The Structure and Principles of the Constitution

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What is the Preamble of the Constitution?

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The introduction that states the purpose of the Constitution.

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What are the seven articles of the Constitution?

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1. Legislative Branch 2. Executive Branch 3. Judicial Branch 4. States' Powers 5. Amendment Process 6. Federal Powers 7. Ratification.

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How does the Constitution increase the power of the central government?

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By establishing a stronger federal government with specific powers.

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What are the two ways to propose amendments to the Constitution?

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1. Two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress 2. Constitutional convention called by two-thirds of state legislatures.

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What are the two ways to ratify amendments?

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1. Approval by three-fourths of state legislatures 2. Approval by conventions in three-fourths of the states.

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What is the significance of Article VI of the Constitution?

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It establishes the Constitution as the supreme law of the land.

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What is popular sovereignty?

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The principle that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people.

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What is the principle of limited government?

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The government is restricted in what it may do, and each individual has rights that the government cannot take away.

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What are delegated powers?

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Powers specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution.

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What are reserved powers?

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Powers that are not specifically granted to the federal government and are reserved for the states.