GED Social Studies TestCivics and GovernmentMedium
A state legislature passes a law that requires all public school students to recite a specific prayer at the beginning of each school day. A group of parents challenges this law, arguing that it violates their religious freedom. Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution would most likely be cited in their legal challenge?
- AFirst Amendment
- BFourth Amendment
- CTenth Amendment
- DFifth Amendment
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. First Amendment
The First Amendment guarantees freedom of religion and includes the Establishment Clause, which prohibits the government from establishing a religion or endorsing religious practices, such as mandatory prayer in public schools.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.
- C. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people.
- D. The Fifth Amendment deals with due process, self-incrimination, and double jeopardy.
First Amendment
The first amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects fundamental rights including freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and the right to petition the government.
- Includes the Establishment Clause (no government-established religion).
- Includes the Free Exercise Clause (freedom to practice religion).
- Guarantees freedom of expression.
- Applies to state governments via the 14th Amendment.
Memory trick: FREEDOM (First), DUE PROCESS (Fifth), STATES (Tenth)!