The Constitution: The Supreme Court

Of the three branches of government—the legislative, the Executive, and the Judicial—which is considered the most powerful today?

• The Legislative

• The Executive

• The Judicial

What does Article III, Section 1 of the Constitution say about the judicial power?

• It vests the nation's 'judicial power' in a Supreme Court and any lower courts that Congress may establish.

• It grants the President the power to appoint judges without Senate approval.

• It establishes the judicial power in state courts only.

According to the Framers, the purpose of lifetime tenure and salary for federal judges was to:

• Ensure independence from political pressures

• Provide financial security

• Encourage long-term service

The Constitution specifies the number of justices in the Supreme Court.

• True

• False

What did Abraham Lincoln do in response to the Supreme Court's decision in Dred Scott v. Sandford?

• He issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

• He publicly criticized the decision and worked to oppose it.

• He supported the decision and enforced it.

Which Article of the U.S. Constitution is the shortest and outlines the judicial power of the United States?

• Article I

• Article III

• Article IV

Which best describes how judicial review changes the constitution?

• Each law passed by the legislative branch fleshes out the constitution.

• Each law explained by the judicial branch changes the meaning of the constitution.

• Each action of the president expands the powers of the executive branch in the constitution.

Which branch of government is responsible for interpreting the Constitution?

• The Judicial

• The Executive

• The Legislative

What is the primary function of the Supreme Court in the United States?

• To interpret laws

• To create laws

• To enforce laws

How many justices currently serve on the U.S. Supreme Court?

• Seven

• Nine

• Eleven