U.S. Government Structure and Powers

This video tutorial on Simple Civics covers the system of government section of the civics test. It explains the separation of powers, the roles of the executive, judicial, and legislative branches, and the election and succession processes for the presidency. The video also discusses the current government officials, the functions of the president's cabinet, the Supreme Court, and the division of powers between federal and state governments.

What concept prevents any one branch of the government from gaining too much power?

• Checks and Balances

• Federalism

• Judicial Review

• Separation of Powers

Which branch of the government is responsible for executing laws?

• Federal

• Executive

• Judicial

• Legislative

Who is responsible for making federal laws?

• The President

• The Vice President

• Congress

• The Supreme Court

How many years is a U.S. Senator elected for?

• Eight years

• Six years

• Four years

• Two years

Who has the power to veto bills?

• The Chief Justice

• The President

• The Vice President

• The Speaker of the House

Who becomes President if both the President and Vice President can no longer serve?

• Speaker of the House

• Secretary of State

• Chief Justice

• Senate Majority Leader

What is the highest court in the United States?

• The Supreme Court

• The District Court

• The Federal Court

• The Court of Appeals

How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

• Ten

• Nine

• Eight

• Seven

What is one power that belongs to the federal government?

• Issue driver's licenses

• Establish schools

• Conduct elections

• Declare war

What is one power that belongs to the states?

• Print money

• Declare war

• Give a driver's license

• Make treaties