Democracy in Scotland

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. Pressure groups
2. One method used by pressure groups to gain influence in a democracy is to organise a protest. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
3. One method used by pressure groups to gain influence in a democracy is to organise a protest. This will gain media attention and raise public awareness for the group’s cause. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
4. Trade unions
5. One method used by trade unions to gain influence in a democracy is to organise a strike. A strike is when union members withdraw their labour to show how strongly they feel about an issue. For example, the Education Institute for Scotland (EIS) organised a number of targeted strikes in 2023 to back their ‘Pay Attent10n’ campaign for better pay for members. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. Pressure groups
2. lobby representatives
3. media campaigns
4. direct action
5. petitions.
6. Trade unions
7. work to rule
8. go slow
9. overtime ban
10. protests
11. media campaigns.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One reason why some people are more likely to participate in politics in Scotland is because they believe it is their right. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One reason why some people are more likely to participate in politics in Scotland is because they believe it is their right. In a democracy people have a number of rights that mean they can freely participate in politics such as protesting and voting. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One reason why some people are more likely to participate in politics in Scotland is because they believe it is their right. In a democracy people have a number of rights that mean they can freely participate in politics such as protesting and voting. For example, 53% of people in Scotland took part in the 2026 Scottish Parliament election. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. One reason why some people are more likely to participate in politics in Scotland is because they believe it is their right. In a democracy people have a number of rights that mean they can freely participate in politics such as protesting and voting. For example, people in Scotland will be asked to vote in the next Scottish elections in May 2026. People believe that participation is important to make sure they have a voice and that the government listens to their views. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. interested in politics — politically active
2. age — older people
3. knowledgeable — politically literate
4. hold the government to account
5. have role models
6. feel strongly about an issue or cause.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. Committees play an important role in the Scottish Parliament because they can conduct inquiries. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Committees play an important role in the Scottish Parliament because they can conduct inquiries. They can investigate a specific issue within their remit. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Committees play an important role in the Scottish Parliament because they can conduct inquiries. They can investigate a specific issue within their remit. This is important as they can call witnesses, such as government ministers, to give evidence. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Committees play an important role in the Scottish Parliament because they can conduct inquiries. They can investigate a specific issue within their remit. This is important as they can call witnesses, such as government ministers, to give evidence. For example, the Criminal Justice Committee have recently called for views on the harm caused by substance misuse in Scottish prisons. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. committee bills
2. scrutinise bills
3. make recommendations/produce reports
4. consider petitions.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One way an MSP represents their constituents is by introducing a members' bill. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One way an MSP represents their constituents is by introducing a members' bill. This is a non-governmental bill put forward by an MSP on an issue that they believe is important. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One way an MSP represents their constituents is by introducing a members' bill. This is a non-governmental bill put forward by an MSP on an issue that they believe is important. For example, MSP Monica Lennon introduced the Period Products (Free Provision) bill in 2019 to tackle the issue of period poverty. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. voting on new laws or amendments
2. FMQTs
3. work of committees
4. taking part in debates.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One reason why the First Minister is powerful is because they can hire and fire ministers to the government. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One reason why the First Minister is powerful is because they can hire and fire ministers to the government. These ministers form the cabinet and help the First Minister run the country on a day-to-day basis. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One reason why the First Minister is powerful is because they can hire and fire ministers to the government. These ministers form the cabinet and help the First Minister run the country on a day-to-day basis. This makes them powerful as they are able to use this power to surround themselves with ministers who will support their ideas. (3 marks — accurate point with development and analysis)
4. One reason why the First Minister is powerful is because they can hire and fire ministers to the government. These ministers form the cabinet and help the First Minister run the country on a day-to-day basis. This makes them powerful as they are able to use this power to surround themselves with ministers who will support their ideas. For example, Humza Yousaf appointed Neil Gray as Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care after the previous minister resigned. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. attends international meetings
2. privy council member
3. leader of the biggest party in the Scottish Parliament
4. public policy direction.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One advantage of the Additional Member System is that it provides more choice to voters. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One advantage of the Additional Member System is that it provides more choice to voters. This is because voters are given two votes, one for a candidate and one for a party. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One advantage of the Additional Member System is that it provides more choice to voters. This is because voters are given two votes, one for a candidate and one for a party. For example, in 2021 Nicola Sturgeon was elected to the Glasgow Southside constituency alongside seven regional Glasgow MSPs from different political parties. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. One disadvantage of the Additional Member System is that it creates two types of MSPs which can cause confusion for some voters. This is because after the election some voters do not know who to go to with an issue or problem, as they have a total of eight MSPs representing them. As a result, this often means that the more widely recognised MSP, which is normally the constituency representative, tends to have a heavier workload than the regional MSPs that constituents are less familiar with. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. Advantages
2. retains constituency/MSP link
3. proportional results
4. fairer on smaller parties.
5. Disadvantages
6. coalitions more likely
7. minority governments can occur
8. more complex than other systems.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One political right individuals have is the right to vote. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One political right individuals have is the right to vote. Individuals can vote in elections and referendums. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One political right individuals have is the right to vote. Individuals can vote in elections and referendums. For example, in the 2021 Scottish Parliament election. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. right to stand as a candidate
2. right to protest
3. right to join a political party
4. right to join a pressure group.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One devolved matter that the Scottish Parliament has responsibility for is education. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One devolved matter that the Scottish Parliament has responsibility for is education. This means they can make decisions for primary and secondary schools and universities. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One devolved matter that the Scottish Parliament has responsibility for is education. This means they can make decisions for primary and secondary schools and universities. For example, in 2020 the Scottish Government made the decision to close all schools and cancel exams due to COVID-19. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. housing
2. health
3. transport
4. energy
5. justice.

