How well is justice served through the legal system? (Unit of work)

How well is justice served in the legal system?

About this unit

This unit of work develops students’ knowledge and understanding of the justice system, with a focus on the role of sentencing. It begins by exploring the range of different punishments available in the UK for breaking the law, and the factors that influence decisions about sentencing. It considers the aims of punishment, using scenarios to reflect on the purposes and outcomes of sentences. It analyses the role of restorative justice and considers why and how to educate young people about the justice pathway. It then investigates the roles of the people involved in the justice system, ahead of preparing for a simulated court trial.

Students are introduced to the scenario that will form the basis of the trial, before exploring the dynamics of the courtroom setting. They investigate different types of evidence and reflect on the evidence to be used in the simulated trial. They explore the significance of ensuring fair trials to uphold justice and protect individual rights. They finish by taking part in the simulated trial, analysing its outcomes and the fairness of decisions, before considering how well justice is achieved more generally in the legal system.

This unit of work forms part of our model core curriculum which is exclusively available to School and College Members.

National curriculum links
The nature of rules and laws and the justice system, including the role of the police and the operation of courts and tribunals

Citizenship skills
Political literacy, communication, evaluation, investigation, collaborative working, decision-making, representing others’ views, making judgements, analysis, debate

Citizenship concepts
Democracy, justice, legislation, rights, responsibilities, ethics, conflict, freedom, punishment, community cohesion, equality, fairness, respect

Building progression
This scheme of work is part of ACT’s model core curriculum for Citizenship in secondary schools, which has been designed to develop and deepen students’ knowledge, skills and understanding throughout Key Stages 3 and 4. Other units linked to this Year 8 unit include:

Year 7: How do laws affect us?
Year 8: Does the criminal justice system serve everyone fairly?
Year 10: What tools can we use to challenge injustice in our communities?
Year 11: Does our legal system protect citizens’ rights?

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