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Flashcards for Matching or table questions
82 cards where the term can be tested as a matching or table question. Study these as flip cards Random
Installation Process Programming Fundamentals (Year 11)
Putting the finished system into use in the client's environment (direct, phased, parallel or pilot method) including setup and training.
Example: Installation comes after testing and before maintenance.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Compare two installation methods
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods
Maintenance Process Programming Fundamentals (Year 11)
Changes made after release to keep software working and useful: corrective (fix errors), adaptive (new environment) and perfective (improve or add features).
Example: 'A patch to fix a crash is corrective maintenance.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Match each type of maintenance to an example
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: 2022 Software Design and Development HSC Q22 (6 marks): Maintenance
Imperative paradigm Term Programming Fundamentals (Year 11)
A programming style that gives the computer an ordered list of commands that change program state (for example Python procedural code).
Example: Paradigm cards: object-oriented, imperative, logic, functional.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Match each paradigm to its description
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Logic paradigm Term Programming Fundamentals (Year 11)
A programming style that states facts and rules and lets the system answer queries by logical inference (for example Prolog).
Example: 'Facts and rules, not step-by-step commands.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Functional paradigm Term Programming Fundamentals (Year 11)
A programming style that builds programs from functions, avoids changing state, and treats functions as values that can be passed around.
Example: 'Computation is the evaluation of functions.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Boundary values Term Programming Fundamentals (Year 11)
Test data at and either side of a limit of the valid range. For a valid range of 1 to 10: 0, 1, 10, 11.
Example: Valid range 18 to 65 means test 17, 18, 65, 66.
- Short answer: Select test data
- Matching or table: Complete a test data table (familiarisation Q5)
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Related past questions: Familiarisation Q5 (3 marks): Testing (test data); Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data)
Memorise: Testing and code quality (Year 11)
Path coverage Term Programming Fundamentals (Year 11)
Choosing test data so every path through the code (each branch and loop) runs at least once.
Example: 'Include one value that makes the IF true and one that makes it false.'
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Related past questions: Familiarisation Q5 (3 marks): Testing (test data)
Memorise: Testing and code quality (Year 11)
Faulty and abnormal data Term Programming Fundamentals (Year 11)
Data that is the wrong type, empty, too large or small or has odd characters, used to check the program rejects it or handles it without crashing.
Example: 'Enter "abc" where a number is expected.'
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Related past questions: Familiarisation Q5 (3 marks): Testing (test data)
Memorise: Testing and code quality (Year 11)
Object-oriented programming (OOP) Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
A paradigm that organises a program as objects, created from classes, that hold data (attributes) and behaviour (methods) and communicate by passing messages.
Example: Contrast: procedural = a list of subroutines acting on separate data; OOP = objects that own their data and methods.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Match OOP features to descriptions
- Short answer: Compare procedural programming with OOP
Related past questions: Sample exam Q24 (4 marks): Modelling tools (class diagram); 2025 HSC Q22 (3 marks): Modelling tools
Memorise: Object-oriented concepts
Encapsulation Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
Bundling an object's data and the methods that use it together in a class and restricting direct access to the data (private attributes, accessed through methods) so it stays valid and secure.
Example: 'Make balance private and change it only through deposit() so it cannot be set to a negative number directly.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Explain how encapsulation protects data
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Memorise: Object-oriented concepts
Abstraction (in OOP) Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
Hiding complex implementation detail and exposing only what is needed, so a user calls account.deposit() without knowing how it works.
Example: 'The class hides how interest is calculated; the user just calls addInterest().'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Memorise: Object-oriented concepts
Procedural programming v OOP Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
Procedural: a program is a sequence of subroutines working on shared data. OOP: data and the methods that act on it are grouped into objects, giving encapsulation, reuse through inheritance and easier maintenance.
Example: Compare pattern: 'Procedural uses functions on separate data whereas OOP keeps the data and methods together in objects.'
- Short answer: Compare procedural programming with OOP
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Memorise: Object-oriented concepts
Unit testing Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
Testing one subroutine, method or class on its own to check it works as intended.
Example: 'Test calculateGST() with several inputs.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Memorise: Testing and code quality (Year 11)
Subsystem testing Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
Testing a group of modules that work together as a subsystem, checking their interfaces and data passing.
Example: Between unit and system testing.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Memorise: Testing and code quality (Year 11)
Check this one: Not found word-for-word in the supplied syllabus, specifications, marking guidelines or notes; the definition is standard computing knowledge, so check it against your class notes.
System testing Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
Testing the complete, integrated system against the requirements.
