Understanding U.S. Government Basics

What is the first principle of the United States Constitution?

• Federalism

• Separation of powers

• Checks and balances

• Popular sovereignty

How many branches is the national government separated into?

• Two

• Three

• Four

• Five

Which branch of the government makes and passes laws?

• Executive

• Judicial

• Legislative

• State

What is the role of the executive branch?

• Makes laws

• Enforces laws

• Decides the meaning of laws

• Runs elections

Which branch decides the meaning of laws?

• Legislative

• Executive

• Judicial

• State

Who can decide if the United States is going to war?

• State government

• National government

• Local government

• Citizens

What is the state government responsible for?

• Making national laws

• Running elections and setting up public schools

• Declaring war

• Enforcing national laws

What must states do under the U.S. Constitution?

• Follow laws passed by the U.S. Congress

• Make their own national laws

• Declare war

• Ignore federal laws

What did President Obama say in his farewell speech?

• Voting is a part of a long American tradition

• America can make changes by showing civic virtue

• The judicial branch is the most important

• The executive branch should have more power

What did President Reagan say about voting?

• It is not important

• It is a part of a long American tradition

• Only some people should vote

• It should be done every day