United States Constitution Quiz

The process of amending the Constitution involves both

• the Congress and the states.

• the president and the Congress.

• the states and the Supreme Court.

• the Supreme Court and the president.

How did the decision in Marbury v. Madison (1803) strengthen the power of the Supreme Court?

• It denied state courts the authority to override federal precedent.

• It asserted that the Court could order the president to carry out a law.

• It intervened in a conflict between the other two branches of government.

• It established the Court's right to declare an act of Congress unconstitutional.

Which of these is the best example of constitutional checks and balances?

• Treaties require Senate approval.

• The Constitution may be amended.

• The president is paid for his services.

• Courts decide conflicts between states.

The Supremacy Clause of the Constitution indicates how to resolve conflicts between

• state and federal laws.

• both chambers of Congress.

• strict and loose constructionists.

• majority rule and minority rights.

Why did the framers of the Constitution create three separate branches of government?

• to help people with different opinions cooperate

• to increase the power of the central government

• to keep any one group from gaining too much power

• to provide enough officials to handle the volume of work

The Preamble to the Constitution lists which of the following?

• Steps for amending the Constution

• purpose to be served by the Constitution

• procedures for ratifying the Constitution

• guidelines for interpreting the Constitution

Reduced representation in the House of Representatives could result if a state’s population _________ over time?

Which governing body has the power to impeach officials?

• Senate

• President

• Supreme Court

• House of Representatives

Which of these is an example of separation of powers?

• Representatives rewrite a bill in committee meetings.

• Representatives hold hearings to hear public opinion.

• The President enforces a law passed by Congress.

• The President fires a cabinet member who is performing poorly.

The first words of the Constitution indicate that power and authority in our system of government come from the

• states.

• people.

• voters.

• lawmakers.