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These three ideas make up  my basic understanding of civics. The past six units are evidence of that. This course has taught me a lot. I have a better understanding of government and why things are the way they are. I'm more informed and grounded. I will be a better citizen because of it.

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knowing every vote counts.

Knowing every vote counts is important to  a citizen. This idea encourages voter turnout and emphasizes that there is power in the people. Voting ties into the other two ideas. It is part of our civic responsibility to vote. Understanding this idea highlights why we should vote.

Application: 5.3: Get Out and Vote!

Because of this assignment, I was able to gain a better understanding of why we should vote. I had to find reasons that encouraged voting, one of which is every vote counts. This connects back to what civics is. It justified why you should vote and that it does matter.

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understanding how your government operates.

It’s an important idea because understanding allows us to stay informed. It allows us to be responsible citizens. Understanding the government gives us power and prevents us from being taken advantage of.

Application: 3.3: Six Principles of Government.

This assignment required me to research the foundation of our government. Understanding the foundation gives me insight as to how the government should run, why things the way they are, and to form my own views.

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understanding your rights and responsibilities as a citizen.

This is an important idea because all citizens agree to a social contract. To live in a society, you must live with other people. Understanding this idea helps guide you in a society to be a functioning citizen.

Application: 5.2: My Rights End Where Yours Begin https://docs.google.com/document/d/1C5szCKRcZkuviubLb35OmoWyG09lv6bLjsgtmSXRL2I/edit?usp=sharing

The assignment demonstrates that by showing how we have to give up some rights to live in a society. I had to explain how we must act responsibly with our rights. We can’t live on our own free will without hurting others, which is why we give up some rights. It helped me understand the rights I do have and their limits.