Knowledge (AO1): Demonstrates factual knowledge and understanding.
Analysis (AO2): Explains and develops arguments.
Evaluation (AO3): Weighs arguments and makes judgments.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
Firstly First Past the Post is an electoral voting system that's divided into 650 constituencies and each constituency elects one candidate to be MP. However Proportional representation awards seats depending on the percent of vote each party wins, which is already a significantly more fair electoral system. Despite this there are still some positives to First Past the Post (FPTP). For example they usually produce a 2 party system which lead to a single party government and results are also calculated quickly. However FPTP also comes with its negatives for example it may encourage tactical voting if the voters preferred candidate is unlikely to win. FPTP is vastly different to proportional representation due to the fact that its fairer to minority candidates and offers more of a choice to voters. Despite some of these positives it also comes with its negatives as proportional representation produces more coalition government and sometimes MPs may have no links to a constituency. The main difference between the two is that Proportional representation is more fair than FPTP.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I disagree with this statement this is because First-past-the-post is a efficent. This is because First-past-thepost is cheap to run and votes get calculated quickly in 24 hours... Another reason is it a two-party system most of the time and the majority wins the vote. However some people may agree with this statement this is because many people do not want to vote the majority which encourages tactical voting of a unwinnable party... this also makes people agree with the statement as after a party gets a majority only winning votes count which discoureges many people to vote in an election as their votes may seem pointless and not useful for the outcome.
Projected Mark: 8/15 (High Level 2)
Note: This is a projected mark. To achieve this, the essay would need to be completed with a conclusion.
This is an adequate response that shows some good knowledge of the arguments for and against FPTP. You identify strengths (speed, cost, two-party system) and weaknesses (tactical voting, wasted votes). The arguments are mostly clear, but the answer is unbalanced.
WWW: You have a good understanding of the key arguments related to FPTP and a clear structure.
EBI: The essay almost exclusively discusses FPTP. To get into the higher levels, you must also discuss Proportional Representation (PR) – what it is, and what its specific strengths and weaknesses are. The question requires a comparison.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I don't believe the first past the post electoral system should be replaced with proportional representation. The first past the post is better than proportional representation as with proportional representation it is a battle of more than one party to gain votes and seats when some may argue only one party is needed. For example with proportional representation you may get 45% of votes which isn't majority and only get us seats whereas another party may gain 50% votes equating to 50% of seats... The first past the post electoral system is cheaper and allows any and everyone to run for mp etc. With the first-past-the-post it way more easier to access and everyone who chooses to vote who tend to be above 18+ will vote by putting a cross near one party they believe brings the right things to the table...
Projected Mark: 7/15 (Mid Level 2)
Note: This is a projected mark based on this incomplete essay.
This answer shows some knowledge of the arguments, particularly focusing on the perceived weaknesses of PR (difficulty forming majorities) and the strengths of FPTP (simplicity, cost). The arguments are somewhat unbalanced and could be explained more clearly.
WWW: You have a clear point of view and have attempted to justify it. You correctly identify the simplicity of FPTP as a key strength.
EBI: Your example of vote percentages under PR is a bit confused. The main point of PR is that 45% of the vote would get you close to 45% of the seats. You need to include a more balanced discussion by also considering the weaknesses of FPTP (like wasted votes) and the strengths of PR (like fairness).
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I disagree with said statement due to the various amount of problems within proportional representation. Proportional representation is the percentage of votes a party gets is equivelant to the amount of seats. However a problem is that proportional representation often lead to a coalition government... a majority coalition government however are less democracy because people vote for 1 party not 2. Additionally parties are unable to stick to their manifesto. For example in 2010, the conservatives and liberal democrates formed a coalition. One problem was that the lib dems promised reduced tuivesine tuitions within their manifesto. Due to being colided with the conservatives, lib dem were unable to fufill this... In addition proportional representation allows a majority of parties within parliaments, meaning it will be easier for extremist views to get into government. First past the post however has a varied amount of features.
Projected Mark: 9/15 (Low Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark based on this incomplete, one-sided essay.
This is a good, focused argument against PR. You show sound knowledge, especially with your excellent use of the 2010 coalition and the tuition fees promise as a specific example. Your analysis of why coalitions can be seen as undemocratic and ineffective is a strong point.
