A student may ask me how to structure an answer to an exam question

An exemplar question is 'evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the FPTP system'. I would prompt them to answer the question by defining the key words and giving a brief introduction. In this case it is the First Past the Post system. The student must then ensure they have a balanced argument by including at least three strenghths and three weeknesses to which they analyse in detail. This is achieved by stating their point, giving an explanation for their point stated and backing it up with current and relevant examples. The student must then link back to the question to make sure their answer is consice and remains relevant. Lastly, the conclusion should sum up the points raised in the essay, and the student's opinion of whether the current voting system should be kept or changed, and why. If the student believes it should be changed, they should briefly discuss an alternative system.