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Learn how individuals become citizens, their rights, freedoms, and civic duties, and the importance of active participation in civic life.
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Unit 5 - Citizenship and Civic Life SOL - CE.3-4
I. How does an individual become a citizen? A. A citizen is an individual with certain rights and duties under a government and who, by birth or by choice, owes allegiance to that government.
B. The Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America defines citizenship as follows: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and the state wherein they reside.”
1. Means of obtaining citizenship: a. By birth
C. To become a citizen through naturalization, a person must: 1. Demonstrate knowledge of American history and principles
2. The ability to read, speak, and write words in ordinary usage in the English language.
D. Immigration and naturalization, particularly in the twentieth century, have led to an increasingly diverse society.
II. What fundamental rights and liberties are guaranteed in the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the Constitution of the United States of America?
A. The Constitution of the United States of America establishes and protects the citizens’ fundamental rights and liberties. 1. Few rights, if any, are considered absolute.
B. First Amendment freedoms 1. Religion: Government may not establish an official religion, endorse an official religion, or unduly interfere with the free exercise of religion.
3. Press: The press has the right to gather and publish information, including that which criticizes the government.
4. Petition: Individuals have the right to make their views known to public officials.
5. Speech: Individuals are free to express their opinions and beliefs.
C. Fourteenth Amendment 1. Extends the due process protection to actions of the states
2. Term to Know: Due Process – The government must treat its citizens fairly.
III. What civic duties are expected of all citizens? A. For government to be effective, citizens must fulfill their civic duties.
B. Duties of citizens: 1. Obey laws
C. Citizens who choose NOT to fulfill these civic duties face legal consequences.
IV. What are the ways individuals demonstrate responsible citizenship? A. A basic responsibility of citizenship is to contribute to the common good.
B. Civic responsibilities are fulfilled by choice; they are voluntary.
C. Responsibilities of citizens: 1. Register and vote
3. Communicate with government officials to influence government actions
D. A democratic society requires the active participation of its citizens.
V. In what ways do citizens participate in community service? A. Ways for citizens to participate in community service 1. Volunteer to support democratic institutions (e.g., League of Women Voters).
2. Express concern about the welfare of the community as a whole Example - Environment, Public health and safety, Education.
3. Help to make the community a good place to work and live Example - By becoming involved with public service organizations, Tutoring, Volunteering in nursing homes
VI. How do individuals demonstrate thoughtful and effective participation in civic life? A. Thoughtful and effective participation in civic life depends upon the exercise of good citizenship.
B. Personal traits of good citizens: 1. Trustworthiness and honesty
C. Effective participation in civic life can include: 1. Formulating questions
5. Practicing thoughtful decision making in personal, financial, and civic matters Example – Voting and Civic issues
