Constitution & Bill of Rights
What is the supreme law of the land?
The Constitution
What are the three branches of the U.S. government?
Legislative, Executive, Judicial
What is the capital of Massachusetts?
Boston
What case established judicial review?
Marbury v. Madison
What is the separation of powers?
Each branch of government has its own powers
Which part of the Constitution lists the first 10 amendments?
The Bill of Rights
Who is in charge of the Executive Branch?
The President
Who is the head of the executive branch in Massachusetts?
The Governor
What did Brown v. Board of Education decide?
It ended racial segregation in public schools
What is checks and balances?
Each branch can limit the power of the others
What does the First Amendment protect?
Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition
What is the main job of the Legislative Branch?
To make laws
What are the two parts of the Massachusetts General Court?
The Senate and the House of Representatives
What right did Miranda v. Arizona protect?
The right to be told your rights when arrested
What does federalism mean?
Power is shared between national and state governments
Which amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures?
4th Amendment
How does the Judicial Branch check the other branches?
It can declare laws or actions unconstitutional
What is one responsibility of local governments?
Public schools, police and fire services, local roads
What was the main issue in Tinker v. Des Moines?
Students’ free speech in schools
What is the rule of law?
Everyone must follow the law, even leaders
Which amendment guarantees the right to a trial by jury in criminal cases?
6th Amendment
What powers does Congress have over the President?
Can override vetoes, approve appointments, impeac
How can Massachusetts citizens propose a new law?
Through a ballot initiative or petition
What is Judicial Review?
The power of the Supreme Court to examine whether a law or action by the government
What is the Elastic Clause?
It grants Congress the power to make laws that are "necessary and proper" for carrying out its specifically listed powers and all other powers vested in the federal government