IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1 Definitions Worksheet: 6.1 Automated Systems and 6.2 Robotics (Modules 618–631)
Name:
Date:
Class:
✎
Key terms
Write what each term means, in your own words.
1
agricultural automation
2
automatic weather station pros and cons
3
advantages and disadvantages
4
automatic lighting trade-off
5
sensor, microprocessor, actuator
6
robotics
7
robot
8
mechanical structure
9
electrical components
Answer Key
IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1 · Modules 618–631 · Student wording will vary for definitions
1agricultural automation — Sensors and actuators water crops and control climate. Pros: constant monitoring, less water wasted, less labour. Cons: high cost, sensor faults can kill crops, power cuts.
2automatic weather station pros and cons — Weigh benefits like remote sites, readings day and night and no staff at risk against cost, storm damage, power supply and remote repairs, linking each point to the scenario.
3advantages and disadvantages — Weigh the benefits of sensor-based game controls (natural, immersive, accessible) against drawbacks (hardware cost, misread movement, space needed), linking each to the scenario.
4automatic lighting trade-off — Weigh benefits (saves energy, safer at night, no switching) against drawbacks (install cost, sensor faults, animal false triggers) and link each point to the scenario.
5sensor, microprocessor, actuator — Use these terms in order in an exam answer: the sensor reads, the microprocessor compares and decides, the actuator acts. Tie each point to the scenario and explain it with 'because'.
6robotics — The branch of computer science that covers the design, construction and operation of robots.
7robot — A machine that carries out tasks automatically by following a program, usually without a person controlling each action. It does not have to look human.
8mechanical structure — The physical body or framework of a robot, such as its frame, joints, arms or wheels, that holds its parts together and lets it move. A program alone is not a robot.
9electrical components — Parts such as sensors, a microprocessor and actuators, powered through wiring, that let a robot sense its surroundings, decide what to do and then move.