Constitution Basics
What are the main sections of the Constitution called?
Articles
Which branch carries out and enforces federal laws?
Executive Branch
What do we call the sharing of power between the national and state governments?
Federalism
What was one reason some states refused to approve the Constitution at first?
It did not list people’s rights
What does the Second Amendment protect?
The right to bear arms
The opening statement of the Constitution begins with which words?
“We the People”
Which branch interprets laws and settles disputes under the law?
Judicial Branch
Who can propose amendments to the Constitution?
Congress
Who was the main author of the Bill of Rights?
James Madison
What does “due process of law” mean?
The government must follow fair rules when enforcing laws
Why did the writers of the Constitution include the words “We the People”?
To show that government power comes from the people
What is the main purpose of checks and balances?
To keep any one branch from becoming too powerful
What fraction of state legislatures must approve an amendment for it to be ratified?
3/4ths
What is one purpose of the Bill of Rights?
To limit the power of the federal government
Which amendment guarantees a speedy, public trial by an impartial jury?
The Sixth Amendment
What is the main job of Congress?
To make laws
What is it called when the Supreme Court can strike down a law as unconstitutional?
Judicial review
Give one example of a shared power between the state and federal governments.
Raising taxes, borrowing money, or building roads
Which amendment protects freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition?
The First Amendment
What kind of punishment is prohibited by the Eighth Amendment?
Cruel or unusual punishment
Before a national bill becomes a law, what must happen last?
The President must sign it
Give one example of how Congress can check the President.
Override a veto, approve appointments, or impeach the president
Why does the Constitution use the idea of majority rule?
So decisions reflect what most people want
Which amendment protects people from unreasonable searches and seizures?
The Fourth Amendment
What does the Tenth Amendment say about powers not given to the federal government?
They belong to the states or the people