GCSE Citizenship Studies Feedback (10Q-Ci1)

Model Answer (4 marks)

One principle is the rule of law.Correctly identifies a valid principle. This supports democracy because it ensures that everyone, including the government itself, is accountable under the law and prevents leaders from abusing their power.This is a clear explanation of *how* the principle supports democracy, securing the second mark.

A second principle is free and fair elections.Correctly identifies a second valid principle. This supports democracy by allowing citizens to choose their representatives and hold them to account, ensuring the government has the consent of the governed.Another excellent explanation that links the principle directly to a core democratic concept.

Model Answer (2 marks)

One way is through schools promoting shared British values.Correct. Education is a key method identified in the Mark Scheme. Another way is through local councils organising community events, such as sports days or festivals, which bring people from different backgrounds together.A specific, practical example of promoting cohesion.

Model Answer (2 marks)

The government may restrict free speech in the interests of national security, for example during wartime, to prevent secrets from being leaked to the enemy.Correct. National security is a valid justification. It may also be restricted to prevent 'hate speech', where language is used to incite violence against specific groups in society.Correct. Harm to society is a key limitation.

Model Answer (6 marks)

The source suggests identities are more accepted because society has become more tolerant and people are now freer to define themselves rather than being defined by old stereotypes.Good use of the source to form an initial point. For example, the source highlights that many people in London, regardless of their ethnic background, identify primarily as 'Londoners', showing that a shared, inclusive local identity is now widely accepted over a more traditional national one.This shows strong comprehension and analysis of the source material.

Furthermore, my own knowledge confirms that identities are more accepted due to legal changes. The Equality Act 2010 made it illegal to discriminate against people based on 'protected characteristics' such as their religion, race, or sexual orientation.Excellent use of specific own knowledge to develop the point far beyond the source. This legal protection has fostered wider societal acceptance and has empowered people to be more open about their varied identities without fear of prejudice.

Model Answer (4 marks)

One main feature is that the UK constitution is uncodified.Correctly identifies a key feature using precise terminology. This means that it is not written down in a single, authoritative document, but is drawn from multiple sources like Acts of Parliament, court judgments, and conventions.A full explanation that clarifies what 'uncodified' means.

Another key feature is Parliamentary Sovereignty.Correctly identifies a second key feature. This is the principle that Parliament is the supreme legal authority in the UK and can create or repeal any law. No court can overrule its legislation.This clear and accurate definition secures the final two marks.

Model Answer (3 marks)

1. Income Tax.Correct.

2. Value Added Tax (VAT).Correct.

3. Corporation Tax.Correct.

Model Answer (6 marks)

One major difference is the separation of powers. In the UK, the judiciary, executive, and legislature are separate, ensuring checks and balances. In North Korea, there is a vast overlap, with the leader holding absolute control over all branches.A clear structural comparison.

Another difference is the party system. The UK has a multi-party system where opposition is an essential part of democracy. In contrast, North Korea is a one-party state where no political opposition is permitted.A strong point contrasting the nature of political competition.

Finally, leadership transfer differs significantly. In the UK, leaders leave office peacefully if they lose an election or the support of their party. In North Korea, power is concentrated in one family (the Kims) and often maintained through purges or force.Excellent comparison of how power is held and transferred.

Model Answer (2 marks)

1. Contract disputes, such as a customer suing a business for faulty goods or services.This is a perfect example of a civil case.

2. Negligence claims, for example someone seeking compensation for an injury caused by another person's carelessness.This is a second, distinct, and correct example.

Model Answer (3 marks)

1. A custodial sentence (prison), where an offender's liberty is removed.Correct.

2. A community sentence, which could involve carrying out unpaid work.Correct.

3. A fine, which requires the offender to pay a financial penalty.Correct.

Model Answer (2 marks)

One way Youth Courts differ is that they are less formal than adult courts.This correctly identifies a key difference. For example, the public is not allowed in, and the judge or magistrates may sit at the same level as the young person to make the experience less intimidating.This specific example clearly explains *how* the court is less formal, securing the second mark.

Model Answer (2 marks)

1. The right to get free and independent legal advice from a solicitor.This is a key, specific right.

2. The right to remain silent (although they must be warned that it may harm their defence if they fail to mention something they later rely on in court).This is a second, distinct, and legally guaranteed right.

Model Answer (6 marks)

Magistrates bring significant benefits to the legal system. Firstly, as the source states, they are local people, which means they have a good understanding of their community and its specific problems.Good use of the source to make a clear point. This local knowledge can help them make more informed and relevant sentencing decisions.

Secondly, because they are not professional judges, the source says they ensure the law and its application 'reflect ordinary people'.Excellent link between the nature of magistrates and public perception. This helps to build 'huge trust' in the justice system, making the public feel it is being administered by their peers, not by a distant elite.

Finally, magistrates are volunteers and are therefore very cost-effective. Given that they handle 95% of all criminal cases, they save the taxpayer a vast amount of money compared to if all these cases were heard by salaried judges.A strong point of own knowledge that develops the information in the source.

