Final answer:
Under copyright law, a teacher can use copyrighted materials in class within certain guidelines. Scenarios such as making copies of songs for educational use or copying a poem for class discussion can qualify for 'fair use.' However, permissions should be sought when in doubt, and plagiarism avoided.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a teacher wants to use copyrighted materials in class, there are specific copyright laws they need to adhere to. According to the U.S. Copyright Office, copyright is a legal protection for 'original works of authorship' that includes a wide array of creative works. This protection lasts for the lifetime of the author plus 70 years after their death. It is important to note that no one can reproduce, perform, or display a copyrighted work without permission from the copyright holder, except under certain circumstances such as 'fair use' in education.
Considering the scenarios presented:
- A teacher making 25 copies of a compilation of songs for class practice and performance might fall under 'fair use' if for educational purposes and without any commercial gain. However, this is a gray area and depends on factors such as the amount of work used and the effect on the market.
- Copying a short story from a book for each student may be permissible under 'fair use' if it is for educational purposes, not for profit, and does not replace the purchase of the book.
- A teacher copying a poem to be displayed and discussed in class is typically allowed under 'fair use' for educational purposes, provided the poem is a small enough portion of the copyrighted work and does not harm the market value of the original work.
In any case, plagiarism, or the act of passing off someone else's work as one's own, can have serious consequences and must be avoided. It is advisable for educators to always seek the appropriate permissions or licenses where there is uncertainty regarding the application of 'fair use'.