How would I structure and answer a 30 marks essay question, for example, 'Evaluate the extent to which the increased use of referendums would improve democracy in the UK'

Firstly, it is important to have a clear and logical structure that can be applied to any 30 mark question on this course. The structure I would recommend should include an introduction, 3 points on either side of the argument (presented as a paragraph each) and a conclusion. This allows for a balanced argument followed by a clear evaluation in the conclusion, as required by the mark scheme for top marks.Using this structure I will now explain what should be included in each paragraph in order to create a clear, balanced and evaluative essay. The introduction should aim to define the main words in the question and introduce the main arguments that you will be discussing. For this question, the introduction should define the terms 'referendum' and 'democracy', then introduce the main arguments suggesting why referendums would and wouldn't improve democracy. I will not explain these in detail right now but some solid arguments to suggest referendums can improve democracy could include the arguments that it ensures the avoidance of an 'elective dictatorship', engages the public and educates on key constitutional issues and can settle long-standing disputes within political parties (e.g. divisions over EU membership in the Conservative party). Some arguments against this notion include the arguments that referendums can undermine parliamentary sovereignty, low turnout and bias campaigns can limit the outcome's legitimacy and referendums can be criticised as irresponsible governance. In these arguments it is essential to include relevant examples in order to illustrate your point, constantly reading the news and keeping up to date with current affairs is therefore an important element of revision and learning for this course. In the essay's conclusion you must weigh up the arguments you have made, highlighting your strongest arguments, and decide (with an explained justification) which side of the argument you are on.