ICT

A/A* Guide - GCSE ICT

Below are some hints and tips to ensure you gain those top marks in your

GCSE ICT Exam.

• Any part of the specification can be tested in any one paper. Just because a topic appeared in the previous year's paper, does not mean that the same topic will not be asked about again the following year.

• Make sure that you read the question closely. Always ask yourself 'Am I answering the set question?'  Taking this approach should prevent you from drifting off the set question, or worse still, totally misinterpreting it.

• Make sure that you can define accurately all of the key terms in the 'What students need to learn' column in the specification.

Summary of Question Types
Question Type	Number of Marks	Key Tip for Success
Multiple-choice	1-2	·         Read the question carefully and ensure you mark the correct number of responses asked for. DO NOT mark too few OR too many. ·         Never leave a multiple-choice question unanswered – take an educated guess if you are unsure. You need to be aiming to get full marks on this type of question if you are to achieve A/A* grades
Short Answer         Name, give, state, identify	2-3	Each response is worth one mark. Read the question carefully to ensure you understand whether the examiner is looking for you to provide a list of responses or a short phrase. You need to be aiming to get full marks on this type of question if you are to achieve A/A* grades
Open Response          Describe, explain, discuss	4	Organise your thoughts carefully. Where 4 marks are available, make 2 distinct points that are different and provide an explanation/justification for each. You need to be aiming to get a minimum of 3 marks on this type of question if you are to achieve A/A* grades
Extended Writing	6	Read the questions carefully! ·         Make sure you give advantages and disadvantages if asked and ALWAYS aim to give more than they ask (if you have time) ·         Discuss the issue/context given in the question - make sure you read who the audience is! ·         Organise your thoughts carefully. (Use the space on the page to formulate a plan) ·         Ensure your answer is developed clearly and coherently, using specialist vocabulary, paragraphs and conclusion. ·         Select and use an appropriate form and style of writing. ·         Ensure your writing is legible (not too small) and that your spelling, punctuation and grammar are accurate so that the meaning is clear. You need to be aiming to get a minimum of 5 marks on this type of question if you are to achieve A/A* grades

Final Tips

    Leave some time to double check your answers before the end of the exam.

    Underline the command word to remind yourself how you are expected to answer.

    Marks awarded for questions marked with an * will be impacted by the quality of your written communication – spelling, punctuation and grammar.