This document is a comprehensive SQA Higher Politics practice examination paper (Paper 2). It includes candidate instructions and two questions worth 28 marks in 1 hour 15 minutes: an 8-mark comparison question based on Sources A and B, and a 20-mark “to what extent” question evaluating a viewpoint using Sources A–D.

Marking approach and skills focus: the marking guidance reflects SQA’s positive-marking principles and the expectations for Higher source-based responses. For the 8-mark question, marks reward three developed comparisons drawn only from the two sources, written in a clear comparative style and finished with an evidence-based overall conclusion. For the 20-mark question, marks reward the effective use of evidence from the sources to support and challenge the viewpoint, explicit evaluation of strengths and limitations of the information provided, and a balanced, justified judgement on “to what extent”.

Model answers and examiner comments: for each question, the document includes exemplar responses across performance levels, illustrating what clear structure, developed points, precise source use and supported conclusions look like under SQA marking. The examiner-style commentary highlights strengths and practical next steps (eg improving balance across sources, developing evaluation of limitations, and sharpening the overall judgement), making this an effective resource for independent revision, classroom practice, or standardisation.

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**If you find this resource useful, please take a look at my other teaching and assessment resources, all written and produced by a teacher/examiner with 30 years’ experience in the classroom. Resources are available for A Level Politics and Law, BTEC Business and GCSE English, as well as some PSHE materials.
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