Critically Evaluating Learning & the Impact of the Action (Edexcel GCSE Citizenship Studies): Revision Note

You should begin by looking back at what you planned to do and what actually happened

• Examiners want you to compare your original goals with the final outcome

Be honest and specific when reviewing the action

• It is completely acceptable if parts of the action did not go as planned

You should explain why the action was successful or unsuccessful

• For example, limited time, low engagement, strong support from staff, or effective planning

Clearly evaluate the method you chose

• Explain whether campaigning, raising awareness or providing a service was the right approach for the issue

You must also reflect on your own role within the action

• Explain what you did well, what challenges you faced, and how you responded

Examiners reward students who recognise mistakes or weaknesses and explain what they would change next time

• This shows maturity, reflection and strong citizenship skills

Impact refers to the difference your action made, even if it was small

You should explain the impact on others, such as individuals, the school, or the wider community

• For example, increased awareness, changes in attitudes, or improved access to support

Use evidence to support claims about impact

• This could include feedback, attendance figures, survey results or responses from decision-makers

It is important to recognise that impact may be partial or short-term

• Examiners do not expect major change, but they do expect realistic evaluation

You should also explain the impact on you and your team

• For example, improved confidence, teamwork skills, or understanding of democracy and citizenship

Strong answers link impact back to citizenship concepts, such as rights, participation, responsibility or power

Finish by explaining what your group learned about taking citizenship action

• This shows you understand how active citizenship works in real life, not just in theory