The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

Freedom of Religion:

• The government cannot force anyone to join or practice a religion.
• The government cannot prevent anyone from practicing a religion.

Freedom of Speech:

• Citizens of the United States are free to criticize the government.
• Citizens are free to express opinion based on their beliefs.
  

Freedom of the Press:

• The Congress cannot require a journalist or the media to have a license.
• All U.S. citizens have the right to print or publish.

Freedom of Assembly:

• Citizens of the United States have the freedom to gather in public places for meetings, for worship or to watch events as spectators.

Freedom to Petition:

• Citizens have the right to ask the government to change laws or practices.
• Citizens have the right to vote on petitions.

Can anything be limited?

Public schools can prevent expression if the expression would lead to a material and substantial disruption of the school day.

Schools can limit expressions that would interfere with teaching and learning.

Schools can limit expression that would prevent the school from functioning as a school.

What do you think?

How do you see the First Amendment as useful for journalists, TV newscasters, magazine editors and writers?

How do you see the First Amendment as useful for anyone?

How do you see the First Amendment as useful for 8th graders?

Is it fair that schools can limit expression?

Objectives:

Students will connect how the First Amendment affects them, by writing personal responses.
Social Studies Strand 1: Concept 4 PO4


Credit: Middle School Journalism - Semester 1, by Thomas J. Kaup and Dianne Smith published by TEACHINGpoint