Student Web Activity Lesson Plans

Chapter 13: Constitutional Freedoms

Introduction
In 1801, Thomas Jefferson supported potentially seditious speech, stating: "We have nothing to fear from the demoralizing reasonings of some, if others are left free to demonstrate their errors and especially when the law stands ready to punish the first criminal act produced by the false reasonings; these are safer corrections than the conscience of the judge." In a 1929 case, Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes wrote in a dissenting opinion, "[I]f there is any principle of the Constitution that more imperatively calls for attachment than any other it is the principle of free thought—not free thought for those who agree with us but freedom for the thought that we hate." Why would unpopular speech be so strenuously protected?

Lesson Description
Students will explore a Web site about the First Amendment. They will read a document and answer four questions about the interpretation and value of the freedom of speech. Students will then prioritize the most important reasons we need freedom of speech.

Instructional Objectives

Learners will identify the five freedoms outlined in the First Amendment.
Learners will comprehend the importance of freedom of speech.
Learners will evaluate the most important reason for freedom of speech.

Student Web Activity Answers

The First Amendment protects the freedoms of religion, speech, the press, assembly, and the right to petition the government.
Blackstone noted that words should not be censored, but that illegal actions resulting from those words could be punished.
Madison believed an amendment protecting free speech and press from state governments was most important. It became effective with the passage of the Fourteenth Amendment.
Freedom of speech allows people to vent instead of resorting to violence.
Answers will vary. The seven values listed on the Web site include: The Discovery of Truth, Facilitating Participation by Citizens in Political Decision-Making, Creating a More Adaptable and Stable Community (The "Safety Valve" Function), Assuring Individual Self-Fulfillment, Checking Abuse of Governmental Power, Promoting Tolerance, and Creating a More Robust and Interesting Community.