The tests immigrants must take before obtaining citizenship has needed an overhaul for a long time. A new one is about to come out, according to this story in the Christian Science Monitor:
It will continue to be an oral test, conducted in English, and will have 10 questions. Six correct answers will earn a passing grade. But the content, which is tightly under wraps, is expected to shun simple historical facts about America that can be recounted in a few words for more explanation about the principles of American democracy, such as freedom.
When I was a student, six out of ten on a test earned me a grade of “D” — and just barely. But for some people, even this is asking too much:
The changes raise the bar – critics say too high – for immigrants to show not only that they care enough to study for a test, but also that they understand and share American values.
I certainly don’t think these tests should be excrutiatingly difficult–immigrant naturalization is a tool of cultural assimilation–but those who argue for lower standards should state their view plainly: They don’t think there should be a test at all.