the term nibbles as used in data representation in computers
b) Perform the following binary arithmetic giving the answers in decimal
notation. (3 mks)

i) 1110.01111 + 11010001 .011

ii) 1001011.011 - 111.111

4 a) Distinguish between machine and assembly language (2mks)

b) State the type of translator necessary for a program written in: (2mks)
i) High level language
ii) Assembly language

5. Briefly explain the purpose of the following types of program documentation:

(3mks)
a) User manual
b) Reference guide
c) Quick reference guide
6. State any two features of a user-friendly program. (2mks)

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7 a) Distinguish between labels and formulae with respect to spreadsheets

(2mks)
b) Consider the entries in the cells below.

Cell B2 B3 C10 C11 C13

Entry 200 100 B2 B3 C10

State the value displayed in cell C13 (2 mks)

8. List three differences between wide area Networks (WAN) and Local Area
Networks (LAN)
(3mks)

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9. Study the flowchart segment below and state the last value printed from the
flowchart. (2 mks)

K=1

K=K+1
M [K] =10

Print M [K]
K>5
YES
NO

EXIT

10. a) What is an expert system (1mk)

b) State any two components of an expert system (2mks)

11. Give two reasons why optical disks are better storage media compared to floppy
diskettes (2mks)

12. What are the Dos commands used for the following? (2mks)

a) Changing directories

b) Viewing directories

c) Renaming directories

d) Deleting a directory

13. Distinguish between copying and moving text (2mks)

14. a) Name two methods of paper orientation (1mk)

b) Name two keys used to delete text in a document (1 mk)

15. Name two features a Database package (2mks)

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SECTION B (60 MKS)

Answer question and any other three questions from this section

16. Study the flowchart below and answer the questions that follow.

a) Write a high-level language program for the above flowchart (7mks)

b) List the outputs of the flowchart above (5 mks)

c) Modify the flowchart so that it adds up all its outputs and displays the sum
obtained (3mks)

17. A computer specification has the following details:

Pentium II
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
i) 1.44 MB floppy disk drive?
ii) 20 GB hard disk?
iii) 17” SVGA monitor

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b) Which operating system might be pre-installed in this computer and why?

(2mks)
c) List three multimedia components (3 mks)

d) i) what is meant by computer aided manufacture? (2 mks)

ii) Give two examples of computer aided design software. (2mks)

18. a) Give three examples of network software (3mks)

b) List any three items that may be referred to as data terminal equipment in
a network (3 mks)

c) Briefly explain the following terms as used in networking (4mks)

i) Remote communication
ii) Distributed processing

d) State three advantages and two disadvantages of mesh network topology.

(5mks)
19. a) a company has decided to computerize their operations. They have
decided to purchase package instead of developing their own programs.
Give three advantages and two disadvantages of this approach.
(5mks)
b) i) explain why a value such as 611233444555 may be displayed as
######### When typed in a cell of a spreadsheet (2mks)

ii) How can the problem in b (i) above be corrected? (2mks)

c) With reasons, briefly describe the most appropriate type of printer output
device for the output of:
(6mks)

i) Customer invoices on multi-part stationery

ii) Letters to customers
iii) Detailed engineering designs
20. a) Distinguish between the following pair of terms (6mks)
i) Data verification and data validation
ii) Data encryption and passwords
iii) Dry run and walk through
b) Draw a labeled diagram to illustrate the internal structure of a diskette.
(4mks)
c) Give two differences between post office mail and electronic mail
(E-mail) (2mks)

d) Speed and accuracy are some of the advantages of using computers in

banking. State three other advantages of use of computers in banking.

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(3mks)

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COMPUTER STUDIES
PAPER 1
(THEORY)
OCT./NOV. 2005
2 ½ HOURS

SECTION A (40 MKS)

Answer all the questions in this section.
1. a) What is disk formatting? (1mk)

b) Indicate whether the following devices are used for input or output
(2mks)
i) Plotter
ii) Light pen
iii) Mouse
iv) Visual display unit
2. a) Explain why the following give one reason why they are not allowed in a
computer laboratory. (2mks)

b) For each of the following give one reason why they are not allowed in a
computer laboratory. (2mks)

i) Smoking
ii) Eating foods
3. Distinguish between Real, integer and Character data types as used in
programming (3 mks)

4. The cells k3 to K10 of a worksheet contain remarks on student’s 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”
(3mks)
5. a) State the purpose of registers in a computer system (1mk)
b) Name two multiprogramming operating systems (2 mks)
6. a) A series file comprises of records placed in positions 1 to 10. State the
position of the end of file marker. (1mk)

b) State the purpose of each of the following: (2mks)

i) File server software
ii) Communication software
7. a) Name the control structure depicted by the flowchart below. (1 mk)

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b) Explain the following terms as used in program implementation. (2mks)

i) Parallel running

ii) Direct change over

8. Consider the linear arrays:

i) AAA (5:50)

ii) BBB (-5:10)

iii) CC (18)

Find the number of elements in each array (3mks)

9. Define the term artificial intelligence (2 mks)

10. Name two types of relationships that can be applied in database design (2mks)

11 Explain binary Coded Decimal code of data representation (1 mk)

a) Indenting

b) Alignment

c) Word wrap

12. Outline two ways in which computer can be used in hotels (2 Marks)

13. a) Explain Binary Coded Decimal code of data representation (marks)

b) Write the number 4110 in BCD notation (1 mk)

14. Arrange the following data units in ascending order of size.
BYTE, FILE, BIT, NIBBlE (2mks)

15. State two health issues that may result from prolonged use of computers (2 mks)

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

16. a) State the stage of program development in which (4 mk)

i) A flowchart would be drawn
ii) The programmer would check whether the program does as
required
iii) The user guide would be written
iv) The requirements specifications would be written.

b) State the output of following flow chart segment (1mk)

c) i) Draw flowchart to compute the combined resistance ® of two

resistors R1 and R2 in parallel using the formula;

R =1
1
/R 1 + 1/R2 (5mks)
ii) Write a program using Pascal or C languages for the flowchart in C
(i) Above. (5 ½ mks)
17. a) List three paragraph formatting activities in word processing (3mks)

b) Differentiate between bolding and highlighting text (2mks)

c) 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 (4mks)
ii) State the expression that would be used to obtain:
I Monday’s profit (2mks)
II Total income (2mks)
III) Highest expenditure (2mks)

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18. a) Subtract 0112 from 10012 (1mk)

b) Using two’s compliment, subtract 7 from 4 and give the answer in decimal
notation (4mks)
c) Convert
i) 91B16 to octal (3mks)

ii) 3768 to hexadecimal (3mks)

iii) 9.62510 to binary (4 mks)

19. a) Explain what the following DOS commands will do when executed.
i) A: \copy *.* B: (2 mks)
ii) C: \> ERASE*. DOC (2mks)
iii) b: \> Md EXAMS (2mks)
b) i) With the aid of a diagram, explain hierarchical (tree) network
topology (3mks)

ii) List two advantages and two disadvantage of hierarchical network

topology. (4 mks)
Advantages:-
Disadvantages:
20. a) Name and explain the function of the keyboard keys represented by the
following symbols.

i)
(2mks)

ii)

iii)
(2mks)

b) Simulation is one of the application areas of computers

i) What is meant by the term simulation (1mk)

ii) Name two application areas of simulation (2 mks)

iii) State three advantages of computer based simulation (3 mks)

c) Explain three ways in which computers have impacted on education

(3mks)

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COMPUTER STUDIES
PAPER 1
(THEORY)
OCT./Nov. 2006
2 ½ hours

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

1. What is meant by
a) Analogue data
b) Digital data (4 mks)

2. Distinguish between transcription and transposition types of errors and give an

example of each (4mks)
3. a) what are peripheral devices? (1mk)

b) Give two examples of peripheral devices (1mk)

4 a) What meant by the term user-friendly as used in software development?

(1mk)
b) Distinguish between the terms single-tasking and multi-user as used in
operating systems (2mks)
5. What actions should be taken in case of a fire outbreak in the computer
laboratory? (4mks)

6 a) What is an Internet Service Provider? (1mk)

b) 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. (1mk)

ii) Give an example of software used by this employee to carry out

the above task.
(1mk)
7. Differentiate between COM ports and LPT ports (2mks)

8. Explain two ways in which ICT can enhance commerce. (2mks)

9. Explain the following software terms:

a) Portability (1 mk)
b) Modularity (1 mk)

10. a) State two application areas of a desktop publishing software. (2mks)

b) Explain the following graphic terms:
i) Rotate (1 mk)
ii) Crop (1mk)
12. a) List two arithmetic operations that can be performed on a row of numeric

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data in a word processing table. (1 mk)

b) In each case of (a) above, write the expression used.

(2mks)

13. List two methods of gathering information during system development process.
(2mks)
14. Name three types of optical disks. (3mks)

15. The diagram below shows a formatted plate surface of a storage disk.

Shade and label:

a) one sector ( 1mk)
b) One block (1mk)

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SECTION B (60 MKS)

Answer question 16 and any other three questions from this section in the space
provided
16 a) List two examples of:
i) Third generation languages (2mks)
ii) Object oriented languages (2 mks)
b) Draw a flowchart to compare three non-equal numeric values A, B, C and
prints the largest of the three. (11 mks)

17 a) One of the functions of an operating system is job scheduling. Explain

what is mean by job scheduling. (1mk)

b) List and explain three types of user interfaces. (6 mks)

c) Describe the following categories of software:
i) Firmware (1mk)
ii) Proprietary software (1mk)
d) a new company XYZ intends to go into the business of desktop
publishing. Advise the company on three computer hardware system
specification features to consider as a measure of enhancing performance.
(6 mks)
18. a) distinguish between the following sets of terms as used in spreadsheets.
(2mks)
i) Worksheet and workbook
ii) Filtering and sorting
b) State one way in which a user may reverse the last action taken in a
spreadsheet package. (1 mk)
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 BASIC ALLOWANCES GROSS TAX NET
WORKE PER PAY PAY DEDUCTIONS PAY
D HOUR

2 KORIR 12 1500
3 ATIENO 28 650
4 MUTISO 26 450
5 ASHA 30 900
6 MAINA 18 350
7 WANJIKU 22.5 250
8 WANYAMA 24.5 250
9 OLESANE 17 180
10 MOSET 33 700
TOTALS
Use the following expressions to answer the questions that follow:
 Basic pay = hours worked x pay per hour

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 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 (1mk)
ii) E4 (1mk)
iii) F10 (1mk)
iv) G7 (1mk)
v) H5 (1mk)

d) i) State three ways of moving round the page in a Desktop Publishing

window. (3mks)

ii) State two ways on how information & Communication Technology (ICT)
can be used to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS (2mks)
19. a) Describe the following terms with reference to security of data: (1 mk)
i) Log files
ii) Firewalls (1 mk)

b) A student’ database comprises of students’ details table and fees received

table as shown below:

Students’ details table

Surname
Middle Name
First Name
Admission Number
Course

Fees Received table

Date
Amount
Receipt No.

i) State the primary key field for each table. (2mks)

ii) State the field, which should serve as the linking field for the two tables.
(2mks)
c) Describe the following terms with respect to computer security:

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i) Logic bombs (2mks)

ii) Physical security (2mks)
iii) Tapping (2mks)

d) List three functions of antivirus software. (3mks)

20. a) The diagram below shows four common network topologies A, B, C and
D.

i) Name the network topologies labeled a, B, C and D.

(4mks)

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A
B
C
D

ii) Explain what happens if server X in topology A fails. (1 mk)

iii) List two problems associated with network topology B. (2 mks)

iv) List two disadvantages associated with network topology D.

(2 mks)
b) Differentiate between Interment and World Wide Web: (2mks)

c) Describe the following network services and identify their applications.

i) Voice mail (2mks)

ii) Video conferencing (2 mks)
COMPUTER STUDIES
PAPER 1
(THEORY)
OCT/NOV/2023
2 ½ HOURS.

SECTION A (40 MKS)

Answer all the questions in this section in the spaces provided.
1. Describe the computer booting process. (2 mks)

2. State the functions of the following keys on the computer keyboard (2

mks)

a) Backspace

b) Insert (ins)

3. Jane has noticed the following problems in her computer keyboard (2mks)
 It is taking longer time to start up;
 It is often hanging;
 Applications are taking longer to load.

State three possible causes of these problems and how they can be solved (3mks)
4 a) Define authenticity as used in software selection (1mk)

b) List four ways of acquiring software in an organization (2mks)

5 some of the storage disk available are: zip disks, 3 ½ inch floppy disks, DVDs
and 5 ¼ inch floppy disks. Arrange these devices in ascending order of storage
capacity. (2mks)

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6. You have been asked to change your computer password. State a precaution you
need to take in order to avoid each of the following:

a) Forgetting the password (1mk)

b) Hacking (1mk)

7. State four benefits of using a computer in a school library (2 mks)

8. Using six bits, find the two’s complement of -2310. (4 mks)

9. Explain data series, axis and legends as used in spreadsheet charts. (3mks)
 Data

 Axis

 Legend
10. a) Describe the term data integrity. (2 mks)

b) State four situations in which data may lose integrity. (2mks)

11. State the function of each of the following:

a) Network interface card (1 mk)

b) Network protocol (1 mk)

c) Hub (1mk)

12. List four types of publications that can be designed by using desktop publishing
software. (2mks)

13. Differentiate between the following pair of terms as used in database design:

a) Input mask and design. (2 mks)

b) Table and query ( 2mks)

14. List four factors to be considered when purchasing an operating system. (2mks)

15 Write an algorithm to compute the area of a triangle. (2mks)

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

Answer question 16 and any other three questions from this section in the spaces
provided
16. Study the flowchart below and answer the questions that follow

i) Name the control structures used in the flowchart (2mks)

ii) Determine the values of M, N, P and Q. ( 4 mks)

M………………………….. N………………………..
P ………………………….. Q ………………………

iii) Write the pseudo code for the flowchart (7mks)

b) List four functions of an assembler (2 mks)

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17. Define the following web related terms:

i) Web browser (1mk)

ii) Hyperlink (1mk)

iii) Hypertext document (1mk)

b) List six activities performed on the web (3mks)

c) An institution has ten stand alone computers

i) Suggest with reasons the most appropriate topology required to
inter-connect the computers. (3mks)

ii) State the necessary steps required to connect the computers to the
internet. (4mks)
d) Below is an email address:

ggitau @moest. edu.ke

A B C

Name the parts labeled:

i)

ii)

iii)
18. A computer C directory has folders for form 1, form 2, Form 3 and form 4. Each
class has student’s folders labeled according to their number. The students create
their own folder for the subject the are studying based on the table shown below

Form 1 Form 2 Form 3 Form 4

OS SP Pr. ADB
WP DTP Internet
DB

a) Assuming there is one student per class, draw the corresponding directory
tree structure.
(6 mks)

b) i) a form four student wants to create a folder to store her project.