EBI: The essay is unbalanced. To achieve a higher mark, you need to also discuss the weaknesses of FPTP and the strengths of PR. The question requires you to consider both sides of the debate. A conclusion is also needed to complete the essay.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I believe that FPTP electoral system should be replaced with the PR system to a partially small extent. This is because FPTP has it's weaknesses such as it encourages tactical voting; also some constituencies have safe seats which gives others a sense of voter apathy and also only winning votes count... But on the other hand, it has it's strengths such as having fewer wasted votes and offers more votes for people. The main negative to all of this is a coalition being formed. This is when two parties join together since neither had a majority vote. This shows a lack of democracy as the public only vote for one political party and it can also cause a weak goverment... However Proportional Representation would be a good replacement of first past the post as it takes all parties into account and the votes are counted determined on the people voted for. Furthermore first past the post (FPTP) has a lower chance of creating a lower turnout compared to proportional representation (PR) as not everyones able to leave their house...
Projected Mark: 7/15 (Mid Level 2)
Note: This is a projected mark based on this incomplete essay.
This essay shows some knowledge of the key terms and arguments, such as tactical voting, safe seats, and coalitions. There's an attempt to create a balanced argument. However, there are several significant misunderstandings that undermine the analysis. For example, you state that FPTP has 'fewer wasted votes' and that it has 'lower turnout' compared to PR, when the opposite is generally argued.
EBI: Carefully review the arguments for and against each system. Make sure you are assigning the correct strengths and weaknesses to FPTP and PR. A clear conclusion that weighs up your points would strengthen the structure.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I partially disagree with this statement as FPTP (First Past the Post) offer a lot of benifits. For example, after using FPTP results are calculated quickly and accurate. This is very effective as some voting systems such as (Regional vaing) can take a while for voting to be processed and calculated. However, one downside is that FPTP encourages tactical voting... On the other hand, most people prefer proportional representation as the voting is for an individual and can be efficient. However there is also negatives with this argument as proportional representation can lead to create coalition goverments which is bad because that means voting and debating on topics is much harder than with FPTP.
Projected Mark: 9/15 (Low Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark for this incomplete essay.
This is a good, balanced response that shows sound knowledge of the arguments. You identify key strengths of FPTP (speed/clarity) and weaknesses (tactical voting), and also consider the main weakness of PR (coalitions). Your evaluation of why coalitions are a problem is a good feature.
EBI: The essay needs a conclusion to summarise your final judgment and justify your "partially disagree" stance. Using specific examples from UK politics would strengthen your arguments.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I disagree with this statement to an extent that First-pass-the-Post (FPTP) should be replaced with porportional representation (PR)... FPTP is a electoral system that a MP representing a political party in one of the 650 constituencies, if gaining a majority of votes gains a seat. PR is a voting system that allows the votes of a political party to be directly proportion to the seats... for example 10% of votes is 10% of seats. Firsely, the reason why I disagree... is because FPTP is a much quicker process than PR, relaesing results a couple hours after voting stations close... Another reason why I disagree is the simplicity of the system as in the voting station you only put a cross to vote for the canidate... However, one of two reasons why FPTP is ultimitely unfair is due to tactical voting and a two party system means increasing voter apathy as they may already know their small party they voted for aren't getting seats. To conclude, I still disagree with the statements as strengths of FPTP such as the simplicity and effincey are two main and important reasons compared to two less important reasons such as tactical voting...
Projected Mark: 11/15 (High Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark based on this high-quality but incomplete fragment.
This is a very good essay that shows clear knowledge and a balanced argument. Your definitions of both FPTP and PR at the start are excellent (AO1). You develop clear arguments for FPTP (speed, simplicity) and also address the counter-arguments regarding its unfairness (tactical voting, wasted votes). The conclusion is strong, as you weigh the importance of the different arguments to justify your final position.
EBI: Including a specific, real-world example (e.g., a UK election result) to illustrate the unfairness of FPTP would elevate this to Level 4.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
One reason why the first past the post system should be replaced with proportional representation is that seats are awarded depending on percentage... Another reason why FPTP should be replaced with PR is because FPTP is often unfair and unrepresentative. For example Liberal Democras won 12% in 2019 but only 11 seats in 2019, while the green party won one seat despite getting over 800,000 votes. Systems such as PR ensure that the number of seats a party gets is close to the number of votes they recieve. This means that every vote counts... Alternative systems can also give smaller parties and minority a fairer chance of being represented. Some people also argue that coalition governments which are under PR can be positive because they force parties to work together and compromise. In conclusion, I only partly agree with the statement. FPTP has advantages especially producing stable governments and keeping a close link between MPs and local communities. Other systems such as PR are important for giving people more representation... therefore, not all voting systems should be scrapped.
