Active learning ideas
Parliamentary law making is the cornerstone of the UK's legislative system. This topic covers the journey of a Bill through both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, from its initial conception to Royal Assent. Students examine the various influences on Parliament, including political manifestos, public opinion, pressure groups, and emergency events, which shape the legislative agenda.
Activity 01
Assign students roles as MPs, Lords, and the Monarch. They must take a controversial 'Classroom Bill' through the stages of First Reading, Second Reading, Committee Stage, Report Stage, and Third Reading, including a 'ping-pong' session between houses.
What influences Parliament to make new laws?
Activity 02
Provide students with three real-world laws (e.g., the smoking ban). They must identify which pressure groups might have influenced the law and what methods they likely used, then compare their theories with a partner.
What are the stages a Bill must pass through to become an Act?
Activity 03
In groups, students research a case where Parliamentary Supremacy was challenged (e.g., Factortame or Miller). They create a timeline of the conflict between Parliament and other bodies to present to the class.
How does the doctrine of parliamentary supremacy operate?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
The House of Lords can permanently block any Bill.
Under the Parliament Acts 1911 and 1949, the Lords can only delay most Bills for up to a year. A simulation of the 'ping-pong' process helps students see how the Commons ultimately holds the power.
Royal Assent is a stage where the King can reject a law.
While technically possible, Royal Assent is now a constitutional formality and has not been refused since 1708. Discussing the 'constitutional convention' helps students understand the reality of modern monarchy.
Methods used in this brief
Delegated Legislation
An examination of the types of delegated legislation, the reasons for its use, and the mechanisms for its control by Parliament and the courts.
8 methodologies
Statutory Interpretation
A review of the rules, aids, and presumptions used by judges to interpret statutes. Students will apply the literal, golden, and mischief rules to legal scenarios.
8 methodologies
Judicial Precedent
An exploration of the doctrine of judicial precedent (stare decisis), the hierarchy of the courts in precedent, and how judges can avoid following past decisions.
8 methodologies