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Year 11 - Citizenship

Should protesters ever break the law?

Why do we need the right to protest in a democracy?

Unit Summary

Pupils explore how rights have developed in the UK and how they are protected. They look at what changes in society have occurred due to protest.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain the contexts in which a protest might break a law and discuss whether breaking the law during protests is ever justified.

Key Notes

  • Everyone has the right to protest. This right is protected by law. However, restrictions can be placed on this right.
  • Organisations might use a range of different protest tactics to achieve their aims, some tactics break the law.
  • While protests are protected under law, they must find a balance with public safety and order regulations.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • law: rules, usually made by Parliament, that are used to order the way in which a society behaves
  • protest: a public demonstration or action expressing disapproval or objection to a policy, decision, or situation, often aimed at raising awareness or demanding change
  • disorder: disruptive or violent behaviour

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Breaking the law during a protest is always justified if the cause is important.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

Everyone has the right to protest. This right is protected by law. However, restrictions can be placed on this right. Organisations might use a range of different protest tactics to achieve their aims, some tactics break the law.

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

rules, usually made by Parliament, that are used to order the way in which a society behaves.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: Breaking the law during a protest is always justified if the cause is important. Correction: Breaking the law during a protest can have legal consequences and can undermine public support. In a democracy, lawful methods are typically seen as more effective and legitimate forms of protest.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 11 Citizenship guide library.