Civics 1st Semester Exam Study Guide

The United States has a type of government known as a democratic republic. This is different from a direct democracy in that

• only people from a small, rich minority are allowed to vote.

• people vote for officials who represent them in government.

• people vote directly on issues to voice their opinion.

• political parties try to get support from a majority of the people.

What characteristic has to be present for a government to be an oligarchy?

• one leader with al the power

• rule by a small group of people

• religious leaders control government

• people vote on all matters

Before a bill becomes a law, it must be evaluated by

• the legislative branch and executive branch.

• the judicial branch and the Supreme Court.

• the House of Representatives and courts.

• both major political parties within the Senate.

What is the primary difference between a citizen and a non-citizen?

• Citizens can own vehicles; non-citizens cannot.

• Citizens can go to school; non-citizens cannot.

• Citizens have lots of money; non-citizens do not.

• Citizens have political rights; non-citizens do not.

Which is the best example of American citizens defending our nation from threats to national security?

• joining the armed forces

• voting in elections

• participating in jury duty

• keeping informed on issues

In the early United States, which term was used to describe someone who favored a strong central government?

• Federalist

• Totalitarian

• Centralist

• Republican

The branch of government that creates laws.

• Legislative Branch

• Executive Branch

• Judicial branch

The national legislative body of the U.S, consisting of the Senate or upper house and the House of Representatives, or the lower house.

• Elastic Clause

• U.S Congress

• Speaker of the House

• Regulate

The drawing of district lines to favor one party over another

• Regulate

• Gerrymandering

• Necessary and Proper clause

• Impeach

To bring formal charges of wrongdoing against a public official (such as U.S president)

• Expressed Powers

• Regulate

• Impeach

• Constituents