Question: “Throughout all Australian legal systems children under the age of ten are considered to be too young to form criminal intent (mens rea)
. Discuss the appropriateness of this age limit in responding to offences committed by children.”

Two required readings for each of these essay questions can be located in the ‘Assessments’ folder. You are to use the two required readings plus three other scholarly sources of your own choosing to inform your response to the essay question. In total you must use a minimum of five scholarly sources for this assessment.

Your written response to the essay question will be submitted in essay format using the 1,500 (+/- ­10% leniency) word limit. It would be appropriate to use headings to signal the way you will direct your analysis and discussion, however you must use a formal writing style with correct referencing using the Harvard system. In the essay you should:

Use a minimum of five scholarly sources (e.g. Journal articles, book chapters and respected government websites)

.You must acknowledge the ideas of others, reference direct quotes properly using the Harvard referencing system and include a reference list at the end (not included in the word count)

. Viewpoints need to be substantiated using relevant literature, empirical evidence, and convincing argumentation.
The task must be word­-processed, doubled spaced and use a 12pt font

.You must also retain an electronic or hard copy of your submission as dictated by University Assessment Policy.

The following sections should be included in your essay:

Introduction: Orients the reader to the topic, previewing the stages of the essay, and, clarifying the writer’s position.

Body Paragraphs: The body consists of a logically sequenced series of paragraphs that develops the essay topic. Each paragraph should express one key idea that relates to your analysis. Begin the paragraph by introducing this key idea and then explain and elaborate on the idea using relevant literature and research. Try to use sentences that connect each paragraph to one another by linking ideas and lines of argument.

Conclusion: Restates the major argument developed in the essay. Briefly summarise major points and implications.