Copyright

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    What is Copyright?
    Copyright is a form of protection provided by the laws of the United States to the authors of “original works or authorship”.

    What is Fair Use?
    Fair Use is the right to use copyrighted material without permission or payment in certain circumstances, such as education.
     
    Is there a limit to the amount of music that can be used in a multimedia or video project?
    Up to 10% of one copyrighted music (song) may be reproduced, performed or displayed by an educator or student. See below for websites that allow music to be used with a multimedia presentation or contact the Instructional Media Specialist on your campus.
     
    Can you use videos as a reward or a rainy day activity?
    The video must be directly related to the curriculum that is currently being covered.  A video may never be used as a reward unless the school has purchased a Public Performance License.

    Can an article be copied for use by an entire class?
    Yes from legally acquired documents and must be needed immediately by a teacher (not a district directive).  Once the activity has been completed, all copies must be destroyed.

    Is it ok to make copies of consumable materials?
    No. All workbooks/consumable materials may only be used once.

    Can I play background music CDs during class?  How about the radio?
    Playing a CD in the classroom is considered public performance, therefore it is not allowable.  However, you may listen to a radio station.

    Can I record a book on a CD to place in my listening center?
    Unfortunately, this is a violation of copyright.

    Can I download or embed videos from YouTube?
    Videos that allow you the option of downloading or embedding may be utilized.  If the option is not available, then the video cannot be used.

    I would like to embed videos from World Book, Culture Grams and Discovery Streaming.  Is this allowable?
    Yes.  Because GPISD purchased subscriptions to these databases, use of the content is permissible.
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  • Copyright Resources

    Best Resources

    Music Copyright

    Other Resources

    Citation Resources
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