Understanding the Structure and Powers of the U.S. Congress

This video introduces Unit 2 of the AP Government curriculum, focusing on the structure and powers of the U.S. Congress. It explains the bicameral nature of Congress, detailing the roles and responsibilities of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The video also covers the legislative process, including how bills become laws, and discusses the enumerated and implied powers of Congress as outlined in Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution. Additional resources for exam preparation are provided.

What is the primary focus of this video tutorial?

• The judicial branch of the U.S. government

• The structure and powers of the U.S. Congress

• The role of the President in government

• The history of the U.S. Constitution

How is representation determined in the Senate?

• Based on state GDP

• Equally, with two senators per state

• By population size

• By the number of registered voters

What is the term length for a U.S. Senator?

• Four years

• Two years

• Six years

• Eight years

Which house of Congress is known for having more structured debates?

• The Senate

• The House of Representatives

• Both houses equally

• Neither house

What must happen for a bill to become a law?

• Both houses of Congress must agree on identical versions

• It must be voted on by the public

• It must be approved by the President alone

• It must be passed by the Supreme Court

Which power allows Congress to pass a federal budget?

• The power to declare war

• The power to coin money

• The power of the purse

• The power to raise revenue

What is the primary source of revenue for Congress?

• Sales taxes

• Tariffs

• Income taxes

• Property taxes

Which clause gives Congress implied powers?

• The Supremacy Clause

• The Commerce Clause

• The Necessary and Proper Clause

• The Establishment Clause

What is an example of an implied power of Congress?

• Declaring war

• Passing environmental legislation

• Coining money

• Raising an army

What is the purpose of the Necessary and Proper Clause?

• To give the President more authority

• To establish the judicial branch

• To allow Congress to pass laws needed to execute its enumerated powers

• To limit the powers of Congress