📚 Topic Summary
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees several fundamental rights, including freedom of religion and freedom of speech. Freedom of religion is composed of two clauses: the Establishment Clause, which prohibits the government from establishing a religion, and the Free Exercise Clause, which protects individuals' rights to practice their religion freely. Freedom of speech protects individuals' rights to express themselves without government interference, though this right is not absolute and is subject to certain limitations. Understanding these core tenets is crucial for success in AP Government and Civics.
This practice quiz will help you test your understanding of these vital principles. Let's get started!
🔤 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Establishment Clause |
A. Expression through actions that don't involve speaking or writing |
| 2. Free Exercise Clause |
B. Communication in the form of symbolic acts; protected under free speech |
| 3. Symbolic Speech |
C. Prevents the government from establishing an official religion |
| 4. Slander |
D. Protects individuals' right to practice their religion freely |
| 5. Expressive Conduct |
E. False and defamatory spoken statement |
(Answers: 1-C, 2-D, 3-B, 4-E, 5-A)
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
The First Amendment prevents Congress from making laws that abridge freedom of ____(1)____, or that prohibit the free exercise of ____(2)____. This includes protections for both spoken and ____(3)____ speech. However, these rights are not ____(4)____; for example, the government can restrict speech that incites ____(5)____.
(Answers: 1-speech, 2-religion, 3-symbolic, 4-absolute, 5-violence)
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine a scenario where a public school requires all students to participate in a non-denominational prayer at the start of each day. Discuss whether this violates the First Amendment, referencing specific clauses and relevant principles.