Pupils should have a basic understanding of

• the importance of the law for Consumers
  
  
• the difference between civil and criminal law
  
  
• the types of criminal law enforced by Trading Standards Departments
  
  
• the effects of underage product sales on both young people and traders
  
  
• the different Court Structures that exist for dealing with breaches of Civil and Criminal Law
  
  
• the difference in the types of penalties by the civil and criminal justice systems

Begin the lesson by talking about buying things and recapping the meanings of the 'consumer' . Also recap why it is necessary for consumer protection rules.

Introduce the word 'law' into the discussion. Ask the students to think of words that they associate with 'law'. Consider the historical development of the Law and explain to the class that there are different types of 'Law'

Introduce the differences between 'Civil Law' and 'Criminal Law' and ask the students to reflect on these differences.

Look at the civil and criminal laws dealt with by Trading Standards. Use the buying of underage products as a detailed case study and discuss the different ages that you need to be to buy/do certain things

Consider the structure of the Courts system and explain how different cases are dealt with by different Courts. Then look at the different types of penalties that are available within the Civil and Criminal Justice System.

Use the Underage Role Play with your students to help them to understand the dangers to them and the penalties that a trader could face if they were caught selling products to underage consumers.