Active learning ideas
This topic moves from the 'why' of punishment to the 'how.' Students analyze the various sentences available to the courts in England and Wales, including custodial sentences (prison), community orders, fines, and discharges. They must evaluate these against the aims of punishment studied previously, a key requirement for WJEC AC 2.2.
Activity 01
Provide a case study of a robbery. Students use the actual Sentencing Council guidelines to identify aggravating and mitigating factors, then 'pass' a sentence that fits within the legal range.
What factors influence a judge's sentencing decision?
Activity 02
Display data on reoffending rates for different sentences (e.g., short prison terms vs. community service). Students move around to identify which sentences are most 'effective' for different types of offenders.
How effective are community orders compared to short prison sentences?
Activity 03
Give students a list of offender circumstances (e.g., first offence, remorse, difficult upbringing). Pairs must rank which factors should have the biggest impact on reducing a sentence and why.
What are the societal consequences of mandatory life sentences?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
A 'life sentence' always means the person stays in prison until they die.
Most 'life' sentences have a 'minimum term' (tariff) after which the offender can apply for parole. Only a 'whole life order' means no release. A simulation of a parole hearing can help clarify this distinction.
Community orders are a 'soft option.'
Community orders can be very demanding, involving hundreds of hours of unpaid work, strict curfews, and mandatory drug treatment. Using a gallery walk to show the requirements of these orders helps dispel the 'soft' myth.
Methods used in this brief
The Making of Criminal Laws
An investigation into how laws are made in Parliament and the influence of judges through judicial precedent. Students will examine the impact of public campaigns on legislation.
8 methodologies
Aims of Punishment
A philosophical and practical examination of why society punishes offenders. Students will differentiate between retribution, rehabilitation, deterrence, and public protection.
8 methodologies