Paper 1: UK Democracy and Elections
UK elections and democracy dominate this paper, with questions consistently focusing on how our political system actually works in practice. You'll notice examiners love asking about referendums, electoral systems, and whether our democracy is genuinely representative.
The source questions always test your ability to evaluate controversial statements about voting behaviour, party politics, and democratic participation. Recent trends show increasing focus on whether social media and age have replaced traditional factors like class in determining how people vote.
Essay questions consistently explore three major themes: the influence of pressure groups versus media, the security of individual rights, and whether our electoral system needs reform. Notice how 2022-2024 papers particularly emphasise media influence and rights protection.
Top tip: Questions about "democratic deficit" and rights protection have appeared multiple times - these are clearly examiner favourites, so make sure you can argue both sides convincingly.
