?:;«'' -r jfe m-.>^-^ •^ -tyX- W-^i [LIMIVERSiTYJ! ■^'1 i»:.-^ *f1 The original of tiiis book is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924030478667 UniTersity ol the Statf jI Hev York Bnlletin c AognSt 3, igi'sTait the 'Post- 0£ ««t of August a4i 191' PubUshed lF©«iigb#' Entecad ai leeond-dan matter August 3, igi'sTat the 'Post- Office at Albany, IT. Y., under the ««t of August a4i 191' No. 622 ALBANY, N.Y. September i, 1916 Division of Agricultural and Industrial Education Citizenship Syllabus A COURSE OP STUDY AND SYLLABUS IN CIVIC TRAINING AND NATURALIZATION FORADULT:JMMIGRANTS IN EVENING SCHOOLS REPRINTED FROM THE TWELFTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ALBANY THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK 1916 D44r.MrlS-10,000 j^ THE UNIVERSrrY OF THE STATE OF NEW TOSK Recants of the XJt&maitj With years when teinu expire 1926 Pliny T. Sbxton LL.B. LL.D. Chancellor - Palmyra 1927 Albert Vandbr Veer M.D. M.A, Ph.D. LL.D. Vice Chancellor --------- Albany 1922 Chester S. Lord M.A. LL.D. ----- Brooklyn 1918 William Not^^^^ M.A. Ph.D. LL.D. - - Syracuse 192 1 Francis M. Carpenter ------- Mount Kisco 1923 Abram I. Elkus LL.B. D.C.L. ----- New York 1924 Adelbert Moot LL.D. ------- BuflEalo 1925 Charles B. Alexander M.A. LL.B. LL.D. Litt.D. -___-_-__-_ Tuxedo 1919 John Moore ---------- Elmira 1928 Walter Guest Kelloqg B.A. ----- Ogdensburg 1917 William Berri --------- Brooklyn 1920 James Byrne B.A. LL.B. j- ----- New York Preiident of the HniTenity ^B Commisiioner of Education John H. Finley M.A. LL.D. L.H.D. Depnty Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner for Elementary Education Thomas E. Finegan M.A. Pd.D. LL.D. Assistant Commissioner for Secondary Education Charles F. Whbelock B.S. LL.D. Assistant Commissioner fbr Higher Education Augustus S. Downing M.A- L.H.D. LL.D. Director of Stats Library James I. Wyer, Jr, M.L.S. Director of Science and State Museum John M. Clarke Ph.D. D.Sc. LL.D. Chiefs and Directors of Divisions Administration, George M. Wiley M.A. Agricultural and Industrial Education, Arthur D. Dean D.Sc, Director Archives and History, James A. Holden B.A., Director Attendance, James D. Sullivan Educational Extension, William R. Watson B.S. Examinations and Inspections, Harlan H. Horner M.A., Director Law, Frank B. Gilbert B.A. Library School, Frank K. Walter M.A. M.L.S. School Buildings and Grounds, Frank H. Wood M.A. School Libraries, Sherman Williams Pd.D. Statistics, Hiram C. Case Visual Instruction, Alfred W. Abrams Ph.B. Cornell University Library JK1758 .N56 olln 3 1924 030 478 667 INTRODUCTORY NOTE This publication is issued by the Department in the effort not only to reduce illiteracy in this State, but also to promote fuller preparation for citizenship on the part of those who have not had even elementary training in the schools of this country. Through the general provisions for our children and the efficient enforcement of school attendance, child illiteracy in this State was reduced in the period from 1900 to 1910 by 45 per cent, but so great were the numbers of adult illiterates entering the State during this period that the general percentage of illiteracy was not reduced. It is hoped that in this decade, 1910 to 1920, we shall in this State be able to show a marked improvement. The Federal Government sets forth in its naturalization laws two educational requirements for citizenship: first, a knowledge of the English language, and, second, a familiarity with the fundamental principles of the American government. These are the two founda- tional purposes in the construction of this syllabus, but a familiarity with the " fundamental principles " is interpreted to mean more than an acquaintance with governmental machinery. It is given a broader definition and includes instruction in regard to those obligations which the individual coming as an adult to this country should be helped to meet as a member of the family, of the community, of the State and of the nation. This outline is to give direction in evening study to those who have reached this land too late to learn in the day schools its language, its history and its customs. This course of study and syllabus in " civics and naturalization " for adult immigrants is divided into three parts : Part I is primarily for students who are enrolled in the beginners' classes in English in evening schools and have only a small knowl- edge of the English language. It is, therefore, named the " elemen- tary course." Part 2 has been prepared for students who are also enrolled in the English classes in the evening schools, but have a speaking and read- ing knov/ledge of our language. This " advanced course " is a con- tinuation of the first part but can be used at once if the ability of the class warrants it. Part 3 is especially for naturalization applicants who have been organized into special citizenship classes and who are waiting three months for their naturalization hearing. 6 In the " Suggestions to teachers " a more detailed explanation of the meaning of civic training for adult immigrants will be found, with instructions on how to teach it. It will be noticed that the method of instruction for each part in the syllabus is set forth in the statement accompanying each course. The research department of the National Americanization Com- mittee developed the material embodied in this syllabus, and The University of the State of New York gratefully acknowledges its indebtedness to this committee. In turn the committee desires to give due acknowledgment for some of the subject material taken from the " Civic Courses of the New York Public Schools " and to recognize the many valuable suggestions received from Mr Arthur Dunn, special agent in civic education of the United States Bureau of Education. SUGGESTIONS TO TEACHERS ON CIVIC AND NATURALIZATION TRAINING 1 What Civic Training Is Certain fundamental principles must be clearly kept in mind if an instructor would be successful in giving civic training to immi- grants, and in preparing naturalization applicants for efficient citizenship. It is not only a matter of subject material and method, but also of attitude. Purpose. It is important to emphasize that civic training does not include so much a knowledge ot the machinery of government as a knowledge of its social and reciprocal relationships to its citizens. The greatest gift a teacher can give to an immigrant is an enlarged and enduring standard of his relation to his work, his family, his community and his new citizenship. Practical citizenship. Civic training includes the explanation of governmental agencies and how they serve its citizens. For example, an explanation of the post office — how to mail letters, how to send money, how to make deposits in the postal savings banks — is a topic for practical citizenship. A number of such topics are given in this syllabus. Mutual understanding. A teacher should continually ask him- self these questions: How have my students lived in Europe? What kind of work are they doing? What is their family life? What part are they to have in American life ? An attitude of mutual understanding on the part of the teacher is of great value in giving civic training in order to understand the needs of his stu- dents as he presents hints on health, conduct, dress and citizenship. Interest. Each lesson should be based upon a common everyday experience of the immigrant in which he is deeply interested. Secure a point of contact and make your instruction personal. With personal interest goes enthusiasm. Teaching from known to unknown, is a sound pedagogical principle. Community life. Every one of your students lives in a com- munity and is part of it. They should know what community life means — where the public schools, the public libraries, and state courts in their community are and what they are for. Civic instruc- tion to be vital must be localized, but state and national government can be taught as they touch the life of every community. [7] 8 Remember that your students live In a community, have their homes there, and a social membership. They are workmen and engaged in increasing the wealth of the community. Emphasize their social membership, and what they are doing and can do for their community. There is an identity of interest of the immigrant with that of our government and our welfare. Develop a com- munity point of view with a community spirit. This will mean self-respect and development of character. Explain that one of the qualifications for naturalization and good citizenship is that the applicant must be a man of good moral character. Action. Do not only talk about community life but get your students to think along lines of civic betterment. Suggest to them that they report unsanitary conditions to the health department. Show them the need of keeping their children in school. One principal of an evening school formed a council of immigrants. There was one representative selected from each classroom. This council assisted in advertising the work of the public evening schools through the various foreign newspapers and societies. The enrol- ment increased as a result. Tell your students of the various forms of welfare work in which they can take an active part. Have them observe their com- munity life, analyze it, and cooperate for its improvement by know- ing the " rules of the game " of good citizenship. Personality of the teacher. The effectiveness of instruction in civic training and naturalization for our new citizens depends largely upon the enthusiasm of the teacher. With this enthusiasm must go sympathy, resourcefulness, high ideals of American citizen- ship and a desire for human service. These are the fundamental principles for successful civic and community training for immigrants. The benefit is reciprocal to the immigrant and the community in that it trains for practical citizen- ship. A mutual understanding with an aroused interest for com- munity life will bring definite action for the " new citizenship," the citizenship of service. 2 How to Present Civic Training The means of presenting the subjects of civics and naturalization to adult immigrants are many and varied. With practical variety, a new and lasting interest is aroused by the teacher through many concrete methods of presentation. These methods are strictly modern and include not only the education of the head but the education of the heart as well, for good citizenship. Recitation method. Each lesson, while being definitely corre- lated to the other lessons, should be complete in itself and have a keynote which is emphasized. One lesson, for instance, may especi- ally emphasize the student's dependency upon the community; another, the student's responsibility to the community and the like. The subject material found in the syllabus should be supplemented by informal class discussions and the continual use of questions and answers on local civic subjects. Plan to have special objective material which bears on the lesson at each class session. Such material consists, for example, of copies of legislative bills, pictures, samples of ballots and charts. A discussion of current events and civic developments as an opening feature of the class session will be found a practicable method of winning the attention of the class for the work to follow. Blackboard outlines. Since all knowledge is secured through the senses, the visual method must not be neglected in reaching the mind of the student. Frequent use therefore should be made of blackboard outlines, worked out as the lesson is developed. Black- board diagrams and other illustrative drawings should also be made, such as, for instance, a diagram comparing our government with the organization of a large department store. Map study. Again, in map study, the senses are reached through the sight. Accurate and up-to-date maps of the city, state and nation should be at the command of the class and given continual use. Let the students ask for important locations, point them out on the map, and in other ways take an active personal part in the map exercise. Put every display of interest into action by map- drawing, comparison of distances, and securing information about geographical feature. Community visits. No method of presenting practical civics is more interesting or concrete than that of visits to various institu- tions of civic value in the community. The men should have the purpose of the trip about to be made carefully explained to them, and the significance of the institution to be visited impressed on their minds before the trip is begun. The teacher should be assisted in conducting the trip, if possible, by friendly assistants and guides, who will encourage questions and intelligently answer them. If possible, the cooperation of the officials of the institution should be enlisted, as, for example, when a visit is made to the post office, the postmaster or a deputy should be there to explain to the class in detail the working of this government institution. Such " com- munity visits " may well include beside the post office, the city 10 council, the police court, the public library, museums and a news- paper plant. Moreover, personal visitation and first-hand study of civic con- ditions in one's own community make an impression and create an interest which can not be accomplished by the most vivid description. Patriotic occasions. The origin and true significance of national holidays and anniversaries should be vivified in the minds of the men and every possible means used to instil in them a lasting patriotism and love for our country. Tell them the story of the occasion with the most interesting tacts and in the most fascinating style you can devise ; then have them write the story for you adding any other information they may secure. Give them poetry and music suited to the occasion, and use the flag in decoration and salutes, striving to create in them a heartfelt veneration for the Stars and Stripes. Give a prize or a medal for the best biography of one of our great men, or for the best essay on a patriotic subject. Make the patriotic occasion a real celebration in which the class will find real enjoyment and value. Dramatization. We learn to do by doing. This thought is brought to its logical conclusion by the suggestion that various dramatizations be used in the classroom from time to time. Let the class reproduce the city council and decide important civic ques- tions; again, have sentence passed on a question of misconduct in a mock trial by forming your class into a court. A mock naturaliza- tion hearing at the end of the coarse will be of especial value to the class. Such features give these " coming Americans " a real opportunity to express their larger life of citizenship through their individuality and to receive lessons in terms and characteristics of reality. Speakers and lectures. To have men of prominence and of public office address the class makes a lasting impression and often leaves an incentive to self -development that can scarcely be secured by others means. If the speaker is a man of character and power, the helpful influence of his personality upon the class may be ines- timable, and his message one of enlightenment and uplift. It is often helpful, also, to have a talk or series of talks on health, hygiene and pure living given to the class. Stereopticon lectures are of especial pleasure to foreign groups and may vivify scenes and historical situations which may not be personally visited. A reciprocal value may well be noted here in that the speaker before a citizenship class is almost invariably impressed by the calibre and earnestness of the men who are about to become 11 " fellow-citizens." The speaker may thus become definitely inter- ested in the. Americanization of immigrants. Self-government club. When it is possible to organize the class into a self-government club, it will be found that the principles of democracy can be readily given practical expression in such a way as to be indelibly impressed upon the men's minds. The organiza- tion, while strictly correct, should be informal to the extent of encouraging free self-expression. Original thought, organization, diplomacy, correct parliamentary usage, self-control and self-con- fidence may all be taught through such a club. An "American club " for coming citizens, if rightly directed, can be made a real force in the community for better citizenship. Through the activities of the club, the sanitation, health and welfare of the community can be studied and improved. Make the club the means for the students to express their interest and energy for good citizenship in their community. Abatmg nuisances and reporting law violations may be easily included within the scope of the organization. It is earnestly urged that no instructor will regard this course of study and method of civic training as a narrow-gauge road to be followed minutely. Each teacher must study his class, know his men and their needs individually and then adopt that part of this flexible civic training which will meet their particular needs. A bibliography is given in connection with each part with the hope that a deeper study of civic training will be made by those using this syllabus and also to furnish the subject material for the actual teachings of the syllabus. The ideals of democracy and good will are invading our time. We should not only make them part of ourselves but pass them on to our foreign-born neighbors. Every teacher of an evening school for immigrants can impart, if he only tries, the spirit of true citi- zenship and democracy. 3 Naturalization Suggestions Civic training for immigrants fails if it does not show the great need for being naturalized, and the method of becoming a citizen. Every man living in America, working in America, and having a family in America should have instilled in him the ideals of America and the desire to be a part of America. You, as a teacher of adult immigrants, can help in Americanization not only by teaching American ideals but by giving definite assistance to every man in your class in becoming naturalized. In the past we have left too much of this great service of democracy to political bosses and to 12 private citizenship clubs, many of which are corrupt and conducted for profit. The United States Bureau of Naturalization, Washington, D. C, will send upon request a copy of the naturalization laws which every teacher of civic training for immigrants should possess and which contains all necessary information. Naturalization status. The first step in rendering this service for American citizenship is for you to ascertain the naturaliza- tion status of your students. This can be best done at the regular registration time. The important facts to secure are (i) length of residence in the United States, and (2) citizenship papers (first or second). Application blanks. The next step after your class is well organized, and several lessons have been given, is to find out how many men desire to make application for their naturalization papers and then secure the number of application blanks desired. Natural- ization procedure is detailed and often perplexing. The necessary routine is discouraging to the prospective citizen, but the friendly advice and assistance of a public-spirited teacher can greatly over- come these difficulties. Explain to your men the purpose of the various requirements and steps to citizenship. Help them to fill out their application blanks. These blanks can be secured from the courts of naturalization of your community. The best way is for each board of education, through its supervisor of evening schools, to obtain a large quantity of blanks from the local naturalization authorities and then distribute them to the various classes according to the requests of the teachers. Night sessions of the clerk's office of naturalization. In several cities an effective cooperative plan has been developed between the clerk's office of naturalization and the public evening schools for immigrants. A systematic arrangement is made through which, when a number of night school students are ready to make their application for first or second papers, their instructor brings them in a group to the clerk's office of naturalization in the evening. Thus they are given personal attention by their teacher and are not required to lose a day's work or pay. Citizenship receptions. Citizenship should mean something definite and personal to every nev/ citizen. A great national step has been made in this direction by many cities throughout the country in holding "Americanization day celebrations " on the Fourth of July. These celebrations have taken the form of a community welcome to the newly naturalized citizens of the past 13 year. Both the cities of Cleveland and Los Angeles not only do this, but, at certain definite periods, generally monthly, they give a " citizenship reception " to the new citizen of the current period, under the auspices of the local court of naturalization with the cooperation of the board of education and the civic and patriotic organizations of the community. After an appropriate patriotic program, with the judge of the court presiding, each successful naturalization applicant is very proud when his name is called and be receives his certificate of citizenship as a diploma. The public is invited to witness the occasion and the new citizens are requested to bring their friends and families. Every person interested in civic training, and especially evening school teachers, can assist in the establishment of such occasions by calling the attention of the board of education to their possibilities." The future relationship of the men in your class to the community is largely in your hands as a teacher, so far as citizenship is con- cerned. . This citizenship may be made a truly American one. The opportunities for lasting guidance in the right direction are so great and many that they should spell " responsibility " to every conscientious teacher. General Bibliography on Civic Training Baldwin. Relation of Education to Citizenship. Yale Press Beard. American Citizenship. Macmillan $i Bourne. Teaching of History and Civics. Longmans Dewey. Moral Principles in Education. Houghton 35c. Gill. A New Citizenship. American Patriotic League. Philadelphia Hill. The Teaching of Civics. Houghton Hughes. The Teaching of Citizenship. Wilde $1.25 Jenks. Citizenship and The Schools. Macmillan $1.25 King. Social Aspects of Education. Macmillan $1.60 New York Board of Education. The School and the Immigrant. Publica- tion No. II of Division of Research and Reference Sheldon. Citizenship and the Duties of a Citizen. Welch $1.50 United States Bureau of Education. Civic Education in Elementary Schools as Illustrated in Indianapolis. Bulletin 642. Circular Letters on Civic Education, by Arthur Dunn. Circular Letters on Civic Educa- tion for Immigrants United States Bureau of Naturalization. Naturalization Laws Can be secured free on request to Bureaus at Washington, D. C. Part I ELEMENTARY CIVIC COURSE FOR IMMIGRANTS Students in adult evening classes for immigrants are of various degrees of education. Some have been well educated in their own countries; some may have a little education; others have had no education whatever. All, however, need to become acquainted with the English language and at the same time be given instruction in American citizensliip. The teaching of English should go hand in hand with civic training because civic subjects easily lend them- selves as text material for such instruction, and because every opportunity must be taken to teach American ideals to our foreign- born. To make the " many peoples of America one nation," a knowledge of both English and civics is essential. One of the educational problems of America is to get the adult immigrant into night schools. There are two reasons why this has been so : first, public evening schools have been very seldom system- atically advertised, and, second, the instruction has not been adapted to the needs of the immigrant. Instruction in citizenship, in con- nection with English classes, has a publicity appeal to the immigrant and, in addition, it meets one of his greatest needs, namely, to be a part of America. There are two fundamental differences between day and evening schools which an instructor should keep in mind. Going to night school is secondary to the necessity of working during the day. This shows the reason why civic training should continually be related to the personal life of each student. The other fundamental difference is that adult immigrants in evening schools are slower to learn, but most impatient to learn. This difference is largely due to being tired out after a hard day's work of manual labor and their very meager previous education. Yet, there is the great ambition to succeed by learning America's ways. This difference emphasizes the need that the instructor be patient, and give each student at every session a practical civic lesson so that he can at once use it in his daily life. In using this " Syllabus of Elementary Civics " for adult immi- grants in English classes, the teaching at first must necessarily be objective until some command of our language is acquired. The [14] 15 citizen, his food, clothing, home and family easily lend themselves to such treatment. The subject matter of the syllabus serves as excellent centers for language lessons and conversations. The im- migrant needs and wants this knowledge, and at the same time he is getting a better understanding of the English language. Get your students to ask questions and have them also answer one another's questions. Geographical comparisons are valuable as a basis of instruction. How do they harvest wheat in Russia? How do they clean the streets in Germany? What educational opportunities did you have in your community in the old country? Immigrant students are always anxious to tell. They are interested and try to talk in English. Such questions connect civic training in America with the past life of the immigrant. In teaching civic training, be practical and do not " shoot over the heads " of your men. Prepare each lesson well in order to get a response from your students for a better community. American citizenship in its highest sense means " efficiency " in the home, work and community. Outline of Syllabus for Elementary Civics for Immigrants I The Citizen — How he lives. I Food, 2 Clothing, 3 Water, 4 Home, 5 Family II The Citizen's Community — What it does for him. I Fire protection, 2 Police protection, 3 Health protection, 4 Public streets, 5 Public signs, 6 Recreation III The Citizen's Work — Work and citizenship. I How to secure work, 2 How to advance in your work, 3 What to do with the money which you earn IV The Citizen's Country — The United States. I The country of the United States, 2 America's great men, 3 The American flag, 4 Holidays and national anni- versaries V Becoming a Citizen — Ideals of American citizenship. I American citizenship, 2 How to become a citizen, 3 The American people. Bibliography for Elementary Civics for Immigrants Allen. Civics and Health. Ginn $1.25 Cabot. A Course in Citizenship. Houghton $1.25 Carr. The Immigrant's Guide. Immigrant Educational Society, New York City ISC. Davison. Health Lessons. Amer. Bk. Co. 16 Dole. The American Citizen. Heath. Hill. Lessons for Junior Citizens. Ginn White. Moral Instruction Through Biography. Free from Character Development League, New York City' Mintz. The New American Citizen. Macmillan New York Board of Education. Syllabus in Civics for Elementary Schools Plass. Civics for Foreigners. Heath Ritchie. Primer of Sanitation. World Book Co. Richman & Wallach. Good Citizenship. Amer. Bk. Co. SYLLABUS FOR ELEMENTARY CIVICS FOR IMMIGRANTS I The Citizen — How he lives Purpose: To show the relation of a citizen to his community. Note: In developing this subject, in addition to increasing the vocabulary, show the interde'pendency of a citizen upon his fellow- citizens of the community and their government. 1 Food a Make on the blackboard a list of articles of food eaten at breakfast, dinner, and supper by the members of the class. h Show how these articles of food came from all over the world. c Distance they are brought and the way handled. d Unlawful to sell spoiled food. e What the community does to protect its citizens from spoiled or tainted food. / Selection of food and nutrition. Current prices of food. g Good, clean food, well cooked and chewed, means good health. h Reciprocal duties: to demand clean food from the milk dealer, grocer, fish dealer, butcher and baker; to report to the health department the careless handling of food or the selling of spoiled food ; and to report short measures or weights to commissioner of weights and measures. i Dramatic exercise in buying food. Members of the class informally acting as customers and merchants. 