Edexcel A-Level Politics | Paper 1 | 2026 Predicted Paper | Question 2(a) Mark Scheme
The command “Evaluate the view that…” requires students to test the stated view against the alternative, analyse the relative strength of the arguments and reach a substantiated judgement. Pearson allocates 10 marks each to AO1, AO2 and AO3, and suggests roughly 45 minutes for this question.
Unlike Question 1, students must rely on their own knowledge and understanding, because there is no source. Pearson stresses that both sides must be considered in a balanced way, while evaluation should run throughout the essay rather than appearing only in the conclusion.
Generic levels for Question 2
Level | Marks | Characteristics |
Level 1 | 1–6 | Limited political knowledge, mainly descriptive material, little analysis of the debate and weak or unsupported judgement. |
Level 2 | 7–12 | Some relevant knowledge and some consideration of both views, but analysis and evaluation are uneven or underdeveloped. |
Level 3 | 13–18 | Mostly accurate and relevant knowledge, clear analysis of competing arguments and some substantiated judgements. |
Level 4 | 19–24 | Accurate, well-selected knowledge, sustained analysis of both sides and mostly effective evaluation leading towards a supported conclusion. |
Level 5 | 25–30 | Thorough and precise knowledge, perceptive analysis, sustained comparison of competing arguments and well-supported judgements developed throughout the response. |
Pearson's guidance is particularly clear that AO3 is not something to add at the end. Stronger essays build towards their conclusion through incremental judgements, rather than presenting two descriptive sides followed by an unsupported verdict.
Question 2(a)
Evaluate the view that representative democracy is more effective than direct democracy in the UK.
(30 marks)
A strong response must compare the effectiveness of representative democracy and direct democracy, rather than simply describing their features. Students should establish criteria for effectiveness, such as participation, legitimacy, accountability, quality of decision-making and practicality, and use those criteria consistently.
The specification explicitly requires students to know the features, similarities, differences, advantages and disadvantages of direct and representative democracy and to consider the case for reform.
Indicative content
The following is indicative rather than exhaustive. Other accurate arguments within the specification should be rewarded.
Arguments supporting the stated view
Students may argue that representative democracy is effective because:
elected representatives can devote considerable time to understanding complex political issues
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