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

Answer: Voting allows citizens to choose their leaders and influence decisions that affect their lives. It helps ensure that the government represents the people's wishes.

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

Answer: Be at least 18 years old, be a British citizen or meet specific residency requirements, and be registered to vote.

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

Answer: Local elections decide who will be responsible for local issues like schools and roads, while general elections determine the overall government and national policies.

Question 4: What is meant by the term 'plurality voting' in UK elections?

Answer: It means that the candidate with the most votes wins, even if they do not receive more than half of the total votes.

Question 5: Imagine you are a voter in the UK. Describe the steps you would take from deciding to vote to casting your ballot.

Answer: First, I would register to vote if I haven't already. On election day, I would go to my designated polling station, show my identification if required, receive my ballot paper, mark my preferred candidate, and then place my ballot in the ballot box.

Question 6: Draw a simple diagram to show the process of voting in a polling station. Label each step clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would include: a voter arriving at the polling station, presenting ID, receiving a ballot paper, marking their choice in private, and placing the ballot into the ballot box.

Question 7: Why might some people choose not to vote, even if they are eligible?

Answer: Some people may feel their vote doesn't matter, be disillusioned with politics, or find voting inconvenient or confusing.

Question 8: Explain how voting helps protect democratic rights in the UK.

Answer: Voting gives citizens the power to choose their leaders and influence laws, ensuring the government remains accountable and representative of the people's wishes.

Question 9: Identify two ways the government encourages people to participate in voting.

Answer: By running awareness campaigns and making registration easy through online or postal options.

Question 10: Write a short paragraph about what could happen if many people choose not to vote.

Answer: If many people do not vote, the elected government might not truly represent the views of the majority. This could lead to less legitimacy for the government and policies that do not reflect the needs of the population.