ESSENTIAL TEXT: Elliott, C. And Quinn, F Criminal Law .... (9th edition Pearson 2012)
Martin, J and Storey, T. Unlocking Criminal Law (2010 3rd Edition Hodder)

The learning strategy for this module requires students to commit 150 learning hours (including assessment). This will include 45 hours of class support and 105 hours of independent and self-directed study.

Class sessions will be delivered in 30 x 1.5 hour study periods to cover the key aspects of module content through a range of varied teaching and learning strategies. Class sessions will provide opportunities for formative assessment, in addition to preparation for summative assessment.

A range of learning strategies will be employed in timetabled sessions to provide opportunities to disseminate basic knowledge and facilitate understanding. Students will work in groups and pairs solving problems, applying relevant rules, reaching sustainable conclusions, and communicating their solutions to the class. Class sessions will include participation in role-play activities, for example, advising a client as to their criminal liability and suggesting possible defences. Students will participate in a range of research exercises to find information, for example on sentencing guidelines, and will engage in analysis of their findings, working individually and in groups. Visits to both the Magistrates¿ and the Crown Court form an important component of the module, providing a practical context within which to ground the students' knowledge of criminal law and procedure.

Students are expected to actively engage with the Moodle pages relating to this module. This will include guidance on strategies for independent learning, including direction towards appropriate reading, and will place a particular focus on formative exercises to reinforce learning and consolidate understanding, such as interactive quizzes. Students will be able to access additional support from the module leader, through email, telephone contact and individual tutorials.

This module will explore the aims of the criminal law and general elements of liability, before introducing coverage of particular criminal offences and defences. The module will place a particular focus on the non-fatal offences against the person and the property offences of theft, burglary and robbery. General defences, such as self-defence and intoxication, will be introduced and their effect on criminal liability discussed. The module will challenge students to identify offences and apply the relevant legal rules to practical scenarios and case studies, in order to reach accurate and sustainable conclusions as to criminal liability.

Students will also investigate the relevant procedure followed from charge or summons through to trial, distinguishing between different categories of offence. Practical issues such as bail, and the factors influencing the decision as to whether to grant bail, will be explored. The module will include enquiry into the different aims of sentencing, including evaluation of potential conflict between these aims.
Students will also investigate the different sentencing options available to the courts, analysing the factors that will be taken into account in the exercise of sentencing.

www.bailii.org

www.cps.gov.uk

www.sentencingcouncil.judiciary.gov.uk

www.justice.gov.uk

www.hmcourts-service.gov.uk

Module Study Guide

Moodle resources

IT facilities

LexisNexis, Westlaw

First phase - Role-play exercise
Will assss Learning Outcomes: 1-4

Students will engage in a role-play exercise based on a short case study. Students will advise a defendant on his possible criminal liability, identifying relevant offences and reaching accurate and reliable conclusions. Students will interact with the defendant and will also be challenged to answer questions relevant to the scenario. Each role play will last for 10 minutes.

Second phase - Written Report (1,000 words)
Will assss Learning Outcomes: 1-4
Students will complete a written report based on the case study. Students must answer specific questions testing understanding of the criminal procedure that would be followed in relation to the incident. The case study will also involve application of the relevant rules on bail and identification of appropriate sentencing options.


FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Class discussion and debate will afford opportunities for both tutor feedback and peer feedback, to guide developing knowledge and understanding. Students will receive individual feedback from the module tutor on pieces of written homework, completed worksheets, research exercises and also on role-play exercises conducted in class. Individual tutorials provide a further opportunity for guidance and constructive feedback to support learners in achieving success to their full potential.