Explain why a DTP application would be preferred to a word processing application when designing a publication

Source: KCSE Computer Studies 2013 - Paper 1
Question Number: 11,12,13,14,15

11. The 21st century has had many forms of ICT technologies improving the various means of communication. However, these changes have brought many challenges.
State three negative social impacts of these technologies. (3 marks)

From Topic: Impact of ICT on the society
From Subtopic: Cultural effects
Question Level: Form 4

Expected Responses
Negative social impact of ICTs

1. Internet addiction
2. Privacy violation
3. Exploitation (sexual) through Pornography
4. Crime - fraud on the Internet
5. Cyber terrorism
6. Recruitment to drug trafficking/drug abuse

Any 3 @ 1 mark each = (3 marks)

​12. Explain why a DTP application would be preferred to a word processing application when designing a publication. (2 marks)

From Topic: Desktop Publishing, Word processors
From Subtopic: Features of DTP, Features of Word processors
Question Level: Form 2

Expected Responses 
DTP is designed with facilities to support and manipulate graphics that are not found in traditional word processors. e.g.. the facilities are such as page layout, colour libraries and object layering. (2 marks)

13. A computer is idle but the hard disk light is blinking, indicating some activity. State two possible causes of this. (2 marks)

From Topic: Computer Systems
From Subtopic: The CPU, The Operating Systems
Question Level: Form 1

Requirements
Candidates were required to state what causes a hard disk light to blink when a computer is idle.
Weaknesses
Most of the candidates could not answer the question correctly. The question was too difficult for the candidates.
Expected responses
Possible causes of Hard disk blinking.

1. Virus executing itself.
2. Updating of some software applications.
3. Network access taking place.

Advice to the teachers
Teachers ought to emphasize on application questions.

14. Describe compatibility as a factor to consider when purchasing a computer. (2 marks)

From Topic: Computer Systems
From Subtopic: Criteria for selecting a Computer System (Specifications)
Question Level: Form 1

Expected Responses

• Compatibility with available software. Being able to have the available software installed.
• Having the available peripherals in the market being able to be connected. (2 marks)

​15. Identify the appropriate output device for the production of each of the following:

From Topic: Computer Systems
From Subtopic: Input Devices, Output Devices
Question Level: Form 1

(a) receipts where carbon copies are required; (1 mark)

impact printers e.g. dot matrix and daisy wheel printer

(b) an architectural drawing where precision is required; (1 mark)

plotter

(c ) output where the user is visually impaired. (1 mark)

speakers/ braille.

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