US Government & Civics Worksheet

Question 1

Name the three branches of the US government and briefly describe each one's role.

Accepted Answer

Legislative (Congress) makes laws; Executive (President) enforces laws; Judicial (Supreme Court) interprets laws.

Question 2

What does 'checks and balances' mean?

Accepted Answer

Checks and balances is the system that allows each branch of government to limit the power of the other two, preventing any single branch from becoming too powerful.

Question 3

What is a presidential veto?

Accepted Answer

A veto is when the President refuses to sign a bill passed by Congress, preventing it from becoming law (Congress can override it with a 2/3 vote).

Question 4

How is the US Constitution changed or updated?

Accepted Answer

The Constitution is changed through amendments. An amendment must be approved by 2/3 of Congress and ratified by 3/4 of the states.

Question 5

Name two rights guaranteed by the First Amendment.

Accepted Answer

Any two of: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, right to petition the government.

Question 6

What is the difference between a democracy and a republic?

Accepted Answer

In a direct democracy, citizens vote on every issue; in a republic, citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. The US is a constitutional republic.

Question 7

Name two civic responsibilities of US citizens.

Accepted Answer

Any two of: voting, jury duty, paying taxes, obeying laws, serving in the military if called, staying informed.

Question 8

Why did the Founders create a system of checks and balances?

Accepted Answer

The Founders feared too much power in any one person or group, having experienced British rule. Checks and balances protect individual liberty and prevent tyranny.

US Government & Civics

US Government & Civics

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