Welcome to "Understanding Contract Law in the UK". This class is designed to introduce students aged 13-17 to the basic principles of contract law in the UK. Through engaging activities, real-life examples, and interactive discussions, students will learn about the importance of contracts in everyday life, the key elements that make a contract valid, and their rights and responsibilities when entering into agreements.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand what a contract is and why contracts are important.
2. Identify the key elements of a valid contract: offer, acceptance, consideration, intention to create legal relations, and capacity.
3. Recognise different types of contracts and common scenarios where contracts are used.
4. Understand what happens when contracts are breached and the possible legal consequences.

Class Outline:

Introduction to Contract Law (10 minutes)

Icebreaker Activity: Discuss common agreements students make in their daily lives (e.g., borrowing items, social media terms of service).

Definition of a Contract: Explain what a contract is and why it’s important.
Key Elements of a Valid Contract (15 minutes)

Offer and Acceptance: Describe what constitutes an offer and acceptance using relatable examples (e.g., buying a phone, agreeing to do chores for allowance).

Consideration: Explain the concept of consideration (something of value exchanged) with simple examples.

Intention to Create Legal Relations: Discuss how parties must intend to create a legal relationship.

Capacity: Talk about who can legally enter into a contract (age, mental capacity).
Types of Contracts and Common Scenarios (10 minutes)

Written vs. Oral Contracts: Explain the difference and when each might be used.
Everyday Examples: Provide examples such as mobile phone contracts, buying tickets, and online purchases.
Rights and Responsibilities (10 minutes)

What Happens When Contracts Are Breached? (10 minutes)

Consequences of Breach: Explain what a breach of contract is and the potential legal consequences.

Resolving Disputes: Briefly talk about how disputes can be resolved (negotiation, mediation, going to court).

Finishing with a short quiz.

By the end of this class, students will have a foundational understanding of contract law in the UK, empowering them to make informed decisions and understand their legal rights and responsibilities in various everyday situations.