Key Terms
What does "bias" mean?
Bias means a tendency to favor one perspective or outcome over others, often in a way that’s unfair.
What is the role of the legislative branch?
The legislative branch is responsible for making laws.
What is the primary responsibility of an MP?
The primary responsibility of an MP (Member of Parliament) is to represent the interests and concerns of their constituents in the House of Commons.
Who is the current Prime Minister of Canada?
Justin Trudeau is the current Prime Minister of Canada.
What is a law?
A law is a rule created by the government that everyone must follow.
Define "constituent"
A constituent is a person who lives in an area represented by an elected official.
What is the name of the highest court in Canada?
The highest court in Canada is the Supreme Court of Canada
Define "Lobbyist".
A lobbyist is someone who tries to influence government policy on behalf of a group or individual.
What is the role of the Governor General?
The Governor General represents the monarch in Canada and carries out ceremonial duties.
What is the purpose of the first reading of a bill?
The first reading introduces a bill to the House of Commons to inform members of its content, but no debate or voting takes place.
What is a "bill"?
A bill is a proposed law presented to a legislature for discussion.
Who is responsible for executing laws?
The executive branch is responsible for executing laws.
What is the purpose of elections in a democracy?
Elections allow citizens to choose their leaders and hold them accountable, a key feature of democracy.
How can citizens participate in democracy?
Citizens can participate in democracy by voting, running for office, or engaging in activism.
What happens during the committee stage of a bill?
During the committee stage, a small group of MPs or Senators review the bill in detail, suggest changes, and debate its implications.
What is the "House of Commons"?
The House of Commons is the elected lower house of Canada’s Parliament, where Members of Parliament (MPs) debate and pass laws.
What does the judicial branch do?
The judicial branch interprets and applies the law, ensuring justice.
How does the Cabinet function?
The Cabinet is a group of appointed ministers who make decisions and set government policy in their areas of responsibility.
What is the significance of a secret ballot?
A secret ballot ensures that citizens can vote freely and privately, without fear of coercion.
Describe the process of a bill becoming law after passing the House of Commons.
After passing the House of Commons, the bill goes to the Senate for review and approval, and then to the Governor General for royal assent.
Explain the term "First past the post".
First past the post is a voting system where the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of whether they have a majority.
Describe the relationships between the branches of government.
The branches of government share power and have checks and balances to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
Why is accountability important in government?
Accountability ensures that government officials are answerable to the public and must justify their actions and decisions.
What is the role of the Speaker of the House of Commons?
The Speaker of the House of Commons is responsible for maintaining order during debates, ensuring parliamentary rules are followed, and representing the House in its relations with the Crown and other bodies. The Speaker also acts impartially, without showing political bias.
What is "royal assent," and why is it important?
Royal assent is the formal approval by the Governor General, which is the final step for a bill to become law. It signifies the Crown's approval and allows the bill to be enacted.