When does freedom of the press end and national security begin? Learners research the idea of the freedom of the press under the First Amendment in the United States government and politics. They view the 26th lesson of a 50-part unit, forming thoughts and opinions on what exactly the media is allowed to do in an open and free society. To better understand the issue, pupils examine and analyze the key concept surrounding freedom of speech and press in the United States. 

Concepts

the united states government, american politics, freedom of the press, the first amendment

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Extend the lesson with a reading on journalists who have had freedom of the press trouble in other nations around the world 
• Invite a local journalist to speak about the First Amendment and how it impacts the profession

Classroom Considerations

• Requires Internet access if assigning as homework

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Thought Bubble animates the key concept for visual learners
• Introduces primary source quotes and court cases for future research

Cons

• None

Common Core

RH.9-10.1 RH.9-10.2 RH.9-10.3 RH.11-12.1 RH.11-12.2 RH.11-12.3