๐ Topic Summary
The separation of powers is a core principle of the United States government, designed to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful. It divides governmental authority among the legislative (Congress), executive (President), and judicial (Supreme Court) branches. Each branch has its own distinct responsibilities, and a system of checks and balances allows each branch to limit the power of the others, ensuring a balance of authority and preventing tyranny. This foundational concept is crucial for understanding how the U.S. government functions and protects individual liberties.
๐ Part A: Vocabulary
Match each term with its correct definition:
- Term: Veto
- Term: Impeachment
- Term: Judicial Review
- Term: Federalism
- Term: Checks and Balances
- Definition: The power of the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional.
- Definition: The division of power between a central government and state governments.
- Definition: A system where each branch of government can limit the power of the other branches.
- Definition: The power of the President to reject a bill passed by Congress.
- Definition: The process by which a legislative body formally levels charges against a high official of government.
Answer Key: 1-D, 2-E, 3-A, 4-B, 5-C
โ๏ธ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided:
(Congress, President, Supreme Court, laws, unconstitutional)
The legislative branch, known as ___________, is responsible for creating __________. The executive branch, headed by the ___________, enforces these laws. The judicial branch, led by the ___________, interprets the laws and can declare them ___________ if they violate the Constitution.
Answer Key: Congress, laws, President, Supreme Court, unconstitutional
๐ง Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain how the system of checks and balances, inherent in the separation of powers, prevents tyranny and protects individual liberties in the United States.