Projected Mark: 14/15 (High Level 4)
Note: This is a projected mark based on this excellent but incomplete essay.
An excellent, comprehensive discussion that shows detailed knowledge and sustained evaluation. Your use of specific evidence from the 2019 election is superb and a key feature of a Level 4 response. You develop clear arguments for PR (fairness, representation, positive view of coalitions) and then evaluate these against the strengths of FPTP (stability, MP link) in a well-reasoned and justified conclusion.
EBI: To secure the top mark, you could perhaps expand slightly on the 'close link between MPs and local communities' in your conclusion to make that evaluative point even stronger.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I disagree... because I believe FPTP is fair. For example the 3 key features of FPTP is that the candidate with the most votes become MP... it is divided into 650 different constituencys... To evaluate this statement I would argue that if we swap FPTP we might not have a fair or equal voting system in the UK. However, a key disadvantage of FPTP is that perhaps it might not be calculated properly. On the other hand, we could argue that proportional representation would do a great job in the UK. Proportional Representation could lead to things such as a coalition government... this would be a problem as it wouldn't make sense to have two different parties in charge with different ideas... PR encourages cooperation between different parties.
Projected Mark: 6/15 (Low Level 2)
Note: This is a projected mark based on the quality of this fragment.
This answer shows some knowledge of the features of FPTP (650 constituencies) and PR (coalitions). There is an attempt to make an argument and look at different perspectives. However, the points are often unclear or based on misunderstandings (e.g., that FPTP results might not be calculated properly, or that it is 'fairer' than PR).
EBI: Develop your points with clearer explanations. Why are coalitions a problem? Why is FPTP 'fair'? Review the core arguments. FPTP is usually criticised for being *un*fair, while its speed and clarity are seen as strengths.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I agree with this statement to an extent as replacing FPTP with proportional representation would make the UK's democracy more representative and fairer. Under FPTP, millions of votes are wasted in safe seats, and smaller parties like the Green or Reform often gain a significant share of the vote but win little to no seats. PR would ensure their seats in Parliament more accurately reflect how people actually vote... However, FPTP does provide clear outcomes and strong, stable governments, which PR systems often lack. Coalition governments under PR can lead to gridlock or disproportionate influence for smaller parties. The simplicity of FPTP also allows voters to easily understand the link between their vote and their local MP, strengthening accountability. Therefore, while PR might improve fairness in representation, it could undermine decisiveness and stability in government, which are key strengths of the current system.
Projected Mark: 15/15 (Top Level 4)
Note: This is a projected mark. To achieve full marks, the essay would just need to be completed to this standard.
An excellent, comprehensive, and well-argued essay. You demonstrate detailed knowledge of the arguments on both sides. Your arguments are clear, well-developed, and supported by a range of evidence and examples. The evaluation is sustained throughout, and you constantly weigh the competing values of fairness vs. stability. The conclusion is a model of a justified, nuanced personal opinion.
WWW: Comprehensive discussion with clear arguments for multiple perspectives. Sustained and sophisticated evaluation throughout. Excellent understanding of the core debate.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
Firstly, I could disagree with this statement regarding the efficiency FPTP has in comparison to proportional representation. For example, FPTP calculates votes quickly, and results are announced hours after voting closes. This is a strong argument as it portrays an efficient government... I can also disagree with the statement as the FPTP voting system removes the problem of extremists in Parliament... FPTP usually results in a 2-party-system, resulting in single-party governments unlike proportional representation, which usually results in many coalitions. This is a strong point as coalitions usually create problems and separation in parliament & society... However, I could also agree with the statement if I consider the benefits of PR compared to the bias FPTP has. For example, proportional representation means that the amont of votes a party gets is proportional to how many seats they recieve in parliament. This is a significant part as it is fairer to smaller parties by giving them a chance to be heard...
Projected Mark: 14/15 (High Level 4)
Note: This is a projected mark based on this excellent but incomplete essay.
