Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship 8 28 Describe

Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship 8. 28 Describe the significance of the Magna Carta, the English Bill of Rights, and the Mayflower Compact in relation to the development of government in America. (C, H, P) 8. 33 Describe the principles embedded in the Constitution, including the purposes of government listed in the Preamble, separation of powers, check and balances, the amendment process, federalism, and recognition of and protections of individual rights in the Bill of Rights. (P)

Becoming an American Citizen 1 of 3 requirements: • You were born in the USA or have at least one parent who is a citizen of the USA • You were naturalized • You were 18 years old or younger when your parents were naturalized (live in USA 5 years, apply for citizenship, citizenship examination and series of interviews, then take oath) Cannot serve as President or Vice-President

Rights of a Citizen • • • Bill of Rights Right to Worship as you please Express your opinion Consult attorney if you are arrested Other rights : Education

Responsibilities of Citizens MUST: • Obey federal, state and local laws • Pay their fair share of taxes • Serve on juries if called • Defend the nation if called Citizens SHOULD: • Vote in federal, state, and local elections • Stay informed on important issues • Serve the community • Help to create a just society

Citizens can: participate in the political process through interest groups (American Association of Retired Persons, National Rifle Association, Sierra Club) Young people can help, volunteer and support their community as well