Social studies

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the United States, which established a weak federal government and was ultimately replaced by the current Constitution.

Constitution

The supreme law of the United States that outlines the national framework of government.

Amendment

A change or addition to the Constitution, added over time to address new issues.

Legislative Branch

The part of the government responsible for making laws, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Checks and balances

A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to limit the powers of the others.

Congress

The legislative body of the United States federal government, composed of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Senate

One of the two houses of Congress, consisting of 100 members, with two from each state.

House of Representatives

The lower house of Congress, consisting of 435 members whose representation is based on the population of each state.

Executive Branch

The part of government responsible for enforcing laws and administering the government, headed by the President.

President's Cabinet

A group of the President's advisors, made up of the heads of the 15 executive departments.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government responsible for interpreting laws and administering justice, including federal courts.

Supreme Court Justices

Nine members of the highest federal court in the United States, who serve for life and are appointed by the President.

Federal Courts

Courts that handle cases involving federal laws, including bankruptcy, civil, and criminal cases.

Responsibilities of the Executive Branch

Enforce federal laws, nominate federal judges, conduct foreign policy, and serve as commander-in-chief.

Requirements to become President

Must be a natural born citizen, at least 35 years old, and have been a resident of the U.S. for 14 years.

How a bill becomes a law

A process where a proposed bill is introduced in Congress, reviewed by a committee, debated, voted on, and sent to the President for approval.

Main ideals of the Constitution

Popular sovereignty, federalism, separation of powers, and individual rights.

Comparing the Constitution and Declaration of Independence

Both outline the rights of Americans; the Declaration focuses on the rights of the people, while the Constitution focuses on the structure of government.