Copyright and Fair Use

Objective

To dispel myths about copyright law. To make students aware of the consequences for copyright violations in their school work and their personal and professional lives.

"In today's permissive, non-judgemental society it seems as long as what you are doing doesn't hurt anyone, it is probably okay. Copyright infringement (copying movies or music off the Web) surely doesn't hurt anyone and, besides, those rock and rap stars and their recording companies have way too much money anyway...."

What you don't know can hurt you. Don't just "think" you know your rights. When it comes to the internet, make certain you KNOW your rights and your responsibilities.

Assignment 1

After completing the "Copyright and Fair Use Worksheet", create a 15 slide (minimum) presentation to illustrate your understanding of copyright.  Use the Copyright & Fair Use worksheet, rubric and the Video Rubric as a guide.  The video must contain all questions and answers to the questions to the Copyright and Fair Use Worksheet.  Include a title slide, a credits slide, music to compliment the video and interesting images to help illustrate your idea.

Assignment 2

Add a segment to your video that demonstrates your understanding of copyright infringement.  Using the Internet, search for court cases dealing in copyright infringement. Use a few slides to explain the case and the infringement, then enhance your slide with a few images to help visualize the the court findings, the infringement or the case (just have fun with this part). Include:   

• Names of the litigants
• Plaintiff
• Defendant 
• Points of contention
• The the courts decision on the case (what is the settlement)