Political System of the USA
What system ensures that no branch of government becomes too powerful?
Checks and balances (within the separation of powers).
Why was Elizabeth I called the "Virgin Queen"?
Because she never married and presented her unmarried status as a symbol of her independence and dedication to England. She claimed that she was "married" to her country and her people.
What does "political polarization" mean?
It describes the growing division between political groups, especially Democrats and Republicans, with fewer compromises between them.
What requirements must a nominee for the U.S. Supreme Court meet?
There are no specific requirements in the U.S. Constitution. A nominee does not have to be a judge, a lawyer, or have a certain age or nationality.
Who is the main character in Arrival and what is her profession?
Louise Banks; she is a linguist and language expert.
Name the three branches of the U.S. government.
Executive, Legislative, Judicial.
Which powerful enemy did Elizabeth I defeat in 1588?
The Spanish Armada (sent by King Philip II of Spain).
Why is gun control such a controversial issue in the United States?
Because Americans disagree about the balance between the Second Amendment right to own guns and the need for public safety and regulation.
Why does the Supreme Court play an important role in current U.S. politics?
Because its decisions can influence major issues such as abortion, civil rights, gun laws and the balance of federal and state power.
Why do the aliens come to Earth in Arrival?
They come to share their language and help humanity learn a new way of understanding time and communication. They'll need help in return in 3000 years.
Which branch of government has the power to declare war and pass federal laws?
The Legislative Branch (Congress).
What role did portraiture play during Elizabeth I’s reign?
Portraits were used as political propaganda. They created an idealized image of Elizabeth as powerful, youthful, wise and almost symbolic rather than showing her realistically.
What is one major difference between the healthcare systems of the USA and Germany?
Germany has a universal healthcare system, while the U.S. system is largely based on private insurance and does not automatically cover everyone.
How does someone become a Supreme Court Justice in the United States?
A Supreme Court Justice is nominated by the President and must be confirmed by the Senate.
What are the aliens in Arrival called, and what are the names of the two main aliens?
They are called heptapods; the two heptapods are Abbott and Costello.
How many electoral votes are needed to win the U.S. presidency?
270 out of 538.
Complete the quote by Elizabeth I:
"I have the body of a _______ and _______ woman, but I have the _______ and _______ of a king."
"I have the body of a weak and feeble woman, but I have the heart and stomach of a king."
What is a tariff?
A tariff is a tax placed on goods imported from another country.
What was Roe v. Wade and why was it important in U.S. history?
Roe v. Wade was a 1973 Supreme Court decision that recognized a constitutional right to abortion. It was overturned in 2022, allowing individual states to introduce their own abortion laws.
Which linguistic theory suggests that language influences our perception of reality, and how is it reflected in Arrival?
The Sapir-Whorf hypothesis; learning the heptapods’ language changes Louise’s perception of time.
Name three examples of swing states.
Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina.
Between which years did the Elizabethan Age take place?
1558–1603.
What are the main reasons for the conflict between Iran and the United States? Name three.
Why has the appointment of Supreme Court Justices become highly political?
Because Supreme Court Justices serve for life and make decisions on controversial issues. Their appointments can influence U.S. politics for decades, so presidents and parties treat nominations as highly important political decisions.
What is the main idea or message of Arrival?
The film explores the power of language, communication and empathy. It suggests that trying to understand others can change our perspective.