TRADE UNIONS

1. Trade unions are influential because they can have large memberships. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Trade unions are influential because they can have large memberships. This gives a trade union access to large amounts of resources for campaigning. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Trade unions are influential because they can have large memberships. This gives a trade union access to large amounts of resources for campaigning. For example, the EIS has over 60,000 members who pay annual memberships. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Trade unions are influential because they can have large memberships. This gives a trade union access to large amounts of resources for campaigning. For example, the EIS has over 60,000 members who pay annual memberships. This enabled the EIS to be successful in the campaign for improved pay for teachers. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following (trade unions):

1. industrial action
2. insider group
3. lobbying
4. use of media platforms.

PRESSURE GROUPS

1. Pressure groups are influential because they can have large memberships. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Pressure groups are influential because they can have large memberships. This gives pressure groups access to large amounts of resources for campaigning. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Pressure groups are influential because they can have large memberships. This gives pressure groups access to large amounts of resources for campaigning. For example, the RSPB has over one million members in the UK. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Pressure groups are influential because they can have large memberships. This gives pressure groups access to large amounts of resources for campaigning. For example, the RSPB has over one million members in the UK. This enables them to have significant campaigns in relation to nature and the climate crisis. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following (pressure groups):

1. national campaigns
2. insider group
3. lobbying
4. use of media platforms.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One way that committees can play an important role in the Scottish Parliament is through their ability to conduct inquiries. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One way that committees can play an important role in the Scottish Parliament is through their ability to conduct inquiries. This is when a committee decides to investigate an issue within their remit. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One way that committees can play an important role in the Scottish Parliament is through their ability to conduct inquiries. This is when a committee decides to investigate an issue within their remit. This is important because they can call witnesses, such as government ministers, to give evidence. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. One way that committees can play an important role in the Scottish Parliament is through their ability to conduct inquiries. This is when a committee decides to investigate an issue within their remit. This is important because they can call witnesses, such as government ministers, to give evidence. For example, the COVID-19 recovery committee called the then Deputy First Minister John Swinney to answer for government action. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. committee bills
2. scrutinise bills
3. make recommendations/produce reports
4. consider petitions.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One feature of the Additional Member System is that the result is proportional. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One feature of the Additional Member System is that the result is proportional. This is because the percentage of seats reflects the percentage of votes cast for political parties. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One feature of the Additional Member System is that the result is proportional. This is because the percentage of seats reflects the percentage of votes cast for political parties. For example, in the 2021 election to the Scottish Parliament the Conservative Party gained 23.5% of the vote and gained 24% of the seats. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. two votes — greater choice
2. ‘split ticket’
3. advantageous to smaller parties
4. fewer wasted votes
5. coalitions.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One way individuals can participate in election campaigns is by canvassing. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One way individuals can participate in election campaigns is by canvassing. Traditionally, supporters of a party would go door to door looking to generate support for their favoured candidate or party. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One way individuals can participate in election campaigns is by canvassing. Traditionally, supporters of a party would go door to door looking to generate support for their favoured candidate or party. For example, a member of the SNP might have canvassed for Nicola Sturgeon, within her constituency of Glasgow Southside, during the 2021 Scottish Parliamentary elections. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. poster in window to show support
2. retweet/share social media post
3. donate money to a campaign
4. promote policies using car/loudspeaker
5. join a political party
6. become party activist
