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Lesson Plan
"Should private property owners be permitted to restrict Freedom of Expression?"
Purpose
The purpose of this lesson plan is to allow students to explore
whether the interests of private property owners outweigh those of
individuals when it comes to free speech rights.
Grade
9-12
Objectives
Students should be able to:
1. Identify relevant provisions of the U.S. Constitution and the Florida
Constitution
2. Explain how these provisions apply to this case
3. Identify examples or situations where the interests of property owners may collide with those of individuals
Materials
1. Text of the U.S. Constitution:
First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law ... abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
2. Text of the Florida Constitution:
Article I, Section 4: Freedom of Speech and Press: "Every person may speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects but shall be responsible for the abuse of that right. No law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press."
Article I, Section 23: Right of Privacy: "Every natural person has the right to be let alone and free from governmental intrusion into his private life except as otherwise provided herein."
3. ACLU Briefing Paper: Freedom of Expression
Activities
1. The teacher should moderate a discussion concerning the various different free speech outlets available to citizens of Florida.
2. Students will scour newspapers and magazine for articles that show examples of individuals participating in free speech activities such as political campaigns, gatherings, and organized demonstrations or protests. They will bring these materials to class and discuss where ? public or private -- these types of free speech activities are taking place. The teacher will make a list on the board of the different places where these types of free speech activities are taking place and then discuss:
a) what steps the individuals had to go through in order to organize
such activities
b) whether these activities would be considered legal or illegal under
state and federal Constitutions.
