Final Review: Constitution

How is the Constitution organized?

• into parts called articles

• into sentences called sections

• into columns called delegations

• into paragraphs called statements

Answer explanation

The Constitution is organized into parts called articles, which outline the structure and function of the government. This is the correct choice, as the other options do not accurately describe the Constitution's organization.

Why did the delegates start the Preamble to the Constitution with the words “We, the people”?

• to record that all the citizens wrote the Constitution

• to state that government power comes from the people

• to declare that the people were separating from Great Britain

• to provide an introduction that would interest readers

Answer explanation

The delegates began the Preamble with "We, the people" to emphasize that the authority of the government is derived from the citizens, highlighting the principle of popular sovereignty.

Why does each state have two senators?

• to balance the rights of large and small states

• so the Senate does not become overcrowded

• to assure there are enough people to pass the laws

• so that one can take over if the other is unavailable

Answer explanation

Each state has two senators to ensure equal representation in the Senate, balancing the interests of both large and small states. This structure prevents larger states from dominating legislative decisions.

What is the primary work of Congress?

• to make laws for the country

• to debate whether laws are constitutional

• to determine who will be the candidate for president

• to be the chief executives of the states they represent

Answer explanation

The primary work of Congress is to make laws for the country. This legislative function is essential for governing and addressing the needs of the nation, distinguishing it from other roles like debating constitutionality or executive duties.

What is the final step before a national bill becomes a law?

• It is signed by the president.

• It is voted on by the citizens.

• It is passed by the Supreme Court.

• It is approved by the state legislators

Answer explanation

The final step before a national bill becomes a law is that it is signed by the president. This action is necessary for the bill to be enacted, following its passage through Congress.

All of these are duties of the executive branch except

• negotiating treaties.

• carrying out the laws.

• proposing new taxes.

• nominating federal judges.

Answer explanation

Proposing new taxes is not a duty of the executive branch; it is primarily the responsibility of Congress. The executive branch focuses on enforcing laws, negotiating treaties, and nominating judges.

Which of these describes the responsibility of the judicial branch?

• to put laws into effect

• to resolve disputes under the law

• to veto decisions of the Supreme Court

• to propose bills needed to achieve justice

Answer explanation

The judicial branch is responsible for interpreting laws and resolving disputes under the law, ensuring justice is served. The other options describe roles of different branches of government.

What name is given to the Supreme Court’s power to declare a law unconstitutional?

• federalism

• veto power

• impeachment

• judicial review

Answer explanation

The Supreme Court's power to declare a law unconstitutional is known as judicial review. This principle allows the Court to ensure that laws align with the Constitution, making 'judicial review' the correct answer.

What is the purpose of the system of checks and balances?

• to list the responsibilities of elected officials

• to make it difficult to amend the Constitution

• to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful

• to share power between state and national governments

Answer explanation

The purpose of the system of checks and balances is to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful, ensuring that power is distributed and that each branch can limit the actions of the others.

An amendment to the Constitution can be ratified by three-fourths of the

• Senate.

• citizens.

• state legislatures.

• Supreme Court justices.

Answer explanation

An amendment to the Constitution can be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures, as specified in Article V of the Constitution. This means that the correct answer is state legislatures.