Semester One
Examination 1.5 hour (weighted at 40%) assessing learning outcomes 1-4

Semester Two
Examination (weighted at 60%) assessing learning outcomes 1-4

To pass this module, students must obtain a mark of at least 40%. Students must obtain at least 25% in both the coursework and examination elements of the module.

The aim of this module is to provide students with an understanding of Criminal Law and to enable them to develop problem-solving skills in relation to some of the main substantive areas of Criminal Law. In particular, the course will focus on the following areas:
-The terms mens rea and actus reus
Omissions
Causation
Murder
Voluntary and Involuntary manslaughter

-General defences
Insanity
Automatism
Intoxication
Duress
Self defence

-Homicide and non-fatal offences against the person including sexual offences and criminal damage

-Theft and related property offences

-ECHR and the Human Rights Act 1998

1. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the main principles of criminal law
Knowledge and Understanding

2. Demonstrate an ability to communicate knowledge and understanding of criminal law and its principles in writing
Communication
Knowledge and Understanding

3. Demonstrate an ability to analyse problem situations and apply law to provide appropriate solutions
Analysis
Application
Problem solving

4. Demonstrate an ability to conduct research
Enquiry
Reflection

The learning strategy for this module is based around students committing a total of 300 hours of activities towards achieving the learning outcomes. These will be split between 72 hours of direct contact with a tutor and 228 hours of directed, guided and self-study, together with preparation for and completion of the assessment tasks.

Contact will include a mixture of small and larger group activities, much of it based on the principles of practice and problem based learning. Learning will be organised into a series of sessions where students will be required to participate. Each session will be based around a problem or issue, and students will work towards a range of solutions by specifying objectives, identifying constraints, obtaining background information, applying related theory and knowledge based around the subject matter.
Students will be expected to be familiar with contemporary discussions in this area of law, and to bring a range of ideas to bear on the discussions. Thus, although there will be a framework of knowledge and understanding, students will be actively, rather than passively, engaged in the process of both learning about, and increasing understanding of, the subject matter.

The module will use a blend of teaching methods to enable different styles of learning to be facilitated. The differing methods will also be a platform for the development of essential skills such as intellectual skills, communication skills and problem solving, as well as research, teamwork, negotiation, presentation, referencing, argument, judgement and appropriate use of IT.

Large Group Sessions

In this module the basic principles of criminal law will be outlined in a series of whole group sessions.

Smaller Group Activities

The large group sessions will be supplemented by smaller group sessions to examine particular aspects of criminal law by means of group problem solving activities. A variety of teaching and learning methods will be used to encourage and develop both individual and collaborative learning. Students will be encouraged to present argument and carry out research using electronic resources.

DIRECTED STUDY AND INDEPENDENT LEARNING:
This will consist of preparation for the work to be undertaken in the workshops and also assessment. Students will be provided with guidance in their module study guide, lecture materials and via Blackboard. A significant amount of on-line guided support will be provided via Blackboard and this will include further reading, research exercises, and on-line collaboration to support workshop preparation. The independent learning activities encourage students to develop a critical understanding of the principles of contract and provide practice in preparation for assessments.

Access to appropriate texts, legislation and case law including electronic access
Module study guide. Lecture Outlines.

Loveless, J, Criminal Law, Text, Cases and Materials, (5th Edition, Oxford University Press, 2016).
Allen M., Textbook on Criminal Law, (13th Edition. Oxford University Press, 2015).

Card Cross Jones, Criminal Law, (21st Edition, Oxford University Press, 2014)