Chapter 2: What is the UK?

Chapter 2 gives a summary of the different nations that form the United Kingdom. It explains the
words used
to talk about the islands and the people who live there. A map is included to show where these
nations are
located within the UK. This chapter also helps explain the terms 'Crown
Dependencies' and
'British overseas territories'.
The United Kingdom is made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It's important to
remember
that the rest of Ireland is a separate country that is independent.
The official name of the country is the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern
Ireland. 'Great Britain' strictly means England, Scotland, and Wales, not including
Northern
Ireland. However, the words 'Britain', 'British Isles', or 'British' are used in this context to
talk about
everyone in the UK.
Moreover, several islands are closely linked with the UK but do not form part of it: the
Channel
Islands and the Isle of Man. These territories have their own
governments and
are called 'Crown dependencies'. There are also many British overseas territories
in other
parts of the world, like St. Helena and the Falkland Islands.
These
territories are connected with the UK but are not a part of it.
The United Kingdom is governed by the Parliament in Westminster. However, Scotland, Wales, and
Northern
Ireland also have their own parliaments or assemblies, with devolved powers in specified areas.
Make Sure You Understand
- The different countries that form the UK
- The difference between 'Great Britain' and the 'United Kingdom'
- What 'Crown Dependencies' and 'British overseas territories' mean
- The governing system of the UK and the roles of different parliaments or assemblies
Study Materials
- Introduction to the Life in the UK Study Guide
- Chapter 1 - The Values and Principles of the UK
- Chapter 2 - What is the UK?
- Chapter 3 - A Long and Illustrious History
- Britain from it's Beginnings
- The Middle Ages
- The Tudors and Stuarts
- A Global Power
- The 20th Century
- Britain since 1945
- Chapter 4 - A Modern, Thriving Society in the UK
- The UK Today
- Religion in the UK
- Customs and Traditions
- Sport in the UK
- Arts and Culture
- Leisure Activities in the UK
- Iconic Places of Interest in the UK
- Chapter 5 - The UK Government, the Law and Your Role
- The Development of British Democracy
- The Government
- Who Can Vote in the UK?
- The UK and International Institutions
- Respecting the Law
- The Role of the Courts
- Fundamental Principles
- Your Role in the Community
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