Title: First Amendment Lesson Plan: Religion in public schools | The Free Speech Center
Headings: First Amendment Lesson Plan: Religion in public schools
First Amendment Lesson Plan: Religion in public schools
Content: The first religion clause says government and its agencies are prohibited from establishing or requiring religion, including official attempts to impose or instill beliefs in students. This prohibition prevents government from setting up a national religion, and from favoring one religion over another. Therefore, prayers may not be broadcast over the school public-address system. (Situation B.) Under the “free exercise” clause of the First Amendment, and in line with U.S. Supreme Court rulings, public schools may not prevent students from expressing or sharing religious beliefs, as long as their doing so does not disrupt the school. The second religion clause says government and its agencies may not forbid or interfere with individuals’ practice of religion. Public school students therefore may pray, alone or in groups, silently or aloud, as long as classes and non-participating students are not disturbed. Students may bring religious texts to school and read and discuss them. Time period
One class period. Procedure
Present the two religion clauses in the First Amendment and ask students to offer examples of how religious liberty might be infringed by government, be it federal, state or local. Then present the two hypothetical situations and invite the class to contrast the actions of school officials.