Edexcel GCSE Citizenship Studies key terms

A record of the steps, responsibilities, deadlines and resources needed to carry out an activity.

A person who takes responsibility, becomes involved in public concerns and acts to make a positive difference in their community.

A law passed by Parliament that has received Royal Assent.

Arguing publicly in support of an issue, cause or proposed change.

A population in which older people form an increasing proportion of the total.

Influencing which issues people consider important by giving those issues attention and prominence.

The minimum age at which a child can be held criminally responsible for an offence; it is 10 in England and Wales.

A feature of an offence or offender that increases its seriousness or supports a more severe sentence, such as relevant previous convictions.

A way of resolving a civil dispute without a court deciding the case, such as negotiation, mediation, conciliation or arbitration.

A proposed change to the wording of a bill.

A lack of interest or concern that can discourage involvement in politics.

The exercise of power according to a ruler's wishes rather than consistent laws and fair procedures.

A process in which the parties agree to let an independent person or body consider the evidence and make a decision that is usually legally binding.

A person who has applied for protection in another country and is awaiting a decision on their claim.

An MP who is neither a government minister nor an opposition frontbench spokesperson.

A legal professional specialising in advocacy and expert legal advice, often instructed through a solicitor.

A starting measurement, such as an audience’s knowledge or opinions before an action, against which later results can be compared.

A tendency to favour a particular position that can influence how information is selected, presented or interpreted.

A parliament with two chambers. The UK Parliament has the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

A proposed law being considered by Parliament.

A parliamentary committee that examines a proposed law in detail, including consideration of its wording and possible amendments.

The UK's departure from the European Union following the 2016 referendum.

The government's financial plan setting out expected revenue, spending and how any shortfall will be financed.

A shortfall arising when government spending exceeds its revenue over a particular period.

A tax charged on most non-domestic properties, such as shops and offices. Councils bill and collect business rates and retain a share to help fund local services.

The group of senior government ministers who discuss and agree major government decisions.

An organised effort to raise awareness, win support or achieve a particular change.