Question 1: Explain why voting is an important part of democracy.

Answer: Voting allows citizens to choose their leaders and influence decisions, ensuring the government represents the people's views.

Question 2: List three reasons why someone might choose not to vote in a general election.

Answer: They may feel their vote doesn't matter, be uninterested in politics, or be unable to get to the polling station.

Question 3: Describe the main difference between a general election and a local election.

Answer: A general election chooses Members of Parliament for the entire country, while a local election selects representatives for local councils.

Question 4: Who is eligible to vote in UK general elections? List at least three conditions.

Answer: They must be at least 18 years old, a British citizen or a Commonwealth citizen with status, and registered to vote.

Question 5: Explain what is meant by 'the right to vote' and why it has been important historically.

Answer: The right to vote means citizens can choose representatives; historically, it has been important because it helped expand equality and give people a voice.

Question 6: Imagine you are a voter going to cast your ballot. Describe what you would do at the polling station.

Answer: I would show my voter ID or registration, receive a ballot paper, go behind a privacy screen, mark my choice with a pen, and then place my ballot into the ballot box.

Question 7: Draw a simple diagram showing the process of voting in a polling station. Include at least four steps and label them.

Answer: A correct sketch would show: 1) arriving at the polling station, 2) showing ID/registration, 3) casting the vote behind a privacy screen, 4) dropping the ballot into the ballot box.

Question 8: What are political parties, and why do they play a key role in elections?

Answer: Political parties are groups that share similar ideas and aim to gain power through elections; they help organize choices for voters and form governments.

Question 9: Suggest two ways young people can get involved in politics besides voting.

Answer: They can join youth political groups, attend community meetings, or participate in campaigns and debates.

Question 10: Why is it important for all eligible citizens to participate in elections?

Answer: Because it ensures that the government reflects the views of the population, promotes fairness, and strengthens democracy.