Teacher Resources
Welcome to the First Amendment Academy: a dynamic learning hub where students, educators and lifelong learners can explore resources about core First Amendment concepts.
Download free, teacher-tested lesson plans on First Amendment topics, from media literacy to the five freedoms in action.
Lesson plans include a core question around which the materials revolve, plus interactive activities in which students apply concepts, reflections and checks for understanding. Each lesson plan includes key terms, primary sources and additional resources and is classroom-ready with teacher instruction sheets and handouts.
Lesson plans are currently available for grades 10-12.
Coming soon: additional versions of each plan, tailored for grades four through six and grades seven through nine
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.
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.
Media Literacy and the First Amendment
Students will learn what media literacy is and why it’s an important skill set. They’ll explore how the First Amendment protects Americans’ production and consumption of many forms of media. And they’ll practice using media literacy skills to identify and evaluate different types of content.
Freedom of Assembly
Students will learn about why freedom of assembly is important now and throughout U.S. history. They’ll explore the ways in which the government can restrict freedom of assembly, depending on where and when it occurs. And they’ll see examples of limits on assembly that violate First Amendment rights.
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.