Edexcel A-Level Politics | Paper 1 | 2026 Predicted Paper | Question 3(a) Mark Scheme
Question 3 Mark Scheme
Questions 3(a) and 3(b) are 24-mark Core Political Ideas essays. The command “To what extent…” requires students to compare areas of agreement and disagreement within the ideology, use the named thinkers from the specification to support those comparisons, and reach a reasoned judgement about whether the similarities or differences are greater.
Pearson allocates 8 marks each to AO1, AO2 and AO3 and suggests approximately 30 minutes for this question. Students who do not use specific thinkers from the specification, or who consider only one side of the debate, cannot progress beyond Level 2. Pearson also states that stronger answers compare ideological strands, with thinkers used to exemplify those strands, rather than simply writing separate paragraphs about individual thinkers.
Level | Marks | Characteristics |
Level 1 | 1–4 | Limited knowledge, little relevant comparison and weak or unsupported judgement. |
Level 2 | 5–9 | Some relevant knowledge, but comparison or balance is limited. Judgements are only partially supported. |
Level 3 | 10–14 | Mostly accurate knowledge with some effective comparison of similarities and differences. Evaluation is present but may be inconsistent. |
Level 4 | 15–19 | Accurate and relevant knowledge, sustained comparative analysis and mostly substantiated judgements. |
Level 5 | 20–24 | Thorough knowledge, perceptive comparison of ideological strands and sustained evaluation leading to a convincing judgement about the extent of agreement or disagreement. |
Pearson's current guidance confirms these five bands and stresses that students need to compare similarities and differences throughout, rather than simply describing each strand separately.
Question 3(a), Conservatism
To what extent do one-nation conservatives and New Right conservatives disagree over paternalism?(24 marks)
A strong answer should focus specifically on paternalism, not become a general comparison of One-Nation conservatism and the New Right. Students should compare the reasons One-Nation conservatives accept paternalism with the reasons New Right conservatives reject it, while recognising that the neo-conservative element of the New Right still supports authority and social order.
The specification defines paternalism as benign power exercised from above in the interests of the people. It states that One-Nation conservatism sees an obligation on the wealthy to look after those unable to look after themselves, whereas New Right conservatives reject paternalism. It also identifies the New Right as a combination of neo-liberal and neo-conservative ideas.
Indicative content
Arguments suggesting substantial disagreement
Students may explain that:
One-Nation conservatism accepts paternalism because society is organic and different groups have reciprocal duties and obligations.
Those with wealth, status or power have responsibilities towards the less fortunate. This is connected to noblesse oblige.
One-Nation paternalism therefore accepts some state action and social provision where this protects social cohesion and prevents severe divisions.
It is also pragmatic. Intervention may be accepted where it preserves established society and prevents destabilising change.
The neo-liberal New Right rejects paternalism because it values individual liberty, personal responsibility and atomistic individualism.
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