Foundations of Government
This document replaced the Articles of Confederation in 1787.
U.S. Constitution
Which part of the Constitution explains why the government was created?
The Preamble
This branch of government enforces the laws.
Executive Branch
The system that allows each branch of government to limit the power of the others.
Checks and balances
The system that divides power between the national and state governments.
Federalism
As a republic, this is the most common way Americans participate in government.
Voting in local, state, and national elections
How many goals are listed in the Preamble?
Six
Who is the leader of the Executive Branch established by Article II?
The President
This is the president’s power to reject a law passed by Congress.
Veto
This is one power shared by both the federal and state governments.
The power to collect taxes
This part of the Constitution states the six goals or purposes of the government.
The Preamble
Which Preamble goal means keeping peace and order within the country?
“to insure domestic tranquility”
These two groups make up the Legislative Branch.
House of Representatives and the Senate
This House of Representatives power is used to accuse a government leader of wrongdoing.
Impeachment
Why are education laws different in each state?
Education is a responsibility of the state governments.
Why did the writers create a new Constitution at the Constitutional Convention in 1787?
To create a stronger national government.
Which goal of the Preamble deals with protecting the nation from foreign threats?
“to provide for the common defense”
What is the main responsibility of the Executive Branch?
To enforce laws.
When the Supreme Court rules a law unconstitutional, it is using this power.
Judicial Review
What allows the Constitution to adapt to changing times?
Amendments, the Elastic Clause, and Supreme Court interpretation.
What was one major weakness of the Articles of Confederation that the Constitution fixed?
The national government could not tax or enforce laws.
Which goal of the Preamble is most closely related to helping people’s needs?
“to promote the general welfare”
Why does the Constitution separate government into three branches?
To prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
Why were checks and balances added to the Constitution?
To prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.
Explain two ways the Constitution can change or adapt over time.
Through formal amendments and Supreme Court interpretation (or Elastic Clause).