CIVICS STANDARD FOUR: Students will develop and employ the civic skills necessary for effective, participatory citizenship [Participation].

Enduring Understandings
Students will understand that:

• Effective citizens can research issues, form reasoned opinions, support their positions, and engage in the political process.
• Effective governance requires responsible participation from diverse individuals who translate beliefs and ideas into lawful action and policy.

There is a change in focus from understanding to skills with the fourth standard, but understanding is necessary to show evidence of such skills on the test.  Why is still important, but how and what have equal billing on this standard.  Why does a citizen participate?  How does a citizen participate in democracy?  What does a citizen do? 

Civics Standard Four requires students to demonstrate and use effectively the skills of a citizen.  Such skills include, but are not limited to: registering to vote; interacting successfully with government agencies; organizing and working in civic groups; researching and advocating a position; or serving in an office of public trust.  Teachers should use activities in the classroom which simulate or model the skills.