State the path for that project folder. (2 mks)

ii) Suggest how the student can ensure that:

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1. Work is not lost in case the hard disk fails. (1mk)

2. The project is not copied by other students. (1mk)

c) i). Other than I/O devices, list other three devices under the control of
the operating system. (3mks)

ii) Explain any one of the devices named in C (i) above (1mk)

d) Define the term trouble shooting (1mk)

19. A manager wishes to replace the current manual system with a computerized one
a) Describe three main areas that must be evaluated to justify the
replacement
(6mks)

b) List the three areas that would be considered in the requirements

specifications. (3mks)

c) State and explain three ways that can be followed to replace the current
system (6mks)

20. a) a head teacher keeps the following student details in a database: Name,
address, Town, Date of Birth, Marks scored, Fees paid.

i) Name the most appropriate primary key. Give a reason

(2mks)
ii) For each item in the student’s details above, indicate its most
appropriate data type as used in the database. (3mks)

iii) Explain why input screens are better data entry designs than

entering data directly to a table. (2mks)

b) List two career opportunities associated with databases. (2mks)

c) Distinguish between:
i) A table in word-processing application and a table in a database
application (2mks)

ii) Mouse pointer and insertion point. (2mks)

d) Outline the steps to be followed in order to merge cells in a word

processing table. (2mks)

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SECTION II
MARKING SCHEMES

COMPUTER STUDIES
PAPER 1
(THEORY)
OCT. /NOV 1998
2 ½ HOURS

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

1. Using a program flowchart explain the “WHILE …Do” interaction
construction. (3mks)

The statements in the loop are repetitively executed while the logical expression is
true. Control will leave the loop only when the while statement is executed and
the logical expression is false at that time.

2. Explain two uses of an uninterruptible power supply unit. (2mks)

- Regulate the flow of power

- Store power shortly after power failure

3. Explain the meaning of BACKUP. (2mks)

- This is storage of a copy of program or data in another place to be used if the
original is lost or damaged.
4. Define an operating system (2mks)
-This is part of the computing system that controls all the hardware and all the
software.
5. State two advantages of electronic spreadsheets over manual worksheets.
(2mks)
-It enables automatic recalculation
-Editing is easy
-Analysis of data is easy due to the use of formulas
-Work is neat

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6. State two roles of a system analyst. (2mks)

- Plans and designs a new system
- Coordinates schedules with a number of people e.g. programmers, managers,
users etc.
-Defines the objectives of the system
-Carry out a feasibility study and write a report of a proposed new system
-Studies the existing system
-Analyses the system to establish its strengths and weaknesses
-Prepare a report describing the existing system

7. Define a primary key field (3mks)

-This is a field that is used to distinguish one record from another.
-A candidate key that is selected to identify all the attributes uniquely.

8. State three functions of a database management system. (3 mks)

 -It makes it easy to access information
 -It stores large amount of data with many types of records occurring many times
 -Helps in establishing relations between data items
 -Offers many different user requirements
 -Enables flexible editing features
 -Offers data storage and retrieval
 -Offers authentication services
 -Offers transaction support
 -Offers authentication services
 -Offers integrity services
 -Offers support for data communication
 -Offers utility services e.g. import/export/ statistical analysis e.t.c.

9. a) define local area network. (2mks)

b) State any two components of a local area network (2mks)

- file server
-Printer server
-communication controller (software)
-workstation or terminals
-Network interface cards (NIC)
-Network cables
-networking accessories e.g. accessories e.g. ports
10. a) State two types of computer output devices. (2mks)
-Screen (monitor)
-Printer
-Speakers
-Plotter
-Micro forms

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b) State a situation where real time processing would be appropriate.

(1 mk)
- In hospitals
- In Banks (ATMs)
- In Chemical plants
11. State three functions of the central processing Unit (CPU). (3 mks)
-To perform all the processing including all computations
-To control sequence of operations
-To give commands to all parts of the computer system
-To control the use of the main memory storage to store data and instruction.
12. a) Explain the difference between a system software and application
programs. (2 mks)
-Application software handles the job of the end user
-system software helps in controlling and assisting in performance
of the computer system

b) Explain the difference between digital and analogue computers.

(2mks)
-Digital computers represent data inform of discrete values i.e. in binary
Form
-Analogue computers represent numbers in form of strengths of electric
current Output is in form of smooth graphs.
13. a) Explain the difference between Random Access Memory and Read
Only Memory (2mks)
- RAM offers temporary storage of data and programs
One can read from it and also write to it
- ROM provides permanent or semi-permanent storage only. Contents can
- be read but not rewritten during normal computer operations.

b) State in which memory the monitor program would be stored (1mk)

-ROM
14. State the two requirements of computer program testing (2 mks)
-Compiler
-Test data
15. For each of the following file organization methods, state an appropriate storage
medium.
a) Serial- magnetic tape
b) Random- Compact disk/Magnetic disk (2mks)

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SECTION B (60 MKS)

16. Students sat for a test in computer studies. The table below gives the marks obtained
and the number of students obtaining the marks.
Write a program in a structured high level language to calculate the mean of the result.
The formula for the mean is given in the table below. (15 mks)

Marks obtained (x) Number of students (F)

11 1

16 2
21 6
26 5
31 10
36 6
41 2
46 2
51 1
56 1

Mean =  fx

f

Formula for the mean:

Program Mean (inpt, output):

Var
Stno, mar, Total, I, n, f, sum: integer;
Mean, average: real;
Begin
Writeln (‘Enter the number of entries”);
Readln (n);
Sum: =0;
F: 0;
For i: = n do
Begin
Writeln (‘enter the students Mark followed by the frequency’);
Readln (mark *stno;
Sum: =mark *stno;
Sum: =sum +Total;
F: f + Total;
F: f+ stno;
End;
AVERAGE: =; AVERAGE: 5: 4);
Readln
End.

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17. a) Briefly explain the following terms:

i) Cell – Intersection of row and column in a spreadsheet
ii) Range – A group of cells
iii) Label- text with no numerical value.
iv) Value- constant, a number value
- content of a cell
v) function- A computation that is predefined by an electronic spreadsheet

b) A spreadsheet has the following entries:

A B C D E F G
1 PROJECTED
BUDGET
2 Percent 10.0%
3
4 ITEM 1996 1997 1998
5 Food 56,000
6 Clothes 24,000
7 Fees 50,000
8 Transport 20,000
9 Entertainment 15,000
10
Provide a formula for cell C% that can be copied onto cell D5 and the reange C6..
D10 to give a uniform increase of 10% of the previous year’s value for each item.
(3mks)
=$ B2$ * C5

c) State two advantages of word processors over manual typewriters (2mks)

-formatting and editing is easy
-has punctuation and style checking capability
-Allows one to custom document printing needed
-Has built in dictionary for spell checking
-Offer alternative words. (Thesaurus)

d) List three formatting features of word processor (3mks)

- Moving and copying text
- Cursor movement
- Find and replace
- Inserting and overtyping
-Deleting text
-Overtyping

e) Explain the difference between the printing of multiple copies and the
printing of multiple pages

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-Multiple copies refers to one document repeated several times

-Multiple pages refers to different pages being printed

18 a) State any three reasons why people may resist the introduction of
computers at their place of work (3 mks)
o Losing their job (retrenchment)
o Fear that their juniors may become their seniors i.e. change in power
structure
o Some people are not ready to be retrained
o Fear that information will now be available to everyone

b) Explain the difference between data privacy and data security.

(4mks)
- Data privacy is where personal information, which one would not like to
share with others, raises concern
- Data security is prevention of unauthorized access to information.

c) State two operational methods of an organization ensuring of data.

(2mks)
-Physical measures e.g. lacking
-Access code e.g. passwords.
-Data encryption i.e. data is jumbled up before transmission and decoded
at the receiving end.
d) Explain the use of computers in health care (6mks)

-Research i.e. when doing research about medicine

-Diagnosis e.g. passwords
-Administration e.g. staff and patient records
-Treatment
-observation

19. a) i)Define normalization. (2mks)

-This is a step-by –step process of removing redundancies and
creating table s that do not have repeating groups.
ii) State three objectives of normalization. (3mks)
-Minimizing data redundancy.
-Establishing dependences between items and grouping them in a most
effective manner
-Ensures data independence to the extent one would wish.
b) i) What is a distributed system? (3mks)
-This is a decentralized way of data processing. Databases are shared.
ii) State any three advantages of distributed systems. (3mks)
-Databases are shared
-There is no need of a big central computer
-Processing is fast since people process their own work.

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c) State any four criteria for choosing an operating system (4 mks)

- Hardware design and basic design of the computer.
-Security
-Application intended for the computer
-Method of communicating with the computer i.e. many or few peripherals
-Efficiency

20. a) Match the computer generation with the technology used to make the
Processor
Generation Technology

Third Thermionic valves

First Integrated circuits

Fourth Transistors

Second large-scale integration

(4mks)

b) Draw a block diagram showing the functional units of computer

hardware.
Name the units. (6mks)

c) i) list three types of secondary storage media. (3mks)

-Magnetic tape
-Magnetic disk
-Optical disk

ii) State one advantage and one disadvantage of a laser printer

(2 mks)
Advantages
-It’s fast
-It’s not noisy

Disadvantage
 Can not do multiple printing.
 It’s very costly

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COMPUTER STUDIES
(THEORY)
Oct./Nov. 1999
2 ½ hours

Marking scheme

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

1. State any three functions of a computer (3 mks)

-Storage
-Processing
-Data capture e.g. scanning
-Communication e.g. email
2. Give two types of storage devices used in a computer giving an example of
each.
-Primary storage devices e.g. RAM, ROM
-Secondary storage devices e.g. hard disk, Magnetic Disk, CD-ROM drive
3. Give any three precautionary measures considered to ensure the safety of
computers in a computer laboratory. (3 mks)

- Burglar proof doors

- Avoid computers in basements to safeguard against flooding
- Constant cleaning to minimize dust
(3 mks)
4. Define
a) File- a group of related records
b) record- a group of related fields
c) Field- the individual units that make up a record e.g. name, NSSF
No. Gender (2 mks)

5. List two features of word processor (2mks)

- Word Wrap
- Spelling and grammar
- Editing
- Formatting
6. Differentiate between the hardware and software components off a computer
giving an example of each.
Hardware – the physical parts of a computer e.g. Mouse, keyboard
Software – the programs/ Instructions in a computer

7. What is program documentation? Give two examples of program

documentations. (3 mks)
This refers to information that serves to explain the purpose of a program.

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Documentation may be internal – in the form of comments and appropriate named

variables and constants e.t.c. or may be extended in the form of a written
description and structure diagram. E.g. user oriented and program oriented.

8. Give two differences between high-level and low-level languages.(2 mks)

High Level Low level
1. Instructions are written in 1. Instructions are written in m
English like syntax code or near machine code.
2. Easy to learn 2. Difficult to learn
3. Requires compilation 3. Does not need translation
Except in assembly language
9. Worksheet cells are referenced using the column letter and row number e.g.
D2 is cell in column D and row 2.
Use the sample worksheet provided to answer the questions below

a) Write down the data type that is stored in cell C5 (1mk)

-what cell contains the data items representing transport for the month of
February? (1mk)

b) What cell contains the data items representing transport for the
month of February? –c6
(1mk)

c) Write down the formula that may be used to compute the total in cell
f6. (1mk)
-=sum (B6: E6)
10. Name any two types of graphs that are supported by spreadsheets.(2 mks)

- Pie charts
- Line graphs
- Bar graphs

11. What is relational database? (2mks)

- a database where records are structured within tables (relations)

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12. As regards to communication within a computer network, what do you

understand by the following terms: (2mks)

i) Point –to-point – a dedicated line of communication if first established before

communication can take place

ii) Broadcast – information is sent any device on the network can receive it e.g. Hub.

13. Give any two types of data entries that may be input into a worksheet cell.
(2 mks)
-Numeric (Number)
-text
-formulae
-date

14. Give any tow functions of a System Analyst

-Studies current system
-Gives proposals on new systems
-assists to design and implement new systems

15. List any three program control structures used in programming. (3 mks)

-sequencing

-Decision

Iteration

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

Answer question 16 and any other three questions

16. The roots of the equation ax2 +bx + c= 0 are by the formula

-b  b2 +4ac
X= and a # 0
2a

a) Draw a flowchart to compute the roots of the equation. (10 mks)

b) Using the flow-chart write a program that will compute the roots and
if b2 – 4ac is negative, the program should display the message
“NEGATIVE (5mks)

Program roots (input, output)

{a program to calculate the roots of a quadratic equation var
A, b, C: INTEGER:
X, y: real;
Begin
Writeln (‘enter the values of a, b and c’):
Readln (a, b, c):

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17. A multinational organization has offered to donate computers to your school. The
Board of governors has requested you to advise on the operating system to be
used by providing answer the following questions.

a) What is an operating system? (1mk)

-system software that controls the computer system (hardware and other
application software)

b) State and briefly explain an two types of operating systems. (6mks)

- Single uses/single tasking- support one use at a time and one program at
a time e.g. Dos

c) Briefly explain any four functions of an operating system. (8mks)

- Task scheduling, arranging and organizing of tasks (jobs 0 under a
system of priority.
-Interrupt handling, a computer instruction that momentarily stops the
normal operation of a routine. The operation can usually be resumed later
from the interruption
o I/O management
18. i) State one area where computers are used. (2 mks)
- Medicine
- Industries
- Retails stores
- Research

ii) Give any two advantages of using computers in this area(4 mks)
Any two areas in any of the above areas

b) Explain the effect of computers technology in the following areas:

i) Job opportunities

- Creation of new jobs in such areas such as networking, database management.

- Loss of jobs for employees with routine jobs and repetitive tasks.
ii) Jon Skills
- new skills (experts will be required therefore employee training will be
required
iii) Communication
- Easier to communication e.g. email, chatting (9 mks)

19. A computer Vendor has recommended the use of a computer database to your
school for student information

a) Explain to the Board of Governors what a database is an its functions

(5mks)

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A database is a shared collection of logically related data (and a

description of this data) designed to meet the information needs of an
organization.

