Instructions
Take a close look at the case of R. v. Hart (2014), a recent Supreme Court of Canada decision. As you know, that is a case that involves confession evidence obtained via the Mr. Big technique. Read the decision carefully (see file labelled R. v. Hart, 2014). You’ll see how the justices evaluated the facts and how they applied the law. You’ll also see the judges’ reasoning on various issues (collectively and that of 2 justices who had additional analysis to share). You’ll also see their proposed 2 prong solution to the problem.
Suppose you meet the 7 judges at a party and strike up a conversation. You mention to them that you are familiar with the Hart case and their decision in the context of a psychology and law class. Surprised (but wondering just what you know that they might not), the judges ask you what you think of their thinking on the case and their ultimate decision to dismiss the appeal. They are curious about the psychological science relevant to this case. You decide to buy yourself some time and tell them that you’ll get back to them on that.
write the justices a friendly letter and share your knowledge of the relevant scientific literature relating to this case. There may be positions that you agree with (tell them, tell them why, provide evidence from the psychological science to back your position). You might also find that they might have needed more information that might have influenced them to decide an aspect of the case differently (explain!). For example, you might point out research that should have pointed them in a different direction, or research that they should have considered in their decision. In other words, write them a letter where you provide some advice/suggestions grounded in what you know and learned about the topic. The point is to showcase your knowledge of the relevant psychological literature as it applies to this case by teaching these judges what you know.
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Be sure that you include in-text citations and a reference page and that you paraphrase the articles. No direct quotes should appear in your letter. Do not copy/paste from your sources – that’s plagiarism. Use APA style for the reference page and in-text citation (see syllabus for some guidelines on this and for information on academic integrity).
Assignment marking rubric:
| Solid critique of the decision, including aspects you agree with and aspects you disagree with (along with supporting evidence via psychological science) (minimum 5 pages) | 10 |
| Solid description of the psychological research (minimum 5 pages) | 8 |
| Format (you get 2 points if you follow the format above) | 2 |