Writing and Understanding Contracts

WRITING AND UNDERSTANDING CONTRACTS

DOWRIES In the past, marriages were carried out

as legal agreements in order to create new power relationships, alliances, and to cure old feuds.

A dowry was often exchanged for a bride to become wed to the groom.

Dowry – a process whereby parental property is distributed to a daughter at her marriage

CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS An agreement is a decision reached

between two distinct parties. These are not legally binding.

A contract is a legal agreement reached between two parties. Breaching a contract carries legal consequences.

VOCABULARY Term- the length of time a contract is in

effect. Conditions – the rights and obligations of

the contracting parties. Or, what each side is expected to carry out.

Negotiation - A dialogue between two or more parties that is intended to reach an agreement.

Consideration – to be a valid contract, there must be something given up by both parties.

VOCABULARY Breach – Void – One partner does something that

makes the contract invalid. Damages – the amount to be paid if one

party breaks the contract.

EXERCISE Student A has an undisclosed amount of money at their

disposal to spend on a used car. Student B is selling the car and needs to come to an agreement with Student A. Negotiate the terms of this contract and see who can get the better deal for their money. The student who can negotiate the best deal for their money/commodity wins.

EXERCISE Step One: Student B describes the car to

Student A. Student A makes an offer of sale.

EXERCISE Step Two: Student B considers offer and

makes a counter offer on Student A’s conditions.

EXERCISE Repeat these steps in two minute rounds

and reach an agreement. Record the contract on your worksheet.

QUICKWRITE What is the dowry for Juliet’s wedding to

Romeo? Is this valuable to her and her husband? Why or why not?

What do we think the damages will be for this contract?