Book Description

The analysis & critical appraisal of primary legal materials are the cornerstones of a deep & effective understanding of constitutional law. The Australian Constitution in Context is designed to introduce students to the text of the Commonwealth Constitution, & the other primary sources of constitutional law, including statutes & case law interpreting the provisions of the constitutional document. Designed as a resource book, it focuses on encouraging students to engage with original sources, in order to develop critical skills for analysis, alerting them to the contexts within which the sources function. The text also provides exercises calling upon students to reflect, not just on the language of the constitutional document, but also upon the history of its interpretation, & the social context within which constitutional disputes arise & are settled. Through the exercises & case studies students will develop an appreciation of the multiple facets of constitutional law, knowledge of the role & function of governmental institutions, & an understanding of core conceptual & theoretical issues. The questions & research exercises are supplemented by other activities, which include revision exercises & terminology lists for revision & individual assessment. These activities are designed to complement & support the exercises, & sharpen students' skills.