Core ideologies Study Guide

Week 1 – Foundations

• Day 1–2: Read introductory chapters on liberalism (Locke, Mill). Take notes on key concepts.
• Day 3–4: Study conservatism (Hobbes, Burke). Highlight contrasts with liberalism.
• Day 5–6: Explore socialism (Marx, Engels). Map out class analysis.
• Day 7: Review and create a concept map linking all three ideologies.

Week 2 – Thinkers & Debates

• Day 8–9: Deep dive into Rawls, Green, Wollstonecraft, Friedan. Write a short paragraph summarising each thinker’s contribution.
• Day 10–11: Examine Oakeshott, Rand, Nozick. Compare their views on the state.
• Day 12–13: Analyse Luxemburg, Webb, Crosland, Giddens. Note their positions on revolution vs. reform.
• Day 14: Practice linking thinkers to broader ideological debates.

Week 3 – Comparative Analysis

• Day 15–16: Write a comparative essay on the role of the state across the three ideologies.
• Day 17–18: Debate the concept of freedom: negative vs. positive, individual vs. collective.
• Day 19–20: Evaluate the feasibility of a Third Way model.
• Day 21: Review all notes and create flashcards for key terms.

Week 4 – Exam Preparation

• Day 22–23: Take a timed practice paper covering all sections.
• Day 24–25: Analyse the mark scheme and identify common pitfalls.
• Day 26–27: Focus on essay structure: introduction, argument, evidence, conclusion.
• Day 28: Final review and mental rehearsal.

Study Tips

• Active Recall – test yourself on key terms and thinkers.
• Peer Discussion – explain concepts to classmates to reinforce understanding.
• Timed Writing – practice writing full essays within 30 minutes.
• Marking Criteria – remember that depth of analysis and clarity of argument are rewarded.