CAT THEORY NETWORK, INTERNET TECH AND SOCIAL

IMPLICATIONS
GRADE 10
BY SIRANTWI
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✅ System Technologies & Functions
Category Concept / Term Explanation / Use Advantages Disadvantages

Input Pointing Devices Devices used to control the movement of the cursor on a - Provides precise - Can be
Devices computer screen. control. uncomfortable for
- Easy to use. prolonged use.
- Variety of devices - Requires space.
available. - Can malfunction if
- Ergonomically not calibrated.
designed devices - Can be less
available. accurate if damaged.

Touch Pad A flat surface that detects the movement of a finger or - Compact and - May lack precision.
stylus for controlling the cursor. portable. - Can be difficult for
- Often built into users unfamiliar
laptops. with it.
- Intuitive for users. - Not ideal for
- Multitouch support. extended use.

Trackball A pointing device with a ball that rotates, allowing for - Ergonomic design. - Less commonly
cursor movement. - Useful in limited used.
space. - Takes time to get

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 - Precise movement. used to.
- Suitable for people - Can cause strain if
with limited mobility. used improperly.

Touchscreen A display that allows direct interaction by touching the - Direct and intuitive - Can be difficult in
screen. control. bright lighting.
- Compact design. - Requires cleaning.
- Multi-touch support. - Can wear out with
- Easy navigation. heavy use.
- Less precise than a
mouse.

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Stylus A pen-like tool used for precise input on touchscreens or - High precision. - Easy to lose.
- Ideal for drawing or - Limited by screen
writing. size.
- Can offer pressure - May need
sensitivity. calibration.
- Can be used for - Not intuitive for all
multitasking. users.

tablets.

Joystick A device used for controlling video games or simulations, - Great for gaming and - Limited
usually with a lever or stick. simulations. functionality outside
- High precision in of gaming.
motion. - Can be difficult for
- Ideal for 3D new users.
environments. - Takes up space on
- Comfortable grip for the desk.
extended use.

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Scanning Devices like barcode scanners or OCR to input information - Fast data input. - Requires
Devices from physical objects into a computer system. - Increases accuracy. maintenance.
- Supports - May need
automation. specialized training.
- Reduces human - Limited to certain
error. tasks.

RFID (Radio- A technology that uses electromagnetic fields to - Quick, non-contact - Expensive
frequency automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. identification. technology.
Identification) - Efficient tracking. - Privacy concerns.
- Can be used in real- - Limited range.
time. - Can be disrupted
- Reduces human error by interference.
in data entry.

Barcode Machine-readable codes used to store information that can - Fast and reliable - Requires a scanner.
be scanned to retrieve data. identification. - Can be damaged or
- Easy to generate. worn out.
- Low cost. - QR codes may
- Can store a lot of require a mobile app
data in a small space. for scanning.

QR Code A QR Code Scanner is a device or mobile app that reads Fast and easy to Requires a
Quick Response (QR) codes, which are square-shaped use—just scan with a smartphone or QR
barcodes. phone camera. scanner to read.
Contactless and Can be misused for
It decodes the information stored in the code, such as a hygienic, ideal for phishing (linking to
link, text, contact details, or payment info. health safety. fake websites).
Can store a lot of
data in a small space.

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 Uses of QR Codes: Free to create and Not user-friendly for
• Accessing websites or downloading apps quickly. scan using apps. people without
• Making digital payments (e.g., with banking or Works across digital access.
wallet apps). various industries— Needs internet
• Checking in at events or venues (e.g., COVID-19 education, retail, access if the QR
screening). healthcare, etc. code links to online
• Storing product information or contactless menus. content.
• Linking to social media profiles or educational
resources.

OCR (Optical Technology used to convert scanned documents (e.g., - Converts physical - Accuracy depends
Character scanned paper documents) into editable data. documents into on the quality of the
Recognition) editable formats. document.
- Reduces manual data - Requires training
entry. to handle complex
- Saves time. documents.
- Can handle large - Can be slow.
volumes.

