Students learn a handy acronym to help them remember six key concepts for evaluating information, then test the concepts in teams.
Freedom of Speech: Finding the Limits
As part of the Bill of Rights, freedom of speech is guaranteed by the Constitution, but it is not defined by it. That task is left up to the people through a representative government that makes the laws and a judicial system that interprets and applies the laws to resolve disputes. In this lesson, based on the Annenberg Classroom video “A Conversation on the Constitution: Freedom of Speech,” students gain insight into the many challenges involved in defining and protecting free speech. They also learn about principles that come from Supreme Court decisions and case law that are applied to define the limits for us today.
The Campus Speaker: A Case Study in Free Speech
Use this classroom-ready lesson to examine free-expression issues surrounding a controversial speaker invited to appear at UC Berkeley. We provide questions to help guide your students on if and when offensive speech should be banned, and what are the competing groups and interests.
Elonis v. United States (2015)
Does a conviction of threatening another person under 18 USC §875(c) require proof of the defendant’s subjective intent to threaten? This case summary explores the meanings and standards of proof behind intentions.
Williams-Yulee v. Florida Bar (2015)
Does a law that prohibits candidates for judicial office from personally asking for campaign funds violate the First Amendment? This case summary looks at First Amendment protections against Florida Bar Association regulations.
Regents of the U. of California v. Bakke (1978)
This case summary provides teachers with everything they need to teach about Regents of the U. of California v. Bakke (1978). It contains background information in the form of summaries and important vocabulary at three different reading levels, as well a review of relevant legal concepts, diagram of how the case moved through the court system, and summary of the decision. This resource also includes six classroom-ready activities that teach about the case using interactive methods.
Tinker v. Des Moines (1969)
This case summary provides teachers with everything they need to teach about Tinker v. Des Moines (1969). It contains background information in the form of summaries and important vocabulary at three different reading levels, as well a review of relevant legal concepts, diagram of how the case moved through the court system, and summary of the decision. This resource also includes seven classroom-ready activities that teach about the case using interactive methods.
Boy Scouts of America v. Dale (2000)
Does a state law forbidding the Boy Scouts from discriminating against a gay scout leader offend rights to free speech and association? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered that question in 2000.
FEC v. Wisconsin Right to Life (2007)
Can the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act restrict issue ads from airing months before an election? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered that question in 2007.
Good News Club v. Milford Central School (2001)
Is a public school that refuses to let a religious club use its facilities violating the Free Speech Clause of the Constitution? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered that question in 2001.