Download the American Government textbook (PDF version) (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. to view the page numbers, which you need to cite in your response to the below prompt. You will not see page numbers if you just view the book online.

This is a two step prompt: First, using Chapter 4 of the American Government textbook, explain which key restrictions limit our ability to speak or publish opinions under certain circumstances. Second, using the Oyez audio file and transcript (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. (go to "Opinion Announcement," which is a seven minute audio clip on the court's decision on the Snyder v. Phelps case), briefly summarize the facts of the Snyder v. Phelps (2011) case. By using facts presented, clearly explain why the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Westboro Baptist Church. Then, tell us why you agree/disagree with the Court’s decision.

Initial post is due Thursday; 2 follow-ups are due by Sunday. No posts will be accepted after Sunday.

Support your statements by bringing in and explaining the definitions and examples in the text. *In all discussions, make sure to cite which pages you are referencing. For example, "According to page 26…." or "The author states that the political process matters because… (pg. 26)."

For tips on how to earn as many points as possible on discussions and to see samples, check out Tips for Discussions & Sample Posts. To view a tutorial on how to find the rubric (which you should read before you submit), watch the following video:

How to find rubrics (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.

Download the American Government textbook (PDF version) (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. to view the page numbers, which you need to cite in your response to the below prompt. You will not see page numbers if you just view the book online.

Choose either Prompt A or Prompt B. Before you respond, make it clear which prompt you are choosing.

Prompt A: Using Chapter 5 of the American Government textbook, explain and give examples of rational basis test, intermediate scrutiny, and strict scrutiny. Of the examples, which one do you find most questionable and why.

Prompt B: Using Chapter 5 of the American Government textbook, choose one of the following: 1) Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka (1954), 2) Equal Rights Amendment (1970s), 3) Obergefell v. Hodges (2015)*. Summarize the background/details of your case (or proposed amendment if you choose the ERA). Then share your thoughts/opinions on the court's decision (or fate of the ERA). What do you find most interesting/surprising about the background of the case and/or the final outcome/decision? Be sure to thoroughly explain your answer.

*If you choose Obergefell, you will need to read the "Syllabus" and "Opinion of the Court" (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. since this case is not thoroughly discussed in our text. Be sure to refer to either the Syllabus or Opinion when you are writing your initial post.

Initial post is due Thursday; 2 follow-ups are due by Sunday. No posts will be accepted after Sunday.

Support your statements by bringing in and explaining the definitions and examples in the text. *In all discussions, make sure to cite which pages you are referencing. For example, "According to page 26…." or "The author states that the political process matters because… (pg. 26)."

For tips on how to earn as many points as possible on discussions and to see samples, check out Tips for Discussions & Sample Posts. To view a tutorial on how to find the rubric (which you should read before you submit), watch the following video:

How to find rubrics (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.