1. C1.1(1) What is “Civics”? What it means to be an American citizen Comes from Latin word “civis”: citizen “Civic Life” v. “Private Life” the public life of the citizen concerned with the affairs of the community and nation (CL) the personal life of the individual devoted to the pursuit of private interests. (PL)

2. C1.1(1) “Politics” the process by which a group of people reach collective decisions that are generally regarded as binding Seek the power to influence their government accomplish goals they could not realize as individuals “Government” The authority, or power, that rules on behalf of a group of people “Ideals” Beliefs that form the basis of a nation

3. C1.1(1) Some Important American Ideals Every young citizen should have the freedom to learn through free education Each person should be able to choose their job or career All equally qualified people should have an equal opportunity to secure a job We may not be arrested without just cause We may live as we wish, as long as we respect the rights of others "One person’s freedom ends where another person’s freedom begins“

4. C1.1(1) Why is the American Form of Government Unique? Government of the people, by the people, for the people “of” – all citizens can serve in government “by” – we created our form of government “for” – government exists to serve us, we do not exist to serve it

5. C1.1(1) We are an “Extended Limited Commercial Federal Democratic Republic” -James Madison, “The Federalist Papers” (1787-1788) “Extended” refers to geography — never before in history has there been a republic that covered so much territory. “Limited” means the Constitution clearly defines what the government can and cannot do. “Commercial” refers to our national character (not ruled by religion or the military) “Federal” means we have both state governments and a national government “Democratic” means all men and women are created equal “Republic” means as much power as possible is held by the people

6. C1.1(1) SUMMARY QUESTIONS 1.What Does Being an American Citizen Mean to You? 2.How Does Government Differ from Politics ? 3.What Are Some American Ideals You Disagree With? 4.Review What “Democratic” Means. Are We A Democratic Nation Today? 5.Refer to Madison’s Six Definitions of Who We Are in the Previous Slide. Which Of Those Appeals to You Most? Why?