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J277 1.2 Memory and storage consolidation
Part 6 of 6 · J277 1.2.1-1.2.3 · Memory and storage
The end-of-topic checkpoint for memory and storage, pulling together primary storage, virtual memory, storage technologies and data units.
Students will:
- recall the whole topic without scaffolding
- correct flawed statements about memory and storage
- calculate capacities and show the working
- recommend storage for a stated user and justify it
- write a developed answer under exam conditions
Inside: 3 explanation cells, 2 multiple-choice questions, 1 fill-in-the-blanks cell and 8 written answers. 54 marks, about 75 minutes.
Series: J277 1.2.1-1.2.3 · Memory and storage, part 6 of 6.
Shared by Coding PathwayVerified teacher
- 14 cells
- About 75 minutes
- CC BY-SA 4.0
- Shared 17 Aug 2026
- Updated 9 Sept 2026
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The whole resource, exactly as a class sees it. Answers and marking are held back.
Memory and storage 6: consolidation
This worksheet brings together primary storage, virtual memory, secondary storage and data units. A short reminder is built into each section, but most questions ask you to apply your knowledge independently.
You will practise OCR-style recall, correction, comparison, calculation and scenario application. Show working for calculations and apply every recommendation to the stated user.
Use the early tasks to identify gaps, then complete the application and final challenge independently.
Which four statements are accurate? Select all that apply.
- ARAM stores data and instructions currently in use
- BSecondary storage is needed only when RAM is full
- CROM is non-volatile and can store fixed start-up or control instructions
- DVirtual memory is located in cache
- EVirtual memory uses a section of secondary storage
- FSecondary storage retains files when power is removed
- CPU core
- secondary storage
- RAM
- virtual memory
- optical disc
- ROM
- cache
Explain why a general-purpose computer needs both primary storage and secondary storage.
Give a distinct purpose for each. Do not answer with examples alone.
Students type their answer here.
A student writes, “When ROM fills up, data is moved to a section of primary storage called virtual memory. The CPU then processes it there.” Rewrite this explanation accurately.
Correct the trigger, location, first transfer, return transfer and where data must be before use.
Students type their answer here.
Which three matches are most suitable? Select all that apply.
- AFast storage in a frequently moved laptop: optical disc
- BLow-cost, high-capacity fixed backup: magnetic HDD
- CPortable camera storage: solid-state memory card
- DPermanent working memory for open programs: DVD
- ELow-cost physical distribution to compatible players: optical disc
A wildlife filmmaker needs a portable drive for large video files while travelling. Compare an HDD and an SSD, then recommend one. Use three relevant storage characteristics.
State a characteristic for both devices where possible, apply it to travel or large files, and make a clear final choice.
Students type their answer here.
Using 1 GB = 1,000 MB, calculate how many complete 240 MB video files fit in 6 GB of free space. Show your working.
Convert the capacity to MB before dividing.
Students type their answer here.
A backup contains 2,400 files of 5 MB each. Calculate the total capacity required in GB using 1 GB = 1,000 MB. State whether a 16 GB device has enough space.
Multiply first, convert to GB, then compare with the device capacity.
Students type their answer here.
Integrated scenario
A school is purchasing laptops for students. Each laptop has:
- 8 GB RAM
- 256 GB solid-state secondary storage
- ROM containing start-up instructions and fixed firmware
Students will run several applications, carry the laptops between lessons and save large media projects. Use this information in the next two responses.
Explain the different roles of RAM, ROM and the SSD in the school laptop.
For each one, identify what it stores and whether its contents remain without power.
Students type their answer here.
A student opens so many large applications that the laptop runs short of RAM. Explain what may happen and why performance may fall.
Describe the complete virtual-memory process and connect secondary-storage access to performance.
Students type their answer here.
Challenge: the school can either buy laptops with more RAM or replace the 256 GB SSD with a larger but slower magnetic HDD. Evaluate how each change would affect the students and recommend which upgrade should be prioritised.
Separate working-memory capacity from long-term storage capacity. Consider multitasking, virtual memory, access speed, movement, durability, capacity and cost.
Students type their answer here.
Final memory and storage check
You should now be able to answer all of these without notes:
- Why are both primary and secondary storage required?
- What are the purposes and characteristics of RAM, ROM and cache?
- Why is virtual memory needed, and how does data move?
- Why can virtual memory reduce performance?
- Which devices use magnetic, optical and solid-state storage?
- How do the six storage characteristics affect a recommendation?
- How are data units ordered and converted?
- How do you calculate a total capacity or number of complete files?
Return to any prompt that you cannot yet explain in a full sentence.