Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier (1988)

Lesson Plan

This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court’s decision that established a school principal’s right to censor student articles in the school…

Overview

This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court’s decision that established a school principal’s right to censor student articles in the school newspaper. Students learn about the limits on student free speech in a school environment. Then they examine the issue of censorship and the reasons for imposing it.

Grade Levels

  • 6-8
  • 9-12

Learning Objectives

  • Describe the rights protected by the First Amendment
  • Identify the main arguments put forth in the case
  • Define censorship and identify examples of it
  • Describe the rationale behind the Supreme Court's decision
  • Identify the impact of the Supreme Court's decision on the issue of student expression at school and individuals' rights

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