U.S. Naturalization Test Study Guide

Vocabulary flashcards based on key terms, principles, and institutions covered in the U.S. Naturalization Test review notes.

US Constitution

The supreme law of the land that sets up the government, defines the government, and protects the rights and freedom of citizens.

We the People

The first three words of the Constitution that express the idea of self-government.

Amendment

A change, addition, or correction to a legal document such as the Constitution.

The Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

First Amendment

An amendment that protects basic freedoms, including freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly, and the right to petition the government.

Declaration of Independence

The document that declared the 13 colonies independent and broken away from Great Britain.

Freedom of Religion

The right that allows anyone to practice any religion, or no religion.

Rule of Law

The principle that everyone, including leaders and government officials, must follow the law and no one is above the law.

Checks and Balances

A system, along with separation of powers, that stops any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

U.S. Congress

The legislative part of the federal government that makes federal laws, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

U.S. Senate

A part of Congress consisting of 100 members who represent all people of their state for a term of 6 years.

House of Representatives

A branch of Congress with 435 voting members elected for 2-year terms, where state representation is based on population.

President of the United States

The official who leads the executive branch, serves as Commander-in-Chief of the military, signs or vetoes bills, and is elected every 4 years in November.

Speaker of the House

The leader of the House of Representatives who becomes President if both the President and Vice President can no longer serve.

President's Cabinet

A body of advisors to the President that includes positions such as Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government that interprets laws, decides what laws mean, checks if laws follow the Constitution, and resolves disputes.

Supreme Court

The highest court in the United States, composed of 9 justices.

Federal Powers

Powers specific to the federal government, such as declaring war, printing money, creating an army, and making treaties.

State Powers

Powers specific to individual states, such as providing schooling and education, creating state police, issuing driver's licenses, and managing land use and zoning.

Citizen Responsibilities and Rights

Duties exclusive to U.S. citizens, such as serving on a jury and voting in federal elections.

Pledge of Allegiance

An expression of loyalty made to the United States of America.

Flag Symbols

Elements of the U.S. flag representing the 13 original colonies (13 stripes) and the 50 states of the country (50 stars).