Understanding Constitutional Supremacy

How does Article VI of the U.S. Constitution ensure the continuity of obligations from the previous government under the Confederation?

• By nullifying all previous debts and engagements

• By declaring them invalid under the new Constitution

• By stating they remain valid against the United States

• By requiring renegotiation of all previous treaties

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DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking

Analyze the implications of the Supremacy Clause in Article VI on state laws that conflict with federal laws.

• State laws take precedence over federal laws

• Federal laws are supreme and override conflicting state laws

• State and federal laws are considered equal

• Conflicting state laws are valid if approved by state judges

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DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking

Discuss the rationale behind the prohibition of religious tests as a qualification for public office in Article VI.

• To promote religious uniformity in government

• To ensure freedom of religion and prevent discrimination

• To allow only Christians to hold public office

• To encourage religious debates in government

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DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking

How does Article VI address the relationship between treaties made by the United States and state laws?

• Treaties are subordinate to state laws

• Treaties are considered part of the supreme law of the land

• State laws can override treaties if necessary

• Treaties require state approval to be valid

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DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking

Analyze how the requirement for an oath or affirmation to support the Constitution might affect the behavior of public officials.

• It has no effect on their behavior

• It encourages officials to prioritize state laws over federal laws

• It obligates officials to uphold the Constitution above personal beliefs

• It allows officials to interpret the Constitution as they see fit

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DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking

How might the principles outlined in Article VI influence the relationship between state and federal governments today?

• They encourage states to operate independently of federal oversight

• They reinforce the authority of federal laws over state laws

• They allow states to challenge federal authority frequently

• They diminish the role of the federal government in state affairs

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DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking