Week 7 – Tuesday, Summer 2020

Civics and Reading

The constitution defines the government for all Americans. We don’t have any kings, queens, or nobility. Everyone must follow the law.

What about teachers? They must follow the law.

What about governors? They must follow the law.

What about presidents? They must follow the law.

What is the “rule of law”? –> Everyone must follow the law.

The constitution was written in 1787. It had many problems.

For example, in 1787, women could not vote. In 1787, white men could own slaves. In 1787, Native Americans had no rights.

Congress and the states can change the constitution, but it is not easy. This change to the constitution is called an amendment.

What is an amendment? –> A change (to the constitution)

Congress and the states have only changed the Constitution 27 times.

How many amendments does the Constitution have? –> 27

In 1789, Congress made 10 amendments to the Constitution. This list of amendments was called a bill. These first 10 amendments give us really important rights. So, we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution the Bill of Rights.

What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution? –> The Bill of Rights

The first amendment gives all Americans the right to free speech. It also gives us the right to come together, to protest, to report news freely, and to practice religion.

What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment?* –> Speech

Many colonists came from Europe to America for religious freedom. They wanted to practice their religion in a free way. Now, we also have the freedom to not practice a religion.

What is freedom of religion? –> You can practice any religion, or not practice a religion.

These rights in the constitution are for all people in the United States. That means these are rights for citizens, permanent residents, undocumented people, and visitors.

What are two rights of everyone living in the United States? –> freedom of speech, freedom of religion

N-400

• 19. Did you EVER receive any type of military, paramilitary, or weapons training?
• 20. Did you EVER recruit (ask), enlist (sign up), conscript (require), or use children in an armed force?
• 21. Did you EVER use children to do anything that helped or supported people in combat?