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1CP2-P-3.1 The stored-program concept

Part 1 of 7 · 1CP2-P-3 · Architecture and storage

The opening architecture worksheet, establishing what the stored-program concept actually claims before any component is named.

Students will:

  • define the stored-program concept accurately
  • follow a program from a stored file to a running process
  • state one benefit over a machine wired for one fixed task
  • distinguish the role of main memory from that of storage
  • correct the common claim that a program stays in RAM forever

Inside: 5 explanation cells, 3 multiple-choice questions, 2 fill-in-the-blanks cells and 3 written answers. 16 marks, about 45 minutes.

Series: 1CP2-P-3 · Architecture and storage, part 1 of 7.

Shared by Coding PathwayVerified teacher

  • 13 cells
  • About 45 minutes
  • CC BY-SA 4.0
  • Shared 17 Aug 2026

Preview

The whole resource, exactly as a class sees it. Answers and marking are held back.

The stored-program concept

A computer needs both instructions and data. The von Neumann stored-program concept places the program instructions and the data they process in the same main memory while the program is running.

This foundation explains why a general-purpose computer can change tasks by loading a different program rather than being physically rewired.

1. One shared main memory

The stored-program conceptCPUfetches instructionsprocesses dataMain memory (RAM)instructionsdatafetch instructionread or write dataOne shared memory stores both instructions and data.

Instructions and data are represented in binary and stored in addressable locations in RAM. The CPU repeatedly fetches an instruction, interprets it and carries it out. Unless an instruction changes the route, instructions are normally fetched in sequence.

RAM is volatile: its contents are lost when power is removed. Programs kept long term are loaded from secondary storage into RAM before the CPU runs them.

Fill in the blanks3 marks
In a von Neumann system, program gap 1 and gap 2 share main memory. The CPU can then repeatedly fetch an instruction from gap 3.
  • data
  • instructions
  • RAM
  • secondary storage
  • signals
Multiple choice1 mark

Which statement best defines the stored-program concept?

  • AEvery program is permanently built into the CPU.
  • BInstructions and data are held together in main memory while a program runs.
  • COnly data is stored; instructions arrive from input devices.
  • DPrograms can run directly from optical discs without main memory.

2. From stored file to running program

  1. A program is kept persistently on secondary storage.
  2. The operating system loads required instructions and data into RAM.
  3. The CPU fetches instructions from RAM.
  4. The CPU decodes and executes them.
  5. The cycle continues, with branches able to change which instruction comes next.

Secondary storage and RAM therefore have different roles. Persistent storage keeps the file; RAM holds the active working copy.

Fill in the blanks3 marks
A program is kept long term on gap 1, loaded into gap 2, then its instructions are processed by the gap 3.
  • CPU
  • RAM
  • address bus
  • secondary storage
Written answer2 marks

Explain one benefit of storing program instructions in memory rather than wiring a computer for one fixed task.

Link loading a different instruction sequence to flexibility.

Students type their answer here.

3. Do not confuse storage roles

Main memory is not the same as secondary storage. RAM gives the CPU fast access to the active instructions and data but is volatile. Secondary storage is non-volatile and keeps programs and data when the power is off, but the CPU does not use it as the normal instruction-working area.

Multiple choice1 mark

A computer is switched off normally. Which statement is accurate?

  • ARAM keeps the running program permanently.
  • BThe CPU stores every program in its ALU.
  • CSecondary storage retains program files; RAM loses its active contents.
  • DThe address bus becomes permanent storage.
Written answer3 marks

A digital display device can run a timetable program today and a visitor-information program tomorrow using the same processor. Explain how the stored-program concept enables this.

Use main memory, instructions and CPU in a linked explanation.

Students type their answer here.

Written answer2 marks

Correct this statement: 'The stored-program concept means a program stays in RAM forever.'

Distinguish where a file persists from where it is held while running.

Students type their answer here.

Multiple choice1 mark

What does main memory contain while a program is running?

  • AOnly the program's output
  • BOnly the program's data
  • CRequired program instructions and data
  • DOnly files deleted from storage

Route forward

You understand where active instructions and data are held. Next you will identify the processor components, registers and buses that move and process them.