Social Studies (2010) Grade(s): 12 - United States Government

SS10.USG.14

Describe the role of citizens in American democracy, including the meaning, rights, and responsibilities of citizenship; due process and other rights guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States; and participation in the election process.

Unpacked Content

Knowledge

Students know:
  • Expectations and responsibilities associated with U.S. citizenship. Rights afforded to U.S. citizens as found in the Bill of Rights, such as free exercise of religion and right to a fair trial.
  • Means of participation by citizens in the United States that shape the political process, such as voting and protesting.
  • How equally important American values and concepts, such as citizens' rights and the rule of law, can come into conflict amongst one another, such as national authority and state rights.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Critique the rights and responsibilities of citizens as they come into conflict with other constitutional rights and responsibilities of the American government.
  • Defend one perspective in a conflict amongst equally important American values or concepts.
  • Justify a means by which a citizen can influence the outcome of an election beyond voting.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • Both rights and responsibilities are associated with American citizenship afforded to them by the American Constitution and the meaning of such rights is contested in certain circumstances.

Vocabulary

  • value conflict
  • due process
  • majority rule
  • minority rights
  • civil disobedience
  • democratic society
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