Edexcel A-Level Politics | Paper 3a USA | 2026 Predicted Paper | Mark Scheme Question 3(a)
Question 3(a) Mark Scheme
Evaluate the view that checks on presidential power prevent US presidents from becoming imperial presidents.
You must consider this view and the alternative to this view in a balanced way.
(30 marks)
“Evaluate” requires students to analyse arguments both supporting and challenging the stated view, then make substantiated judgements based on the evidence. This is a substantial 30-mark essay worth 10 marks each for AO1, AO2 and AO3, and Pearson suggests approximately 45 minutes. An introduction is desirable, a conclusion is essential, and mini-judgements throughout can strengthen AO3. Students who do not consider both sides in a balanced way cannot progress beyond Level 2.
The question sits directly within the presidency specification. Students must know the President's formal and informal powers, relationships with Congress and the Supreme Court, limitations including the Constitution, election cycle and divided government, and the debate over the imperial presidency.
Levels-based marking
Level | Marks | Indicative characteristics |
Level 5 | 25–30 | Thorough, in-depth and effectively selected knowledge. Perceptive analysis with sustained logical reasoning. Fully relevant, substantiated evaluation leading to focused and justified judgements and conclusions. |
Level 4 | 19–24 | Accurate and carefully selected knowledge. Consistent analysis and coherent reasoning. Mostly effective evaluation with mostly substantiated judgements and a focused conclusion. |
Level 3 | 13–18 | Mostly accurate knowledge and generally focused analysis. Evaluation is relevant but not consistently developed or substantiated. |
Level 2 | 7–12 | Some accurate knowledge with emerging analysis. Evaluation is occasional or partially substantiated and conclusions tend to be generic. |
Level 1 | 1–6 | Superficial knowledge, limited analysis and predominantly descriptive or unsupported evaluation. |
0 | 0 | No rewardable material. |
Indicative content
Indicative content is not exhaustive. Other accurate arguments and contemporary examples should be credited.
Arguments supporting the view
Congress can prevent presidential dominance through legislation and control of presidential proposals
Congress possesses substantial constitutional checks on the President. Legislation normally requires congressional approval, Congress controls appropriations, and a presidential veto can itself be overridden by a two-thirds majority in both chambers.
For example, Congress overrode Barack Obama's 2016 veto of the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act, with the Senate voting 97 to 1. Congress also overrode Donald Trump's veto of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act, with both chambers reaching the constitutionally required threshold.
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