Level 1: Foundation Builder (Aiming for a PASS / 'C' Grade)

1. List: Name two input devices and two output devices.

2. Identify: What is the "brain" of the computer called?

3. Define: What is a computer network?

4. State: What do the acronyms LAN and WAN stand for?

5. Identify: Look at the back of a computer. What is the most common type of port used to connect a pen drive or a modern mouse?

6. Recall: What is the function of a monitor?

7. List: Name the four main classifications of computers by size.

Level 2: Concept Connector (Aiming for a 'B' Grade)

1. Explain: What is the key difference between a supercomputer and a microcomputer (like a desktop PC) in terms of their typical use?

2. Describe: Explain the function of a router in connecting your home computer to the internet.

3. Compare: Compare the Star and Bus network topologies. What is the main disadvantage of the Bus topology if the central cable breaks?

4. Explain: Why is sharing resources (like a printer) a major advantage of using a computer network in a school or office?

5. Differentiate: Explain the difference between guided media (like fibre-optic cables) and unguided media (like Wi-Fi signals).

Level 3: 'A' Grade Challenge (Aiming for an 'A' Grade)

1. Design: Your school principal wants to set up a new computer lab with 15 computers, one server, and one shared printer, all connected to the internet.

• Draw a simple diagram of the network topology you would recommend.

• Justify why you chose this topology.

• List the key networking hardware (e.g., cables, switch, router) you would need.

1. Analyze: A bank in Sri Lanka uses a mainframe computer system. A small graphic design studio uses several high-end microcomputers. Analyze why their choice of computer type is appropriate for their specific needs.

2. Problem-Solving: A user reports that their new printer is not working after plugging it into their computer. Besides a faulty cable, what is the most likely reason related to the computer's system that could be causing this issue? (Hint: Think about signals and ports).

Exam Tip for Chapter 2: Diagrams are powerful! For questions about network topologies, always draw a clear, labelled diagram. It can get you marks even if your written explanation is short.