ExpertHard8 marksExtended Response
AQA GCSE · Question 06.2 · Politics and Participation
'Local councils should build more social housing.'
Examine this view.
'Local councils should build more social housing.'
Examine this view.
How to approach this question
This is an 'examine' question, so you need to explore both sides of the argument.
1. Start with a paragraph arguing IN FAVOUR of the statement (e.g., affordability, security, meeting local needs).
2. Write a second paragraph arguing AGAINST the statement or raising problems with it (e.g., cost, lack of funding, efficiency of private sector).
3. Use specific examples or concepts where possible (e.g., housing crisis, government cuts).
4. Finish with a conclusion that weighs up both sides and offers a balanced judgement.
Full Answer
This question requires you to evaluate a statement about the role of local government. A good answer will be balanced and demonstrate an understanding of the complexities of the issue. You should discuss the social and economic arguments for council housing (tackling the housing crisis, providing security) and the practical and ideological arguments against it (financial constraints, arguments for market-led solutions). Showing awareness of the political context, such as government funding policies, will strengthen your answer. The conclusion should synthesise the arguments and offer a final, nuanced judgement rather than just restating your opinion.
Common mistakes
Only arguing one side of the case. The command word 'Examine' requires you to look at the issue from different perspectives. Another mistake is making assertions without any explanation or evidence.
Practice the full AQA GCSE Citizenship Studies Paper 1
23 questions · hints · full answers · grading
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