7. leafleting.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. The media is influential within a democracy because they hold the government to account. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. The media is influential within a democracy because they hold the government to account. TV, newspapers and radio are free to report on, and criticise the actions of the government. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. The media is influential within a democracy because they hold the government to account. TV, newspapers and radio are free to report on, and criticise the actions of the government. For example, the Scottish media were critical of the Scottish Government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. The media is influential within a democracy because they hold the government to account. TV, newspapers and radio are free to report on, and criticise the actions of the government. For example, the Scottish media were critical of the Scottish Government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. This means that the government must be ready to answer for any actions or policy failures that are reported. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. provides easy access to representatives — social media
2. educate the public on important issues
3. stimulates public debate on issues of importance
4. promotes participation in the decision-making process
5. measures public opinion.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. The First Minister is very powerful because they can hire and fire individuals to help them run the country. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. The First Minister is very powerful because they can hire and fire individuals to help them run the country. This makes them powerful as they can surround themselves with people who agree with and support their ideas. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. The First Minister is very powerful because they can hire and fire individuals to help them run the country. This makes them powerful as they can surround themselves with people who agree with and support their ideas. For example, in 2023 the First Minister Humza Yousaf appointed Shona Robison to the post of Deputy First Minister. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. The First Minister is very powerful because they can hire and fire individuals to help them run the country. This makes them powerful as they can surround themselves with people who agree with and support their ideas. For example, in 2021 then First Minister Nicola Sturgeon appointed Shirley-Anne Somerville to the position of Cabinet Secretary for Education. This meant they had to work closely together on matters relating to education and as a cabinet member she supported the First Minister in public. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. attend international meetings on behalf of the government
2. meets with international leaders and Heads of State
3. strategic policy direction
4. leader of the largest party in the Scottish Parliament.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. One key feature of a democracy is voting. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One key feature of a democracy is voting. In Scotland, people can vote for their MSP to represent them in Parliament. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One key feature of a democracy is voting. In Scotland, people can vote for their MSP to represent them in Parliament. For example, in 2021 the constituents in Falkirk West voted for Michael Matheson to be their constituency MSP. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. right to free speech
2. right to protest
3. freedom of the media
4. independent judiciary
5. organised opposition parties.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. One-way MSPs represent their constituents is by asking a question at First Minister's Question Time. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One-way MSPs represent their constituents is by asking a question at First Minister's Question Time. This allows MSPs to hold the Scottish Government to account. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One-way MSPs represent their constituents is by asking a question at First Minister's Question Time. This allows MSPs to hold the Scottish Government to account. For example, Douglas Ross asked Nicola Sturgeon about drug deaths in November 2021. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. attend meetings with other local representatives/business leaders
2. participate in the work of Committees
3. respond to constituents' enquiries
4. take part in parliamentary debates
5. introduce a members' bill
6. vote on new laws.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. One advantage of the Additional Member System is that it is a more proportional system. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One advantage of the Additional Member System is that it is a more proportional system. This is because the percentage of votes more closely relates to the percentage of seats won by a party. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One advantage of the Additional Member System is that it is a more proportional system. This is because the percentage of votes more closely relates to the percentage of seats won by a party. For example, the 2021 Scottish Parliament elections saw a maximum difference of 6% between the votes received and the MSPs returned. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. One advantage of the Additional Member System is that it is a more proportional system. This is because the percentage of votes more closely relates to the percentage of seats won by a party. For example, the 2021 Scottish Parliament elections saw a maximum difference of 6% between the votes received and the MSPs returned. In turn this allows for a larger representation of views to be heard. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis).

