This project is included in the Information Literacy & Digital Citizenship Unit Plan- Information Technology
Empower your students to become responsible digital citizens with this engaging, real-world copyright case study project. In this 3-day activity, students act as “digital detectives” to investigate a real-life incident involving copyright violation, plagiarism, or misuse of Creative Commons content.
 
Through research, analysis, reflection, and presentation, students learn how to ethically and legally utilize digital content while also developing communication, technical, and critical thinking skills. Whether it’s a YouTuber using unlicensed music or a brand copying an artist’s design, this project brings timely issues into the classroom in a student-friendly way.
 
What’s Included:
Editable 6-Part Project Slide Deck
Complete Teacher Instructions with 3-Day Pacing
Step-by-Step Student Prompts
Visual Presentation Guidelines
Real-World Case Ideas for Research
Printable/Editable Grading Rubric
 
Project Breakdown:
Part 1: Choose and outline a real-world copyright or plagiarism case
Part 2: Analyze what went wrong and why it matters
Part 3: Reflect on lessons learned and digital responsibility
Part 4: Build a slide presentation to share findings
Part 5: Follow design best practices for clear communication
Part 6: Present to classmates and engage in Q&A
 
Learning Objectives:
Identify and explain copyright, plagiarism, and Creative Commons rules
Evaluate ethical and legal implications of digital content use
Communicate case findings clearly through digital presentation
Reflect on personal digital habits and commit to ethical content use
Build awareness of how creators, students, and businesses are affected by misuse
 
Assessment:
Use the included rubric to evaluate:
Research quality and factual accuracy
Depth of analysis and reflection
Visual design and creativity
Presentation skills and peer engagement
Understanding of ethical digital behavior
 
Perfect For:
Digital Citizenship Units
Media & Technology Literacy
Business, STEM, or ELA Classes
Ethics & Digital Law Explorations
Group or Individual Work
 
Why Teachers Love It:
Real-World Relevance: Tackles issues students see online every day
Flexible & Engaging: Works in-person or digitally with real-world case options
No Prep Required: Includes everything you need—print or assign
High-Level Thinking: Combines research, ethics, and presentation skills
 
Empower your students to be competent, ethical, and confident creators and users of digital content. This case study project doesn’t just check the box—it builds meaningful, lasting awareness.