2007 FRQ #2

Post date: Apr 04, 2013 7:10:50 PM

2. The First Amendment includes two clauses relating to the freedom of religion. (2007)

(a) Select one of the following cases and identify the First Amendment clause upon which the United States Supreme Court based its decision. 

• • Engel v. Vitale (school prayer)

  • Lemon v. Kurtzman (state funding for private religious schools)

(b) Describe the Supreme Court's decision in the case that you selected in (a).

(c) Select one of the following cases and identify the First Amendment clause upon which the Supreme Court based its decision. 

• • Reynolds v. United States (polygamy)

  • Oregon v. Smith (drug use in religious ceremonies)

(d) Describe the Supreme Court's decision in the case that you selected in (c).

(e) Many of these decisions have caused controversy in the United States. Describe two ways in which other political institutions might limit the impact of Supreme Court decisions. 

To read a graded essay packet on this topic, click the following link: 2007 FRQ #2 Graded Essay Packet