Is chapter 1 of the Life in the UK handbook in the test?

Is chapter 1 of the Life in the UK handbook in the test?

Yes. The handbook says the test questions are based on all parts of it. So chapter 1 can come up, and you should study it.

Some websites say only chapters 2 to 5 are tested. The handbook itself does not say that, and the government test page says you are tested on information in the handbook. Trust the handbook.

What is in chapter 1?

Chapter 1 is about 1,100 words. That is about 3 percent of the book, so you can read it in one sitting.

It holds four things. It explains the values and principles of British life. It lists what you are asked to do, and what the UK offers in return. It describes the steps towards permanent residence. It also explains the test.

The test part tells you what to expect. It has 24 questions, you have 45 minutes, and the handbook adds that you do not need to remember dates of birth and death.

What are the five principles?

The handbook names five principles of British life: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance of people with different faiths and beliefs, and taking part in community life.

A memory hook: split them into two groups. Two are about how the country is run, which are democracy and the rule of law. Three are about how people live together, which are liberty, tolerance and taking part.

The handbook also says there is no place in British society for extremism or intolerance.

What is the pledge?

New citizens say a pledge at the ceremony. In short, you promise four things: loyalty to the UK, respect for its rights and freedoms, support for its democratic values, and faithful obedience to its laws, with your duties as a citizen.

Learn the pledge as a story with four steps: be loyal, be respectful, be democratic, be law-abiding. You do not need to know it word for word to understand it.

What do you give, and what do you get?

This pair is the part people mix up. The handbook has two lists, and they sound alike.

You are asked to respect and obey the law, to respect the rights of others and their right to their own opinions, to treat others fairly, to look after yourself and your family, and to look after your area and the environment. These are your duties.

In return, the UK offers freedom of belief and religion, freedom of speech, freedom from unfair discrimination, a right to a fair trial, and a right to join in electing a government. These are your freedoms.

A simple trick: duties are things you do, freedoms are things you have. If a sentence starts with an action you perform, it is a duty. If it names something that protects you, it is a freedom.

Why do people skip chapter 1?

It is short and it sounds like common sense. But short chapters are quick marks if you have studied them. Read chapter 1 on the values and principles chapter page, then test yourself.

If you are new to the handbook, read the five chapters of the Life in the UK handbook for a map of the whole book. If your copy is old, check which edition of the Life in the UK handbook you need.

When you have read the chapter, sit the free practice test and see how it feels.

Check yourself

Can you list the five principles from memory?

Can you say which of the two lists is your duties, and which is your freedoms?

What are the four promises in the pledge?