An excellent and well-structured essay. You show detailed knowledge and understanding of both systems. The arguments are clear, well-developed, and you move logically from the case for FPTP (efficiency, keeps extremists out, stability) to the case for PR (fairness, representation for smaller parties). Your evaluation is sustained, for example when you state that coalitions 'create problems and separation'. The essay is balanced and comprehensive.
EBI: To guarantee top marks, the inclusion of a specific, named example (like an election year, a political party's results, or a country that uses PR) would add that final layer of evidential support.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I agree that the First Past the Post (FPTP) should be replaced to an extent. Proportional representation is one of the UK's strongest point for democracy... I believe FPTP has many weaknesses, for example candidates can win even with a low amount of population. this does not take in account of other people who voted, only who wins. Proportional representation doesn't focus on seats and 650 constituencys, instead it focuses on total voter percentage of the whole population. However some say a strength that FPTP has is that it is more efficent, this is a weak point as even though its more efficent, some constituencys have 'safe seat' which is unfair for other candidates. Proportional representation is stronger as its focus is the voters and percentage, making it easier to use, and more democratic...
Projected Mark: 10/15 (Mid Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark based on this incomplete essay.
This is a good response with a clear argument and some effective evaluation. You understand the key arguments for PR (fairness, democratic legitimacy) and against FPTP (unrepresentative winners, safe seats). Your evaluation of the 'efficiency' argument for FPTP by bringing in the problem of 'safe seats' is a strong piece of analysis.
EBI: The essay could be more balanced. While you acknowledge a strength of FPTP, you dismiss it quickly. Try to explore the arguments for FPTP (e.g., stability, constituency link) in more detail. Use of a specific example would strengthen your points.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I disagree with the view very much as although Proportional Representation (PR) may be arguably more representative of democracy, First Past the Post (FPTP) is a much more ordered and proper electoral system as it takes in the account of the votes in a single area (constituency) and the candidate with the highest votes win that seat in Parliament (an MP). Firstly, a reason why I disagree... is not only due to the success of the FPTP in our country, but also the failures of PR internationally. For example, our country is divided into 650 constituencis which are each equivalent to one seat... This system is very simple to understand and it is very beneficial to this country as it normally creates a two-party system which would generally require no hung parliaments or coalitions... Also, another reason why FPTP is much superior than PR is due to other country history with the usage of PR. For example, during the Great Depression in Weimar Germany in 1929... This led many to vote for extreme, facist parties like the NSDAP. PR is horrible as it allows rogue, extremist political parties to gain power...
Projected Mark: 12/15 (High Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark for this one-sided but well-argued fragment.
This is a very strong and well-argued essay from a single perspective. Your knowledge is detailed and accurate, and your use of the Weimar Germany example to argue against PR is excellent and shows wider understanding. The analysis of FPTP's strengths is clear and well-developed. The argument is forceful and well-supported.
EBI: The essay is very one-sided. To reach Level 4, you must show some balance by considering the counter-arguments. What are the weaknesses of FPTP (e.g., disproportionate results) and the strengths of PR (e.g., fairness) that you are choosing to reject?
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
On one hand First-past-the-post should not be replaced... because it normally leads to a 2 party system... a strong point because First-past-the-post normally gives us a goverment with a majority and not a coalition goverment. However on the other hand First-past-the-post should be replaced with Proportional Representation. This is because Proportional Representation offers more political parties to vote for rather than a 2 system. Although this point is weak because having a lot of parties to vote for can often lead to no party having a majority and resulting in a coalition goverment. Which would then lead to another election as the parties would have differnt views and wont make any decisions wasting an enormous amount of time.
Projected Mark: 9/15 (Low Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark based on this incomplete essay.
This is a good response that shows understanding of the central debate: stable majority governments (FPTP) vs. multi-party choice (PR). Your evaluation of the weakness of PR (leading to unstable coalitions and 'wasting time') is a clear and strong point. The essay has a logical, balanced structure.
