A Free Press
Students will learn how freedom of the press supports many types of content. They’ll explore key functions of the press as a check on the government and how technology has changed the way people consume media. They’ll practice identifying types of journalism based on each type’s approach and purpose.
Select grade level
Grades 10-12
Download lesson plan sources
Grades 7-9
Download lesson plan sources
Grades 4-6
Download lesson plan sources
Related resources
Article Library: Freedom of the Press
Explore our First Amendment article library
Who Is a Journalist? An Evolving Definition
The First Amendment protects freedom of the press but doesn’t specify who exactly "the press" is. What makes a journalist a journalist?
How to Write a Letter to the Editor: Examples, Tips and More
Put your press hat on and speak up about issues you care about by learning how to write a letter to the editor.
Arresting Journalists: A First Amendment Analysis
If the First Amendment protects freedom of the press, how can journalists be arrested? Here's everything to know.
Quiz: Learn About Freedom of the Press Like a Journalist
Freedom of the press protects news reporting, opinion journalism and investigative journalism. Put your skills to the test as a watchdog reporter facing real-world scenarios in this investigative reporting quiz.
Related lesson plans
The Five Freedoms in Action
Students will be introduced to the five freedoms of the First Amendment and see how these freedoms make possible many activities in daily life. They’ll gain an understanding of when and by whom the freedoms can be limited — and when limits would violate the First Amendment.
The State Action Doctrine and the First Amendment
Students will explore how the U.S. Supreme Court determines when the First Amendment applies and how the court’s rulings have refined this over time. They’ll learn how the First Amendment restricts the government and why it doesn’t typically apply to private actions.