Module Descriptors
THE COMMON LAW TRADITION A
LAWS70968
Key Facts
Faculty of Business, Education and Law
Level 7
15 credits
Contact
Leader: Dewi Williams
Email: D.Williams@staffs.ac.uk
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 15
Independent Study Hours: 135
Total Learning Hours: 150
Assessment
- ASSIGNMENT weighted at 100%
Module Details
Module Additional Assessment Details
One piece of formative assessment consisting of a written explanation of the English or any other court system.
One summative assessment of 5,000 words counting for 100% (learning outcomes 1- 3)
One summative assessment of 5,000 words counting for 100% (learning outcomes 1- 3)
Module Indicative Content
Students are required to show an informed and at the same time critical understanding of the UK and other common law systems and are required to show such, where appropriate, by drawing meaningful comparisons between those and their own legal system.
The module will cover the following areas -
1. The English Court Structure.
An understanding of the structure of the common law court structure in England, involving courts of first instance and the courts of appeal.
2. Case Law and Statute.
A critical analysis of the major sources of law within the English Legal system.
3. UK Constitution and Human Rights.
An examination of the separation of powers, the position of judges within the constitution. The European Union and the development of Human Rights law.
The module will cover the following areas -
1. The English Court Structure.
An understanding of the structure of the common law court structure in England, involving courts of first instance and the courts of appeal.
2. Case Law and Statute.
A critical analysis of the major sources of law within the English Legal system.
3. UK Constitution and Human Rights.
An examination of the separation of powers, the position of judges within the constitution. The European Union and the development of Human Rights law.
Module Resources
Well stocked library
Computer facilities with internet access
Computer facilities with internet access
Module Texts
Slapper, G. & Kelly, D. (2009). The English Legal System, 9th ed. Routledge Cavendish or any other English Legal System textbook
Module Learning Strategies
This module will be strongly student centred. It will be delivered through a series of 5 x 2 hour seminars supported by student research and personal study and there will be an additional five hours of student guidance, supervision and support. Students will follow a set pattern contained in the module handbook. A formative assessment will be used to encourage research on the subject area.