1.5: Ratification of the U.S. Constitution

Question 1

Virginia Plan

Answer 1

Proposed proportional representation across states according to their population

Big states = more votes, small states = less votes

Bigger states have greater power

Question 2

New Jersey Plan

Answer 2

Proposed equal representation across the states

1 vote per state

Smaller states have greater power

Question 3

3/5 Comprimise

Answer 3

Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several States which may be included within this Union, according to their respective Numbers, which shall be determined by adding to the whole Number of free Persons, including those bound to Service for a Term of Years, and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other Persons.”

Question 4

Bicameral Legislature

Answer 4

House of Representatives
Proportional representation across states according to their population

Big states have a larger number of representatives in the House compared to smaller states.

Senate
Equal representation across the states regardless of population

Big states and small states have the same number of representatives in the Senate.

Question 5

Function of Amendments

Answer 5

Creates provisions for the expansion of democratic practices for various interest groups, state governments, individuals, and the federal government.

Amendments change who can participate and how they participate in our democracy.