Using the source, evaluate the view that region is now a more significant influence on voting behaviour than social class.
Updated: Oct 7
Edexcel A-Level Politics | Paper 1 | 2026 Predicted Paper | Question 1 Mark Scheme
Both Question 1(a) and 1(b) are 30-mark source questions. The command “Using the source, evaluate” requires students to identify the competing arguments in the source, compare them directly, test their strength using relevant political knowledge, and reach a sustained judgement. The 30 marks are divided equally between AO1, AO2 and AO3, 10 marks each. Pearson also makes clear that outside knowledge can develop the arguments in the source, but new points introduced from outside the source cannot themselves generate AO2 or AO3 marks.
A high-level answer therefore needs more than two separate lists of arguments. Pearson examiner reports repeatedly emphasise that stronger answers pair competing source arguments, maintain a clear line of argument, support the source with well-selected evidence, and make judgements throughout rather than saving evaluation for the conclusion.
Generic levels for Question 1
Level | Marks | Characteristics |
Level 1 | 1–6 | Superficial knowledge, limited comparison, mainly descriptive evaluation and weak conclusions. |
Level 2 | 7–12 | Some accurate knowledge and emerging comparison, with partially supported judgements. |
Level 3 | 13–18 | Mostly accurate knowledge, focused comparison and generally effective evaluation, although conclusions may not always be fully justified. |
Level 4 | 19–24 | Accurate, carefully selected knowledge, consistent comparison and mostly effective, substantiated judgements leading to focused conclusions. |
Level 5 | 25–30 | Thorough knowledge, perceptive and sustained comparison, convincing connections between arguments and fully substantiated judgements leading to a focused and justified conclusion. |
These bands follow Pearson's published level descriptors for 30-mark Paper 1 source questions.
Question 1(a)
Using the source, evaluate the view that region is now a more significant influence on voting behaviour than social class.
(30 marks)
Students need to compare the evidence for region with the evidence for social class, rather than simply writing one paragraph on each. Because the wording is comparative, a strong response should repeatedly address the relative significance of the two factors and reach a reasoned conclusion about what the evidence in the source demonstrates.
Indicative content
The following points are indicative. Other valid arguments consistent with the source and specification should be rewarded.
Arguments supporting the view that region is now more significant
Students may develop the argument that:
The source reveals substantial regional differences in party support. Labour received 43.0% in London and 45.4% in the North East, but the pattern for other parties differed considerably. Reform UK's share was 8.7% in London but 19.9% in the North East.
This suggests that geographical location continues to correspond with distinctive voting patterns.
Regional differences may reflect different political, economic and social circumstances across the UK.
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