Activity 10j

1. The task word ‘discuss’ require students to consider both sides of something. In this case, ‘discussing’ the Victorian Law Reform Commission’s ability to influence law reform requires students to write about factors related to how effective or ineffective the VLRCis. 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 some features of the VLRC might result in it only having a minimal impact on law reform, itis largely effective in influencing law reform. In this case, ‘evaluating’ the VLRC as a means for influencing law reform requires students to write about points related to effectiveness and points related to ineffectiveness.

3. 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 some features of the Victorian Law Reform Commission might result in it only having a minimal impact on law reform, it is largely effective in influencing law reform. In this case, ‘evaluating’ the VLRC as a means for influencing law reform requires students to write about points related to effectiveness and points related to ineffectiveness.

This specific question requires students to evaluate strengths, meaning they must commence with a stated strength, giving reasons for why it is an advantage/benefit, then move on to provide reasons against that in the form of weaknesses that counterbalance the strength. Students should then finish with a concluding opinion on how ‘good’ the strength is overall.

For example, in relation to capacity for research, the Victorian Law ReformCommission can conduct thorough research on law reform issues so the recommendations it passes to parliament are well-founded and reflective of expert opinion, and of documented and statistical evidence.However, the Commission’s investigative processes are much more time-consuming than the average protest, petition or media report. The average report takes between 6 and 24 months to complete – and it is not uncommon for them to take longer. Overall, while some factors can limit the VLRC’s effectiveness in influencing law reform, it does have the capacity to conduct thorough research meaning that it can make informed recommendations to parliament.