End–of–Term Assessment for ICT students (Term 3)

1. What is application software? How can application software be classified?

The application software is an essential component of every computer system. The application software is usually referred to as application programs or apps. Application programs allow a user to do specific tasks. Application software can be divided into two main groups: general purpose applications and custom-made applications. (General purpose apps include software used for writing e-mails and documents, music players for listening to music and media players for watching movies. The custom-made applications are developed to meet the requirements of a specific user. Developing a tailor-made application is rather expensive). The application software can also be classified according to the platforms and technology used. There are desktop apps, mobile apps, web apps and cloud based apps. (The desktop applications are developed for desktops and laptops. A web application is a computer program that can be accessed through a web browser on any computing device. Web applications include online forms, shopping carts, word processors, spreadsheets, video and photo editing, etc. A cloud application is an Internet-based program where the processing logic and data storage is processed in the cloud)

2. What is a word processor? Describe some of its features. What is the difference between a word processor and a text editor?

A word processor is software or a device that allows users to create, edit, and print documents. It enables you to write text, store it electronically, display it on a screen, modify it by entering commands and characters from the keyboard, and print it. Most word processors are delivered either as a cloud service or as software that users can install on a PC or mobile device. All word processors support the following basic features: insert and delete text, cut and paste, copy, page size and margins, word wrap, font specifications, spell checking. (подробнее про все эти функции в A1) Full-featured word processors also support grammar checking, automated lists, graphics, headers, footers, and page numbering, layout, merge, collaboration, internet features, translation and speech. Word processors are very similar to text editors. Text editors support only the basic features. They are more commonly used by programmers who use special text editors with features designed for writing code.

3. What are the main features of a spreadsheet program?

A spreadsheet program helps you manage personal and business finances. Spreadsheets, or worksheets, are mathematical tables, which show figures in rows and columns. A cell can hold three types of data: text, numbers and formulae. Formulae are entries that have an equation which calculates the value to display; we can use them to calculate totals, percentages, discounts, etc. Spreadsheets have many- built-in functions, pre­written instructions that can be carried out by referring to the function by name.

4. Speak about a database and data types it can contain. What are relational databases?

A database is a computerized record-keeping system. Each unit of information you create is called a record and each record is made up of a collection of fields. There are different data types.

• Text - holds letters and numbers

• Number - can only hold numbers used in calculations and reports

• Memo - can store long texts

• Date/Time - a date or time or combination of both

• AutoNumber - assigns a number to each record

• OLE Object - (object linking and embedding) holds sounds and pictures

• Yes/No - for alternative values like true/false, yes/no, on/off, etc.

• Hyperlink - adds a link to a website

Once you have added data to a set of records, indexes must be created to help the database find specific records and sort (classify) records faster. Extracting information from a database is known as performing a query. Two database files can be related if they hold a piece of data in common. Common field can be used to link the two files together. This type of database is called relational database.