Video Webcam A small camera that captures video input for video calls, - Compact and - Poor video quality
Input streaming, and recording. portable. in low light.
Devices - Enables real-time - Privacy concerns.
video communication. - Can be hacked for
- Inexpensive. surveillance.
- Easy to set up. - Limited video
resolution.

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Audio Microphone Device that captures sound, enabling speech input and - Hands-free - Susceptible to
Input (Voice voice recognition technologies. interaction. background noise.
Devices Recognition) - Increases - Requires
accessibility. calibration.
- Quick input method. - Can be inaccurate
- Can be used for with different
dictation. accents.
- Privacy concerns.

Biometric Fingerprint A device that scans fingerprints for identification or - High security. - Expensive
Input Scanners security purposes. - Fast and reliable. hardware.
Devices - Non-invasive. - Can fail with dirty
- Hard to replicate. or damaged fingers.
- Privacy concerns.
- Not universally
accepted.

Iris Scanner Scans the unique patterns in the iris of the eye for - Extremely secure. - Expensive
identification or security purposes. - Difficult to deceive. hardware.
- Non-invasive. - Requires
- High accuracy. specialized
environment.
- Limited by lighting
conditions.
- Can be
uncomfortable.

Facial Uses unique facial features for identification and - Non-invasive. - Privacy concerns.
Recognition verification. - Fast and convenient. - Can be fooled by

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 - Increasingly accurate. photos.
- Can be used - Requires a lot of
remotely. data.
- Can fail in poor
lighting or with
obstructed faces.

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 ✅ Output Devices
Category Concept Basic Concept / Use Features Advantages Disadvantages

Audio output devices are hardware

components that allow a computer or
electronic system to send sound to the user.
These devices convert digital audio signals
into audible sound.
Common Uses:
• Listening to music, videos, and
podcasts
• Participating in video calls or virtual
meetings
• Gaming with immersive sound
effects
Audio • Audio feedback in learning and
Output assistive technologies
• Presentations and public speaking
(via speakers)

🎧 Examples of Audio Output Devices:

• Speakers – for playing music and
sound aloud.
• Headphones – for private listening.
• Earphones/Earbuds – compact
version of headphones.
• Soundbars – used with TVs and
home theatres.

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Category Concept Basic Concept / Use Features Advantages Disadvantages

• Bluetooth audio devices – wireless

sound output.
Headsets Devices worn over the ears to output sound Over-ear or in-ear; - Private listening - Can cause ear
from a computer or device. - Built-in mic for fatigue
may include
calls - Battery needed
microphone;
- Portable for wireless
wired/wireless.
- Good for - Can be expensive
multitasking

Speakers Devices that play audio for users to hear Stereo or surround; - Good sound - Not private
without wearing them. quality - May disturb
can be Bluetooth or
- Useful for others
wired;
presentations - Quality varies by
built-in or external. - Shared audio price
- Available in all
sizes

Other Multifunction Devices that perform multiple functions like All-in-one design; - Space-saving - Slower than
Output Devices/Printer printing, scanning, copying. - Versatile dedicated printers
usually includes
- Cost-effective - If one function
USB/Wi-Fi;
- Ideal for home fails, others may
can print wirelessly. or office use too

Data Projector Projects digital image/video onto a screen HDMI/VGA input; - Great for - Requires dark
for large-scale viewing. presentations room for clarity
adjustable focus;
- Large viewing - Needs a screen
area or surface
- Useful in - Bulb

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Category Concept Basic Concept / Use Features Advantages Disadvantages

portable or ceiling- education and replacements

mounted. meetings costly

Visualizer Projects documents or objects onto a screen High-resolution - Real-time - Needs external
(Document via a projector. camera; display projector
Camera) - Great for - Can be bulky
zoom capabilities;
teaching - Expensive
works with a - Can zoom in on models available
projector or screen. small objects

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 ✅ Storage Media and Devices
Category Concept Basic Concept / Use Features Advantages Disadvantages

Storage Memory Small, portable storage devices used SD, - Portable - Easy to lose
Media Cards in mobile phones, cameras, tablets, - Easy data transfer - Can be corrupted
microSD formats;
etc. - Reusable - Lower durability
capacity from 4GB to - Compatible with - Needs reader for
1TB; many devices PCs

