| Questions | Marks | |
| Previous EST’s | 15 | 59 |
| Zeming | 27 | 45 |
| Alex | 2 | 5 |
| Ethan | 15 | 31 |
| Michael | 4 | 6 |
| TOTAL | 62 | 139 |
KNOWLEDGE
1.4 systems development documentation as a part of the SDLC:
context diagrams using Yourdon/DeMarco notation
Zeming – 5 Qu – 9 Marks
Define the primary purpose of a Context Diagram within the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC). 1 Mark
Answer
The primary purpose of a Context Diagram is to define the scope and boundaries of a system by showing it as a single central process and its interactions with external entities.
Marking Key
1mark: Identifying that it defines system boundaries or scope.
Identify and describe the two primary graphical components used in a Context Diagram according to Yourdon/DeMarco notation. 2 Marks
Answer
The Process (Circle/Bubble): Represents the entire system being modeled as a single, central transformation process.
External Entities (Rectangles): Represent the external people, organizations, or other systems that interact with the system by providing inputs or receiving outputs.
Marking Key
1 Mark: Correctly naming the symbols (Process and External Entities).
1 Mark: Providing a brief, accurate description of their roles.
xplain three essential rules that must be followed when constructing a Context Diagram using Yourdon/DeMarco notation. 3 Marks
Answer
Single Process Constraint: The system must be represented by one and only one process circle (often labeled ‘Process 0’).
Exclusion of Data Stores: Internal data stores (databases/files) are never shown on a context diagram as they are considered part of the internal system.
Flow Direction Rule: Every data flow must connect an external entity to the central process; data flows cannot occur directly between two external entities.
Marking Key
1 Mark: Explaining the “Single Process” rule.
1 Mark: Identifying that data stores are excluded from this level.
1 Mark: Explaining that data must flow through the system (no entity-to-entity flows).
Identify the primary purpose of a Context Diagram in the SDLC. 1 Mark
Answer
To define the system boundary and show how the system interacts with external entities.
A local gym is developing a “Member Check-in System.” Members scan a QR code to enter, and the Manager receives a weekly attendance report.
State the two specific symbols used in Yourdon/DeMarco notation to represent the System and a Data Flow . 2 Marks
Answer
System (Process): A single circle (or bubble). [1]
Data Flow: A solid line with an arrow indicating direction. [1]
Michael – 2 Qu – 3 Marks
Identify the primary purpose of a Context Diagram in the SDLC. 1 Mark
Answer
To define the system boundary and show how the system interacts with external entities.
State the two specific symbols used in Yourdon/DeMarco notation to represent the System and a Data Flow. 2 Marks
Answer
System (Process): A single circle (or bubble). [1]
Data Flow: A solid line with an arrow indicating direction. [1]
EST 2017 Qu7a – 1 Mark
Answer
1.8 appropriate hardware components for a computer system designed for a specific purpose, including:
input, output, processing, storage (primary and secondary)
Zeming – 2 Qu – 6 Marks
Explain how the intended purpose of a computer system influences the choice of its hardware components. 2 Marks
Answer
The hardware must be selected to meet the specific performance requirements of the task (e.g., high-end GPUs for gaming or video editing)
It ensures cost-effectiveness by not over-specifying components that aren’t needed for the system’s primary use
Marking Key
The hardware must be selected to meet the specific performance requirements of the task (e.g., high-end GPUs for gaming or video editing) [1 Mark].
It ensures cost-effectiveness by not over-specifying components that aren’t needed for the system’s primary use [1 Mark].
A graphic designer requires a computer system for professional 4K video editing. Identify two specific hardware components they should prioritize and justify each choice. 4 Marks
Answer
Component 1: High-end Graphics Card (GPU) – Necessary to handle complex rendering tasks and real-time playback of high-resolution video
Component 2: Large amount of RAM (e.g., 32GB or more) – Allows the system to store large video files in memory for faster access during editing, preventing lag
Marking Key
Component 1: High-end Graphics Card (GPU) – [1 Mark + 1 Mark justification].
Component 2: Large amount of RAM (e.g., 32GB or more) – [1 Mark + 1 Mark justification].
EST 2024 Qu1a – 6 Marks
Answer
EST 2021 Qu2a – 2 Marks
Answer
EST 2021 Qu2b – 4 Marks
Answer
Ethan – 1 Qu – 4 Marks
Give examples of peripheral hardware you would need if you were to build a recording studio. 4 Marks
Answer
Monitor, Speakers, Mouse, Keyboard, Headphones, Microphones, Synthesizers, MIDI keyboards, Mixing desks.
Any 4 of the above.
1.8.1 input
Zeming – 2 Qu – 3 Marks
Describe why a designer would prefer a graphics tablet over a standard mouse for digital illustration. 2 Marks
Answer
A graphics tablet provides pressure sensitivity, allowing for varying line thickness based on how hard the user presses
It offers more natural ergonomic control and precision similar to using a pen on paper
Marking Key
A graphics tablet provides pressure sensitivity, allowing for varying line thickness based on how hard the user presses [1 Mark].
