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Year 11 - Citizenship

What are the advantages and disadvantages of an uncodified constitution?

What is the nature of the British Constitution?

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils consider why we need a separation of powers and whether the current political structures are fit for purpose.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe what an uncodified constitution is and consider the advantages and disadvantages of this.

Key Notes

  • There are two types of constituition codified and uncodified. The UK has an uncodified constitution.
  • The UK constitution is shaped by many different documents e.g. Magna Carta and the Bill of Rights.
  • An advantage of an uncodified constitution is it is more flexible. A disadvantage is it can seem more complicated.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • constitution: the set of principles and rules by which a country is organised
  • codified constitution: when the principles and rules by which a country is organised are written down, usually in a single document
  • uncodified constitution: when the principles and rules by which a country is organised are not written down in a single written document

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • An uncodified constitution means there are no rules or limitations on government power.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

There are two types of constituition codified and uncodified. The UK has an uncodified constitution. The UK constitution is shaped by many different documents e.g. Magna Carta and the Bill of Rights.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'constitution'

the set of principles and rules by which a country is organised.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: An uncodified constitution means there are no rules or limitations on government power. Correction: There are rules and limitations on government power in an uncodified constitution, e.g. the UK's uncodified constitution is made up of various sources, including statute law and common law. Rule of law is a key principle that guides Parliament.

More Lessons In This Unit

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