How does law and order work in Britain today? - Teacher's Notes

Exploring the intricacies of law and order within Britain, a comprehensive lesson plan has been developed for educators. The lesson commences with a visual stimulus, directing students to watch a BBC Teach video that delves into the concept of British values, particularly the rule of law. This serves as a springboard for discussion, prompting pupils to articulate five fundamental reasons why laws are indispensable to society. The discussion aims to deepen their understanding of the legal framework that underpins British society and its importance in maintaining order and protecting citizens.

Furthering their exploration, the lesson plan encourages pupils to investigate the historical and contemporary roles of judges in the UK, including the longstanding tradition of their presence within the judicial system. To aid in this discovery, a BBC resource is provided, although it comes with a cautionary note about potentially disturbing content, and teachers are advised to review it beforehand. Students are then tasked with conducting independent research on various aspects of the British legal system. Topics range from the origins and evolution of juries, the establishment of the police force, the development of prisons, the inception of intelligence agencies such as MI5 and MI6, to the history of Scotland Yard. This research is intended to help students trace the transformation of 'crime and punishment' over the ages and gain a clearer picture of how law and order operate in contemporary Britain.