← Understanding a computer science concept
The current (2025) structure
Two topics only; each built around a supplied resource, not a self-chosen organisation.| Part | What it asks (2025) | Preparable? |
|---|---|---|
| (a) | Use the GIVEN resource to explain the mechanism + TWO advantages, then key problems/issues linked to CS concepts | Partly — know the mechanisms and common issues cold |
| (b) | Explain ONE of TWO named specific mechanisms (e.g. SHA-256 or key exchange; NLP or neural networks) | YES — prepare both, pick on the day |
| (c) | Choose ONE of TWO: a healthcare NEED it addresses, or an OPPORTUNITY it has provided | YES — prepare a healthcare example in advance |
| (d) | Choose ONE of TWO: future-proof a NAMED technology, or explain known ETHICAL ISSUES | YES — prepare both for your chosen topic |
Unlike the 2022–2023 shape, there is no organisation from part (a) to keep returning to — each part now answers its own supplied prompt. Re-read the CURRENT year's instructions before assuming this exact shape still holds.
✕Preparing an NZ organisation as your main strategy
That was the winning move for 2022–2023. In the 2025 task, the resource is supplied and part (a) is built around IT — an organisation you memorised will not fit the given diagram. Prepare the CONCEPTS (mechanisms, healthcare examples, future-proofing, ethical issues) so they transfer to whatever resource appears, and keep one organisation only as a fallback in case the shape reverts.Practice for this standard covers the whole topic — flashcards and quiz.