Activity Overview
For this activity, students will create scenarios when the protections of the First Amendment are allowed in the classroom and when the First Amendment is not allowed. For each scenario, students are to define which 1st Amendment freedom they are going to visualize, create a visual representation, and then explain in the space below why the action is or is not protected by the First Amendment.
The key teaching point of this activity should be centered around the concept of an action “being disruptive to the educational environment.” Teachers should discuss this concept with their students prior to the assignment. Teachers should show historic examples of silent protests/symbolic speech so students can understand how speech and protests does not always include yelling, shouting, or even sound at all.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard illustrating protest scenarios that are protected by the 1st amendment and which are not within the classroom.
Student Instructions
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the freedoms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, explain why the action is or isn't protected.
- Create a visualization for each using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
For this activity, students will create scenarios when the protections of the First Amendment are allowed in the classroom and when the First Amendment is not allowed. For each scenario, students are to define which 1st Amendment freedom they are going to visualize, create a visual representation, and then explain in the space below why the action is or is not protected by the First Amendment.
The key teaching point of this activity should be centered around the concept of an action “being disruptive to the educational environment.” Teachers should discuss this concept with their students prior to the assignment. Teachers should show historic examples of silent protests/symbolic speech so students can understand how speech and protests does not always include yelling, shouting, or even sound at all.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard illustrating protest scenarios that are protected by the 1st amendment and which are not within the classroom.
Student Instructions
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the freedoms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, explain why the action is or isn't protected.
- Create a visualization for each using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Identifying First Amendment Protections in School
How to facilitate respectful classroom discussions about First Amendment rights
Set clear discussion norms before starting. Explain to students that everyone’s opinion matters and respectful listening is essential. Model how to disagree politely and encourage open-mindedness during conversations about sensitive topics.
Prompt students to share real-world examples
Encourage students to bring in news stories or personal experiences related to First Amendment rights. Use these examples to connect classroom learning to real life, making discussions more relevant and engaging.
Use think-pair-share to build confidence
Ask students to reflect individually, then discuss their ideas with a partner before sharing with the whole class. This strategy helps quieter students participate and builds a safe space for expression.
Guide students in analyzing multiple perspectives
Present scenarios with differing viewpoints and encourage students to consider each side. Foster empathy by having students explain positions they may not personally hold, deepening their understanding of First Amendment complexities.
Debrief and reflect as a class
Close discussions by inviting students to share what they learned or how their views changed. Reflection helps consolidate understanding and reinforces respectful dialogue as a classroom norm.
Frequently Asked Questions about Identifying First Amendment Protections in School
What First Amendment rights do students have in the classroom?
Students have First Amendment rights such as freedom of speech, expression, and religion in school, but these rights can be limited if the actions are disruptive to the educational environment or interfere with teaching and learning.
When is student speech not protected by the First Amendment at school?
Student speech is not protected if it is disruptive, promotes illegal activity, is obscene, or infringes on others’ rights. Schools can restrict speech that interrupts classes or creates safety concerns.
How can I teach students about disruptive speech versus protected speech?
Use scenario-based activities and discuss examples like silent protests or symbolic speech. Help students distinguish between protected expression and actions that disrupt the classroom using historic court cases and visual storyboards.
What are some examples of symbolic speech in schools?
Symbolic speech examples include wearing armbands, silent protests, or displaying signs. These actions are generally protected as long as they are not disruptive to the learning environment.
What is the impact of Tinker v. Des Moines on student rights?
Tinker v. Des Moines established that students do not lose First Amendment rights at school, but schools can limit speech if it materially disrupts classwork or discipline.
More Storyboard That Activities
Tinker vs. Des Moines
Testimonials
“By using the product, they were so excited and they learned so much...”–K-5 Librarian and Instructinal Technology Teacher
“I'm doing a Napoleon timeline and I'm having [students] determine whether or not Napoleon was a good guy or a bad guy or somewhere in between.”–History and Special Ed Teacher
“Students get to be creative with Storyboard That and there's so many visuals for them to pick from... It makes it really accessible for all students in the class.”–Third Grade Teacher
© 2025 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
