How to structure an answer

1. How to structure an answer Crime and Problem Solving

3. So where are we now? • Seminar 1: reading the scenario and extracting the “material facts” • Seminar 2: reading a statute: • Noted number of offences and • Elements of offences • Applied law to facts • Seminar 3: reading cases: • What do the cases add to the statute?

4. But how do we write an answer? • Read the two answers in front of you on the Theft Act • Which do you think is the best answer • Why?

5. Ask yourself the following questions:- • Can you understand the relevant law on theft? • Is there a definition of theft? • What is the actus reus? • What is the mens rea? • Do you understand how the law applies to the facts? • Has Kim committed the actus reus? • Does she have the mens rea? • Do you understand the conclusion? • Is there a definite answer?

6. Writing a good answer • Introduction • The scope of the answer • Main body • Set out relevant law • Cite relevant authorities • Set out material facts • Apply law to facts • Identify problem areas • Conclusion

7. Look at paras 4 and 5 • Highlight in different colours • The setting out of the law • The material facts • The application of the law to the facts