π Topic Summary
Understanding the different levels of government β local, state, and federal β is key to being an informed citizen. Each level has specific responsibilities and powers, and they all work together (sometimes smoothly, sometimes not!) to govern the country. Local governments handle things like schools and libraries. State governments manage things like highways and state laws. The federal government handles national issues like defense and international relations.
π³οΈ Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Federalism |
A. The process of electing officials to represent the people. |
| 2. Municipality |
B. A form of government where power is divided between a national government and state governments. |
| 3. Legislation |
C. A city, town, or other district having its own government. |
| 4. Suffrage |
D. The right to vote in political elections. |
| 5. Election |
E. Laws that have been enacted by a legislature. |
Answer Key: 1-B, 2-C, 3-E, 4-D, 5-A
π Part B: Fill in the Blanks
The __________ government is responsible for creating laws that apply to the entire country. Examples of federal responsibilities include __________, regulating interstate commerce, and declaring war. State governments handle issues within their own borders, such as education and __________. Local governments, like city councils and county boards, address issues such as __________ and local infrastructure.
Word Bank: federal, defense, transportation, public safety
Answer Key: federal, defense, transportation, public safety
π€ Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine your city council is debating whether to build a new park or improve public transportation. What are the pros and cons of each option, and how would you decide which project to support?