Home > Courses Taught > Freedom of Expression 3070
Freedom of Expression
COURSE OBJECTIVES
This course examines the meaning, scope and challenge of “free expression"
in the American experience.
Beginning with the historical and philosophical roots
of the U.S. Constitution and the First Amendment,
students will critically examine
how the courts, writers, politicians, artists and social activists have interpreted
and applied
these rights to a number of controversial issues. Topics will include prior restraint, political and social commentary, artistic expression, symbolic speech, and the news media and the judiciary. Another goal of this course is to examine the deeper and richer question; what does it mean to be an American?
REQUIRED READINGS AND COURSE MATERIALS
Electronic Readings
There will be a set of electronic readings that will be assigned in this class.
The readings will be available in two formats: - E. Article listings available on-line
through the WMU library as well as direct website readings.
Course Pack - Power Point Presentations
A course pack containing a set of power point presentations will be available at
the university
book store representing the major presentations given in this class.
Notebook
A three ring binder -- with section tabs
Evaluation
There will be four exams. Each exam is worth 25% of your final grade
Grading Scale
| 93-100 A 87- 92 B/A 82- 86 B 76-81 C/B |
70-75 C 65-69 D/C 60-64 D -59 E |
Attendance
Very simply. Attendance makes a difference... You are permitted two excused absences - no questions asked.
Please use your excused absences carefully. Save them for personal or professional obligations. Any additional
absences
may result in a lowering of your final grade. Missed classes become especially important later in the
semester for purposes of establishing extra credit.
There will be 5 attendance checks throughout the semester.
Course Description and Outline
COM 3070 Registration for WMU Library E-Articles
Study Guide 1.