Lesson Plan

The Freedom to Make a Change

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

As part of a study of the First Amendment, young historians research instances when individuals or groups used the First Amendment to change the United State's laws or policies. Teams are each assigned a different case study. With the help of "The Freedom to Make a Change" worksheet, they analyze their case study to determine which of the five freedoms was used, how it was used, and whether or not the individual or group in the case study was successful. After discussing their case with the whole class, groups reconvene and rewrite history by coming up with a revised plan that would have a better outcome.

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CCSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • As homework before the lesson, have class members review the "First Amendment Basics" handout
  • Project the sample worksheet as a model
Classroom Considerations
  • Groups need access to computers with internet
  • Requires copies of "The Freedom to Make a Change" worksheet and the "First Amendment Basics" handout
Pros
  • The 1963 March on Washington is used as an example
Cons
  • None