Student Free Speech – Legal Precedents Worksheet

1. You will be assigned to one of two legal teams. Team 1: Respondents (School's Lawyers) or Team 2:
Petitioners (Students' Lawyers).
2. Read the Fictional Case (Web view).
3. Use the attached worksheet to track
a. Facts from the Fictional Case that will help you form arguments in favor of your client
b. Facts and decisions from the 3 Precedential Cases Cases: Student Right to Free Speech
(Web view) that will help you form arguments for your client.
4. Write arguments (claim+evidence) that you will read to the judges.
5. After the role-playing trial, answer the questions for reflection.

Case Facts, Decisions, Precedents

Fictional Case
Tinker v. Des Moines
Hazelwood v. Kuhlemeier
Morse v. Frederick

Arguments:

Questions for Reflection:

1. Why is it important for courts to follow precedents when making decisions?

2. To what extent should schools be allowed to limit free speech of students for the sake of
ensuring a safe learning environment?