Advanced level 2026 North West mock computer science 3

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Part 9: Problem Solving & Advanced Programming

The Labyrinth of Eldoria: Minimum Energy Path

This practical task involves using dynamic programming to find the least energy-consuming path through a $4 \times 4$ grid, moving only right or down.

Problem Analysis:

• Input: A grid of energy values (e.g., $4 \times 4$ labyrinth).

• Process: 1. Initialize a 2D array energyGrid.

  2. Fill the first row and column by accumulating energy.

  3. For all other tiles, calculate the minimum energy by choosing the smaller value from the top or left neighbor and adding the current tile’s energy.

• Output: 1. The total minimum energy required to reach the treasure chamber (bottom-right).

  2. A grid representing the path taken (marked with 1s).

Example Test Case:

• Minimum Energy: 12

• Path Taken:

  1 1 1 0
  0 0 1 1
  0 0 0 1
  0 0 0 1
  

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Part 10: Examination Questions (Theoretical Overview)

1. Hardware & System Architecture

• Storage Media Classification: Complete the table based on technology and access methods.

  | Memory | Technology Use | Method of Accessing Data |

  | :— | :— | :— |

  | Magnetic Tape | Magnetic | Sequential |

  | Flash Drive | Solid State | Random |

  | Solid State Drive | Solid State | Random |

  | CD-RW | Laser/Optical | Random |

• The Machine Cycle: Provide a well-annotated diagram explaining the Fetch-Execute cycle.

• Cloud Computing: Define the term and explain two services (e.g., SaaS, IaaS, or Cloud Storage).

2. Programming Logic & Flowcharts

A program is needed to calculate the average of two test marks ($T1, T2$) and determine if a student has “Passed” ($\geq 10$) or “Failed”.

• Key Definitions:

  • Program: A set of instructions written in a programming language.

  • Variable: A named storage location in memory.

  • Data Type: A classification of data which tells the compiler how the programmer intends to use the data (e.g., Integer, Real/Float).

• Algorithm Task: Represent the provided pseudocode using a standard flowchart.

3. Logic Gates & Digital Imaging

• Logic Gates: Sketch and clearly label the inputs and outputs for XOR, NAND, and NOR gates.

• Pixel Representation: * Define a Pixel.

  • Explain how a black and white bitmapped image uses bits (1 for Black, 0 for White) to encode data row-by-row in memory locations.

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Category: Computer Science / Programming & Problem Solving

Tags: #DynamicProgramming #CProgramming #LogicGates #Flowcharts #DatabaseSystems #Mock2026