Access to appropriate texts, legislation and case law.
Study Guide.
Preparatory lecture materials.
Computing facilities will be needed to access material available on the web and specialist on-line databases.

Ashworth A.J. (2006) Principles of Criminal Law, 5th ed. Clarendon Press, Oxford
Simester A.P. and Sullivan G.R. (2007) Criminal Law: Theory and Doctrine. 3rd ed. Hart Publishing, Oxford

Or later editions, if available

Whole group sessions - these sessions will seek to establish an overview 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 consolidate and 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 critical evaluation. (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, research and preparation for participation in discussion in small group sessions, research and preparation for the examination. (146 hours)

Total learning time = 200 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 research topics in the preparation required for small group sessions.

An EXAM length 3 HOURS weighted at 100%.
Details:-
Teaching Block 2:
1 x 3 hour examination - 100%, assessing Learning Outcomes 1-4

The module deals with theory and doctrine in criminal liability. The approach adopted is evaluative and critical and extends to include contemporary proposals for reform.

Course content:
- underlying theory 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