2 Clothing a Have the members of the class name the various parts of the clothing. h Process of making clothing. c Dependency of every citizen upon merchants and tailors for clothing. IT d Need to have clothing made under sanitary conditions. e Factory inspection. / Proper selection of good, simple clothing. g Fallacy of buying clothing on the instalment plan. Water a With the assistance of the class, write on the black- board the various uses of water, such as drinking, cooking, washing etc. b Needed everywhere by everybody. c Where does your water come from? d Dependency of every citizen upon the water depart- ment for water. e Distribution of water; piping, reservoirs. f How is the water paid for ? Use of meters. Reading water meters. g Need for pure water. h Drink large quantities of good pure water for good health. i Bathe frequently for cleanliness. Home a Draw a diagram of a house on the blackboard and have your students name the various parts. b Draw the floor plans of a two-story house on the blackboard and with the assistance of your class name the various moms of the house. c How the home serves its citizen owner. d What he does for the home. e Importance of fresh air and sunlight. / One window in each room ; a bath in each home. g Tenement house inspection — why? h Dependency of a citizen upon community for living conditions. i What the community does for the home — removal of garbage, etc. Family a Hold a contest and ascertain what member of your class can prepare the largest list of the members of a family relationship, such as : man, woman, hus- band, wife, son, boy etc. b Purpose of the family. c Dependency of family upon its citizen-head, who in turn depends upon the community for work and livelihood. 18 d Protection and support of children. e Need of children going to school. / What the community does for the family. II The Citizen's Community — What it does for him Purpose: To show how the community serves its citizens and how every citizen has a social membership in the community. 1 Fire protection a Write on the blackboard rules for fire prevention. For example: "Do not let children play with matches," " Do not let waste paper accumulate," etc. b The apparatus of the fire department. c The firemen, their duties and dangers. d How citizens can help the fire department. e Care in use of matches. Danger in smoking in factories. / The need of knowing stairway exits in the place of employment and in the home. g Importance of fire drill. h Nearest fire alarm box; when and how to send an alarm. i How the fire department protects the community and every citizen, y Expense of fire department paid by community. 2 Police protection a Have an informal discussion of the duties of a police- man. b What does the policeman do for every citizen? c Helping the policemaij. Reporting crimes, acting as witnesses. d Local laws that he must enforce for welfare of com- munity; laws concerning the carrying of dangerous weapons, of peddling without a license, and regula- tions concerning traffic. e Every citizen must help to enforce the laws. / Mock police court ; an informal dramatization. 3 Health protection a Secure from the health department any literature available for free distribution to give your class. h How does the community protect your health? c The purpose of health department and its work. 19 d Location of nearest hospital and clinics in the neigh- borhood. e Hours for patients. / Safety-first meastires. g First-aid demonstration. h Secure a doctor to give a talk on " Health." Public streets a Map of city; explain location and plan of city. Location of streets. b Why the community provides good streets for its citizens. c Naming and numbering of streets. d Purpose of street department. e Importance of keeping streets clean. How every citizen can help. / Lighting of streets for business and protection. g Use of rubbish boxes. Scattering refuse in streets forbidden by law. h Rules of conduct on the street ; keep to the right ; when and where to cross streets; the traffic police- man. i Secure from the city clerk's office " Traffic Laws " for free distribution to your class. Public signs a Have the members of your class go to the blackboard and write a list of signs which they have seen in America. b How the community protects and serves its citizens through signs. c Danger signs — " Danger," red flag, " Look out for the cars," " Railroad crossing," etc. d Health signs — " Spitting on the floor forbidden by law," " Chicken pox within," etc. e Building signs — " Entrance," " Fire Exit," " Push," " Pull," etc. / Traffic signs — " Wait until car stops," " Leave by front door," etc. Recreation a Request your class to write a short, page statement " My Recreation," and then have several of these read. 20 b Need for recreation; and why community must pro- vide and supervise recreation. c Public recreations. — parks, band concerts, play- grounds, skating, bathing etc. Location of each in community. d Private recreations — moving pictures, theaters, etc. e Need for supervision and control of community over private recreations. / Recreation for children. Ill The Citizen's Work — Work and citizenship Purpose: To show the relation of every citizen's work to the community. 1 How to secure work a On the supposition that you are a man without work, have an informal discussion with your class as to how to secure a job. b Advertisements in the newspapers. c Public employment agencies. d Danger of going to private unlicensed agencies. e Personal application at factories and stores. / The community interested in every citizen's work. 2 How to advance in your work a Have an informal discussion of the ways for a work- ingman to advance. b Show the relation of good health, good habits, and willingness to work, to advancement. c Knowledge of English language. d Tell the stories of successful immigrants who have made good and become American citizens: Jacob Riis, Edward Steiner, etc. 3 What to do with the money which you earn a Put on the blackboard a family budget for a working- man earning $75 a month. b Show the need of saving money. c How to save money for the home. d American money — who makes it; American coins, paper money, etc. e Have simple examples of buying and exchanging money. / Show dependency of citizen-workman upon federal government for good money. 21 IV The Citizen's Country — The United States Purpose: To show the greatness of America and the de- votion of its citizens. 1 The Country of the United States a Have the members of the class locate on a good map of the United States, boundaries, important cities, capitals of the state and nation, and main geograph- ical features. h Comparison of the United States with the student's own native country in extent, climate and products. c The farmlands of the United States; how to secure work on a farm ; how to become a farmer ; home- stead laws. d The territorial growth of the United States. e The greatness of America. 2 America's great men a Story of Christopher Columbus discovering America. ' b Life of George Washington, as the first citizen of the ' United States. c Biography of Abraham Lincoln, the Saviour of American citizenship. d Our present President. e Every American citizen can serve America, the land of many peoples. 3 The American flag a With an American flag give a description of it through the question and' answer method. b Explanation of what the flag stands for. c History of the American flag. d The love of American citizens for the flag. e Pledge of allegiance — " I pledge allegiance to my flag and to the Republic for which it stands ; one nation indivisible, with liberty and justice to all." / Life stories of successful immigrants in your com- munity. 4 Holidays and national anniversaries a Prepare on the blackboard a list of American holidays and anniversaries. b With the assistance of the class, write what they stand for and how they are celebrated. c Assign a holiday to each member of the class to write a short statement about it. 22 d Celebrate with special exercise any national holidays occurring during school- session. V Becoming a Citizen — Ideals of American citizenship Purpose: To show what American citizenship means and how to become a citizen. 1 American citizenship a Obtain from each student through registration the following information: Name and address; place of birth; years in United States; years in com- munity; citizenship status (first or second papers) ; previous education; present occupation and place of work. b Explain advantages of American citizenship. (See syllabus of part 3.) c Responsibilities of American citizenship. d Ascertain how many men desire to make application for citizenship. 2 How to become a citizen a First paper, declaration of intention. h Second paper, petition for naturalization. c Brief explanation of naturalization procedure. (See syllabus of part 3.) d Filling out application blanks for citizenship in the classroom. e Group trip of class to clerk of naturalization in the evening for filing applications. 3 The American people a Explain that America was settled by the various peoples of Europe. h Explain that the American nation today is made of peoples from many nations of Europe. c Future welfare of America depends upon its citizens. Part 2 ADVANCED CIVIC COURSE FOR IMMIGRANTS The immigrant's life in America is generally full of difficulties. A new environment, new customs and tisually a new language makes him an easy prey for unscrupulous, men. If he violates some Ameri- can custom or ordinance that he does not understand and finds him- self arrested as a law-breaker, his experience may even lead him to hate the seemingly unjust laws of his new country. There is a general appeal on the part of the foreigner enrolled in the evening schools for a knowledge concerning the simple customs, laws and principles of ovtr government. This advanced course in syllabus form is an endeavor to guide evening school teachers to meet this appeal. The suggestions for teaching simple business methods are help- ful in giving each immigrant those things which he needs most in his everyday life in order to protect himself and develop into a self-respecting aiid self-supporting American citizen. It is again emphasized that when the section dealing with government institu- tions is reached, not so much the form and organization of them be presented but how they serve the community, and how every one of the community, citizens or " coming citizens " can use them. There are three phases of civic training which should stand out clearly in the mind of every instructor of advanced civics to im- migrants. They are best stated in the words of Mr Arthur Dunn, civic specialist of the United States Bureau of Education : The first of these is to help the student to understand the nature