Overview

This module introduces learners to practical legal study skills via a series of lectures and workshops which include, but are not limited to: effective note-taking, legal essay writing, legal problem solving, presenting an argument, mooting, effective time management, and revision and exam techniques. Students will be guided in the effective application of these skills to: 1) researching the law (using the law library, on-line sources, finding legislation, finding cases etc.); 2) reading the law (reading legislation, reading law reports, reading academic legal literature etc.); and 3) constructing, analysing, evaluating and defending written and oral legal arguments.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Threshold: D- to D+ (40-49%) An answer which, while predominantly correct in its presentation of material, contains a significant level of error and is therefore not entirely reliable.

-good -Good: B- to B+ (60-69%) High Standard: A comprehensive answer, containing all the material relevant to the question and no irrelevancy, all the material and references being accurate and correct, there being no inaccuracy or error, the whole presented in an argument which, while clear, logical and critical, leaves room for improvement in its construction and presentation. An answer which shows complete competence in the subject.

-excellent -Excellent: A- to A* (70+%) An outstanding answer, containing all the material relevant to the question and no irrelevancy, all the material and references being accurate and correct, there being no inaccuracy or error, the whole presented in a clear, logical, critical argument with little room for improvement. An answer which demonstrates a complete mastery of the subject.

-another level-C- to C+ (50-59%) An answer which, while always in the main accurate and correct, fails to distinguish between relevant and irrelevant material and is lacking in criticism. An answer which while reliable with regard to correctness is either not comprehensive or not entirely pertinent.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically evaluate your use of the legal skills involved in finding, analysing, navigating, and referencing both print and electronic sources of legal information.

• Demonstrate an understanding of courtroom etiquette, and present a fully reasoned, critical, oral legal argument via a moot court simulation.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the analytical skills necessary to effectively communicate legal information in writing via case notes, article critiques, skeleton arguments, and traditional academic essays.

• Evaluate the different structural tools available to lawyers in addressing problem based scenarios, whilst also considering methods for including rebuttal points and developing countering arguments.

• Evidence an advance understanding legal and transferable skills that are key to effective independent legal research .