What is intellectual property?
Intellectual property (IP) means things made with the mind: drawings, stories, songs, photos, inventions, brand names. Just as you own a bicycle, a maker owns what they create. The person who creates it is called the creator or maker.
Copyright: the maker's right
Copyright protects creative works such as paintings, writing, music, films and photos. In most countries it starts automatically when the work is made. The owner can say who may copy it, show it or sell it. It lasts for a long time, often the whole life of the maker and many years after. Other kinds of IP include patents (new inventions) and trademarks (logos and brand names).
Asking permission, and credit
To use someone else's work you usually need permission (a licence). Some makers share their work freely with simple rules, for example "free to use if you give my name". Always credit the maker: write their name and where it came from. Small quotes for study or review may be allowed in some countries, but check the local rule or ask a teacher.
Portrait rights
A portrait right protects a person's own face and image. Even if you took the photo, a clear photo of a person should not be published or sold without their agreement (consent). For children, ask a parent or guardian. Photos of crowds in a public place are treated differently in different countries, so be careful.
Try it
In the last 3D step, tick "I made it", "Shows a person's face" and "I have permission" in different ways. Find all the combinations that give a green light. At home, make a small card for your own drawing: write your name, the year and "Please ask before copying".
Key formulas and definitions
- Key term: copyright = the maker's right to control copying and use
- Key term: licence = permission to use a work on agreed terms
- Key term: consent = a clear yes from the person in the photo
- Rule: someone else's work OR a real face → ask first
Worked examples
1. You drew a cartoon. A friend wants to print it on T-shirts to sell. What should happen?
You own the copyright, so your friend must ask you first. You can say yes (maybe for a share of the money) or no.
2. You found a nice photo online and want it in your school poster. What should you do?
Check who made it and whether they allow use. If not clear, ask the maker or choose a picture that is free to use. Always credit the maker.
3. You took a close photo of a classmate and want to post it publicly. What is needed?
Her consent (and her parent's if she is a child). It is her portrait right.
4. You paint your own tree and show it to the class. Do you need permission from anyone?
No. It is your own work and has no one else's face. You can share it.
Common mistakes
- Thinking everything on the internet is free to use.
- Thinking copyright needs a form or a symbol. In most countries it starts automatically.
- Giving credit but not asking, when permission is needed.
- Posting a friend's face because "it is only a photo".