Should we reform the voting system in the UK?
I can critically assess whether we should reform the voting system for general elections in the UK.
Should we reform the voting system in the UK?
I can critically assess whether we should reform the voting system for general elections in the UK.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- FPTP is a voting system where the candidate with the most votes wins, even without a majority.
- FPTP can lead to 'wasted vote' and may not reflect the views of all voters.
- The UK uses more proportional voting systems like AMS in Scotland and Wales for fairer representation.
- Some argue FPTP should be reformed to better reflect voters' true choices.
- Others defend FPTP for its simplicity, fearing reforms may complicate results.
Keywords
Election - the voting process to select a person for a public position
First Past The Post (FPTP) - the voting system used in the UK to elect members of some local councils and members of Parliament, whereby the candidate with the most votes in a constituency wins
Proportional systems - an electoral system where political parties get a number of seats in Parliament that matches the percentage of votes they receive in an election
Reform - make changes in something, (especially an institution or practice), in order to improve it
Common misconception
The First Past The Post (FPTP) system produces strong and stable governments.
There have been coalition and minority governments using FPTP. In addition, there can be instability as the party in power can be divided over certain issues or can have weak leadership / poor governance.
To help you plan your year 11 citizenship lesson on: Should we reform the voting system in the UK?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 citizenship lesson on: Should we reform the voting system in the UK?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
people have the power to elect their leaders and make decisions
leaders have complete control; people are expected to obey
the activity of choosing someone or something in an election
taking responsibility, making a positive difference
Exit quiz
6 Questions
voting process to select a person for a public position
the candidate with the most votes in a constituency wins
number of seats a party wins more evenly matches % of votes they get