Learning the Anthem After the Canadian Citizenship Test

Posted on January 8, 2011 by admin
Among the many new things to explore and learn when becoming a new citizen of a given country, the national anthem is one of the most important and can also lend a great sense of belonging and national identity to a recent immigrant. Those who journey to Canada in the quest to become a Canadian will find that the country’s national anthem is fairly simple and easy to learn, and those who take the time to understand and memorize the lyrics are likely to experience a sense of respect and friendship among their fellow citizens. The Canadian national anthem is sung prior to most major sporting events, and may also appear on special national holidays or at national celebrations. With versions in both French and English, the most common version is an English translation of the French original which bears some resemblance to the first draft of the piece, though its similarities are not exact. After passing the Canadian citizenship test and settling into a new home and daily life, new Canadians can learn the national anthem ìO, Canadaî to help solidify their new status and incorporate national traditions into their own consciousness.

The Canadian national anthem was first created in the late nineteenth century with the composition of a piece of music to go with a poem that had previously been written by a poet and judge. The modern version of the anthem, however, was not officially recognized until as late as 1980, though various forms of the song were used as standard anthems leading up to this point. Most modern immigrants interested in Canada are likely to recognize the modern version of the anthem, either from popular culture or through the presentation of medals accompanying the song at the Olympics.

A fairly short song comprise of only one verse, the Canadian national anthem isn’t too challenging to learn, and newcomers are likely to find that native Canadians are more than happy to help with lyrics or with the melody of the piece when asked. After taking the Canadian citizenship test and holding a successful interview with a citizenship judge, immigrants are invited to a citizenship ceremony, and are likely to encounter the anthem during this special event. Being well-prepared to join in and sing the anthem can lend special meaning and sentiment to the ceremony, and is bound the make the experience feel more personal.

As one of the most well-known national anthems in the world, ìO, Canadaî is a popular tune that some immigrants will discover they already know, for the most part, upon arrival. Whether brushing up on the lyrics or learning the song for the first time,, however, new citizens who become acquainted with the Canadian national anthem are likely to discover that the simple fact of knowing and occasionally joining in on a round of the song can instill a great sense of national pride and belonging in the heart and mind of any newcomer.

Posted in Canadian Life | Tagged , , | 5 Comments

Canadian Citizenship and the Meaning of Integration

Posted on December 21, 2010 by admin

Immigrating to a new land may mean many different things to different people, and personal experiences and ideas about the journey of moving oneself or one’s family to a new country vary greatly. In many instances, it is the vision of a better life that leads immigrants to seek out a space in differing lands, and immigration is often associated with a remarkable amount of effort and the strength of will necessary to start anew in a foreign country. Sometimes, however, immigrants who stay focused on their own goals and objectives in their new country of residence may find little to no time to take advantage of many of the country’s perks, and may not choose to become involved in the nation’s organization or social culture. Though it is understandable that newcomers’ first thoughts and actions are reserved for themselves, the passage of time can create increasing challenges for those who remain in a state of isolation. In Canada, where scores of immigrants travel each year looking for new opportunities, this isolation can sometimes be detrimental to the overall success of the very people who work hard to achieve it.

Integration is an essential step for newcomers in any country, and thankfully, those who decide on Canada as their destination can benefit from the many immigrants who have become citizens themselves and represent a broad range of distinct backgrounds and traditions. Allowing newcomers to identify with others on many levels while also learning about different perspectives and ideas, this diversity is a major national treasure in Canada. Immigrants may be able to enjoy some progress with integration shortly after arriving, particularly in the many immigrant communities that exist in each province. Yet it is difficult, if not impossible, to truly integrate oneself in the spirit and society of the country without first achieving citizenship status. One of the most important steps involved in this achievement is taking the Canadian citizenship test, particularly because it requires that test-takers learn about Canada’s history and administration, along with many aspects of its culture. Through learning about the country in-depth, newcomers are able to establish more understanding with the population at large, and can enjoy an easier integration process as a result.

No matter the distance or other major factors involved, immigration isn’t especially easy in most cases, and the process can weigh on the emotions of people attempting to re-start their lives in a new place. Sometimes, the idea of integration can seem to threaten personally connections with other countries and people, but on reflection, many people come to realize that documents themselves cannot perform such deeds, and only people can be held responsible for keeping in touch with their pasts –or turning away from their backgrounds completely. Integration is often not the first thing on the minds of busy and excited people carrying out the phases of their immigration to Canada, but in time, this essential part of life in a new place should become a focus.

