Promise of America PBL
by Lucine Devejian and Mary Grace Schayot
Bill of Rights
- freedom of religion
- freedom of assembly
- freedom of press
- freedom of petition
- freedom of speech
- right to bear arms
- no quartering of troops
- no unreasonable search and seizure
- due process of law
- right to a speedy and public trial
- right to trial by jury
- no cruel and unusual punishment
- constitutional rights do not deny other rights
- any power not given to the federal government is given to the states
The Bill of Rights protects the unalienable rights that are given to every citizen.
With these rights defended, citizens can be assured that they can share their beliefs freely every day.
Responsible Citizenship
Examples of being a responsible citizen include:
- supporting and defending the Constitution
- obeying the law
- serving on a jury
- paying taxes
- voting
- serving your community
- staying informed on what is happening in your community
- respecting others
- having good moral character
Being a responsible citizen is important because we as citizens need to give back to the government since they gave us rights. It's a trade; the government gives us rights and we give back by being responsible citizens.
Naturalization Process
Be a person of good moral character.
Be able to speak, read, write and understand basic English (age exemptions may apply for those who qualify).
Have basic knowledge of United States history, government, and civics
Be willing to take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
Be at least 18 years old.
Have been a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years, OR be a Lawful Permanent Resident for at least 3 years if married to and living with your U.S. Citizen spouse.
Have been physically present in the United States for at least 1/2 of the time (30 months) during the last 5 years.
Not have left the U.S. for long periods of time during the past 5 years
Have residence in the district where you are applying for at least 3 months.
The steps to becoming a naturalized citizen include:
Finding out if you are eligible
Overcome barriers to your ineligibility
File USCIS form N-400
Get fingerprinted
Attend a citizenship interview
Attend the oath ceremony
We think the reason that the process and the criteria are required for people to become US citizens is because we need a way for us to make sure that people in our country are good and trustworthy people. If we didn't have that, there would be disloyal people living in the United States.