Storage Card Device used to access data from USB, - Quick access to - Needs drivers
Devices Reader memory cards. card data sometimes
USB-C, or
- Plug-and-play - May not support all
Can be internal (built-in) or external
built-in ports; multi- - Can support formats
(plug-in).
format compatibility. multiple card types - External ones can be
lost easily

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 ✅ Processing Components
Component Basic Concept / Use Features Advantages Disadvantages

Motherboard The main circuit board that Contains slots for RAM, CPU, - Central - Failure affects entire
connects all components and GPU, and storage; ports for communication hub system
peripherals of a computer. external devices. - Supports upgrades - Expensive to replace
- Vital for performance - Complex to upgrade

CPU (Central Executes instructions and Multi-core processors; - High processing - Generates heat
Processing Unit) processes data. power - Can be costly
measured in GHz;
- Multitasking - Speed may be
Known as the "brain" of the
Intel/AMD brands. - Handles all system affected by other
computer.
logic components

RAM (Random Temporary storage for data and Measured in GB; - Fast data access - Volatile memory
Access Memory) programs being used. - Increases system - Limited capacity on
DDR3, DDR4, DDR5 types;
speed some systems
Data is lost when PC is turned off.
high-speed access. - Multitasking - Cannot store data
efficiency permanently

ROM (Read-Only Permanent memory used to store Non-volatile; - Retains data after - Cannot be easily
Memory) essential system information shutdown updated
stores BIOS/firmware;
(e.g., boot instructions). - Crucial for system - Limited storage
cannot be modified easily. startup - Not suitable for
- Reliable regular storage

Measuring Speed Indicates how many cycles the CPUs usually range between - Helps compare CPU - Doesn’t always
(GHz) CPU performs per second (1 GHz 1.8 GHz – 5.0 GHz; speed indicate real
= 1 billion cycles/sec). - Higher GHz = faster performance

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Component Basic Concept / Use Features Advantages Disadvantages

affected by cores and operations (generally) - Higher GHz = more

architecture. - Essential for heavy power consumption
tasks - May cause heating

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 Categories of Software
Category Definition Advantages Disadvantages

Proprietary Software owned by an individual/company. - Reliable support - Expensive

Software - Regular updates - No access to source
Source code is not publicly available.
- Professional code
documentation - Limited customization
- Secure and stable - License restrictions

Open Source Software with source code that is freely available to modify - Free to use - May lack support
Software and distribute. - Customizable - Security concerns
- Community support - Varying quality
- Encourages innovation - Steeper learning curve

System Software
Component Definition / Function Example / Explanation

System software System software is a type of computer program designed to manage and 1.Operating Systems – e.g., Windows,
control hardware and provide a platform for running application software. macOS, Linux, Android
2. Device Drivers – e.g., printer
drivers, display drivers
3. Utility Programs – e.g., antivirus
software, disk cleanup tools
4.Firmware – e.g., BIOS or UEFI
(permanent software in hardware)
5.System Management Tools – e.g.,
task managers, system monitors

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Component Definition / Function Example / Explanation

Drivers Software that enables the operating system to communicate with hardware Printer driver, sound card driver.
devices.

Auto- The automatic detection and setup of hardware devices when connected. Plug-and-play USB mouse or keyboard.
configuration

Hot-swappable Devices that can be connected/removed without restarting the computer. External hard drives,
Devices
USB flash drives.

Utility Programs
Utility Definition / Purpose Examples

Utility Programs System tools that help manage, maintain, and Disk Cleanup-removes unnesary files,
optimize a computer.
Defragmenter- rearranges scattered files to
speed up the computer

Antivirus- protect the computer against virus

Backup software-saves copies of files
File Manager-organises files

Compress/Decompress Files Reduces file size for storage/sharing and restores it WinRAR,
for use.
7-Zip,
Windows Zip tool.