EBI: You need a conclusion to summarise your overall judgment. Do you agree or disagree, and why? Try to expand your points with more detail or a specific example.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I agree with this statement to an extent as proportional representation (PR) offers the public a wider variety of parties to vote for & also because fewer votes are wasted when using PR... What this point fails to mention is the fact that although fewer votes are wasted proportional representation has a higher chance of forming a coalition government. Which is a negative as it could effect the speed of how things are done... passing laws could take way longer as each partie has two different view and may disagree... On the other hand I disagree with this statement as first past the post voting system counts the votes more expeditiously and could be revealed hours after the election. However what this point fails to include is first past the post does only include the winning votes so the elected candidate may have only won on little public support which means it is more unfair and a lot of votes are wasted.
Projected Mark: 11/15 (High Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark for this incomplete essay.
A good, well-balanced essay. You show sound knowledge of the arguments for both systems and structure your response clearly, looking at PR first and then FPTP. There is some good evaluation, for example, when you explain *why* coalitions are a negative ('passing laws could take way longer').
EBI: The essay needs a concluding paragraph to bring your arguments together and make a final, justified judgment. Adding a specific piece of evidence would help push the answer into Level 4.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I agree moderately with this statement because I believe that democracy in the UK should be based on government by consensus rather than majoritarianism... The First Past the Post system is majoritarian because the party with the most votes can claim utter victory, even if they do not have much popular support. An example could be the 2024 general election which saw Labour win a majority of seats while they still had a minority of popular votes... A problem with switching to a PR system is that it gives extremists a greater chance to enter government... another bonus from FPTP encourages tactical voting due to majoritarianism while FPTR allows people to vote for their prefered candidate due to its consensus-based system. Parties like Reform UK... tend to have spread out voterbases if they gain a large number of votes, would be elected a sizeable amount of seats in parliament even if they didn't win any majorities in individual constituencies.
Projected Mark: 13/15 (High Level 4)
Note: This is a projected mark for this excellent but incomplete essay.
This is an excellent essay demonstrating detailed knowledge and sustained evaluation. You use sophisticated concepts like 'consensus' vs. 'majoritarianism' to frame your argument effectively. Your use of a contemporary example and the specific mention of Reform UK show excellent application of knowledge. You weigh the arguments throughout, considering the risks of PR (extremists) against its benefits (fairer representation).
EBI: The point about tactical voting is slightly confused in its phrasing. Clarifying that PR *reduces* the need for tactical voting would make this even stronger. A conclusion is also needed to complete the essay.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I disagree with this statement as First Past the Post is a better voting system due to it Simplicity, Cheapness, and ability to allow vote to be counted quickly. This is because FPTP works by the 650 seats in parliment representing the 650 constituacys. Each consituency elects one MP... However someone else may argue Proportional Representation should replace FPTP as it waste fewer votes due to its seats depending on the percentage of vokes however a weakness of this point is that Proportional representation often leads to coalition governments which undermines democracy... Another reason FPTP shouldn't be replaced... is because Proportional Representation allows Radical and extremist parties to gain more popularity. For example, in Wiener Germany the Nazi and communist party were able to gain a lot of popularity at the back of Proportional Representation.
Projected Mark: 11/15 (High Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark for this high-quality but incomplete essay.
This is a good, well-argued essay. You have a clear line of argument against replacing FPTP and you support it with a good range of points (simplicity, speed, weakness of coalitions, risk of extremism). Your use of the Weimar Germany example is a strong piece of evidence. The structure is clear and the arguments are well-developed.
EBI: To complete the essay, you need a concluding paragraph that summarises your judgment and justifies it by weighing the arguments you have presented.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I Disagree with this statement to quite a large extent... Firstly, one significant advantage that comes with First post post is it simplicity and low cost... it may be easy for the candidate understood by votes. Furthermore, this system also often result in a two party system which often results in single party government, making who's in power for clever... On the other hand however, Proportional representation still does have some benefits as in this system, seats are awarded depending on the percentage of wotes each paty wins. This means that fewer wotes are wasted and that its fairer to minority candidates... which has been seen historical such as Weimar Germany in the 1920s. Despite this however, PR still often leevs to coalition governments while also allowing extremist partis in the mainstream, resulting in a much more unstable and unlcear power.
Projected Mark: 12/15 (High Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark for this incomplete but very good essay.
This is a very good essay with a clear structure and a sustained argument. You show sound knowledge of the arguments for FPTP (simplicity, strong government) and balance this against the arguments for PR (fairness, fewer wasted votes). Your evaluation is strong, particularly in the final sentence where you weigh the benefits of PR against its potential drawbacks (instability, extremism).
