Unit 7: US Government

"We the People"
- Main Idea: Represents the concept of popular sovereignty, indicating that the government's power derives from the consent of the governed.
Purpose of the Preamble
- Outlines the intentions and goals of the new government.

Legislative Branch (Congress)
  - Main Responsibility: Responsible for making and writing laws.
  - Composition: Consists of two houses:
    - House of Representatives: Representation is based on population.
    - Senate: Each state has 2 senators, totaling 100 senators in Congress.
  - Total Members: 435 Representatives; New York has 26 representatives in the House.
Executive Branch (President)
  - Main Responsibility: Enforces laws passed by Congress.
  - Key Roles:
    - Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
    - Has the power to veto legislation.
    - Works with the Cabinet to assist in carrying out presidential duties.
Judicial Branch (Supreme Court & Federal Courts)
  - Main Responsibility: Interprets laws and ensures they comply with the Constitution.
  - Power of Judicial Review: The ability to decide if laws or executive actions are constitutional.
  - Supreme Court Justices: Appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, not elected by the public.

Separation of Powers: Each branch of government has distinct responsibilities to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power.
Checks and Balances: Each branch has the capability to limit the powers of the others, promoting a balance of power.
Legislative Process: The steps a bill must go through to become law.
Federalism: Division of power among national, state, and local governments. Examples of responsibilities include education (state level) and defense (national level).
Rule of Law: The principle that laws apply to everyone equally, including government officials.
Popular Sovereignty: Citizens have the authority to elect their leaders.
Civic Participation: Various ways citizens can engage in democracy, including:
- Petitions: Formal requests to government.
- Contacting Representatives: Engaging with elected officials regarding issues.

Purpose of the Bill of Rights: To safeguard individual liberties and rights from governmental infringement.
Five Freedoms of the First Amendment:
  - Religion: Freedom of religion, including the establishment and exercise of religion.
  - Assembly: Right to gather peacefully.
  - Press: Freedom of the press to publish news and opinions.
  - Petition: Right to address the government and express grievances.
  - Speech: Freedom of speech, protecting the ability to express ideas and opinions.
Limits on First Amendment Rights: Not all expressions are protected, such as threats or incitements to violence.
Key Amendments:
  - 2nd Amendment: Right to bear arms.
  - 4th Amendment: Protection from unreasonable search and seizure; requires a warrant.
  - 5th Amendment: Right to remain silent, protection against self-incrimination.
  - 6th Amendment: Right to a speedy and public trial by jury in criminal cases.

Structure of NY State Legislature: Consists of two parts:
- Senate
- Assembly
Main Officials in the NY State Executive Branch:
  - Governor: Chief executive officer of the state.
  - Lieutenant Governor: Assists the Governor and assumes their role if necessary.
  - Comptroller: Oversees financial management and auditing.
  - Attorney General: The chief legal officer of the state.

Create various study materials to aid in exam preparation, such as:
  - Outline format with detailed information on each term/topic.
  - Online games to reinforce knowledge and make learning engaging.
  - Flashcards for quick reviews of key concepts and definitions.
Seek assistance for study guide creation from teachers, including Ms. Nunz, Mr. Lucano, or Ms. Mirabelli for additional support!