of his own community life, his dependence upon it, and his responsibility for it. The second is to develop a proper understanding of, and a right attitude toward government as the supreme means by which all members of the community may cooperate for the common interest. The third is to cultivate habits of right action as a member of the com- munity, and in relation to its government or control. An understanding of community life and of government, however, is fruitleiss without the cultivation of qualities and habits of good citizenship. Instruction and training must go hand in hand. The latter is largely a matter of practice. [231 24 Outline of Syllabus for Advanced Civics for Immigrants I The •Citizen — How he lives .and conducts his business. I Bills, 2 Receipts, 3 Telephone, 4 Telegrams. II The Citizen's Community — How it serves him. I Public schools, 2 Public library, 3 Post office. III The Citizen's Work — Work and citizenship. I Letters of application for work, 2 Newspaper advertise- ments for work, 3 Education and work, 4 How to save money. IV The Citizen's Country — The United States. I History of the United States, 2 Government of the United States, 3 Divisions of government, 4 The rule of the people, 5 American citizenship club. Bibliography for Advanced Civics for Immigrants Bloomfield. Civic Reader for New Americans. Amer. Bk. Co. Carr. The Immigrant's Guide. Immigrant Educational Society, New York City ISC. , , Citizens' Committee. Self Government in the Schools. Free pamphlets of Citizens' Committee, 2 Wall st., New York Cronson. Pupil Self Government. Macmillan goc. Dunn. The Community and the Citizen. Heath 7Sc Chancellor. History and Government of the United States. Amer. Bk. Co. Forman. Essentials in Civil Government. Amer. Bk. Co. Hill & Davis. Civics for New Americans. Houghton 8oc. Hoxie. How the People Rule. Silver Burdett. Plass. Civics for Foreigners. Heath. Roberts. Civics for Coming Americans. Association Press, 124 E. 28th st.. New York City iSc. United States Bureau of Naturalization. Naturalization Laws. Can be secured free on request to 'bureau at Washington, D. C. SYLLABUS FOR ADVANCED CIVICS FOR IMMIGRANTS I The Citizen — How he lives Purpose: To show how a citizen transacts his business. Note: In presenting this subject material, secure all the neces- sary blank forms and objects in order to give concrete examples of business methods. I Bills a Draw on the blackboard the form of a bill and with the assistance of the class fill out the same. Let the bill be a grocery bill in favor of John Doe. Have the class ascertain the current prices of certain groceries. 25 b Parts and parties to a bill. c Receipting a bill. d After furnishing each member of your class with a billhead, have them fill them out, compute the total and then exchange with a student nearby. Next, have the bills receipted and returned to original student. e Every honest citizen pays his bills and pays them promptly. / Business is based upon trust. What credit is. 2 Receipts o Draw on the blackboard the form of a receipt for rent and fill out for current month with suggestions from students. b Purpose of receipts. c Kinds of receipts. d Have the class fill out receipt forms. Have the students exchange with one another as acknow- ledgment of bill made out above. 3 Telephone a Secure from the lo cent store two toy telephones. Have a member of the class give an order for groceries over the telephone to another member. b The telephone in business. c Parts to a telephone and its mechanism. d The telephone company and its organization. e Telephone directory. / How to use a telephone. g How the telephone serves the citizens of the com- munity — business, calls for police, fire alarms, long distance, etc. 4 Telegrams a Have the members of the class write on the black- board three telegrams: one, accepting a position; two, giving a rush order; and three, announcing a death in the family. b How telegrams are sent. c Cost of telegrams. d Night letters. Day letters. e Secure from a telegraph office a pad of blanks. Have your class write several and then figure cost of sending. 26 II The Citizen's Community — How it serves him Purpose: To explain the functions of certain governmental institutions of the community and how they serve every citizen. 1 Public schools a Informal expressions by the various members of the class on the educational opportunities in the coun- tries from which they came. b Outline on the blackboard the educational steps in America. c Kindergarten, elementary schools, high school, college, professional training, etc. d Evening schools; English and citizenship classes. e Evening trade schools. / Compulsory education for children: reason and its enforcement. g More education means better men, better work and more wages. h Why the community, through the public board of education, pays for the education of its citizens. 2 Public library a Request the librarian of the nearest library to speak to your class about the purpose and use of the public library. b Assist the members of your class to secure library cards. c Make a visit to the library with your class and explain it. d Useful books in English and in foreign languages. e Reading rooms ; newspapers, magazines and reference books. / Ascertain the occupation of the different members of your class and suggest good books about their work. g Urge them to have wife and children use the public library. 3 Post office a Have the class write two letters : one requiring money to be inclosed so that it must be registered, and the other, a rush order for merchandise so that it must be sent by " special delivery." b Explain rate of postage and classes of mail. ' f Registered and special delivery letters. 2Y d The envelop — address written plainly, stamp in upper right-hand corner, and return address in left-hand corner. e Money orders — domestic and international — cost, application blanks, and cashing of money orders. / Parcel post; packages. g Postal savings bank. h Mail carriers and rural free delivery. i How the federal government serves its citizens through the post office. Ill The Citizen's Work — Work and citizenship Purpose: To explain definite means of securing work and how the community is interested in the advancement of each of its citizens. 1 Letter of application for work a On the supposition that you are a man without work and have found an advertisement in the newspaper which you wish to answer, write a letter of applica- tion for work on the blackboard with the assistance of the class. b Parts to a letter: heading, salutation, body of the letter, complimentary close and signature. c Addressing the envelop. d Request your class to write letters of application for work. 2 Newspaper advertisements for work a Have the class write several advertisements for work to be inserted in the newspaper. b Make a study of newspaper advertisements for work. c Compute cost of various advertisements. d Explain the need of every citizen's reading the American newspaper. e Make a trip to a newspaper plant with your class. 3 Education and work a Put on the blackboard the current rate of wages for different classes of working men, unskilled laborer, machinist etc. b Show how rate of wage depends upon skill and knowledge of trade. c Opportunities to learn a trade. d Evening trade schools. 28 e Vocational training for children and their need of learning a trade. / Why the community teaches its citizens to work. 4 How to save your money a Secure from a bank, banking forms to be filled out by the class. h How to open a banking account. c How to deposit money. d How to withdraw money. e What interest is and how to compute it. / Difference between saving and checking accounts. g What a check is; how to indorse a check, and what makes a check good. h Postal savings banks; explain in full. Secure from the postmaster a circular giving all necessary in- formation. i Unreliable banks. / How the banks serve the community and how citizens help one another by using the banks. IV The Citizen's Country — The United States Purpose: To show that the government of United States is a republic of the people, for the people and by the people. 1 The history of United States a Prepare on the blackboard a brief outline of American history. h Discovery and settlement of America. c The Revolutionary War and the Declaration of In- dependence. d The establishment of the United States as a nation and the Constitution. e Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. / America of today. g Show how the greatness of America is due to the loyalty and high principles of its citizens. 2 The government of United States a Have an informal discussion, contrasting and com- paring the government of United States with the native governments of your students. h Emphasize principles of democracy. ^ c Kinds of governments: monarchy and republic. (" d Brief study of the Constitution ; what it is and what it contains. 29 3 The divisions of government. a Outline on the blaclcboard a number of things which the national, state, and municipal governments do for American citizens ; and what American citizens do for national, state, and municipal governments. b Five divisions of American government; national, state, county, city and town. c Three branches of each division: legislative, which makes the laws ; executive, which enforces the laws ; judicial, interprets the laws. d Outline on the blackboard the three branches of each division of government. (See syllabus of part 3.) e Show how each branch of each division is selected by the citizens of United States and responsible to the citizens. 4 The rule of the people a Hold a mock election with the members of the class running for governmental offices. b Show specimen ballots and forms used in an election. c Political parties; their purposes. d Nominations for elections. e Political campaigns. / Elections and voting. g Public spirit in voting; how to vote intelligently. 