Model Answer (12 marks)

While both Tony Blair and the Institute for Government (IfG) present valid points, I agree more with the IfG’s view that devolution has largely failed to achieve its key objectives and has created new problems.A perfect start. It directly answers the question with a clear judgement and acknowledges the complexity of the issue.

The IfG’s argument is more persuasive because it is supported by measurable evidence. For example, it correctly points out that a primary goal of devolution was to curb the desire for Scottish independence, yet "support for independence has grown from 27% before devolution to about 45% today."This is excellent use of the source. You have selected a powerful piece of statistical evidence to support your argument. This is a significant failure that Blair’s argument does not address... The IfG’s argument is stronger because it focuses on the tangible, negative outcomes of devolution rather than its more abstract, unproven benefits.This is a superb piece of evaluation. You are directly comparing the quality of the evidence and explaining why one argument is stronger than the other.

While Tony Blair rightly celebrates the role of devolution in bringing peace to Northern Ireland, his argument is weakened by its failure to acknowledge the downsides... The fact that Scottish and Welsh university students pay lower tuition fees than English students is a clear example of this unfairness, which has created resentment and division rather than unity.This is an excellent use of your own knowledge to support and explain a point from the source, demonstrating a deeper understanding of the topic.

In conclusion, I find the IfG’s argument more convincing. Although devolution did contribute to peace in Northern Ireland, the IfG provides stronger evidence to show that in its other key aims—such as uniting the country and improving public services—it has not succeeded.A powerful conclusion that summarises your main points and provides a final, reasoned justification for your overall judgement.

Model Answer (15 marks)

I largely disagree with the view that the ages for legal responsibility need to be increased, as each responsibility has different requirements and a blanket increase would be inappropriate.This is a strong, nuanced thesis that establishes a clear line of argument.

For example, the right to vote at 18 is a cornerstone of democracy. Young people have a significant stake in the future of the country, especially concerning issues like climate change and the economy. To increase the voting age would be to disenfranchise a key part of the population and weaken the principle of democratic representation.A well-developed argument linking a specific right to a core democratic value. While some may argue 18-year-olds can be irresponsible, this is not a valid reason to deny a fundamental right.

On the other hand, there may be a case for reviewing other ages of responsibility based on scientific evidence. For example, neuroscientists argue that the part of the brain responsible for risk assessment is not fully developed until the mid-20s. This could support an argument for increasing the age for driving, where impulsivity can have lethal consequences.Excellent evaluation, introducing a counter-argument and supporting it with scientific concepts. This shows that the issue is not simple.

In conclusion, while safety concerns might justify reviewing the age for specific high-risk activities like driving, democratic principles strongly support keeping the voting age at 18. Therefore, a one-size-fits-all increase is not a logical approach; instead, each age of responsibility must be judged on its own balance of rights, duties, and risks.A powerful and sophisticated conclusion that summarises the nuanced argument and provides a clear final judgement.

Mark Scheme (1 Mark)

Correct Answer: B

The United States of America has not ratified the UN convention on the Rights of the Child.

Mark Scheme (1 Mark)

Correct Answer: D

Being treated differently because of your religion is classed as discrimination.

Mark Scheme (4 Marks)

Acceptable Principles of Democracy:

• Free Speech: Allows different opinions to be voiced and ensures choice.
• Respect/Tolerance: Treating people with an equal right to express views.
• Right to Vote: Guarantees representation for every person.
• Associations: Right to form groups allows collective approaches to problems.
• Rule of Law: Acceptance of rules that are binding on all.

Mark Scheme (2 Marks)

Examples of promoting community cohesion:

• Schools promoting common values/interests.
• Promoting British values (mutual respect).
• Gaining understanding of different backgrounds in a neighbourhood.
• Creating local partnerships to unite the community.
• Recreation/Sporting events bringing communities together.
• Active community centres hosting events.
• Local council integration initiatives.
• Neighbourhood groups (e.g., Neighbourhood Watch).

Mark Scheme (2 Marks)

Reasons to restrict free speech:

• War time: To protect state security.
• Harm/Fear: To prevent hate speech or harm to wider society.
• False Facts: To prevent vigilante action against innocent people.
• Unfair Impact: E.g., biased comments before a fair trial.
• Legal Settings: Contempt of court or injunctions.

Mark Scheme (6 Marks)

Indicative Content (How identity is varied/accepted):

• Locality: Identifying with a region, area, or nationality.
• Appearance: Defining identity through clothes/style of dress.
• Gender/Sexuality: Additional layers of identity.
• Religion: Identifying with a faith that supports a specific lifestyle.
• Ethnicity/Culture: Sharing values and history with a specific ethnic group.

Mark Scheme (1 Mark)

Roles of the Chancellor:

• Runs the Treasury department.
• Allocates spending to government departments.
• Chief Financial Officer of the country.
• Responsible for raising tax.
• Decides how government spends money.

