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Progressive web app (PWA)

Term Key terms bank Y12 Programming for the Web

Definition

A web application that works like a native app: installable, works offline and loads quickly using a service worker and cache, can send push notifications and runs on any device with a browser.

Example: 2025 Q16a marker note: give features specific to a PWA (offline use, pre-caching, notifications) and link to the scenario.

Found in: syllabus, 2025 HSC marking guidelines, sample exam and familiarisation guidelines, school notes.

Short version to memorise (key terms bank)

Installable, offline-capable web app (service worker, manifest, HTTPS).

Where it is used in the test

Syllabus area: Y12 Programming for the Web.

Question types it can appear in

Where it has appeared in the paper

Programming for the Web (Part A). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

Related past questions

These are the questions the flashcard set links to this term. Open each one and compare your answer with its marking criteria.

Other questions that mention it

Study links

How to use it in an answer

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“A web application that works like a native app: installable, works offline and loads quickly using a service worker and cache, can send push notifications and runs on any device with a browser.” Then apply it: 2025 Q16a marker note: give features specific to a PWA (offline use, pre-caching, notifications) and link to the scenario.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

From the linked past questions
  • Compare: Show how things are similar or different. (2025 HSC Q16a (3 marks): Progressive web apps)

Technique for the question types

What the marking guidelines and feedback say

2025 HSC Q16a (3 marks): Progressive web apps

Answers could include: some PWAs prompt for initial installation or setup which might deter some users. Marker feedback: link to the scenario (location, weather updates, notifications); use a common characteristic to show similarity/difference; give features specific to a PWA or interactive website, not general terms. NOTE: the NESA mapping grid lists 16(a) as load times and 16(b) as PWAs, but the MG body and the sample full-mark responses show 16(a) = PWA compare, 16(b) = load time.

Worked answers from the marking guidelines

2025 HSC Q16a (3 marks): Progressive web apps (3 marks): criteria and sample answer

Criteria

3: Compares the use of a PWA with an interactive website for the weather app. 2: Outlines features of a PWA and/or interactive website. 1: Identifies a feature of a PWA or an interactive website.

Sample answer

Both PWAs and interactive websites are platform-independent, allowing users to access the app on any device with a browser. PWAs can pre-cache updates to enable offline updates when a stable internet connection is not available but may not provide real time updates for the most recent changes to weather or warnings. Meanwhile, interactive websites require a constant internet connection to provide any updates.

Open the question page

Common mistakes

General advice
  • Use the term exactly as the syllabus words it, then link it to the scenario in the question; the 2025 feedback repeatedly rewards using the stimulus.
  • Answer the command word: outline gives main points only, explain gives a reason or cause, discuss gives both sides.

Same group in the syllabus: Interactive website · E-commerce · Data packet · IP address and IPv4 · Domain name system (DNS)

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