5 American citizenship club a Organize such a club, if the students are far enough advanced to understand and take part in such an organization. A model constitution is given. MODEL CONSTITUTION FOR A SELF-GOVERNING AMERICAN CITIZENSHIP CLUB ARTICLE I Name Section i This club shall be known as the American Citizenship Club of ARTICLE 2 Object Section i The object of this club shall be: a To improve our knowledge of the English language. b' To learn the principles of citizenship so that we may become good and worthy citizens of the United States. c To acquire knowledge of the civic management and conduct of the city, state and nation. 30 d To promote the social and industrial welfare of our members and our community- ARTICLE 3 Membership Section i Any pupil of the class may become a member of the club. ARTICLE 4 Officers Section i The officers of this club shall be president, vice president, secre- tary and advisor. ARTICLE S Section i The president, vice president and secretary shall be elected by a plurality vote of the members of the club present at the time of election. § 2 They shall hold office for a period of two months. § 3 The teacher of the class shall be the advisor of the club. ARTICLE 6 Section i The president shall preside at all meetings, appoint all commit- tees, and see that the constitution is enforced. § 2 The vice president shall, in the absence of the president, perform the duties of that officer. § 3 The secretary shall call the roll at the meetings, keep the minutes of the meetings, and shall attend to all the correspondence of the club. § 4 The duties of the advisor shall be to offer suggestions, render advice and clear up any points of difficulty occurring in the course of discussion. ARTICLE 7 Amendments Section i This constitution shall be capable of amendment at any club meeting by a two-thirds majority of the members then pre.sent. ARTICLE 8 Meetings Section i Meetings shall be held once every week in the classroom, and according to regular parliamentary rules. § 2 Ways and means shall be discussed to increase the enrolment and attendance of the class. § 3 It shall be the responsibility of every member to ascertain the needs and conditions of the community and report them to the club. The club shall undertake with the consent of its advisor to meet community needs and promote its welfare. § 4 The meetings of the club may include talks on civic subjects of the city, state and nation, given by the teacher, by members of the club, by men con- nected with various city departments, and by other public-spirited citizens of the community. § 5 These talks shall Oae followed by discussion on the subject, to be held by the members of the club. ARTICLE 9 Section 6 The principal or supervisor of the school shall be the honorary advisor of the club. Part 3 NATURALIZATION COURSE There is in America an awakened interest in naturalization. A new spirit of citizenship is spreading all over the country. Many- are beginning to realize the necessity and opportunity for imparting a more practical knowledge of the principles and ideals of American government to applicants for naturalization. In several cities a very close cooperation and coordination has been developed between citizenship classes conducted by boards of education and the courts of naturalization. In one city, every man who makes application for citizenship is presented by the clerk of the court with a card which informs him of the educational oppor- tunities in evening schools and advises him to attend. If he is applying for his first paper, he is informed of the regular English classes for immigrants ; if he makes application for his second paper, he is invited to attend the special citizenship classes. Some judges of the naturalization courts cooperate with boards of education and patriotic organizations in arranging for citizenship receptions which are in the form, of a graduation exercise. At certain definite times, an appropriate patriotic program is held either in the court room or in a conveniently located auditorium which the newly naturalized citizens, with their families, friends and witnesses, attend. The public is also invited to these receptions. After some national airs and a formal talk on citizenship by a prominent speaker, each man is in turn proud as his name is called, and his citizenship certificate is publicly presented to him. The program closes with the pledge of allegiance, salute to the flag, and the singing of "America " in unison. This naturalization course, to be used in preparing applicants for naturalization in special classes in American citizenship, has been compiled in the spirit of the new citizenship — the spirit of service and the spirit of a " United America." The best plan for organizing such classes is to secure the names and addresses of naturalization applicants for second papers from the courts of naturalization. Such courts, according to the natural- ization law, are generally county or federal courts (courts of records). The law further states that the names of petitioners with their addresses and nationality must be placed in a conspicuous [31] 32 place by the clerk of the court upon the naturalization docket and hung up for public inspection. The United States Bureau of Natu- ralization has made arrangements to furnish from Washington to certain boards of education the names of applicants who have filed their petition for naturalization. These names can be secured as a mailing list and letters sent direct to the men who need and are eager for civic training in preparation for their naturalization hearing. Ninety days must elapse between the naturalization petition and the final hearing in court. This furnishes the opportunity for organizing every three months one or more special citizenship classes according to the number of applicants. A suggestive letter is given which has proven very effective in enrolling students for such classes. This is modeled after the one used successfvilly in Cleveland, Ohio. CITIZENSHIP CLASSES OF THE FREE PUBLIC NIGHT SCHOOLS board of education Dear Sir: You have made application for your citizenship papers at the clerk's office of naturalization. The city of is interested in you as you. take this step. I In order to become an 'American citizen you must believe in the Constitu- tion of the United States and be familiar with the form of our government so that you may pass an examination before a judge. You will also need to understand the principles of voting. The city of , through its free public night schools, offers you, free of charge, a course in citizen- ship. This course will help you to prepare for the examination. Now is the time for you to join this naturalization class. This course will be weeks long. In addition to the regular lessons by the teacher, there will be talks on citizenship by lawyers, judges and public officials. Several trips will be made to public places of interest, such as the city hall, public library, and county court house. The class will meet evenings. Remember the first session will be evening, [date] at 7.30 p. m. Place: public school If you come that evening we will explain everything to you. Yours for American citizenship (Signed) Supervisor of evening schools P. S. — Be sure to come. It is free. This syllabus, however, can be used for regular citizenship classes organized by general advertising and also as a continuation of part 2, the " advanced course." The instructor of a citizenship class must keep clearly in mind 33 that there are certain motives which move an alien to petition for citizenship. Sometimes it is purely a selfish one, such as securing a license, . obtaining certain employment or being entitled to certain protection. Take ' these selfish motives as a basis and weld with them, the mutual and reciprocal motive of the spirit of the new American citizensliip. The usual answer to the question, " Why do you want to become an American citizen ? " is, " I want to vote J and take part in making the laws." The teacher should, therefore, impress upon the men in his citizenship class that with the privilege of voting comes also certain responsibilities and obligations. The syllabus gives material for emphasizing this point. Outline of Syllabus for Naturalization Course for Civic Training I American Citizenship I Advantages, 2 Responsibilities, 3 Explanation of natural- ization, 4 Procedure of naturalization, 5 Important facts about naturalization. II Principles of Government I Need of government, 2 Kinds of government. III The Government of the United States I Representative republic, 2 Five divisions of American government, 3 Three branches of each division. IV National Government I Constitution of the United States, 2 Three branches of national government, 3 What the government of the United States does for its citizens, 4 What United States means. V State Government I State constitution, 2 State powers, 3 Three branches of state government, 4 What the state does for its citizens. VI County Government I Relation to state, 2 Three branches of county govern- ment, 3 Supervisors, 4 Sheriff, 5 Other county offi- cials and their duties. VII City Government I City charter, 2 Three branches of city government, 3 What the city does for its citizens, 4 Commission form of government. VIII Town Government I Relation to county and state, 2 Three branches of town government, 3 Town board and other town officers. 