Mark Scheme (4 Marks)

Features of UK Constitution:

• Uncodified: Not found in one single document.
• Flexible: Easily changed/amended as it is not entrenched.
• Conventions: Traditions accepted as binding rules (though not legally enforceable).
• Statutes: Derived from Acts of Parliament.
• Works of Authority: Interpreted by texts from constitutional experts.
• Constitutional Monarchy: Prominent ceremonial role for the Monarch.
• Rights: Features rights like free speech/assembly.

Mark Scheme (3 Marks)

Issues of Disagreement:

• Economic policy (taxation and spending).
• Support levels for the vulnerable.
• NHS funding allocation.
• Immigration levels (e.g., Rwanda plan).
• UK Bill of Rights.
• Privatisation vs Nationalisation.
• Attitudes to the EU.
• Solutions to cost-of-living crisis.

Mark Scheme (1 Mark)

Correct Answer: C

They are an example of direct democracy granted by Parliament.

Mark Scheme (1 Mark)

Correct Answer: D

All Ministers and the PM are appointed by the Monarch.

Mark Scheme (1 Mark)

Correct Answer: B

The House of Lords is comprised of those three types of peer (Life, Hereditary, Spiritual).

Mark Scheme (6 Marks)

Comparison: UK vs North Korea

• Separation of Powers: UK has separation (Legislature/Executive/Judiciary); NK has vast overlap.
• Parties: UK has multiple parties/opposition; NK allows only one party.
• Leaving Office: UK leaders leave peacefully; NK leaders may be purged/executed.
• Legislation: UK laws come from democratic elections; NK laws are at the demand of the leader.
• Military: UK army is apolitical; NK army is politically significant.
• Power Transfer: UK has competitive elections; NK concentrates power in one family.

Mark Scheme (2 Marks)

Types of Civil Court cases:

• Business law (contracts).
• Wills and probate.
• Divorce.
• Family matters (adoption/children's rights).
• Property disputes.
• Personal injury claims.

Mark Scheme (3 Marks)

Methods of Punishment:

• Custodial sentence (Jail).
• Suspended prison sentence.
• Curfew orders / Tagging.
• Fines.
• Community Service / Community Payback.
• Probation.
• Restorative Justice.

Mark Scheme (2 Marks)

Differences in Youth Courts:

• Privacy: Public not allowed to witness proceedings.
• Formality: Proceedings are less formal than adult courts.
• Specialism: Magistrates are specifically trained for young offenders.
• Support: Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Mark Scheme (1 Mark)

Correct Answer: C

Restorative Justice definition.

Mark Scheme (2 Marks)

Rights on Arrest:

• Right to know the reason for arrest.
• Right to inform another person.
• Right to see a solicitor (legal advice).
• Right to remain silent.
• Arrest must lay foundation for a fair trial.

Mark Scheme (6 Marks)

Benefits of Magistrates (Source-based):

• Long history of service/performance.
• Handle the vast bulk of criminal cases (huge workload).
• Received specialized training (Family/Youth).
• Local recruitment connects law to the community (trust).
• Diversity reflects a cross-section of society.
• Cost-effective / Value for money.

Mark Scheme (1 Mark)

Correct Answer: C

Support for Welsh devolution has increased.

Mark Scheme (1 Mark)

Correct Answer: D

Devolution operates in an uneven manner across the UK.

Mark Scheme (2 Marks)

Areas of Agreement in Source:

• New policies have arisen in devolved regions.
• Devolution created a new constitutional settlement.
• Devolution was originally an attempt to curb Scottish independence enthusiasm.

Mark Scheme (12 Marks)

Indicative Content (Devolution Evaluation):

Arguments For (Success):

• Decision making is closer to those affected.
• Flexibility in policy creation.
• Enhanced civic pride and regional identity.
• Reduced immediate break-up of the UK.
• NI devolution promoted peace/shared government.
• New Mayors gave cities identity.

Arguments Against (Failure):

• Has not quelled Scottish independence demands.
• NI assembly often suspended/inoperative.
• Wales has faults in progressing/developing services.
• 'New policies' haven't produced substance.
• Uneven process = different outcomes for citizens.

Mark Scheme (15 Marks)

Indicative Content (Legal Ages):

Arguments for Increasing Ages:

• Voting: 18 is too low, should be 21 (maturity).
• Education: Should be compulsory until 21.
• Driving: Dangerous responsibility, defer to 21 to reduce deaths.
• Marriage: Already raised to 18 (forced marriage protection).
• Criminal Liability: Age of 10 is too young compared to other countries.
• Sexual Consent: Increase to 18 for protection.

Arguments for Decreasing Ages / Against Increasing:

• Voting: Reduce to 16 (young people are educated/mature).
• Driving: Reduce to 16 (earlier learning).
• Marriage: Lower to 16 without parental consent.
• Work: Allow leaving education earlier for vocational skills.
• Other: Lower age for pets, games/films, etc.