OCR GCSE Computer Science Exam Questions

1.1 Systems Architecture

1.1 question 35

Discuss the impact of people upgrading to the latest smartphone even when their current device still works. Consider stakeholders, technology, ethical and environmental issues.

MARKS

Mark scheme

High: Thorough coverage of stakeholders (users, manufacturers), e‑waste/landfill abroad, toxic waste, resource use, digital divide, social pressure, cost, non‑upgradeable designs, proprietary tech. Clear, balanced reasoning.
Mid/Low: As per banded descriptors with fewer details/structure.

Exam guidance

Mark using the banded levels; reward well‑structured, substantiated arguments with explicit impacts.