Marie,
I think that all the parts raised section 7 is relevant but it is just the context (i.e. constraints, expressions etc are important features of UML but do we really need to know the metaclass operations required to create UML tools).
Unfortunately, because the OMG have lacked consistency in their recommendation for preparing for the exam (i.e. they say use the superstructure and (in the same answer) then say that it would be better to use a UML course or good book!). I have never yet come across UML books (including the Reference or User Guide) that explain the workings of the metamodel but simply how the features of UML that are derived from the workings of the metamodel. As modelers and architects; we do not ask how a compiler works or how the inner workings of the Java specification. To our role, we abstract away from the inner details but still have more than sufficient knowledge to do our roles. For example, in order to pass the SCEA, I didn't need to know the metamodel of UML or the inner details of the
EJB specification.
I think it is fair to say that until I take the exam on Monday I cannot make judgement on how the OMG are approaching these exams. I really do hope that they have concentrated on the practise of UML rather than the metamodel. If not all the superstructure information is relevant and only some of the descriptions and semantics, the same information can be found in the User Guide and Reference books in a more explanative manner.
I'll have to wait and see but in the meantime use the superstructure document, the User Guide and Reference books! I hope it is worth the hassle!
