Question 1
In the adversary system, what is the main role of the judge during a criminal trial?
Writing the HSC Legal Studies Crime extended response
One 15-mark question on Crime, about 600 words. Most questions ask how effective the law is, so the top answers reach a judgement and support it with law, not just a description of the process.
| Marks | 15, one question |
|---|---|
| Length | About 600 words |
| Topic | Crime, the core |
| Key words | Assess, evaluate, discuss, analyse |
A plan for 15 marks
- An introduction that answers the question in one sentence: how effective, and for whom.
- Two or three body paragraphs, each on one stage, issue or response: what it is, the law or case you studied that shows it working, and its strengths and limits.
- A conclusion that weighs the paragraphs and says what decides your judgement.
Balance the interests
Criminal law balances the rights of victims, offenders and the community. Say whose interests a response serves, whose it may not, and use that tension to explain your judgement rather than simply listing what the law says.
Try 2 questions
Question 2
In a hypothetical NSW case, a nine-year-old deliberately smashes a neighbour's window. Can the child be found guilty of an offence?
Next step
Questions people ask
How many examples do I need?
Enough to support each paragraph with law you have studied in class: a statute, a case, a law reform report or a media report. Each one should back a point you explain.
Do I need a conclusion?
Yes. A short one that states your judgement and the reason that decides it.