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Worrying Failing Rates in Etobicoke

Posted on December 10, 2010 by gorlop

With the introduction of the new citizenship test in October 14 this year the failing rates all around the Nation had increase in a worrying manner. It is calculated that Canada has 32-35% failing rate in the new citizenship test making the regional office swim in loads of work and citizenship judges interviews in an attempt to resolve those failures by the book. As you may know there are no second chances in Canada, so once the test has been failed the applicant needs to have an interview with the local citizenship Judge who will decide the fate of the application.

A survey was launched to all centers to test the rate in which the applicants where standing. The results showed one failure every four applicants all around Canada. What surprises the officers was that in Toronto the rate was even higher, Etobicoke showed one failure every three applicants putting it in the top of the list.

The speaker of the immigration and citizenship office Karen Shadd explained that the problem is related to a poor education more than a language factor related to this failures. Karen also stated that the pool of questions is being shuffled more frequently in an attempt to stop fraud within the citizenship test. It was well known that there was a question answers trade with the old test where an applicant paid for the answers and memorized them in order to achieve passing score. The new test should be a fix for that issue and a more adequate testing guidelines for new citizens, she said.

When the old test was failed the applicant had to face an one hour interview with a judge and literally discuss whether they deserve to acquire citizenship or not, now with a one every 3 failing rate the office will be under water. In the past with the early implementation the applicant was offered a rewrite of the test shifting from the old test to the new. Too bad those early days are over and now the test is in full capacity in all centers.

The test consist in 20 questions with a 75% passing score, similar to Australia and the UK citizenship tests but in Canada’s case with a much higher failure rate. Now being Toronto one of our country major cities what does this failing rate tell us? Will the test change any time soon? We will see….

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New Citizenship Test Failure Rates Up in the Sky

Posted on December 8, 2010 by admin

The new citizenship Test has been implemented since October 14. This is a change that took almost half a year to hit the test centers and the citizenship application all over Canada. As you may well know the former test based on the much shorter and simpler guide had a 60% passing score which meant 12 questions out of the 20 the test holds. The new test is part of the renewal of the citizenship application, with it a new guide was introduced called Discover Canada. The new test has a 75% passing score and no mandatory questions as its former version.

With this the Canadian citizenship and immigration office was aiming to enhance the naturalization process with the result of a much prepared new citizen that hold the values and history of its new country. The shocking result was the rocket of failings the whole country got in the very first weeks of application of the new test. The rates well exceeded the 30% fail rate in major cities.

The Officials at the test centers are shocked with the results “The highest failing rate we ever had since the test was introduced” said one officer to our sources. The truth is that for the citizenship and immigration offices failures are more complicated that a passing score. The naturalization process stipulates that the citizenship test can be taken only once per application. There was the possibility of a retake when the new test was introduced back in October 14 but that was just an exceptional situation. When a test is failed the policy is to set up a live interview with the area citizenship Judge for him to decide the fate of the citizen wannabe.

The over load the citizenship Judges have these days can only be compared to a General Motors Tier 2 Call Center where the recalls and manufacturer failures are abundant. Each interview takes between 20 to 30 minutes, the judge needs to start questioning the applicant on the test failures and review the residency and paperwork files to take a decision. It is usually more of a merry reunion with the future citizen, now imagine the judge starts having 20 to 30 interviews a day…My conclusion is a very frustrated judge not keen to let many off the hook. So My advice to you all, STUDY HARD!

The new guide is more complex and complete than the older one. In fact since its implementation the residents continued studying from the old guide in an attempt of passing the old test, only logical. Now the situation has adjusted, the new guide and the new test. Is this a way to stop the massive Naturalization in Canada? The citizenship and immigration office process around 150,000 tests per year which equals more or lest the number of new citizens. Now with a 33-35% failing rate the offices will be caught up with paperwork and interviews, will this result in a delay of the application process? Will it take more than a year for a resident to become Canadian?

We are still watching the unfolding of events to be able to answer that question. As of now we know the citizenship Judges are not that happy with the new test. And the whole test experience has turned to be much more stressful. Our every day advice is: Practice Practice Practice!!!!

