Stage 1 Legal Studies
Length of Course
Level
Learning Area
Core or Specialist
Pre-requisites
Subject Description
Stage 1 Legal Studies focuses on the use of laws and legal systems to establish order and resolve conflicts in society. Through an inquiry-based process, students develop their understanding of the concepts of rights, fairness and justice, power, and change. These concepts are examined in the context of law-making, law enforcement, and dispute resolution, which are be applied to a range of contemporary Australian issues. This subject is built around inquiry and asking ‘big questions’. Big questions are typically open ended, stimulate deep and conceptual thinking, and involve the consideration of a range of perspectives. Big questions encourage debate and active learning. In providing a response to the questions, students evaluate, analyse and apply appropriate legal principles, processes, evidence, and cases.
In Stage 1 Legal Studies, students will also develop an appreciation and awareness of their role as a citizen in the Australian legal system, the skills to communicate their ideas, and the confidence to make informed and effective decisions regarding legal issues.
The law affects every aspect of society including property rights, relationships and family, transport, sports, as well as crime. Because of this, studying Legal Studies builds critical thinking, research, and communication skills needed for informed citizenship and contemporary life. The subject also prepares students who are considering a future in law, business, government, politics by providing practical insights into how law-making, legal interpretation, and the legal process works.
By the end of this course, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the following topics:
- The Purpose and Role of the Law
- Australia’s Legal System
- Contemporary Legal Issues
Learning Outcomes:
The students will demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and understanding through their learning in Stage 1 Legal Studies:
- Inquiry skills through questioning, discussion, and research of the law, and legal issues
- Communication of legal principles, processes, and issues
- Analysing and applying legal principles and processes
- Evaluating legal arguments to reach conclusions and, where appropriate, make recommendations
- Researching, selecting, and acknowledging relevant sources
- Collaborating effectively with others to problem solve and build on the work of others.
- Assessment Type 1: Analytical Response
- Assessment Type 2: Inquiry
- Assessment Type 3: Presentation
Potential for Stage 2 Legal Studies.
Pathways for Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS)
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