predicted 2025

• 1. (4 marks)

  Give two reasons why pressure groups are important in a democracy.

  ✅ Model Grade 9 Answer:

  1. Pressure groups raise awareness of issues that may be ignored by political parties, helping to make the political system more responsive.
  2. They allow citizens to influence government policy between elections, making democracy more participatory and inclusive.
• 2. (6 marks)

  Explain how the media can influence political decisions in the UK. Use examples.

  ✅ Model Grade 9 Answer:The media can shape public opinion through selective coverage or emphasis on certain issues. For example, newspapers like The Sun or The Daily Mail may push specific political agendas, which can pressure politicians to act in a certain way. The media also holds power to expose scandals (e.g. the expenses scandal), which forces political accountability. Social media campaigns can go viral, increasing public pressure on MPs to respond quickly to public concerns.
• 3. (8 marks)

  Explain how your citizenship action project promoted change in society. Refer to methods and impact.

  ✅ Model Grade 9 Answer:Our action focused on raising mental health awareness among students. We used primary research through surveys and held a poster campaign, assembly presentation, and handed out mental health resource cards. We collaborated with school staff to ensure our messages were accurate and accessible. Feedback showed improved student knowledge about support services, and the school committed to including mental health in tutor time, showing real impact. We also developed teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.
• 4. (12 marks)

  Assess how effective different campaigning methods are at achieving change. Refer to a campaign you have studied.

  ✅ Model Grade 9 Answer:Different campaigning methods have varying levels of effectiveness depending on the audience, message, and timing. For example, the Marcus Rashford free school meals campaign used social media, petitions, and direct lobbying. Social media was effective in building momentum quickly and reaching a wide audience, while lobbying MPs led to a government U-turn.

  Petitions show public support but may lack power alone. Peaceful protests gain media attention but can be ignored. A mix of online and offline methods, such as celebrity endorsement and media coverage, makes campaigns more effective by applying pressure from multiple angles.

  In conclusion, combining methods tailored to the issue and audience is the most effective strategy for change.
• “The media plays a more powerful role than Parliament in influencing society.” How far do you agree with this view?

  ✅ Model Grade 9 Answer (Shortened):The media plays a powerful role by shaping public opinion. It highlights key issues, influences elections (e.g. Brexit coverage), and exposes scandals like the phone hacking case, which led to the Leveson Inquiry.

  However, Parliament holds legal power. It creates laws, controls taxation, and debates national issues. For example, it passed the Equality Act and COVID-19 regulations, directly affecting people’s lives.

  While the media influences what the public thinks about, Parliament has the power to make real change. In conclusion, Parliament is more powerful in lawmaking, but the media plays a vital role in guiding public focus and pressuring decision-makers.