ESSAY QUESTION: – Does the law strike the right balance between different family members with regard to parenthood and childhood? (This can be answered as either between parents themselves or as between parents and children) Your essay should be 3,000 words with a tolerance of 10% either side of that (2,700-3,300) excluding footnotes and the annotated bibliography. There is no word count for the annotated bibliography, which should contain all the sources that you have read and consider to be relevant to answer the question. All references and the bibliography should follow the OSCOLA style. When marking your work, we will note the extent to which you have demonstrated strong: • Presentation and understanding of the law within its wider context; (LO2) • Evidence of critical and creative reflection on the material used and conclusions reached (LO3) • Critical analysis of the relevant issues, and arguments, both legal and non-legal, in the area, identifying and evaluating competing perspectives whilst showing an awareness of present day topical issues and new concepts; (LO3) • Depth and breadth of research, with the ability to judge the significance of the evidence used to support conclusions and recommendations; (LO4) • The structure of the work so that statements, arguments and conclusions flow coherently and logically. (LO5) 2:1 60-69% •Sound understanding of the subject area, which is generally accurate and well informed. •Correct identification of subject area and of most issues. •Citation of key relevant material in support of most statements (academic opinion, theory, cases, statutes, public policy debates etc.). •Good application of materials to question/facts. •Reasoned argument on facts and reasoned judgement on competing viewpoints. •Synthesis of legal and non-legal solutions to problem •Evaluation of potential legal and non-legal solutions to problems in terms of suitability cost and need. •Some evidence of critical analysis and evaluation •Creative thinking. •Clarity of argument and expression. •Evidence of independent research including primary sources. •Good standard of presentation. 1st 70-79% (only 80+ in really exceptional circumstances) •Excellent in-depth understanding of the subject area, including its development and context. •Correct and comprehensive identification of the issues raised by question. •Citation and application of all or most materials relevant to the topic (academic opinion, legal theory, cases, statutes, public policy debates etc.). •Excellent application of materials to question/facts. •Reasoned argument on facts and reasoned judgement on competing viewpoints. •Synthesis of legal and non-legal solutions to problem. •Ability to think creatively and imaginatively •Evaluation of potential legal and non-legal solutions to problems in terms of suitability, cost and need. •Critical analysis and evaluation. •Strong evidence of independent research and its application. •Command of relevant theory. •Clarity of argument and expression. •Full and accurate citation (appropriate to assessment format). •High level of presentation.