- The collection is integrated to reduce data replication

- The collection contains its description called schemas
- The collection is managed in such a way that it can fulfill the different needs
of its users.

b) Give two examples of database systems (2mks)

Billing system
Education Management system
Hospital system
Etc.
c) Briefly explain any two advantages and two disadvantages of using a
database (8 mks)

Advantages
- control of data redundancy
- Promotes data consistency
- There is sharing of data
- Improved security
- Increased concurrency

Disadvantages
- Complexity
- Extra cost of hardware and software

20. a) What is a computer network topology?

- Arrangement of computers on a network

b) Using appropriate diagrams, show any three computer network

topologies
(9mks)

c) Briefly explain two reasons why organizations need to network their

computers. (4 mks)
- Sharing of information and other resources like printers, internet
- Fault tolerance. It is safer to have several copies/services of work spread in a
network
- Economy of scale. Cheaper to have a network than a centralized system
- Communication e.g. email, chatting etc.

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- Scalability, it is cheaper to add computers on a network than to do an

upgraded

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COMPUTER STUDIES
(THEORY)
OCT. /NOV. 2000
2 ½ HOURS

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

Answer all the questions in this section.

1. Write the following abbreviations in full. (3 mks)

i) BCD -Binary Coded Decimal

ii) ASCII -American Standard Code for information Interchange

iii) EBCDIC -Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code

2. Define the term array as used in computer programming. (2mks)

-An array is a structure, which holds many variables, all of the same data type.
The array consists of so may element, each element of the array capable of storing
one piece of data (variable)

3. Suggest how computers may in future be made more users friendly for persons that
are: (2 mks)
a) Blind – computers that respond to touch and sound (voice)/Braille
keyboard
b) Without hands – computers that respond to voice

4. State three advantages of computer networking

i) Sharing of resources/information (computers, printers, modem, internet
etc)
ii) Provision of local facilities without the loss of central control
iii) Even distribution of work, processing loads etc.
iv) Stored risk and mutual support

5. Name six steps in program development cycle in their logical sequence.

(3mks)

i) Problem definition
ii) Feasibility study
iii) System design
iv) System design
v) Programming
vi) System implementation and h/w configuration
vii) Operation and maintenance

6. State two methods of minimizing dust in a computer laboratory (2mks)

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i) Constant cleaning and mopping

ii) Use a carpeted floor (gathers dust slowly and does not raise dust)
iii) Users to remove shoes. This ensures that no dust is carried to the room.

7. Differentiate between primary memory and secondary memory. (2mks)

Primary memory refers to the storage capacity of the CPU. It holds data and
instructions currently in use. Also stores immediate results from processing
waiting transfer to the output devices. Primary memory is volatile, i.e contents
held transfer to the output devices. Primary memory is volatile, i.e. contents held
are lost on power loss.

Secondary memory or backing storage refers to the storage of programs and

data files, not currently being operated on. Secondary memory is non-volatile or
permanent, i.e. Contents held are not lost on power loss.
8. List the steps that you would use to correct wrongly spelt words in a
document using the spell-checking feature.

i) Start the spell checker e.g. f7 or click on tolls the spelling and grammar

ii) Use the spelling and grammar dialogue box to adjust the words as you
wish

iii) Continue the process till the whole document is spell checked.

9. Differentiate between single-user and multi-user operating systems giving an

example of each. (3 mks)

Single user O/s – allows one user to operate one program at a time in an
Interactive conversational mode e.g. MS-DOS
Multi-user O/S – Computer system can be accessed by several users or
Applications simultaneously.

10. Optical Mark Reader (OMR) (2 mks)

-An OMR is able to sense marks on a special form in certain places. Application
include multiple choice answers sheets, enrolment forms etc.

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11. In the following flowchart, what will be the value of the sum when printed?
Show how you arrive at your answer

12. Distinguish between system software and application software. (2mks)

Systems software- Manages the operation of the computer itself. Examples are
operation system, Assemblers, compilers

Application software – handles the needs of the end-user e.g. general purpose
packages like word-processors, spreadsheets etc.

13. Explain any three of the terms: Creating, editing, printing and saving as used
in word- processing. (3mks)
Creating –starting a new document
Editing- altering contents of a document
Printing- getting a hard copy of the typed document
Saving – storing a document on secondary media

14. List three file organization methods in a computer. (3mks)

Serial (heap)
Sequential
Random
Indexed Sequential

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15. What is the use of the search and replace future in a word-processor. (2mks)

i) To locate a particular word or character or text

ii) To locate and replace the occurrence of a particular word/text or character
with another

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

Answer Question 16 and Any Three Other Questions

16. a program is required for reading in a student’s name and 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 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 (15 mks)

Program marks (input, ouput);

Const
n=2;
var
stno, mark 1, mark2, total, i,f, sum: integer;
mean, average : real;
Name, commet: s string;
Begin
Writeln (Enter the student Name’)
Readln (Name)
Writeln; (‘enter the two students Mark’s):
Readln (Mark 1, Mark 2)
Average: = SUM/n;
Writeln;
If (average > =70) then
Comment: = ‘Good’
Else
Comment: = ‘Poor’,

Writeln (‘NAME SUBJECT 1 SUBJECT 2 AVERAGE Comment’);

Write (name: 6, Mark 1: 8, Mark 2:12, Average: 15:1, Comment: 14):
Readln
End.

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17. a) What is meant by data communication in a computer network?

(2mks)

o Movement of computer information from one point to another by

means of electrical or optional transmission system. Such systems are
often referred to as data communication networks
b) State what is meant by each of the following transmission media and
give one advantage and one disadvantage for each.
i) Twisted pair cables. (3mks)
-Two single wires, each encased in colour coded plastic insulation, are
twisted together to form a pair.

Advantages
i) Low cost compared to coaxial and fibre optic
ii) Offers greater security than radiated media

Disadvantages
i) Susceptible to EMI from nearby circuits (cross talk)
ii) Can not transmit over long distances
iii) Data transmission is slow compared to fibre and coaxial

ii) Coaxial cables

-Consists of 4 parts: an inner conductor, which carries the signal, a
protective plastic coating, shielding and outer insulation.
Advantages
i) Secure in terms of data transmission
ii) Is not affected by EmI

Disadvantages
i) Can only transmit data over short distances

iii) Optical fibre cables

Cable consists of thin strands of transparent and translucent glass through
which light/laser/LED is transmitted. The light is guided through the
cable by internal reflection.
Advantages
i) Expensive to implement

c) List four network elements in a local area network (4mks)

i) A server
ii) Workstations
iii) Software/protocols
iv) Cabling

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18. 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 took a cup of tea and two bananas. Tea, sausages
and bananas cost Kshs 10, 15 and 5 respectively.

By naming columns A, B, C … and rows 1, 2, 3 …………….

(a) Construct a worksheet showing the above information (7mks)

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

(i) Total expenditure by David
= C6 * $C$3 + D6*$D$3 + E6*$E$3 (4mks)

(ii) Total number of sausages taken (2mks)

= sum (C4: C7)

(iii) The cost of the cheapest item (2mks)

= Min (C3: E3)

19. (a) What are computer viruses?

A computer program designed specifically to damage other programs or
cause irregular behaviour. A virus itself from one computer to another

(b) (i) State two ways through which computer viruses may be controlled
(2mks)
- Using an up to date antivirus
- Prude management policies & procedures e.g. restricting the movement of
diskettes.

(ii) Explain how each of the two ways stated in b (i) above assist in
controlling computer viruses. (2mks)

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- Antivirus software that is resident in the computers memory will detect a

virus before it can affect the system. However the antivirus must be
continuously updated to be effective.
- Good management policies will ensure that the movement or transfer of
virus programs is reduced to a minimum. Policies include:
 Restriction of movement of diskette
 Write protecting diskettes
 New software on disk should be evaluated
 Having a fire wall

(c) Define each of the following computer terminologies (3mks)

(i) Byte- a combination of consecutive bits typically 8 bits
(ii) Bit- smallest unit of data representation. A binary digit, 0 or 1
(iii) word- A group of bits treated as separately unit of data by the control unit
is called a WORD. WORDS may be sub divided into bytes, which
normally correspond to character.

(d) Convert the hexadecimal number FCI to its binary equivalent (6mks)

20. (a) A firm intends to purchase new software. List three items that should
accompany the software (3mks)
(i) Installation guide
(ii) Service/ maintenance contract
(iii) A reference Manual (Documentation)
(iv) A license
(v) A user guide
(vi) Training

(b) State and explain three ways that computer technology could make office
work more efficient. (6mks)
(i) Powerful easy to use software enables employees to analyze large amounts
of data at their desks at high speeds.
(ii) Accuracy- Once fed with the correct data and instruction given a computer
never makes errors normally.
(iii) Diligence- a computer never gets tired or bored if it has to do the same job
over and over again.
(iv) Automation – Once an instruction has been give, a computer can carry on
its job automatically till it is complete.

(c) Explain the meaning of each of the following computer crimes:

(i) Hacking- the invasion of the privacy of a system
(ii) Fraud- refers to the use of computer technology to falsify records, steal
money etc.
(iii) Piracy- This is the illegal acquisition and distribution of computer material
purporting it to be original. Piracy is therefore a violation of copyright
laws

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COMPUTER STUDIES
Oct/Nov. 2001
2 ½ Hours
Paper 1
(THEORY)

SECTION A. (40 MARKS)

Answer all the questions in this section
1. Compare the two types of diskettes used in microcomputers in terms of
physical size and densities.
- 3 ½ Floppy diskette, smaller in size hold more data
- 5 ¼ floppy diskette, larger in size, holds less data
2. Why is it necessary to have a UPS in a computer laboratory?
- To regulate amount a voltage entering computer equipment
- To supply equipment with power temporarily while normal power is
not available

3. (a) Explain what is meant by batch processing (1mks)

- Transaction are accumulated over a period of time and then processed
at a pre-specified time to produce a batch of output

(b)Give one advantage and one disadvantage of batch processing (2mks)

Advantages
- Simple to develop
- Timing of the reports is not necessary

Disadvantages
- Time lag between origination of the transactions and the information
availability
- Late information is not suitable for situations where instant decisions
are required
-
4. List any four high level programming languages (2mks)
- Visual basic - Basic
- Pascal - Java
(Any programming language that uses English like syntax)

5. A 3 by 4 matrix M is to be added to another 3 by 4 matrix array N so as to

give a third 3 by 4 matrix array P. Using a high level programming language,
write a program segment that assigns the sum of M and N to P.
Program add matrix (input, Output);
Type
Matrix = Array (14, 13) of integer;
Var
A, B, C: Matrix;
I, J: Integer;

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Producer add (Var X, Y, Z: Matrix);

Begin (add)
For I: to 3 do
Begin
For J: 1 to 4 do
Z [l,J]: X [l, J] + Y[l,J];
End
End; {add}
6. The first column in the table below contains the formulae as stored into the
cell F10 of a spreadsheet. Enter the formulae, as they would appear when
copied to the cell M20 of the same spreadsheet.

Formula in F10 Formula in M20

= D10 * E10 =K20*L20
=A$25 =H$25
=$D$13 =$D$13

7. Give three advantages of separating data from the application that use the
data in database design (3mks)
- There is data independence i.e. one can make changes to the
underlying table structures without changing the end- user’s views
- There is improving security and privacy. The end user only sees what
is relevant
- There is improved productivity in from data independence
8. Explain the impact of information on organizations in each of the following
areas:
(a) Competition
- An organization that has access to quick and relevant information will
obviously be ahead of its competitors and can therefore strategize itself
accordingly. Information is a powerful tool in a competitive environment
(b) Pace of growth
- Organizations need to advertise themselves therefore information is a very
important ingredient to their pace of growth. An organization that
advertises itself accordingly will be known and will therefore be ahead of
its competitors.

9. (a) List any four tasks that an electronic spreadsheet should be able to
perform other than calculations.
- Production of graphs
- Automatic recalculation
- Projection of growth curves through what if analysis
- Sorting of data
(b) Explain what is meant by automatic recalculation as used in a
spreadsheet

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- Feature of electronic spreadsheet system which runs anytime a cell is

updated, causing all formulas, functions and macros which depend on that
cell to automatically update their computations

10. Describe the functions of the following computer hardware components:

(a) Mouse
- This is an input device that works in conjunction with a pointer on the
screen. It is used for selecting and other input functions.
(b) Scanner
- This is an input device that works with Optical Character Reader
Technology to capture data (text and images)

11. (a) State two differences between Disk Operating System (DOS) and
WINDOWS operating system.
- DOS is command driven while Windows is GUI driven
- DOS is difficult to learn and use while Windows is easier to learn and
use.
(b) (i) Define the term application Software
- Software with a specific function, such as word processor or game. It is
meant to benefit the end user.
(ii) Give one example of application software (1mk)
- Word processor e.g. Ms Word
- Spreadsheet e.g. Ms Excel
12. (a) Give one difference between internal and external commands in Disk
Operating System (2mks)
- Internal DOS commands are part of a file called command that
stays resident in memory (RAM)
- External DOS commands are stored on secondary storage and are
only loaded onto RAM when required
(b) Name two DOS commands that may be used for checking disk
errors (1mk)
CHKDSK, SCANDISK
13. Explain how a paragraph can be removed form one place to another
in word- processing (2mks)
- Highlight/ select the paragraph
- Click on edit then cut
- Click on the new area then click on edit then paste
14. Define the term structured programming (2mks)
- A program is broken down into smaller sections called modules. The
modules are linked together.

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

Answer questions 15 and other three questions from this section
15. (a) What is meant by each of the following terms:
(i) Pseudo code (1½Marks)
- Pseudo code (or structured English) describes module design in words
using syntax like programming language. It aims at proving programmers
with clear and unambiguous process specification.

