Module overview
This module is designed to equip you with the specialist English legal language you will need to study law in
the Semester Two Understanding Law module (IFYP0008) and subsequently as an undergraduate in the
University of Southampton’s Law School.
You will also be introduced to basic framework of the English legal system. You will practise the key academic
study skills you will need using texts and extracts from legal textbooks, press, Internet articles and recorded
lectures about the law.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- a fundamental knowledge of key legal terminology
- understand and make notes on lectures about legal subjects
- understand and analyse academic legal texts
- an introductory knowledge of the English legal system
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- take part effectively in discussions and presentations about legal topics
- write effective essays on legal subjects.
Syllabus
We will examine certain key topics in order to have an overall understanding of the fundamentals of the legal
system in England and Wales. These may include the branches of law, the court system including the court
hierarchy, historical landmarks in the development of law, Lord Denning and 20th century English law,
judicial precedent, the origins of international law & its influence on English law, tort v crime, a brief overview
of contract law and laws relating to homicide.
There will be a particular emphasis on definitions of legal terms and acquiring a specialist legal vocabulary.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Although the twice weekly classes will involve some direct teaching there is an emphasis on student
participation and you will be expected to take part in a range of activities including discussions, group work
and presentations. Audio visual material including documentaries and dramas on legal themes will also be
used.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 22 |
| Completion of assessment task | 40 |
| Follow-up work | 22 |
| Revision | 30 |
| Seminar | 12 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
G Slapper and D Kelly (2014). The English Legal System. Abingdon: Routledge Legal.
J Walenn (2009). English For Law In Higher Education Studies. Reading: Garnett Publishing.
J Martin (2010). The English Legal System. Abingdon: Hodder Education.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Presentation | 40% |
| Essay | 40% |
| Written summary | 20% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal