Civics is a subject that is often overlooked in K-12 education. However, it is a crucial part of understanding how our country works and how citizens can participate in our democratic system. In fact, 67% of parents and 75% of teachers share a strong desire to see greater emphasis on civics education according to the US Department of Education [1]. Learning civics helps students develop the skills needed to be an informed and engaged member of society.
Civics Education and Knowledge
Civics education is all about fostering an understanding of the United States government, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the importance of civic engagement. According to the 2021 Annenberg Civics Knowledge Survey, only 56% of Americans could name all three branches of government [2]. It helps students develop the skills and knowledge to be informed and knowledgeable citizens, as well as teaches them how to think critically and analytically. This type of education is especially important in today’s world, as it provides a foundation for understanding the complexities of current events.
Learning civics helps students become more informed and aware of the issues facing our society. It allows them to understand the different branches of government, the role of the Supreme Court, the role of the presidency, the Constitution, and more. It also helps them to understand the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and how they can participate in their local, state, and national government.
The Importance of Voting
Civics education also helps students to understand the importance of voting. It teaches them the value of participating in elections and being an informed voter. It encourages them to think about the issues that matter to them and to be informed on the candidates and their platforms. In addition, civics education helps students understand the importance of volunteering in their community and how they can make a difference. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation states that “the root of a good governance is and always will be good citizenship informed by civic literacy [3].
Civic Pride and Responsibility
Finally, civics education helps to foster a sense of civic pride and responsibility. It helps students to understand their place in the world and how they can contribute to making it a better place. It encourages them to think critically and to become involved in their community.
Civics education is an important part of K-12 education. It helps students to become informed and engaged citizens, and to understand the complexities of our government and our society. It also encourages them to participate in their local, state, and national government, and to be an informed and involved voter. Learning civics is essential for the development of informed and engaged citizens, and it is an important part of any K-12 curriculum.
[1] https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED616085.pdf
[2] https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/2021-annenberg-constitution-day-civics-survey/
[3] https://www.uschamberfoundation.org/civics-education
