Here is a map of the United States of America. It is a big country, about 3,000 miles across. The colors show each state. There are 50 states in all. Can you find yours?

Millions of people live in the United States. People have different ideas and religions. They are of many races and come from many different places. They have different talents and languages.

But everyone wants to have a good life, with food, shelter and good health. They need to have jobs to pay for their homes, food, education, health care and even vacation.

The government of the United States is a big organization that tries to help make all these things possible. It works in many different ways. For example, it helps build roads and schools, makes rules to protect the environment, supports the army and makes sure our food and water are safe.

People have disagreements and they need help to settle problems. The government provides courts with judges who listen to problems and decide what is fair according to law.

Imagine what your school would be like if it had no rules and no one to  protect you from bullies?

You might be afraid to go out to recess. People would steal your lunch money. Each class would make its own rules. Small children would always lose out to larger ones.Who would get to use the gym if two classes wanted to play at the same time?

It would be very confusing, unpleasant or even dangerous. This is why schools have rules that protect students and keep things running smoothly. In the same way, the government brings order to America.

• Builds roads
• Creates schools
• Delivers the mail
• Pays police and firefighters
• Collects taxes
• Provides Army and Navy
• Settle disputes in court

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