Environmental impacts & data privacy – GCSE Computer Science exam questions with mark scheme

1Grade 4–54 marks

(a) Describe two negative environmental impacts of digital technology. [2]

(b) Describe two ways in which digital technology can benefit the environment. [2]

(a) One negative impact described, from: energy used by devices / data centres, often generated from fossil fuels (CO₂ emissions); data centres need cooling, using energy / water; mining of rare / finite metals for components damages habitats; e-waste – old devices go to landfill / are exported, toxic chemicals leak out(1)
(a) A second, different negative impact from the list above. Ignore 'pollution' or 'bad for the environment' without saying what causes it(1)
(b) One benefit described, from: smart sensors / systems reduce energy use (e.g. smart thermostats, lighting); video calls / remote working / online shopping reduce travel and emissions; computer monitoring / modelling of climate, pollution or wildlife; less paper used (digital documents)(1)
(b) A second, different benefit from the list above(1)
Answer: Negative: energy use, mining, e-waste. Positive: smart energy control, less travel, environmental monitoring.
Examiner tip: 'It is bad for the environment' is not a description – say what is used or released and why.

2Grade 4–54 marks

A smartphone app records the user's location throughout the day to suggest nearby shops.

Explain two privacy concerns about this app. [4]

First concern identified, e.g. the location data could be shared with / sold to third parties (e.g. advertisers)(1)
Expansion, e.g. without the user fully understanding / giving informed consent, so they lose control of their personal data(1)
Second, different concern identified, e.g. the stored data could be stolen in a data breach / hacked; allow the data could be accessed by the government / police; allow data kept for longer than needed(1)
Expansion, e.g. criminals / others could learn the user's home address / daily routine / when their home is empty, and the user could be tracked or stalked. Max 2 marks per concern; the two concerns must be different(1)
Answer: e.g. data sold to third parties without informed consent; data breach revealing home address and routine
Examiner tip: Each 'explain' needs a point AND a consequence – two marks per concern.

Book a free introductory session and we'll find exactly which step is costing you.