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Advantages

1. retains elements of FPTP so some direct representation — voters in every constituency know who to contact
2. greater choice — each voter can contact a number of MSPs due to the regional list element
3. smaller parties can be successful
4. fewer wasted votes.

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Disadvantages

1. more complex than FPTP
2. multiple representatives may cause confusion for some voters
3. not the most proportional system
4. minority governments can occur
5. coalitions are likely.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Some people are less likely than others to participate in politics in Scotland because they believe their voice does not count. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Some people are less likely than others to participate in politics in Scotland because they believe their voice does not count. This can be because they live in safe seat areas and are put off participating in elections because the same party wins all the time. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Some people are less likely than others to participate in politics in Scotland because they believe their voice does not count. This can be because they live in safe seat areas and are put off participating in elections because the same party wins all the time. For example, the safest seat in Scotland is Dundee City East with an SNP majority of 13,337. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Some people are less likely than others to participate in politics in the UK because they believe their voice does not count. This can be because they live in safe seat areas and are put off participating in elections because the same party wins all the time. For example, the safest seat in Scotland is Dundee City East with a SNP majority of 13,337. Therefore, anyone in this constituency who does not support the SNP may feel it is a waste of time to participate in elections. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis).

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. lack of interest in politics
2. lack of knowledge about politics — politically illiterate
3. disillusionment in political system
4. age — too young
5. distrust of politicians
6. doesn't think participation makes a difference
7. lack of role models — race and gender.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One role of the First Minister is to give public information briefings during a pandemic. (1 mark — accurate but underdeveloped point)
2. One role of the First Minister is to give public information briefings during a pandemic. From March 2020, Nicola Sturgeon has been giving regular briefings on the coronavirus. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One role of the First Minister is to give public information briefings during a pandemic. From March 2020, Nicola Sturgeon has been giving regular briefings on the coronavirus. This has informed the public in relation to confirmed cases, numbers of deaths related to the disease and measures being introduced to try and prevent further spread of the virus. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. leader of the Scottish Government
2. implementation and presentation of government policies
3. appoints other Ministers
4. chairs the Cabinet
5. responsible for nominating judges.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. Women are underrepresented in the Scottish Parliament because they may have caring responsibilities to deal with. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Women are underrepresented in the Scottish Parliament because they may have caring responsibilities to deal with. Women, with children, are often the main carer and might find it difficult working in Edinburgh depending on where they live in Scotland. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Women are underrepresented in the Scottish Parliament because they may have caring responsibilities to deal with. Women, with children, are often the main carer and might find it difficult working in Edinburgh depending on where they live in Scotland. For example, a single female parent, living in Aberdeen with young children may find it extremely difficult to manage a family and a career as an MSP given the travelling to and from the Scottish Parliament as well as finding suitable childcare. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Women are underrepresented in the Scottish Parliament because they may have caring responsibilities to deal with. Women, with children, are often the main carer and might find it difficult working in Edinburgh depending on where they live in Scotland. For example, a single female parent, living in Aberdeen with young children may find it extremely difficult to manage a family and a career as an MSP given the travelling to and from the Scottish Parliament as well as finding suitable childcare. The underrepresentation is clearly evident with only 36% of MSPs being female in March 2020. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. less likely to stand as candidates
2. culture of politics/parliament
3. selection process
4. sexist attitudes
5. lack of role models
6. self-esteem/confidence issue
7. other opportunities
8. working conditions.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. People may wish to join a pressure group because they are interested in the cause. (1 mark — accurate but underdeveloped point)
2. People may wish to join a pressure group because they are interested in the cause. They may want to support the group to influence the government and/or public. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. People may wish to join a pressure group because they are interested in the cause. They may want to support the group to influence the government and/or public. For example, a person who felt strongly about climate change might have joined Extinction Rebellion and take part in their ‘die-in’ protest in Central Station in Glasgow. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Some people in Scotland may join a trade union because they want to improve their pay. If the trade union members were unhappy with their level of pay, they can ask their trade union to speak on their behalf to employers. For example, during the coronavirus pandemic the trade union, UNISON Scotland, began the ‘Pay up Now’ campaign to get their members a decent pay rise. This campaign was a success because the Scottish Government agreed to talks about a pay rise for NHS workers. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. Pressure groups:
2. to participate in pressure group actions
3. to offer support
4. to provide financial assistance
5. to improve chances of success
6. influenced by pressure group campaigns
7. peer influence
8. social media activities.
9. Trade unions:
10. to improve wages
11. to improve working conditions
12. financial benefits
13. to participate within union democracy
14. influence of colleagues.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. The Scottish Parliament is responsible for the matter of education. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. The Scottish Parliament is responsible for the matter of education. MSPs can discuss and make changes to the education system in Scotland. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. The Scottish Parliament is responsible for the matter of education. MSPs can discuss and make changes to the education system in Scotland. For example, the Scottish Parliament Education and Skills committee is currently investigating how successful Curriculum for Excellence has been. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. devolved matters such as agriculture, forestry and fisheries
2. environment
3. health and social services
4. housing
5. law and order
6. local government
7. sport and the arts
8. tourism and economic development
9. aspects of transport.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. Pressure groups try to influence the Scottish Government by having a demonstration, lobbying, petitions and getting media attention. [2 marks awarded in total—list type answer]
2. Trades Unions can try to influence the Government by going on strike, for example NHS doctors have threatened industrial action. [2 marks for a single point plus relevant example]
3. Newspapers can try to influence the Government by printing stories that are very critical of the Government. Bad publicity can make the Government unpopular, for example when the Daily Record started a campaign against organised crime hoping that the Scottish Government and courts would clamp down. [3 marks for a developed point with exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following: Pressure Groups

