Law - AS/A2
Why choose Law?
This is a subject which is alive; it is all around us and is constantly changing. It is a challenging subject which will improve your communication and problem solving skills. It will help you decide if a legal career is for you.
What can I expect to learn?
It is unlikely that you will have studied Law before, but DO NOT WORRY! The AS course is designed as an introduction to Law and the Legal System and will therefore help to remove any feelings of uncertainty and confusion that you might experience when taking on a totally new subject. In the first module you will learn about who works in the law (barristers, solicitors, judges) and the role of ordinary (lay) people i.e. juries and magistrates. You will also develop knowledge of how laws are made and interpreted in the UK. In the second module you will learn how to progress civil and criminal cases through the courts looking at offences such as abh, gbh and wounding as well as the award of compensation and sentencing.
During the A2 course we will focus predominantly on Criminal Law studying Offences Against the Person (including Murder and Manslaughter), and Offences Against Property (including Theft, Robbery, Burglary, Fraud, and Blackmail). You will also have the chance to consider some philosophical issues such as, 'What is Justice?' and 'Should Morals influence Law?'
How will I learn?
Law is a subject which is dependant upon your involvement. Typical learning and teaching activities will include small group work, discussion, debate, mock trials, individual research, case law analysis, problem solving and obviously exam technique! Learning will also take place outside of the classroom with opportunities to visit local courts and to participate in alaw conference.
How will I be assessed?
During the course you will be assessed both formally and informally. Formal internal assessments will include essays, problem questions, presentations, mock exams and extended research pieces. External assessment of Law is entirely exam based; there is no coursework element at all. In AS you will have two exams one in January, one in June. This is repeated in A2 also. You will have the opportunity to re-sit any modules and your best scores will go forward.
What subjects combine well with Law?
Law can be combined with any other subject. It could, therefore, be linked with subjects which develop similar skills, such as English, history, government and politics and sociology but could be matched equally well with subjects such as business studies, mathematics or one ofthe sciences.
Where does this lead? What can I do next?
Many students taking law proceed to study the subject in higher education but many also opt for business studies courses. Employers also value people with an understanding of law.
What background, skills and achievements do I need?
You will need a grade B in English as strong written and communication skils are essential.
"I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice."
Abraham Lincoln
