Crash Course Government: U.S. Congress

What was the historical reason for having two houses in Congress?

• To simplify the law making process.

• To reduce the number of legislators in Washington.

• To make the government more powerful.

• To balance the power and interests of large and small states.

How is representation in the House of Representatives determined?

• By state wealth

• Equally among states

• By a state's geographic size

• By state population

What is the minimum age requirement to serve in the House of Representatives?

• 35 years old

• 21 years old

• 25 years old

• 30 years old

What is the main reason for dividing the legislature into two houses?

• To reduce the number of laws passed

• To prevent any one house from having too much power

• To ensure faster law-making

• To increase legislative power

According to the Constitution (by listing it first - in Article 1), which branch of the U.S. government is considered the most important?

• State

• Legislative

• Judicial

• Executive

Which amendment changed the way Senators are elected?

• 15th Amendment

• 17th Amendment

• 19th Amendment

• 21st Amendment

What is the term length for a U.S. Senator?

• 8 years

• 6 years

• 4 years

• 2 years

What is one of the specific powers granted to the Senate?

• Impeaching the President

• Raising revenue bills

• Confirming executive appointments

• Deciding presidential elections

According to James Madison in the Federalist Papers, what is the purpose of dividing the legislature?

• To ensure faster law-making

• To confuse foreign governments

• To prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful

• To provide jobs to more politicians