(ii) Flowchart
- A flowchart is a diagrammatic or pictorial representation that illustrates
the sequence of operations to be performed to get the solution of a
problem.
(b) A program is required to list the first 1000 numbers in the series 2, 4, 6, 8,
10 ……. Draw a flowchart and write a program that can be carry out
this task (12mks)

16. 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
types (5mks)

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Field Data type

Make Text
Date of manufacture Date
Colour Text
Cost Currency or Number

(b) Explain how you index the data such that cars of the same make and
colours are together. (2mks)
Make the primary key in the main file be the same as that in the indexing
file

(c) Write statements that can be used to select cars of the colour green
(2mks)
Make Date of Colour Cost
manufacture

Expression Green

(d) Give an instruction that would:

(e) (i) Select cars whose lie between 500,000/= and 1,000,000/=( 3mks)
- Between 500,000 and 1,000, 000

(ii) Determine the average cost of all cars (3mks)

- Average {cost}
17. (a) The diagram below represents the essential features of a computer
system. Study the diagram and answer the questions that follow:

A B Output device

Secondary Storage

(i) Name the components: (4mks)

A. Input
B. Control Unit
C Arithmetic Logic Unit
D Primary storage

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(ii) On The diagram above, indicate the direction of data flow using arrows
(3mks)

(b) Name the three types of buses in a computer system (3mks)

- Data Bus
- address bus
- Control Bus

(c) Explain how the CPU registers may be used to carry out a basic calculation
such as (4mks)
2+7=9
- The data 2 and 7 are fetched from memory (RAM) and placed in the Data
register (DR) via the memory Buffer Register and the Address register.
- The instruction + (add) is also fetched from memory (RAM) and placed in
the instruction register (IR) via the address register.
- The IR decodes the instruction and sends out the necessary command to
process the data in the DR.
- Results are then taken back to the RAM

(d) Name two computers output devices (1mk)

Monitors, Speaker, Printer
18. (a) State three ways in which computer technology may affect employment
patterns in organizations
- Job replacement
- Job displacement
- Job creation

(b) State and explain three reasons why the employments patterns are
affected
(6mks)
- Job replacement- Manual jobs can be done by a computer
- Job displacement- Some employees will find themselves being taken
to other departments
- Job creation- Skills will be required for IT personnel in such areas as
networking and database management.
(c) Suggest three strategies that can be employed to manage resistance to
change (3mks)
- Involve the employees concerned when trying to introduce a new
system
- Train the employees in the new system
- Inform the employees in organization plans
- Introduce the new changes in planed order e.g. in phases, in pilot states
etc.

(d) Give three advantages of computerization in an organization

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- IT may cut down on costs e.g. labour cost, storage etc

- IT provides timely and accurate reports that are crucial for decision
making
- IT provides for easy management of an organization’s data and
information e.g. east retrieval of data
- IT may result in overall increase in productivity

19. (a) In a computer based information system, state the purpose of the
following files and give one example where such a file may re required
in a school (8mks)
(i) Report life
- A summary file from the main file

(ii) Backup file

- Backup also called a security file – are copies of files kept in case the
original master file is damaged or lost and cannot be used.

(iii) Reference file

This is a file with a reasonable amount of permanency. Examples of data
used for reference purposes are price list, tables of rate of pay, names and
addresses.

(iv) Sort file

This is a temporary file that holds records organized in a particular order

(b) State three precautions that should be taken to ensure that diskettes
are well stored (3mks)
- Avoid physical damage
- Avoid bringing diskette close to magnetic fields
- Write protect to prevent accidental infection by viruses
- Do not eject from computer when the access light is still on

(c) Distinguish between “serial” and “indexed sequential” file

organization methods (2mks)
A heap file, sometimes called a pile or serial file is the simplest type of file
organization, records are placed in the file in the same order as they were
inserted
An index structure is associated with a search key and contains records
consisting of the key value and the address of the logical record
A sorted data file with a primary index is called an indexed sequential file
The file containing the logical records is called the data file and the file
containing the index records is called the index file. The values in the
index file are ordered according to the indexing field.

(d) Distinguishing between binary and octal number systems and give an
example of each (2mks)

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- Binary number consists of the digits 0 and 1 e.g. 1000112

- Octal numbers consist of eight digits, 0,1,2,3,4,5,6 and 7 e.g. 1278

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COMPUTER STUDIES
Paper 1
(Theory)
2 ½ hours
2002

Section A (40 marks)

Answer all the questions in this section
1. Describe the purpose of each of the following computer functional units
(a) Control- Essentially governs all the computer activities and monitors the
execution of programs.
(b) Storage – To holds internally before and after processing. Divided into two
i.e. primary and secondary
Primary holds data and information being handled by the CPU. Secondary
stores data and information in a more permanent form

2. Explain how each of the following would affect the suitability of a room for
use as a computer room. (2mks)
(a) Burglar proofed door- enhances the security system as it prevents
Unauthorized users from entering

(b) Availability of taps and sinks in the room – Could be detrimental since water
can cause damage to computer equipment (3mks)

3. State three data representation codes used in computers

ASCII- American Standard Coded for information interchange
BCD – Binary coded Decimal
EBCDIC – Extended Binary Coded Decimal interchange Code

4. State two types of documentation in program development and give the

purpose of each (4mks)
User Oriented – Includes format of input required e.g. Source documents,
how to produce outputs, how to run the program etc
Operator oriented – Description of main action of the programs file
specifications, restrictions, limitations, text references.
Program Oriented - Program design using structure charts/ flow charts testing
procedures (including test data and expected output)
Identification- Includes of program, short statement of its functions,
author, date written language used and version and
hardware requirements.

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5. Suppose an element array A contains the values 9, 12, 17, 7 and 20. Find the
value in A after executing the loop below:
Repeat for k= 1 to 4
Set A {k + 1} = A {k}
{End of loop}

First time A {2}: = 9

Second time A {3}: = 9
Third Time A {4}:= 9
Fourth time A {5}: = 9

6. State any three activities that occur in a program compilation process

(3mks)
- Program code converted into machine language
- Program is debugged (checked for errors)
- Executable format of the file is created
7. The Formula = k20 + p $18 was typed in cell L21 and then copied to cell M24
of a spreadsheet. Write the formula as it appears in cell M24 (2mks)
= L23 + Q$18
8. State two ways in which a computer may be used in efficient running of a
hospital
(2mks)
- storing patient records
- Monitoring patients e.g. babies in incubators, ICUs etc
- Diagnosis, data from sensors attached to the patient can be fed into a
computer e.g. in heart ailments, CAT and MRI scans
- Medical training e.g. using simulations software to show how a body part
works
9. List three disadvantages of using traditional file management method
(3mks)
- Separation and isolation of data
- Duplication of data- same data stored in different departments/ locations
- Data dependence – when a change occurs it must be made in all other
related departments that it affects.
- Incompatible file formats since data is stored in several places

10. Give one disadvantages of a single processor multi- user system (1mk)
- The processor gets overloaded due to several time slices

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11. List three differences between a microcomputer and a super – computer

(3mks)
Microcomputers Supercomputers
1. Small in size 1. Huge in size
2. Low speed compared to 2. Fast processing capacity
Supercomputers
3. Intended for use at home or 3. Mainly used in scientific and
Offices for normal application engineering application e.g.
Like WP weather forecasting
4. Low cost compared to supercomputers 4. Very expensive

12. State and explain two reasons why word processing is one of the most
common applications of many computer users.
- Text can be edited (changed) on screen and reprinted if mistakes are made
- WP has many features which can be used to format the document to look
presentable
- WP has a spell checker that makes it easy to correct and insert alternate words

13. Write – 1 in twos compliment notation in byte form (4mks)

110 = 12 in byte form it becomes 000000012
One’s complement is 111111102
Two’s complement is 11111112

14. Explain the following input/ output terms as used in computer systems. Give
an example for each (4mks)
(a) Read- get data from memory e.g. opening a file
(b) Write – put data into memory e.g. saving

15. State two disadvantages of networking

- The cost of installation is very high
- A network manager is required to run the system
- If the server fails, all the workstation could be affected
- Since data is shared, there is greater need for security

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

Answer question 16 and any other three questions from this section

16. The following flowchart can be used to list the odd numbers between 0 and
100
Start

Odd=1

Write Odd
Odd=Odd+2

Odd<99

Stop

(a) Write a program segment for the flowchart using a high level language (7mks)
Program list
Var
Odd: integer
Begin
Odd; = 1,
Repeat
Write (odd);
Odd: odd + 2
Until odd>99;
Readln
End.

(b) What would be the output from the flowchart if the statement in the decision
box is changed to:
i. odd = 100 program will run continuously without stopping
ii. Odd <100- only 1 will be displayed
iii. Odd>100 – 1- 99 will be displayed

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(c) Modify the flowchart so that it prints only the sum of the odd numbers
between o and 100 (5mks)

17. (a) List five precautions that can be taken to protect data stored in diskettes
(5mks)
- Avoid keeping in places of high temperatures
- Avoid folding/ crushing/ dropping/ (any physical damage)
- Avoid bringing close to magnet/ electrical fields
- Keep in disk bank
- Write protect
- Keep away from dust
- Do not remove while the disk drive is active
- Install an up to date antivirus

(b) State and explain two precautions that be taken to help recover data lost
through accidental erasure
- Keeping backup copies
- Use of recovery tools e.g. unformat/ undelete

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(c) Describe each of the following data processing methods (6mks)

(i) Batch processing – transactions are collected and the processed at a pre-
specified time. Once processing begins no amendments can be made.
(ii) Distributed processing- Data processing where computations and data
storage are spread out geographically among the computers on a network
(iii) Multiprogramming- Running of two or more programs simultaneously

18. (a) (i) What is a computer keyboard? (1mk)

- Input device with keys foe keying in data in the form of characters
- List four types of keys found on a computer keyboard. Give an example of
each. (4mks)
Alphanumeric
Function
Numeric key pad
Special character
Cursor control

(b) give four differences between present days’ computers and the older
generation of computers (4mks)

Present day computers older day Computers

- Smaller in size - Bigger in size
- Faster processing speed - Slower processing speed
- Higher storage capacities - Smaller storage capacities
(RAM and Hard Disk) (RAM and Hard Disk)
- Lower cost - High cost

(c) (i) State three advantages and one disadvantage of using a laser printer
Advantages
- Fast
- Quiet
- Quality printout
- More fonts
Disadvantages
- Can not do carbon printing
- Can not use continuous sheet
- High cost of purchase

(ii) Distinguish between a line printer and page printer

- A page printer prints one page at a time while a line printer prints
one line at a time.

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19. (a) Identify three public Universities and three National polytechnics in
Kenya where further computer training is offered, In case state the highest
level of qualification that can be acquired in computer training.

Nairobi University - Masters

Kenyatta University - Degree
Moi University - Degree
JKUAT - Masters
Maseno - Degree
Egerton - Degree
Kenya polytechnic - Diploma
Mombasa polytechnic - Higher Diploma
Kisumu polytechnic - Diploma
Eldoret polytechnic - Diploma

(b) Distinguish between “job replacement” and job displacement” in

references to computerization
Job replacement – loss of job
Job displacement – Change of job but same company

(c) Give four reasons why a firm may decide to computerize its operation
- High quality products/ services
- Better decision- making
- Cut down on costs/ labour
- Compete effectively
- Timely computations of tasks
- Enjoy benefits of global markets
- Sharing information
- Reduce redundancy

(d) An individual has a right to demand guarantee to privacy of personal

information stored on a computer

Give three such types of information

- Bank accounts records
- Income tax records
- Medical records
- Legal records
- Bio- data
- Property records
20. (a) Give three comparisons of the traditional file management method of
typing a document on a typewriter against using a word processor ( 6mks)

Word Processor
- Less dependent on paper
- Much economical in storage

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- Easy/ fast to retrieve

- Easy to mail
- Easier to edit
- Has mail merge and other facilities

(b) (i) Define the term spreadsheet (1mk)

- A program in which the main memory of the computer is divided into
rows and columns. The intersection of a row and a column is called a cell.
(ii) Give two examples of spreadsheet packages available in the market
today
(2mks)
-MS-Excel Lotus 1-2-3
-Super Calc Quattro Pro

(c) Explain the following terms as used in a spreadsheet:

(i) What if ……analysis (2mks)
(ii) Cell- The intersection of a row and a column. The point of data
entry (1mk)
(iii) Formula- A mathematical expression that combines cell references
using arithmetic symbols (1mk)
(iv) Pie Chart- A graphical object for displaying information using
sectors or a circle (2mks)

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COMPUTER STUDIES
Paper 1
(THEORY)
Oct. /Nov 2003

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

1. Computer systems are built from three types of physical components:
processors, memories and I/O Devices.
(a) State two tasks of a processor (2mks)

(a) To control the use of main memory to store data & instructions
(b) To control sequence of operations
(c) To give instructions to all parts of the computer system
(d) To carry out processing

(b) State the functions of I/O devices

Input – Used to enter data into the computer in a form the computer can store &
process e.g. keyboard, mouse.
Output – Used to display the results of processing e.g. printer, monitor

2. Threats to the safety of computer systems take many forms such as: White-
collar crime, natural, disasters, vandalism and carelessness.
- Give one way as to how each of these forms of threats can be controlled
(i) White Collar Crime- Enforce personnel security e.g.
- No one person should be wholly responsible as system administer
- Introduce computer audit trails
- No one person should be in one department for a long time. Purge
employees
(ii) Natural Disasters
- Floods, computers rooms should not be installed in basements
- Lightening, Use UPS, surge protectors and the like
(have backups that are well kept safely away from the computers site,
have a contingency plan).
(iii) Vandalism
- Enforce personnel security e.g. restrict building access
- Secure computer systems to desks, reinforce doors, windows
- Introduce alarm system, CCTV systems
(iv) Carelessness
- Avoid food, drinks into the lab
- Have backups incase of unintended delete operations
- Have undelete utilities

3. (a) Explain the term nibbles as used in data representation in computers

- A nibble refers to a half a byte or 4 bits ( A byte is equivalent to 8 bits)

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(b) Perform the following binary arithmetic giving the answers in decimal
notation
(i) 1110.0111 + 1101001.011 (3mks)

1110.0111

1101001.0110 = 119.8125
1110111.1101

(ii) 1001011.011 – 111.111

1001011.011 67.5
= 111.111
1000011.100

4. (a) Distinguish between machine and assembly language (2mks)

st
- Machine language or 1 generation language- data and instruction are
represented as binary digits; is machine dependent.
- Assembly Language or 2nd generation language or low level language –
data & instruction are represented using English like symbolic
abbreviations to represent machine language instructions; machine
dependent.
(b) State the type of translator necessary for a program written in:
(i) High level language
- Compiler
- Interpreter

(ii) Assemble language

- Assembler

5. Briefly explain the purpose of the following types of program documentation

(a) User manual
- Manuals provided for an end user to enable him/ her learn how to use the
software.
Provides examples to take the user through the stages of various tasks
(b) Reference guide
- Provides detailed information to a user who already knows how to use the
software but wants to know a particular point or more information about a
particular feature in detail.

