IEB Computer Applications Technology: Hardware
& Software Definitions Overview
Introduction
This study guide provides key hardware and software definitions for IEB Computer Ap-
plications Technology (CAT) students (Grades 10–12), aligned with the IEB Subject
Assessment Guidelines. It includes 35 exam-style questions (15 multiple-choice, 10 short-
answer, 10 scenario-based) with verified model answers, detailed rationales, and helper
explanations to support theory exam preparation. The focus is on modular design, CPU
components, software types, and related concepts, tailored for South African students.
Exam Questions, Answers, and Helpers
1. Multiple Choice: What is the primary advantage of modular design in
computer systems? [2 marks]
A. Fixed component integration
B. Simplified repairs and upgrades
C. Increased hardware rigidity
D. Reduced system flexibility
Model Answer: B
Rationale: Modular design allows component replacement or upgrades, reducing
repair costs and enhancing flexibility, unlike fixed integration (A), rigidity (C),
or reduced flexibility (D). It supports South African students’ need for affordable
upgrades. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Hardware Section.
Helper Explanation: Modular design means you can swap out parts like RAM or a
GPU without replacing the entire system. Think of it like LEGO blocks—easy to
add or change pieces. For exams, focus on its cost-saving and upgrade benefits.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
2. Multiple Choice: Which CPU component performs arithmetic opera-
tions? [2 marks]
A. Control Unit (CU)
B. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
C. Registers
D. Cache Memory
Model Answer: B
Rationale: The ALU handles arithmetic (e.g., addition) and logic operations, unlike
the CU (A, data flow), registers (C, temporary storage), or cache (D, fast memory).
It’s critical for CPU processing. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Hardware Section.
Helper Explanation: The ALU is the CPU’s “calculator.” If a question asks about
math or logic, it’s ALU. Don’t confuse it with the CU, which directs traffic, not
calculations.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
3. Multiple Choice: What is the operating system’s primary function? [2
marks]
A. Execute user applications only
1
, B. Manage hardware resources
C. Provide internet connectivity
D. Design software interfaces
Model Answer: B
Rationale: The OS manages CPU, memory, and peripherals, unlike executing ap-
plications (A, partial function), providing connectivity (C), or designing interfaces
(D). It ensures system efficiency. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Software Section.
Helper Explanation: The OS is the system’s manager, like a school principal). It
controls hardware and runs apps. For exams, prioritize its role in resource alloca-
tion over other tasks.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
4. Multiple Choice: What is a disadvantage of overclocking a CPU? [2
marks]
A. Improved system stability
B. Reduced hardware lifespan
C. Lower power consumption
D. Enhanced cooling efficiency
Model Answer: B
Rationale: Overclocking generates heat, reducing hardware lifespan, unlike im-
proving stability (A), lowering consumption (C), or enhancing cooling (D). It risks
instability in student setups. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Hardware Section.
Helper Explanation: Overclocking pushes the CPU faster but overheats it, like
revving a car engine too long. Exam questions often test risks, so memorize “lifes-
pan” and “heat” as key downsides.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
5. Multiple Choice: Which is an example of application software? [2 marks]
A. Windows 10
B. Microsoft Word
C. BIOS
D. Device Driver
Model Answer: B
Rationale: Microsoft Word is application software for user tasks, unlike Windows
(A), BIOS (C, system software), or drivers (D, system software). It supports pro-
ductivity. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Software Section.
Helper Explanation: Application software helps users do specific tasks (e.g., writ-
ing, browsing). If it’s not an OS, BIOS, or driver, it’s likely application software.
Word is a safe bet for exam examples.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
6. Multiple Choice: What is the role of a device driver? [2 marks]
A. Manages CPU performance
B. Translates OS commands to hardware
C. Designs user interfaces
D. Executes application software
Model Answer: B
Rationale: Device drivers translate OS commands for hardware (e.g., printers),
unlike managing CPU (A), designing interfaces (C), or executing software (D). They
enable hardware communication. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Software Section.
