This ERIC digest presents a rationale for teaching students about their rights and responsibilities as citizens under the U.S. Constitution. Social studies teachers have a special role in shaping the lives of young citizens and influencing whether students become politically involved adults. Specific constitutional rights such as the right of a criminal suspect to legal representation and the bar on the imposition of cruel and unusual punishment are raised as important subjects for students to understand. Methods of teaching about these rights are suggested. Student rights and responsibilities under the U.S. Constitution also are discussed. (DB)