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 Device and File Management Features
Feature Function / Purpose Examples / Notes/Steps
Creating Screenshots Capturing what is displayed on the screen. Snipping Tool,
Print Screen key.
Creating Shortcuts Making quick access links to files/folders/software on Right-click > Create shortcut.
the desktop or taskbar.
Adding Peripherals Peripherals are external devices connected to a 🧩 Types of Peripherals:
computer that input, output, or store data. 1. Input Devices – send data to
It helping the user interact with the system. the computer
They are not part of the core computer (CPU, RAM, o e.g., Keyboard, Mouse,
motherboard) but work with it to perform tasks. Scanner, Webcam
2. Output Devices – receive data
from the computer
o e.g., Monitor, Printer,
Speakers
3. Storage Devices – store data
for later use
o e.g., External hard drive,
USB flash drive, SD card
4. Input/Output Devices (I/O) –
do both
o e.g., Touchscreen,
External drives,
Headsets
Pairing Devices Connecting Bluetooth devices wirelessly. Bluetooth speakers,
headsets,
keyboards.
Changing Default Printer Setting a preferred printer for all print tasks. Settings > Devices > Printers &
Scanners.
Printer Queue Management Managing and prioritizing print jobs waiting in line to Cancel,
be printed. pause, or

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Feature Function / Purpose Examples / Notes/Steps
resume print jobs from the control
panel.
Printer Queue A printer queue is a list of print jobs that are waiting
to be printed.
When multiple documents are sent to the printer, they
are lined up in the order they were received (unless
prioritized), and each job waits its turn.
Spooling Spooling (Simultaneous Peripheral Operations
On-Line):

Spooling is the process where print jobs are

temporarily stored on the computer’s hard drive or
memory before being sent to the printer.

🧠 Think of it like a buffer – it allows the CPU to

quickly hand off tasks so it can keep working, while
the printer processes them slowly, one by one.

Compressing/Decompressing Compressing refers to reducing the file/folder size - Windows built-in zip tool
using special software. - WinRAR
- 7-Zip
Decompressing restores the file to its original size for - WinZip
use.
Steps in compressing a file
Functions Right-click a folder > Send to >
- Save storage space Compressed (zipped) folder
- Make file transfer quicker (especially over the (Windows).
internet)
- Bundle multiple files into one archive Steps to decompress a zip file
Common Formats of Compressing Double-click to extract (decompress)
or use software like 7-Zip.

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Feature Function / Purpose Examples / Notes/Steps
.zip,
.rar,
.7z,
.tar
.gz

Advantages of compressing a file

1. Saves storage space
2. Faster upload/download times
3. Easier to share or email
4. Can bundle files/folders together

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 NETWORK
Overview of Network Concepts

Topic Details
What is a Network? A network is a group of two or more computing devices (computers, printers, etc.) connected to
share resources, data, and communicate.
Aims/Objectives of a - Facilitate communication
Network - Share resources (e.g., printers, internet)
- Centralize data storage
- Improve collaboration and efficiency

Advantages and Disadvantages of Networks

Aspect Advantages Disadvantages
Easier Communication - Fast exchange of messages and data - Risk of spam or phishing
- Supports email, VoIP, video calls - May lead to digital distractions/anti social behavious
- Enables collaboration
Hardware Sharing - Reduces cost (e.g., shared printers) - Overuse of shared devices
- Saves space - Printer queues may delay tasks
Software/Data Sharing - Centralized management - Risk of unauthorized access
- Easy updates - Version conflicts if not synced properly
- Real-time collaboration
Security and Privacy - Central control over access - Vulnerable to hacking
- Password protection and encryption - Data breaches possible without proper security measures
Centralised storage -stores a vast amount of files

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 Examples of Networks
Type of Network Description Example
Internet A global network connecting millions of computers World Wide Web, Email, Cloud
Services
LAN (Local Area Connects devices in a limited area/small geographical area School network, office network
Network) (e.g., home, school, office)
HAN (Home Area A LAN within a home for personal device connectivity Connecting smart TV, smartphones,
Network) laptops, printers
PAN(Personal Area
Network)

Social and Ethical Implications

Aspect Explanation / Example
Ethical Use Users should use hardware/software responsibly and avoid harming others' systems or privacy.
Software Piracy Copying/distributing software illegally without a license.
It violates intellectual property rights.
Licensing Software often comes with a license that defines how it may be used.
Unauthorized use breaches legal agreements.
Copyright & IP Digital content (software, music, videos) is protected by copyright.

