The Constitution – Structure and

PrinciplesDaily Cornell’s Note and Activity

October 8th, 2010

Background Information

The Founders created the Constitution more than 200 years ago.

Separation of powers

Legislative, executive, and judicial

REPUBLIC – power is held by voting citizens through their elected representatives

Provides citizens with information about their rights and about what they may reasonably expect of their government.

The Success of this system DEPENDS on an INFORMED, participating citizenry

An understanding of the Constitution is KEY to understanding the structure and daily function of American government.

Structure Simple and brief, 7000 words

Divided into THREE parts – preamble, articles, and amendments

Preamble – introduction, states why the Constitution was written

Articles (7) – cover general topics Article I establishes the legislative branch

Article II – create an executive branch

Article III – establishes a Supreme Court with JURISDICTION, or specific authority

Article VI – contains the SUPREMACY CLAUSE, establishing that the Constitution, laws passed by Congress and the treaties of the United States shall be the “Supreme Law of the Land.”

Amendments –or changes, 27 and counting ….

Principles

1 Popular sovereignty – rule by the people

2 Federalism – power is divided between the national and state government.

3 Separation of powers – each branch has its responsibilities.

4 Check and balances – each branch of government holds some control over the other two branches

1 VETOEING – president power to check the Congress, may be override by 2/3 vote of each house.

5 Judicial review – Courts have power to declare laws and action of Congress and the president unconstitutional

6 Limited government – the Constitution limits the powers of government by making explicit grants of authority.

Independent Practice

Read pages 63 – 67 and complete chapter 3 section 1 assessment.

Debrief

Close

The United States government is “government of laws, and not of men.” Explain

John Adams