GCSE ICT: Questions on Gathering Data

(Doyle chapter 3)

Part 1

  1. Explain the difference between data and information. (2)
  2. Explain the meaning of the term 'data capture'. (2)
  3. List six sources of data that can be captured by various means. (3)
  4. Describe an example of how the school kitchen might get data on pupils' preferences for lunch. (2)
  5. Describe how an organisation might obtain information on its products from the general public. (1)

Total: 10

Part 2

  1. What form of data capture is used on supermarket loyalty cards and London underground tickets? Describe briefly how the data are read from the cards. (2)
  2. What form of data capture is used on debit and credit cards? Why has this form of data capture replaced that described in question 1 for this application? (2)
  3. What form of data capture is used for capturing the data of goods sold in supermarkets and shops? (2)
  4. What is a UPC? (Try Wikipedia) Give the UPC of the text book. (2)
  5. Describe another application of the data capture techniques described in question 3. (2)

Total: 10

Part 3

  1. Describe how MICR works. Where is MICR commonly used? (2)
  2. Describe how OMR works. Give four examples of where OMR is commonly used. (4)
  3. Describe how OCR works. Where is OCR commonly used? (2)
  4. Describe a method of data capture of words that does not involve a scanning device. (2)

Total: 10

Practical:

In Fireworks use View/Grid to set up a grid with 10 pixel x 10 pixel size, snap to grid. Use the rectangle tool to create a set of MICR characters where the number of squares in each character increases with the value of the number. The difference in the size of character should make it possible to distinguish between them by the amount of magnetic ink used so they could be read by a machine. Leave space for a heading and add this with the text tool. Add your name at the bottom.

Part 4

  1. Explain what data logging is. (2)
  2. Explain the function of a sensor in data acquisition. (2)
  3. Describe the function and purpose of seven common data logging sensors. (7)
  4. List the advantages and disadvantages of data logging. (7)
  5. Give eight examples of things that can be measured with data logging techniques. (4)
  6. What is a data logger? Where would you use one? How can data be transferred from a data logger to a computer? (3)
  7. Describe three ways of transmitting data between sensor and data logger or computer. (2)
  8. Describe the sequence of steps you would go through to set up a data logging experiment. (3)

Total: 30

Part 5

Complete the Case Study at the end of the chapter.

Complete Activity 4.

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