Question 1: Explain why voting is an important right and responsibility for citizens in a democracy.

Answer: Voting allows citizens to choose their leaders and influence government decisions, ensuring the government represents the people's wishes. It also helps maintain a fair and functioning democracy.

Question 2: List three qualifications a person must meet to be eligible to vote in UK general elections.

Answer: Be at least 18 years old, be a British citizen or a citizen of the Commonwealth or the Republic of Ireland, and be registered to vote.

Question 3: Describe the main purpose of a general election in the UK.

Answer: A general election is held to choose Members of Parliament (MPs) who will form the government and make decisions on laws and policies for the country.

Question 4: Imagine you are voting for a new local council. List two factors you might consider when choosing a candidate.

Answer: Their policies on local issues such as schools or roads, and their experience or reputation in the community.

Question 5: Explain what a political party is and give an example of one in the UK.

Answer: A political party is a group of people who share similar ideas about how the country should be run. An example is the Labour Party.

Question 6: Draw a simple diagram showing the process of how a person votes in an election. Include the steps from receiving the ballot paper to casting the vote.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a voter receiving a ballot paper, going to a voting booth, marking their choice in secret, folding the ballot, and placing it into the ballot box.

Question 7: Why is it important for all eligible citizens to vote in elections?

Answer: Because it ensures that the government represents the wishes of the majority, and it helps maintain a fair and democratic society where everyone's voice can be heard.

Question 8: Describe what might happen if many eligible people choose not to vote.

Answer: The election results could be unfair or unrepresentative, and the government might not reflect the views of most people, weakening democracy.

Question 9: Identify two ways the government encourages people to vote.

Answer: By running awareness campaigns and providing information on how and where to vote.

Question 10: Explain the term 'democracy' in your own words.

Answer: A system of government where people have the power to choose their leaders and make decisions through voting.

Question 11: Sketch a simple ballot paper used in UK elections. Label the areas for the candidate's name and the voter's mark.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a rectangular paper with a list of candidate names or parties, a space next to each for marking a vote, and instructions such as 'Vote for one candidate only.'