1. Demonstrations/protest, eg recent protests by the SDL and UAF outside the Scottish Parliament.
2. Petitions—including e-petitions and submissions to the petitions committee.
3. Actions to attract media attention, eg campaign for safer cycle routes using celebrities such as Chris Hoy in a mass cycle ride through Edinburgh.
4. Lobbying—contacting elected members of the parliament in order to try to gain their support. This can be done by pressure groups themselves or they may employ advisors, ie professional lobbyists.
5. Direct action—disruptive and often illegal forms of protest, eg the Faslane peace camp.

Trades Unions

1. Industrial action such as strikes, work to rule, overtime bans. This may be especially effective in the public sector, eg proposed action by NHS doctors.
2. Demonstrations/protest—recent demonstrations organised by teaching unions.
3. Actions to attract media attention, eg prison officers protesting outside their prisons.

The Media

1. Newspapers supporting/opposing campaigns by pressure groups, eg recent highlighting of new medical tests introduced for disability benefits.
2. Newspapers supporting/opposing a particular political party during election campaigns, eg the changing support of the Sun newspaper in recent elections.
3. Newspapers highlighting what they see as Government incompetence/achievements, eg coverage of debate over continuation of universal benefits.
4. Broadcast media strictly controlled by legislation so cannot attempt to influence the Government.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Individuals in Scotland have the right to protest. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Individuals in Scotland have the right to protest. They can hold demonstrations against laws they disagree with. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Individuals in Scotland have the right to protest. They can hold demonstrations against laws they disagree with. For example, people who disagreed with the Offensive Behaviour at Football Act, such as the pressure group Fans Against Criminalisation, held marches and demonstrations in Glasgow as part of their protests against this law. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. the right to a fair trial
2. the right to privacy
3. the right to vote
4. the right to education and healthcare
5. the right to join a pressure group
6. the right to join a political party
7. the right to protest
8. the right to lobby a representative
9. freedom of expression
10. freedom of religion or conscience
11. freedom of assembly
12. freedom from torture, inhuman or degrading treatment and slavery.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. An advantage of the additional member system is that it is a fairly proportional system. [1 mark]
2. An advantage of AMS is that it provides better representation as it gives voters a choice of MSP to consult. [2 marks—developed point]
3. An advantage of AMS is that it provides better representation as it gives voters a choice of MSP to consult. In any constituency you have a constituency and list MSPs. [3 marks—well developed point]
4. An advantage of AMS is that it is a system where voters have two votes. One vote uses the first past the post system so you have a directly elected MSP for the constituency and the other vote uses the list system to elect regional MSPs. This means AMS provides the advantages of both systems. [4 marks—developed points with some detail and analysis]

Credit reference to aspects of the following: Advantages

1. More proportional—Scottish elections have had a closer correlation between votes and seats.
2. Retains elements of FPTP so some direct representation—voters in every constituency know who to contact.
3. Greater choice—each voter can contact a number of MSPs due to the regional list element.
4. Smaller parties can be successful, eg Greens in Scottish Parliament.

