We The People Civics in Our Lives

Civics is the study of what it means to be a citizen

Citizen is a legal member of the country

Government is the political unit which has authority over a group of people

I. The Meaning of Civics a. Civics is the study of what it means to be a citizen b. Citizen is a legal member of the country c. Government is the political unit which has authority over a group of people

Freedom & Equality are a U.S. citizens guaranteed rights and freedoms Freedom is the right to enjoy all the privileges or special rights of citizenship without restraint or control. Equality is when each person has likeness or sameness in quality, power, status, or degree.

Rights & Freedoms are protected by laws and exist for any citizen who follows the laws

II. American Ideals a. Freedom & Equality are a U.S. citizens guaranteed rights and freedoms b. Rights & Freedoms are protected by laws and exist for any citizen who follows the laws

Our state and local governments provide free school for young citizens

U.S. law guarantees that all persons who are qualified for a job have an equal opportunity to secure it

U.S. Citizens are free to: own a house, raise a family, choose a religion, start a business, travel, speak what you wish — as long as you don’t hurt others.

III. A Heritage of Freedom a. Our state and local governments provide free school for young citizens b. U.S. law guarantees that all persons who are qualified for a job have an equal opportunity to secure it c. U.S. Citizens are free to: own a house, raise a family, choose a religion, start a business, travel, speak what you wish — as long as you don’t hurt others.

IV. A Government by the People The people rule the country through the leaders they elect

Voting in elections is one of the most important duties you have as a U.S. citizen

Citizens should inform officials of their opinions

Citizens should educate themselves about government

IV. A Government by the People a. The people rule the country through the leaders they elect b. Voting in elections is one of the most important duties you have as a U.S. citizen i. Citizens should inform officials of their opinions ii. Citizens should educate themselves about government

Qualities of a Good Citizen A. Responsible family members

Respect & obey all laws

Respect individuals and their rights

Participate in community & government

Qualities of a Good Citizen a. Responsible family members b. Respect & obey all laws c. Respect individuals and their rights d. Participate in community & government

Being a responsible citizen requires studying American civics

VI. The Importance of Civics a. Being a responsible citizen requires studying American civics