American Citizenship

While a citizen is simply defined as a person who is recognized as a legal member of a nation, this excellent and affordable video points out that being a "good" citizen involves a whole lot more. With the aid of a few energetic elementary-aged kids of various ethnicities, as well as an engaging young adult host, American Citizenship teaches viewers that good citizenship is based on respect, courtesy, and service to others. While the right to speech, property ownership, and democratic participation in the highest levels of government have long been cherished benefits of American citizenship, this program, which also looks at immigration and naturalization, stresses that with rights come responsibilities (such as jury duty). Although there are moments of unabashed patriotism (“you're a member of the best club in the world!”), the video does not shy away from the sordid history of America's denial of rights to minority groups, including women and African-Americans. The accompanying teacher's guide, which builds nicely on the video's content, is also sensitive to students who may not be American citizens. One in the six-volume series American Government for Children, the other titles are: The History of American Government, A History of the Presidency, The Three Branches of Government, What Is Government? and Federal, State and Local Government. Enthusiastically and highly recommended, this is also an Editor's Choice. Aud: E, I, J. (E. Gieschen)