It offers more natural ergonomic control and precision similar to using a pen on paper [1 Mark].
Name one input device suitable for a Point of Sale (POS) system. 1 Mark
Answer
Barcode scanner (or Touchscreen).
Ethan – 1 Mark
Name an input device. 1 Mark
Answer
Keyboard, Mouse, Microphone
1.8.2 output
Zeming – 2 Qu – 4 Marks
Identify the most suitable output device for producing high-quality architectural blueprints on large-sized paper 1 Mark
Answer
Plotter [1 Mark].
Marking Key
Plotter [1 Mark].
Compare a Laser printer and an Inkjet printer in terms of their suitability for a small office that prints large volumes of text documents. 2 Marks
Answer
A Laser printer is more suitable due to its faster printing speed for high volumes
It also has a lower cost per page for black-and-white text compared to inkjet cartridges
Marking Key
A Laser printer is more suitable due to its faster printing speed for high volumes [1 Mark].
It also has a lower cost per page for black-and-white text compared to inkjet cartridges [1 Mark].
Provide an example of an output device for a climate control system. 1 Mark
Answer
LCD display (showing temperature) or an Actuator (turning on the heater).
1.8.3 processing
Zeming – 3 Qu – 4 Marks
Define the role of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) in a computer system. 1 Mark
Answer
The CPU is responsible for fetching, decoding, and executing instructions and managing the flow of data within the system [1 Mark].
Marking Key
The CPU is responsible for fetching, decoding, and executing instructions and managing the flow of data within the system [1 Mark].
Explain the benefit of a multi-core processor for a user who performs intensive multitasking. 2 Marks
Answer
Multiple cores allow the computer to process different instructions from various applications simultaneously [1 Mark].
This prevents the system from slowing down or “freezing” when many programs are open at once [1 Mark].
Marking Key
Multiple cores allow the computer to process different instructions from various applications simultaneously [1 Mark].
This prevents the system from slowing down or “freezing” when many programs are open at once [1 Mark].
What is the main role of the CPU in a computer system? 1 Mark
Answer
To execute instructions and process data through logical and arithmetic operations
Ethan – 2 Qu – 3 Marks
Name a processing device that is required to display graphics to the user.. 1 Mark
Answer
Graphics Card/CPU with integrated graphics.
Explain the benefit of a high end graphics card being used for 3D graphic rendering. 2 Marks
Answer
-Allows for more intensive rendering methods to be used.
-Allows for more complex scenes to be rendered easier.
1.8.4 storage (primary and secondary)
Zeming – 2 Marks
Explain the difference between primary and secondary storage regarding data volatility. 2 Marks
Answer
Primary storage (e.g., RAM) is volatile, meaning it loses data when power is off.
Secondary storage (e.g., SSD) is non-volatile, meaning it retains data long-term.
Ethan – 1 Qu – 2 Marks
Explain the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory. 2 Marks
Answer
non volatile memory does not get cleared when power is lost while volatile memory needs power to store information.
1.9 the role of the standard operating environment (SOE)
Zeming – 2 Qu – 3 Marks
State one reason why a large school would use an SOE. 1 Mark
Answer
To reduce maintenance costs and ensure all software is consistent/compatible across all devices.
A graphic design firm is upgrading its hardware. They want to implement a Standard Operating Environment (SOE) across all designer workstations.
Explain two benefits of implementing an SOE in this professional environment. 2 Marks
Answer
Maintenance: IT staff can deploy updates or “images” to all computers simultaneously, reducing downtime.
Compatibility: Ensures all designers use the same software versions, preventing file corruption or font errors during collaboration.
Ethan – 4 Qu – 7 Marks
Name a way that a SOE makes things easier. 1 Mark
Answer
Lower maintenance, Less training
Marking Key
Any one of the above.
Name two drawbacks of a SOE. 2 Marks
Answer
No user customization and can’t use software that doesn’t support your SOE
Marking Key
Name a way that a SOE makes things easier. 2 Marks
Answer
To improve efficiency by standardizing and simplifying IT infrastructure.
What is the role of a SOE? 2 Marks
Answer
To improve efficiency by standardizing and simplifying IT infrastructure.
Michael – 2 Marks
What is the role of a SOE? 2 Marks
Answer
To improve efficiency by standardizing and simplifying IT infrastructure.
EST 2024 Qu1b – 3 Marks
Answer
1.16 privacy considerations in the development and use of ICT systems
Zeming – 1 Mark
Why must developers consider privacy when designing a database for a medical clinic? 1 Mark
Answer
To ensure sensitive personal data is protected from unauthorized access and to comply with privacy laws.
Michael – 1 Mark
Why must developers consider privacy when designing a database for a medical clinic? 1 Mark
Answer
To ensure sensitive personal data is protected from unauthorized access and to comply with privacy laws.
Ethan – 2 Qu – 3 Marks
Give an example of personal information. 1 Mark
Answer
Name, Home Address, IP address.
