A. Speaking the Truth. Use what you learned in the reading to decide which statements are true. Place a T
next to the statement you think is true and an F next to those you think are false.
2. ____ Private companies like social media platforms can’t limit the free speech of the people who use
their products.
3. ____ You have the right to refuse to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at school.
4. ____ Today, the First Amendment applies to the federal, state, and local governments.
5. ____ The First Amendment has been interpreted to mean the government can never pass laws that
limit speech in any way.
6. ____ The American colonies invented the idea of free speech.
7. ____ Speech that starts a riot or makes a serious threat of violence is not protected by the First
Amendment.
A. ____ when sexist or racist comments are posted
about other students
B. ____ when students criticize the administration
and its decisions
C. ____ when students demean or make fun of a
teacher
D. ____ when students post photos or
videos of other students that are revealing
E. ____ when students spread hurtful lies and
rumors about other students
F. ____ when students spread hurtful lies and
rumors about teachers
G. ____ when students post altered photos to create
rude images of students or teachers
H. ____ when students cyberbully other
students
Give the reasons for one of your answers.
Legal Reference Sheet
When do you think it’s appropriate for school to punish students for their online speech?
1. ____ The right of free speech means you can say anything you want, whenever you want
F
The First Amendment does not mean you can say anything you want whenever you want. There are limitations to free speech, such as speech that incites violence or hate speech. Students can be punished for their online speech when it falls under these categories, such as cyberbullying or making serious threats.