22
The Constitution – the basic law of the state
Textbook: Part 2, pp. 39–41
GoalExplain what the Constitution is; distinguish the figurative meaning of idioms.
New words
Constitution · Konstitutsiyalaw · qonunright · huquqidiom, set phrase · ibora
Explanation
The textbook has the poem “Qomusim” (My Constitution) by Mansur Aslonov, which praises the Constitution as a support for the people and a guiding sacred book. We do not retell the poem. The Constitution is the basic law of the state: other laws must not contradict its rules. It sets out the rights and duties of citizens. The Constitution of Uzbekistan was adopted on 8 December 1992; that is why 8 December is Constitution Day. In 2023 a new version was adopted by referendum. Idioms are used in a figurative sense: “qo‘li gul” (literally “hand is a flower”) – skilful, “ko‘ngli ochiq” (open-hearted) – sincere.
Worked examples
“Our class law”. In September our class made its own rules. Every pupil gave an opinion and by majority vote we chose five rules: not interrupting others, coming on time, keeping the class clean, helping each other, respecting elders. We wrote the rules on a large sheet and hung it on the wall. Our teacher follows these rules too. I understood that a good law works equally for everyone.
Comparison: class rules are a small “law”; the Constitution is the basic law for the whole state. Date: 8 December 1992.
Class activity
“Class rules”: children propose 3 rules, the class votes and chooses two to hang on the wall.
Practice
1
How did the class choose its rules?
By majority vote
2
Name two of the rules.
For example: coming on time, keeping the class clean
3
Where were the rules hung?
On the wall
4
What is the Constitution?
The basic law of the state
5
On what date is Constitution Day marked?
On 8 December