Example: 'System test: the whole app runs end to end.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Memorise: Testing and code quality (Year 11)
Black box testing Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
Testing inputs against expected outputs with no knowledge of the internal code.
Example: 'The tester only sees what goes in and what comes out.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Compare black box and white box
Memorise: Testing and code quality (Year 11)
White box testing Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
Testing with full knowledge of the internal code, designing tests to run every path, branch and loop.
Example: 'The developer checks every branch of the IF statement.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Memorise: Testing and code quality (Year 11)
Check this one: Not found word-for-word in the supplied syllabus, specifications, marking guidelines or notes; the definition is standard computing knowledge, so check it against your class notes.
Grey box testing Term The Object-Oriented Paradigm (Year 11)
Testing with partial knowledge of the internals, a mix of black box and white box.
Example: 'The tester knows the database design but not the code.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Memorise: Testing and code quality (Year 11)
Sensor Term Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
An input device that detects something in the environment and sends the data to the controller, such as motion, light level, temperature or distance sensors.
Example: 'A light level sensor detects darkness so the lamp turns on.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Classify as sensor or actuator
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Motion sensor Term Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
A sensor that detects movement nearby, for example infrared or ultrasonic, used in alarms and automatic doors.
Example: 'A motion sensor opens an automatic door.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Light level sensor Term Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
A sensor that measures brightness, used in line-following robots and automatic lighting.
Example: 'A light sensor lets a robot follow a dark line.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Actuator Term Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
An output device that turns the controller's signal into movement or action, such as a motor, servo or hydraulic cylinder.
Example: 'The servo moves the arm.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Hydraulic actuator Term Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
An actuator that uses pressurised fluid to move a piston, giving large force, as in excavators and heavy robot arms.
Example: 'Hydraulic actuators lift the excavator arm.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
End effector (manipulator) Term Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
The tool at the end of a robotic arm that interacts with the environment, such as a gripper, welder or suction cup.
Example: 'The robotic gripper picks up the part.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Robotic gripper Term Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
An end effector with fingers or jaws that grasps and releases objects.
Example: 'A gripper picks and places items on a conveyor.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Wiring diagram Diagram Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
A diagram of the electrical connections between components using standard symbols (resistor, capacitor, diode, LED, switch, motor, voltage source), showing both power and data connections.
Example: Show power and data connections and label any component you add.
- Drawing: Draw or complete a wiring diagram
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Open-loop control Term Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
A control system that sets its output without checking the result (a timer-based sprinkler). It is simple but cannot correct errors.
Example: 'Open: the motor runs for 5 seconds regardless of distance travelled.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Compare open and closed loop
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Check this one: Not found word-for-word in the supplied syllabus, specifications, marking guidelines or notes; the definition is standard computing knowledge, so check it against your class notes.
Closed-loop control Term Programming Mechatronics (Year 11)
A control system where sensors feed the result back and the algorithm adjusts the output to reach a target (thermostat, cruise control).
Example: 'Closed: read the sensor, compare with the target, adjust the motor.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Pseudocode: Control loop with feedback
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Confidentiality Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Only authorised people can read the data; achieved with encryption and access controls.
Example: 'Encrypting medical records keeps them confidential.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Match each concept to an example (2025 Q23c)
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q23c (3 marks): Fundamental software design security concepts
Memorise: Fundamental software design security concepts (six words)
Integrity Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Data stays accurate and unchanged unless an authorised change is made; supported by hashes, validation and checksums.
Example: 'A hash value shows a file has not been altered.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q23c (3 marks): Fundamental software design security concepts
Memorise: Fundamental software design security concepts (six words)
Availability Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Authorised users can access the data and system when needed; supported by backups, redundancy and protection against denial of service.
Example: 'A backup server keeps the site available if the main one fails.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q23c (3 marks): Fundamental software design security concepts
Memorise: Fundamental software design security concepts (six words)
Authentication Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Proving that a user, device or system is who it claims to be (passwords, multi-factor, certificates).
Example: 'Login with a password and a one-time code is authentication.'
- Multiple choice: 2025 Q6: 'Ensuring that parties exchanging information are who they claim to be'
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q6 (1 mark): Web protocols; 2025 HSC Q23c (3 marks): Fundamental software design security concepts; Sample exam Q19 (4 marks): Authentication and authorisation
Memorise: Fundamental software design security concepts (six words)
Authorisation Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Deciding what an authenticated user is allowed to access or do (roles and permissions).
Example: 'A student can view marks but only a teacher can edit them.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q19 (4 marks): Authentication and authorisation; 2025 HSC Q23c (3 marks): Fundamental software design security concepts
Memorise: Fundamental software design security concepts (six words)
Accountability Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Being able to trace actions to a user or system through logs and audit trails, so people answer for what they did.
