Citizenship tests – how to prepare for one

What do the stripes on the U.S. flag mean? For born American citizens who do not have to take the U.S. Naturalization Test, the answer may just be that they represent the 13 original states. But for immigrants wishing to be naturalized and Chicago-based groups wishing to help them, these stripes also mean hours of preparation through community-organized classes, mock-interviews and online practice tests.
The written U.S. Naturalization Test checks for the ability to read, write, and speak basic English, as well as for basic knowledge of U.S. civics. Subsequently an interview is held by an officer again testing these same skills by having the test-taker read up to three sentences in English and write up to three dictated sentences in English.  The officer will also ask ten civics questions. In September 2007, the test was redesigned with an overhaul of the reading and writing section and 100 new civics questions. The new test went into effect October 2008. Those taking the test in the transition year can choose to take either the old or new test until October 2009.
The U.S. Citizenship and Services website has a list of study materials for the English portion and civics portion that includes flashcards and a vocabulary list. Those who wish to take the test can make an appointment online at the local Chicago U.S. Citizenship and Services site at 101 W. Congress Parkway. Naturalization interviews are conducted on Saturdays, Sundays and after business hours on weekdays
Groups like the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights offer free classes to help prepare for the test, through courses and mock-interviews held at various cultural institutes around the city. Jewish Child and Family Services also offers volunteer-led eight-week long evening citizenship classes at suburban locations. Daytime classes are also offered for seniors. These classes also provide training for the interview.