(c) Quick reference guide

- A single sheet or card, small enough to fit a pocket, which the user may
keep handy for help with common tasks carried out with the software.

6. State any two features of a user- friendly program

- Relatively easy for user to start using the software

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- Amount of effort & information required of the user to get the system
to complete required tasks should be kept minimum
- Systems should be self- contained so that the user is not forced into
accessing manuals or dealing with things be kept out of the system
- System should be able to adjust to different levels of expertise between
users, and as users grows in competence.
- User should be made to feel in control of what is going on
7. (a) Distinguish between labels and formulae with respect to spreadsheet
(2mks)
Label- a non- numeric piece of data entered into an electronic spreadsheet cell.
Labels are not used for computations. Any cell entry, which begins with a letter or
on apostrophe, is a level.
Formulae- Mathematical computations which join other cells’ values with
mathematical operators such as +, -, * or /

(b) Consider the entries in the cells below

Cell B2 B3 C10 C11 C13
Entry 200 100 B2 B3 C10 + C11

State the values displayed in cell C14 (2mks)

Error (#value) NB: the = sign is missing in cells C10 and C11
8. List three differences between Wide Area Networks (WAN) and Local Area
Networks (LAN) (3mks)
LAN WAN
1. Private communication network 1. Connects LANs, MANs and
connected by a length of cable covers a much wider
that serves a company located geographical area more than 3
within a radius of 10 m – 3 km km.
2. Modems are not always needed 2. Modem, routers and other
3. Telephone circuit not required communications h/w are
4. High data transmission rates required to complete the WAN
5. Low cost transmission 3. Telephone circuit required
4. Low data transmission rates
5. High transmission link cost

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9. Study the flowchart segment below and state the last value printed from the
flowchart. (2mks)

K=1

K=K+1
M [K] =10

Print M [K]
K>5

Exit

10. (a) What is an expert system (1mk)

- A software consisting of knowledge and rules for using it gathered from
human experts in a particular occupation e.g. medicine. An expert system
has the capability to store the collection of knowledge & manipulate it in
response to user inquiries
(b) State any two components of an expert system (2mks)
1. Natural language interface
2. A knowledge database (Where facts are stored)
3. An inference machine (software that solves problems and makes logical
interference)
4. An explanation module (which explain its conclusion to the users)

11. Give two reasons why optical disks are better storage media compared to
floppy diskettes (2mks)
1. Enormous storage capacity compared to floppy diskettes
2. Faster access time and data transfer rates as compared to floppy diskettes
3. Data Recorded on optical disks is not damaged by stray magnetic fields
and surface problems like fingerprints, dusts etc.
12. What are the DOS commands used for the following?
(a) Changing directories – CD\
(b) Viewing directories – DIR
(c) Renaming directories – REN or RENAME
(d) Deleting a directory- RD\

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13. Distinguish between copying and moving text

Copy- This function makes a copy of the selected text and places the copy in a
new location leaving the original text in its original location
The cut function- (move) physically removes selected text from its original
location & places it in a new location.

14. (a) Name two methods of paper orientation (1mk)

- Portrait
- Landscape
(b) Name two keys used to delete text in a document (1mk)
- Del
- Backspace

15. Name two features of database package

(i) Create, insert, update and delete facility
(ii) Query facility
(iii) Sorting facility
(iv) Authorization facility
(v) Recovery control feature/ system
(vi) View mechanism

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

16. Study the flowchart below and answer the questions that follow

(a) Write a high level language program for the above flowchart (7mks)

Program Displays (input, Output); or Program displays (input, Output);

Var Var
A,B,C count: Integer; A,B,C, count: Integer;
Begin Begin
A: = 0
A:=0; B:-1
B:=1 Count: 1
Count =1 For count: =1 to 10 -1 do
While Count <10 do Begin
Begin C: A + B;
Count:= Count + 1; A: =B;
C: = A + B; B:=C;
B:=C; Writeln (B);
Writeln (B); End;
End; End.

(b) List the outputs of the flowchart above

1,2,3,5,8,13,21,34,55

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(c) Modify the flowchart so that it adds up all its outputs and displays the sum
obtained (3mks)

17. A computer specification has the following details

A computer specification has the following details:
Pentium II
1.44 MB floppy disk drive
20 GB hard disk
Full multimedia
17” SVGA monitor
Pre installed operating system
Pre- installed office suite

(i) What is meant by:

The system units contain a floppy disk drive that can read/ write diskettes
of capacity 1.44 megabytes.

(ii) 20 GB hard disk

The hard disk storage capacity is 20 gigabytes

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(iii) 17” SVGA monitors

Diagonal length (size) of the monitor is 17 inches and the motherboard has
a super VGA graphics adapter. SVGA has a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels

(b) Which operating system might be pre- installed in this computer and why?
Win 95, 98, ME
Reason: supports multimedia, office suite
(c) List three multimedia components
- CD Rom
- Speaker
- Microphones
- Multimedia projectors

(d) (i) What is meant by computer aided manufacture?

- The linking of the software through a computer network to the
manufacturing machinery. Robots controlled by the computer accurately
perform the assembly or manufacture based on the design produced by
CAD (Computer Aided Design)
(ii) Give two examples of computer aided design software
- AUTOCAD
- 3D CAD
- DESIGN CAD
- TOTAL CAD
- TURBO CAD

18. (a) Give three examples of network software

- Server software
- Client software
- Network operating system like Linux, UNIX, Win 2000, and Win NT
(b) List any three items that may be referred to as data terminal
equipments in a network (3mks)
- Terminals, computers, protocol converters (NIC), Multiplexor, printer

(c) Briefly explain the following terms as used in networking (4mks)

(i) Remote communication
- Is a way/ method of connecting computers to networks over telephone
lines
(ii) Distributed processing
- Data processing where computations and data storage are spread among
the computers on a network

(d) State three advantages and two disadvantages of mesh network

topology
Advantages

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(i) Fault tolerance. Media faulting has been impact on mesh. Redundant links
enable data to be sent over several different paths
(ii) Guaranteed communication channel capacity
(iii) To trouble shoot

Disadvantages
(i) Difficult to install especially as the number of devices increase since
numerous connections must be made.
(ii) Cost. Difficult to maintain redundant links

19. (a) A company has decided to computerize their operations. They have
decided to purchase packages instead of developing their own programs.
Give three advantages and two disadvantages of this approach.
Advantages
(i) Saves on programming effort and exposure on the part of the user
(client)
(ii) The user gets a well- tried and tested program
(iii) Relatively quick implementation results from use of package

Disadvantages
(i) Purchaser does not have full control over the packages as would have
been if it was developed in house
(ii) Package is produced to meet general needs & may not be ideal for a
particular customer

(b) (i) Explain why a value such as 6112334445555 may be displayed as

####### when typed in a cell on a spreadsheet (2mks)
- The value is too large to be displayed in the current cell width

(ii) How can the problem in (b) (i) above be corrected?

- Expand the cell/column width

(c) With reasons, briefly describe the most appropriate type of printer or
output device for the output of: ( 6 mks)

(i) Customer invoices on multi- part stationery

- Dot- matrix printer – can print multiple copies

(ii) Letters to customers

- Laser – fast and economical on ink usage

(iii) Detailed engineering designs

- Plotter- captures and prints detailed layouts of drawings

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20. Distinguish between the following pairs of terms

(i) Data verification and data validation

Data Validation – Consistency and integrity of data e.g. if input field is

numeric then it must only receive numerals. Anything else is considered
invalid

Data verification- Ensuring that data entered is the same as in the source
documents

(ii) Data Encryption and passwords

Encryption - Encoding a message using a secret key called a cipher.
For one to be able to read the message, they must understand how to
decrypt it using the cipher.

Password – A secret combination of characters (numbers/ letters), used to

prove the identity of a person attempting to gain access to a computer
system. Normally supplied with a username, Should be kept secret.

(iii) Dry run and walk through

Dry run- testing done on a program by simulating its execution by a manual
pencil and paper exercise

Walk through – testing done by inviting other experts to review a program,

system or project.

(b) Draw a labeled diagram to illustrate the internal structure of a

diskette
(4mks)

(c) Give two differences between post office mail and electronic mail
(E- Mail) (2mks)

Post office Mail

- Expensive compared to email since stationery, stamps and transport costs
incurred
- Slow to reach recipient
- Not easy to forward message to dispersed users

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Email
- Costs less to send
- Message sent to users across a computer network
- Message can contain attachment files (WP, Spreadsheets, Graphics etc)
- Recipient can forward message to other user quickly and efficiently
- Recipient can retrieve information from any location across the computer
network
(d) Speed and accuracy are some of the advantages of using computers in
banking. State three other advantages of use of computers in banking.
(3mks)
(i) Massive storage capacity
(ii) Electronic funds transfer
(iii) Processing of cheques using MICR technology
(iv) Provision of ATM services

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COMPUTER STUDIES
Paper 1
(THEORY)
OCT/ NOV 2004
2 ½ HOURS

SECTION A
1. How is a point of sale terminal used in a business organization? (2mks)
- Customer’s item code quantity and price are entered into a post terminal,
POS.
- The modem EPOS terminals automatically debit the customers account
- The POS also does stock control, number of goods in stock can be
automatically known for the sales

2. Distinguish between a compiler and an interpreter (2mks)

- A compiler translates a whole program from source code to object code
while on interpreter translates each command at a time before moving to
the next line.

3. Explain why computers use binary numbers in data representation (2mks)

- The computers system is made up of logic that works only with two states
“ON’ and ‘Off’ for computers to process information, the information
itself must therefore be represented in two states- hence of binary numbers
(0 and 1).

4. What is meant by the term ‘dry running’ as used in program development?

- Testing done by stimulating the execution of a program by a manual pencil
and paper exercise called a “dry run”

5. A computer teacher put a rule that diskettes should not be used in the
computer laboratory
(a) Give a reason for the rule
- Introduction of viruses and other bugs from the diskettes
(b) State two other alternatives that can be used to achieve the same objective
- By disabling the diskette drive
- Having up to date antivirus software that will defect and eradicate any
virus in the diskette.
6. List 3 differences between laser printer and a dot matrix printer
Laser
(a) High print speed
(b) Can do no multiple jobs
(c) Quiet printing
(d) Uses photocopier technology
(e) High print quality
Dot matrix
(a) Low printing speed

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(b) Can do multiple printing

(c) Noisy printing
(d) Characters formed by combination of dots
(e) Low print quality

7. List four stages involved in the data processing cycle (3 mks)

- Origination of data
- Preparation of data
- Inputting of data
- processing
- Output
- Storage

8. (a) What is utility software

- Are system programs that provide a useful service to the user of the
computer by proving facilities for performing tasks of a routine nature

(b) Give four examples of utility software

- Sort
- Editors
- File copying
- File maintenance
- Disk managers
- CHKDSK
- DEFRAG
- SCANDISK

9. Distinguish between an intelligent terminal and a dumb terminal

Dumb terminal – A computer or communications terminals that has no processing
capabilities (has a keyboard and a monitor).

Intelligent terminal- A computer terminal that has its own processor

10. List duties of each of the following personnel

(a) Database administrator
- Responsible for the physical realization of database system including:
- Physical database design and implementation
- Security and integrity control
- Maintenance of operational system
- Ensuring satisfactory performance for the application and uses

(b) Data processing manager

- Sourcing for appropriate data
- Sorting data for various input processes
- Verify that data input is correct
- Ensure data is complete before processing e.g. batch processing

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- Dispatch outputs to relevant outlets.

-
11. Differentiate between source program and object program
- Source code Instructions that a programmer creates when writing a
program/ instructions in the high level language.
- Object Code- Machine language code that is output by a compiler or
assembler
A translator converts source code to object code
12. (a) In DOS, what are the following commands used for?
(i) RD-Removes a directory
(ii) DEL **- deletes all files

(b) What happens when the following commands are typed in DOS environment
(iii) CD – takes the user one step backwards in a directory path
(iv) DIR – Displays files and folders

13. A student presented a budget in the form of a worksheet as follows

A B C
1. Item Amount
2. Fare 200
3. Stationary 50
4. Bread 300
5. Miscellaneous 150
6. Total 200
The student intends to have spent half the amount by midterm

(a) Given that the vale 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.
= $B49* B2

(b) Write two different formulae that can be typed to obtain the total in
cell B6 and then copied to cell C6
= sum (B2: B5)
= B2 + B3 + B4 + B5

14. State three operations that can be performed on relational database files
- Sorting
- Querying
- Report creation
- Performing calculations
- Indexing

15. List three parts that constitute an array definition statement

- Array name
- Boundary

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- Data type
e.g.
Array = MyArray {1...n} of
Integer;
16. Bidii wholesalers have two categories of customers for order processing.
Category ‘A’ obtains 10% discount on all orders upto Kshs 10,000 otherwise the
discount is 20% on the entire order. Category ‘B’ obtains 30% discount on all
orders if the debt repayments is ‘good’ otherwise the discount is 15%. Draw a
flowchart for the order processing.

17. (a) List three application areas of artificial intelligence

- Robotics
- Natural language processing
- Expert systems

(b) With the improvement in the price and performance of computers

and communication eqyuipment, 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 tele- networking. State three
advantages and three disadvantages of working from home

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Advantaged
- Impending quality life
- No stress of traveling to the office
- Traveling time saved
- Cost of traveling saved
- Greater flexibility when working at home

Disadvantages
- Possible feeling of isolation
- No social contact with fellow workers
- Additional cost of home working equipment and connection charges or
employees
- More difficult to build firms and share ideas between colleagues

18. (a) Explain three ways by which computer users can protect their eyes from
harmful emissions from the computer screen
- Using a glare filter
- using an LCD screen (does not emit radiation)
- Not sitting in front of the computer for long hours

(b) List three factors be considered when deciding on the choice of an

electronic data processing method
1. Suitability of accumulating data (Transmission) into batches for
processing
2. Need for direct information retrieval and / or file interrogations
3. Optimization of the processing time
4. Time factor of the information for decision making by the managers
5. Cost of acquiring the necessary h/w, s/w media etc

(c) Explain time- sharing data processing mode giving two advantages
and two disadvantages of its application.
- Central processor serves two or more users with different processing
requirements (tasks) Central processor is available to a variety of users
connected to the central compare via communication links. Processors
time is divided appropriately among users’ tasks into time slices. Control
switched from one job to another under the influence of the OS, in turn,
the processors idle time is removed.