34 IX American History I Early America, 2 The American Revolution, 3 The new republic, 4 Civil War, 5 America of today, 6 The American flag. X The Rule of the People I Political parties, 2 Nominations for elections, 3 Political campaigns, 4 Elections, 5 Voting, 6 Public spirit in voting XI A citizen of the United States I Diagram of American government, 2 Mock naturaliza- tion hearings, 3 Questions and answers for mock naturalization hearing. Bibliography for Naturalization Course Carr. Become an American Citizen. Immigrant Educational Society, 241 Fifth av., New York City. Cleveland Immigration Bureau. Citizenship Manual for Cleveland. A sample copy for reference can be secured free of charge by addressing the City Immigration Bureau, Cleveland, Ohio. Detroit Board of Commerce. Citizenship Manual. A sample copy can be secured by writing to the Detroit Board of Commerce. Fowler. How to Obtain Citizenship. Sully & Deenteick. A very valuable handbook for every teacher of a naturalization class. Guitteau. Preparing for Citizenship. Houghton. Giambalvo. How to Become a Citizen of United States. Published by author, 26 Court st, Brooklyn, N. Y. Hill & Davis. Civics for New Americans. Houghton. O'Neil. Naturalization Made Easy. A. Carlisle & Co., San Francisco. • Roberts. Civics for Coming Americans. Association Press, 124 E. 28th St., New York City iSc. United States Bureau of Naturalization. Naturalization Laws. Can be secured free on request to bureau at Washington, D. C. SYLLABUS FOR A NATURALIZATION COURSE FOR CIVIC TRAINING I American Citizenship 1 Advantages of American citizenship a Right to vote. b Right to hold public office. c Secure certain employment; civil service. d Protection : life, property and passports. e Privileges: licenses etc. / Citizens of the greatest republic in the world. 2 Responsibilities of American citizenship a Obey and respect the laws. h Be informed on American government. c Fight in time of war. 35 d Serve on a jury. e Vote intelligently. / Take an active part for the welfare of America. 3 Explanation of naturalization o What it is and why it is. b Reasons for required qualifications, such as five years of continuous residence, speak the English language, man of good moral character, not a polygamist or anarchist, beHeve in the Constitution, informed about American laws and government. c Witnesses : their purpose and qualifications, citizens of United States and acquainted with applicant for five continuous years, women, citizens of United States may act as witnesses. Note : Many denials to citizenship have been due to incom- petent witnesses ; emphasize importance of reliable witnesses. 4 Procedure of naturalization o Three steps : declaration of intention, petition for naturalization and certificate of naturalization. b Preliminary hearing after petition for naturalization by United States naturalization examiner. c Final hearing or examination in court. d The oath of allegiance. 5 Important facts about naturalization a Wife and children of naturalized citizens also become citizens. b Alien single women may become citizens. c Privilege of changing name at naturalization for good reason. d Last papers. e Passports. Supplementary suggestions Informal address — " What a Citizen Should Know," by a local well- known judge. " How to Become a Citizen," by a clerk of a naturali- zation court or by a United States naturalization examiner. Literature for class — "Naturalization of Aliens." This pamphlet can be secured for free distribution by addressing National Sons of the American Revolution, Washington, D. C. II Principles of Government I Need of government a Protection for life, liberty and property. b Law and order. c Functions of government which individuals can not perform. 36 2 Kinds of government a Absolute monarchy — the will of one person supreme. b Limited monarchy — the monarch shares his power with a legislative body of the people. c Repviblic — all governmental power in the voter. d The Republic of the United States — government of the people, by the people and for the people. ,Note : Contrast and compare the governments of Europe with that of the United States by questions and answers from the various members of the class. Supplementary suggestions Informal address: "What it Means to be a Citizen of a Republic," by a public-spirited' attorney. Literature for class : " Information for Immigrants Concerning the United States." Printed in nine different languages. This pamph- let can be secured by addressing the National Sons of the Ameri- can Revolution, Washington, D. C. III The Government of the United States 1 A representative republic : voters elect officials to represent them. 2 Five divisions of American government a National. h State. c County. d City. e Town. Note : Follow this explanation with such questions as : In what (state, county and city or town) do you live? Where is the seat of government for each, etc.? 3 Three branches of each division a Legislative — makes the laws. h Executive — enforces the laws. c Judicial — interprets the laws. Note : Ask the following questions : Who makes, enforces and interprets the laws of the United States? Same for State county, city and town. Supplementary suggestions Map study: "Map of United States." Class exercise in locating principal cities, capitols, states and geographical features of United States. Illustrated lecture : " Seeing America First," by a member of the board of education. IV National Government ^-j I The Constitution of the United States a The fundamental law. i Framework of our government. 37 c Drafted by representatives of the people. d Its history. e Powers in relation to interstate, national, and inter- national affairs. / Preamble, " We, the people — to form a more perfect union — ." g To be naturalized, one must believe in the principles of the Constitution of the United States. 2 The three branches of national government a Legislative — Congress ; Senate and House of Repre- sentatives. Membership, qualifications. Duties and powers of each body. b Executive — President. His election, powers and duties; the President's cabinet and presidential succession. c Judicial — Supreme Court; chief justice and eight associates ; their appointment. Circuit courts of appeal and district courts. Note : Use the questions : Who are the Senators from your State? Who is your Representative? Who is the pre- siding officer of the Senate, and also of the House of Repre- sentatives? How does Congress do its work? 3 What the government, of the United States does for its citizens a Coin money. b Establish post offices. c Regtilate commerce, etc. 4 What United States means a States joined into one nation. b First thirteen states. c Forty-eight states. Supplementary suggestions Informal address : " Our National Government," by a congressman or federal official. Illustrated lecture : "A Trip to Our National Capitol," by instructor. Class trip: "Post Office," explanation of functions of local federal offices. " How Uncle Sam Handles Our Mail," talk by local postmaster. Literature for class : " Constitution of the United States," National Sons of the American Revolution, Washington, D. C. V State Government I The State Constitution a Fundamental law for State. b Framework of state government. c No conflict with the Constitution of the United States. 2 State powers a Marriage. b Divorce. c Licenses. d Certain taxes. e Suffrage. / Roads etc. 3 Three branches of state government a Legislative — State Legislature ; two houses. Mem- bership; duties and powers. b Executive — Governor, Lieutenant Governor, state commissions and duties of state officials. Secretary of State, State Comptroller, State Treasurer, Attorney General. c Judicial — Court of Appeals, Supreme Court and other state courts; selection of judges. 4 What the State does for its citizens a Establishes free employment bureau, etc. b Establishes institutions for insane, blind, etc. c Supports public schools and state universities. d Maintains good roads. Supplementary suggestions Informal address : " How the Laws of the State are Made," by a member of State Legislature. Map study : " Map of State.'' Class exercise in locating principal cities and capital of the State, and learning boundaries and geo- graphical features. Division of State into counties. Illustrated lecture: "A Trip to Our State Capitol." VI County Government 1 Relation to state a State divided into counties with a county seat for each. b County composed of cities, villages and towns. 2 Supervisors. a Election. b Duties : supervise enforcement of state laws and in charge of county buildings, roads and bridges. 3 Sheriff a County police officer. b Deputies. 4 County officials and their duties a Auditor — dutFes. b Treasurer — collects state taxes and in charge of county's money. c Recorder — in charge of land records and deeds. d Coroner — investigates violent deaths. e District attorney — county's lawyer. / County clerk — keeps county records. 5 Courts a County court. b Surrogate's court. Supplementary suggestions Informal talk : " Law Enforcement," by sheriff or one of his depu- ties. "How Our Courts are Conducted," by a county judge. Class trip : " County Court House," explanation of purpose of county offices. " How the County Does Its Business," informal talk by a supervisor. VII City Government 1 City charter a Fundamental law for city. b How obtained. c Essentials of framework for city government. 2 Three branches of city government. a Legislative — city council ; councilmen or aldermen elected by people from wards; (commission govern- ment) time of meetings, number, term of office; makes city laws, called ordinances. b Executive — mayor; duties and powers. c Judicial — city or municipal courts. 3 What the city does for its citizens Purpose of : a Department of health. b Department of education. c Department of water supply. d Department for fire protection. e Department of police, and other city departments. Supplementary suggestions Informal talk: "How Our City is Governed," by the mayor or a city official. Class trip: "City Hall and Meeting of City Council," explanation of duties of city officials. " How the City Council Serves the City,'' informal talk by a city official. VIII Town Government r Relation to county and state a County divided into towns. 2 Town board a Election. b Duties — passes ordinances. 3 Constable a Town police officer. 