U.S. Constitution

Which document guarantees freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and protection from unreasonable search and seizure?

• (1) Bill of Rights

• (2) Albany Plan of Union

• (3) Declaration of Sentiments

• (4) Federalist Papers

Which feature of the Constitution prevents one branch of the national government from becoming too powerful?

• federal supremacy

• checks and balances

• electoral college

• elastic clause

The first ten amendments were added to the Constitution to

• remove portions of the original Constitution

• protect individual freedoms from governmental power

• make changes in the election process

• increase the power of the legislative branch

The 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments were added to the Constitution during the Reconstruction period to

• bring an end to the Civil War

• limit the powers of the president

• improve the operation of the electoral college

• grant legal rights to African Americans

One similarity between the New York State Constitution and the United States Constitution is that each contains a provision allowing for

• a declaration of war

• the taxation of citizens

• an establishment of post offices

• the coinage of money

Which type of document usually describes the basic structure, functions, and powers of a government?

• constitution

• resolution

• proclamation

• treaty

Legislative Branch - (Congress) Passes the laws

Executive Branch - (President) Carries out and enforces the laws

Judicial Branch - (Courts) Interprets the laws

Which political principle is shown by the description above

• federalism

• implied powers

• separation of powers

• unwritten constitution

Legislative Branch - (Congress) Passes the laws

Executive Branch - (President) Carries out and enforces the laws

Judicial Branch - (Courts) Interprets the laws

Which conclusion about the system of government used in the United States is best supported by the chart?

• Voters elect the members of all three branches.

• The president has the power to interpret the law. .

• The Supreme Court’s decisions about laws can be appealed.

• Laws are affected by all three branches of government

Which statement best illustrates the principle of federalism?

• (1) The president has the power to veto bills.

• Congress is divided into two houses.

• The Supreme Court has the power to review laws.

• Power is divided between the states and the national government.

The system of checks and balances was included in the Constitution to

• provide a method to change the document

• allow voters a voice in the legislative process

• ensure that one branch of government would not gain too much power

• allow for trial by jury in all civil and criminal cases