Using without permission infringes intellectual property.

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 Types of Software Licenses
License Type Definition Common Use Case Advantages Disadvantages

EULA (End User A legal agreement between the software All software, - Protects developer's - Often restrictive
License developer and the user, specifying the especially rights - Can limit user's rights
Agreement) terms under which the software can be proprietary software - Sets clear usage and freedom of use
used terms
Single-User Allows software installation and use by one Personal use, home - Simple to manage - Not scalable
License user on one device only. computer - Lower cost - Limited to one
person/device

Multi-User License Allows use by multiple users (limited Small businesses, - Cost-effective for - Number of users is
number), either on different machines or schools small groups limited
via a shared network. - Easier than buying - Needs tracking of users
many single-user
licenses

Site License Allows unlimited use of software within a Schools, universities, - Unlimited - Can be expensive
specific location or organisation. companies installations at one - Not valid outside
site licensed site
- Simplifies licensing

Subscription Allows access to software for a fixed period Adobe CC, Microsoft - Always updated - Continuous payments
License (monthly or annually). 365 - Lower upfront cost - Stops working when
subscription ends

SaaS (Software as Software is accessed via the internet, Google Workspace, - Access from - Needs internet
a Service) usually through a browser; not installed Zoom, Dropbox anywhere - Data is stored on third-
locally.

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 - No maintenance party servers (privacy
required concerns)

✅ Information Management Concepts

Topic Details

Data vs. Information Data refers to raw, unprocessed facts, figures, or symbols that lack context.

Information is data that is processed, organized, and interpreted to make it meaningful.

Example Data: "2025, 42, 98"

Information: "The number 98 refers to a student's score in an exam for the year 2025."

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 ✅ Problem Solving Steps
Step Explanation

1. Understand the Problem Clearly define what the problem or task is.
Understanding the issue is crucial before attempting a solution.

2. Identify Information Needs Determine what data and information are required to solve the problem effectively.

3. Gather Information Collect data from various sources using appropriate tools (discussed later).

4. Analyze and Interpret Evaluate and process the gathered data to identify patterns, trends, or insights that can inform the solution.

5. Develop Solutions Based on the analysis, come up with feasible solutions to address the problem.

6. Implement and Evaluate Put the solution into action, monitor progress, and evaluate its effectiveness.

Role of Questions in Problem Solving

Question Type Role in Information Management

Open-ended Questions Encourage exploration and deeper analysis of the problem and potential solutions.

Closed-ended Questions Help to confirm specific facts or details quickly.

Clarifying Questions Provide clarity to understand information more deeply.

Evaluative Questions Help assess the quality and impact of information and possible solutions.

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 ✅ Information Sources and Data Gathering Tools
Source/Tool Definition/Explanation Advantages Disadvantages
Wikipedia A free online encyclopedia that anyone can edit. - Easy to access - Reliability concerns (can be
- Broad range of topics edited by anyone)
- Continuously updated - May contain errors
Internet A vast network of online resources, including websites, - Vast amount of information - Overwhelming amount of
forums, articles, research papers, etc. - Quick access information
- Easy to navigate and find - Quality and accuracy may
resources vary
- Can lead to information
overload
Surveys/Questionnaires Tools for collecting data from individuals or groups. - Can collect large amounts - May have biased responses
of data - Time-consuming to analyze
- Helps obtain specific data
opinions and feedback
Interviews A direct method of gathering information through - In-depth responses - Time-consuming
conversation. - Provides insights into - Limited number of people
individual perspectives can be interviewed
Observations Collecting data by observing behaviours, events, or - Real-time data collection - May be subjective
processes. - Provides context to - Observer bias can affect
behaviours and actions data
Books/Academic Published research, studies, and other educational - Credible and peer- - Limited access (can be
Journals resources. reviewed expensive)
- Reliable data and - May be outdated if not
information sources current edition

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 Activity 1

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (1 mark each)

