Lesson
Why is Free Speech Essential to Self-Government?
America's Founders recognized the necessity of vigorous public debate and enshrined the right to speak freely in the Bill of Rights. This component of the Constitution protects a wide range of speech, including speech we might find disagreeable. While the First Amendment's primary purpose was to protect political speech, its protections do have limits. This lesson explores this essential principle of free speech.
Founding Principles
Civil Discourse, Freedom of Speech, Individual Responsibility, Liberty
Virtues
Objectives
- Students will explain the reasons why free speech is essential to self-government and promotes a peaceful and stable society.
- Students will articulate the importance/meaning of the First Amendment.
- Students will understand the distinctions between protected and unprotected speech.
- Students will evaluate the ways free speech is important in their own lives.
- Students will appreciate the First Amendment’s protection of free speech.
Materials
Lesson Components
Lesson plan
90 minClick a phase to open it
Standards
Advanced Placement
- NCHS
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