Advantages
- Information output is fast
- Processor idle time is removed
- File enquiry is fast since file are held online

Disadvantages
- Users have no control over central computer
- Response time is more when there are many users

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19. A school has brought a computer system. The hardware items include: 800
MHz processor, 640 MB of RAM, a sound card, speakers, a monitor, a keyboard,
a 12 GB hard disk, a floppy disk drive, CDRW drive, a mouse, a modem, an
inkjet printer and a joystick. The software supplied includes: an OS, a BASIC
interpreter and the following packages: Spreadsheets, graphic, word processor, art
database and games.
(a) List three input devices from the given specifications
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Joystick
(b) Explain the meaning of the following
(i) 800 MHz- refers to the clock speed/ processor speed. The number of clock
cycles per second at which the computer performs its basic operations

(ii) 640 MB- The size of the main memory installed inside main memory, which
holds data and information waiting to be processed.

(iii) 12 GB- The size of the fixed disk (hard disk) in the computer, it is a
secondary storage medium.
(c) Some of the students in the school use the computer to do homework.
Name the packages used to:
(i) Do calculations and draw graphs- Spreadsheets
(ii) Write an easy - word processor
(iii) Make a poster - graphics

(d) Students enjoy playing noisy computer games

(i) Which hardware items are needed to produce sound?
- Soundcard, speakers
(ii) Which input device is used only for playing games?
- Joystick
20. A school magazine organizes its works in directories. The directory WP
contains the files CATS, EXAMS and ASSIGNMENTS. The directory Sp
contains the spreadsheet files and the DB directory contains the database files.
The directory PROG is contained in the others directory. The directory WP is
contained the PERSONAL directory. Given that the directory student contains
directories SP, WP, and OTHERS.
(a) Draw the directory tree structure with C as the root

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(b) Write the path at which the contents of the subdirectory Db can be erased
or displayed
C:\STUDENT\DB

(c) Write the path for the directory PROG

C:\STUDENT\OTHERS\PROG

(d) Give two reasons for storing files in directories and sub- directories
- Better management e.g. files from one application or department can be
stored in different directories so as not to mix them. A directory serves as a
table of contents and allows convenient access to files
(e) Give two disadvantages of using command driven interfaces as compared
to menu driven interfaces

- Need to recall / memorize commands

- Only good to expert users not novices
- Commands are often obscure and vary across systems, causing confusion
to the user and increasing overhead of learning.

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COMPUTER STUDIES
Paper 1
(THEORY)
Oct. /Nov 2005
2 ½ hours

MARKING SCHEME
SECTION A (40 marks)
1. (a) What is a disk formatting? (1mk)
- To prepare storage medium by defining tracks and sectors where data will
be placed in compliance with specific operating system requirements.

(b) Indicate whether the following devices are used for input or output
(2mks)
(i) Plotter - Output
(ii) Light pen Input
(iii) Mouse Input
(iv) Visual display unit

2. (a) Explain why the following controls c\should be implemented for

computer based systems (2mks)

(i) Backups – To maintain a copy of original data in case the

original one is lost or corrupted.

(ii) Passwords – To prevent unauthorized users from trying to access

private data

(b) For each of the following give one reason why they are not allowed in a
computer laboratory.
(i) Smoking - Can start fire
- Can introduce dust through smoke particles

(ii) Eating foods- Can spill and spoil computer parts like keyboard

3. Distinguish between Real, Integer and Character data types as used in

programming ( 3mks)
Real - Constant is represented in two parts, a mantissa part and an
exponential part e.g. 123.456

Integer - Constant must have at least one digit written without a decimal
Point.
Character - A data component that represents a single letter or symbol

4. The cells K3 to K10 of a worksheet contain remarks on student’s

performance such as very good, good, fair and fail depending on the average

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mark. Write a formula that can be used to count all students who have the
remark “very good”
(3mks)
= countif(K3:K10,”very good”)
5. (a) State the purpose of registers in a computer system (1mk)
- To hold data and instructions temporarily as they are being processed in
the CPU ( 2mks)

(b) Name two multiprogramming operating systems (2mks)

- Windows 9X, Linux, Windows 2000, and Windows NT

6. (a) A serial file comprises of records placed in positions 1 to 10. State the
position of the end of file marker (1 mk)
11
(b) State the purpose of each of the following (2mks)
(i) File server software
- Software that provide file handling and storage functions for multiple uses
on a LAN e.g. Windows NT, Windows 2000, Linux
(ii) Communication software
- Program that allows a computer to connect with another computer e.g.
telephone directories, facilities that automate dial up process, log on
procedures etc
7. (a) Name the control structure depicted by the flowchart below

If…then …Else

(b) Explain the following terms as used in program implementation (2mks)

(i) Parallel; running- running in alongside with the information system it is
intended to replace

(ii) Direct change over- starting full operation instantly in the whole
organization (cut – over) & replacing the old system

8. Consider the linear arrays:

(iv) AAA (5:50) - 46
(v) BBB (5:10) - 16
(vi) CCC (18) -18
Find the number of elements in each array (3mks)

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9. Define the term artificial intelligence (2 mks)

- Artificial intelligence can be defined as the field of study concerned with using
computer hardware and software to simulate human thought processes such as
imagination and intuition.

10. Name two types of relationships that can be applied in database design
(2mks)
a. One to one
b. One to many
c. many to many

11. Explain the following terms as used in word processing (3mks)

(a) Indenting – reducing the size of a text block to set that section apart from
the rest of the text.
(b) Alignment – The positioning of text with respect to the right and left
margin of page.
This can be to the left, right, centre or justified
(c) Word wrap – a feature of a word processing software that ensures that a
word that will not fit at the end of a line will automatically be placed at the
start of the next (new) line

12. Outline two ways in which computer can be used in hotels (2mks)
(i) Room reservation system
(ii) Financial and human resource management

13. (a) explain Binary Coded Decimal code of data representation (1mk)
- BCD is a 4-bit code used for coding numeric values only. Unlike pure
binary each number or digit is assigned a specific binary code to represent
it.
(b) Write the number 45110 in BCD notation (1mk)
-100101001
14. Arrange the following data units in ascending order of size (2mks)
BYTE, FILE, BIT, NIBBLE
BIT, NIBBLE, BYTE, FILE

15. State two health issues that may result from prolonged use of computers
(i) Exposure to electromagnetic radiation through the VDU
(ii) Eye Strain
(iii) Repetitive strain injury causing muscle fatigue etc

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

16. (a) State the stage of program development in which:
(i) A flowchart would be drawn
Design
(ii)The programmer would check whether the program does as required
Testing
(iii) The user guide would be written
Documentation
(iv) The requirements specifications would be written
Analysis
(b) State the output of the following flowchart segment

(c) (i) Draw a flowchart to compare the combined resistance (R) of two
resistors R1 and R2 in parallel using the formula

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(i) Write a program using Pascal or C languages for the flowchart in c (i) above.
(5½mks)
Program Resistance (input, output)
Var
R, R1, R2, X1, X2, X3: Real;
Begin
Writeln (this program computes the combined resistance ® of two resistors in
parallel’);
Writeln (please input the values of R1 and R2, press Enter to continue’);
Readln (R1, R2);
x1:1/r1;
x2:1/r2;
x3:=x1+ x2;
R: = 1/x3;
Writeln (the value of the combined resistance is R: 3: 2);
Readln;
End

17. (a) List three paragraph formatting activities in word processing(3 mks)
i. alignment
ii. Tabs
iii. Indentation
iv. Outline level
v. Line spacing

(b) Differentiate between holding and highlighting text ( 2 mks)

- Bolding – A style of text that adds emphasis to a character by making it
darker and heavier than normal type.
- Highlighting – To select an area of a document in order to apply a
command to the area or work with that selection.

(c) 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 mks)

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

I. Monday’s profit = B4 – C4 ( 2 mks)

II. Total income = Sum (B2: B6) ( 2 mks)
III. Highest expenditure = Max (B2: B6) ( 2 mks)

18. (a) Subtract 01112 from 10012 (2 mks)

00102

(b) Using two’s compliment, subtract 7 from 4 and give the answer in
decimal notation (4mks)
7 = 1112
4 = 1002
-4 in two’s compliment is 100

111
100
+ 1011
The resulting answer is 011 since the overflow is ignored. In decimal notation
this is 310
(c) Convert
(i) 91B16 to octal
9 1 B
1001 0001 1011

100 100 011 011

4 4 3 3
91B16 = 44338

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(ii) 3768 to hexadecimal

3 7 6
011 111 110

0000 1111 1110

0 F E
3768 = FE16

(iii) 9.62510 to binary

9= 1001
0625 x 2 = 1.25 WRITE 1
0.25 x 2 =0.5 WRITE 0
0.5 x 2 = 1.0 WRITE 1

9.62510 = 1001.1012

19. (a) Explain what the following DOS commands will do when executed
(i) A: \copy ** B
- Copy all files in drive A to drive B
(ii) C:\ERASE * DOC
- Delete all file with the extension DOC from drive C

(iii) B:\DIR P*.BAT

- List all files starting with P and having extension BAT in drive B

(iv) A:\>MD EXAMS

- Create a new folder/directory called EXAM in drive A

(b) (i) With the aid of a diagram, explain hierarchical (tree) network topology
A network topology that, from a purely topologies
viewpoint, resembles an interconnection of star networks
in that individual peripheral nodes are required to
transmit to and receive from one other node only, toward
a central node, and are not required to act as repeaters
or regenerators.

(ii) List two advantages and two disadvantages of hierarchical network

topology. (4mks)
Advantages
1. Easy to expand the network
2. A peripheral node failure may not disrupt the entire network
Disadvantages
(1) Individual nodes may be isolated from the network by a single- point
failure of a transmission path to the node.
(2) A single point failure of a transmission path within a distributed node will
result in partitioning two or more stations from the rest of the network

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20. (a) Name and explain the function of the keyboard keys represented by the
following symbols (2mks)

(i) Tab Key Used to remove text/ cursor to the

right by a fixed or present number of spaces

(ii) Enter / carriage Return key Used to initiate command on the

screen i.e. Pressed after each
command.

(iii) Shift Key Used to change letter case

Also used in conjunction with other keys for various
Commands.

(b) Simulation is one of the application areas of computers

(i) What is meant by the term simulation (1mk)
- A simulation program is designed to predict the likely behaviour of a real
life system. The real – life situation is represented as a mathematical
model in the computer program.

(ii) Name two application areas of simulation

- Training of pilots (2mks)
- Weather forecasting

(iii) State three advantages of computer based simulation (3mks)

- Simulators are less expensive to operate than actual airplanes
- Pilot training is not affected by weather conditions
- Training in emergency situations can be safely given
- Different conditions such as night flying can be simulated
- Practice can be given in take- off and landing at airports worldwide

(c) Explain three ways in which computers have impacted on Education (3mks)
- Teaching has been made easier through modeling packages. Modeling is when a
computer program attempts to represent a real situation. In order to do this,
mathematical equations are used. Different values can be input to the model to
investigate possible outcomes.
- Simulations packages can be used to train students
- Multimedia packages offer a wealth of resources material, which students can
transfer across into their project work
- It is easier to maintain school/ students records using computers

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Paper 1
(Theory)
Oct. Nov 2006
2 ½ Hours

MARKING SCHEME
Section a (40 marks)
1. What is meant by:
(a) Analogue data: Data that is based on physical variations such as loudness and
pitch, electoral voltages etc

(b) Digital Data- Data, which use the computer’s binary number systems 0 and 1
2. Distinguish between transcription and transportation types of errors and
give an example of each
- A transcription error is a specific type of data entry error that is commonly made
by human operators or by optical character recognition (OCR) programs
E.g. Name: Stamley (wrong) instead of Stanley (Correct)

- A transposition error is an error caused by reversing two or more digits of an

amount while posting transactions. These are almost always human in origin
An Example is ZIP code: 57429 (wrong) instead of 54729 (correct)

3. (a) What are peripheral devices? (1mks)

- Any device connected externally to the CPU

(b) Give two examples of peripheral devices (1mk)

- Mouse, Monitor, Keyboard, printer etc
4. (a) What is meant by the term user – friendly as used in software
development?
- Software that is easier to use or work with (1mk)
(b) Distinguish between the terms single- tasking and multi- user as used in
operating systems (1mks)
Single tasking – the O/S allows one program to be processed at a time
Multi – user an O/S that allows several tasks/ programs to be simultaneously

5. What actions should be taken in case of a fire outbreak in the computer

laboratory? (4mks)
- Switch off main electrical supply
- Vacate the room
- Inform master in charge
- Call for help
- Try to extinguish using the appropriate fire extinguisher (not water)

6. (a) What is an internet service provider?

- A company that provides internet services. Connects users to the internet

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(b) An employee in a business company is charged with the responsibility of

putting the company advertisement on the internet
(i) State the professional title of the employee (1 mk)
- Web administrator, web designer
(ii) Give an example of software used by this employee to carry out the
above task (1 mk)
- HTML, Dream weaver, MS Front Page

7. Differentiate between COM ports and LTP ports

- COM port also known as a serial port transmits data bit by bit
- LTP port also known as a parallel port transmits multiple bits
simultaneously at a time.

8. Explain two ways in which ICT can enhance commerce

- Through better advertisement on the internet
- Through better services in retail shops via point of sale terminals
- Through electronic funds transfer

9. Explain the following software terms

(a) Portability (1mk)
- Ability of a software to work/ function in several computer hardware
and O/S platforms (
(b) Modularity
- Ability of software to be broken down into several sections for easier
understanding and maintenance.
10. (a) State two applications areas of desktop publishing software. (2mks)
- Posters
- Book publishing
- Card design

(b) Explain the following graphic terms

- Rotate- to turn an image through an angle (1mk)
- Crop – to trim the edges of an angle (1mk)
11. Distinguish between margins and borders as used in word processing
(2mks)
A border is a decorative frame that surrounds a page or elements on a
page. The border can be a simple rule line or an elaborate set of lines and
curves. A border can be composed of repeating graphic elements. Borders
can be used to set apart, draw attention or unify disparate elements.