Posted in News, Opinion | Tagged , , | 11 Comments

Canada’s View of Non-Citizens

Posted on December 2, 2010 by gorlop

When traveling from one place to the next, people who keep an eye on the attitudes and perspectives on newcomers are sure to find a number of different points of view. Some countries have a harsh opinion of outsiders, potentially suspecting them of having negative intentions for being in the country, or may worry that immigrants and long-term visitors will pose a threat to the ability of natives to find work or take advantage of social programs. On the other hand, there are many nations that openly welcome immigrants and visitors enjoying the range of ideas and experiences that such people are able to bring to their land. Yet even in such open and friendly nation,s, tensions and difficulties can become great when native populations expect that immigrants will eventually seek citizenship while immigrants themselves have no intention of doing so. Canada is often singled out for its kind treatment of newcomers, and those who approach its shores and borders for the first time will be delighted with the positive attitudes that most residents harbor towards them. In time, however, immigrants who decline to take the citizenship test and apply for legal permanent status may encounter negative opinions and an increasing level of difficulty as they attempt to make a living and live out a prosperous and enjoyable existence.

The national Canadian view of non-citizens is generally positive by necessity; as a relatively young country that enjoys a great deal of territory and the need for increasingly complex infrastructure, Canada has benefited greatly from the roles that immigrants have played throughout its history. Many people who currently hold citizenship status in Canada were once immigrants themselves, or have close memories of family members who made the journey from other lands to join in Canada’s growth as a country. As a result, opinions of newcomers tend to be warm and welcoming, yet as with any setting, it is certainly possible to wear out one’s welcome in Canada. Some immigrants may not feel the need to apply for citizenship, or may be intimidated by the challenges that the process sometimes presents. By declining to attain citizenship, however, immigrants can send the message to Canadians that they’re only interested in benefiting from life in the country, and have no intentions of helping to improve the social or political landscape, either through adding their opinions and ideas or by paying taxes that support special programs and initiatives.

Through sending this message to natives, immigrants sometimes invite criticism of their status, as residents may become angry about the idea that they’re contributing to the welfare of others without receiving anything of the same sort in return. Immigrants must often take the time to consider why they’re reluctant to achieve citizenship in such cases, and may wish to discuss the process and its benefits with others who have been in the same situation in order to gain insight. Though not right for everyone, Canadian citizenship is often a wise choice that helps foster positive views of foreigners.

Posted in Citizenship Rights | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments

Shaping and Being Shaped by Canadian Citizenship

Posted on November 25, 2010 by gorlop

When thinking about citizenship at its meaning within a person’s life, people are likely to consider how such a status can personally affect them. From affording greater opportunities to making travel and other processes a great deal easier, citizenship is typically appreciated for the way in which it influences individual lives. Yet in most parts of the world, citizenship implies a mutual relationship between a person and the state in which they live and work, and having permanent legal status means that people can expect to interact with the operation and other aspects of the country rather than being a mere recipient of its benefits. In Canada, where extensive social programs and open policies have helped to make the country especially attractive for people around the world who may be used to more oppressive policies and conditions, being involved with the nation is a major part of citizenship, and immigrants who decide to take on the responsibilities of citizenship and of applying for it in the first place will find that their lives as Canadians are not only about being shaped.

Some newcomers to Canada who are not especially experienced with the democratic process or who have never been significantly involved with the affairs of their country in the past may feel a little out of place when they observe the active role that Canadians are able to take in terms of helping to form and refine their nation. While participating in this process may be especially attractive, it is not open to simply anyone who wishes to take part –the foundation of National citizenship is required in order to ensure that those who help to shape the country are themselves invested in its prosperity and future. Immigrants who take the Canadian citizenship test, complete an application, and go through the other steps required for citizenship are met with many personal and family benefits if and when they’re successful, many of which are related to working and living –elements necessary for ensuring a basic measure of wealth and happiness. Yet the ability to vote, get involved with local communities, and voice opinions helps make citizenship especially rewarding.

Not all immigrants who find themselves in Canada for the first time are likely to have a great interest in helping to shape the country, of course. Some people may prefer to keep their distance from political and social affairs. Yet various policies and ideas are destined to have an impact on the lives of everyone present in Canada, and people who do not become citizens and take part in Canada’s shaping may regret their lack of action when certain issues begin to have an effect on their own lives. Creating a positive system of feedback, Canada’s ability to both shape its citizens and to be shaped by them helps to make it the strong and attractive country it represents for many newcomers, and this ability can be enjoyed by all who step up and successfully apply for citizenship.

