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

Answer: Voting allows citizens to choose their leaders and make decisions that affect the country, ensuring that the government represents the people's wishes.

Question 2: Who is eligible to vote in UK general elections? List the main requirements.

Answer: Citizens must be at least 18 years old, be registered to vote, and be a British citizen, or a citizen of the Commonwealth or the Republic of Ireland living in the UK.

Question 3: Describe the process a person would follow to vote in a UK general election.

Answer: A person registers to vote, receives a voter ID card or registration confirmation, goes to their designated polling station on election day, presents their ID or registration details, and casts their vote in secret using a ballot paper.

Question 4: What are political parties, and why do people vote for them?

Answer: Political parties are groups of people with similar ideas about how the country should be run. People vote for them to support policies they agree with and to help elect representatives who will implement those policies.

Question 5: Identify and explain two reasons why some eligible voters might choose not to vote.

Answer: Some voters might feel their vote does not matter or they are not interested in politics. Others might be unable to vote due to illness or travel away from their polling station.

Question 6: Draw a simple sketch of a ballot paper used in UK elections. Include spaces for the candidate's name and the voter’s mark.

Answer: A rectangular paper with a list of candidate names or party names, each next to a box or circle where the voter can mark their choice.

Question 7: Explain what an 'electoral register' is and why it is important.

Answer: The electoral register is a list of all people who are registered to vote in an area. It ensures only eligible voters can participate and helps organize elections.

Question 8: Describe what happens if a person tries to vote but is not registered or is not on the electoral register.

Answer: They will not be allowed to vote because only registered voters are permitted to cast a ballot in elections.

Question 9: Imagine you are voting for your favourite school project. Write a short paragraph explaining why voting is a fair way to decide the winner.

Answer: Voting is fair because everyone has an equal say, and the project with the most votes wins. It allows all students to participate and makes the decision democratic.

Question 10: What actions can citizens take if they believe there has been election fraud or unfair voting practices?

Answer: Citizens can report concerns to election officials, contact the Electoral Commission, or participate in campaigns for electoral integrity and transparency.