Margin The blank space that surrounds the text on a page or the
boundary line or the area immediately inside the boundary or the blank
space that surrounds the text on a page.
12. (a) List two arithmetic operations that can be performed on a row of
numeric data in a word processing table
+,-,x,/

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b) In each case of (a) above, write the expression used (2mks)

= Function name (left) or = function name (right) e.g. = sum (left) (2mks)

13. List two methods of gathering information during system developments

process. (2mks)
- Observations - Interviews
- Automatic data capture - Studying reports

14. Name three types of optical disks ( 3 mks)

- CD- ROM
- CD- RW
- CD- R
- CD – W

15. The diagram below shows a formatted plate surface of a storage disk

Shade and label:

(a) One sector ( 1 mk)
(b) One block ( 1 mk)

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

16. (a) List two examples of: ( 2mks)

(i) Third generation languages
Pascal, basic, c
(ii) Object oriented languages (2mks)
VB, Small talk, C++

(b) Draw a flowchart to compare three non- equal numeric values A,B,C
and print the largest of the three ( 1mk)

17. (a) One of the functions of an operating system is job scheduling.

Explain what is meant by job- scheduling (1mks)
- Running of a particular job/ task under a system of priority, computer
resource availability, time allocated to user etc.

(b) List and explain three types of user interfaces

- Command driven- Command language dialogues are those in which the
user types instructions to the computer in a formally defined language
- Menu driven- These allow the user to issue commands by selecting
choices from a menu of displayed alternatives
- Graphical User interface- These are those in which the user manipulates,
though button pushes and movements of pointing devise such as a house, a
graphic or iconic representation of the underlying data.

(c) Describe the following categories of software

(i) Firmware
- Soft ware that is burnt in computer ROM chips, usually system software
(ii) Proprietary Software

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- Any software as opposed to freeware, which is available freely

(d) A new company XYZ intends to go into the business of desktop
publishing. Advise the company on three computer hardware system
specification features to consider as a measure of enhancing
performance. (1mks)
- Consider RAM capacity
- Consider speed of computer
- Consider hard disk capacity

18. (a) Distinguish between the following sets of terms as used in

spreadsheets
(i) Worksheet and workbook
Worksheet – The working area in an electronic spreadsheet on which a
user enters the spreadsheet data.
Workbook – A spreadsheet file. A workbook can obtain several
worksheets

(ii) Filtering and sorting

Data filteringis a way of organizing spreadsheet data for ease of analysis.
Often spreadsheet filters are used to “hide” rows of data that do not meet
certain specified criteria. This allows you to analyze (e.g. count, observe
etc) only certain “Filtering” groups of data.
Data sorting: Is a way of arranging record according to one of the fields
in either ascending or descending order.

(b) State one way in which a user may reverse the last action taken in a
spreadsheet package (1 mks)
- Use the undo command (ctrl + z)

(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

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Use the following expressions to answer the questions that follow

- Basic pay- Hours worked x pay per hour
- Allowances are allowed 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 = B2 * C2
(ii) E4 = 10% * D4 or 10% * (B4 * C4)
(iii) F10 = D10 + E10
(iv) G7 = 20% * F7
(v) H5 = H5 – G5

(d) (i) State three ways of moving round the page in desktop publishing window
(3 mks)
- Use cursor keys
- use mouse scroller
- Use scroll buttons (horizontal and vertical)
(ii) State two ways on how information & communication technology (ICT) can
be used to reduce the spread of HIV/ AIDS ( 2 mks)
- Through advertisements on the Internet
- Through creation of posters
- Through discussion groups on the internet

19. (a) Describe the following terms with reference to security of data:
(i) Log files
- A file that lists actions that have occurred. For example, web servers
maintain log files listings every request made to the server. With log file
analysis tools, its possible to get a good idea of where visitors are
coming from, how often they return and how they navigate through a site.
ii) Firewalls. (1mark)
- A firewall is an information technology (IT) security device which is
configured to permit, deny or proxy data connections set and configured
by the organization's security policy. Firewalls can either be hardware
and/or software based.
A firewall!\s basic task is to control traffic between compeer networks
with different zones of trust. Typical examples are the Internet which is
a zone with no trust and an internal network which is (and should be) a
zone with high trust The ultimate goal is to provide controlled interfaces
between zones of differing trust levels through the enforcement of a
security policy and connectivity model based on the least privilege
principle and separation of duties
b) A students' database comprises of students1 details table and fees received
table as shown below:

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Students' details table Fees Received table

Surname Date
Middle Name Amount
First Name Receipt Number
Admission Number
Course
(i) State the primary key field for each table.
Student table- Admission Number
Fees Received table - Receipt Number
ii) State the field, which should serve as the linking field for the two tables.
Admission number
(Note: Make Admission Number a foreign key in the fees table)
c) Describe the following terms with respect to computer security:
i) Logic bombs (2 Marks)
- A computer virus that is activated after a series of event/commands/date
ii) Physical security (2 Marks)
Threats that threaten the physical nature of computer equipment e.g. Fire,
Lightening water, building access etc
iii) Tapping. (2 Marks)
Telephone tapping (or wire tapping/wiretapping) is the monitoring of
telephone and Internet conversations by a third party, often by covert
means. The telephone tap or wire tap received its name because
historically, the monitoring connection was applied to the wires of the
telephone line of the person who was being monitored and drew off or
tapped a small amount of the electrical signal carrying the conversation
(d) List three functions of antivirus software.
- Identify a virus/Warn
- Heal/Clean a virus
- Prevent/Protect infection
- Quarantine infected files
20 (a) The diagram below shows four common network topologies A, B, C
and D.

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

marks)
A Tree/Hierarchy
B Ring
C Bus/Multi drop
D Star
ii) Explain what happens if server X in topology A fails. (1 Mark)
- The terminal connected to X will be affected/stop communicating with the
ret of the network
iii) List two problems associated with network topology B. (2 Marks)
- Difficult to trouble shoot "- Failure of one terminal results in network
breakdown
- Extra cost of extra NIC card.
iv) List two disadvantages associated with network topology D. (2 Marks)
- Failure of central device/server results I total collapse of network
- Extra cost of cabling as each terminal must be cabled separately to the
hub.
b) Differentiate between Internet and World Wide Web. (2 Marks)
The Internet is a massive network of networks, a networking
infrastructure. It connects millions of computers together globally,
forming a network in which any computer can communicate with any
other computer as long as they are both connected to the Internet.
Information that travels over the Internet does so via a variety of
languages known as protocols.
The World Wide Web, or simply Web, is a way of accessing information
over the medium of the Internet It is an information-sharing model that is
built on top of the Internet The Web uses the HTTP protocol, only one of
the languages spoken over the Internet, to transmit data. Web services,
which use IfTTP to allow applications to communicate in order to
exchange business logic, use the Web to share information. The Web also
utilizes browsers, such as Internet Explorer or Netscape, to access Web
documents called Web pages that are linked to each other via hyperlinks.
Web documents also contain graphics, sounds, text and video.
c) Describe the following network services and identify their
applications. (2 Marks)
i) Voice mail (2 Marks)
Voicemail (or voice matt, voicemail or VMS, sometimes called message
bank) is a centralized system of managing telephone messages for a large
group of people. In its simplest form it mimics the functions of an
answering machine, uses a standard telephone handset for the user
interface, and uses a centralized, computerized system rather than
equipment at the individual telephone.
Voicemail systems are much more sophisticated than answering machines
in that they can:
- Answer many phones at the same time

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- Store incoming voice messages in personalized

mailboxes associated with the user's phone number
- Enable users to forward received messages to another
voice mailbox
- send messages to one or more other user voice mailboxes
- Add a voice introduction to a forwarded message
-Store voice messages for future delivery
- Make calls to a telephone or paging service to notify the
user a message has arrived in his/her mailbox
- Transfer callers to another phone number for personal
assistance
- Play different message greetings to different callers.
ii) Video conferencing. (2 Marks)
A videoconference (also known as a video teleconference) is a set of interactive
telecommunication technologies which allow two or more locations to interact via
two-way video and audio transmissions simultaneously. It has also been called
visual collaboration and is a type of groupware.

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COMPUTER STUDIES
PAPER 1
(THEORY)
OCT./NOV. 2007
2 ½ HOURS

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

1. Describe the computer booting process (2mks)
 The internal power supply turns on and initializes.
 The BIOS performs the power-on self test (POST). If there are any fatal errors,
the boot process stops
 The BIOS the looks for other devices’ ROMS to see if any of them have BIOSEs.
Normally, the IDE/Ata hard disk BIOs will be found and executed. If any other
device BIOSes are found, they are executed as well
 The BIOS begins the search for a drive to boot from
 Having identified its target boot drive, the BIOS looks for boot information to
start the operating system boot process

2. State the functions of the following keys on the computer keyboard (2 mks)
c) Backspace – to delete a character to the left of the cursor

d) Insert (ins) – when the key is depressed editing is in overtype mode. Any
new text typed in the middle of a line is inserted between existing text
while the existing text disappears/is deleted.
3. Jane has noticed the following problems in her computer:
 It is taking longer time to start up;
 It is often hanging
 Applications are taking longer to load.
State three possible causes of these problems and how they can be solved (3mks)
a) Disk is fragmented - Defragment the disk by running the defragment
utility. "
b) Virus/bug infection - run the antivirus utility
c) Capacity of RAM is small- Increase the size by replacing the existing chip
with a higher capacity RAM chip.
d) Processor speed is low - Replace processor with a high speed processor.
4. a) Define authenticity as used in software selection (1 mark)
- This refers to the gem4ineness/originaUty/licensed software. Software that is
not pirated.
b) List four ways of acquiring software in an organization (2 marks)
a) Buy Off-the-shelf package - This can be sold through retail outlets without
any direct contact between the software developer and the customer.
b) Customized software applications - The software developer builds an
application that meets the needs of the customer as defined in a specification.
c) Lease or Rent software.
d) Freeware/Shareware

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5. Some of the storage disks available are: Zip disks, 31/2inch floppy disks, DVDs
and 51/4 inch floppy disks. Arrange these devices in ascending order of storage
capacity. (2 marks)
1 1
5 /4 inch floppy disks, 3 /2 inch floppy disks, Zip disks DVDs.
6. You have been asked to change your computer password. State a precaution you
need to take in order to avoid each of the following:
a) Forgetting the password (1 mark)
- Compose password from a hintable phrase.
b) Hacking (1 mark)
- Use both alphabets and numerical in the password
7. State four benefits of using a computer in a school library (2 marks)
a) Record keeping made easier e.g. easy to track borrowers and books
b) Easy to search for library materials.
c) Books and other materials can be held electronically hence allowing
multimedia usage.
d) Library materials can be electronically marked thus minimizing loses
and theft.
8. Using six bits, find the two's complement of -2310. (4 marks)
23÷2=11R1
11÷2=5R1 2310=0101112
5÷2=2R1 Twos compliment = 101000
2÷2=1R0 +1
1÷2=0R1 1010012
9. Explain data series, axis and legends as used in spreadsheet charts. (3 marks)
Data Series
The selected range in a worksheet that EXCEL converts into a graphic
and displays as a chart (in spreadsheet applications)
Axis
A reference line from \which distances or angles are measured in a
coordinate system, such as the X-axis and y-axis in the Cartesian
coordinate system
Legend
Brief description accompanying an illustration (chart) also known as a
caption
10. a) Describe the term data integrity. (2 marks)
The quality of correctness, completeness, wholeness, soundness and
compliance with the intention of the creators of the data
b) State four situations in which data may lose integrity (2marks)
- Accidental insertion/alteration/modification/destruction
- Deliberate insertion/alteration/modification/destruction
- Transfer errors
- Lack of input validations
11. State the-function of each of the following:
a) Network interface card (1 mark)
- It provides connectivity between the PC and the network's physical
medium, the copper or fiber-optic cable.

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-also handle important data-conversion function..

- supplies the basic addressing system that can be used to get data from
one computer to another on the network
b) Network protocol (1 mark)
A common set of rules (usually defined by the International Standards
body the IEEE) and signals (usually electrical, but may be laser light, infra
red radio waves.) that computers connected to a network use in order to
communicate on that network medium.
c) Hub (1 mark)
The hub or concentrator manages and controls all functions of the network
It also acts as a repeater for the dataflow.
12. List four types of publications that can be designed by using desktop publishing
software. (2 marks)
- Posters
- Banners
- Newsletters
- Cards
- Magazines
13. Differentiate between the following pair of terms as used in database design:
a) Input mask and design (2 marks)
An input mask often refers to a string expression that a developer defines
which governs what is allowed to be entered into a typical edit/input box.
b) Table and query (2 marks)
Table - the basic unit of storing data in database
Query - a view created from table(s) that returns specific records based on
a criterion.
14. List four factors to be considered when purchasing an operating system. (2 marks)
a) Does the operating system guarantee the security of your computer, the
application software and the data you are handling?
b) The second crucial question, related with the issue of security, is the
question of the type of network you work with. Is your computer a home
computer for simple application such as word application or a corporate or
business computer in which you handle high-tech data, confidential
information and financial transactions which require high level security?
c) A third question you should answer when going for an operating system is
the memory of your computer. Most current operating systems do not
load onto less than 128MB of memory and therefore, for a computer with
less memory, old school operating system such as DOS and windows 98
might suffice.
d) The cost
Expandability/upgradeability
15. Write an algorithm to compute the area of triangle. (2marks)
(Assume a right angled)
Read the length and height of triangle.
Calculate Area as 0.5 * length * height.
Output Area.

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

Answer question 16 and any other THREE questions from this section ill the spaces
provide*
16. Study the flowchart below and answer the questions that follow

i) Name the control structures used in the flowchart.

