THE INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS IN IRELAND

EDUCATORS’ BRIEFING 2008/2009

FORMATION 1 - BUSINESS LAWS

Topic Guidelines
1 Comments on Examination candidates should be able to
Performance in 2008 demonstrate a grasp of the essential principles of the
Examinations subject and knowledge of relevant case law. Insofar
as examination candidates are presented with
scenario questions they should be able to identify the
relevant legal principles arising with reference to
appropriate authority. The importance of legible
writing and correct language should be emphasised
to candidates. Candidates should read the
examination paper carefully to ensure they fully
understand both the content of the questions and the
required format of answers. The standard of answer
expected will be in accordance with the competency
level specified in the syllabus. Candidates should
read the syllabus carefully as all aspects of the
course will be examinable. Candidates should ensure
that they give sufficient time to each question in
proportion to its potential mark.
2 Syllabus Objectives The Learning Outcomes are as set out in the Syllabus

3 Format of the The examination format and an indication of the

Examination Papers for marks allocation are stated in the syllabus.
2009 Students will be required to answer any 5 questions
from 7. Only 5 solutions will be marked even where a
student submits answers all 7 The examination paper
is designed and moderated on the basis that
candidates should only be able to successfully
complete the requisite number of questions.
Attempting more than is required merely serves to
reduce the time that should duly be allocated to other
questions. Any student answering more than the
requisite number of questions must clearly show
which answer(s) is / are not to be marked. Otherwise,
only the first 5 answers to hand will be marked.

4 Education Focus for There are seven questions in the exam and eight
2009 topics on the syllabus. Examination candidates
should be prepared to answer questions across the
full range of the syllabus. Candidates should be
encouraged to use questions and solutions from the
two previous Business Law examination papers and
pilot paper, and relevant examination guides when
preparing for the examination such as, Niall
O’Hanlon’s “Preparation for the Examination” all
available from the Institute’s website. In addition they
should use relevant past paper questions and
solutions from the former Formation 1 Stage subject
“Legal Framework” also available from the Institute’s
website.