1 x assignment (end of semester 1) comprising a multiple choice test and a written assignment of 1500 words maximum (50%). The assignment will assess learning outcomes 1 - 5.

1 x 2 hour unseen examination (end of Semester 2) (50%).
The examination will assess learning outcomes 1 - 3 and 5.

Students must achieve an overall mark of 40% averaged over both assessment elements and not less that 35% in each element.

Whole group sessions - these sessions will seek to establish a framework within which selected theories and rules of criminal liability can be more effectively understood and developed; will verify and consolidate knowledge and understanding previously developed; will engage in more detailed exposition of selected theories and rules; and will develop approaches to problem-answering skills (2 hours per week x 22 weeks = 44 hours).

Small group sessions - working both independently and collaboratively, students will prepare selected topics for discussion as notified in materials accompanying whole group sessions. These sessions will encourage participation in a variety of ways, for example, as part of the general group, as an individual presenting a paper and as part of teams of varying sizes. The sessions will develop problem-answering skills and encourage limited critical evaluation in selected areas. (5 hours per Semester = 10 hours).

Directed study and independent learning - this will consist of study to consolidate and develop understanding of aspects of doctrine and theory introduced in whole group sessions, study and preparation for participation in discussion in small group sessions, simple directed research, study and preparation for the coursework assignment, and preparation for the examination. (186 hours)

Total learning time = 240 hours

Skills - as indicated above, knowledge, intellectual skills, communication skills and problem solving skills are promoted and developed by the combination of activities involved in pursuit of the learning strategies. Additionally, development of research skills is assisted by demonstrations on the use of IT resources (such as Westlaw, Government and Law Commission sites) and is encouraged by the inclusion of simple research topics in the preparation for some small group sessions.

Access to appropriate texts, legislation and case law.
Module Study Guide.
Preparatory lecture materials.
Computing facilites will be needed to access material available on the web and specialist on-line databases.
Specialist software: IOLIS, WESTLAW, Lotus Learning Space.

Padfield N., Criminal Law, 2nd ed., London: Butterworths, 2000.
Allen M., Textbook on Criminal Law, 6th ed., London: Blackstone Press, 2001.
Molan M. & Lanser D., Bloy and Parry's Principles of Criminal Law, 4th ed., London: Cavendish Publihing, 2000.

1. Knowledge and understanding of doctrine and aspects of theory in criminal law.
2. Ability to explain and apply rules and principles of criminal law to suggest reasoned solutions to problems.
3. Ability to engage in limited critical evaluation of selected aspects of criminal law, doctrine and theory, including selected proposals for reform.
4. Ability to engage in simple directed research, using appropriate strategies.
5. Ability to communicate effectively in written form.

The module deals with doctrine in criminal liability and introduces aspects of theory. Selected areas, including contemporary proposals for reform, are subjected to a limited evaluative and critical approach.

- underlying theories and principles
- general elements of criminal liability
- general defences
- modes of participation in crime
- inchoate offences
- homicide and non-fatal offences against the person
- theft and related property offences
- ECHR and the Human Rights Act 1998

A COURSEWORK -ESSAY weighted at 40%. A EXAMINATION - UNSEEN IN EXAMINATION CONDITIONS length HOUR(S) weighted at 50%. A PRESENTATION - SEMINAR weighted at 10%.