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Section 5-1
Objectives
After studying this section, you will be able to
•
explain the importance of being an informed citizen and exercising
your right to vote.
•
describe the purpose of taxes.
•
consider why community involvement is important to individuals,
especially teens.
Key Term
Citizenship
volunteers
You are a citizen of your city or town, your state, and your country.
As a citizen, you have certain rights and responsibilities. You have a
right to enjoy the freedoms that are protected by laws. You have the
responsibilities of becoming informed, voting, obeying laws, paying
taxes, and protecting the environment. Fulfi lling your responsibilities
will help you protect your rights and the rights of others.
To Be Informed
You have a right to information about the world around you. You
have a responsibility to use that information to be an informed citizen.
Laws and government policy affect how you live. You need to be
aware of how new and revised laws and policies might affect your
rights and the rights of others. For instance, a change in the education
policy could affect the schools you attend. Factors in the economy can
limit your ability to fi nd a job and purchase goods and services. New
environmental standards will affect the air you breathe and the water
you drink. International events can alter your sense of security.
As an informed citizen, you can work to resist negative conditions
and make positive changes. When you are knowledgeable, you can
speak to other citizens about issues that concern you. You can write to
your political leaders to express your views. By being informed, you can
take steps to defend your rights. See 5-1.
Practice key terms with
crossword puzzles,
matching activities, and
e-fl ash cards for Chapter 5
at the website.
ompanion
Website
www.g-wlearning.com