BACKGROUND: For this assignment, you will be working in groups of TWO to analyze a case study regarding the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. Students will use their knowledge of the 1st Amendment, as well as additional research, as needed to answer a number of "Essential Questions" regarding their case.

MODELING: Mr. B. will be assisting students before this project by introducing a case study similar to those that will be used for this assignment. Students will be divided into two groups and given the background brief regarding the case. Students will have 20-30 minutes to do basic background research and analysis of the case with regards to the application of the Establishment Clause. At the end of background research time, Mr. B. will call witnesses in the case from each side of the argument. The discussion that follows will allow students to not only understand the required process for facilitating their own study groups, but will also deepen students understanding of the Establishment Clause.

THE CASES: Students will be given their cases by Mr. B. Each group will have a different case with a different set of Essential Questions to be answered.

HERE IS A LINK TO THE CASE STUDIES.

GROUP MEMBERS ASSIGNED TO EACH CASE ARE LISTED AT THE TOP OF EACH STUDY.

PLEASE READ AND ANALYZE ONLY YOUR OWN CASE!

THE QUESTIONS: Students will be complete their research and analysis and answer the Essential Questions in writing, using well-thought out paragraphs and proper sentences. Students should have a STRONG working knowledge of all applicable information in their case, including application of the Four Establish Clause Tests as outlined by the Supreme Court and HOW THEY APPLY TO YOUR CASE.

THE PRESENTATION: Students will be asked to present their case to the rest of the class in a manner that allows the other students to discuss both sides of the issue and then give opinions. Mr. B. has modelled a number of these "Case Study Debates" over the last week. A similar presentation would be acceptable, as would any other method of conveying case information and facilitating discussion on the part of the class.

When the case is over and the information has been presented, analyzed and discussed by the class, ALL class members will be responsible for answering the Essential Questions of the other cases in the class and turning them in for grading.