The effectiveness of demonstrations
1. The task word ‘discuss’ require students to consider both sides of something. In this case, ‘discussing’ the use of demonstrations as a means by which individuals can influence law reform requires students to write about factors related to how effective or ineffective demonstrations are. Responses will vary according to the arguments selected.
2. The task word ‘evaluate’ require students to consider both sides of something, as well as express an opinion judging the relative strengths of the arguments. For example, a student might argue, based on evidence, that while demonstrations might have some impact, they are largely an ineffective means for influencing law reform. In this case, ‘evaluating’ demonstrations as an effective means for the individual to have a meaningful impact on the law in Australiarequires students to write about points related to effectiveness and points related to ineffectiveness.
For example, in relation to community participation, ordinary people can easily involve themselves with protests, therefore feeling more involved and invested in the political system. It does not take a great deal of time nor a large financial commitment, and makes people part of a community with other like-minded people in a way that a petition or writing in to a newspaper does not.However, many people believe that it is inappropriate to cause public disruption or to break the law, regardless of how important the issue is, and they look down on this choice. Given that parliaments have legislated against many forms of protest in recent years, having to stay within the law can be a significant limitation – and if a protest fails to cause any public disruption, it may fail to even be noticed. Overall, while demonstrations can result in community participation, they will be largely ineffective if they receive little media coverage.