Example: 'An audit log records who changed a record.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q23c (3 marks): Fundamental software design security concepts
Memorise: Fundamental software design security concepts (six words)
Code review Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Other developers read the source code to find errors, security flaws and poor practice before release.
Example: 'Peer review spots missing input validation.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q4 (1 mark): Collaboration
Static application security testing (SAST) Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Analysing the source code without running it to find security flaws early in development; a white box method.
Example: SAST = code NOT running, source visible, early. DAST = program running, from outside, finds runtime flaws.
- Matching or table: Classify features as SAST or DAST (2025 Q13 and sample Q8)
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Distinguish SAST from DAST
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q13 (2 marks): SAST and DAST; Sample exam Q8 (2 marks): SAST and DAST
Dynamic application security testing (DAST) Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Testing the running application from the outside by sending it unexpected input to find vulnerabilities, without needing the source code; a black box method.
Example: DAST: tests while running; finds issues like XSS or broken authentication.
- Matching or table: 2025 Q13 table and sample Q8
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q13 (2 marks): SAST and DAST; Sample exam Q8 (2 marks): SAST and DAST
Vulnerability assessment Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
A systematic scan and review that identifies, ranks and reports known weaknesses in a system.
Example: 'A scanner lists out-of-date components.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Penetration testing Term Secure Software Architecture (Year 12)
Authorised, simulated attacks on a system by testers to see whether weaknesses can really be exploited.
Example: 'An ethical hacker tries to break into the login.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Domain name system (DNS) Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
The service that translates a domain name (example.com) into an IP address. Port 53.
Example: 'DNS looks up the IP address for the site name.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q6 (1 mark): Web protocols
Memorise: Applications of web programming: interactive websites, e-commerce, PWAs
HTTP Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
HyperText Transfer Protocol: the request and response protocol between browser and web server. Port 80. Not encrypted.
Example: 'http = port 80.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q6 (1 mark): Web protocols; Sample exam Q2 (1 mark): Protocols; Sample exam Q13 (3 marks): Protocols
Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
HTTPS Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
HTTP carried over SSL/TLS so data is encrypted and the server is authenticated. Port 443.
Example: 'https = port 443.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q6 (1 mark): Web protocols; Sample exam Q2 (1 mark): Protocols; Sample exam Q13 (3 marks): Protocols
Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
FTP Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
File Transfer Protocol: moves files between client and server. Port 21 (control). Not encrypted.
Example: 'Upload site files by FTP on port 21.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q13 (3 marks): Protocols
Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
Check this one: The ports are standard internet values; the syllabus names the protocols and says 'and their ports'.
SFTP Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
SSH File Transfer Protocol: an encrypted way to transfer files, normally port 22.
Example: 'SFTP is the secure alternative to FTP.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
Check this one: The school notes list SFTP as port 443, but the standard port is 22 (it runs over SSH). Learn the protocol is the secure FTP; give 22 if a port is asked and check with your teacher.
SSL and TLS Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
Secure Sockets Layer and Transport Layer Security encrypt data in transit and authenticate the server; TLS is the modern replacement for SSL. They secure other protocols (HTTP becomes HTTPS).
Example: 'TLS encrypts the connection.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q6 (1 mark): Web protocols
Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
SMTP Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
Simple Mail Transfer Protocol: sends email from a client to a server and between servers. Port 25 (587 or 465 secure).
Example: 'SMTP sends, POP3 and IMAP receive.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Match mail protocols (familiarisation Q3)
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: Familiarisation Q3 (2 marks): Mail protocols
Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
POP3 Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
Post Office Protocol 3: downloads email from the server to one device, usually deleting it from the server. Port 110 (995 secure).
Example: 'POP3 downloads and removes.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: Familiarisation Q3 (2 marks): Mail protocols
Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
IMAP Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
Internet Message Access Protocol: lets you read and manage email on the server and keeps all your devices in sync. Port 143 (993 secure).
Example: 'IMAP keeps messages on the server.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: Familiarisation Q3 (2 marks): Mail protocols
Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
Port Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
A number that identifies which service on a device receives incoming data (the IP address finds the device, the port finds the program).
Example: 'Web traffic uses 80 or 443.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q6 (1 mark): Web protocols
Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
Symmetric encryption Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
One shared secret key encrypts and decrypts; fast, but the key must be shared safely.
Example: 'Fast for large data.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Compare with asymmetric
Related past questions: Sample exam Q3 (1 mark): Encryption
Memorise: Processes for securing the web
Asymmetric encryption Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
A public key encrypts and a different private key decrypts; solves key sharing but is slower.