Choose the correct answer from the options given.
1. Which pointing device is most commonly built into laptops?
A. Joystick
B. Touchpad
C. Trackball
D. Stylus
2. What is a major advantage of using a stylus on a tablet?
A. Cannot be used for drawing
B. Easily misplaced
C. High precision
D. Not user-friendly
3. Which device is ideal for scanning barcodes in a retail shop?
A. Joystick
B. Barcode Scanner
C. Trackball
D. Webcam
4. A biometric device that scans your finger for access is called:
A. Webcam
B. Microphone
C. Fingerprint Scanner
D. Touchpad
5. What is a main disadvantage of touchscreens?
A. Too expensive
B. Not found in laptops
C. Difficult to use in bright light
D. Not intuitive

Section B: Match the Column (1 mark each)

Match the device in Column A with its correct function in Column B.
Column A Column B
A. OCR 1. Detects movement of finger on a flat surface
B. Touchpad 2. Used for secure access using eye patterns
C. Iris Scanner 3. Converts printed text to editable digital format
D. Webcam 4. Captures real-time video
E. Trackball 5. Allows cursor movement by rotating a ball with fingers

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Section C: Short Answer Questions
6. Give two Pointing devices for gaming.
7. What is the purpose of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) in document management
systems?
8. Name two devices that can be used for biometric authentication and state one advantage
of using biometric systems.
9. Explain how RFID is used in inventory systems and state one disadvantage of RFID.
10. Differentiate between a barcode and a QR code, mentioning one unique use of each.

Section D: Application-Based / Scenario Questions

11. Scenario: Sirantwi is a designer who needs precise control when sketching on a tablet.
a. Which input device should Lebo use?
b. Mention one advantage and one disadvantage of this device.
12. Scenario: A school wants to scan and store hundreds of paper forms digitally.
a. Which input technology should they use?
b. Mention one benefit and one limitation of this technology.

Activity 2

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (1 mark each)

Choose the correct answer from the options given.
1. Which device would be best for private listening while attending an online class?
A. Speakers
B. Headset
C. Visualizer
D. Data projector
2. Which device requires a dark room for the best visual clarity?
A. Printer
B. Headphones
C. Data projector
D. Multifunction device
3. Which output device also includes a high-resolution camera and is great for displaying
physical objects during lessons?
A. Headset
B. Multifunction printer
C. Visualizer
D. Bluetooth speaker

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 4. What is one main advantage of using speakers over headphones?
A. Private listening
B. Shared audio experience
C. Requires charging
D. Includes a microphone
5. What is a disadvantage of wireless headsets?
A. Can be used for multitasking
B. High sound quality
C. Requires batteries or charging
D. Includes built-in microphone

Section B: Match the Column (1 mark each)

Match the device in Column A with the correct feature or function in Column B.
Column A Column B
A. Visualizer 1. Includes high-resolution camera and zoom for live object
display
B. Multifunction 2. Ideal for printing, scanning, and copying in one device
Printer
C. Headset 3. Used for private listening, may include a mic
D. Data Projector 4. Displays computer screen content on a large surface
E. Bluetooth Speaker 5. Wireless audio playback device
Section C: Short Answer Questions
6. List two uses of audio output devices in an educational setting.
7. State two differences between headphones and speakers.
8. What are two advantages and two disadvantages of using a multifunction
printer in a home office?
9. Why might a teacher prefer using a visualizer over a printed worksheet in class?
10. Describe two features of a modern data projector and mention one limitation.

Section D: Application-Based / Scenario Questions

11. Scenario: Thandi is a teacher preparing for a science class and wants to
demonstrate small objects to the entire class.
a. Which device should she use?
b. Mention one feature and one disadvantage of this device.
12. Scenario: Sipho wants to play music aloud at a family event using his
smartphone.
a. Which output device should he use?
b. Give one advantage and one disadvantage of using this device in a public
space.