EBI: Your use of the Weimar Germany example is slightly misplaced; it's usually used as an argument *against* PR. Using a more specific UK example to demonstrate the unfairness of FPTP (e.g., 2015 election) would have been more effective. A conclusion is also needed to complete the work.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
Despite the fact that there are alternative electoral systems... I disagree with this statement and believe that First Past the Post (FPTP) is in fact the most effective electoral system and should'nt be replaced. One reason why I disagree with this statement is due to the many advantages which FPTP have. For example FPTP is a very good system as it ensures that a strong government is elected... Additionally it is a simple system to understand and votes can be calculated quickly... Although FPTP promotes voter apathy and reduced turnouts, I strongly believe that the advantages of FPTP overshadow the disadvantages. On the other hand some people may argue that proportional representation is a better alternative. This is because it is fairer to a minority and leads to fewer wasted votes. However a downside to PR is that it allows extremist parties into the power such as Hitler's Nazi party in 1929 who gained power through proportional representation. In conclusion although PR is a good way... I strongly disagree with this statement and believe FPTP is better.
Projected Mark: 11/15 (High Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark based on the quality of this fragment.
A good, clearly structured essay with a consistent line of argument. You show good knowledge of the key arguments for FPTP (strong government, simplicity) and against PR (risk of extremism). You also show balance by acknowledging the arguments on the other side (voter apathy under FPTP, fairness of PR). The use of the Nazi Germany example is a powerful, if common, piece of evidence.
EBI: To push into Level 4, try to develop your evaluation further. *Why* are the advantages of FPTP more important than its disadvantages in your view? Explaining the reasoning behind your judgment in more detail would strengthen the essay.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I disagree with this statement because proportional representation isnt efficient and I believe it will cause a lot of conflict... with (FPTP) it allows voting results to be calculated quickly which is a positive for the party to get into power with no delay. however with proportional representation... it could lead to coalition governments since no parties have gotten the majority which results to laws passing slowly and it also allows extremists party to get into power which is troublesome politically. On the other hand some people may disagree as FPTP also has its disadvantages for example it creates tactical voting which lowers the chance of other parties gaining power creating a two party system whereas proportional representation creates fewer wasted votes and is fairer to minorities.
Projected Mark: 10/15 (Mid Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark for an incomplete essay.
This is a good, balanced essay showing sound knowledge of the arguments. You structure your answer well, presenting the case against PR (inefficient, coalitions, extremists) and then considering the case against FPTP (tactical voting, two-party system). The arguments are developed and clear.
EBI: The essay stops abruptly without a conclusion. You need to add a concluding paragraph to weigh up the arguments and make a final, justified judgment based on the points you've discussed.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I disagree that the first-past-the post electoral system should be replaced with proportional representation. This is because First-past-the-post is a easy electoral system to understand. for example their are 650 constituinces and members of each constituency vote for the MP that they want to represent them in parliament... Also F-P-T-P often produces a two party system between labour and conservative. Others may agree that First-Past-the-Post should be replaced with proportional representation because it gives more parties a chance. PR doesn't produce 2 party systems and it encourages voters to vote for the party they want to win... Compared to F-P-T-P votes are wasted amongst parties who don't win whereas in proportional representation the votes are not wasted because each vote contributes... proportional representation might not be as efficient as FPTP but at least there is a lack of reduced turnout amongst voters.
Projected Mark: 9/15 (Low Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark for this incomplete essay.
This is a solid, balanced essay that shows good knowledge of the key arguments. You clearly explain the strengths of FPTP (simplicity, two-party system, quick results) and the main strengths of PR (more choice, fewer wasted votes). The structure is logical.
EBI: The essay lacks a conclusion where you make a final judgment. You state your disagreement at the start, but you need to return to it at the end and explain *why* you disagree, weighing up the points you've made.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
disagree. I agree that the First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Represention because the First Past the Post electrical system shows more security for your vote. For example, it cant get lost in any viruse. it will make sure they are getting your vote by making you sign it for clarifying it's you.Projected Mark: 1/15 (Level 1)
Note: This is a projected mark based on the limited quality of this fragment.
This answer shows some very basic knowledge that different voting systems exist, but the argument is based on a misunderstanding of what electoral systems do. The points about 'security' and 'viruses' relate to the method of casting a vote (e.g., in person vs. online), not the system used to count the votes and award seats (FPTP vs. PR). The initial 'disagree/agree' is also contradictory.