Disadvantages

1. Too many representatives—129 MSPs is seen by many as a “top heavy” system.
2. Representatives to parliament elected under two different systems thus creating almost a “two tier” system of MSPs.
3. System more complex than FPTP so may more difficult for many voters to understand.
4. Retention of FPTP element still allows some parties to dominate disproportionately, eg SNP dominating this ballot.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Political parties use the media during election campaigns in Scotland to gain support. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Political parties use the media during election campaigns in Scotland to gain support. They hope this will give them a better chance of winning the election. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Political parties use the media during election campaigns in Scotland to gain support. They hope this will give them a better chance of winning the election. For example, during an election campaign, Scottish Labour may use social media such as YouTube to promote their policies by posting short video clips. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Political parties use the media during election campaigns in Scotland to gain support. They hope this will give them a better chance of winning the election. For example, during an election campaign, Scottish Labour may use social media such as YouTube to promote their policies by posting short video clips. This method appeared to be successful for the Labour Party during the 2017 general election as many younger voters who voted Labour said they were influenced by social media. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. engage with younger voters via social media platforms
2. use of 'attack' advertising to discredit opposition
3. create publicity for the campaign message via soundbites
4. Party Election Broadcasts (PEBs) promote manifesto pledges to voters
5. printed press allegiance supports campaign at expense of other parties
6. mobilise grassroot supporters via social media to organise local campaigns
7. deliver campaign messages to those unable to be reached through traditional methods, such as canvassing, to attempt to increase turnout.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. MSPs can represent their constituents in the Scottish Parliament by asking a question at First Minister's Question Time. (1 mark - accurate but undeveloped point)
2. MSPs can represent their constituents in the Scottish Parliament by asking a question at First Minister's Question Time. FMQT takes place every Thursday at midday. (2 marks - accurate point with development)
3. MSPs can represent their constituents in the Scottish Parliament by asking a question at First Minister's Question Time. FMQT takes place every Thursday at midday. Recently, Conservative MSP Liz Smith asked the First Minister whether the Scottish Government will review the school inspection process. (3 marks - accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. taking part in a debate in the Scottish Parliament
2. proposing a Members' Bill in the Parliament
3. voting on new or changes to existing laws
4. working/membership of a committee
5. asking a question at General Question Time.

PRESSURE GROUPS

1. One method used by pressure groups to gain influence in a democracy is to organise a petition. (1 mark - accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One method used by pressure groups to gain influence in a democracy is to organise a petition. Recently many petitions have been submitted to the Scottish Parliament Petitions Committee. (2 marks - accurate point with development)
3. One method used by pressure groups to gain influence in a democracy is to organise a petition. Recently many petitions have been submitted to the Scottish Parliament Petitions Committee. For example, Fans Against Criminalisation submitted a petition with nearly 10,000 signatures calling for the repeal of the Offensive Behaviour Act. (3 marks – accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Credit reference to aspects of the following:
5. organise a protest/demonstration
6. lobby a representative such as an MP, MSP or Councillor
7. leaflet/poster campaigns
8. take 'direct action'
9. organise a social media campaign.

