2012
Assessment
Report
2012

Legal Studies GA 3: Written examination

GENERAL COMMENTS
The 2012 Legal Studies examination was challenging for many students.
Many common misunderstandings about various aspects of the legal system were evident in responses to the examination. Few students were able to demonstrate knowledge of a directions hearing. Incorrect cases were used as examples of the High Court protecting rights. In Question 3a. few students correctly identified that the Court of Appeal was higher than the Supreme Court (Trial Division) in the court hierarchy. Many students had a limited understanding of the operation of section 109 of the Constitution and struggled to provide a thorough response to Question 3b.
Students should become familiar with the study design throughout the year.
Students are expected to demonstrate the ability to discuss, explain and evaluate. Students’ ability to evaluate requires more attention.
Students should not rely on rote-learned or pre-prepared answers as they will rarely address the question.
Time management was an issue in this examination, with many students writing lengthy responses to questions that only required a shorter response, therefore not allowing enough time for longer questions. A shorter question that asks for an outline (for example, Question 1a.) requires no more than one or two sentences in response.
Good examination technique is essential and students should practise their technique throughout the year. If students continue their answers at the back of the booklet, they should indicate that they have done so (for example, by writing
‘PTO’ or ‘continued in extra space’). Black or blue pen should be used. Students are encouraged to use paragraphs, use legal terminology and ensure their handwriting is legible.

SPECIFIC INFORMATION
Note: Student responses reproduced herein have not been corrected for grammar,