In this lesson, students will read about a Kansas child involved in a famous United States Supreme Court case. They will think critically to form opinions about equality, segregation, and integration, and will distinguish between fact and opinion.
The First Amendment: What’s Fair in a Free Country?
Young people have a profound sense of the importance of fairness. “It’s not fair” is often used as a one-size-fits-all argument when a child feels victimized. In situations where the child has an interest in protecting his or her actions, “It’s a free country!” is often the argument of choice. On the other hand, children are very sensitive about speech and policies they consider to have a negative effect on their well-being.
Balancing rights and responsibilities is difficult, even for the Supreme Court. This lesson demonstrates to students that doctrine of freedom of speech and its proper application is an ongoing process.
Wisconsin v. Yoder (1972)
Under what conditions does the state’s interest in promoting compulsory education override parents’ First Amendment right to free exercise of religion? This resource is a case summary of Wisconsin v. Yoder, which tested the right of parents to withdraw their child from school for religious reasons.
Kennedy v. Louisiana (2008)
Do states violate the Eighth Amendment’s ban on cruel and unusual punishment by imposing the death sentence for the crime of child rape? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered that question in 2008.
Pathways to the Bench: Hispanic Heritage Month
The federal courts honor Hispanic Heritage Month, which is observed from September 15 to October 15, by recognizing individuals who have made contributions to our country and inspire others to succeed. U.S. Magistrate Judge Maria G. Valdez, of the Illinois Northern District Court in Chicago, advises others who face challenges to keep going even when they don’t think they can succeed.
Troxel v. Granville (2000)
Is a Washington state law that allows any third party to petition for child visitation rights over parental objections constitutional? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 2000.