Unit 4.5 Flashcard

Front

In a classroom discussion, Charlotte asked about the purpose of the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution. What was the teacher's response?

Back

To introduce the Constitution and explain its goals

Answer explanation

The Preamble introduces the Constitution and outlines its goals, such as promoting justice and ensuring domestic tranquility. It sets the stage for the articles that follow, making it clear that its purpose is to explain the Constitution's intent.

Front

What did the phrase 'We the People' mean to the framers of the Constitution in 1787?

Back

Self-government/people hold the power

Answer explanation

The phrase "We the People" in 1787 emphasized self-government, indicating that the authority of the government derives from the consent of the governed, reflecting the belief that the people hold the power.

Front

How does the U.S. Constitution limit the powers of government?

Back

Through separation of powers, checks and balances, and protection of individual rights.

Answer explanation

The U.S. Constitution limits government powers through separation of powers among branches, checks and balances to prevent abuse, and protection of individual rights, ensuring no single entity has unchecked authority.

Front

How does the concept of the rule of law shape governance in the United States?

Back

It ensures that all individuals and institutions are accountable to the law.

Answer explanation

The rule of law ensures that all individuals and institutions, including the government, are accountable to the law, promoting fairness and justice in governance.

Front

What is the main function of the legislative branch?

Back

To create laws that reflect the needs and concerns of the people.

Answer explanation

The main function of the legislative branch is to create laws that reflect the needs and concerns of the people, making option c the correct choice. The other options describe functions of the judicial or executive branches.

Front

How does the U.S. Constitution establish a representative democracy, as explained by Mason in his civics class? Options: a) By allowing citizens to directly propose and vote on laws, b) By having citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf, c) By giving all power to the national government and limiting the power of states, d) By creating a system where the president has complete control over the government

Back

By having citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf

Answer explanation

The U.S. Constitution establishes a representative democracy by allowing citizens to elect representatives who make decisions on their behalf, ensuring that the government reflects the will of the people.

Front

What are some key differences between the House of Representatives and the Senate?

Back

The House has a shorter term length and represents smaller districts within states, while the Senate has a longer term and represents entire states.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is b) because the House of Representatives has shorter terms (2 years) and represents smaller districts, while the Senate has longer terms (6 years) and represents entire states.

Front

In a classroom discussion, Abigail and James are learning about the powers of Congress as outlined in Article I of the Constitution. What are some specific powers granted to Congress?

Back

To declare war, coin money, regulate commerce, and establish post offices

Answer explanation

Article I of the Constitution grants Congress specific powers such as declaring war, coining money, regulating commerce, and establishing post offices, making this the correct choice.

Front

During a school government simulation, which of the following is a responsibility of the executive branch represented by Samuel? To propose and vote on amendments to the Constitution, To declare laws unconstitutional and overturn them, To carry out and enforce laws passed by Congress, To represent the interests of citizens in a particular state

Back

To carry out and enforce laws passed by Congress

Answer explanation

The executive branch is responsible for carrying out and enforcing laws passed by Congress, making this the correct choice. The other options pertain to legislative or judicial functions.

Front

How is the president of the United States selected?

Back

Through the Electoral College

Answer explanation

The president of the United States is selected through the Electoral College, where electors from each state cast votes based on the popular vote in their state, rather than by direct popular vote or any other method.