Question 1: What is the main purpose of voting in a democracy?

Answer: The main purpose of voting in a democracy is to choose representatives or make decisions that reflect the will of the people.

Question 2: List three groups of people who are eligible to vote in the UK general elections.

Answer: British citizens aged 18 or over who are registered to vote, Commonwealth citizens living in the UK, and qualifying citizens of the Republic of Ireland aged 18 or over.

Question 3: Explain why voting is considered a civic duty.

Answer: Voting is considered a civic duty because it allows citizens to participate in the democratic process, influence decisions that affect society, and fulfill their responsibility as members of the community.

Question 4: Describe the process a person must go through to cast their vote in a UK general election.

Answer: A person must be registered to vote, go to their designated polling station on election day, present identification if required, receive a ballot paper, mark their choice in secret, and then place the ballot paper in the ballot box.

Question 5: Why is it important for everyone to vote? Provide at least two reasons.

Answer: It is important because it ensures that the government represents the wishes of the people, and it helps maintain a fair and functioning democracy by encouraging participation.

Question 6: Identify and explain one reason why some people choose not to vote.

Answer: Some people choose not to vote because they feel their vote does not make a difference, or they are dissatisfied with the available candidates or political system.

Question 7: Draw a diagram to show the steps involved in voting during an election. Label each step clearly.

Answer: A clear diagram showing the steps: 1) Registering to vote, 2) Going to the polling station, 3) Showing identification, 4) Receiving ballot paper, 5) Marking the ballot in secret, 6) Placing the ballot in the box.

Question 8: What does it mean to have a 'free and fair' election? Describe in your own words.

Answer: A 'free and fair' election means that all candidates and voters are able to participate without intimidation or unfair restrictions, and that the process is transparent and unbiased.

Question 9: Explain how voting helps protect the rights of individuals in a democracy.

Answer: Voting helps protect individual rights by allowing citizens to influence laws and policies, hold leaders accountable, and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making.

Question 10: Sketch a voting ballot paper used in UK elections. Include space for the candidate's name and a method for voting.

Answer: A simple rectangular shape divided into sections: one section for candidate names with checkboxes or circles next to each, and instructions indicating to mark with an 'X' or a tick.