Edexcel A-Level Politics | Paper 3a USA | 2026 Predicted Paper | Mark Scheme Question 2
Analyse the similarities in the effectiveness of interest groups in the USA and pressure groups in the UK in protecting civil rights.
In your answer you must consider the relevance of at least one comparative theory.
(12 marks)
“Analyse” requires students to explain how and why the similarities exist, using accurate knowledge to build comparative chains of reasoning. This is a 12-mark AO1/AO2 question, with 6 marks for knowledge and understanding and 6 for analysis. A practical approach is three developed comparative paragraphs. There is no AO3, so students do not need to evaluate which country is better, reach a judgement, or write an introduction or conclusion. Pearson also requires at least one of the rational, cultural or structural theories to be explained and integrated into the comparison, rather than simply named.
The question is directly within specification point 6.2.7, which requires comparison of the effectiveness of interest groups in the protection of civil rights in the USA and UK. The comparative approaches available are rational, cultural and structural.
Levels-based mark scheme
Level | Marks | Indicative characteristics |
Level 4 | 10–12 | Accurate, carefully selected knowledge of both countries. Consistent and explicit comparative analysis with well-developed chains of reasoning. At least one comparative theory is properly explained and integrated. |
Level 3 | 7–9 | Mostly accurate knowledge with generally focused comparison. Analysis is developed but may be uneven. Comparative theory may be absent, asserted rather than explained, or insufficiently integrated. |
Level 2 | 4–6 | Some accurate knowledge but comparison is inconsistent or mainly descriptive. Some analytical connections are made but lack development. |
Level 1 | 1–3 | Superficial knowledge and limited comparative analysis, with weak or simplistic connections. |
0 | 0 | No rewardable material. |
Pearson's examiner guidance is particularly important here: a response without a properly explained comparative theory cannot reach Level 4. Simply adding a sentence such as “this is structural theory” is not enough. One well-explained theory is sufficient, and there is no requirement to use all three.
Indicative content
The following is indicative rather than exhaustive. Other accurate examples and developed similarities should be credited.
Similarity 1: both can protect civil rights effectively through legal action
Interest groups in both systems can use the courts to challenge actions or policies which they believe infringe civil rights.
In the USA, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has repeatedly used litigation. In the cases consolidated with Bostock v Clayton County in 2020, the ACLU represented Aimee Stephens and Donald Zarda. The Supreme Court held that Title VII's prohibition of sex discrimination in employment covers discrimination because an employee is gay or transgender.
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