Remember that when you say, ‘I will have none of this exile and this stranger, for his face is not like my face and his speech is strange,’ you have denied America with that word.

 ~ Stephen Vincent Benet

Goal: To explore the effects of immigration on the United States

Objectives: 

• Students will predict the continuing impact of immigration on the United States
• Students will examine facts regarding the impact of immigrants in the United States, particularly on the social welfare system and the economy as a whole
• Students will learn about the process of naturalization
• Students will discuss the complexity of assimilation and cultural diversity

Time Frame: One to two class periods

Age Level: Middle school to adult

Vocabulary: Naturalization, Public Benefits

Relevant Subject Areas and Connection to the Minnesota State High School Standards:

• Social Studies: Diverse Perspectives, Community Interaction
• Economic and Business: Economic Systems