Is Britain a Liberal Democracy?

The Year 12 Politics group (and the fruit machine) have been debating today whether Britain can be described as a truly Liberal Democracy. What are your opinions? Please add them below, plus any links of interest.

The most ambitious reform since 1832?

What do you think - is this the greatest political reform since 1832? Nick Clegg certainly seems to think so. His suggestions in a speech today are important for the constitutional reform topic for Politics students and obviously ideal for Historians wanting a quick overview of some of the key statistics and reforms involved in 1832. A valid comparison or a huge exaggeration?

Revision Materials

It will soon be time for Years 11, 12 and 13 to go on study leave, and hopefully Nonsuch HP can be of help for the final preparations for the exams. The History Dept and Politics Dept blogs contain links to lists of questions and mark schemes. Also make the most of Fronter where you can find material specific to your classes.

The Exam Board websites are quite helpful. Here are some links to try.

AQA GCSE History
2009 Paper 1 Question Paper and Mark Scheme
2009 Paper 2 Question Paper and Mark Scheme

AQA AS History
Unit 1B (Henry) Specimen Question Paper and Mark Scheme
Unit 2S (Liberal Democracies) Question Paper and Mark Scheme

AQA A2 History
Unit 3B (Elizabeth) Specimen Question Paper and Mark Scheme

Edexcel A-Level Politics Resources Area (This is not as helpful a website as many downloads are "secure" but it can give you a general idea of what to expect.) The AS Unit 1 question paper and markscheme are available.

If you would like other materials to be added or need further guidance on what to look for on these websites please leave a comment below and we will see what can be done.

Professor Eric Evans

Professor Eric Evans of Lancaster University is visiting Nonsuch tomorrow (Tuesday 23 February) at lunchtime in the Library from 1.15-2.15pm.
His talk is to discuss the question 'What's so great about the Great Reform Act?' and is essential for those who are studying Liberal Democracies currently or who studied it last year. Professor Evans is an expert on this period in Britain, having written numerous books and pamphlets. He is also interested in the more recent periods of history, specifically Thatcherism. Here is his site at Lancaster University.