Understanding the Executive Branch

Which article of the U.S. Constitution establishes the executive branch of government?

• Article I

• Article II

• Article III

• Article IV

What is the main function of the Federal Reserve?

• Enforce laws

• Conduct monetary policy

• Interpret the Constitution

• Make treaties

What is a "pardon" as used by the President?

• A law passed by Congress

• A formal forgiveness of a crime

• A type of executive order

• A trade agreement

Which body is responsible for confirming presidential appointments to the Cabinet?

• House of Representatives

• Senate

• Supreme Court

• Federal Reserve

Which of the following is a responsibility of the executive branch in foreign policy?

• Declaring war

• Negotiating treaties

• Passing laws

• Interpreting laws

How does the Federal Reserve influence the availability of credit in the economy?

• By setting tax rates

• By adjusting short-term interest rates

• By passing federal laws

• By issuing executive orders

What is the main purpose of the federal budget process?

• To elect the President

• To allocate government spending and revenue

• To interpret the Constitution

• To appoint Supreme Court justices

Which of the following best describes "executive privilege"?

• The President's power to veto laws

• The President's right to keep certain communications confidential

• The President's ability to declare war

• The President's power to appoint judges

Compare the main functions of the executive and legislative branches.

• Both interpret laws

• Executive enforces laws; legislative makes laws

• Both command the military

• Both negotiate treaties

Which of the following is an example of a trade-off the government might consider when making economic policy?

• Choosing between increasing spending on defense or education

• Deciding who will be President

• Appointing a new Supreme Court justice

• Issuing a pardon