The Three Branches
Roles and Responsibilities
Key Vocabulary
Citizens & Government
NC Government in Action
100

This branch enforces laws and is led by the governor.

What is the Executive Branch?

100

 The leader of the Executive Branch.  

Who is the Governor?

100

A government with two legislative chambers.

What is Bicameral?

100

A person who belongs to a nation and has rights and responsibilities.

What is a Citizen?

100

The General Assembly is debating a new law that would require all schools to have a longer recess. Which branch of government is responsible for making this decision?

Legislative

200

This branch makes laws and consists of the General Assembly.

What is the Legislative Branch?

200

The branch responsible for deciding how the state spends money.

What is the Legislative Branch?

200

The people politicians represent.

What are Constituents?

200

Doing what is expected and accepting consequences.

What is Responsibility?

200

A citizen believes their property was taken unfairly by the government and wants to challenge the decision in court. Which branch of government would handle this case?

Judicial

300

This branch interprets laws and ensures they follow the Constitution.

What is the Judicial Branch?

300

 This official has the power to sign or veto laws.

Who is the Governor?

300

The first 10 Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

What is the Bill of Rights?

300

The ability of citizens to affect government through voting and advocacy.

What is Representation?

300

The governor has just vetoed a bill that would increase sales tax on groceries. Which branch of government is the governor a part of?  

Executive

400

The General Assembly has two parts: the Senate and this group.

What is the House of Representatives?

400

The highest court in North Carolina.

What is the North Carolina Supreme Court?

400

A system of principles that governs a nation or state.

What is the Constitution?

400

A person who argues for a cause or supports change.

What is an Advocate?

400

A new law about bike safety has been passed, and now police officers are making sure people follow it. Which two branches of government are working together in this situation?

Legislative & Executive

500

This principle prevents any one branch from becoming too powerful.

What is Checks and Balances?

500

The Legislative Branch is responsible for creating these.

What are laws?

500

The power to change or affect something without force.

What is Influence?

500

The government group that ensures laws are fair.

What is the Judicial Branch?

500

A judge has ruled that a new law goes against the North Carolina Constitution and cannot be enforced. Which branch of government has the power to do this?

Judicial

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