Understanding the U.S. Constitution

What is the primary purpose of the Preamble of the Constitution?

• To outline the structure of the new government

• To declare independence from Britain

• To introduce the goals and underlying principles of the Constitution

• To list the grievances against the King of England

Which amendment protects the rights to freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition?

• Third Amendment

• First Amendment

• Fifth Amendment

• Seventh Amendment

Which branch of the U.S. government is responsible for making laws?

• Legislative

• Executive

• Judicial

• States

What is the main purpose of the system of checks and balances in the U.S. Constitution?

• To ensure one branch of government does not become too powerful

• To check the accuracy of government financial accounts

• To balance the budget of the federal government

• To provide checks to government employees

Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

• 13th Amendment

• 14th Amendment

• 15th Amendment

• 19th Amendment

During the Constitutional Convention, the Great Compromise resolved what issue?

• The issue of slavery

• Representation in the new government

• The election of the President

• Trade regulations between states

What does the Tenth Amendment state about the division of powers between the federal government and the states?

• All powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states

• The federal government has supreme authority over the states in all matters

• States have no powers except those specifically granted by the federal government

• The federal government can take over state governments in times of national crisis

Which principle is demonstrated when the President vetoes a bill passed by Congress?

• Federalism

• Judicial Review

• Separation of Powers

• Checks and Balances