PRESENTATION OUTLINE
The 1st ammendment- states that Congress shall make no law preventing the establishment of religion or prohibiting its free exercise. Also protected are freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, and the right to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
The 2nd ammnedment- protects citizen's right to bear arms.
prevents the government from placing troops in private homes. This was a real problem during the American Revolutionary War.
The Fourth Amendment - this amendment prevents the government from unreasonable search and seizure of the property of US citizens. It requires the government to have a warrant that was issued by a judge and based on probable cause.
The Fifth Amendment - The Fifth Amendment is famous for people saying "I'll take the Fifth". This gives people the right to choose not to testify in court if they feel their own testimony will incriminate themselves.
The Sixth Amendment - guarantees a speedy trial by a jury of one's peers. Also, people accused are to be informed of the crimes with which they are charged and have the right to confront the witnesses brought by the government. The amendment also provides the accused the right to compel testimony from witnesses, and to legal representation (meaning the government has to provide a lawyer).
The Seventh Amendment - provides that civil cases also be tried by jury.
The 8th ammendment- prohibits excessive bail, excessive fines, and cruel and unusual punishments.
The 9th ammendment- states that the list of rights described in the Constitution is not exhaustive, and that the people still have all the rights that are not listed.
The Tenth Amendment - gives all powers not specifically given to the United States government in the Constitution, to either the states or to the people.