Elements of Representative Democracy Vocabulary

What is the primary function of a representative in a democracy?

• To make laws

• To enforce laws

• To interpret laws

• To represent the people's interests

Which term describes the system where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf?

• Direct democracy

• Representative democracy

• Oligarchy

• Monarchy

In a representative democracy, what is the role of a constitution?

• To elect representatives

• To outline the structure of government

• To enforce laws

• To interpret laws

Which of the following is a characteristic of a representative democracy?

• Citizens vote on every law

• Leaders are chosen by inheritance

• Elected officials represent the people

• Government is controlled by a single party

What does the term 'constituency' refer to in a representative democracy?

• A political party

• A geographical area represented by an elected official

• The process of voting

• The act of campaigning

Which of the following best defines 'bicameral legislature'?

• A single legislative body

• Two houses in the legislative branch

• A system with no legislative body

• A court system

What is the meaning of 'incumbent' in the context of elections?

• A candidate running for the first time

• A current officeholder running for re-election

• A person who has never held office

• A political party leader

Which word describes the power to reject a decision or proposal made by a law-making body?

• Amendment

• Veto

• Ratification

• Legislation

What is a 'referendum'?

• A vote by the electorate on a specific proposal

• A type of election for representatives

• A legislative session

• A political debate

In a representative democracy, what is the significance of 'checks and balances'?

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

• To balance the budget

• To check the accuracy of votes

• To balance the number of representatives