Unit 4 - 10%

Task 4: Developing Software Theory Test

Theory test on Unit 4 Developing software: software types, utilities, licensing, SDC stages, user needs and interface factors.

Open Resource Pack Open Task 4 theory prep hub

Assessment Details

Type
Test
Timing
Week 3
Weighting
10%
Topics
Software typesUtility softwareLicensingSDC stagesUser needsUser interface

Task Overview

Task 4: Software Development Theory Test

Outline Reference

  • Assessment type: Theory test
  • Task weighting: 10%
  • Unit: Unit 4
  • Timing: Term 3, Week 3
  • Dates (2026): Monday 3 August to Friday 7 August
  • Total marks: 50
  • Conditions: supervised, closed-book, individual written test

Purpose

Assess knowledge, understanding and application of the Unit 4 Developing software content.

Assessed Content

This task assesses:

  • purpose and function of software to operate a computer system
  • operating systems
  • utility software, including file compression, defragmenter, anti-virus and anti-malware
  • application software
  • requirements for software licensing, including freeware, open source and shareware
  • stages of the Software Development Cycle (SDC):
    • state the problem
    • plan and design
    • develop the solution
    • test the solution
    • evaluate the solution
  • factors affecting the development of software:
    • user needs
    • user interface
  • applying software development requirements to scenario-based questions

Student Preparation Hub

Website location:

/computer-science/task-4-software-theory-prep

The hub is organised so students learn from the Unit 4 theory pages before moving into test practice. It includes:

  • links to the Unit 4 theory pages
  • study notes
  • flashcards
  • topic quizzes
  • SDC order practice
  • software and licensing matching
  • written scenario practice
  • timed mock theory test

Evidence and Submission

  • Completed test paper under supervised conditions.
  • Mark entered into the course marks book.
  • Marked script retained for moderation evidence.

Conditions

  • Closed book.
  • No internet, notes, AI assistance or communication with other students.
  • Time and conditions set by school assessment policy.

School Policy (Assessment and Reporting)

  • Missed assessments: absent without a valid reason may incur a penalty decided by the HOLA; unavoidable absence is completed on return.
  • Absences: parent notification required; sickness/misadventure form for formal assessments; medical certificate may be required.
  • Extensions: request to the HOLA before the due date; acceptable reasons include illness/injury/personal circumstances; adjusted date is generally within two days of return.
  • Late submissions: late without acceptable reason receives a percentage penalty set by the teacher in consultation with the HOLA.
  • Academic integrity: no cheating, collusion, plagiarism, or AI-generated work; correct acknowledgment required.
  • Authentication: drafts/checkpoints may be required; in-class validation may be used.

Glossary Verbs (Use Consistently)

  • Describe: provide characteristics and features.
  • Explain: relate cause and effect; provide why/how.
  • Apply: use in a particular situation.
  • Justify: support an answer with reasons.