Criminology

Top skills; Curiosity, Critical Thinking, Sense Making

Course Content 

All pupils will study the Crime in the Community unit, as well as two of the three other units listed below. 

Criminology: Crime in the Community 

Pupils will study how crime is classified and how much crime there is. They will also consider the different ways crime is reported in the media and its impact on people’s perception of crime. Pupils will also find out about how crime is being addressed in their community through policing and the criminal justice system. 

Modern Studies: Social Issues in the United Kingdom 

Pupils will study the causes of crime, the impact of crime and the approaches used to tackle crime. They will look at the role and powers of the police and the punishments available to the courts and their effectiveness. Pupils will also learn about the Children’s Hearing System. 

Criminology: Crime Scenes 

Pupils will study the different types of physical evidence available at a crime scene. They will learn about the importance of preserving evidence and how it will be used. They will also understand about psychological evidence. 

The History and Development of Criminology 

Pupils will study how criminology has developed over the years. They will develop an understanding of the biological, sociological and psychological theories concerning criminal behaviour. 

Learning & Teaching

Teaching and learning strategies used in the NPA level 5 Criminology course include group work, debates, class discussion and videos. Active learning will be emphasised with pupils regularly teaching their peers. Pupils will develop their ICT skills by conducting Internet research, producing PowerPoints/Sways/reports/etc.

There may be opportunities for pupils to learn directly from those involved in the criminal justice system such as police officers, prison officers, social workers, etc.

Assessment

As this course is a National Progression Award there is no exam for pupils to sit at the end of the year. Assessment is continuous throughout the year and will be mostly generated under open-book conditions. Examples of the ways in which pupils can be assessed include reports, posters, written answers to question and oral presentations.

Entry Requirements

A minimum of a National 4 pass in Modern Studies and/or another Social Subject

 Click on the below boxes for further information on the different levels