Examine the differences between supranational and intergovernmental approaches to European integration.

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Edexcel A-Level Politics | Component 3B | 2027 Predicted Paper | Mark Scheme Question 1 (a)

Section A Mark Scheme

Section A is worth 12 marks, split equally between AO1 (6 marks) and AO2 (6 marks). The command word “Examine” requires students to make direct comparisons and explain the significance of those similarities or differences. There is no AO3, so students do not need to reach an evaluative judgement. In practice, around three well-developed comparative paragraphs is a sensible target.

Pearson's Paper 3B mark scheme rewards accurate knowledge that directly underpins comparative analysis. At Level 4, comparison should be consistent and supported by coherent chains of reasoning. Examiner feedback is particularly clear that stronger candidates compare the two sides in parallel, whereas weaker responses often describe one and then the other without actually examining the stated similarities or differences.

Shared levels-based mark scheme

Level	Marks	Descriptor
Level 0	0	No rewardable material.
Level 1	1–3	Superficial knowledge and limited comparison. Connections are simplistic or only partially developed.
Level 2	4–6	Some accurate knowledge and some relevant direct comparison. Analytical reasoning is emerging but may be uneven or underdeveloped.
Level 3	7–9	Mostly accurate, relevant knowledge supports focused comparison. Logical chains of reasoning are generally developed and relevant.
Level 4	10–12	Accurate and carefully selected knowledge consistently supports direct comparative analysis. Reasoning is coherent, developed and focused throughout.

This reflects Pearson's published Section A assessment model of 6 AO1 + 6 AO2.

Question 1(a)