Posted in Canadian Life, Opinion | Tagged , , , | 5 Comments

Exploring Immigrant Communities After the Canadian Citizenship Test

Posted on November 11, 2010 by admin

Whenever immigrants travel to a new land and begin the process of settling in with a new home, a job, and other important considerations, integrating with the community and gaining a true sense of belonging can be difficult. In countries that embrace immigration and encourage immigrants to become citizens, however, this issue can be greatly relieved, and Canada is well-known for its warm attitude towards people from around the world. Those interested in becoming a Canadian must take and pass the Canadian citizenship test, an exam consisting of twenty questions that revolve around the country’s culture, history, government, and other key components. Aside from testing hopeful citizens on basic knowledge about the country, the test, which is offered in both French and English, is designed to ensure that newcomers speak and understand the Canadian national languages well enough to enjoy a prosperous life in Canada. The process of studying for and taking the Canadian citizenship test is an initial challenge that most immigrants pass, and once a follow-up interview has been held with a citizenship judge and status has been granted, new citizens can get to know their country better.

A major part of this initial understanding and discovery of Canada is the exploration of immigrant communities. In each province and territory, Canada is home to a large number of citizens who have come from other countries, and their influence on local culture and tradition is often a marvel to behold. People from every continent and from a large number of individual countries are likely to find at least a small community of fellow ex-patriots from their former areas, and staying connected with such communities may go a long way towards helping new citizens adapt to life in Canada while remembering, honoring, and further developing their ethnic backgrounds and pasts.

New Canadian citizens of any background who are interested in learning more about immigrant communities are likely to find educational opportunities simply by visiting themed neighborhoods, or by taking advantage of local workshops, conferences, and other organized meetings that address the specific needs and concerns of various ethnic groups. Most local communities in Canada can connect interested parties with clubs and societies that focus on issues relevant to those of various ethnic backgrounds. As Canada works to further its international image as a country that accepts a truly multicultural future, new citizens are likely to find that their interests in other nationalities, traditions, and ideas is welcome.

Posted in Canadian Test, Opinion | Tagged , , , | 7 Comments

Canada Finally Updates the Citizenship Examination

Posted on November 4, 2010 by gorlop

A few new changes in the Canadian citizenship test have come into effect since October 13 Operational Bulletin 244 was launched by the CIC. After the update of the resource book in March 2010 the CIC has made joined efforts to update all offices and make a smooth transition in between the old and new material. It took them a few months but at least we are seeing some of these changes reflected in the official citizenship test.

A new regulation package has been signed by the Governor General the 30th September this year and came to effect the 14th October for the CIC implementation. Among the regulations there is the reinforcement of the material used to build the citizenship test. An applicant for Canadian citizenship is considered to have an adequate knowledge of Canada in the following subjects: the chief characteristics of Canadian political and military history; Canadian social and cultural history; Canadian physical and political geography and Canadian system of government as a constitutional monarchy.

Also, applicants are considered to have an adequate knowledge of the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship if they demonstrate they have a general understanding of the following subjects (this is CIC verbatim): participation in the Canadian democratic process; Canadian society, including volunteerism, respect for the environment and the protection of Canada’s natural, cultural and architectural heritage and respect for the rights, freedoms and obligations set out in the laws governing Canada.

Translating many of the questions may change in accordance to these points. The material is still the same but the focus might have changed a bit. For example a new regulation dictaminated that mandatory questions are no longer in effect. The passing score of the Canadian citizenship test remains to be 70% out of 20 questions however there are no longer mandatory questions to pass the test, if you reach the 70% of correct answers you pass. There used to be two mandatory questions regarding the electoral system.

This change will take affect from October 14th on. Some CIC offices did not have the updated test so there might be people that failed the test with 15 correct questions. Those people will be informed if the retake of the test would be necessary or if they are still scheduled for the judge interview or not. It truly depends on the citizenship judge decision.

There is also a Language foot note on the Operational Bulletin. There won’t be any specific language test added to the citizenship examination however your communication and capacity to interact with the CIC personnel will be relied on in assessment of your English or French ability to communicate. The criteria is based on the applicant ability to understand and reply to basic spoken statements and questions. In other words you will be tested from the very moment you step inn the CIC office to sit for the test.

Take this new changes in consideration for your citizenship test. Study hard and you shall not fail!

