Civics Education - The Constitution

Vocabulary flashcards covering the methods of constitutional adoption, the characteristics of a good constitution, and its importance to a nation.

Preamble

An introduction to a document, such as the one found at the beginning of the 1996 constitution.

Adoption of the Constitution

The process of approving the copy of a draft constitution.

Adoption through Parliament

A method where a draft constitution is taken to parliament for debate and adoption by members of parliament, used three times in Zambia.

Constituent Assembly (CA)

A body of representatives elected by interest groups to formulate, amend, or adopt a country's constitution, considered more democratic and free from government interference.

Referendum

A method of adopting a constitution where the draft is subjected to a public vote; it requires more than half of the votes cast ($50\%+1$) for adoption.

Assent

The action taken by the Republican President to legitimise the draft copy of the constitution after it has been approved by the public.

National Constitutional Conference (NCC)

A conventional method of constitutional adoption where members are drawn from interest groups, but the final draft must be adopted by parliament.

Clear

A characteristic of a good constitution stating that the language used must not be too difficult for ordinary citizens to understand.

Stable/Durable

The quality of a good constitution to stand the test of time and last for a long period.

Rigid vs. Flexible

A balance a good constitution must maintain: neither too difficult to change nor too easy to encourage tampering with basic principles.

Safeguarding Rights

An important function of a constitution to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens.

Democratic Governance

A system of rule that a constitution ensures by protecting and promoting the rule of the people.