Practice Questions on Federalism: AP US Government and Politics

📚 Topic Summary

Federalism is the division of powers between a national (federal) government and state governments. It's a cornerstone of the US political system, ensuring that power isn't concentrated in one place. Understanding the different types of powers (expressed, implied, reserved, concurrent) and how they interact is key to grasping how federalism works in practice.

This division creates a dynamic relationship where the balance of power between the federal and state governments is constantly negotiated. Landmark Supreme Court cases, like McCulloch v. Maryland, have significantly shaped this relationship. Thinking about real-world examples, like state responses to federal policies or the ongoing debate over immigration, can help solidify your understanding.

🧠 Part A: Vocabulary

Match the term with its correct definition:

1. Terms: Expressed Powers, Implied Powers, Reserved Powers, Concurrent Powers, Enumerated Powers
2. Definitions:
   1. Powers specifically granted to the federal government in the Constitution.
   2. Powers held by both the federal and state governments.
   3. Powers not delegated to the federal government, nor prohibited to the states, are reserved to the states or the people.
   4. Powers explicitly stated in the Constitution.
   5. Powers authorized by the Constitution that, while not explicitly stated, are implied through the necessary and proper clause.

Instructions: Write the letter of the definition next to the corresponding term.

📝 Part B: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the paragraph with the correct words from the list below.

Word List: federal, states, tenth, national, constitution, supremacy

The principle of federalism is enshrined in the U.S. __________, which divides power between the __________ government and the __________. The __________ Amendment reinforces the idea that powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states. The __________ clause ensures that federal law is supreme when there is a conflict between state and federal law, asserting the __________ government's authority.

🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking

Explain how the balance of power between the federal government and the states has shifted over time. Provide at least two specific examples of policies or Supreme Court cases that illustrate this shift.