Civics – Government and Citizenship Study Guide
_______________
PURPOSES OF
GOVERNMENT
* make laws,
* maintain order
* carry out laws,
* decide if laws have been
broken
*protect the property of
individuals and their rights (life
liberty, pursuit of happiness
and equality under the law)
TEST
THREE LEVELS OF
GOVERNMENT
US Government is a
representative
democracy
National –
United States
President Obama
States
State – Virginia
Governor –
Terry McAuliffe
Local – Loudoun
County
Mayor - Kristen
Umstattd
PRINCIPLE – an idea
that all people believe
in
BASIC
PRINCIPLES
OF
GOVERNMENT
LIFE, LIBERTY, AND
PURSUIT OF
HAPPINESS – freedom
to work toward goals you
choose
US CONSTITUTION &
BILL OF RIGHTS –
important documents
written by our first
leaders that tell how
the US Government
will work and protect
citizens’ rights
EQUALITY UNDER THE LAW
all people are to be treated fairly
These are basic principles held by Americans;
these principles unite us. We believe these rights
belong to all people From birth.
 Rules and Laws keep communities safe.
 They should be fair
 Our most important rule at Tolbert is to show
RESPECT for yourself, others & property.
 YOU need to follow RULES to stay safe!
Other review resource
Brainpop Junior
User name = lcpse
Password = elem
Ben’s Guide to U.S. Government
http://bensguide.gpo.gov/k-2/index.html
Ways to Model Citizenship
Good citizens follow the rules and laws
of their communities and contribute to
the common good to make their
community a better place to live, work,
and play.
Work
together
Working together to
make my community a
great place to be!
Serving and helping others
in your community (such
as clean up day at Rocky
Run or our parent helpers)
Show pride
in being an
American
Tell the truth &
keep my promises.
!
Take care of my duties and
accept the consequences for
my actions.
Make good choices &
use self-control.
Take care of my
responsibilities –
like my chores &
homework.
WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF DIVERSITY???
People can learn about other cultures through food, music, clothing, and traditions.
People in a community are alike AND different.
They may come from many ethnic cultures with
differing customs and traditions.
We are UNITED as Americans because we
believe in common principles – such as: life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; and
equality under the law.
Memorial Day
Celebrated the last Monday in
May
Celebrates those who died in
service to our country
Customs– ways of doing things
that are passed from one
generation to the next
Ethnic group – people who
share a common race,
birthplace, religion, language, or
culture
Veterans Day
Honor all American who
served in the military
Celebrated in November