Example: 'HTTPS uses asymmetric encryption to share a session key.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q3 (1 mark): Encryption
Memorise: Processes for securing the web
Authentication and authorisation (web) Term Programming for the Web (Year 12)
Authentication proves who you are; authorisation decides what you can access.
Example: See the Secure Software Architecture cards.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q6 (1 mark): Web protocols
Memorise: Processes for securing the web
Shell commands (mkdir, cd, touch, cp, rm, cat, grep) Code pattern Programming for the Web (Year 12)
Command line tools used in scripts: mkdir makes a directory, cd changes directory, touch creates a file, cp copies, rm removes, cat shows file contents, grep searches a text file for a pattern.
Example: 'grep "error" log.txt searches log.txt.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Code reading: Code or algorithm reading: interpret a fragment and state its output or purpose.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Memorise: SQL vs ORM
SQL JOIN Code pattern Programming for the Web (Year 12)
Combines rows from two or more tables by matching a primary key to a foreign key (INNER JOIN ... ON a.id = b.id).
Example: 'FROM Student JOIN Class ON Student.ClassID = Class.ClassID'
- SQL: Join tables (familiarisation Q12b, sample Q17)
- Multi-select: fam Q2
- Matching or table: ORM v SQL (2025 Q9)
Related past questions: Familiarisation Q12b (3 marks): SQL (joins, AS); Sample exam Q17 (3 marks): SQL (join, filter, order); 2025 HSC Q9 (1 mark): ORM and SQL; Familiarisation Q2 (3 marks): SQL
Memorise: SQL vs ORM
Object-relational mapping (ORM) Code pattern Programming for the Web (Year 12)
A technique that lets you read and write database tables as objects in your programming language instead of writing SQL. Code is focused on object manipulation.
Example: 2025 Q9 answer: object manipulation = ORM; tables can be joined = ORM and SQL; programmers can choose the language used to access the database = ORM.
- Matching or table: 2025 Q9: match each characteristic to ORM, SQL or both
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Short answer: Compare ORM with SQL
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q9 (1 mark): ORM and SQL
Memorise: SQL vs ORM
Supervised learning Term Software Automation (Year 12)
Training on labelled data (inputs paired with correct outputs) so the model can predict the label for new data.
Example: 'Photos labelled cat or dog train an image classifier.'
- Multiple choice: 2025 Q3
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q3 (1 mark): Machine learning training
Memorise: Models of training ML
Unsupervised learning Term Software Automation (Year 12)
Training on unlabelled data so the model finds patterns or groups (clusters) by itself.
Example: 'Group customers by buying habits.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q3 (1 mark): Machine learning training
Memorise: Models of training ML
Semi-supervised learning Term Software Automation (Year 12)
Training with a small amount of labelled data and a large amount of unlabelled data.
Example: 'Label a few images, let the model help label the rest.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q3 (1 mark): Machine learning training
Memorise: Models of training ML
Reinforcement learning Term Software Automation (Year 12)
The model learns by trial and error, receiving rewards or penalties for its actions in an environment, to maximise reward.
Example: 'A robot learns to walk by being rewarded.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q3 (1 mark): Machine learning training
Memorise: Models of training ML
Direct implementation Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
The old system stops and the new one starts straight away; cheap and fast but risky.
Example: 'Switch off the old system on Friday and use the new one Monday.'
- Multiple choice: 2025 Q1 (pilot)
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Compare implementation methods (sample Q5)
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods
Memorise: Implementation (conversion) methods
Phased implementation Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
The new system is introduced in stages (one module or area at a time).
Example: 'Roll out the new timetable first, then attendance.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods
Memorise: Implementation (conversion) methods
Parallel implementation Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
The old and new systems run side by side until the new one is trusted; safe but costly.
Example: 'Run both payroll systems for a month.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods
Memorise: Implementation (conversion) methods
Pilot implementation Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
The new system is trialled by a small group or one location first, then rolled out to everyone.
Example: 'One branch tries the new system first.'
- Multiple choice: 2025 Q1: pilot
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods
Memorise: Implementation (conversion) methods
Functional testing Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
Checking that each function of the software does what the requirements say.
Example: 'Click Add to cart and check the item appears.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data)
Acceptance testing Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
The client or end users check that the finished system meets their needs before accepting it.
Example: 'The school tests the timetable system before signing off.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data)
Live data Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
Real data from the actual working environment used to test the system.
Example: 'Test with real customer orders.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Simulated data Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
Made-up data that imitates real data, used to test safely without risking real information.