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 Activity 3 – Storage & Processing Components Questions

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (1 mark each)

Choose the correct answer.
1. Which of the following is a non-volatile memory used for storing essential boot
instructions?
A. RAM
B. CPU
C. ROM
D. GHz
2. What is the main function of the CPU in a computer?
A. Store files permanently
B. Display graphics on the screen
C. Execute instructions and process data
D. Connect to the internet
3. Which device is required to access data from a microSD card on a desktop PC?
A. External hard drive
B. CPU
C. Card reader
D. RAM stick
4. Which component is known as the “central communication hub” of the
computer?
A. CPU
B. Motherboard
C. RAM
D. ROM
5. What does “GHz” measure in computing?
A. Graphics speed
B. Storage capacity
C. Processing speed
D. Internet bandwidth

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Section B: Match the Column (1 mark each)
Match the component/device in Column A with its feature or use in Column B.
Column A Column B
A. RAM 1. Temporary memory for fast access while working
B. ROM 2. Used to store boot information and BIOS
C. CPU 3. Executes computer instructions and calculations
D. Motherboard 4. Connects and allows communication between all components
E. Memory Card 5. Portable storage used in mobile devices and cameras

Section C: Short Answer Questions (2–3 marks each)

6. List two advantages and two disadvantages of using a memory card.
7. What are two benefits of having more RAM in a computer?
8. Give two reasons why the CPU is often called the "brain of the computer".
9. State two differences between RAM and ROM.
10. Explain why GHz is important when choosing a CPU, and mention one
limitation of relying only on GHz for performance.

Section D: Scenario-Based / Application Questions

11. Scenario: Kabelo wants to transfer photos from his digital camera to his laptop,
but his laptop doesn’t have an SD card slot.
a. What device should Kabelo use to complete the transfer?
b. Name one advantage and one disadvantage of using this device.
12. Scenario: A learner upgrades their laptop’s RAM from 4GB to 8GB.
a. How will this upgrade benefit the learner?
b. Why is RAM not suitable for long-term file storage?
13. Scenario: Your class is comparing two CPUs: one runs at 2.5 GHz and another
at 3.6 GHz.
a. Which CPU would generally perform faster?
b. What other factors besides GHz could affect actual performance?

31
Activity 4 – System Software & Utility Programs Activity Questions

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (1 mark each)

Choose the correct answer.
1. What type of software has restricted access to its source code and requires a
paid license?
A. Firmware
B. Open Source Software
C. Proprietary Software
D. Utility Software
2. Which of the following is a utility program?
A. BIOS
B. Disk Cleanup
C. Microsoft Excel
D. Windows 10
3. What does a device driver do?
A. Cleans viruses from a system
B. Compresses and decompresses files
C. Enables communication between the OS and hardware
D. Allows users to create spreadsheets
4. Which of these peripheral devices is an input/output (I/O) device?
A. Keyboard
B. Speaker
C. Touchscreen
D. Scanner
5. What is spooling in relation to printing?
A. Restarting a printer
B. Cancelling a print job
C. Saving print jobs temporarily before printing
D. Scanning a document into memory

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Section B: Match the Column (1 mark each)
Match the feature in Column A with its function in Column B.
Column A Column B
A. Compressing 1. Reduces file size for faster sharing
Files
B. Creating 2. Connects a device wirelessly via Bluetooth
Shortcuts
C. Pairing Devices 3. Makes quick access links on desktop or taskbar
D. System Software 4. Manages and controls hardware and application
software
E. Printer Queue 5. List of print jobs waiting to be processed

Section C: Short Answer Questions (2–3 marks each)

6. Give two advantages and two disadvantages of using open-source software.
7. Name four types that are classified under system software and provide an
example for each.
8. What are two benefits of compressing files?
9. Explain the purpose of auto-configuration and give an example.
10. Describe how to change a default printer in Windows.

Section D: Scenario-Based / Application Questions

11. Scenario: Zanele installed a new printer on her PC, but her print jobs are not
coming out.
a. What tool can she use to check if the documents are waiting to print?
b. What action can she take to cancel or pause a print job?
12. Scenario: A learner wants to save space by reducing the size of a folder full of
documents and send it to a classmate via email.
a. What should the learner do to achieve this?
b. Mention one tool they can use and one common file format.
13. Scenario: You are explaining peripherals to your class.
a. Define a peripheral and explain why it is important.
b. Give an example of each: input, output, storage, and I/O device.