Identify and explain a way of how a website could implement data minimisation. 2 Marks
Answer
e.g: asking only for birth year over exact birth date, this reduces the amount of sensitive information being stored.
2.3 data protection methods, including:
2.3.1 encryption
2.3.2 authentication
2.3.2.1 passwords
2.3.2.2 biometric
2.3.2.3 digital signature
EST 2023 Qu3b – 2 Marks
Answer
2.3.1 encryption
Zeming – 1 Mark
How does encryption protect data during transmission? 1 Mark
Answer
It scrambles data into ciphertext, making it unreadable to anyone without the correct decryption key.
Ethan – 1 Mark
What is the role of encryption? 1 Mark
Answer
To protect important data on a computer or while it is being transmitted.
EST 2020 Qu1c – 2 Marks
Answer
2.3.2 authentication
Zeming – 2 Marks
Compare Biometric and Password authentication. 2 Marks
Answer
Passwords are “something you know” (knowledge-based), while Biometrics are “something you are” (physiological, e.g., fingerprint).
Ethan – 2 Marks
Give 2 examples of authentication. 2 Marks
Answer
Password, Biometrics, Digital signature.
EST 2023 Qu3c – 3 Marks
Answer
EST 2022 Qu1d
Answer
2.3.2.1 passwords
EST 2022 Qu1a – 2 Marks
Answer
EST 2022 Qu1b – 2 Marks
Answer
Ethan – 1 Qu – 3 Marks
Give characteristics of a strong password. 3 Marks
Answer
Large amount of characters, including numbers and avoiding common words and phrases.
2.3.2.2 biometric
Alex – 3 Marks
Explain Biometrics and give examples. 3 Marks
Answer
Biometrics are automated methods used to identify individuals based on unique physical or behavioural traits, such as fingerprints, facial structure, iris patterns, or voice
Ethan – 1 Qu – 2 Marks
Give two examples of biometrics. 2 Marks
Answer
Facial scan, fingerprint, eye scan, voice, gait
Marking Key
Any two of the above.
2.3.2.3 digital signature
Alex – 2 Marks
Explain digital signature. 2 Marks
Answer
A digital signature is a cryptographically secured, electronic “fingerprint” used to authenticate digital documents, emails, or software.
2.6 ethical and legal issues relating to in the personal use and storage of data
Zeming – 2 Marks
Is it ethical for a company to sell user data to third parties without consent? Explain. 2 Marks
Answer
No. It is unethical as it violates user trust and privacy expectations, even if not explicitly illegal in some jurisdictions.
2.7 legal requirements and implication of information kept by various organisations about individuals
Zeming – 1 Mark
Under Australian law, what right does an individual have regarding the data an organisation holds about them? 1 Mark
Answer
The right to access their personal information and request corrections if it is inaccurate.
Ethan – 2 Marks
Individuals have a right to do what with their data? 2 Marks
Answer
View, modify and delete it.
EST 2023 Qu3d – 3 Marks
Answer
2.8 issues related to use of online databases
Zeming – 1 Mark
Identify one risk of storing a company database in the cloud (online) 1 Mark
Answer
Dependence on internet connectivity or potential data breaches via cyber-attacks
Ethan – 1 Mark
What is an issue of online databases? 1 Mark
Answer
Data breaches, dependence on internet.
SKILLS
1.18 analyse context diagrams
Zeming – 1 Mark
When looking at a Context Diagram, how can you tell if an item is an External Entity? 1 Mark
Answer
It is represented by a rectangle and exists outside the system circle.
Ethan – 2 Marks
Name 2 elements of a context diagram. 2 Marks
Answer
External entity, data flow lines, system entity.
EST 2019 Qu5a – 4 Marks
Answer
1.19 documentan existing system
Zeming – 1 Mark
Why is it important to document a system before making changes to it? 1 Mark
Answer
To understand the existing workflows and ensure new changes don’t break current functionality.
EST 2023 Qu2a – 11 Marks
Answer
EST 2020 Qu5a – 5 Marks
Answer
EST 2017 Qu7b – 9 Marks
Answer
1.20 create context diagrams using Yourdon/DeMarco notation, as a part of the SDLC
Zeming – 8 Marks
A school plans to develop a self-service borrowing system to reduce the workload of librarians.
The system operates as follows:
- students can search for books through the system and borrow and return books using their student IDs.
- Librarians are responsible for entering new book information, updating the status of old books, and retrieving the “overdue list” from the system.
- The school’s academic affairs database automatically synchronizes student registration status with the system to ensure that only enrolled students can borrow books.
Answer
Zeming – 2 Qu – 4 Marks
List the three (3) main graphical symbols used in a Yourdon/DeMarco Context Diagram. 2 Marks
Answer
- Circle (Process/System);
- Rectangle (External Entity);
- Labelled Arrow (Data Flow)
A local gym is developing a “Member Check-in System.” Members scan a QR code to enter, and the Manager receives a weekly attendance report.
Identify two data flows that would originate from the “Member” external entity and flow into the system. 2 Marks
Answer
- Member ID / QR Code data. [1]
- Login credentials (if applicable). [1]
