📚 Topic Summary
Federal and unitary systems are two fundamental ways countries organize power. A federal system divides power between a central government and regional governments (like states or provinces), as seen in the United States or Canada. Each level has specific powers and responsibilities. A unitary system concentrates power in a central government, which may delegate authority to local entities but ultimately retains control, like in France or Japan. Understanding the distribution of power is crucial for understanding how these governments function.
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their correct definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Federalism |
A. A system where power is concentrated in a central government. |
| 2. Unitary System |
B. Powers specifically granted to the national government by the constitution. |
| 3. Reserved Powers |
C. The division of powers between a central government and regional governments. |
| 4. Delegated Powers |
D. Powers kept by the regional governments in a federal system. |
| 5. Concurrent Powers |
E. Powers that are shared by both the national and regional governments. |
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph with the correct terms:
In a __________ system, the central government holds the most power. Examples include the United Kingdom and France. In contrast, __________ divides power between a national government and state governments, such as in the United States and Germany. Powers not specifically given to the national government but also not denied to the states are known as __________. A key advantage of a federal system is that it allows for __________ to address local issues while maintaining national unity. This is distinct from delegated powers, which are explicitly given to the national government. Understanding these concepts is vital to differentiate unitary and federal systems.
🌍 Part C: Critical Thinking
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both federal and unitary systems. Provide examples to support your arguments.