Copying in the Classroom
Back to Copyright Home
Multiple copies (not to exceed more than one copy per pupil in a course) may be made by or for the teacher giving the course for classroom use or discussion; provided that each copy includes a prominent copyright notice and the copying meets the following tests.
- Brevity
- Either (1) a complete article, story or essay of fewer than 2,500 words, or (2) an excerpt from any prose work of not more than 1,000 words or 10% of the work, whichever is less, but in any event a minimum of 500 words.
- A complete poem if fewer than 250 words and if printed on not more than two pages, or an excerpt of not more than 250 words.
- One chart, graph, diagram, drawing per book or periodical issue.
- Spontaneity
- The inspiration and decision to use the work and the moment of its use for maximum teaching effectiveness are so close in time that it would be unreasonable to expect a timely reply to a request for permission.
- Cumulative Effect
- The copying of the material is for only one course in the school in which copies are made.
- Not more than one short poem, article, story, essay or two excerpts may be copied from the same author, nor more than three from the same collective work or periodical volume during a term.
There shall not be more than nine instances of such multiple copying for one course during a term.
A course pack never falls within the Guidelines!
If your proposed use does not meet these rules of the Guidelines, conduct a regular fair use analysis.