Key Concepts of the Constitution

Separation of Powers

• The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches.

• A system where all powers are concentrated in one branch of government.

• A method to ensure that the government operates without any checks and balances.

• A principle that allows for the merging of legislative and executive powers.

Formal Amendment

• A change to the Constitution that follows a specific process.

• An informal change to a law without following the Constitution.

• A process to repeal an existing law.

• A method to create new laws without legislative approval.

Preamble

• The introduction to the Constitution.

• A summary of the Bill of Rights.

• A list of amendments to the Constitution.

• The conclusion of the Constitution.

Senatorial Courtesy

• The practice of allowing senators to block a nomination by simply registering their objection.

• A tradition where senators must approve all presidential nominations.

• A rule that requires senators to vote on all judicial appointments.

• A procedure for confirming cabinet members without debate.

Treaty

• A formal agreement between two or more sovereign states that requires Senate approval.

• An informal understanding between two countries.

• A document that outlines the rules of a game.

• A declaration of war between nations.

Rule of Law

• The principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to the law.

• The idea that laws are created by a single authority.

• The belief that laws can be ignored by those in power.

• The concept that laws are only applicable to certain groups.

Cabinet

• A group of advisors to the president, typically the heads of the executive departments.

• A collection of furniture used for storage.

• A legislative body that makes laws for the country.

• A type of government building where officials meet.

Electoral College

• The body of electors established by the Constitution to elect the president and vice president.

• A group of citizens who vote directly for the president and vice president.

• An assembly of state governors who select the president and vice president.

• A committee that oversees the election process in each state.

Unconstitutional

• Not in accordance with the Constitution.

• In accordance with the Constitution.

• A law that is valid and enforceable.

• A principle that supports the Constitution.

Veto

• The power of the president to reject a bill passed by Congress.

• The ability of Congress to override a presidential decision.

• A method for the Supreme Court to review laws.

• The process by which a bill is introduced in Congress.