TRADE UNIONS

1. One method used by trade unions to gain influence in a democracy is to organise a demonstration. (1 mark - accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One method used by trade unions to gain influence in a democracy is to organise a demonstration. Trade unions often organise demonstrations to draw the government's attention to their members' concerns. (2 marks – accurate point with development)
3. One method used by trade unions to gain influence in a democracy is to organise a demonstration. Trade unions often organise demonstrations to draw the government's attention to their members' concerns. For example, the UNITE union organised a national demonstration in March 2017 to highlight their concerns for the NHS using the slogan 'Our NHS, no cuts, no closures, no privatisation'. (3 marks – accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. lobbying a representative such as an MP, MSP or Councillor
5. leaflet/poster campaigns
6. taking industrial action eg work-to-rule/overtime ban/strike
7. organising a social media campaign
8. negotiations with employer.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. People choose not to vote because they don't identify with one of the main political parties. (1 mark - accurate but undeveloped point)
2. People choose not to vote because they don't identify with one of the main political parties. They view the party policies as being very similar eg in 2017 both Labour and Conservative pledged to build one million homes. (3 marks - accurate point with development and exemplification)
3. People choose not to vote because they don't identify with one of the main political parties. They view the party policies as being very similar eg in 2017 both Labour and Conservative pledged to build one million homes. This may have contributed to around one in three people choosing not to vote. (4 marks - accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. basic right not to vote
2. voter apathy
3. have not registered
4. safe seats
5. lack of trust in MSPs/political system
6. lack of role models
7. alternative outlets for participation eg pressure groups.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. The First Minister is very powerful because they are the leader of the largest party in the Scottish Parliament. (1 mark - accurate but undeveloped point)
2. The First Minister is very powerful because they are the leader of the largest party in the Scottish Parliament. In 2016, Nicola Sturgeon was returned as First Minister with 63 MSPs. (2 marks – accurate point with development)
3. The First Minister is very powerful because they are the leader of the largest party in the Scottish Parliament. In 2016, Nicola Sturgeon was returned as First Minister with 63 MSPs. This was more than any other party and allows the First Minister to implement government legislation eg the Budget. (4 marks – accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. power of appointment – hiring and firing ministers
2. Executive head
3. chairing the Cabinet and setting the Cabinet agenda
4. media attention
5. relationships with foreign leaders.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. People in Scotland have the right to vote in elections. (1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point)
2. People in Scotland have the right to vote in elections such as the Scottish Parliament elections. (2 marks – accurate with development)
3. People in Scotland have the right to vote in elections such as the Scottish Parliament elections. For example, the last Scottish Parliament election was held in May 2016 when the SNP won 63 seats, allowing them to form the government. (3 marks – accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Right to free speech
2. Right to protest
3. Right to join a group (pressure group, trade union or political party)
4. Right to lobby a representative
5. Right to organise/sign a petition.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Some political parties’ election campaigns are successful because of their use of social media. (1 mark accurate but undeveloped)
2. Some political parties’ election campaigns are successful because of their use of social media. This allows them to reach a large number of voters and tell them about their policies. (2 marks accurate with development)
3. Some political parties’ election campaigns are successful because of their use of social media. This allows them to reach a large number of voters and tell them about their policies. Most political parties now have Facebook and Twitter pages. For example, the SNP has over 150,000 followers on Twitter. (4 marks accurate with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Party membership
2. Party funding
3. Use of other media, eg television, radio
4. Support of the printed press
5. Party image
6. Party leader
7. Constituency party activists.
8. Credit reference to aspects of unsuccessful political parties’ election campaigns, where appropriate.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Political parties can campaign during a Scottish Parliament election by canvassing. [1 mark]
2. Political parties can campaign during a Scottish Parliament election by canvassing. Canvassing gives parties the opportunity to go door to door to speak with the public in an attempt to increase voter awareness of the party. [2 marks—developed point]
3. Political parties can campaign during a Scottish Parliament election by canvassing. Canvassing gives parties the opportunity to go door to door to speak with the public in an attempt to increase voter awareness of the party. This may secure more votes for the party as the canvassers will outline and explain the party policies to be implemented once elected. [3 marks—developed point with detail and analysis]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Use of the media – newspapers, PEBs, TV Debates, Social Media
2. Leafleting
3. Posters
4. Holding a public meeting/rally
5. Publishing a manifesto
6. Use of celebrities to gain media attention and support from voters

