Civics - 2nd Quarter Exam Study Guide

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary relevant to the Civics exam, focusing on key terms and definitions from the legislative and executive branches, as well as concepts related to the judicial system.

Bicameral Legislature

A legislative body composed of two chambers or houses.

Caucus

A group of members of Congress who share common interests and meet to pursue common legislative objectives.

Censure

A formal statement of disapproval issued by a legislative body against one of its members.

Census

An official count or survey of a population conducted every 10 years in the U.S.

Reapportionment

The process of re-distributing the 435 seats in the House based on population changes.

Gerrymandering

The practice of drawing electoral district boundaries to create an unfair political advantage.

Cloture

A procedure in the Senate used to limit or end floor debate on a bill.

Committees

Permanent groups in Congress that handle specific policy areas.

Filibuster

A tactic used in the Senate to delay or block a vote on a bill by extending debate.

Majority Leader

The head of the majority party in either the House or Senate, responsible for scheduling legislation.

Minority Leader

The head of the minority party in either the House or Senate, responsible for articulating the party's position.

Presidential Action

The final steps taken by the President on the bill, which may include signing, vetoing, or allowing it to become law without signature.

Bully Pulpit

The President's ability to use the office to influence public opinion and rally support.

Electoral College

The system established for electing the President and Vice President based on state electors.

Executive Order

A directive issued by the President that has the force of law.

Judicial Review

The power of the courts to determine the constitutionality of acts from legislative and executive branches.

Indictment

A formal accusation that there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial.

Grand Jury

A group that hears evidence and determines whether there is sufficient probable cause to issue an indictment.

Plaintiff

The person who initiates a lawsuit against another party.

Defendant

The person against whom a lawsuit is brought.