As a nation wrought from immigrants, the debate regarding what it is to be an “American” given recent immigration surges has become highly complex. Given the importance of immigration policy on the current national agenda and the agenda of Latinos, this assignment is designed to get you thinking about the immigration process as it is, and how it could be reformed.
For each question, include a one-page response (single spaced) to each question. Include proper citations for resources consulted and cited in your responses.
1) Please complete the official U.S. citizenship practice test at this link
Take the test in earnest (no Google!) to see just how much you know. This is an exercise in self-exploration; the number right or wrong will NOT affect your grade. Print the page with your score on it at the end of the test and turn it in with your assignment.
In a one page response, consider whether most natural born American citizens would be able to answer most of the questions posed on the test. Is the content of these questions relevant to being a U.S. citizen? What question would you add to the U.S. citizenship test that you believe would be essential knowledge for naturalizing citizens to know/understand? Should all U.S. citizens (natural born or immigrant) be required to take this test? What is your response (general impressions) to this exercise?
2) Research what it takes to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. In a one-page response, discuss what it takes to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. What are the requirements? How long does it take? What are the required resources, etc.? What are possible routes to naturalization? Be as thorough as possible. You will be graded on how deeply you are able to engage in a discussion of the process.
3) If you could reform the immigration (based on question #2): make an argument as to what you would change, how you’d change it and why it is necessary to change it? If you believe it is perfect as it is, make an informed argument as to why it should remain the same. Please back up with theoretical and empirical evidence. Include citations for any material you include.