Question 1: Who is eligible to vote in a UK general election? List the main criteria.

Answer: The main criteria are that the person must be at least 18 years old, a British citizen or a qualifying Commonwealth citizen, and registered to vote.

Question 2: Explain why voting is considered an important part of a democracy.

Answer: Voting allows citizens to choose their leaders and influence government decisions, ensuring that the government represents the people's wishes and upholds democratic principles.

Question 3: Describe the process a citizen goes through to cast their vote in a UK election.

Answer: A citizen registers to vote, receives a polling card, visits a polling station on election day, shows identification, receives a ballot paper, marks their choice in secret, and places the ballot in the ballot box.

Question 4: What is the purpose of a political party's manifesto during an election?

Answer: A manifesto outlines the policies and promises a party intends to implement if elected, helping voters decide which party aligns with their views.

Question 5: Identify two reasons why some people might choose not to vote.

Answer: Some people may feel their vote doesn't matter or believe that all politicians are the same. Others might be too busy or disillusioned with the political system.

Question 6: Draw a simple sketch of a ballot paper used in UK elections. Label the main parts such as the candidate's name, party, and the area for marking the vote.

Answer: A rectangular shape divided into sections with the candidate's name and party listed, a box or circle for the voter to mark, and clear labels for each part.

Question 7: Imagine you are voting in an election. Write down three questions you might consider before deciding which candidate to vote for.

Answer: What are their policies on education? How do they plan to improve healthcare? Do I agree with their views on the environment?

Question 8: Explain what is meant by 'general election' in the UK.

Answer: A general election is an election where Members of Parliament (MPs) are chosen to represent the different areas of the UK in Parliament.

Question 9: Describe one way in which voting in the UK is made accessible to people with disabilities.

Answer: Voting stations may have ramps, accessible voting booths, or provide assistance to help people with disabilities cast their vote independently.

Question 10: Discuss why it is important for all eligible citizens to participate in elections.

Answer: Participating ensures that everyone's views are heard, promotes fairness, helps choose effective leaders, and strengthens democracy by encouraging political engagement.

Question 11: What is a by-election, and when might it occur?

Answer: A by-election occurs when a seat in Parliament becomes vacant between general elections, often due to resignation or death of an MP.