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Activity 5 – Network Concepts & Ethics Activity Questions

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (1 mark each)

Choose the correct answer.
1. What is the main purpose of a computer network?
A. To install software faster
B. To connect devices to share resources and communicate
C. To play games online only
D. To print directly from one computer
2. Which of the following is a LAN example?
A. WhatsApp
B. Internet
C. School computer lab network
D. Facebook
3. What is one disadvantage of centralized data storage?
A. Files are hard to access
B. Increases software costs
C. Increases risk of data breaches if security is weak
D. Requires each user to have their own printer
4. A Home Area Network (HAN) is typically used for:
A. Connecting satellites
B. Business databases
C. Personal devices in a house
D. School-wide Wi-Fi
5. Which of these is a form of software piracy?
A. Reading the license agreement
B. Downloading updates legally
C. Sharing software without a license
D. Subscribing to Microsoft 365

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Section B: Match the Column (1 mark each)
Match each type of software license to its correct description.
Column A Column B
A. EULA 1. Allows installation on unlimited devices at one site
B. Site License 2. Legal agreement defining how software is used
C. Subscription License 3. Ongoing access as long as you keep paying
D. Single-User License 4. One person, one device only
E. SaaS 5. Access via browser, not installed on device

Section C: Short Answer Questions (2–3 marks each)

6. State two objectives of using a network.
7. Name and briefly describe three types of networks, with examples.
8. Give two advantages and two disadvantages of using networks for
communication.
9. Explain what software piracy is and why it is illegal.
10. List two examples of ethical computing behaviour.

Section D: Scenario-Based Questions

11. Scenario: A school wants to connect its computers so that all learners can
access the internet and shared printers.
a. What type of network would best suit this school?
b. State two benefits of connecting the school computers to a network.
12. Scenario: Mr. Dube wants to install Microsoft Office on all 100 computers in his
company.
a. Which type of license should he buy?
b. Give one advantage and one disadvantage of this license.
13. Scenario: A learner installs a cracked version of Adobe Photoshop and shares it
with friends.
a. What unethical action is the learner committing?
b. Suggest a legal alternative to access Photoshop temporarily.

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Activity 6 – Information Management Activity Questions

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (1 mark each)

Choose the correct answer.
1. What is the main difference between data and information?
A. Data is interpreted; information is raw facts
B. Data is expensive; information is free
C. Data is raw and unprocessed; information is processed and meaningful
D. Data is always correct; information is not
2. Which step comes first in the problem-solving process?
A. Gather Information
B. Analyze and Interpret
C. Implement and Evaluate
D. Understand the Problem
3. Which of the following is an open-ended question?
A. What is your age?
B. Do you like school?
C. How do you feel about online learning?
D. Are you finished with your work?
4. What is a disadvantage of using Wikipedia as a source?
A. It has limited topics
B. It is expensive to access
C. It may be edited by anyone, which can affect reliability
D. It does not load on computers
5. Which tool provides in-depth insights through personal conversation?
A. Observations
B. Internet
C. Interviews
D. Books

Section B: Fill in the Table (1 mark each)

Complete the following by filling in the correct term or definition.
Term / Step Description
Data ___________________________________________
Step 4 of Problem ___________________________________________
Solving

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 Closed-ended ___________________________________________
Questions
Books/Journals Credible, _____________________ resources, but may be
outdated or expensive
Observations Collect data in _______________________ by watching
behaviours or events

Section C: Short Answer Questions (2–3 marks each)

6. Explain the difference between data and information, and give one example of
each.
7. List three sources/tools used to gather information and give one advantage of
each.
8. Why is it important to analyze and interpret data before making decisions?
9. What is the role of evaluative questions in problem-solving?

Section D: Scenario-Based Questions

10. Scenario: You are given a project to research how students feel about exam
stress.
a. Name two tools you could use to collect this information.
b. Which type of question (open/closed) would you use to get detailed
feedback? Explain.
11. Scenario: A learner uses only Wikipedia for a school project.
a. Give one advantage and one disadvantage of using Wikipedia.
b. Suggest another reliable source they could use and explain why.
12. Scenario: After collecting data from a questionnaire, a learner is unsure what to
do next.
a. What is the next step in the problem-solving process?
b. Why is this step important?

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