Fourth Amendment Overview

This lesson is designed to introduce students to the Fourth Amendment prohibition against "unreasonable searches and seizures." The goal is to provide students with an overview of the history of the Fourth Amendment, as well as an introduction to the warrant requirement and the concept of warrantless searches. The lesson is intended for students who have studied these issues in class, and wish to refine their knowledge.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the lesson, the student will be able to:

1. Quote the portion of the Fourth Amendment covering searches and seizures.
2. List the requirements for a warrant to be validly issued.
3. Explain the two predicate requirements for application of the Fourth Amendment.
4. Illustrate when governmental officials act reasonably in searching or seizing without a warrant.