History has placed the stamp of approval on the publication of the Pentagon Papers, the top-secret history of the Vietnam War. If WikiLeaks editor-in-chief Julian Assange is another Daniel Ellsberg, then it is possible the website's disclosures will be viewed over time as similarly in the public interest. A classroom discussion on the release of…

Asserts that social studies teachers must combine individual rights and responsibilities when teaching citizenship. Contends democracy depends on citizenship literacy, or citizens who understand their First Amendment rights as well as their obligations. Stresses the importance of teaching students to think critically about their role as citizens.…

Since its founding more than 200 years ago, America has stood for the promise, if not always the practice, of freedom. On its best days, America is a nation committed to the revolutionary proposition that more freedom, not less, is the key to a vibrant, equitable, and secure democracy. However, the results of a recent national study, "The…

Reviews 10 resources on First Amendment issues and related social studies topics available from the Educational Resource Information Center (ERIC). Presents information pertinent both to the classroom teacher and to school administrators concerned about First Amendment issues. Gives annotated bibliographical information. (CH)

Traces the late-nineteenth-century movement to raise the U.S. flag at public schools, Americanize immigrant students, and inspire patriotism through flag exercises and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Identifies political opposition. Relates this history to the June 1989, Supreme Court decision, stating flag burning was protected under the…

Dissects features of the First Amendment, concentrating on freedom of religion, speech, and press clauses. Highlights the Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier case and its reverberations. Argues that, when school officials censor, students learn that government may censor. Suggests censorship is counterproductive to schools' mission to promote…

Observing that school official censorship often produces a sense of futility and resignation among students, criticizes recent student press censorship. Argues student experience of First Amendment freedoms is the best teacher of citizenship and democratic values. Contrasts instances of censorship to student press articles where First Amendment…

Presents three law-related education lesson plans discussing the relationship between church and state. The first two lessons, establishment of religion and free exercise of religion, culminate in the third, a round table discussion. The students research, role play, and argue hypothetical and real court cases. (MJP)