Unit 3 First Amendment — Freedom of Religion

First Amendment — Freedom of Religion

What two religious freedoms does the First Amendment protect?

The establishment clause and the free exercise clause.

What does the establishment clause prohibit?

Government establishment or endorsement of religion.

What does the free exercise clause protect?

The right to practice religion.

What is separation of church and state?

The principle that government and religious institutions should remain separate.

What did Engel v. Vitale (1962) decide?

State-sponsored prayer in public schools violates the establishment clause.

Why was school-sponsored prayer unconstitutional in Engel?

Government cannot officially promote religious activities.

What did Wisconsin v. Yoder (1972) decide?

Amish parents could remove their children from formal schooling after eighth grade for religious reasons.

Which clause was central to Wisconsin v. Yoder?

The free exercise clause.

What did Lemon v. Kurtzman (1971) address?

Excessive entanglement between government and religion.

What were the three parts of the Lemon test?

Secular purpose

Can students privately pray in public schools?

Yes

Why are public school teachers restricted from leading official prayers?

They act as government employees.

What is a key difference between Engel and Yoder?

Engel limits government promotion of religion; Yoder protects religious practice.

Why must government balance religious freedom with other rights?

Religious practices can conflict with laws and other people's rights.

What constitutional principle connects Engel and Yoder?

The First Amendment protects religious liberty.