Civics SMT Practice

Front

Which action distinguishes the legislative branch from the judiciary? Options: The legislative branch gives orders to the armed forces. The legislative branch writes bills that may be passed into law. The legislative branch reviews laws to determine constitutionality. The legislative branch pardons people convicted of federal crimes.

Back

The legislative branch writes bills that may be passed into law.

Front

How are a direct democracy and a representative democracy different?

Back

A direct democracy relies on a popular vote to make decisions, while a representative democracy uses elected officials to make decisions for the people.

Front

Which statement best explains how the law can still be prevented from being enacted? Options: The Speaker of the House can veto the law., The people in each state can vote against the law., The governors in each state can refuse to approve the law., The Supreme Court can determine the unconstitutionality of the law.

Back

The Supreme Court can determine the unconstitutionality of the law.

Front

Which power describes an executive check on the legislative branch? Options: the power to approve presidential nominations, the power to veto congressional legislation, the power to override presidential vetoes, the power to impeach officials

Back

the power to veto congressional legislation

Front

Which phrase from the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution supports the creation of the U.S. Army? Options: "establish justice", "insure domestic Tranquility", "provide for the common defense", "promote the general Welfare"

Back

"provide for the common defense"

Front

Which statement is an example of the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches? Options: Congress passes laws, but the president enforces them.; Congress passes laws, but the federal courts interpret them.; The president can enforce laws, but the federal courts can interpret them.; The president can interpret laws, but the legislative branch can enforce them.

Back

Congress passes laws, but the president enforces them.

Front

According to the Declaration of Independence, what is the relationship between a government and natural rights? Options: The goal of a government is to create these rights., The government derives its power from these rights., The government is responsible for granting these rights., The purpose of a government is to protect these rights.

Back

The purpose of a government is to protect these rights.

Front

Which action was a result of Shays’ Rebellion?

Back

Political leaders supported the Convention in Philadelphia to debate a new government.

Front

Which statement is the best example of rule of law? Options: The federal government must follow state laws when passing federal laws. Federal guidelines determine how state governments interpret federal laws. All levels of government are subject to laws that are fairly applied and enforced. The legislative branch and executive branch must obey the laws and rules created by the judicial branch.

Back

All levels of government are subject to laws that are fairly applied and enforced.

Front

Which agreement was made to ensure ratification of the U.S. Constitution?

Back

The Anti-Federalists agreed to ratify the Constitution if a bill of rights was included.