2
& Software Definitions Overview
Introduction
This study guide provides key hardware and software definitions for IEB Computer Ap-
plications Technology (CAT) students (Grades 10–12), aligned with the IEB Subject
Assessment Guidelines. It includes 35 exam-style questions (15 multiple-choice, 10 short-
answer, 10 scenario-based) with verified model answers, detailed rationales, and helper
explanations to support theory exam preparation. The focus is on modular design, CPU
components, software types, and related concepts, tailored for South African students.
Exam Questions, Answers, and Helpers
1. Multiple Choice: What is the primary advantage of modular design in
computer systems? [2 marks]
A. Fixed component integration
B. Simplified repairs and upgrades
C. Increased hardware rigidity
D. Reduced system flexibility
Model Answer: B
Rationale: Modular design allows component replacement or upgrades, reducing
repair costs and enhancing flexibility, unlike fixed integration (A), rigidity (C),
or reduced flexibility (D). It supports South African students’ need for affordable
upgrades. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Hardware Section.
Helper Explanation: Modular design means you can swap out parts like RAM or a
GPU without replacing the entire system. Think of it like LEGO blocks—easy to
add or change pieces. For exams, focus on its cost-saving and upgrade benefits.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
2. Multiple Choice: Which CPU component performs arithmetic opera-
tions? [2 marks]
A. Control Unit (CU)
B. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
C. Registers
D. Cache Memory
Model Answer: B
Rationale: The ALU handles arithmetic (e.g., addition) and logic operations, unlike
the CU (A, data flow), registers (C, temporary storage), or cache (D, fast memory).
It’s critical for CPU processing. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Hardware Section.
Helper Explanation: The ALU is the CPU’s “calculator.” If a question asks about
math or logic, it’s ALU. Don’t confuse it with the CU, which directs traffic, not
calculations.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
3. Multiple Choice: What is the operating system’s primary function? [2
marks]
A. Execute user applications only
1
, B. Manage hardware resources
C. Provide internet connectivity
D. Design software interfaces
Model Answer: B
Rationale: The OS manages CPU, memory, and peripherals, unlike executing ap-
plications (A, partial function), providing connectivity (C), or designing interfaces
(D). It ensures system efficiency. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Software Section.
Helper Explanation: The OS is the system’s manager, like a school principal). It
controls hardware and runs apps. For exams, prioritize its role in resource alloca-
tion over other tasks.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
4. Multiple Choice: What is a disadvantage of overclocking a CPU? [2
marks]
A. Improved system stability
B. Reduced hardware lifespan
C. Lower power consumption
D. Enhanced cooling efficiency
Model Answer: B
Rationale: Overclocking generates heat, reducing hardware lifespan, unlike im-
proving stability (A), lowering consumption (C), or enhancing cooling (D). It risks
instability in student setups. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Hardware Section.
Helper Explanation: Overclocking pushes the CPU faster but overheats it, like
revving a car engine too long. Exam questions often test risks, so memorize “lifes-
pan” and “heat” as key downsides.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
5. Multiple Choice: Which is an example of application software? [2 marks]
A. Windows 10
B. Microsoft Word
C. BIOS
D. Device Driver
Model Answer: B
Rationale: Microsoft Word is application software for user tasks, unlike Windows
(A), BIOS (C, system software), or drivers (D, system software). It supports pro-
ductivity. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Software Section.
Helper Explanation: Application software helps users do specific tasks (e.g., writ-
ing, browsing). If it’s not an OS, BIOS, or driver, it’s likely application software.
Word is a safe bet for exam examples.
Marking: 2 for B; 0 otherwise.
6. Multiple Choice: What is the role of a device driver? [2 marks]
A. Manages CPU performance
B. Translates OS commands to hardware
C. Designs user interfaces
D. Executes application software
Model Answer: B
Rationale: Device drivers translate OS commands for hardware (e.g., printers),
unlike managing CPU (A), designing interfaces (C), or executing software (D). They
enable hardware communication. Links to IEB CAT SAGS, Software Section.
2
