What are the strengths and weaknesses of the UK as a parliamentary democracy? (Unit of work)
Key stage 4 • Model curriculum
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the UK as a parliamentary democracy?
This six-lesson unit provides a dynamic exploration of democracy, combining theoretical concepts with practical activities. Students begin by defining democracy, analysing global case studies, and evaluating countries using democratic indices. They examine the UK Parliament’s role in representation and accountability, explore global systems for holding leaders accountable, and analyse press freedom’s impact on democracy. The unit also investigates the role of digital technology in enhancing democratic participation, balancing its benefits and risks. It culminates in a select committee simulation, where students tackle issues like digital privacy and governance, fostering critical thinking and civic engagement skills throughout.
National curriculum links
Politics, Parliament and government – parliamentary democracy and the key elements of the constitution of the United Kingdom, including the power of government, the role of citizens and Parliament in holding those in power to account, and the different roles of the executive, legislature and judiciary and a free press.
Citizenship skills
critical thinking, investigation, analysis, media literacy, problem solving, enquiry, debate
Citizenship concepts
Democracy, values, freedom, rule of law, rights and responsibilities, power, advocacy, bias, censorship, validity, reliability
Building progression
This scheme of work is part of ACTʼs model core curriculum for Citizenship in secondary schools, which has been designed to develop and deepen studentsʼ knowledge, skills and understanding throughout Key Stages 3 and 4. Other units linked to this Year 10 scheme of work include:
Year 7: Who runs the United Kingdom?
Year 8: How can political decisions impact the health of our society?
Year 9: Are elections the best way to decide who runs the country?
Year 11: How can we become future political leaders?
This unit of work forms part of our model core curriculum, which is exclusively available to School and College Members. Check out the full key stage 4 curriculum overview map here.
- Lesson 1: How can we tell if a country is democratic?
- Lesson 2: What is Parliament and what are its functions?
- Lesson 3: How can we hold our leaders to account?
- Lesson 4: What is a free press and why is it important for democracy?
- Lesson 5: Are democracies making the most of digital technology?
- Lesson 6: How can I take part in the democratic process? The role of the Select Committee