Example: 'Generate 1000 fake customers.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Beta testing Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
Real users trial a near-final version of the software and report problems before the full release.
Example: 'A public beta of a new app.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Volume testing Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
Testing the system with large amounts of data to see whether it still performs.
Example: 'Load 1 million records and time the search.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Corrective maintenance Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
Fixing bugs and errors found after release.
Example: 'Patch a crash on logout.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Adaptive maintenance Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
Changing software so it works in a new or changed environment (a new operating system or law).
Example: 'Update the app for a new phone OS.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Perfective maintenance Term The Software Engineering Project (Year 12)
Improving performance or adding features after release.
Example: 'Make search faster.'
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
DFD process (circle) Diagram Diagrams and Modelling Tools (Years 11 and 12)
A circle is a process: it uses input(s) to generate output(s). Name it with a verb phrase.
Example: 'Process: Validate login.'
- Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: 2024 Software Design and Development HSC Q24 (10 marks): Social and ethical issues
Memorise: Drawing rules: DFD, structure chart, storyboard, decision tree, class diagram, ERD
Check this one: Not found word-for-word in the supplied syllabus, specifications, marking guidelines or notes; the definition is standard computing knowledge, so check it against your class notes.
DFD data store Diagram Diagrams and Modelling Tools (Years 11 and 12)
A data store is an electronic file or non-computer storage (a filing cabinet), shown as an open rectangle or two parallel lines.
Example: 'Data store: Students file.'
- Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: 2024 Software Design and Development HSC Q24 (10 marks): Social and ethical issues
Memorise: Drawing rules: DFD, structure chart, storyboard, decision tree, class diagram, ERD
DFD external entity Diagram Diagrams and Modelling Tools (Years 11 and 12)
A person, organisation or element that provides data to the system or receives data from it (shown as a rectangle).
Example: 'External entity: Customer.'
- Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: 2024 Software Design and Development HSC Q24 (10 marks): Social and ethical issues
Memorise: Drawing rules: DFD, structure chart, storyboard, decision tree, class diagram, ERD
Structure chart data couple (empty circle) Diagram Diagrams and Modelling Tools (Years 11 and 12)
An empty circle indicates data movement between subroutines (usually passed as parameters).
Example: 'An arrow with an empty circle labelled mark.'
- Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q10 (2 marks): Structure charts; Familiarisation Q4 (2 marks): Structure charts
Memorise: Drawing rules: DFD, structure chart, storyboard, decision tree, class diagram, ERD
Structure chart flag (filled circle) Diagram Diagrams and Modelling Tools (Years 11 and 12)
A filled circle indicates a flag or control variable passed between subroutines.
Example: 'Filled circle labelled Found.'
- Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q10 (2 marks): Structure charts; Familiarisation Q4 (2 marks): Structure charts
Memorise: Drawing rules: DFD, structure chart, storyboard, decision tree, class diagram, ERD
Structure chart decision (diamond) Diagram Diagrams and Modelling Tools (Years 11 and 12)
A small diamond where lines meet shows optional execution of a subroutine called as the result of a selection.
Example: 'A report is not produced each time a book is returned.'
- Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q10 (2 marks): Structure charts; Familiarisation Q4 (2 marks): Structure charts
Memorise: Drawing rules: DFD, structure chart, storyboard, decision tree, class diagram, ERD
Structure chart repetition (curved arrow) Diagram Diagrams and Modelling Tools (Years 11 and 12)
A curved arrow shows a subroutine or set of subroutines executed multiple times.
Example: 'Curved arrow over Process Item.'
- Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: Sample exam Q10 (2 marks): Structure charts; Familiarisation Q4 (2 marks): Structure charts
Memorise: Drawing rules: DFD, structure chart, storyboard, decision tree, class diagram, ERD
Identify Command word Command Words and Question-type Skills
Recognise and name.
Example: 'Identify one cause of a logic error.' Answer: one word or phrase (1 mark).
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q15b (3 marks): Testing and debugging
Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for
Classify Command word Command Words and Question-type Skills
Arrange or include in classes or categories.
Example: 'Classify features as SAST or DAST.' Answer: place each item in a category.
- Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
- Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q13 (2 marks): SAST and DAST
Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for
Matching and tables Process Command Words and Question-type Skills
Tick or match each statement to the right column (for example ORM v SQL, SAST v DAST).
Example: 2025 Q9 (ORM and SQL) and Q13 (SAST and DAST).
- Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q9 (1 mark): ORM and SQL; 2025 HSC Q13 (2 marks): SAST and DAST
Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique