Spotsylvania Career & Technical Center
6713 Smith Station Road
Spotsylvania, VA 22553
Integrating Civics and U.S. Citizenship
Education into the Adult ESOL
Classroom
By
Rappahannock Area Regional Adult Education
Committee on U.S. Citizenship Education
Karen Johnson
Rhea Boudaoud
Lydia Collett
Nuria Luciano
2
Produced by the Rappahannock Area Regional Adult Education Program, Spotsylvania,
VA. June 2008.
This guide was paid for under the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act, Title II of the
Workforce Investment Act of 1998; however, the opinions expressed herein do not
necessarily represent the position or policy of the U. S. Department of Education, and no
official endorsement by the U. S. Department of Education is implied or should be
inferred.
3
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ................................................................................................................ 3
Table of Worksheets ........................................................................................................... 5
Introduction......................................................................................................................... 6
Vocabulary from the U.S. Application for Naturalization (N-400) & Supporting
Activities by Proficiency Level .......................................................................................... 7
Beginning Level Vocabulary from the N400 .................................................................... 8
Activities for Beginning Level Vocabulary....................................................................... 9
Name & Address Activities ............................................................................................... 9
Personal Information Activities ........................................................................................ 9
Intermediate Level Vocabulary from the N400 ............................................................. 14
Activities for Intermediate Level Vocabulary ................................................................ 16
Instructions Activities ..................................................................................................... 16
Name & Address Activities ............................................................................................. 16
Personal Information Activities ...................................................................................... 16
Employment and Travel Activities .................................................................................. 17
Accommodations Activities ............................................................................................. 17
Miscellaneous Intermediate Level Activities .................................................................. 17
Advanced Level Vocabulary from the N400 .................................................................. 27
Activities for Advanced Level Vocabulary ..................................................................... 28
What are they talking about? .......................................................................................... 28
Discussion: Use of agree/disagree ................................................................................. 28
Definitions....................................................................................................................... 29
Card game ...................................................................................................................... 29
Situations – What would you do? ................................................................................... 29
BINGO ............................................................................................................................ 30
Vocabulary Review for Each Topic ................................................................................ 30
Guess the vocabulary word ............................................................................................ 30
Miscellaneous Activities ................................................................................................. 30
US. Citizenship Test Questions and Supporting Activities by Proficiency Level ....... 44
4
Beginning Level U.S. Citizenship Test Questions .......................................................... 45
Government Questions.................................................................................................... 45
American History Questions ........................................................................................... 45
Geography Questions ..................................................................................................... 45
Symbols Questions .......................................................................................................... 46
Holidays Questions ......................................................................................................... 46
Intermediate Level U.S. Citizenship Test Questions ..................................................... 47
American Government Questions ................................................................................... 47
System of Government Questions ................................................................................... 47
American History Questions ........................................................................................... 49
Advanced Level U.S. Citizenship Test Questions .......................................................... 51
American Government Questions ................................................................................... 51
American History Questions ........................................................................................... 52
Beginning Level U.S. Civics Activities. ........................................................................... 54
Online Resources ............................................................................................................ 54
Print Resources ............................................................................................................... 54
Ideas and Sample Activities ............................................................................................ 54
Intermediate Level Civics Activities ............................................................................... 59
Online Resources ............................................................................................................ 59
Print Resources ............................................................................................................... 59
Ideas and Sample Activities ............................................................................................ 60
Advanced Level Civics Activities .................................................................................... 73
Sample Activities ............................................................................................................. 73
U.S. Government Documents/Speeches .......................................................................... 73
Online Resources ............................................................................................................ 73
Literacy Test for U.S. Citizenship ................................................................................... 80
Sample Reading and Writing Vocabulary Sentences .................................................... 83
Print Resources ................................................................................................................. 85
Online Resources .............................................................................................................. 85
5
Table of Worksheets
Worksheet 1: Family Tree ............................................................................................... 10
Worksheet 2: Name & Address Fill in the Blank .......................................................... 11
Worksheet 3: Virginia Driver's License Application .................................................... 12
Worksheet 4: Eye & Hair Color Word Search .............................................................. 13
Worksheet 5: Comparing Completed Applications....................................................... 18
Worksheet 6: Marital Status Matching .......................................................................... 19
Worksheet 7: Personal Information Questions .............................................................. 20
Worksheet 8: Sample Itinerary ....................................................................................... 21
Worksheet 9: Accommodations Matching ..................................................................... 22
Worksheet 10: Personal Information Dictation Q & A ................................................ 23
Worksheet 11: Name & Address Word Scramble ......................................................... 24
Worksheet 12: Personal Information Crossword .......................................................... 25
Worksheet 13: Personal Information Word Search ...................................................... 26
Worksheet 14: Voting & Taxes Fill in the Blank ........................................................... 31
Worksheet 15: Affiliations Fill in the Blank................................................................... 32
Worksheet 16: Moral Character Fill in the Blank (1) ................................................... 33
Worksheet 17: Moral Character Fill in the Blank (2) ................................................... 34
Worksheet 18: Crime Words Fill in the Blank .............................................................. 35
Worksheet 19: Military Vocabulary Fill in the Blank .................................................. 36
Worksheet 20: Military Vocabulary- Matching ............................................................ 37
Worksheet 21: Voting & Taxes Crossword .................................................................... 38
Worksheet 22: Moral Character Crossword (1) ............................................................ 39
Worksheet 23: Moral Character Crossword (2) ............................................................ 40
Worksheet 24: Affiliations Vocabulary Crossword....................................................... 41
Worksheet 25: Crime Vocabulary Crossword ............................................................... 42
Worksheet 26: Military Vocabulary Crossword ........................................................... 43
Worksheet 27: U.S. Map .................................................................................................. 55
Worksheet 28: U.S. Flag ................................................................................................... 56
Worksheet 29: U.S. Flag Fill in the Missing Letters ...................................................... 57
Worksheet 30: U.S. Holidays Fill in the Missing Letters .............................................. 58
Worksheet 31: U.S. Flag Scrambled Words .................................................................. 61
Worksheet 32: U.S. Holidays Scrambled Words ........................................................... 62
Worksheet 33: Holiday Dates .......................................................................................... 63
Worksheet 34: U.S. Government Matching ................................................................... 64
Worksheet 35: Declaration of Independence Fill in the Blank..................................... 65
Worksheet 36: U.S. Government Fill in the Blanks ...................................................... 66
Worksheet 37: Elected Officials & Branches ................................................................. 67
Worksheet 38: U.S. Government: Numbers................................................................... 68
Worksheet 39: Rights & Responsibilities ....................................................................... 69
Worksheet 40: Citizenship Conversation 1 .................................................................... 70
Worksheet 41: Citizenship Conversation 2 .................................................................... 71
Worksheet 42: U.S. History Time Line ........................................................................... 72
Worksheet 43: WH-questions: U.S. Government .......................................................... 74
Worksheet 44: Civics & Government Fill in the Blanks ............................................... 75
Worksheet 45: Citizenship Conversation 3 .................................................................... 76
Worksheet 46: Citizenship Conversation 4 .................................................................... 77
Worksheet 47: Preamble to Constitution Cloze ............................................................. 78
Worksheet 48: Star Spangled Banner Cloze .................................................................. 79
6
Introduction
The purpose of this book is to provide curriculum and corresponding activities so that
teachers of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) at all levels might
incorporate civics and citizenship education into the regular adult ESOL classroom
curriculum. Students do not have to wait until they are ready to study for the citizenship
test to be introduced to the material.
Teachers can have a 10-15 minute “civics moment” during each class or periodically
devote a whole class period to civics education. The concept of incorporating civics
education into the curriculum was introduced, by this study committee, to the ESOL
teachers in the Rappahannock Area Regional Adult Education program in January 2008.
Teachers were presented with draft copies of some of the final documents that are included
in this book. Teachers at all levels incorporated civics education into the curriculum
during the winter/spring semester, 2008. The responses from the students and teachers
were positive, whether the teacher used a short 10-minute lesson during a class or a longer
time frame.
The following is a comment from a teacher of beginning level students.
“The time focused on this was well received and embraced by my students. They felt
empowered that one day, they will be U.S. citizens. They absolutely loved it.”
This book is divided into the following sections:
Vocabulary and Supporting Activities from the U.S. Application for Naturalization
(N-400) by Proficiency Level
U.S. Citizenship Test Questions and Supporting Activities by
Proficiency Level
Literacy Test for the U.S. Citizenship Test with Sample Reading and Writing
Vocabulary Sentences
An effort has been made to designate proficiency levels in accordance with the guidelines
established under Virginia’s Adult ESOL Content Standards. The proficiency levels in
each section are referred to as beginning, intermediate and advanced. Teachers may find
it helpful to consider using materials across these suggested proficiency levels, depending
upon their individual classes and students.
7
Vocabulary from the U.S. Application for Naturalization
(N-400) & Supporting Activities by Proficiency Level
This section lists vocabulary words from the U.S. Application for Naturalization (N-400)
and provides a few sample ideas and activities to teach the vocabulary by suggested
English language proficiency level. The designation of beginning, intermediate and
advanced level vocabulary may be adjusted to the specific proficiency levels of individual
classes or students.
Most of the vocabulary on Parts 1-9 of the N-400 consists of common words that students
will encounter on job applications, medical forms, etc. The vocabulary and activities can
be incorporated into any beginning or intermediate level ESOL class. An added incentive
for learning this vocabulary is that students will encounter it if they choose to apply for
U.S. citizenship at some point in the future.
Parts 10-14 of the N-400 contain vocabulary that is not frequently encountered in
everyday usage. That vocabulary is listed as “Advanced Level Vocabulary” and the
accompanying activities are best suited for advanced level ESOL students who are
planning to apply for citizenship.
8
Beginning Level Vocabulary from the N400
Much of this vocabulary is used for completing a variety of everyday forms. Accordingly,
this vocabulary can be added to that which is normally taught for providing personal
information.
Instruction Vocabulary
capital letters
Name & address vocabulary
county
family name (last name)
full name
given name (first name)
initial
last name
legal name
middle name
P. O. Box
street
Personal information vocabulary
bald
black
blond
blue
brown
country of birth
date of birth:
mm/dd/yyyy
daughter
eye color
feet/inches
female
gray
green
hair color
hazel
height
male
marital status
maroon
married
never married
pink
pounds
red
sandy
single
son
spouse
weight
white
9
Activities for Beginning Level Vocabulary
Name & Address Activities
Family Tree
Students will complete a family tree indicating full names of each member, last, first,
middle. (Worksheet 1)
Complete the Words
Students will complete the name/address vocabulary words by filling in the missing
letters. (Worksheet 2)
Personal Information Activities
Virginia Driver’s License Application
Students will complete a portion of the Virginia Driver’s License/ID application form to
include their personal characteristics: gender, hair color, eye color, height, weight,
nationality, date of birth, etc. (Worksheet 3)
Who’s This?
Teacher will bring pictures of various people cut from print sources. Students will choose
a picture and describe the individual’s physical characteristics (eye color, hair color,
weight, height, age) then develop a fictional story which describes the individual’s marital
status, occupation, likes, dislikes, etc.
Word Search: Eye & Hair Color
Find the indicated words in the puzzle. (Worksheet 4)
10
Worksheet 1: Family Tree
11
Worksheet 2: Name & Address Fill in the Blank
FILL IN THE BLANK: NAME & ADDRESS
Complete the words below by filling in the missing letters.
1. __ AS__
N__ M__
2. F__RS__
__A__E
3. I___IT___A___
4. C__UN__Y
5. __EG__L NA__E
6. FA__IL__
NA__ __
7. P__ST OFF__ __E
B__X
8. S__RE__T
9. __UL__
N__M __
10. M__DD__E
__AM__
WORD BANK
county
first name
initial
last name
legal name
middle name
Post Office box
street
full name
family name
12
Worksheet 3: Virginia Driver's License Application
Personal Information for a Virginia Driver’s License
Below is a part of the application for a Virginia driver’s license or ID card. Complete the
information.
13
Worksheet 4: Eye & Hair Color Word Search
EYE & HAIR COLOR WORD SEARCH
Circle the eye and hair color words below. Words may appear horizontally, vertically or diagonally
in forward or backward order.
I
P
U
N
D
Q
Z
N
C
Y
Y
Q
P
Q
Q
G
M
I
N
G
P
U
T
O
D
K
D
E
E
B
W
S
O
N
I
H
R
F
D
O
E
N
N
E
G
W
L
N
H
K
Q
R
M
Q
E
R
R
C
A
A
B
H
G
X
I
T
L
J
U
T
J
A
I
P
S
D
R
I
K
E
L
Q
V
J
T
G
B
M
N
J
R
T
B
T
V
H
T
I
B
E
J
L
V
V
S
P
D
A
J
E
D
V
Q
R
M
Z
U
E
K
D
WORD BANK
bald
black
blond
blue
brown
gray
green
hazel
maroon
pink
red
sandy
white
A
Y
L
P
N
Y
F
Y
O
D
A
E
G
M
H
M
P
D
J
Z
G
C
C
W
Y
E
Y
P
H
M
B
L
A
C
K
Z
M
K
N
S
D
L
V
K
A
M
G
R
A
Y
H
A
Z
E
L
R
T
M
I
K
Z
R
X
Y
X
X
M
R
W
X
L
X
G
Z
Z
U
R
I
B
C
J
V
X
G
D
W
X
X
G
W
N
Q
Z
U
X
G
R
E
E
E
N
F
L
L
M
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Intermediate Level Vocabulary from the N400
It is assumed that all Beginning Level Vocabulary has been acquired or will be taught prior
to instruction of this Intermediate Level Vocabulary. Much of this consists of everyday
usage, however some less frequently encountered terms are included.
Instructions Vocabulary
black ink
print
type
Name & Address Vocabulary
“care of”
mailing address
present address
street address
Time Vocabulary
current
during
last
latest
present
previous
prior
past 5 years
recent/most recent
Personal Information Vocabulary
alimony
annulled
country of nationality
dependents
divorced
gender
national origin
race
resident/nonresident
widowed
Race/Ethnicity Vocabulary
Alaskan Native
American Indian
Asian
Black/African American
Hispanic/Latino
Native Hawaiian
Pacific Islander
White
Accommodations Vocabulary
blind
deaf
disability
hearing impaired
impairment
sight impaired
waiver
wheelchair
15
Employment & Travel Vocabulary
employee
employer
left
occupation
returned
traveled
16
Activities for Intermediate Level Vocabulary
Instructions Activities
Completing Applications:
Students will compare 2 completed applications. One is printed neatly in black ink; the
other is completed in pencil and contains errors in capitalization or spelling. Ask students
which one looks more professional and why. Have students make corrections/suggestions
as to how to improve the less desirable application. (Worksheet 5)
Name & Address Activities
Famous People’s Names
Teacher will present pictures of well-known celebrities, political, religious, sports figures
and ask students to give their names: first, last, given, family, etc. Students will play
“what if” by recreating the name of a female celebrity who would marry a male celebrity
and take his last name. (Ex) If Jennifer Lopez married George Bush her name would be
Jennifer Bush, pointing out the previous name and current name.
Where have you lived
Students will identify places they have lived or visited in the past 5 years on a map of the
U.S./world. Students will indicate the years in which they lived in these places and rank
them by most recent, latest, present (using some of the “time vocabulary”).
What’s the address?
Teacher will bring in or ask students to bring in some utility bill statements.
Using those and a paper or on-line phone directory, students will write addresses of some
local utilities. Students will be asked to identify billing address vs. physical address – P.O.
Box vs. street address.
Personal Information Activities
What’s Their Marital Status?
Students will be given a reading passage and be asked to determine the marital status to
include single, married, divorced, annulled, widowed of the individuals described
therein. (Worksheet 6)
17
Personal Information Questions
Students will fill in the blank with the correct question word as indicated by the provided
answer. (Worksheet 7)
Dictation Activity
Students will write a question that is dictated by the teacher, using personal information
vocabulary. Students will then write their own answers to those questions. (Worksheet
10)
Employment and Travel Activities
Sample job applications
Students will complete job applications, which include listing previous
employment/employer, current occupation, latest, most recent jobs held, etc.
Travel Itineraries
Teacher will bring in sample travel itineraries which show dates of departure, duration
of travel, dates left, returned, traveled, total days out of country, most recent travel,
etc. Students will respond to questions about the itinerary. (Worksheet 8).
Accommodations Activities
Students will match particular disabilities/impairments to accommodations that are made
for those individuals in a classroom environment. (Worksheet 9)
Miscellaneous Intermediate Level Activities
Crossword, Word Search, Unscrambled Words. (Worksheet 11, Worksheet 12, Worksheet
13).
18
Worksheet 5: Comparing Completed Applications
19
Worksheet 6: Marital Status Matching
What’s their marital status?
Mary married Bill after Bill’s first wife, Susan, divorced him. Mary’s sister, Isabel,
was married to Peter who was killed in a car accident. Peter’s sister, Linda, was never
married, but his brother, Paul married Jane. Paul and Jane are still married but they are
not living together because they argue too much. Jane was married once before to a
young man named Joe, but their marriage was legally ended when Jane’s parents told
the judge that Jane had lied about her age and was only 15 years old when she got
married.
What is the marital status of each of these people? Draw a line from each name to the
person’s marital status.
Mary
divorced
Susan
widowed
Isabel
had the marriage annulled
Linda
separated
Paul
single
Joe
married
Write a story like the one above and ask a classmate to guess the marital status of your
characters.
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
20
Worksheet 7: Personal Information Questions
Personal Information Questions
Write the correct question word in each blank.
Who When Why How What Where
1. __________________ is your address? (My address is 1777 Cosines Lane.)
2.___________________ were you born? (I was born in Costa Rica)
3.___________________ were you born? (I was born on August 8, 1956)
4.___________________ did you go back to Costa Rica? (To visit my parents)
5.___________________ did you come to the United States? (in 1984)
6.___________________ date did you become a permanent resident?
(April 10, 2002)
7.___________________ did you become a permanent resident?
(Through marriage to a U.S. citizen)
8.___________________ did you become a permanent resident?
(In Goldsboro, North Carolina)
9.___________________ lives with you? (My husband and children)
10.__________________ did you go back to Costa Rica? (By plane)
11.__________________ did you come to the United States?
(I was hired to come to work as a Spanish teacher.)
12.__________________ did you go back to Costa Rica? (In 2004)
21
Worksheet 8: Sample Itinerary
Sample Travel Seminar Itinerary to El Salvador from USA
August 1, 2008
Depart U.S. for San Salvador.
August 2, 2008
Visit the Universidad Centro Americana (UCA) and tour major sites of San Salvador
August 3, 2008
Tour the U.S. Embassy
August 4, 2008
Tour some local communities around San Salvador.
August 5, 2008
San Salvador shopping and sightseeing.
August 6, 2008
Tour a coffee cooperative that produces organic coffee
August 7, 2008
Day at the beach.
August 8, 2008
Return to the U.S.
Answer these questions:
What is the duration of this travel? (What is the total number of days you will be out of the country?)
What is the departure date from the U.S. to El Salvador?
What is the return date to the U.S.?
What is the total number of days you will be out of the country?
How many days are left in this trip after August 5th?
Write an itinerary for a trip to your country or to a place you went most recently.
22
Worksheet 9: Accommodations Matching
ACCOMMODATIONS MATCHING
Match the accommodation listed on the right that might be made for each impairment
or disability listed on the left.
blind
wheelchair
deaf
large-print books
hearing impairment
test waiver
sight Impairment
hearing aid
paraplegic
sign language interpreter
severe learning problem
guide dog
23
Worksheet 10: Personal Information Dictation Q & A
DICTATION QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Listen to the following questions; write them down and answer each one with your personal information.
Be sure to write COMPLETE sentences. The first one has been done for you.
( Example)
How long have you been a lawful permanent resident?
I have been a lawful permanent resident since 1994.
1. How long have you worked for your present employer?
____________________________________________________________.
2. What is your family name?
______________________________________________.
3. What is your current marital status?
________________________________________________.
4. Has your marriage been annulled?
_________________________________________________.
5. When did you first come to the United States?
_________________________________________________.
6. Do you need any special accommodations in this class?
_________________________________________________.
7. Do you have a disability?
_________________________________________________.
8. Have you changed jobs in the last 5 years?
_____________________________________________________.
9. How tall are you?
______________________________________________.
10. Where are you living right now?
_____________________________________________.
11. Do your children live with you?
_____________________________________________.
12. Are you Hispanic or Latino?
_____________________________________________.
13. What race do you consider yourself to be?
____________________________________________.
24
Worksheet 11: Name & Address Word Scramble
Name & Address: Unscramble the Words
Unscramble each of the clue words.
Copy the letters in the numbered cells to the corresponding numbered cells below.
WORD BANK
current address
country of birth
date of birth
daughter
dependent
female
gender
in care of
male
son
25
Worksheet 12: Personal Information Crossword
PERSONAL INFORMATION CROSSWORD
PUZZLE
WORD BANK
accommodation
family
given
impairment
legal
marital
middle
present
residents
waiver
widow
widower
Across
4. ________name - last name that is passed on by parents to their children
6. Blindness or deafness
9. Man whose wife died
10. _________status - single, married, divorced, or never married
12. _________name - first name presented to a child at birth
Down
1. __________ address - place at which a person lives at that moment
2. A document that says a known right or rule can be dismissed
3. People who have legally lived in the US for at least 3 years
5. Special adaptation supplied to satisfy a need
7. _________ name - name that follows first name
8. Woman whose husband died
11. _________ address - place at which a person receives official notices
26
Worksheet 13: Personal Information Word Search
PERSONAL INFORMATION WORD SEARCH
Find the words listed below. Words may appear horizontally, vertically or diagonally,
either backward or forward.
P
G
D
A
V
N
T
B
Y
D
T
S
K
H
S
O
M
E
G
W
W
A
W
E
I
R
Y
Z
E
A
G
L
C
O
E
L
I
I
C
L
N
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N
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R
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F
E
M
A
L
E
G
D
E
B
O
E
D
R
D
I
U
K
C
V
V
H
Y
E
N
V
S
A
N
N
E
H
C
D
B
H
T
D
F
U
I
M
E
C
U
A
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A
G
R
E
E
N
U
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D
J
H
Y
F
O
Y
L
Z
H
A
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A
W
E
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U
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E
A
P
B
M
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C
R
V
A
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S
N
O
O
R
A
M
S
Q
A
L
K
Z
Q
Q
D
Y
T
G
X
A
K
Y
M
T
L
C
R
L
Y
Q
D
Y
Y
K
O
N
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M
D
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B
F
U
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U
M
N
Y
B
E
V
Y
J
A
T
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G
V
G
A
P
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A
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F
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WORD BANK
bald
brown
feet
gray
hazel
male
pounds
black
divorced
female
green
height
maroon
red
blue
eyes
gender
hair
inches
married
sandy
27
Advanced Level Vocabulary from the N400
It is assumed that all Beginning and Intermediate Level Vocabulary has been acquired or
will be taught prior to instruction of the Advanced Level Vocabulary. Many of the terms in
the Advanced Level Vocabulary are not commonly used but are included in the questions
asked on the N400. Because some of these terms have meanings specific to the context of
the naturalization application, teachers should consult appropriate references for definitions.
Voting & Taxes Vocabulary
claim
confined
file
legally incompetent
nobility (title of)
overdue
return (tax return)
tax
Crime Vocabulary
controlled substance
deport
drunk
drug
drunkard
gambling
narcotic
penalty
perjury
prostitute
Moral Character Vocabulary
arrested
attorney
charged
cited
committed
crime
detained
jail
judge
law enforcement officer
offense
paroled
prison
probation
record
sealed
sentence
suspended sentence
Affiliations Vocabulary
advocate
affiliation
Communism
concentration camp
Nazi
persecute
prisoner
terrorist
totalitarian
Military & Oath Vocabulary
bear arms
civilian
combatant
deserted
draft
drafted
exemption
noncombatant
Selective Service
U.S. Armed Forces
war
Miscellaneous Vocabulary
deportation proceeding
proceeding
deport
rescission
exclusion proceeding
removal proceeding
28
Activities for Advanced Level Vocabulary
What are they talking about?
Teacher chooses a topic to use and writes an example of a conversation overheard about
the topic on the board. Students guess what the person is talking about and anything else
related to the conversation. For example, who is the speaker, what is his/her relationship
with the person being addressed, etc. Students might also role-play the situation.
Example:
Topic: Voting/taxes
Vocabulary Term
Conversation
File income tax
“Have you done it yet?” “No, I’m still working on it.” “You
should do it on or before April 15th.”
overdue
“Oh no, I’m late again, and I owe some money.” “When that
happens, you have to pay a penalty.”
title of nobility
“Well. Who does she think she is, the Queen of England?”
legally incompetent
“You can’t use him as a witness, he has a mental illness.” “I
know it will not help our case in court.”
confined
“Yes, and besides he’s restricted in his moves in the psychiatric
hospital.” “You’re right. He can’t be at home moving
freely.”
Discussion: Use of agree/disagree
Teacher writes a list of related words on the board and includes one word that does not
belong. One student would choose the word that doesn’t belong, another student would
agree or disagree and explain why.
Example:
Tax Return
file
terrorist
overdue
claim
29
Definitions
The teacher chooses a vocabulary word and writes two or three definitions of the word on
the board. Teacher then gives one example of a sentence using the word correctly and two
more sentences using the word incorrectly. The students must pick the sentence that best
describes the correct use of the word.
Example: Advocate – support, promote
The group advocates the building for today only.
The group advocates the damaged homes.
√The group advocates the overthrow of the government.
More advanced students will explain their answer.
Card game
The teacher writes each vocabulary word on an index card and writes the definition of the
word on another card, making several cards.
Teacher puts the cards with the words on one stack and the definition cards on another
stack. Teacher then asks the students to pick a card from each stack. After everybody
picks their cards, each player will try to find the person who has the matching card by
asking questions such as “Do you have the meaning of……?” Students will answer, “Yes,
I do,” or “No, I don’t.”
Situations – What would you do?
The teacher writes several “What would you do if ...” questions on a card using the
vocabulary words. Students will pick a card and answer the question. Each player must
give a reasonable answer; the group decides on which one is the most appropriate.
Example: What would you do if a drunk asks you for money?
What would you do if you were given a penalty for an offense you didn’t
commit?
What would you do if you couldn’t find a lawyer whom you could afford?
30
BINGO
The teacher writes on the board 20-29 vocabulary words to review. Teacher instructs the
students to choose any 16 of them and write them down on a prepared bingo grid, (4X4).
Teacher calls out the words one by one in random order. The students will mark the words
as they are called out. When they have crossed off all the words in a row, column,
diagonal, students shout “Bingo”. Small prizes, such as candy, may be awarded to
winners.
For the more advanced:
Instead of calling out the words one by one, the teacher calls out the definition of the
words and the students mark the word that matches the definition.
Vocabulary Review for Each Topic
The teacher chooses a topic such as “Voting & Taxes” and writes it on the board.
Students are asked to suggest all the words they associate with the topic, such as claim,
file, tax return, etc. and write the words circling the title.
For the more advanced students, the teacher erases all the words circling the title and asks
them what words they remember.
Guess the vocabulary word
The teacher prints or writes the meaning of words being reviewed on several slips of paper
and places them in a bag. Each student picks out a slip and identifies the vocabulary word.
Miscellaneous Activities
Students will complete fill-in the blanks, word searches and crossword puzzles for the
various vocabulary topics in this section (Worksheet 14 -Worksheet 26).
31
Worksheet 14: Voting & Taxes Fill in the Blank
VOTING/TAXES - FILL IN THE BLANK
Choose the correct answer: The first one is done for you.
claimed
confined
filed
nobility
overdue
return
incompetent
1. Have you ever ________claimed____________ to be a U. S. citizen?
2. Have you filed your tax ________________?
3. Have you paid the penalty for your ___________________________ taxes?
4. Have you ________________ your tax return?
5. Do you have any title of _______________________ in a foreign country?
6. Have you ever been declared legally _________________________ within the
last five years?
7. Have you ever been ________________________ to a mental institution within
the last 5 years?
32
.
Worksheet 15: Affiliations Fill in the Blank
AFFILIATIONS - FILL IN THE BLANK
Choose the correct answer. The first one is done for you.
advocated
concentration
Communist
Nazi
persecuted
prisoner
terrorist
totalitarian
war
1. Have you ever
advocated
the overthrow of any government?
2. The prisoners of war are detained in a __________________________ camp.
3. Have you ever been a member of the ________________________ party where the
government system controls all businesses and properties?
4. A ___________________ is a member of the National Socialist Party, a German
political movement.
5. Have you ever _____________________________ any person because of race,
religion or national origin?
6. A captured person is called a _____________________________.
7. A member of a _________________________ organization uses violence to frighten
people.
8. A member of a ____________________________ party is dictatorial.
9. Prisoners of _______________________ are confined in concentration camp
33
Worksheet 16: Moral Character Fill in the Blank (1)
GOOD MORAL CHARACTER (1) - FILL IN THE BLANK
Choose the correct answer. The first one is done for you.
arrested
judge
charged
cited
committed
crime
detained
jail
1. You could be arrested
or taken into custody if you commit a crime.
2. Have you ever _____________________ or perpetrated a crime?
3. A _______________________ is any misdeed or offense.
4. Have you ever been _________________________ or accused with committing any crime
or offense?
5. Have you ever been ____________________ or held in custody by any law enforcement
officer?
6. Have you ever been ___________________ or summoned by any law enforcement
officer?
7. A person waiting for a trial may be put in a ___________________ or detention center.
8. A public official who hears cases in a court of law is called a ___________________.
34
Worksheet 17: Moral Character Fill in the Blank (2)
GOOD MORAL CHARACTER (2) – FILL IN THE BLANK
Choose the correct. Answer. The first one is done for you.
law enforcement officer
offense
paroled
prison
probation
record
sealed
sentence
suspended sentence
1. A law enforcement officer , such as a police detective, is
responsible for enforcing the law.
2. Have you ever been convicted of any crime or ________________________?
3. Somebody who is _________________________ is released early from
prison.
4. Convicts must stay in _____________________.
5. If you are on ____________________, you are released on condition of good
behavior.
6. Do you have any criminal ____________________________?
7. Your records are ____________________________ for your protection.
8. The judge hears cases and gives the ________________________.
9. A ________________________ ________________________ is a sentence
that becomes temporarily ineffective.
35
Worksheet 18: Crime Words Fill in the Blank
CRIME VOCABULARY- FILL IN THE BLANK
Choose the correct answer. The first one is done for you.
drunk
drunkard
prostitute
controlled substances
narcotic
gambling
deport
perjury
penalty
1. You might get
drunk
if you drink too much alcohol.
2. You are a ___________________ if you are habitually drunk.
3. If you get paid for performing sexual acts, you are a _____________________.
4. ________________________
_____________________________ are regulated
under the Controlled Substances Act.
5. A ____________________________ is an addictive drug that causes a change of
behavior.
6. There is a lot of __________________ going on in Las Vegas.
7. You don’t want the government to expel or _______________ you.
8. Lying under oath is _______________________ or false oath.
9. You can get a ________________________ or a punishment if you lie under oath.
36
Worksheet 19: Military Vocabulary Fill in the Blank
MILITARY/OATH REQUIREMENTS – FILL IN THE BLANK
Choose the correct answer. The first one is done for you.
U. S. Armed Forces
draft
deserted
exemption
Selective Service
bear arms
combatant
civilians
1) The military forces of the United States are called the
U.S. Armed Forces.
2) The military _______________________ might be possible when more troops
are needed to fight the war.
3) Those who are handicapped may file an __________________________ from
military service.
4) Have you ever ____________________________ the U. S. Armed Forces?
5) The __________________________________ is the system of calling up
people for compulsory military service popularly called the draft.
6) Are you willing to __________________
behalf of the United States?
____________________
on
7) A _______________________ or a soldier is engaged in fighting.
8) __________________________ are people who are not members of the Armed
Forces.
37
Worksheet 20: Military Vocabulary- Matching
MILITARY/OATH REQUIREMENTS - MATCHING
MATCH THE CORRECT ANSWER
a) U. S. Armed Forces
_____popularly called the draft
b) draft
_____ possession of a weapon
c) drafted
_____U.S. military forces
d) exemption
_____ a soldier
e) deserted
_____recruitment for military duty
f) Selective Service
_____a person not engaged in
fighting
g) bear arms
_____a person who is not in the
military
h) combatant
_____called up for military duty
i) non-combatant
_____exception
j) civilian
_____abandoned
38
Worksheet 21: Voting & Taxes Crossword
39
Worksheet 22: Moral Character Crossword (1)
40
Worksheet 23: Moral Character Crossword (2)
41
Worksheet 24: Affiliations Vocabulary Crossword
42
Worksheet 25: Crime Vocabulary Crossword
43
Worksheet 26: Military Vocabulary Crossword
44
US. Citizenship Test Questions and Supporting Activities by
Proficiency Level
From revised U.S. citizenship test to be used beginning October 2008
This section lists the test questions and answers from the revised U.S. Citizenship Test
(the oral exam about U.S. Civics), which will be in use commencing October 2008. The
questions are numbered as they appear on the test but are divided into corresponding
beginning, intermediate and advanced proficiency levels for introduction into adult ESOL
classes. For instance, the test questions concerning the geography of the United States
might be introduced in a beginning level class, while detailed questions about the division
of government powers would be more appropriate for an advanced level ESOL class.
The purpose of integrating this curriculum into adult ESOL classes is to familiarize
teachers with the citizenship test questions and to provide activities at each level to assist
students in learning about U.S. history and government. Students do not have to attend a
citizenship class to be exposed to the material. Teachers can start to introduce the topics
in a beginning level class by taking 10 or 15 minutes each day to have a “Citizenship
Moment.” Alternatively, teachers might choose to devote a class period every so often to
“Civics Lessons”.
There is a vast supply of print and online resources available to teach U.S. Civics topics.
The sample activities and worksheets, by proficiency level, that follow, are offered as a
means to begin incorporating the curriculum into adult ESOL classes.
45
Beginning Level U.S. Citizenship Test Questions
Government Questions
(26) We elect a President for how many years?
four (4)
(27) In what month do we vote for President?
November
(28) What is the name of the President of the United States now?
___________________________ (fill in with appropriate answer)
(29) What is the name of the Vice-President of the Unites States now?
___________________________ (fill in with appropriate answer)
(32) Who is the Commander in Chief of the military?
The President
(43) Who is the Governor of your state?
____________________________ (fill in with appropriate answer)
(44) What is the capital of your state?
__________________________ (fill in with appropriate answer)
(45) What are the two major political parties in the U.S.?
Democratic & Republican
(46) What is the political party of the President now?
__________________________ (fill in with appropriate answer)
(56) What is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms?
April 15
American History Questions
(62) Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
Thomas Jefferson/Jefferson
(69) Who is the “Father of Our Country”?
George Washington / Washington
(70) Who was the first President?
George Washington / Washington
(86) What major event happened on September 11, 2001 in the United States?
Terrorists attacked the United States
Geography Questions
(88) Name the two longest rivers in the U.S.
Mississippi & Missouri (River)
(89) What ocean is on the West Coast of the U.S.?
Pacific (Ocean)
46
(90) What ocean is on the East Coast of the U.S?
Atlantic (Ocean)
(91) Name one U.S. territory.
Puerto Rico
U.S. Virgin Islands
American Samoa
Northern Mariana Islands
Guam
(92) Name one state that borders Canada.
Maine
Ohio
New Hampshire
Michigan
Vermont
Minnesota
New York
North Dakota
Pennsylvania
Montana
Idaho
Washington
Alaska
(93) Name one state that borders Mexico.
California
New Mexico
Arizona
Texas
(94) What is the capital of the U.S.?
Washington, D.C.
(95) Where is the Statue of Liberty?
New York (Harbor)
Liberty Island
Also acceptable is New Jersey, near New York City, and on the Hudson (River)
Symbols Questions
(96) Why does the flag have 13 stripes?
Because there were 13 original colonies
Because the stripes represent the original colonies
(97) Why does the flag have 50 stars?
Because there is one star for each state
Because each star represents a state
Because there are 50 states
(98) What is the name of the national anthem?
The Star-Spangled Banner
Holidays Questions
(99) When do we celebrate Independence Day?
July 4
(100) Name two national U.S. holidays.
New Year's Day
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Presidents' Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Columbus Day
Veterans Day
Thanksgiving
Christmas
47
Intermediate Level U.S. Citizenship Test Questions
American Government Questions
(1) What is the supreme law of the land?
The Constitution
(2) What does the Constitution do?
Sets up the government
Defines the government
Protects basic rights of Americans
(4) What is an amendment?
A change (to the Constitution)
An addition (to the Constitution)
(5) What do we call the first 10 amendments to the Constitution?
The Bill of Rights
(7) How many amendments does the Constitution have?
27 ( twenty-seven)
(8) What did the Declaration of Independence do?
Announced our independence (from Great Britain)
Declared our independence (from Great Britain)
Said that the United States was free (from Great Britain)
(9) What are 2 rights in the Declaration of Independence?
Life
Liberty
Pursuit of happiness
(10) What is freedom of religion?
You can practice any religion, or not practice a religion.
System of Government Questions
(13) Name one branch or part of the government.
Congress / Legislative
President / Executive
The courts / Judicial
(15) Who is in charge of the executive branch?
The President
(16) Who makes federal laws?
Congress
Senate and House (of Representatives)
(U.S. or national) legislature
(17) What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?
Senate & House (of Representatives)
48
(18) How many U.S. senators are there?
100 (one hundred)
(19) We elect a U.S. senator for how many years?
6 (six)
(20) Who is one of your state’s U.S. senators?
____________________ (fill in with appropriate answer)
(21) The House of Representatives has how many voting members?
435 (four hundred thirty-five)
(22) We elect a U.S. Representative for how many years?
2 (two)
(23) Name your U.S. Representative.
____________________________ (fill in with appropriate answer)
(24) Who does a U.S. Senator represent?
All people of the state
(30) If the President can no longer serve, who becomes President?
The Vice-President
(31) If both the President and the Vice-President can no longer serve, who becomes
President?
The Speaker of the House
(35) What does the President’s Cabinet do?
Advises the President
(36) What are two Cabinet-level positions?
Secretary of Agriculture
Secretary of Commerce
Secretary of Defense
Secretary of Education
Secretary of Energy
Secretary of Health and Human Services
Secretary of Homeland Security
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
Secretary of Interior
Secretary of State
Secretary of Transportation
Secretary of Treasury
Secretary of Veterans' Affairs
Secretary of Labor
Attorney General
(38) What is the highest court in the U.S.?
The Supreme Court
(39) How many justices are on the Supreme Court?
9 (nine)
(40) Who is the Chief Justice of the U.S.?
____________________ (fill in with appropriate answer)
(47) What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives now?
_____________________ (fill in with appropriate answer)
(49) What is one responsibility that is only for U.S. citizens?
Vote
Serve on a jury
49
(50) What are two rights only for U.S. citizens?
Apply for a federal job
Vote
Run for office
Carry a U.S. passport
(51) What are two rights of everyone living in the U.S.?
Freedom of expression
Freedom of speech
Freedom of assembly
Freedom to petition the government
Freedom of worship
The right to bear arms
(54) How old do citizens have to be to vote for President?
18 (eighteen) and older
American History Questions
(58) What is one reason colonists came to America?
Freedom
Religious freedom
Political liberty
Practice their religion
Economic opportunity
Escape persecution
59) Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived?
Native Americans or American Indians
(60) What group of people was taken to America and sold as slaves?
Africans or people from Africa
(61) Why did the colonists fight the British?
Because of high taxes (taxation without representation)
Because the British army stayed in their houses (boarding, quartering)
Because they didn't have self-government
(63) When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?
July 4, 1776
(64) There were 13 original states. Name three.
New Hampshire
New Jersey
Massachusetts
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Delaware
Connecticut
Maryland
New York
Virginia
(65) What happened at the Constitutional Convention?
The Constitution was written.
The Founding Fathers wrote the Constitution.
(66) When was the Constitution written?
1787
North Carolina
South Carolina
Georgia
50
(68) What is one thing Benjamin Franklin is famous for?
U.S. diplomat
Oldest member of the Constitutional Convention
First Postmaster General of the United States
Writer of "Poor Richard's Almanac"
Started the first free libraries
(73) Name the U.S. war between the North and the South.
The Civil War
The War between the States
(74) Name one problem that led to the Civil War.
Slavery
Economic reasons
States' rights
(75) What was one important thing that Abraham Lincoln did?
Freed the slaves (Emancipation Proclamation)
Saved (or preserved) the Union
Led the United States during the Civil War
(76) What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?
Freed the slaves
Freed slaves in the Confederacy
Freed slaves in the Confederate states
Freed slaves in most Southern states
(85) What did Martin Luther King, Jr. do?
Fought for civil rights
Worked for equality for all Americans
(87) Name one American Indian tribe in the U.S.
Cherokee
Creek
Navajo
Blackfeet
Sioux
Seminole
Chippewa
Cheyenne
Choctaw
Arawak
Pueblo
Shawnee
Apache
Mohegan
Iroquois
Huron
Oneida
Lakota
Crow
Teton
Hopi
Inuit
51
Advanced Level U.S. Citizenship Test Questions
American Government Questions
(3) The idea of self-government is in the first 3 words of the Constitution. What are these words?
We the People
(6) What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment?
Speech
Religion
Assembly
Press
Petition the government
(11) What is the economic system in the U.S.?
Capitalist economy
Market economy
(12) What is the “Rule of Law”?
Everyone must follow the law.
Leaders must obey the law.
Government must obey the law.
No one is above the law.
(14) What stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful?
Checks and balances
Separation of powers
(25) Why do some states have more Representatives than other states?
Because of the state's population
Because they have more people
Because some states have more people
(33) Who signs bills to become laws?
The President
(34) Who vetoes bills?
The President
(37) What does the judicial branch do?
Reviews laws
Explains laws
Resolves disputes (disagreements)
Decides if a law goes against the Constitution
(41) Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the federal government. What is
one power of the federal government?
To print money
To declare war
To create an army
To make treaties
52
(42) Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the states. What is one power of
the states?
Provide schooling and education
Provide protection (police)
Provide safety (fire departments)
Give a driver's license
Approve zoning and land use
(48) There are four amendments in the Constitution about who can vote. Describe one of them.
Citizens eighteen (18) and older (can vote).
You don't have to pay (a poll tax) to vote.
Any citizen can vote. (Women and men can vote.)
A male citizen of any race (can vote).
(52) What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance?
The United States
The flag
(53) What is one promise you make when you become a U.S. citizen?
Give up loyalty to other countries
Defend the Constitution and laws of the United States
Obey the laws of the United States
Serve in the U.S. military (if needed)
Serve (do important work for) the nation (if needed)
Be loyal to the United States
(55) What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?
Vote
Join a political party
Help with a campaign
Join a civic group
Join a community group
Give an elected official your opinion on an issue
Call Senators or House Representatives
Publicly support or oppose an issue or policy
Run for office
Write to a newspaper
(57) When must all men register for the Selective Service?
At age eighteen (18)
Between eighteen (18) and twenty-six (26)
American History Questions
(67) The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the U.S. Constitution. Name one of the writers.
(James) Madison
(John) Jay
(Alexander) Hamilton
Publius
53
(71) What territory did the U.S. buy from France in 1803?
Louisiana Territory
Louisiana
(72) Name one war fought by the U.S. in the 1800’s.
War of 1812
Mexican-American War
Civil War
Spanish-American War
(77) What did Susan B. Anthony do?
Fought for women's rights
Fought for civil rights
(78) Name one war fought by the U.S. in the 1900’s.
World War I
Vietnam War
World War II
(Persian) Gulf War
Korean War
(79) Who was President during World War I?
(Woodrow) Wilson
(80) Who was President during the Great Depression and World War II?
(Franklin) Roosevelt
(81) Who did the U.S. fight in World War II?
Japan, Germany and Italy
(82) Before he was President, Eisenhower was a general. Which war was he in?
World War II
(83) During the Cold War, what was the main concern of the U.S.?
Communism
(84) What movement tried to end racial discrimination?
Civil Rights (Movement)
54
Beginning Level U.S. Civics Activities.
There are many print and online resources available which provide activities for teaching Civics to
English language learners. Some that provide materials suitable for beginning language learners
are listed below. The references for these materials appear on page 85.
Online Resources
http://www.elcivics.com – Web site with facts, photos, videos and free downloadable activities on
variety of topics including famous people, places, holidays, historical events in U.S. history.
http://bensguide.gpo.gov - (Ben’s Guide to U.S. Government for Kids) – U.S. government web
page designed for K-12, with many activities appropriate for the adult ESOL learner. Facts on
every major event in U.S. history and system of government, arranged by grade level with
printable and online activities to accompany each topic within the grade levels.
Print Resources
The following textbooks offer a variety of activities, reading passages, and comprehension
exercises about U.S. history and government that would be appropriate for beginning level
learners.
The Uncle Sam Activity Book
The Grab Bag of America
Voices of Freedom
Ideas and Sample Activities
In addition to the above-mentioned resources, some additional activities that might be appropriate
for beginning level ESOL students follow.
Geography: Map Skills
Using a U.S. wall map for reference, students will follow the below instructions, using on a blank
map of the U.S. (Worksheet 27).
Write in the name of the states that border Canada and Mexico
Label the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers
Put a on the place which marks the location of Washington, D.C.
Put an X on the place which marks the location of the Statue of Liberty
The U.S. Flag
Students will color the U.S. flag template (Worksheet 28) then write the names of the 13 original
colonies on the stripes.
Fill in the missing letters: U.S. flag (Worksheet 29)
Holidays
Fill in the Blanks: Holidays (Worksheet 30 )
55
Worksheet 27: U.S. Map
56
Worksheet 28: U.S. Flag
57
Worksheet 29: U.S. Flag Fill in the Missing Letters
The American Flag - Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the missing letters.
A m ___ ___ i c ___ n
stars
b l ___ ___
states
___ o l ___ ___ i ___ ___
flag
f i ___ ___ y
stripes
f l ___ ___
American
o r ___ ___ ___ n a ___
colonies
___ ___ d
thirteen
s t ___ ___ s
blue
s t ___ ___ ___ s
white
___ t r ___ ___ ___ s
original
t h ___ ___ t ___ ___ ___
red
w h ___ ___ ___
fifty
58
Worksheet 30: U.S. Holidays Fill in the Missing Letters
HOLIDAYS Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the missing letters.
1. New Year’s Day
N ___ w Y ___ ___ r’ ____
D ___ ___
2. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
___ a r t ___ ___ L ___ ___ h ___ r
3. Presidents’ Day
___ r e ___ i d ___ ___ t ___’
4. Memorial Day
M e ___ ___ r ___ ___ l
___ a y
D a ___
5. Independence Day
I ___ d ___ p___ n d ___ ___ c ___
6. Labor Day
___ a b ___ ___
K ___ n ___, J ___.
D ___ ___
D ___ y
7. Columbus Day
___ ___ l ___ m b ___ ___
___ a y
8. Veterans Day
V ___ ___ e ___ ___ ___ s
___ ___ ___
9. Thanksgiving
T ___ ___ n k ___ ___ ___ v ___ n g
10. Christmas
C ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ m ___ ___
D ___ y
59
Intermediate Level Civics Activities
Some print and online resources that offer a variety of activities for intermediate level learners
follow. In addition, the online resources listed in the Beginning Level Civics Activities section
(page 54) contain many activities that are appropriate for Intermediate level ESOL students.
Complete references for these resources are on page 85.
Online Resources
http://www.history.com/- (The History Channel Web site) –offers a wide variety of videos and
print documents on many aspects of American history. Videos can be viewed online.
http://www.earlyamerica.com - (Archiving Early America Web site) – offers print and videos
about variety of U.S. history topics
http://www.uscis.gov - (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Web site) – this site provides
complete information on the process of obtaining U.S. citizenship. Under “Educational
Resources”, teachers and students can find a variety of sample test questions, flashcards, videos
and other activities to assist them in preparing for the Citizenship test.
http://uscitizenpod.blogspot.com – this blog site contains scripts of INS interviews for
citizenship with accompanying audio files, enabling students to hear sample conversations with
INS interviewers. It also contains both audio and text files of the citizenship exam questions,
however as of this printing, the questions are from the test that is being administered prior to
October 2008.
Print Resources
The following textbooks offer a variety of activities, reading passages, and comprehension
exercises about U.S. history and government that would be appropriate for intermediate level
learners.
Voices of Freedom
The Uncle Sam Activity Book
The Grab Bag of America
In addition to the above resources, some additional activities that might be appropriate for
Intermediate level ESOL students are as follows:
60
Ideas and Sample Activities
Geography Skills - Plan a trip:
Students will plan a round-trip from Canada to Mexico and back, traveling south along one
coastline and returning north along the opposite coastline. They will write the names of the
states through which they pass, as they mark the route on the map (Worksheet 27). Students
should label the oceans and rivers on the map and indicate those states that border Canada &
Mexico.
U.S. Flag
Unscramble the words about the U.S. flag (Worksheet 31).
On flag template (Worksheet 28), students will write the names of the 13 colonies on the lines
and the abbreviations of the 50 states on the stars.
Holidays
Unscramble names of holidays (Worksheet 32 )
Matching Dates/Holidays (Worksheet 33 )
American Government
Matching – government vocabulary with definitions (Worksheet 34).
Declaration of Independence Fill in the Blanks (Worksheet 35)
American Government Fill in the blanks (Worksheet 36)
Government Positions/Branches Fill in the Blanks (Worksheet 37)
Guess the Numbers: U.S. Government Facts (Worksheet 38)
Rights & Responsibilities Fill in the Blanks (Worksheet 39)
American History
Citizenship Conversations (Worksheet 40-Worksheet 41)
U.S. History Timeline (Worksheet 42)
Teacher will tell abbreviated story of U.S. history from 1492 – 1790 then ask students to
complete the time line.
Slavery & Civil Rights Jigsaw Exercise
Teacher will divide class into pairs or groups of 3-4 students and distribute short reading
passages on Slavery, Abraham Lincoln, Civil War, Martin Luther King, Civil Rights, etc. to each
pair/group. Students will be asked to read passages, talk about what they understood from the
passage, then prepare to tell the whole class about their passage. A good source for such reading
passages is EL civics.com (see reference page 85).
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Worksheet 31: U.S. Flag Scrambled Words
The American Flag Word Scramble
Unscramble these letters to make words.
n m i A r c e a
u l b e
o o e n i c l s
i f t f y
g l f a
a r i o g i n l
e r d
r t s a s
a t s s t e
p r e s t i s
e h i r t t en
e h w i t
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Worksheet 32: U.S. Holidays Scrambled Words
SCRAMBLED HOLIDAYS
Unscramble the letters to spell a national United States holiday.
1. d e n c e n d y I D p a e e n ( 2 words )
2. D r a d n P e i t e y s s’ ( 2 words)
3. y e w a N r ‘s Y D e y a ( 3 words)
4. e y r a M a i m o l D ( 2 words)
5. L D b a a r y o ( 2 words)
6. n a g i n r a t t L i u h y M e r K r. J D ( 5 words)
7. g k s g T i a n v i h n ( 1 word)
8. u o a l s C u m y b D ( 2 words)
9. h i t r m s a s C ( 1 word)
10. V e n D t a s y e a r ( 2 )
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Worksheet 33: Holiday Dates
DATES OF NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
Match the letter of the date next to the name of the holiday.
1. New Year’s Day _____
a. December 25
2. Labor Day _____
b. the third Monday in January
3. Christmas _____
c. November 11
4. Independence Day _____
d. the last Monday in May
5. Columbus Day _____
e. the third Monday in February
6. Veterans Day _____
f. July 4
7. Martin Luther King Jr. Day _____
g. the fourth Thursday in November
8. Thanksgiving _____
h. January 1
9. Memorial Day _____
i. the second Monday in October
10. Presidents’ Day _____
j. the first Monday in September
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Worksheet 34: U.S. Government Matching
U. S. GOVERNMENT MATCHING
Cut apart the vocabulary and definitions. Students match words and meanings, working
in pairs.
Bill of Rights
First 10 amendments to the
Constitution
Life, liberty & the
pursuit of happiness
Rights granted by the Declaration
of Independence
Declaration of Independence
Announced the independence of
the U.S. from Great Britain
Constitution
Supreme Law of the Land
Freedom of Religion
Right to practice or not practice any
religion
Amendment
Change or addition to the
Constitution
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Worksheet 35: Declaration of Independence Fill in the Blank
U.S. Government: Declaration of Independence
Fill in the blanks with the correct words.
liberty
Declaration of Independence
equal
government
independence
happiness
1. The colonists declared their ____________________ on July 4,
1776.
2. The ___________________________is a very important document.
3. The basic belief of the Declaration of Independence is that all men
are created _______________.
4. The rights of the Declaration of Independence are life, liberty and the
pursuit of __________________.
5. The _________________must do what the people say.
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Worksheet 36: U.S. Government Fill in the Blanks
U.S. Government Fill in the Blanks
Chose the right answer from the box below to complete the following statements.
1. The _______________________ is the Supreme Law of the Land.
2. The Constitution _______________ ________
and
____________________
______
________________________
___________
___
_____________.
3. A change made to the Constitution is an________________________________.
4. The first 10 amendments to the Constitution are called the _____________ ___
_______________________.
5. There are ________________________ amendments to the Constitution.
6. The ____________________
_____
__________________announced the United States’
independence from Great Britain.
7. Life, ____________________ and the ________________ ____ ______________
are rights stated in the Declaration of Independence.
8. The _________________ ________________ is the highest court in the U.S.
9. The _____________________ is in charge of the Executive Branch.
10. U.S. Senators represent _____ _____ _____________ __ ______
11. The _________________________
12. The _____________ ____
_____
_________.
advises the President.
_____________ becomes the President if
both the President and the Vice-President can no longer serve.
Bill of Rights
twenty-seven
Speaker of the House
Supreme Court
Declaration of Independence
all the people of their state
liberty
President
Cabinet
Vice-President
amendment
pursuit of happiness
Constitution
defines the government
protects the rights of Americans
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Worksheet 37: Elected Officials & Branches
Elected Officials & Their Branches of Government
Fill in the blank below the title with the appropriate name and branch of government
(Executive, Legislative, Judicial) for these people now in office.
1.
Title: President
Name: _____________________________ Branch _____________________________
2.
Title: U.S. Senators for your state
Name: __________________________
Name: __________________________
Branch ______________________________
3. Title: Vice-President
Name: __________________________
Branch ______________________________
4. Title: U.S. Representative for your District
Name: _____________________________
Branch _______________________________
5. Title: Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Name: ____________________________
Branch ______________________________
6. Title: Speaker of the House
Name: ______________________________
Branch _______________________________
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Worksheet 38: U.S. Government: Numbers
U.S. Government - Numbers
Choose the right number to complete each statement.
1. There are ________ amendments on the Constitution.
a. 10
b. 27
c. 100
2. The House of Representatives has ___________ voting members.
a. 225
b. 100
c. 435
3. U.S. Representatives are elected for ________ years.
a. 2
b. 4
c. 8
4. U.S. Senators are elected for __________ years.
a. 4
b. 8
c. 6
5. The Supreme Court has __________ justices.
a. 4
b. 9
c. 52
6. The Bill of Rights is the first ________ amendments made to the Constitution.
a. 10
b. 27
c. 25
7. A citizen has to be _________ years old to vote for President.
a. 21
b. 35
c. 18
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Worksheet 39: Rights & Responsibilities
U.S. Citizen & Residents Rights & Responsibilities
The following are rights, duties and responsibilities for people living in the United States.
Write each of them in the corresponding column. Some terms may be used more than
once.
carry a U.S. passport
serve on a jury
freedom of worship
apply for a federal job
freedom of speech
freedom of assembly
freedom of expression
run for office
right to bear arms
vote
freedom to petition the government
Responsibilities of
U.S. citizens
Rights of everyone
living in the U.S.
Rights for only those
who are U.S. citizens
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Worksheet 40: Citizenship Conversation 1
CONVERSATION 1 – CITIZENSHIP
a) Hi, what are you up to?
b) I’m looking at this picture. I’m studying for my citizenship class.
a) Oh, that’s a picture of the United States flag. What have you learned so far?
b) Well, I know that the flag has red stripes and white stripes.
a) That’s correct. How many stripes does it have?
b) There are seven red stripes and six white stripes. They represent the first thirteen states called
colonies.
a) Well, I’m impressed.
b) Thank you. I also know that there are fifty stars.
a) And what do they represent?
b) They represent the fifty states of the United States.
a) That’s correct. What else do you need to learn?
b) I also need to learn about the branches of government.
a) Can you name them?
b) Yes. They are the legislative branch, the executive branch and the judicial branch.
a) Ok. Do you know where the senators work?
b) I think so. The senators and the representatives work in the legislative branch, and the President and
Vice President work in the executive branch.
a) What about the judicial branch?
b) The Supreme Court justices work in the judicial branch.
a) That’s very good. By the way, what is the capital of the United States?
b) Washington, D.C.
a) Correct, and one more question. Where is the Statue of Liberty?
b) It’s in New York City.
a) Yes, of course. It’s on Liberty Island in New York City. Well, I’ve got to go now and good luck on
the rest of the questions.
b) Thank you.
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Worksheet 41: Citizenship Conversation 2
CONVERSATION 2 – CITIZENSHIP
a) Hey, good to see you. What are you doing these days?
b) Well, I’m still trying to learn more about the United States government.
a) What for?
b) Have you forgotten? I want to be an American citizen.
a) Oh yes. I remember. So how is it going?
b) Tough.
a) What do you mean “tough?”
b) I have to memorize a lot of things, and it’s not that easy.
a) Well, I understand. But I bet you know most of those things already.
b) Like what?
a) For example, do you know the three branches of the U. S. government?
b) Yes, the executive branch, the legislative branch and the judicial branch.
a) What do you know about the legislative branch?
b) The Congress is the legislative branch of the government and makes the laws of the United States.
a) Do you also know that the Congress has two parts, the Senate and the House of Representatives?
b) Of course. There are 100 members in the U. S. Senate and 435 members in the House of
Representatives.
a) Excellent. How many representatives are there from each state?
b) I’m not sure. I think it depends on the population of the state.
a) Yes. In fact, states with more people have more representatives. Now, do you know how long a
representative’s term is?
b) It’s two years, and by the way I have to go. My class will start soon, and thanks for your
encouragement.
a) My pleasure. See you later.
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Worksheet 42: U.S. History Time Line
U.S. History Time Line
Put the events below into chronological order by numbering the sentences 1
through 8, in the order that the events happened, to tell the story of the
United States becoming a nation.
_______
The colonists began to fight with British soldiers about control
of their land.
_______
The Declaration of Independence was written, telling the
English that the people in the colonies wanted their freedom.
_______
George Washington became the first President of the U.S.
_______
The colonies finally won the Revolutionary War against
England and became independent.
_______
Native Americans began to meet the new colonists.
_______
The Constitution of the United States was written.
_______
People from England started coming to America.
_______
Christopher Columbus sailed across the Atlantic Ocean and
arrived in the “new land”.
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Advanced Level Civics Activities
The print and online resources that are listed in the Beginning & Intermediate Level Civics
Activities section of this booklet (page 54 and page 59) contain many activities that are also
appropriate for advanced level learners. Complete references for these resources are listed on
page 85. In addition to those resources, some additional activities that might be appropriate for
advanced level learners include the following.
Sample Activities
WH-questions & Answers: U.S. History & Government (Worksheet 43 )
Advanced Level Fill in the Blanks: U.S. History & Government (Worksheet 44)
Citizenship Conversations (Worksheet 45-Worksheet 46)
U.S. Government Documents/Speeches
Advanced level students might also be encouraged to read/scan over some parts of the most
important documents and speeches of U.S. history. Texts of these documents are available from
“Ben’s Guide to U.S. Government” or the National Archives Web sites (see references on page
85). There are also audio/video files available for these documents at the indicated links below.
Some suggested documents to review include the following.
Preamble to the Constitution of the U.S. (A cloze exercise is included - Worksheet 47)
Bill of Rights – first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution
Excerpts from Declaration of Independence
Gettysburg Address
“I have a Dream” speech excerpt by Martin Luther King
“Star Spangled Banner” (A cloze exercise in included - Worksheet 48)
Online Resources
Audio files for these documents are available at http://www.learnoutloud.com/.
Video Files for the above documents are available at:
Preamble to the U.S. Constitution
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nduR8oKpSCE&feature=related
Declaration of Independence:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQ0bpaWuZbg&feature=related
Gettysburg Address
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4bM9geY0do
“I have a Dream” by Martin Luther King:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEMXaTktUfA
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Worksheet 43: WH-questions: U.S. Government
U.S. HISTORY AND GOVERNMENT: Wh- questions
Fill in the blanks with what, who, where, when, why and how. Write the answers in
complete sentences.
______________ is the supreme law of the land? the Constitution
______________ is in charge of the executive branch? the President
______________ does a U. S. Senator represent? all the people of the state
______________ many U. S. Senators are there? one hundred (100)
______________ is the Commander in Chief of the military? the President
______________ many justices are on the Supreme Court? nine (9)
______________ is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms? April 15
______________ did the colonists fight the British? because of taxation without
representation, bordering, they didn’t have self government
______________ was the Declaration of Independence adopted? July 4, 1776
______________ is the Pacific Ocean? on the west coast of the United States
______________ is the Atlantic Ocean? on the east coast of the United States
______________ do we celebrate Independence Day? July 4
______________ does the flag have 13 stripes? because they represent the original thirteen
colonies
______________ is the governor of Virginia? _______________________(appropriate name)
______________ does the President’s Cabinet do? advises the President
______________ wrote the Declaration of Independence? Thomas Jefferson
______________ is an amendment? a change or addition (to the Constitution)
______________ vetoes bills? the President
______________ old do citizens have to be to vote for President? eighteen (18) and older
______________ must all men register for Selective Service? between eighteen (18) and
twenty-six (26)
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Worksheet 44: Civics & Government Fill in the Blanks
U.S. HISTORY AND GOVERNMENT
Fill in the blanks with any of the following words:
1787
Africans
American Indians
Benjamin Franklin
Bill of Rights
checks and balances
Communism
Founding Fathers
freedom of religion
George Washington
issuing a driver’s license
Louisiana Territory
Maine
Missouri River
reviews
serve on a jury
slavery
Texas
Thanksgiving
Star Spangled Banner
declaring war
twenty seven (27)
Unites States
The ________________________ is the first ten amendments to the Constitution.
There are ____________________________ amendments in the Constitution.
You can practice or not practice any religion. This is called ____________________.
_________________________ stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful.
The Judicial branch ___________________ laws.
______________________________ is one power of the federal government.
______________________________ is one power of the state.
A United State citizen has the responsibility to _____________________.
When we say the Pledge of allegiance we show loyalty to the __________________.
Before the Europeans arrived, ____________________ lived in America.
__________________ is a group of people taken to America and sold as slaves.
The ____________________________ wrote the constitution.
The Constitution was written in the year _____________________.
_______________________ wrote ‘Poor Richard’s Almanac.”
_______________________ was the first president of the United States.
In 1803 the United States bought the _______________________ from France.
_______________________ is one problem that led to the Civil War.
During the Cold War, the United States was mainly concerned with ________________.
The _________________________ is the longest river in the United States.
_____________________ is one state that borders Canada.
_____________________ is one state that borders Mexico.
The name of the national anthem is the __________________________________.
__________________________ is one U.S. national holiday.
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Worksheet 45: Citizenship Conversation 3
CONVERSATION 3 – CITIZENSHIP
a) Good Morning. How are you today?
b) Not bad, and you?
a) I feel great. Are you ready for some practice questions?
b) Sure. I want you to help me review about the forms of government.
a) Ok. Let’s start. What form of government does the United States have?
b) It is a democratic form of government.
a) Very good, and who elects the public officials?
b) The American citizens, of course.
a) Correct. And what are the three levels of the United States government?
b) I think they are the federal, state and local.
a) You’re right, and do you know that the federal government has three branches?
b) Yes, and most state governments have also three branches.
a) By the way, what city do you live in?
b) I live in the city of Fredericksburg.
a) So that means that the city council makes the laws of Fredericksburg, correct?
b) That’s right, and right now ___________________________ is the mayor of Fredericksburg.
a) You’re getting better. What about the surrounding counties, who makes their laws?
b) I think the elected Board of Supervisors make the laws of each county.
a) Correct, and now one more question. Can you name the governor of Virginia?
b) Yes, Governor __________________, and the Lieutenant Governor is __________________.
a) Excellent. Next time we’ll talk about the Constitution and The Bill of Rights.
b) Thanks for helping me today.
a) No problem. See you next time.
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Worksheet 46: Citizenship Conversation 4
CONVERSATION 4– CITIZENSHIP
a) Hi, have you been waiting a long time?
b) Not really. I just got here.
a) What are we going to talk about today?
b) We will review the Constitution and The Bill of Rights.
a) Ok. Let’s start.
b) What is the Constitution?
a) It is the highest law of the United States.
b) Correct, and it is also called “the supreme law of the land.” What does the Constitution do?
a) The Constitution sets up the government and defines the government.
b) Yes, and don’t forget one more important thing. The Constitution protects the basic rights of
Americans.
a) You’re right. I almost forgot that one.
b) Now, what are the first three words of the Constitution?
a) That’s easy. They are “We the People.”
b) What do you call the changes or additions to the Constitution?
a) They are called amendments, and the first amendments to the Constitution are called the Bill of
Rights.
b) Great, can you give me one or two rights or freedoms from the First Amendment?
a) I can give you more than two: freedom of speech, religion, assembly, press and freedom to petition
the government.
b) Excellent, and what is the freedom of religion?
a) It means you can practice any religion, or not practice a religion.
b) You’re making good progress. Do you still need my help?
a) Thanks. Yes, can I call you again for help sometime?
b) Sure, I’ll be glad to help you again. See you later.
a) Bye.
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Worksheet 47: Preamble to Constitution Cloze
PREAMBLE TO U.S. CONSTITUTION
Cloze Exercise
We the ____________of the United States, in order to _________ a
more perfect Union, establish _________ ____, insure domestic
tranquility, provide for the common ___ ____________ , promote the
general ____ ____________, and secure the ______________ of
Liberty to ___________________
and our Posterity, do ordain and
_____________________ this Constitution for the
__________________
Word Bank
blessings
defense
establish
form
justice
ourselves
people
United States
welfare
________________ of America.
79
Worksheet 48: Star Spangled Banner Cloze
The Star-Spangled Banner
Oh, say, can you ______, by the dawn’s early _________,
What so ____________ we hailed at the twilight’s last
_______________?
Whose broad ____________ and bright ___________ thro’ the perilous
____________,
O’ er the ramparts we ______________, were so gallantly
_____________.
And the rockets’ red ___________, the ____________ bursting in
_______.
Gave ___________ thro’ the ___________ that our __________ was
still ___________.
Oh, say, does that star –spangled ______________ yet ____________
O’er the _________ of the __________ and the home of the
___________?
Word List
air
banner
bombs
brave
fight
flag
free
glare
gleaming
land
light
night
proof
proudly
see
stars
streaming
stripes
there
watched
wave
80
Literacy Test for U.S. Citizenship
In addition to the oral test about U.S. Civics, applicants for citizenship must show their ability
to read and write in English and are given a literacy test to prove their proficiency. For the
reading section of the test, applicants will be given a Civics related question on paper such as
“How many states are there in the United States?” The applicant will be asked to read the
question aloud. The examiner will then dictate the answer to the question and ask the applicant
to write it down. The applicant will not be expected to know the answer to the question.
The USCIS has provided a reading word list and a writing word list from which the words will
be drawn. The words lists and some sample questions and answers are included in this section.
81
82
83
Sample Reading and Writing Vocabulary Sentences
How many Senators are in Congress?
One hundred Senators are in Congress.
How many states are in the United States?
The United States has fifty states.
What is the capital of the United States?
Washington D.C. is the capital of the United States.
What country is north of the United States?
Canada is north of the United States.
What country is south of the United States?
Mexico is south of the United States.
What colors are the American flag?
The American flag is red, white, and blue.
What is one right in the Bill of Rights?
Freedom of speech is one right.
What is the largest state?
Alaska is the largest state.
What state has the most people?
California has the most people.
When is Presidents’ Day?
Presidents’ Day is in February.
When is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is in May.
When is Flag Day?
Flag Day is in June.
When is Independence Day?
Independence Day is in July.
When is Labor Day?
Labor Day is in September.
When is Columbus Day?
Columbus Day is in October.
84
When is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is in November.
Where does the President live?
The President lives in the White House.
Where is the White House?
The White House is in Washington D.C.
Where does Congress meet?
Congress meets in Washington, D.C.
Who was the Father of Our Country?
George Washington was the Father of Our Country.
Who was the first president?
Washington was the first president.
Who is on the one-dollar bill?
Washington is on the one-dollar bill.
Who was the second president?
Adams was the second president.
Who lives in the White House?
The President lives in the White House.
Who elects Congress?
Citizens elect Congress.
Why is George Washington the Father of Our Country?
Washington was the first President.
85
Print Resources
Bliss, Bill and Molinksy, Steven. (2002). Voices of Freedom. White Plains, NY:
Longman/Pearson.
Bohlman, Carolyn and Porter, Catherine. (2000). The Uncle Sam Activity Book.
Chicago, Illinois: NTC/Contemporary Books.
Ganong, Elizabeth and Ingram, Dan. (2004). The Grab Bag of America.
Ontario, Canada: ESL Resources.
Ur, Penny and Wright, Andrew, (1992), Five-Minute Activities. Cambridge, England:
Cambridge University Press.
Wright, Andrew, Betteridge, David and Buckby, Michael. (1983). Games for Language
Learning. Cambridge, England: Cambridge University Press.
Online Resources
Archiving Early America. (2006-08). Archiving Early America Web site.
http://www.earlyamerica.com.
Discovery Education. (2007). Puzzle Maker: Criss-Cross Puzzles.
http://puzzlemaker.discoveryeducation.com.
Learn Out Loud. (2008). Learn Out Loud.com. http://www.learnoutloud.com.
Niven, Christina. (2007). EL Civics for ESL Students. http://www.elcivics.com.
History Channel. (2004). The History Channel website. http://www.history.com.
U.S. Citizenship Podcast. (April 2008). U.S. Citizenship Podcast Wikispace & Blog.
http://uscitizenpod.blogspot.com.
U.S. National Archives & Records Administration. (May 2008). National Archives.
http://www.archives.gov.
United States Government Printing Office. (March 2008). Ben’s Guide to U.S.
Government for Kids. http://bensguide.gpo.gov.
United States Department of Homeland Security/USCIS. (March 2008). United States
Citizenship and Immigration Services. http://www.uscis.gov.
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. (May 2008). Driver’s License & Identification Card
Application. http://www.dmv.virginia.gov.