There are three main Key Skills - ICT, Communications and Number. Why are these subjects linked?

One part of the Keys Skills ICT Level 3 course requires you to produce a portfolio of evidence to present researched information. The second part requires you to pass a test, possibly using word processing, spreadsheet and database programs. Explain why skills in Communications and Number are necessary when working on Key Skills in ICT at Level 3.

Being able to type quickly can save you time and money, whether you're at home, school, college or university. Good keyboarding skill (also known as 'touch typing') are an advantage whether you're surfing the net, chatting online or preparing work. What exactly are keyboarding skills and how can you obtain them?

So your computer is slowing down. It's pretty frustrating trying to call up that downloaded website of your favourite band because of the time it takes. And what about all those picture files you've created? "Housekeeping" on computers is as important as housekeeping at home. Discuss examples of good practice, including how to keep your files in order and how to use system tools to clean up.

You can use tables in a word processing program to store numbers. You find the word processing package easy to use. So why would you want to use a spreadsheet? Discuss the main benefits of using a spreadsheet program over a word processing package for storing numbers.

Spreadsheets can be used as a database. For instance, in Excel you can add a filter that will help you to sort data more quickly. Therefore, why do people use dedicated database programs, such as Access, to store data? What, are the advantages and disadvantages of using a database program rather than a spreadsheet program?

It is possible to get data from one program and import it into another program. For instance, the Key Skills ICT test at Level 3 requires you to import text from Notepad into a word processor, spreadsheet or database document. What are the benefits of being able to transfer data from one program to another? What are the difficulties?

Word processing enables you to import graphics, split text into tables or columns, add borders and shading, format text, etc. Why, then, are there dedicated desktop publishing packages? What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a desktop publishing package, rather than a word-processed document?

Overhead projectors are still widely used, despite the availability of dedicated presentation programs like PowerPoint. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using presentation methods such as PowerPoint, rather than more traditional overhead projectors? Include in your discussion the use of multi-media projectors.

50 percent of the marks for Key Skills ICT Level 3 come from the portfolio of evidence (created from the planning, searching and selecting of data for presentation). Good ICT skills are required to prepare the work, but what other skills are necessary to prepare an effective portfolio? How could these skills be used to improve the look of the final project? Are the same skills important in other subjects?

Imagine that you're trying to sell email to someone who's never used it before. Discuss how email has changed the way people communicate with each other in the workplace and at home? What are the benefits? How do you think email will develop in the future?