Freedom of Speech?

A famous Supreme Court case is Tinker v. Des Moines Independent School District, from 1969. Read the background of the case and the Supreme Court's ruling, then discuss your thoughts and ideas about the case and the ruling. Do you agree or disagree with the court's decision? Why or why not?

Background
In December 1965, John and Mary Beth Tinker and their friend Chris Eckhardt wore black armbands to school in to protest the war in Vietnam. School officials told them to remove the armbands, and when they refused, they were suspended. With their parents, they sued the school district, claiming a violation of their First Amendment right of freedom of speech. Ruling
The Supreme Court sided with the students. Students and teachers still have their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the school, the Court said. The Court did not, however, grant students an unlimited right to self-expression. It said First Amendment guarantees must be balanced against a school's need to keep order: As long as an act of expression doesn't disrupt classwork or school activities, or invade the rights of others, it's acceptable. Regarding the students in this case, they only were wearing a black armband and weren't causing any disruptions or invading the rights of others. They caused discussion outside of the classrooms, but no interference with work and no disorder.

Magical Rainbow

On the way to school you see a rainbow. When you touch it, you suddenly find yourself in a magical world. Describe this world and tell what you do there.

Einstein's Birthday

The scientist Albert Einstein was born on March 14, 1879 in Germany. At an early age, Einstein showed a great interest in math and science. He built models and mechanical devices for fun and began to show a talent for mathematics. Einstein is widely regarded as one of the most influential and best known scientists and intellectuals of all time. He is often regarded as the father of modern physics. Einstein received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921.

• How and why is math important to everyday life and jobs?

The Telephone

The inventor Alexander Graham Bell was born on March 3, 1847 in Edinburgh, Scotland. He is best known for his development of the telephone. Alexander Graham Bell's mother and wife were deaf, and this influenced his life's work. His research on hearing and speech led him to experiment with hearing devices. Alexander Graham Bell was awarded the first U.S. patent for the telephone in 1876.

Describe how life would be different if telephones had never been invented

President's Day

Presidents' Day is celebrated on the third Monday in February. Presidents' Day is intended to honor all of the American presidents, but most significantly George Washington, who was born on February 22, and Abraham Lincoln, who was born on February 12

Imagine you have been chosen to interview President Obama. Plan your interview by writing down 10 questions that you would like to ask the President.

What is love?

What is love? How do you know someone loves you? What's a specific example you've seen of love?

Please write five thoughtful sentences about love and examples of love you've seen. Remember to use complete sentences and proper spelling and grammar.

Inventor's Day

In recognition of the great contributions that inventors have made to the world, National Inventors Day is celebrated on February 11. This date was chosen because Thomas Edison was born on February 11, 1847. Thomas Edison was an American inventor, scientist, and businessman and is known as one of the most prolific inventors of all time. Edison invented more than 1,200 items, including the light bulb and phonograph.

What do you think is the most important invention of all time? Why? (remember to write at least 5 thoughtful sentences)