Chapter 9- The Constitution: A More Perfect Union

Why is the Constitution considered to be a flexible or living document?

• It is a detailed document with rigid laws. 
• The Constitution can be changed over time. 
• It is made of paper, so it is flexible. 
• It is easy to change things in the Constitution. 

What does the word popular sovereignty mean?

• The most popular person has the most power.
• The power to rule comes from a monarchy. 
• The power to rule comes from the President.
• The power the Constitution has comes from the people.

What is the introduction of the Constitution called?

• Prequel
• Pre-Constitution
• Preamble
• Preliminary introduction

Why does the Preamble begin with, "We the people..."?

• The Constitution gets its power from the people. 
• "We the people" refers to the people that wrote the Constitution
• James Madison decided that was the best phrase to use.
• The phrase "We the powerful" was already taken. 

What does the legislative branch do?

• Run our court systems
• Make and propose laws
• Makes treaties
• Vetoes laws

Why are members of the House of Representatives based upon population and members of the Senate are represented by two from every state?

• To make sure small states did not become too powerful
• Because James Madison thought this would be the best system. 
• To balance the rights of small and large states. 
• To let larger states become more powerful than smaller states. 

What can the legislative branch NOT do?

• Command military 
• Raise taxes & army
• Impeach the President
• Have control of the budget

What can the executive branch NOT do?

• Appoint federal judges
• Propose new taxes
• Make treaties
• Grant pardons

What can the Judicial Branch NOT do?

• Decide on issues between states
• Decide on issues between federal government and states
• Interpret if laws are Constitutional
• Veto laws

What is the main role of Congress?

• To impeach the President
• To appoint federal judges
• To make and propose laws
• To veto laws