Number of Units: 2
Exclusions: None
Method of Delivery: St Luke’s
External Assessment: Exam
Contribution to ATAR: Yes
Course Description
The Preliminary course develops students’ knowledge and understanding of the nature and functions of law and law-making, the development of Australian and international legal systems, the Australian constitution and the role of the individual. This is achieved by investigating, analysing and synthesising legal information and investigating legal issues from a variety of perspectives. The HSC course investigates the key areas of law, justice and human rights through a variety of focus studies which consider how changes in societies influence law reform.
Why study this course
Legal Studies is designed to foster intellectual, social and moral development by empowering students to think critically on the role of law and legal institutions in society. This is achieved through a review of selected legal rules, institutions and processes at the domestic and international level, a demystification of terminology and a focus on change, effectiveness, dispute resolution and justice. Legal Studies has a significant impact on students’ confidence in approaching and accessing the legal system and provides them with a better appreciation and understanding of the relationship between social and legal structures in society. The subject offers excellent preparation for life skills through an understanding of the legal system, its principles, structures, institutions and processes. Legal Studies further fosters a respect for cultural diversity and promotes tolerance. It allows students to question and evaluate the legal and democratic institutional structures within the domestic and international environment and to undertake a comparative analysis of other political and institutional structures.
Topics
Preliminary Course
Core Part I: The Legal System - 40% of course time
Core Part II: The Individual and the State - 30% of course time
Core Part III: Law in Practice - 30% of course time
HSC Course
Core Part I: Crime - 30% of course time
Core Part II: Human Rights – 20% of course time)
Part III: Options – 2 options – 25% of course time each
Consumers Global, environmental protection, Family, Indigenous peoples, Shelter, Workplace & World order
Post School Options
If you are interested in the following careers: policy writing, researcher, paralegal, consumer advocate, police officer or teacher then this course will enable you to acquire skills that could be utilized in these positions.