Edexcel A-Level Politics | Component 3A: USA | 2027 Predicted Paper | Mark Scheme Question 3(c)
Evaluate the view that divisions within the Democratic and Republican parties are more significant than the differences between the two parties.
You must consider this view and the alternative to this view in a balanced way.
(30 marks)
"Evaluate" requires students to examine arguments supporting and challenging the stated view, using evidence to develop a reasoned judgement. This is a 30-mark essay, with 10 marks each for AO1 (knowledge and understanding), AO2 (analysis) and AO3 (evaluation). Students should spend approximately 45 minutes on the answer, developing both sides of the argument and explaining their judgements throughout rather than leaving evaluation until the conclusion.
The key to this question is the phrase "more significant". Students must do more than identify the factions within each party or describe differences between Democrats and Republicans. They need to investigate how these differences influence party unity, legislation and the development of political policies.
Levels-based mark scheme
The following descriptors are adapted from Pearson's official Section C marking criteria. They assess the overall quality of the response, rather than awarding fixed marks for individual arguments.
Level | Marks | Indicative characteristics |
Level 5 | 25–30 | Thorough and precisely selected knowledge. Sustained analysis comparing internal divisions with inter-party differences. Perceptive, consistently substantiated evaluation leading to a focused, justified conclusion. |
Level 4 | 19–24 | Accurate and relevant knowledge, coherent analysis and generally effective evaluation. Both arguments are developed, although judgements may lack consistency or depth. |
Level 3 | 13–18 | Mostly accurate knowledge with some developed analysis. Evaluation is relevant but may become a description of separate issues rather than a sustained comparison. |
Level 2 | 7–12 | Some relevant knowledge, but analysis is limited or substantially descriptive. Evaluation is occasional, insufficiently supported or one-sided. |
Level 1 | 1–6 | Superficial knowledge, limited reasoning and little meaningful evaluation. |
0 | 0 | No rewardable material. |
Pearson specifies that students must consider the stated view and its alternative in a balanced way. Answers that fail to do this cannot progress beyond Level 2.
Indicative content
This indicative mark scheme has been written for the predicted question. It is not an official Pearson mark scheme. Other accurate examples and developed arguments that answer the question should receive credit.
Arguments supporting the view
1. Republican factional divisions can have substantial consequences for congressional leadership
The Republican Party contains different ideological tendencies, including fiscal conservatives, social conservatives and moderates. Disagreements can concern government spending, legislative compromises and the direction of party leadership.
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