Example Knowledge and Understanding questions
Question
Describe in detail two ways in which MSPs can represent their constituents in the Scottish Parliament? Four marks
Answer
Statement: MSPS can represent their constituents in the Scottish Parliament by proposing a Members Bill that reflects the wishes of their constituents.
Advice: Notice the first part of the answer in bold is taken straight from the question.
Explanation: This is when MSPs put forward their own ideas for a bill that may become a law if parliament supports it.
Example: Recently James Kelly of Labour managed to pass the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Repeal) (Scotland) Bill which got rid of a law he claimed was unpopular with his constituents.
This type of answer would achieve three marks. A four mark answer on a six or eight mark question would require some further analysis too – see the example below:
Question
Explain in detail why the First Minister is very powerful. You should give a maximum of three reasons in your answer. Eight marks
Answer
Statement: The First Minister is very powerful because she gets to appoint the Cabinet.
Explanation: This means she chooses who does the most important jobs in Government like Finance Secretary or Education Secretary.
Example: Nicola Sturgeon appointed John Swinney to be her Deputy First Minister and Education Secretary. He reports to her the work he does.
Analysis: This power allows the First Minister to put in place the best people for the job but also people that will support her.
This answer should gain four marks. If the question is asking for three reasons then three paragraphs like above would be enough for 12 marks but would also give you 10 marks allowing for mistakes or inaccuracies.