ENGSEMJ British Civilisation: schedule spring 2012
Textbook: Oakland, John (2011) British Civilization An Introduction 7th Edition: Routledge
November 21
The UK in a historical context
Oakland pp. 3-9, 56-62, 83-87, 128-136
January 9, 16
Devolution: Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales
Oakland pp. 25, 74-76, 113-115, 136-141
January 23
Immigration and identities
Oakland pp. 12, 63-79
January 30, Feb. 6
The legal system
Oakland pp. 144-170
February 13, 20
The political system and constitutional issues
Oakland pp. 82-119
February 27
Education
Oakland pp. 232-254, 299
March 5
The media
Oakland pp. 258-267, 274-278
March 12
Revision and essay writing tips
British Civilisation – compulsory essay
Write about 1000 words on ONE of the following topics:
1. The question of independence for Scotland has become topical again in recent years. Do you think
that Scotland will – or should – become independent in the near future, and why Scotland rather
than Wales and/or Northern Ireland? Refer to both historical and recent constitutional developments
in your answer.
2. Compare the education, training and roles of lawyers in England and Norway. Which system do you
think is better and why?
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Try to keep your language relatively formal: avoid colloquialisms and contracted
forms, and make use of essay tips (Grammar p. 28).
Use at least 1.5 line spacing, font size 12 and provide a list of the sources (books,
websites etc) you have consulted.
As this is a chance for you to practise and get feedback on your writing, don’t waste
your time and mine by producing sections of copy and paste.
Deadline: February 13/20 (in class or Infosenter). Remember your name and email address.