Materials for Library Programs

A compilation of web resources useful in developing course plans for classes aimed at educating patrons on the naturalization process<--break->


Overview


USCIS Course Development Content

Offers teaching resources, workshops, classroom tools, and background information on naturalization available to assist those running courses on the immigration process. In addition to what is listed below, there are also extensive resources on ESL education, links to adult literacy organizations, and videos on the immigration process. All of the below, plus additional content, can be found at http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/citizenship

Training Resources

  • Documents on citizenship foundation skills and knowledge clusters
  • A start up guide to expanding ESL, civics, and citizenship education in your community
  • A report on current practices of libraries, and links to sources describing basics of teaching adult literacy

Workshops

  • Workshops are offered in various field offices across the country every couple of weeks.
  • These classes cover skills needed to teach U.S. history, civics, and the naturalization process to immigrant students, the basics of the naturalization interview and test, the naturalization process, and teaching objectives.
  • Registration is required.

Classroom Tools

Essential Documents

Citizenship Foundation Skills and Knowledge Clusters [pdf]

This is “a short booklet highlighting the knowledge and skills needed for students to be successful on the naturalization interview and test.”

Expanding ESL, Civics, and Citizenship Education in Your Community: A Start-Up Guide [pdf]

Includes information on:

  • Recruiting volunteers
  • Developing content
  • Carrying out a needs assessment of your students

There are also several helpful forms to use in your classes, including evaluation forms, class schedules, and program development plans. In addition, an extensive page of links to outside resources extends the reach of the guide.

Content includes:

  • Program Design and Structure: Setting the Course for Your Program
    • Establishing a Program Framework and Mission
    • Program Structure
    • Class Size
    • Instructional Approach
  • Staffing and Resources: Finding and Supporting Your Volunteers
  • Program Content & Instruction: Determining Student Educational Needs What & How to Teach
    • Needs Assessment
    • Topics Often Included in ESL/Civics Instruction
    • Teaching Resources/Techniques
  • Sample Forms
    • Program Development Plans
    • Class Schedule
    • Volunteer Position Description
    • Volunteer ESL Teacher/Tutor Agreement
    • Student Intake Form
    • Student Placement Card
    • Student Needs Assessment
    • Volunteer Evaluation
    • Student Program Evaluation
  • Resource Directory
  • USCIS Program Content
  • Beginning and Intermediate Level Lesson Plans

Examples of topics:

  • U.S. History Since 1900 (Beginner)
  • Abraham Lincoln (Beginner)
  • Civil War (Beginner)
  • Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branches (Intermediate)

Resources from Non-Profits


Sample Course Plans