Scary
Explain the term Checks & Balances
a system in the U.S. government that makes sure no one branch (like the President, Congress, or Courts) becomes too powerful. Each branch can “check” the others and “balance” their power
How can we amend the constitution?
Approved by ⅔ of the House & Senate, Ratified by ¾ of state legislatures
Identify one key difference between Federalists & Anti-Federalists
Federalists wanted a strong NATIONAL government
Anti-federalists wanted a strong STATE governments
Purpose of the Virginia Plan
state representation determined by population
1st Amendment Example
You can share your opinion about a school rule without getting in trouble.
Checks & Balances example.
The President can veto (say no to) a law passed by Congress. But Congress can still make the law happen if enough members vote to override the veto.
why did the framers create a way to amend it?
So the Constitution can adapt to changing times
Explain why Anti-Federalists demanded a Bill of Rights before ratifying the Constitution.
They were afraid the new government would abuse the rights of the people
Purpose of the New Jersey Plan
equal representation for each state
3rd Amendment Example
Soldiers cannot stay in your house without your permission, even during war.
Explain the term Separation of Powers
the government’s power is divided into three parts, so no one part controls everything.
Explain the benefits of the ⅗ Compromise to southern states.
More representation in the House of Representative and Senate
What document was created to protect the rights of American Citizens?
Bill of Rights
Purpose of the Great Compromise
Bicameral Legislature (2 Houses)- one determined by population & one with equal representation- Both houses work together to pass laws
7th Amendment Example
If you and a friend disagree about money or property, you can have a jury decide the outcome.
Separation of Powers example.
Congress writes a law, the President decides how to carry it out, and the courts decide what the law means if people disagree.
What act created a way for adding new states to the Union?
Northwest Ordinance
Which amendment created the concept of Federalism?
10th Amendment
Weakness of the Articles of Confederation: Could not collect taxes, how was it addressed in the new Constitution
Power to tax
9th Amendment Example
Even if a right isn’t written down, you still have it, like choosing your friends or hobbies.
Explain the term Popular Sovereignty & give an example
the principle that a government's authority comes from its people, who give their consent to be governed, The election of the U.S. President
List some of the provisions of the Northwest Ordinance.
Provided for public education, Outlawed slavery, Gained rights to self-government
List 3 ways to be a responsible citizen
Becoming an informed voter
Serving on a jury
Paying taxes
Weakness of the Articles of Confederation: could not enforce laws, how was it addressed in the Constitution
Executive Branch to enforce laws
10th Amendment Example
If the Constitution doesn’t say the federal government can do something, the states or people can decide for themselves.