To introduce the functions of the law of torts within the legal system;
To provide a structured outline of a range of actionable torts, and commentary on contentious issues and recent developments therein;
To consider how the legal principles can be applied to a variety of problem scenarios based on hypothetical facts.

(LO1) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of the law of tort.

(LO2) Demonstrate basic understanding of the social and economic context in which the law of tort functions, its aims and objectives and its underlying policy issues.

(LO3) Identify and correctly apply the law to a set of hypothetical facts.

(LO4) Adopt a critical perspective to existing legal rules and identify constructive suggestions for reform.

(LO5) Undertake independent research, with appropriate guidance.

(LO6) Construct coherent legal arguments.

(LO7) Identify areas of uncertainty in the law and the facts to which the law is to be applied

(LO8) Develop strategies for managing uncertainty in the legal principles and in the hypothetical facts when tasked with giving advice

(S1) Critical thinking and problem solving - Critical analysis

(S2) Critical thinking and problem solving - Problem identification

(S3) Critical thinking and problem solving - Synthesis

(S4) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

(S5) Apply legal knowledge to complex factual situations

(S6) Information skills - Information accessing: locating relevant information and identifying and evaluating information sources

(S7) Reflection on performance, including the use of feedback to develop the quality of work produced and to self-assess work

The module syllabus will include a selection of the following topics:
• Negligence (Semester 1)
o Duty of care
o Breach of duty
o Causation in fact and law
o Defences
o Damages and death
• Discrete torts (Semester 2)
o Occupiers’ liability
o Nuisance (public and private) and the rule in Rylands v Fletcher
o Trespass to the person
o Vicarious liability
o Liability for defective products
o Defamation (libel and slander)

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Students will attend 20 hours of lectures per semester. These sessions will provide students with a broad overview of the subject area, a structure to follow to aid comprehension and facilitate independent study, and analysis and guidance on key issues.
Attendance Recorded: No

Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description: Students will attend four seminars in semester one and four seminars in semester two. These sessions will take place on a fortnightly cycle. Students are expected to prepare thoroughly for these sessions in advance. These sessions will interrogate various module topics in detail, offering students the opportunity to apply their knowledge to problem-based questions and consolidate their independent learning of the subject.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 3 – Structured Workshops
Description: Students will attend a 2-hour structured workshop in semester one and another in semester two – both will focus on the honing skills of application, including how to demonstrate critical analysis in problem question/advice giving scenarios and managing uncertainty in the law or its application.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

The module’s general pattern will be:

•Students engage with lectures, supplementary materials on Canvas and set reading.
•Students will attend 4 x 90 minute seminars each semester which focus learning on core areas of tort ultimately designed to support attainment in all assessments.
• The module team delivers a further 2 hour structured workshop each semester focused on application, managing uncertainty in the law and in fact matrices and assessment support/revision.