Law A Level
Board: OCR
Syllabus: H418
About the subject
A Level Law is a dynamic and living subject. It changes in response to events, developments in technology and serves to reflect contemporary values within society. Students will learn about society from a legal perspective and the interaction between law and morals, justice and society, including Rule of Law.
The specification has a broad focus. Students learn about law making, the English legal system, criminal law, tort law, human rights and jurisprudence of law.
The study of A-Level law helps students develop a range of transferable skills: analytical skills, attention to detail, logical thinking, research skills, independent learning, ability to debate controversial issues and take on board alternative points of view and to create a balanced argument.
A-Level Law is an extremely demanding subject. As such the course is best suited to students who take a very proactive approach to learning and are sufficiently resilient to manage the demands of the course. It is essential that students who study law have the ability to analyse the law from different perspectives rather than accepting it a face value
Learning styles
Learning takes place via a range of methods including note taking, group-based activities, discussions and student presentations. Emphasis is also placed on I.T as the Law department has its own well-resourced SharePoint side with links to useful websites. All assessments are written essays and in timed conditions. Law students will be expected to carry out a minimum of 6 hours independent study per week
Subject Combinations and Progression
Law has strong links to other subjects such as the humanities and social science subjects including Politics, History, Sociology and Criminology. The study of A level English Literature will support the analytical skills for essay writing as required in A level law.
A Level law is a well -respected subject due to its demands and is not only for students who want to enter the legal professions. Students can continue their legal studies opting for a university degree or a work-based apprenticeship. Both of these routes can lead to qualifications required to become a solicitor, barrister or legal executive. Other popular careers include the police, teaching, social work, business and accounting.
Subject Modules and Assessment
A Level Law is a two year linear course assessed by 100% written examinations consisting of a mixture of essay questions and scenario questions.
Unit 01 The legal system and criminal law (33.3% of A level) 2hr exam
Unit 02 Law making and the law of tort (33.3% of A level) 2hr exam
Unit 03 The nature of law and human rights (33.3% of A level) 2 hr exam
Minimum Subject Entry
Both Grade 5 or above in GCSE English language and Grade 5 or above in GCSE English literature