Active learning ideas
This topic examines the interaction between the three branches of government: the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary. Students explore the concept of the 'separation of powers' and how it applies to the UK's parliamentary system. A major focus is the role of the Supreme Court and its power of judicial review, particularly in cases involving human rights and the limits of government authority.
Activity 01
Students simulate a real Supreme Court case (e.g., the Miller cases on Brexit). They take on roles as judges, government lawyers, and claimants to argue whether the executive has exceeded its legal powers.
How does the Supreme Court interact with the executive?
Activity 02
Groups investigate different 'locations' of sovereignty: legal (Parliament), political (the people), and devolved (Scotland/Wales). They create a diagram showing how these different types of sovereignty interact and overlap.
Has the balance of power shifted from Parliament to the executive?
Activity 03
Students discuss why it is important for judges to be independent of the government. They brainstorm ways this independence is protected (e.g., life tenure, salary) and potential threats to it.
Where does sovereignty reside in the UK?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
The Supreme Court can strike down any law it thinks is unfair.
Unlike the US, the UK Supreme Court cannot strike down Acts of Parliament due to parliamentary sovereignty. It can only issue a 'declaration of incompatibility.' Use a comparative chart to show the difference between UK and US judicial powers.
The executive and the legislature are completely separate in the UK.
In the UK, the executive is 'fused' with the legislature because ministers must be members of Parliament. A 'mapping' activity of the government structure can help students visualize this fusion of power.
Methods used in this brief
The Constitution
An examination of the nature and sources of the UK constitution. Students will debate the advantages and disadvantages of an uncodified constitution.
8 methodologies
Parliament
A detailed look at the structure, role, and functions of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Students will evaluate how effectively Parliament holds the executive to account.
8 methodologies
The Prime Minister and Executive
Analysis of the structure and role of the executive branch, focusing on the powers of the Prime Minister and the Cabinet. Students will explore the concept of prime ministerial power.
8 methodologies