ELKS L11 Writing Skills: Problem Qs 2 Dr Ebba Lekvall 15/10/25

Introduction

The transcript captures a discussion that revolves around various topics, primarily focused on the IRAC structure for answering problem questions in a law context. The conversation also briefly touches on some frustrations regarding technology use, specifically USB keys and computer updates, before transitioning into legal education methodologies.

Technical Difficulties

Security Issues and USB Keys
  • Participants express frustration over the lack of communication due to the absence of phones in a security place.
  • A need arises to approach tech support to decrypt a USB key for proper usage, indicating the necessity of carrying a decryption key.
  • Concerns exist regarding security policies that deem USB drives as potential virus carriers, complicating their use despite their utility when there is no internet access.

Legal Educational Structure

Overview of IRAC Structure
  • The IRAC structure is an analytical tool used in legal education, consisting of:
    • I - Issue
    • R - Rule
    • A - Application
    • C - Conclusion
  • The session is a continuation from a previous discussion, focusing on applying the IRAC method to problem questions.
  • An illustration of a grid or matrix is introduced to facilitate this analytical process.

Class Engagement and Matrix Utilization

Practice Examples
  • Students are prompted to engage with practical scenarios, enabling hands-on learning with the IRAC matrix.
Access to Resources
  • A QR Code and materials are available on ELK's Moodle page.
  • Emphasis on collaborative work: students can discuss in pairs or groups to fulfill grid activity requirements.
  • The instructor makes rounds to assist with any technical issues or clarify problems presented.

Application of the IRAC Structure

Example Problem Discussion
  • An example regarding a refund for a toaster is presented to demonstrate the IRAC application:
    • Issue: Will the customer get a refund for the toaster?
    • Rule: Refunds are permitted within 14 days for unused products in original packaging.
    • Application: Despite returning within the timeframe and in original packaging, the toaster has been used, disqualifying the refund.
    • Conclusion: Refund denied based on usage.
  • Another problem involving laundry machine etiquette was discussed to reinforce the IRAC application process.

Language and Clarity in Legal Writing

Communication Skills
  • Importance of maintaining clarity and professionalism in legal writing, especially for problem questions where the audience may lack legal knowledge.
Specific Language Guidance
  • Emphasis on using concise, direct language, and avoiding unnecessary embellishments or complex terms unless fully understood.
  • Students are encouraged to build a personal dictionary of phrases that can assist in each stage of the IRAC to enhance their writing.

Legal Structure and Rules

Describing Legal Framework
  • Students learn to present relevant laws and rules, differentiating between foundational legal principles and contextual application.
Importance of Relevant Application
  • Students are cautioned against adding irrelevant rules in their applications, which can muddle the analysis.
Strategies for Effective Application
  • Successful application combines factual analysis with knowledge of relevant laws to substantiate conclusions.

Conclusion Structure

Complexity of Conclusions
  • Students are reminded to conclude on various sub-issues separately when faced with multi-faceted questions, rather than only presenting an overarching conclusion.
  • The significance of methodically providing conclusions to each relevant issue raised within the problem question.

Overview of Practical Examples and Review

Review of Student Answers
  • Analysis of previous student answers showcases how to structure issues, rules, applications, and conclusions effectively.
  • Mixed elements such as new issues and further rules, stressing the importance of depth in legal analysis.
  • Encouragement to utilize the IRAC grid to wisely navigate complex scenarios similar to Russian nesting dolls (matryoshka).

Recap and Continuing Development

Ongoing Practice
  • The need for continued practice and attendance at tutorials to reinforce understanding of legal concepts.
  • General reminders on formatting, citation rules, and attention to detail regarding word count in assignments.
Personal Development
  • Emphasis on the importance of developing skills through practical, continuous engagement with varied problem scenarios in law education.
  • Access to Moodle and other resources as crucial for students' preparation and practice beyond