Understanding US Government Structure

This lesson covers the structure and function of state and local governments in the U.S., highlighting the federal system established by the Constitution. It explains the division of powers between federal and state governments, the three levels of government, and the specific structure of Connecticut's government. The lesson also discusses the role of political parties and local governance, emphasizing the importance of federalism in keeping government close to the people.

What type of government system does the US Constitution establish?

• Unitary system

• Monarchy

• Confederate system

• Federal system

Which of the following is a power granted to the federal government under the Constitution?

• Approving zoning and land use

• Issuing driver's licenses

• Declaring war

• Providing schooling

According to the Tenth Amendment, powers not given to the federal government are reserved for whom?

• The President

• The States

• The Supreme Court

• The Congress

What is one power that belongs to the states under the Constitution?

• Making treaties

• Providing education

• Creating an army

• Printing money

How many levels of government exist in the United States?

• Three

• Four

• Two

• One

Which branch of state government is responsible for making state laws?

• Federal

• Executive

• Legislative

• Judicial

Who is the head of the state executive branch?

• The Attorney General

• The Governor

• The Lieutenant Governor

• The President

What is the highest court in most state court systems?

• Appellate Court

• District Court

• Superior Court

• State Supreme Court

What are the two major political parties in the United States?

• Libertarian and Republican

• Constitution and Green

• Democratic and Republican

• Libertarian and Green

Who was elected as Connecticut's governor in 2010?

• Dannel Malloy

• Nancy Wyman

• Pedro Segura

• John Doe