Module One

DEMOCRACY AND PARTICIPATION

Introduction

This module should be read in conjunction with the Programme of Study.

The Programme of Study lists the topics that are in the module and gives you the relevant page references for your textbook. This module aims to give you more direction as you work through the various topics. It will aim to highlight the most important items in the topic, as well as areas that need particular care. It will also point you towards the resources you should be using.

Remember to double-check the syllabus to make sure you cover all the items that you need to.

Module Overview

In this module, you will explore the emergence and development of the UK’s democratic system, including direct and representative democracy and the development of the franchise. You will learn about how people engage in the political process in the UK through pressure groups, and other forms of group politics such as lobbying. You will look at the development of the UK’s rights-based culture and consider how individual and collective rights may conflict.

You will become familiar with the work of a current movement to extend the franchise and with case studies of two different pressure groups, highlighting examples of how their methods and influence vary. You will also look at the work of two contemporary civil liberties pressure groups. All these case studies are part of the syllabus.

You should read the textbook with reference to page 2 of the A level Politics Glossary in the General Resources section, always ensuring that you understand, and can explain, the key terms.

Topics

Topic One (1.1): Current Systems of Representative Democracy and Direct Democracy in the UK

Topic Two (1.2): A Wider Franchise and Debates Over Suffrage

Topic Three (1.3): Pressure Groups and Other Influences

Topic Four (1.4): Rights in Context

Topic Five (1.5): Democracy and Participation – Consolidation