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. The Additional Member System is a more proportional system. [1 mark]
2. The Additional Member System is a more proportional system because the percentage of votes relates to the percentage of seats won by a party. [2 marks—developed point]
3. The Additional Member System is a broadly proportional system because the percentage of votes relates to the percentage of seats won by a party for example, in the 2011 election the Conservatives won about 12% of the vote and 12% of the seats. [3 marks — developed point with exemplification]
4. The Additional Member System is a broadly proportional system because the percentage of votes relates to the percentage of seats won by a party for example, in the 2011 election the Conservatives won about 12% of the vote and 12% of the seats. This often leads to coalition governments which mean parties work together providing better representation for voters. [4 marks—developed point with exemplification and analysis]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Retains elements of FPTP so some direct representation—voters in every constituency know who to contact.
2. Greater choice - each voter can contact a number of MSPs due to the regional list element.
3. Greater choice – two votes at the ballot box.
4. Smaller parties can be successful, eg Greens in Scottish Parliament.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Councils provide services such as education. [1 mark - accurate but undeveloped point]
2. Councils provide services such as education. They provide education from 3-18 in schools. [2 marks - accurate with development]
3. Dundee City is one of Scotland's 32 local councils. Education is a key service. Nurseries, primary and secondary schools are all funded by the Council. They employ the teachers and people such as janitors to provide the service. [3 marks - accurate point with development and detailed exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Some pupils may refer to the types of services and should be credited for this.
2. Mandatory services - such as schooling for 5 - 16 year olds, social work services.
3. Discretionary services – swimming pools, mobile libraries.
4. Permissive powers such as economic development, recreation services; and, Regulatory powers - Local Authorities provide regulatory services such as trading standards and environmental health and issue licences for taxis and public houses.
5. Councils deliver a wide range of valuable services to their local area. The main services they provide, in addition to their regulatory and licensing functions, are:
6. Education
7. Social Work
8. Roads and transport
9. Economic Development
10. Housing and the Built Environment
11. The Environment
12. Libraries
13. Waste management
14. Arts, Culture and Sport
15. Councils also work with external agencies such as the police and fire service to provide community safety.
16. Any other valid point that meets the criteria described in the general marking instructions for this kind of question (see column to left).

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. People may choose to use the media to influence people. [1 mark - accurate but undeveloped point]
2. People may join a trade union to protect their rights at work eg teachers join the EIS. [2 marks - accurate with development]
3. People may join a trade union to protect their rights at work eg teachers join the EIS. They might do this because they feel that they are not getting paid enough money and that the union will take action for them eg talking to their employers. [3 marks - accurate point with development and exemplification]
4. People may choose to join a pressure group such as Greenpeace because they are worried about the environment and they feel they can't make any difference on their own. Joining a pressure group means lots of people campaign together so they have more of an impact eg Greenpeace have 11,000 Scottish members, this gives them strength in numbers and increases their collective influence on the government. This makes them difficult to ignore. [4 marks - relevant accurate point with development, analysis and exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Pressure Groups
2. Believe strongly about an issue such as human rights, the environment.
3. Collective action more effective than individual.
4. Media pay more attention to organised pressure groups.
5. Pressure groups have experience of campaigning etc.
6. Seen as the best way to influence government in between elections.
7. Trade Unions
8. Protect rights at work eg health and safety, pay, holidays, pensions.
9. TU have experience negotiating with management.
10. TU have legal teams you can use.
11. The Media
12. Use them to get wider attention for an issue you care about eg newspapers are widely read.
13. Legal way to get attention for your cause.
14. Local and national appeal.
15. Use of different media types eg Facebook campaigns.
16. Any other relevant factual key point of knowledge that meets the criteria described in the general marking instructions for this kind of question (see column to left).

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. The Scottish Parliament has control over devolved powers in Scotland like health, education and housing. [2 marks for a list answer which lacks any detail]
2. The Scottish Parliament has a range of devolved powers. One of the main ones is education. Scottish pupils sit Nationals and Highers whereas English students sit GCSEs. [2 marks single point with an example]
3. Holyrood has control over many devolved areas such as health care. The Scottish government has been able to create different laws in Scotland eg the Smoking Ban in 2006 and the plan to have a minimum price for alcohol. [3 marks developed point with exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. The power to make law
2. Agriculture, forestry and fishing
3. Education & training
4. Health & social services
5. Housing
6. Law & order

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. People may feel it is their right to vote and that they should therefore use it. [1 mark for a limited answer which lacks any detail.]
2. Many people are members of political parties such as the Scottish National Party and so vote for their candidate. [2 marks for a single point with an example]
3. Many people in Scotland feel that it is not only a right but also a responsibility that they should vote to uphold democracy. If many thousands of Scots decide not to vote then the result of an election may not be representative. In 2011 almost 40% didn't vote, if they had, the SNP may not have won. [3 marks for a developed point with exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Basic right in a democracy
2. Right denied to citizens elsewhere in the world
3. Desire to see own party succeed
4. Wish to ensure another party is not elected.
5. Right denied to women until early last century
6. Feel electoral system reflects their views