Active learning ideas
Campaigns for Change focuses on the practical ways individuals and groups influence the legal system. Students examine the methods used by pressure groups, charities, and individuals to raise awareness and change laws, such as Sarah's Law or the campaign for Clare's Law. This topic covers the evaluation of different campaign methods, including social media, lobbying, and celebrity endorsement. It aligns with WJEC AC1.6 and AC2.1, requiring students to compare and evaluate the success of various campaigns.
Activity 01
Small groups are assigned a past campaign (e.g., the Double Jeopardy law change). They must research the methods used, the obstacles faced, and the final outcome, then present a 'success rating' to the class with evidence.
What methods are most effective in campaigning for legal change?
Activity 02
Pairs identify a current 'hidden crime' or legal injustice. They must design a 2-minute pitch for a campaign to change the law, specifying their target audience, key methods (e.g., a petition or a viral video), and a clear slogan.
How do pressure groups influence criminal justice policy?
Activity 03
Set up stations for different methods: Lobbying, Social Media, Marches, and Petitions. Students move between stations, listing the pros and cons of each method on large sheets of paper based on their case study knowledge.
Can you evaluate the success of a recent campaign for change?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
A campaign is only successful if the law is changed immediately.
Success can also mean raising public awareness, changing police policy, or starting a national conversation. Using a 'success rating' activity helps students see the different levels of impact a campaign can have.
You need a lot of money or a celebrity to start a successful campaign.
While helpful, many successful UK campaigns started with a single determined individual or a small community group. Reviewing 'grassroots' success stories in a collaborative investigation helps correct this belief.
Methods used in this brief
Understanding Different Types of Crime
An examination of various criminal offences, including white-collar, moral, state, and technological crimes. Students will analyse how these crimes differ in their execution and societal impact.
8 methodologies
The Dark Figure of Crime
Investigating the personal, social, and cultural reasons why individuals fail to report crimes to the police. This topic also covers the 'ripple effect' and consequences of hidden criminality.
8 methodologies
Media and Moral Panics
Analysing how various forms of media construct representations of crime and criminals. Students will explore the concept of moral panics and their influence on public attitudes.
8 methodologies