BELLRINGERBELLRINGERDescribe the nation’s class system and Describe the nation’s class system and what it is based on?what it is based on?

ANALYZE THE ANALYZE THE CARTOON AND CARTOON AND BE PREPARED BE PREPARED TO DISCUSS IT. TO DISCUSS IT.

Chapter 5: Chapter 5: Section 1Section 1

The Duties and The Duties and Responsibilities of Responsibilities of

CitizenshipCitizenship

I. A Citizen’s Legal DutiesI. A Citizen’s Legal Duties• A. A. Each of us belongs to many communities. As

community members, we have responsibilities – things we should do or obligations that we fulfill voluntarily.

• B. B. We also have duties – things we are required to do. We must fulfill duties required by national, state, and local governments or face fines or imprisonment.

• C. C. Obey the law. Laws serve specific purposes, such as to help people get along, prevent accidents, and see that resources are used fairly.

• D. D. Pay taxes. Government uses tax money to pay police, pave roads, maintain armed forces, and other activities.

1. 1. Income taxes are a percentage of what people earn.

2. 2. People also pay sales taxes on the sale of goods and services and on property.

• E. E. Defend the nation, if called. In the United States, all men aged 18-25 must register with the government in case the country needs to draft, or call up, men for military service. Service is currently voluntary.

• F. Serve in court, if called. Every adult citizen must be prepared to serve on a jury or as a witness at a trial if called to do so.

• G. G. Attend school. Most states require young people to attend school until age 16.

GROUP WORK:GROUP WORK:Discussion Question:Discussion Question:•How does staying in school benefit How does staying in school benefit you and the government?you and the government?

• You need knowledge and skills to make wise decisions, and our democratic system of government needs informed citizens to operate well. In school, you not only gain an understanding of different subjects but you also learn to think through problems, form opinions, and express your views clearly.

II. Civil ResponsibilitiesII. Civil Responsibilities• A. Be informed. Know what the government is

doing so that you can voice your opinion. You can learn about issues and leaders by reading print publications, listening to news on the radio or TV, talking to people, and searching the Internet. Also, know your rights.

• B. B. Speak up and vote. Government exists to serve you, but you must make your concerns known. Call, write or send e-mail to your elected representatives. Join a political party or work for a cause. ABOVE ALL, VOTE!!!!!ABOVE ALL, VOTE!!!!!

• C. C. Study candidates and issues before marking your ballot. If the performance of an elected leader falls short, vote for someone else in the next election. Voting ensures a peaceful and orderly change of leadership.

• D. D. Respect others’ rights. Respect public property and the property of others. Vandalism and littering are not only disrespectful, but are also crimes.

GROUP WORK:GROUP WORK:DISCUSSION QUESTION:DISCUSSION QUESTION:•What are some of the issues during this What are some of the issues during this election year?election year?

1.

2.

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• E. E. Respect diversity. Although you may disagree with people or disapprove of their lifestyles, they have an equal right to their beliefs and practices. Tolerance means respecting and accepting others, regardless of their beliefs, practices, or differences. Diversity is a strength. All citizens are equal and entitled to be treated the same.

• F. F. Contribute to the common good. Contribute time, effort, and money to help others and to improve community life. Be an active participant in your community.

GROUP WORK:GROUP WORK:Discussion Question:Discussion Question:•Why should you be tolerant of Why should you be tolerant of others?others?

• Although you may disagree with people or disapprove of their lifestyles, they have an equal right to their beliefs and practices. Treating others politely and respectfully is part of being a good citizen.

WHAT WAYS ARE YOU WHAT WAYS ARE YOU A GOOD A GOOD CITIZEN?CITIZEN?

EXIT STRATEGY: