Structure & Function of The Federal Government

Which branch (or branches) of the federal government enforces the laws?

• Judicial

• Executive

• Legislative and Judicial

• Judicial and Executive

Answer explanation

The founders created a form of government with 3 branches.

Each branch has it's own separate responsibilities and powers.

This Constitutional Principle is known as Separation of Powers.

How many can you remember?

.Separation of powers is a defining principle of the U.S. Government. Three of the powers listed below are reserved for the judicial branch of the federal government. Identify the power that is NOT a power for the Judicial branch.

•   Interpret Laws  

•   Declare War  & Make Taxes

• Sentence offenders  

• Establish Judicial procedures  

Answer explanation

The U.S. Congress (Legislative Branch) has the power to declare war and create taxes.

The enumerated powers of Congress are listed in Article I Section 8 of the Constitution.

. Look at the choices below and select the responsibilities that apply to the Legislative Branch.

• a. Proposes the Federal Budget (NOT Passes)

  b. Formally recognizes other nations. (Diplomacy)

• a. Sentences those who break the law.

  b. Interprets (and applies) the laws.

• a. Initiates impeachment proceedings against members of the other two branches.

  b. Approves treaties with foreign nations.

Look at the choices below and select the responsibilities that apply to the Executive Branch.

• a. Proposes the Federal Budget (NOT Passes)

  b. Formally recognizes other nations. (Diplomacy)

• a. Initiates impeachment proceedings against members of the other two branches.

  b. Approves treaties with foreign nations.

• a. Sentences those who break the law.

  b. Interprets (and applies) the laws.

Look at the choices below and select the responsibilities that apply to the Judicial Branch.

• a. Sentences those who break the law.

  b. Interprets (and applies) the laws.

• a. Initiates impeachment proceedings against members of the other two branches.

  b. Approves treaties with foreign nations.

• a. Proposes the Federal Budget (NOT Passes)

  b. Formally recognizes other nations. (Diplomacy)

The system of checks and balances established by the U.S. Constitution can involve more than one branch checking another branch on one issue.

Which example shows two branches of the federal government checking the other branches?

 

• The Speaker of the House presided over the Supreme Court’s hearings in Bush v. Gore

• Chief Justice William Rehnquist presided over Congress’s impeachment trial of President Clinton

• A government shutdown ended in 1996 after the Supreme Court ruled that Congress’ budget was unconstitutional

• In the Supreme Court case, Bush v. Gore, the state of Florida’s ballot recount was ordered to halt, resulting in the election of President Bush over opponent Al Gore