The Constitution and Civic Responsibility

What is a constitution?

• A type of government

• A written plan that outlines the structure and powers of a government

• A collection of laws

• A historical document with no current relevance

Why was the United States Constitution created?

• To establish laws for individual states

• To provide guidelines for education

• To form a national government and define its powers

• To declare independence from Britain

What is a republic?

• A government where the king has all the power

• A government where officials are elected by the people

• A government where laws are made by a single ruler

• A government where there are no laws

Why do we have a republic in the United States?

• To ensure that all power lies with a single leader

• To allow for direct voting on all laws by the citizens

• To ensure that representatives elected by the people make laws

• To prevent any form of government

What is civic responsibility?

• Responsibilities of a city's mayor

• Duties each citizen has towards their country

• A list of rules for running a business

• Guidelines for international travel

Why is it important for citizens to vote?

• It helps in choosing the best sports teams

• It is a civic responsibility that helps shape the government

• It is only necessary for those interested in politics

• It has no real impact but is a good practice

What does it mean to have freedom of speech?

• You can say anything at any time without consequences

• You can speak about the government without fear of punishment

• Only positive comments about the government are allowed

• You must speak only in a specified language

How does a republic differ from a monarchy?

• In a republic, the leader is always a king or queen

• In a republic, leaders are elected rather than inheriting their position

• In a republic, there are no leaders

• In a republic, voting is not allowed

What role do citizens play in a republic?

• They have no role or influence

• They are responsible for paying taxes only

• They elect representatives who make and enforce laws

• They watch the government but do not participate

Why is it important to follow laws in a republic?

• Only because the government says so

• To avoid chaos and maintain order

• Laws are optional in a republic

• To challenge the government's authority