The Pentagon Goes to War on the Press (Again)

Lesson on Press Freedom, Government Secrecy, and the First Amendment Bring real-world relevance to your journalism or civics class with this powerful lesson on press freedom and government transparency. Using the current article “The Pentagon Goes to War on the Press (Again)”, students explore how the U.S. Department of Defense’s new media policy mirrors the historic Pentagon Papers case — and what it means for democracy today. This resource includes everything you need for a thoughtful, discussion-based lesson that connects current events to constitutional principles and journalistic ethics. What’s Included Full-Length Article:

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“The Pentagon Goes to War on the Press (Again)” Teacher Discussion Guide: Key background on the Pentagon Papers, prior restraint, and First Amendment law Student Worksheet: Comprehension, discussion, and writing prompts for classroom or homework use Extension Activities: Editorial writing, debate prompts, and historical comparisons Classroom Applications Use this lesson to: Launch a discussion on press freedom and government accountability Connect modern news controversies to the First Amendment Prepare students to analyze films like The Post or All the President’s Men Support units on media literacy, civics, U.S.

government, or journalism ethics Learning Objectives Students will: Explain the constitutional principles behind freedom of the press. Compare current Pentagon policies with the 1971 Pentagon Papers case. Evaluate how government secrecy impacts public understanding. Develop informed opinions on the limits (or necessity) of press freedom.

This lesson is part of the Press Freedom in Focus Bundle, which pairs this article and guide with the companion classroom video — two class periods of press freedom instruction in one purchase. Both are also part of the Journalism Ethics & Press Freedom Unit Bundle, which adds the You Be the Editor simulation, the RSF Webquest, and the Ethics Case Studies slideshow. Everything is included in the Complete High School Journalism Curriculum Bundle. If this resource saved you prep time, please leave a rating under My Purchases Provide Feedback. Every review earns you TpT Credits toward future purchases — roughly $1 in credits for every $10 reviewed.

Follow Starmaker English & Journalism Tools to be notified when new resources launch or go on sale. Product Details Format: Printable PDF Length: 12 pages (article, teacher guide, and student worksheet) Ideal for: Grades 9–12 Journalism, Civics, Government, or Media Literacy Estimated Time:

1–2 class periods

Designed for grades 9–12.

See it on Teachers Pay Teachers — $3.60