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J277 1.1 Systems architecture consolidation

Part 6 of 6 · J277 1.1 · Systems architecture

The end-of-topic checkpoint for OCR J277 section 1.1, mixing recall with applied scenarios and focused written answers.

Students will:

  • recall CPU purpose, components and performance factors without support
  • apply Von Neumann architecture and the four required registers
  • explain the fetch-execute cycle in an unfamiliar context
  • choose a processor for a scenario and justify the choice
  • develop clear explanations that link a computing idea to its effect

Inside: 5 text sections, 2 completion activities, 8 written answers. 27 marks. Suggested teaching time: 40–60 minutes. 1 diagram.

Includes a teacher guide with suggested sections, timings and common misconceptions.

Series: J277 1.1 · Systems architecture, part 6 of 6.

Shared by Coding PathwayVerified teacher

  • 15 cells
  • About 45 minutes
  • CC BY-SA 4.0
  • Shared 17 Aug 2026
  • Updated 27 Oct 2026

Preview

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

Systems architecture consolidation

Start with the recall questions, then apply your knowledge to the examples. Attempt each answer from memory before checking earlier worksheets. Feedback on the completion questions is held for review.

Written answer2 marks

Describe the purpose of the CPU.

Students type their answer here.

Fill in the blanks4 marks
(a) The component that coordinates operations: Answer 1. (b) The component that performs arithmetic and logic: Answer 2. (c) Storage for frequently used data and instructions: Answer 3. (d) Small CPU storage locations for particular current values: Answer 4.
Written answer3 marks

State three CPU characteristics that can affect performance.

Give three different characteristics, one per line.

Students type their answer here.

1. Apply register roles

The memory diagram contains an instruction and a data value. The following parts describe separate moments during processing.

Memory addresses and their contents A single memory contains two illustrated locations. Address 63 contains an instruction, shown in words. Address 64 contains the data value 22. Addresses identify locations; contents are stored at those locations. One memory Address Contents 63 Compare a reading 64 22 The instruction is shown in words here. Instructions and data share this memory.
Fill in the blanks4 marks
These describe separate moments. Give the register name or requested value. (a) The CPU will next fetch from address 63. Before that fetch, this address is held in the Answer 1. (b) The CPU reads location 64. The MAR holds Answer 2. (c) The value 22 is transferred from memory to the CPU in the Answer 3. (d) An ALU result of 9 can be stored in the Answer 4.
Written answer2 marks

Explain the difference between the roles of 64 and 22 in the memory diagram.

Students type their answer here.

Written answer2 marks

Describe what happens during the fetch-execute cycle.

Students type their answer here.

2. Choose for the workload

A school's reception computer runs a program that mainly uses one core. The processors below are otherwise comparable.

ProcessorClock speedCache sizeCores
P4.1 GHz8 MB4
Q3.2 GHz8 MB8
Written answer4 marks

Recommend processor P or Q for this program. Explain how clock speed and number of cores support your recommendation.

Students type their answer here.

Written answer2 marks

Another program repeatedly uses the same data and instructions. Explain why a larger cache could improve its performance.

Students type their answer here.

3. Apply embedded-system characteristics

A bridge has a built-in controller with its own processor and fixed control program. It monitors vibration readings and activates warning signs when a safety limit is exceeded.

Written answer2 marks

Give two different characteristics that make the bridge controller an embedded system. Apply each to the bridge.

Students type their answer here.

Written answer2 marks

Give another example of an embedded system and describe its specific purpose.

Students type their answer here.

4. Review one answer

Choose one answer you would improve. Use the matching teaching worksheet to check the idea, then improve that answer.