Civics and Citizenship

Mr. Gary 7B Civics

What you need to know!

• Standards• SS.7.C.2.1- Define the term Citizen. How do you legally become a

citizen?

• SS.7.C.2.2- What are the obligations and duties of a citizen?

Essential Question Essay

• Who is considered a citizen of the United States?

• How does one become a citizen of the United States?

• Explain the differences between an obligation and a responsibility.

• What are the steps to becoming a United States citizen?

• We will answer all these questions today!!

What is a citizen?

• A citizen is a legally recognized member of a nation.

• Law of Blood- Born to 2 US Citizens, you are a US Citizen.

• Law of Soil- Born on US soil, you are a US Citizen.

Natural Born v. Naturalized Citizens

Natural Born• Meet the law of Blood or

law of Soil criteria.• Born to 2 US parents

• Born on US Soil

Naturalized• Former Alien Resident

• One who has completed the Naturalization process

Naturalization Process

Requirements• 1. Must be 18yrs or older

• 2. Must be lawful permanent resident

• 3. Lived in the US for 5 years.

• 4. Be of Good Character

• 5. Be able to speak and read English

Take the Steps• 1. Complete an application

• 2. Pass a short test on US Gov’t and History

• 3.Swear an oath of allegiance to the United States in order to receive certificate of Naturalization, and you are DONE!!!!

Duties and Responsibilities

Duty- Must do it• Obey laws

• Pay taxes

• Attend School

• Defend Nation

Responsibility- should do it• Be involved in Community

• Vote

• Be informed about local, state, and National government