MMC4200 Discussion 1 & Module Commentary

Discussion 1: The Fundamentals of the U.S. Media Law

After acquiring the textbook, start reading and commenting on Chapters 1 and 3. Tell me what you think is most important about the first few chapters and why. In other words, what stands out to you from these readings? Your responses over the next two weeks and, most importantly, your essay in the Assignments tab (see Module 1 Commentary), due Tuesday, January 24 at 11:59, are worth 10 points.

I look forward to your feedback (at least two on each module) and your comment on the Assignments tab.

Module 1 Commentary

In 250-300 words, explain which source of law you consider most important, if any. Be sure to explain why. Use Chapter 1, The Law in Modern Society, to answer this question.

Indicate the "word count" at the end of your comment.

Rubric

Instructor's Rubric, 10 Points

Criteria Ratings Pt s

This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome

Quality of Writing

Thoughtful and polished writing, without grammatical errors.

3 pts

Fu ll M ar ks

0 pt s

No M ar ks

3 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome

Demonstration of knowledge

The answer is based on textbook reading or other legally reliable information.

3 p t s

F u ll M a r k s

0 p t s

N o M a r k s

3 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome

Critical Thinking or Interpretation

The student engages in or strives to offer a critical analysis or personal interpretation of the assigned material that is likely to generate discussion.

4 p t s

F u l l M a r k s

0 p t s

N o M a r k s

4 pts

Total Points: 10

Module 1: Basics of the U.S. Legal System

In this module, we will identify the sources and types of U.S. law, namely constitutional, statutory, administrative, common, equity, and international law, which prevail in most, if not all, countries of the world. Next, we will learn about the structure and main characteristics of the U.S. legal system.

Unit-Level Content:

● Law and ethics in context. ● The sources of law. ● The U.S. legal system.

Unit Objectives:

● Identify the six sources of law. ● Explain the U.S. judicial structure and process. ● List the main types of federal and state courts.

Tasks:

● Review the First Amendment Timeline (Free Speech Center, MTSU). See also The First Amendment Chronology

● Links to an external site. ● . ● Read Schenck v. the United States. The earliest best known U.S. Supreme Court case

about freedom of speech/press (go to findlaw.com Year 1919). ● Read What is Communication Law ● Links to an external site. ● (BarMax Exam Review Course).

Resources:

● Textbook, W. W. Hopkins (Ed.). ● Syllabus (Chapter 1, pp. 1-22; Chapter 3, pp. 35-46). ● CANVAS platform (e.g. see Discussions/Assignments in navigation bar). ● BarMax (Bar Exam Review Company). ● Findlaw.com

Learning Activity:

● Read chapters 1 and 3 to participate knowledgeably. ● Make notes/flashcards to retain technical legal language.