40 4 Justice of the peace a Town judicial officer. h Court of special sessions. Literature for class : Traffic Laws," can be secured, as an example of a city ordinance, for free distribution from' the city clerk. IX American History 1 Early America a Discovery of America by Columbus. h Great explorers — Champlain, DeSoto and others. c The first immigrants and their settlements; Pilgrims, Quakers etc. Note: The instructor will find that one of the most force- ful ways of presenting the subject of American history is through the biographies of America's great men. 2 The American Revolution a Causes of war. h Struggle for liberty. c Life of George Washington. 3 The new republic a Declaration of Independence. h The Constitution of the United States. c Development of the country and its resources ; popu- lation, territorial growth, important inventions and commercial expansion. 4 The Civil War a Slavery. h Life of Abraham Lincoln. c Abolition of slavery. 5 America of today a Life of our present President. h America's possessions. c Problems of our country. d The United States and the great European war. e America's future. 6 The American flag a Description of flag. h Its history. c What it represents. d Pledge of allegiance — "I pledge allegiance to my flag, etc." Supplementary suggestions Illustrated lecture: "Landmarks in American History," by a high school teacher of history. " History of our City," by a member of the local historical society. 41 American holidays : tabulation of them, with an explanation of each. Patriotic songs : Make a list of them on the blackboard with the assistance of the class. Explain what they mean. Sing them. .S; Rule of the People 1 Political parties a Their purpose. b Names of different parties — Democratic, Republican and others. c Their platforms. 2 Nominations for elections. o Party conventions. b Primaries. c Petitions. 3 Political campaigns a Purpose. b How conducted. c Meetings, posters, circulars and newspapers. 4 Elections a National. b State. c City. 5 Voting a Qualifications. b Registration. c Secret ballot. 6 Public spirit in voting a Voting, both a privilege and a duty. b Voting for public welfare. c Necessity of being informed on public affairs. Note: Every teacher must be tactful in presentation of this material in order not to be partisan. One of the main reasons ahens desire to be naturalized is in order to vote. However, very few books on civics for foreigners give any attention to this subject. Every one who has worked in aa election booth realizes the need of such instruction for naturalized citizens, both for their welfare and the welfare of our democracy. Supplementary suggestions Mock election: Hold a mock election, with members of the class running for government offices. Informal talk: "Election," by a member of the local board of elections. Exhibit: Show specimen ballots and forms used in an election. Class trip : Visit to a local newspaper plant. 42 XI A Citizen of the United States I Summary of American government Note: With the assistance of the class, construct on the blackboard the following diagram according to local conditions under the three branches of government with the side headings of national, state, county, city and town government. THE PEOPLE FUNDAMENTAL LAWS U .S. Constitution \ State Constitution | City Cliarter Divisions of Government I Legislative II Executive III Judicial NATIONAL (Capitol, Washington, D. C.) Congress 1 Senate 2 House of Repre- sentatives (Meets every year in December) President Duties: U.S. Supreme Court U. S. Circuit Court of Appeals U. S. District Courts STATE (Capitol, Albany) State Legislature 1 Senate 2 Assembly (Meets every year in January) Governor Duties: Court of Appeals Supreme Court and other State Courts COUNTY (County seat Supervisors (Meets every year in November) Supervisors with Sheriff Duties: County Court Surrogates Court CITY (City hall....) City Council (Meets according to Charter) Mayor Duties: Municipal Courts TOWN Town Board Town Board with Constables Court of Special Sessions Mock naturalization hearing Note: The instructor should attend a regular naturaliza- tion hearing in order to secure first-hand information for coii- ducting such an exercise. If possible, secure the cooperation of a public-spirited lawyer or a representative from the naturalization court to assist. a Characters necessary: judge, baihff, clerk of the court, United States naturalization examiner, wit- nesses, and naturalization applicants. Note: A very profitable and most interesting occasion may be had with only members of the class acting as the various characters, if the instructor gives each one participat- ing a careful explanation of his part and arouses the proper spirit 43 b Questions to ask: Note : In addition to the regular personal questions asked (what is your name, how long have you lived in America, where is your wife? etc.), by the naturalization examiner, the following questions on government have been compiled for use at this time. Questions and answers for mock naturalization hearing Q. What is the form of our government ? A. We have a repub- Hcan form of government. Q. Who rules this country? A. The people. Q. What is a republic? A. A country in which the people elect their own officers. ■ Q. What is a monarchy? A. A country ruled by a king or emperor. Q. How are these kings and emperors elected ? A. They are not elected, but obtain their office through inheritance. Q. How many states are there in the United States? A. Forty- eight. Q. What is the name of our State ? A. State of Q. What is the name of our county? A. County of Q. What is the name of our city ? A. City of Q. What is the fundamental law of this country ? A. The Con- stitution of the United States. Q. Who made the Constitution ? A. The people through the dele- gates of the first thirteen states. Q. What are the three branches of the government of United States ? A. The three branches are : ( i ) legislative — which makes the laws, congress; (2) executive — which enforces the laws. Presi- dent; (3) judicial — which interprets the laws. United States courts. Q. Who makes the laws for the United States? A. Congress. Q. Where does Congress meet? A. In Washington, D. C, the capital of the United States. Q. Of what is Congress composed ? A. Of two houses : Senate and House of Representatives. Q. What is the Senate, and what are its members called? A. The Senate is the upper house of Congress and its members are called Senators. Q. What is the House of Representatives, and what are its mem- bers called? A. It is the lower house of Congress and its members are called Congressmen. O. How is the Senate composed? A. Two Senators are elected from each state for six years. 44 Q. Who elects the two Senators from your State? A. The people. Q. Who are your Senators? A. (Applicant should know their names.) Q. How is the House of Representatives composed? A. Each state is divided into districts and each district elects one Repre- sentative. Q. Who elects the Representatives and for what period? A. The voters of each district elect its Representative Congressman for a period of two years. Q. In what congressional district do you live? A. (Applicant should fill this out.) Q. Who is your Congressman? A. (Applicant should know this.) Q. Who is the head of the government of the United States? A. The President. Q. What other office does the President hold? A. He is also Commander in Chief of the United States Army and Navy. Q. How is the President elected? A. By presidential electors, who are elected by the voters of the different states. Q. How many electors are there? A. As many as there are Senators and Congressmen together. Q. For how long is the President elected? A. For four years. Q. What is the name of our President? A. (Fill in.) Q. If the President dies, who will take his place? A. The Vice President of the United States. Q. How is the Vice President elected? A. In the same way as the President. Q. What office does the Vice President hold in the Senate? A. He is President of the United States Senate. Q. What is the highest court in the United States? A. The Supreme Court. Q. How many judges are there in the United States Supreme Court? A. Nine; one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. Q. Who selects them? A. They are appointed by the President for life. Q. Who makes the laws for the states ? A. The state legislature of each state. Q. Who is the chief executive officer of a state? A. The governor. Q. Who elects the governor and for how long? A. The voters of most states elect their governor for two years. Q. What is the name of the governor of your state? A. (Applicant should kmw this.) 45 Q. Where does he reside? A. In , the capital of Q. Who makes the laws for the city? A. The city council or board of aldermen (commission government). Q. How is your city council created ? A. The city is divided into wards and each ward elects men to represent it in the council (commission government). Q. How many wards are there in your city? A. (Number.) Q. In what ward do you live? A. (Applicant should find this out and fill in.) Q. Who is your councilman? A. (Applicant should know this.) Q. For how long is a councilman elected ? A. For years. Q. Who is the chief executive of the city ? A. The mayor (com- mission government). Q. Who elects him? A. The voters of the city. Q. For how long is he elected ? A. For years. Q. What is the name of your mayor? A. Fill in his name. . . . .• Supplementary suggestions Class trip : " Public Library," informal talk by librarian. " The Use and Purpose of the Public Library/' distribution of applica- tion blanks for library cards. Show class where books are kept which they can draw from the library for enlarging their knowl- edge of civics. Citizenship reception : An exercise to welcome the newly naturalized citizens, consisting of patriotic music, addresses and special features. A response of appreciation by one of the new citizens should be arranged for. '^\ ^TM' mm UMlVERSiTY!!