Posted in Citizenship Test Tips, News, Test Material | Tagged , | 8 Comments

The Promise of Prosperity and Canadian Citizenship

Posted on November 1, 2010 by gorlop

In many parts of the world, living and working conditions present a continuous and considerable challenge for people regardless of the great amounts of effort and patience they may put into their daily lives. From government policies that restrict personal freedoms to difficult economic situations that make breaking even a constant financial struggle, various systems and organizations prove to be unacceptable to some, ad in many such cases, individuals or entire families decide to move to a different country –one that seems to offer better prospects and the chance at a more enjoyable, comfortable, and manageable life. While not all immigrants move because of such pressing conditions, of course, a great number of newcomers to many of the world’s leading countries enter in search of the promise of prosperity. In Canada, where a democratic system of government and close management of resources have created an admirable national operation and spirit, many immigrants seek out opportunities for changing their lives around, although some attempt this feat without one of the greatest and most essential prerequisites: citizenship.

Applying for Canadian citizenship isn’t always seen as the most attractive of choices, even to those who’d like to be able to benefit from the services and privileges that citizenship affords. Many reasons for avoiding citizenship may be personal; people sometimes feel that applying for citizenship in a new land disconnects them from their former home, or they may simply not wish to deal with the paperwork and testing procedures associated with the process. In some instances, personal reasons for declining to become a citizen are significant and benefit from being well considered and respected, though in many cases, these blocks to citizenship are ultimately negative, preventing people from realizing their greatest potential in Canada and fulfilling their personal goals.

Sometimes, immigrants may become frustrated with their experiences in Canada, noting that the difficulty of finding or maintaining work, or problems in accessing adequate health care services, keep them from enjoying the prosperous lifestyle they had expected before entering the country. Yet without the benefit of citizenship, such issues are likely if not inevitable, and may become increasingly worse so long as temporary or even illegal status is used. Though some people may be able to enjoy the kind of lifestyle they had anticipated they’d find in Canada without going through the steps required for attaining Canadian citizenship, it is far more likely that those without permanent status will find it difficult to fulfill their dreams.

While Canada and other countries like it offer the promise of prosperity to those who may not live in conditions they believe to be suitable elsewhere, the ability to experience such prosperity depends on a personal willingness to be a part of the nation’s substance and identity, and to participate in its development as a nation. Through achieving citizenship, immigrants commit themselves to being involved in the prosperity of a land that promises to pay that prosperity back.

Posted in Canadian Life, Citizenship Rights, Opinion | Tagged , , , , | 6 Comments

Inspiring Others with Canadian Citizenship Success

Posted on October 23, 2010 by gorlop

Some of the most personally meaningful accomplishments in life may have consequences that extend well beyond the self, even when achievers don’t notice. Among the many steps in life that can bring considerable challenges and triumphs to individuals, seeking out citizenship status in a new land is rewarding and carries with it a number of associated benefits and incentives. People who set their citizenship sights on Canada and work towards becoming citizens through taking the test, filling out applications, and completing other necessary steps, are able to enjoy living and working in one of the greatest countries on earth if they’re successful –something that’s destined to be seen as a great personal achievement. Yet sometimes, the benefits extend beyond an immigrant-turned-citizen and reach out to inspire and support other people, a phenomenon that often takes place within immigrant communities.

As one of the world’s most attractive countries thanks to its high standard of living, agreeable range of climates, and accommodating government, Canada brings in many people from around the world every year, and as a result is home to a number of immigrant communities. While these communities serve the important purpose of helping to support individual members and allow them to become acquainted with the new country, they do not always encourage the completion of the citizenship application, and sometimes fairly large numbers of immigrants attempt to get by without truly considering the process of becoming Canadian and taking part in the country’s administration and social environment.

Because there are many perks associated with citizenship, from easier access to jobs and staffing services to better benefits and the ability to voice one’s opinion and vote, those who intend to stay in Canada are usually best served by making the choice to pursue citizen status. While taking the Canadian citizenship test and applying for a passport and other important documents may take some time and can be frustrating on occasion (as is the case with most types of paperwork), applicants are able to take advantage of greater opportunities both for themselves and for their families once the process is complete. A deep sense of personal satisfaction is often reported by new citizens when they attend their citizenship ceremony or begin working and living in the country with permanent status, but this psychological reward has shown it isn’t limited to the recipient of the citizenship status alone.

Others within an immigrant community are often inspired by those who take the time and make the effort to become citizens, and when newcomers see the benefits that new citizens are able to enjoy, they’re more likely to feel enthusiastic about becoming a Canadian themselves. In a way, the achievement of Canadian citizenship can be seen as a service not only to the self, but to friends, family members, and the local community, all of whom may directly or indirectly benefit from a single new citizen’s momentous decision.

Posted in Canadian Test, Opinion | Tagged , , | 2 Comments