Fact & Comment

Why the civics test for naturalization should be made a core course in our nation’s schools.

Knowing the fundamentals of our government and history is essential to being an informed and effective citizen. Yet few Americans today know the basics about their country—that is, its history and how its government works. Having an elementary knowledge of what makes the United States tick, so to speak, and why the U.S. has been a magnet and an inspiring example to countless numbers of people around the world for more than two centuries, are important for Americans to understand, and that’s why we require those immigrants who want to become citizens to study for and pass a test on these crucial elements.

For years, however, most of our schools have been derelict in teaching kids what used to be called “civics,” the fundamentals of U.S. history and our system of government. This abysmal ignorance is shocking.

There is a simple solution: Have our schools teach civics based on the naturalization test given to immigrants who want to become citizens. Before being granted citizenship, an immigrant must learn the essentials of the United States’ form of government and critical events in the country’s history. In the latest version of the exam, a candidate must study and absorb answers to 128 questions, 20 of which could be asked on the test. One must get at least 12 answers correct to pass.

Areas of study on the naturalization test include American government, U.S. history and American symbols and holidays. Questions can include: Name one thing the U.S. Constitution does. What does the Bill of Rights protect? Why is the Declaration of Independence important? Why are there three branches of government? What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress? Describe one of the four amendments to the U.S. Constitution that concern voting rights. There are history questions as well: What is one thing Benjamin Franklin is famous for? Name one reason that the Americans declared independence from Britain. Why did the U.S. enter World War II? Why is Martin Luther King Jr. famous?

The questions about symbols and holidays are varied: Why does the flag have 13 stripes? Where is the Statue of Liberty? What is Veterans Day?

It’s shameful that newly minted Americans know far more about their new country than most of us who are born citizens.

The civics test for naturalization should be made a core course in our schools.