September 11, 2001, Documentary Project
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Sending a Message
Americans use their First Amendment freedoms in a variety of ways. One way
is by sending messages through signs, placards, and even items of clothing.
Some such messages are designed to persuade, others to comfort, still others
to entertain or inform.
Examine the messages in the four pictures shown below. Then answer the questions
that follow.
)) Anybody Can Say "God Is On My Side" |
)) Love Your Enemy |
)) The Soldier |
)) Photo of Twin Towers With Note Left on Base of Lady Liberty |
- Who is the intended audience for each of these messages? Some possible audiences are the terrorists, average Americans, people directly affected by the attacks, the U.S. government, and people protesting government actions.
- Restate each message in your own words, keeping the intended audience in mind.
- Which of the messages do you agree with? Why? Which do you disagree with? Why?
- Create a sign or placard that expresses a message you would like to convey.
The focus should be on the events of September 11. Choose an audience and
craft your message for that audience.