Week 2 - Overview of the U.S. Constitution

Question 1

What are the three branches of the national government?

Answer 1

Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.

Question 2

What are the specific powers of each branch?

Answer 2

• Legislative: Makes laws.
• Executive: Enforces and implements laws.
• Judicial: Interprets laws and the Constitution.

Question 3

What is the meaning of the terms “separation of powers” and “checks and balances?

Answer 3

Separation of powers: Division of government power among branches.

Checks and balances: Each branch can monitor and limit the actions of the other branches.

Question 4

What is the meaning of the “full faith and credit “clause? Provide an example that explains your answer.

Answer 4

States must honor the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of other states. Example: A driver’s license issued in one state is valid in all other states.

Question 5

What is the meaning of the “supremacy clause?”

Answer 5

The U.S. Constitution and federal laws are the supreme law of the land, and state laws must comply with them.