EBI: Focus on what FPTP and PR actually are: systems for converting votes into seats. Try to explain one simple argument for each side, for example, "FPTP is good because it is simple" and "PR is good because it is fairer".
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
First Past the post should be replaced with proportional Representation to a extent. First past the post (FPTP) is a voting system in which the most constituencies win, a advantage of this is that it is easy to count votes... However what Proportional Representation (PR) is, is that it is the governments with the most amount of votes rather than most constituencies. this can be classed as very powerful since this means that there will be way less votes being wasted... a flow in this point is that this could perhaps cause more coalation governments. a coalation government is a government run with two parties. this could perhaps be very devastating because the governments may have different views/manifestos. a example of this is when the liberal democrats coalated with conservatives to form a government. liberal democrats stated they would abolish univerisity fees, however what than happened is that they increased the fees so therefore their trust is now gone.
Projected Mark: 10/15 (Mid Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark for this incomplete essay.
A good response that shows sound knowledge and a balanced argument. Your use of the Liberal Democrats and tuition fees from the 2010 coalition is an excellent, specific example and is the strongest part of your essay. You understand the key arguments about FPTP's simplicity, PR's fairness, and the problems with coalitions.
EBI: The essay needs a conclusion to make a final judgment and justify your "to an extent" view.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
I agree with the statement and how proportional Representation should be replaced with First Past the Post electoral system. This is because I think First Past the Post electoral system is more effective in gaing many votes... Since firstly in order to vote for the MP of your choice you go to your nearest voting station and put a x next to your desired MP... Its better than voting online or sending your vore through the post since firstly it can get lost and your vote won't count. Secondly you can get hacked and your vote disapears or changes to vote for another MP. So the electoral system for first past the post is very effective and easy to vote. I also dissagie this is because if you have work and cant make it to the voting station you woudn't be able to vote or if you cant leave your house (elderly or have a illness) you cant make it...
Projected Mark: 0/15
Unfortunately, this answer does not address the question asked. The essay discusses the practicalities of different *methods* of voting (in-person, online, by post) rather than the different *electoral systems* for counting those votes (First Past the Post vs. Proportional Representation). The points about security, hacking, and accessibility are not relevant to the debate between FPTP and PR.
"The First Past the Post electoral system should be replaced with Proportional Representation in the UK." (15 marks) How far do you agree with this view?
Advocates of Proportional Representation argue that it leads to a more representative parliment where the distribution of seats more accurately reflects the popular vote. It can also encourage collaborations and coperation among parties. Whereas, The First Past the Post believe that it provides both stabe and decisive government, as it usually produces a clear majority for one party. They argue that Proportional Representation could lead to more fragmented parliments, difficulty in forming stable governments and the potential for extreme or fringe parties to gain infhence. In the UK, there been calls for electorial reform and a shift towards a Proportional Representation system partially after disparties between the popular vote share and the number of seats won by a party in elections.
Projected Mark: 8/15 (High Level 2)
Note: This is a projected mark for this descriptive but unevaluated fragment.
This answer shows good knowledge and understanding of the main arguments for both FPTP and PR. You have laid out the debate very clearly, contrasting the arguments for representation and cooperation (PR) with those for stability and decisiveness (FPTP). This is a good description of the different perspectives.
EBI: This essay describes the debate but doesn't make an argument. To get higher marks, you need to answer the question "How far do you agree?". You need to take a stance (agree, disagree, or agree to an extent) and use these points to build your own argument. The essay needs evaluation (weighing up the points) and a justified conclusion.
Examiner's Comments
Projected Mark: 12/15 (High Level 3)
Note: This is a projected mark based on this excellent but incomplete essay.
This is a very good, well-structured piece of writing that clearly shows sound knowledge and understanding of both electoral systems. You have developed arguments for multiple perspectives, looking at the pros and cons of both FPTP and PR. Your evaluation runs throughout the answer, particularly in your direct comparisons of fairness and outcomes.
WWW: Your knowledge of both systems is accurate and detailed. You have a balanced structure, addressing points for and against both systems logically.
EBI: To reach Level 4, you could have included specific examples or evidence (e.g., citing a UK election result). A final concluding paragraph would be needed to complete the essay.