- Selection
-Sequencing
ii) Determine the values of M, N, P and Q.
M………17………………..N……………….17…………………..
P………..17………………..Q……………….17………………….
iii) Write the pseudo code for the flowchart
Q=N
START P=M
Initialize M=6, N=l 7 ELSE
P=M-N M=N
Q=N+M Q=M
IF P>Q THEN DO P=N
N=M PRINT N, M, P, Q
STOP

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b) List four functions of an assembler. (2 marks)

a) Translate assembly language to machine code.
b) Execute assembly language statements.
c) Create executable files (.exe) from the assembly language statements.
d) Allocate memory for machine code.
e) Debug for errors
17. a) Define the following web related terms:
i) Web browser (1 mark)
A browser is an application program that provides a way to look at and
interact with all the information on the World Wide Web.
ii) Hyperlink (1 mark)
This is the clickable link in text or graphics on a Web page that takes you
to another place on the same page, another page, or whole other site.
iii) Hypertext document (1 mark)
A document usually web document (file) where the user interacts with the
whole document using hyperlinks
b) List six activities performed on the web (3 marks)
- Browsing for information
- Communication via email and chat groups
- Electronic commerce.
- Advertising of goods and services.
- Transfer of information thro' FTP
c) An institution has ten stand alone computers.
i) Suggest with reasons the most appropriate topology required to inter-
connect the computers. (3 marks)
a) Bus
Reason: Easy to set up, Low cost in terms of cabling QR
b) Star
Reason:
Speed of data transmission is high, Easy to troubleshoot via central
hub or switch
ii) State the necessary steps required to connect the computers to the Internet.
(4
marks)
- Connect server to modem (router) and telephone/or use satellite dish/or
radio
- Get an ISP to configure the Internet protocol
- Configure the rest of the computers to Internet access through a peer-to-
peer configuration or a client-server configuration.

d) Below is an email address:

ggitau @moest. edu.ke
Name the parts labeled:
i) The local-part of the address/username
ii) host name domain-part
iii) generic (organizational) top level domain

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iv) country code top level domain

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18. A computer C directory has folders for Form 1, Form 2, Form 3 and Form 4. Each
class has student's folders labeled according to their number. The students create
their own folder for the are studying based on the table shown below.
a) Assuming there is one student per class, draw the corresponding directory

Directory tree structure

c) i) A form four student wants to create a folder to store to project State the
path for flat project folder. (2 marks)
C:\FORM4\STUDNO\ADB\PROJECT
ii) Suggest how the student can ensure that: - work is not lost in case the hard
disk fails. (1 marie)
- Keep backup copies of the project on offline secondary storage media.
- The project is not copied by other students. (1 mark)
- Use passwords for opening and modifying the project
d) Other than I/O devices, list other three devices under the control of the
operating
- Main memory
- CPU/Processor
- Secondary storage
- Communication device
ii) Explain any one of the devices named in c(i) above. (1mrk)
e) Define the term trouble shooting
Systematic approach to locating the cause of a fault in an electronic
circuit or system

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19. A manager wishes to replace the ctirrent manual system with a computerized one
a) Describe three main areas that must be .evaluated to justify the
replacement. (6 marks)
- Technical feasibility: Does'thecurrenttechnology (hardware & software)
allow.
- Economic feasibility: Are funds available?
- Social feasibility: How will the new system impact on the
organization/society?
b) List the three areas that would be considered in the requirements
specifications. (3 marks)
- Users specifications
- Software specifications
- Hardware Specifications
- Organizational integration specifications
c) State and explain three ways that can be followed to replace the current
system. (6 marks)
- Running in parallel: New system runs along side the old one until the
old one is discarded -
- Cut-over: New system replaces the old one instantly.
- Phased: New system is implemented in phases.
- Pilot sites: New system is tested on pilot sites then whole organization.
20. A head teacher keeps the following student details in a database: Name,
Address, Town, Date of Birth, Marks scored, Fees paid.
i) Name the most appropriate primary key. Give a reason. (2 marks)
Name
- Name alone is not unique though it is very rare that two or more students
will share the same name.
ii) For each item in the student's details above, indicate its most
appropriate data type as used in the database. (3 marks)
Name Text
Address Text
Town Text
Date of Birth Date/Time
Mark Scored Numeric
Fees Paid Numeric/Currency

iii) a) Explain why input screens are better data entry designs than entering
data directly to a table. (2 marks)
- Most forms are bound to one or more tables and query in the database
hence a user can design input fields linked to several tables/queries.
- Forms are also appealing to the eye. They have GUI features unlike a
table.
b) List two career opportunities associated with databases. (2 marks)
Database Administrator
Data Administrator System Analyst
Database Developer

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c) Distinguish between:
i) A table in word-processing application and a table in a database
application. (2 marks)
- A table in a database application is a data entry/storage object, while a
table in a word processor is made up of rows and columns of cells that
one can fill with text and graphics. Tables in word processors are often
used to organize and present information
- In a database one defines the data type for a table in design stage/view
but not the case in a word processor.

ii) Mouse pointer and insertion point. (2 marks)

- Mouse pointer refers to an indicator on the screen, which responds to
the movement of the mouse
- Insertion point is the place, in a full-screen editor or drawing program,
where characters will appear if you start typing. The insertion point,
which is different from the mouse pointer, looks like a thin vertical bar or,
in some contexts, a tall, thin letter "I"; it is relocated by clicking at the
desired position.
d) Outline the steps to be followed in order to merge cells in a word
processing table. (2 marks)
i) Select/Highlight cells to be merged.
ii) Prom the menu bar clicks on table.
iii) Click on merge cells under the menu items.

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COMPUTER
SECTION A (40 MARKS)

Answer ALL the questions in this section in the spaces provided

1. Give a reason for each of the following

(a) Changing a password regularly ( 1 mk)

(b) Typing and re- typing a new password when changing it ( 1 mk)

2. With reference to quality of print, noise level and cost, compare a dot matrix

with a laser printer ( 3 mks)

3. A computer accessories vendor needs to order supplies. A spreadsheet is used to

calculate the order part of which is shown below.

A B C D
1. Item Price per unit Number ordered Cost (Kshs)
2. 56 K modem 8,565.00 60
3. 128 MB Ram 4, 950.00 40
4. Pentium IV 13,525.00 55

Processor
5. Total

(a) Write the formula that can be used in:

(i) D2 ( 1 mk)

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(ii) D5 ( 1 mk)

(b) If a value added tax (VAT) of 16% was charged on each item and the number

ordered was decreased by 10%, write a new formula that can be used in D2 ( 2 mks)

4. List two uses of computers in meteorology ( 2 mks)

5. Explain the following terms as used in desktop publishing ( 2 mks)

(a) Embedded object

(b) Auto flow

6. (a) Name four approaches that may be used to replace a computerized

Information system ( 2 mks)

(b) Which of the approaches named in (a) above is appropriate for critical

systems? Explain ( 2 mks)

1. Explain the following operating systems functions

(a) Job scheduling ( 1 mk)

(b) Interrupt handling ( 1 mk)

2. Name four toggle keys on a standard computer keyboard ( 2 mks)

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3. A computer user typed the name Kajiado as Kajiado and 8726 as 8126

(a) State the type of each error ( 1 mk)

(b) Explain how such errors can be controlled ( 2 mks)

4. Describe third generation languages and name two examples ( 2 mks)

5. (a) (i) What is an internet Protocol (IP) address? ( 1 mk)

(ii) Why is an IP address necessary? ( 1 mk)

(b) What is the purpose of the following internet domains? ( 1 mk)

(i) .org

(ii) .gov

6. (a) name two types of buses found on the computer motherboard ( 2 mks)

(b) State the purpose of each of the types of buses named in (a) above ( 2 mks)

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7. (a) Name the two files commonly used in mail merge ( 1 mk)

(b) Name and explain the two types of drop caps ( 2 mks)

8. Give three ways in which horticultural farmers can benefit from the use of

information and communication Technology (ICT) ( 3 mks)

9. Arrange the following job titles in the order of their seniority

Database administrator, ICT manager, systems analyst ( 1 mk)

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SECTION B (60 MARKS)

Answer question 16 and other three questions from this section in the spaces provided

10. Study the flowchart

below and answer the questions that follow

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(a) What would the flowchart generate as output if the value of N at input was:

(i) 6? ( 2 mks)

(ii) 1? ( 2 mks)

(b) Write a pseudocode that does the same thing as the flowchart above

( 7 mks)

(c) Modify the flowchart so as to reject an input below and to avoid the looping when

the input is 0 ( 4 mks)

11. A lecturer keeps the following student details in a database: name, age, course

(a) write an expression you would use to compute the year of birth of a student

using this year as the current year ( 2 mks)

(b) what query expressions would the lecturer use to list the students whose age is

above 15 years and below 25 years? ( 3 mks)

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(c) Which expression would the lecturer use to generate?

(i) The number of students in the database? ( 2 mks)

(ii) The mean age of the students in the database? ( 2 mks)

(d) Name and describe any two types of database models ( 6 mks)

12. (a) The diagram below shows a layout of a computer network used by a law farm.

A workstation and a printer are located in every consulting room

(i) Name the network topology depicted in the diagram ( 1 mk)

(ii) Name the device labeled D ( 1 mk)

(iii) State four functions of the device labeled ‘server’ ( 4 mks)

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(iv) Give two advantages and one disadvantage of the above network design

( 3 mks)

(v) If the firm intends to open extra offices in two different towns, name any

three hardware devices that would be required ( 3 mks)

(vi) State any two security problems that might arise by linking the offices in

different towns ( 2 mks)

(b) What is spyware? ( 1 mk)

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

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From the diagram:

(i) Name two devices that are used for long term storage ( 2 mks)

(ii) Name three peripherals shown on the diagram that are used for input (3 mks)

(iii) Name two other devices that a computer Aided Design (CAD) user might wish to

add to the set- up above ( 2 mks)

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(b) A customer wishes to purchase a computer system. The customer can buy a word

processor, spreadsheet, database and a drawing package separately or as an integrated

package. State three advantages why many computer users prefer integrated packages

to separate packages.

(c) (i) An anti- virus software installed in a computer is loaded into the main

memory each time the computer is switched on

Explain three ways in which computer virus are spread from one computer to another

( 3 mks)

(ii) Give two reasons why an anti virus package should be updated regularly

( 2 mks)

14. (a) Perform the following binary arithmetic and give your answers in decimal

notation:

(i) 1010.101 + 11.011 ( 3 mks)

(ii) 1010.011 – 11.011 ( 3 mks)

(b) Covert the following numbers into their binary equivalents

(i) 0.562510 ( 3 mks)

(ii) 0.312510 ( 3 mks)

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(c) Using four – bit twos compliment, perform the following arithmetic

1. Design a newspaper publication to appear as indicated in the next page using the

following instruction.

(a) Launch the DTP package and set the preference measurements to centimeters

and the document margins to 2 cm on all sides ( 2 mks)

(b) The headings “digital Bulletin’ to have the following styles ( 4 mks)

 Centered across the page

 Font face: Arial

 Font size: 45

 Background colour: grey

(c) The other two headings in the publication to have the styles

 Font face: Ariel narrow

 Font size: 20

 Text weight: Bold

 Character spacing: 150%

 Alignment: centered across the page ( 5 mks)

(d) The text under the heading “Basic Networking and Connectivity’ to be in three

columns and having the following styles ( 22 mks)

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 Font size: 14

 First character of the paragraph to have a 3 lines drop cap

 Hyphenation: disabled

 Fully justified

(e) The text under the heading ‘Antivirus Information Corner’ to be in a single

column ( 3 mks)

(f) Design the Mercury Digishop advertisement in the position shown

( 10 mks)

(g) Insert the two lines of 4 and 0.75 points respectively in their positions

( 3 mks)

(h) Print the publication ( 1 mk)

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DIGITAL BULLETIN

Basic Networking and Connectivity

The ability to expand beyond the limit of a single office has extended the reach of the PC

to global proportions. Two technologies have driven this expansion; a computer

network and the global network known as the internet.

A network is defined as two or more computers linked together for the purpose

of communicating and sharing information and other resources. Most networks are

constructed around cable connection that link computers. This connection permits the

computers to talk ( and listen) though a wire. More recently, a number of wireless

solutions have become available. Infrared Ports,

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Bluetooth, radio links and other protocols allow variety of new devices to link with PCs.

In order for the network to function, three basic requirement must be met:

 The network must provide connections, communication and services

 Connection include the hardware (physical components) required to hook up a

computer to the network.

 Communication establishes the rules concerning how computers talk and

understand each other. Computers often run different software and therefore

they must speak a shared language

A service defines those things a computer shares with the rest of the network. For

example, a computer can share a printer or specific directories or files. Unless

computers on the network are capable

SPECIAL OFFER

SPECIAL OFFER

Pentium IV

Duo 1.8 Ghz Intel,

120Gb HDD, 512 Mb

Memory, keyboard, full multimedia

35,000/=

Antivirus Information Corner

Viruses are small programs that hide themselves on your disk (diskettes and hard

disks). Unless you use virus detection software the first time that you know that you

have a virus is when it is active. Different viruses are activated in different ways, for

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instance, the famous Friday the 13th virus will activate only when it is both a Friday

and the 13th of the month. Be aware, virus can destroy all you data.

2. The central bank of Kenya (CBK) exchange rates on a certain day for foreign

currencies against the Kenya shillings (Kshs) were as follows

Currency CBK Mean Rate (Kshs)

1 US Dollar 67.0222
1 sterling pound 137.7984
1 Euro 96.6552
1 S.A Rand 10.3100
1 Sweddish Kroner 10.4509

Kariuki, Hamisi, Mumbua, Otieno and Nekesa trade in buying and selling of foreign

currencies. On that day they bought the following foreign currencies from CBK.

Name U.S Dollars Sterling Euros S.A Rands Swedish

Pounds Kroner
Kariuki 400 200 340 1200 290
Hamisi 500 400 400 2000 3000
Mumbua 200 600 300 4000 5000
Otieno 600 200 200 1000 3000
Nekesa 400 200 600 2000 1000

They then sold their foreigners currencies at the following rates

Name U.S Dollars Sterling Euros S.A Rands Swedish

Pounds Kroner
Kariuki 70.5 139.0 96.7910 10.4213 10.6725
Hamisi 69.0 138.5 96.79 10.5712 10.2676
Mumbua 70.0 141.5 96.76 10.3974 10.7432
Otieno 69.55 139.0 96.80 10.6371 10.5942
Nekesa 69.5 138.5 96.40 10.7218 10.6155

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(a) Using a spreadsheet package, represent the above information in one worksheet

and save it as FOREX (13

mks)

(b) Using formulae with absolute and relative cell references, determine the total

profit made by each trader. (

14 mks)

(c) Format the profit for each trader to zero decimal places ( 2 mks)

(d) Create a well labeled bar graph on a different worksheet showing the cost

incurred on buying US dollars by each trader

(13 mks)

(e) Use a function to determine the trader who got the highest profit ( 3 mks)

(f) Format the first table as follows:

 Set the direction of the labels to 450 ( 2 mks)

 Centre vertically all the records ( 1 mk)

(g) Print the worksheet and the graph ( 2 mks)

Thanks for

highping
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productions

@obed #nbhs

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