Comparative analysis

Party systems and the rules behind them

Unit 4
5 points
About 20 minutes

You define a political concept, institution or policy, describe how it shows up in two of the course countries, and compare or explain how those two countries handle it. On the exam: Question 3 of 4 in the free-response section (1 hour 30 minutes for all four, 50% of your score; this question is 12.5%).

The question

Answer parts A, B, and C. In parts B and C, use the same two AP Comparative Government and Politics course countries (China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, United Kingdom). Recent elections to keep in mind (as of October 2026): Russia's State Duma election of 18–20 September 2026 used its mixed system, with 225 seats from party lists (5% threshold) and 225 single-member districts; United Russia won 349 of the 450 seats. Nigeria's next presidential and National Assembly elections are set for 16 January 2027.

Suggested time: 20 minutes

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Part (a)

1 point

Define a dominant-party system.

Your answer to part (a)

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Part (b)

2 points

Describe the party system in two different AP Comparative Government and Politics course countries.

Your answer to part (b)

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Part (c)

2 points

Explain how an election rule or political institution has shaped the party system in each of the two countries described in part B.

Your answer to part (c)

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