How to Answer Extended Response Questions (OCR A Level Computer Science): Revision Note

What are extended response questions?

• 9 or 12 mark questions which can appear in both paper 1 and paper 2

• They test three Assessment Objectives:

  • AO1 Knowledge: facts, definitions and key concepts

  • AO2 Application: linking knowledge to the given scenario

  • AO3 Analysis and Evaluation: explaining impacts, consequences and balanced reasoning

• To achieve top marks, you must show:

  • A balanced discussion that covers different sides of the argument

  • A sustained and logical chain of reasoning

Key command words

• Command words tell you exactly what the examiner wants you to do in the question

• They are important because each word has a specific meaning that changes how you should answer

• Using the wrong style of answer, for example, describing when asked to evaluate, will lose marks even if your knowledge is correct

• They help you structure your response in the right way, for example, giving balanced arguments when asked to discuss

• Understanding them ensures you can show your knowledge, application and evaluation clearly and reach the higher mark bands

Step 1: Understand and define AO1 knowledge

• Read the question carefully and identify the command word, such as discuss or evaluate

• Identify the key topic, for example,  students bringing their own devices

• Begin with a clear definition or explanation of the key terms

Example
A school asks its students to bring in their own electronic devices, such as tablets, laptops or mobile phones, to use in lessons instead of purchasing new equipment.

Discuss the issues surrounding students bringing their own devices. Include in your discussion ethical issues, legal issues and privacy issues.

Step 2: First point with the chain of reasoning AO2 and AO3

• Make a specific point about one issue, such as ethical, legal or privacy

• Use the X → Y → Z method

  • X is the starting factor or point

  • Y is the effect

  • Z is the consequence or impact

Example
One ethical issue is inequality. X Some students may not be able to afford good devices. Y This creates unfairness in learning opportunities. Z As a result, some students could be disadvantaged academically compared to wealthier peers.

Step 3: Balanced counterpoint AO3

• Present the opposite perspective to show balance

• Support it with reasoning and examples

Example

However, BYOD can reduce school costs. X Schools save money for other resources. Y This may improve learning overall. Z Therefore, all students could benefit indirectly.

Step 4: Add another issue for depth

• Cover a second issue, such as privacy or legality

• Use the same structure of a point plus a chain of reasoning, plus a counterpoint

Example
Privacy could be at risk if students' personal devices are hacked. X This could expose sensitive information. Y This leads to safeguarding risks for pupils. Z Schools can reduce this risk with strict security policies and training.

Step 5: Wrap up

• You should try to include a separate conclusion paragraph

• Ensure your final paragraph shows balance and brings together the points made above

• Evaluation marks are earned throughout the discussion as well as in the conclusion

Top tips for full marks

• Be specific and always link points directly to the scenario

• Use realistic examples to strengthen arguments

• Always show both sides of an argument

• Use linking words such as this leads to, as a result, consequently or therefore

• Spend about 10 to 12 minutes on an 8-mark question

• Practise with past paper questions to perfect the structure

Example exam question and model answer

Computers are now used in almost every part of daily life, from education and healthcare to entertainment and business. However, producing, using and disposing of computers can have significant effects on the environment.

Discuss the positive and negative impacts computers are having on the environment.

Model 9-mark answer

Negative impacts of computers on the environment

1. Production and transport
   The materials used to produce computers, such as metals, plastics, and rare earth elements, can have a negative environmental impact. The extraction and processing of these materials can lead to habitat destruction and water pollution. Additionally, transporting computers from manufacturing plants to consumers contributes to carbon emissions, which harms the environment.

2. E-waste and disposal
   Many digital devices have a short lifespan, and as technology advances rapidly, older devices become obsolete. These devices often end up in landfills or are sent to less economically developed countries where they are dismantled for valuable materials. The disposal of computers is a major issue, especially since they contain harmful substances like mercury, lead, and cadmium. Improper disposal can lead to pollution and health hazards for those handling e-waste.

3. Energy consumption
   As more people use digital devices, the demand for electricity increases. Computers, mobile phones, and other devices all need to be powered or charged, contributing to higher electricity consumption. This increased demand for energy leads to greater reliance on fossil fuels, which results in higher levels of carbon emissions and global warming.

Positive impacts of computers on the environment

1. Energy efficiency and automation
   Computers are used to automate systems like central heating and energy management. Smart systems can optimise energy usage, reducing waste and lowering electricity consumption. For example, automated systems can adjust heating based on room occupancy or time of day, reducing the need to use energy constantly and thus lowering overall energy consumption.

2. Reduction in paper usage
   One of the most significant environmental benefits of computers is the reduction in paper usage. Many businesses and individuals now rely on digital documents, emails, and online bill payments. This paperless approach reduces the demand for paper, leading to fewer trees being cut down and less pollution from paper production. The widespread adoption of digital communication and documentation helps conserve natural resources.

3. Less need for physical media
   Advances in digital storage have eliminated the need for physical media such as CDs, DVDs, and USB drives. This has reduced the need for plastic production, which is harmful to the environment. The shift to cloud storage and digital distribution of media, such as music and movies, reduces the production of physical products and the waste associated with their disposal.

4. Remote work and reduced commuting
   Computers have made it easier for people to work from home, reducing the need to commute. This has a significant environmental benefit: fewer people driving to work means less traffic congestion, less pollution, and a decrease in carbon emissions. The ability to communicate remotely reduces the demand for transportation and the environmental impact associated with commuting.

5. Data analysis and efficiency
   Computers can be used to analyse large sets of data to improve efficiency in various sectors. For example, businesses can use data mining to identify areas where energy consumption can be reduced or waste can be minimised. By improving operational efficiency, computers can help reduce the overall environmental impact of industries.

Evaluation

While computers have several positive impacts on the environment, such as reducing paper usage, promoting energy efficiency, and enabling remote work, their environmental impact cannot be ignored. The production of digital devices consumes resources and energy, and the disposal of e-waste remains a significant problem. However, technological advancements are being made to address these issues, such as designing more energy-efficient devices, improving recycling methods, and creating systems to reduce the need for physical materials.

On the positive side, the reduction in paper usage and physical media production significantly benefits the environment. Computers also enable more efficient use of resources through automation and data analysis. These benefits are particularly important as the world moves towards more sustainable practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while computers do have some negative environmental impacts, particularly in terms of energy consumption and e-waste, the positive impacts they have on reducing paper usage, improving efficiency, and enabling remote work are significant. The key to mitigating the environmental impact of computers lies in improving recycling practices, reducing energy consumption, and designing more sustainable devices. Therefore, I believe that the overall impact of computers on the environment can be positive if appropriate measures are taken to address the challenges they present.