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      How is devolution impacting the UK's democracy?

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain what devolution is and the impact it is having on the UK’s democracy.

      Key learning points

      1. Devolution is the transfer of powers from the UK to regional government.
      2. Devolution invovles transferred powers for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
      3. Devolution impacts democracy by giving regions more control over local issues.
      4. Devolution can impact the unity and identity of the UK.

      Keywords

      • Devolution - the transfer of political powers from a central government or Parliament to a national, regional or local government or Parliament

      • Regional - relating to a particular area, or part of an area, of a state or country

      Common misconception

      Devolution means the regional governments are independent.

      Devolution allows more powers, but the countries still remain part of the UK.

      Teacher tip

      To help pupils understand, use a case study involving two regions they are familiar with. Comparing how devolution works in each area, pupils can observe the practical differences and explore how regional governments make decisions based on local needs making the concept more relatable and engaging.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Which of these are key features of a democracy?

      one party system
      Correct answer: protection of human rights
      Correct answer: rule of law

      Q2.
      of powers is when power is shared between different branches.

      Correct Answer: Separation

      Q3.
      What is a multi-party system?

      a system where two political parties share power equally
      a system where only one political party is allowed to exist
      Correct answer: a system where there is more than one political party to choose from
      a system where no political parties are allowed

      Q4.
      What is the UK Parliament?

      a group of judges who make legal decisions
      a group of local councils working together
      Correct answer: the body that makes and passes laws in the UK
      the body that enforces laws in the UK

      Q5.
      The UK Parliament is part of the branch of power.

      Correct Answer: legislative

      Q6.
      How might a free press support a democracy?

      Correct answer: allows the open sharing of ideas
      Correct answer: allows communication with government representatives
      allows the press more powers to make decisions

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Match the correct term with its definition.

      Correct Answer:devolution,the transfer of powers from central government to smaller governments

      the transfer of powers from central government to smaller governments

      Correct Answer:devolved powers,specific powers that have been transferred such as transport

      specific powers that have been transferred such as transport

      Correct Answer:reserved powers,powers that remain with the central government, such as defence

      powers that remain with the central government, such as defence

      Q2.
      Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have gained powers to make decisions on matters like education and health.

      Correct Answer: devolved

      Q3.
      Which of the following is not a direct impact of devolution?

      greater local control over services
      Correct answer: increased funding from central government
      more power for regional governments
      creation of policies that suit local needs

      Q4.
      Which of these are advantages of devolution for UK democracy?

      It reduces the need for local elections.
      It eliminates the need for central government involvement.
      Correct answer: It allows regional governments to make decisions that suit local needs.

      Q5.
      Which of these are disadvantages of devolution for UK democracy?

      Correct answer: It can lead to unequal policies between regions.
      It increases central government control.
      Correct answer: It can lead to confusion for citizens with different policies between regions.

      Q6.
      Which of the following is true about devolution in the UK?

      full independence for each UK nation
      shared rule by the UN and local leaders
      Correct answer: nations have more local powers but are still part of the UK
      local councils replacing Parliament

      To help you plan your 11 citizenship lesson on: How is devolution impacting the UK's democracy?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...