Unit 4: Structure, Function, & Processes of Government

Study the table. What do the first three officials in the line of presidential succession have in common?

• They are the president’s closest advisers.

• They are selected by Congress.

• They are elected to office.

• They are appointed by the president

Answer explanation

The first three officials in the line of presidential succession—Vice President, Speaker of the House, and President pro tempore of the Senate—are all elected to office, distinguishing them from appointed or advisory roles.

According to the chart, how are federal and state courts different?

• in the laws involved in cases they hear

• in the source of power of the court

• in how long judges serve

• in the levels of the courts

Answer explanation

Federal and state courts differ primarily in the levels of the courts they operate within. Federal courts handle cases involving federal law, while state courts deal with state laws, leading to different court structures.

“Most Americans want judges who will stick to interpreting the law rather than making it. It is beyond dispute [argument] that the Constitution and its Framers intended this to be the role of judges. . . . Chief Justice Marshall later explained in Marbury v. Madison that the Constitution permitted Federal courts neither to write nor execute the laws but, rather, to say what the law is. That narrow scope [range] of judicial power was the reason the people accepted the idea that the Federal courts could have the power of judicial review.” —from Senator Sam Brownback, “Brownback’s opening statement on Alito,” January 9, 2006 According the excerpt, what does the senator say most Americans want from the judges?

• They should focus on interpreting the law.

• They should expand the scope of judicial review.

• They should put issues beyond dispute.

• They should follow the wishes of Congress

Answer explanation

According to the excerpt, the senator states that most Americans want judges who will focus on interpreting the law, as indicated by the phrase "Most Americans want judges who will stick to interpreting the law rather than making it."

Based on the chart, which state or states has the most restrictive laws on fireworks?

• A. Connecticut

• B. Massachusetts

• C. New York

• D. Connecticut and New York

Answer explanation

Massachusetts has the most restrictive laws on fireworks, prohibiting most types, while Connecticut and New York allow some consumer fireworks. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Massachusetts.

“It is precisely because I have experienced so much of our past that I have no fears—no fears— for our future, not so long as this institution continues to attract men and women who are patriots as well as partisans [someone loyal to a political party], legislators who combine idealism [way of thinking based on belief in reaching high goals] and realism [way of thinking that focuses on solving problems], and who answer to posterity [future generations] rather than polltakers.” —from Senator Bob Dole, Address to the U.S. Senate, March 28, 2000 According to Senator Dole, which of the following qualities make a good senator?

• being popular

• being nonpartisan

• being patriotic

• being realistic

Answer explanation

Senator Dole emphasizes the importance of combining idealism with realism, indicating that being realistic is a key quality for a good senator. This focus on practical problem-solving over mere popularity or partisanship aligns with his vision.

What is the main purpose of the separation of powers in the U.S. government?

• To reduce the size of government

• To increase efficiency in law-making

• To prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful

• To allow for more rapid changes in policy

Answer explanation

The main purpose of the separation of powers in the U.S. government is to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. This system ensures a balance of power, protecting against tyranny and promoting accountability.

Which branch of government is primarily responsible for interpreting the laws?

• Legislative

• Executive

• Judicial

• Administrative

Answer explanation

The Judicial branch is primarily responsible for interpreting the laws. It includes courts and judges who ensure laws are applied fairly and consistently, distinguishing it from the Legislative and Executive branches.

What is a key responsibility of the legislative branch in the U.S. government?

• Enforcing laws

• Writing and passing laws

• Interpreting laws

• Appointing judges

Answer explanation

A key responsibility of the legislative branch is writing and passing laws. This branch, consisting of Congress, creates legislation that governs the country, unlike the executive branch, which enforces laws, and the judicial branch, which interprets them.

How can the President of the United States check the power of Congress?

• By declaring laws unconstitutional

• By vetoing bills

• By impeaching members of Congress

• By overriding vetoes

Answer explanation

The President can check Congress's power by vetoing bills, which prevents them from becoming law unless Congress overrides the veto. This is a key check on legislative power.

What is the primary function of the executive branch?

• To make laws

• To enforce laws

• To interpret laws

• To amend the Constitution

Answer explanation

The primary function of the executive branch is to enforce laws. This branch, led by the President, ensures that laws passed by the legislative branch are implemented and followed.