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LA407-15 Dramatised Dissertation (Half Module)

Department
School of Law
Level
Undergraduate Level 3
Module leader
Laura Lammasniemi
Credit value
15
Module duration
10 weeks
Assessment
100% coursework
Study location
University of Warwick main campus, Coventry

Introductory description

The dramatized dissertation will provide an opportunity for in-depth research, creative writing and multi-media presentation.

What is expected of me?

The half module Dramatized Dissertation will have a maximum word limit of 9,000 words (comprising 1,000 word reflective prologue and 5,000 dramatic script) and will be totally assessed.

The script is assessed on the accuracy and ingenuity in handling the law and related issues and on the format and style of the writing. The reflective prologue which consists of 25% of the work (1,000 words) should include clear reflection on key themes the script is focused on.

The script can be accompanied by a simple audio or audio-visual “readthrough” of the script.

How do I get started?

Acceptance on the module is at the discretion of the Module Convenor. The module convenor will consider all proposals and make decisions acceptance based on the strength and viability of the research proposal. The deadline for proposal submissions is the end of week 1 of Term 3 (Friday 5pm). Proposal forms can be found on the Intranet.

The application form must be accompanied by a 500 word sample dialogue with a view to ascertaining the student’s threshold competence to submit a Dramatized Dissertation. Please discuss the sample script and ideas in detail with the proposed supervisor before submitting an application.

Module web page

Module aims

The dramatised dissertation will provide an opportunity for in-depth research, creative writing and multi-media presentation. The candidate undertaking a Dramatised Dissertation is required to submit their work in the form of a dramatic script such as a play or film script.

The idea of the Dramatised Dissertation is to permit students to follow up a particular research interest arising out of modules already taken, modules currently being undertaken or broader legal issues, and to explore those interest through creative writing.

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The dissertation modules will run differently from your other modules. The majority of work you do for this module will
be independent research, guided by a supervisor. In addition, there will be termly workshops and writing bootcamps.
The workshops cover issues such as doing legal research, research ethics, and writing.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the main concepts and principles of their area of research
  • Reflect critically on their learning as demonstrated by reflective prologue of 1,000 words
  • Develop a clear and critical research question that is explored through the dramatic script;
  • Identify and employ a broad range of primary and secondary sources relevant to their topic area
  • Plan, structure, and write a dramatic script on a chosen subject

Indicative reading list

The student is expected to identify materials relevant to their research topic.

Legal research specific bibliography includes:

  • Lammasniemi L, Law dissertations: a step-by-step guide (Routledge 2021, 2nd edition)
  • Salter M and Mason J, Writing law dissertations: an introduction and guide to the conduct of legal research (Pearson 2007)
  • Knowles J, Effective legal research (2012)

Research element

The student will undertake significant independent research into their chosen topic.

Interdisciplinary

The student will write a dramatic script.

Subject specific skills

By the end of the module the student should be able to identify and employ a broad range of primary and secondary sources relevant to their topic area.

Transferable skills

No transferable skills defined for this module.

Study time

Type Required
Project supervision 3 sessions of 1 hour (2%)
Practical classes 4 sessions of 1 hour (3%)
Private study 143 hours (95%)
Total 150 hours

Private study description

Independent research

Costs

No further costs have been identified for this module.

You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.

Assessment group A2
Weighting Study time Eligible for self-certification
6000 Dramatised Dissertation 100% No

The dissertation consists of 5,000 word script and a 1,000 word reflective prologue, totally assessed.

The half module Dramatized Dissertation will have a maximum word limit of 6,000 words (comprising 1,000 word reflective prologue and 5,000 dramatic script). Appropriate departmental resources will be provided to record a simple audio or audio-visual “readthrough” of the script if the student chooses to submit audio or visual.

Feedback on assessment

Feedback via Tabula

Courses

This module is Optional for:

  • Year 3 of ULAA-M300 Undergraduate Law
  • Year 3 of ULAA-M105 Undergraduate Law (3 year) (Qualifying Degree)
  • ULAA-M106 Undergraduate Law (4 year) (Qualifying Degree)
    • Year 3 of M106 Law (4 year) (Qualifying Degree)
    • Year 4 of M106 Law (4 year) (Qualifying Degree)
  • Year 4 of ULAA-M104 Undergraduate Law (Year Abroad)
  • Year 4 of ULAA-M108 Undergraduate Law (Year Abroad) (Qualifying Degree)
  • Year 3 of ULAA-M110 Undergraduate Law with Humanities (3 Year)
  • Year 3 of ULAA-M113 Undergraduate Law with Humanities (4 Year) (Qualifying Degree)

This module is Option list A for:

  • Year 4 of ULAA-M10A Undergraduate Law with French Law (Qualifying Degree)
  • Year 4 of ULAA-M10C Undergraduate Law with German Law (Qualifying Degree)
  • Year 4 of ULAA-M113 Undergraduate Law with Humanities (4 Year) (Qualifying Degree)
  • Year 3 of ULAA-M115 Undergraduate Law with Social Sciences (3 Year) (Qualifying Degree)