FORM TWO COMPUTER STUDIES STRUCTURED QUESTIONS
Based on the Kenya Secondary School Syllabus — Excludes Spreadsheets
and Databases, Includes All Form 1 Topics and DTP Introduction
1. Introduction to Computers
1. Define the term “computer” and explain how the modern definition has
evolved over time. (3 marks)
2. Describe the three main classifications of computers and give an
example of each. (6 marks)
3. Explain how computers are applied in at least four different fields
today. (4 marks)
4. Discuss any five safety precautions that should be observed in a
computer laboratory. (5 marks)
5. Describe the correct procedure for booting a computer and explain the
importance of each step. (5 marks)
2. Computer Systems
6. With the aid of a well-labeled diagram, describe the functional
organization of a computer system. (6 marks)
7. Explain the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory and
give two examples of each. (4 marks)
8. Discuss the role of interface and power cables in a computer system,
including examples. (4 marks)
9. Describe five factors to consider when selecting a computer system for
a school. (5 marks)
10. Distinguish between system software and application software
and explain how each contributes to the functioning of a computer. (6
marks)
3. Operating Systems
11. Define an operating system and explain four key functions it
performs. (5 marks)
12. Describe three types of operating systems based on:
Number of users
Number of tasks
User interface (6 marks)
13. Using practical examples, explain how an operating system
manages:
Files
Disks
Hardware devices (6 marks)
14. Explain the steps required to install and configure a new
operating system. (5 marks)
15. A student accidentally deleted files from a flash disk. Explain how
the operating system can help in recovering or preventing permanent
loss. (3 marks)
4. Word Processing
16. Differentiate between a word processor and a text editor. Give
two examples of each. (5 marks)
17. Describe five types of formatting options available in a word
processor. (5 marks)
18. Outline the steps of creating and editing a mail merge document
for school fee reminders. (6 marks)
19. A student needs to write a report with a table, numbered
headings, headers, and footers. Explain how this can be achieved in a
word processor. (6 marks)
20. Evaluate the advantages and limitations of using word
processors in modern offices. (4 marks)
5. Desktop Publishing (DTP) – Introduction Only
21. Define Desktop Publishing and differentiate it from word
processing. (3 marks)
22. Explain two main types of DTP software and give an example of
each. (4 marks)
23. Describe any four purposes of DTP in today’s communication. (4
marks)
24. Discuss three advantages of using DTP software when creating
professional documents. (3 marks)
25. Suggest three types of publications that can be created using
DTP and describe the typical layout of any one. (6 marks)
6. Internet and Email
26. Explain the evolution of the internet and its impact on
communication. (4 marks)
27. Describe how hyperlinks and search engines work in accessing
information. (4 marks)
28. Discuss any four services available on the internet and their real-
life applications. (6 marks)
29. List five features of a standard email interface and explain the
role of each. (5 marks)
30. Suggest measures that can be taken by learners to protect
themselves from harmful content online. (3 marks)
7. Data Security and Controls
31. Define the following terms:
Data security
Data privacy
Computer crime (3 marks)
32. Identify and explain four threats to data security. (4 marks)
33. Describe how firewalls and user access levels help in controlling
access to ICT systems. (4 marks)
34. Explain three laws or policies that govern data security in Kenya.
(6 marks)
35. A school computer lab experiences frequent unauthorized
access. Propose five practical measures that could be taken to
enhance its security. (5 marks)
