Chapter 14: The Constitution

New Words:

Articles of Confederation Branches Checks and Balances

Constitutional Convention Constitution

Match New Words with Definition:

1) The document that described the first government of the United States of America was called the ___________________________.

2) Delegates from most of the USA met to work on a document that created a stronger government. This meeting was called the ______________________________________________________.

3) The document that created a strong national government and still exists today is called the ____________________________.

4) The U.S. government is divided into three parts, or __________________________ each with its own powers and responsibilities.

5) The system that keeps any one part of the national government from becoming too powerful is called _______________________.

Answers:

1. Articles of Confederation 2. Constitutional Convention 3. Constitution

4. Branches 5. Checks and Balances

True or False:

1) __________ The key problem of the Articles of Confederation was that it made the national government too strong. (False - it was a weak document that did not clearly define the powers of the national government and state governments.

2) __________ George Washington, James Madison, and Gouverneur Morris were 3 KEY figures at the Constitutional Convention. (True)

3) During the Constitutional Convention, there were no disagreements. The delegates all had similar ideas for how the new Constitution should be written (False, many disagreements and many compromises needed to be made!)

4) The Constitution created a national government that was divided into three branches: the Executive, Legislative, and the Judicial (TRUE!)

This branch carries out laws: __________________________

This branch makes laws: _____________________________

This branch interprets laws: ___________________________

Write the name of the branch of government next to each statement that describes it:

1) __________________ This branch has the power to determine whether a law is unconstitutional.

2) __________________ The head of this branch can suggest ideas for new laws in the State of the Union speech.

3) __________________ This branch has the power to impeach government officials accused of serious crimes.

4) __________________ The head of this branch can "check" the power of the Legislative branch by vetoing any bill it passes.

5) __________________Members of this branch can accept or reject appoints to important positions the president makes.

6) __________________ The powers of this branch are "balanced" because its members are appointed by the president and approved by the Senate.