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Social Studies Grade 6-8 Answer Key

US Government & Civics

Describe the three branches of government, checks and balances, and rights of citizens.

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US Government & Civics

Describe the three branches of government, checks and balances, and rights of citizens.

Social Studies - Grade 6-8

Instructions: Answer in complete sentences. Use vocabulary: legislative, executive, judicial, veto, amendment, checks and balances.
  1. 1

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

    Legislative (Congress) makes laws; Executive (President) enforces laws; Judicial (Supreme Court) interprets laws.
  2. 2

    What does 'checks and balances' mean?

    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.
  3. 3

    What is a presidential veto?

    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).
  4. 4

    How is the US Constitution changed or updated?

    The Constitution is changed through amendments. An amendment must be approved by 2/3 of Congress and ratified by 3/4 of the states.
  5. 5

    Name two rights guaranteed by the First Amendment.

    Any two of: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, right to petition the government.
  6. 6

    What is the difference between a democracy and a republic?

    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.
  7. 7

    Name two civic responsibilities of US citizens.

    Any two of: voting, jury duty, paying taxes, obeying laws, serving in the military if called, staying informed.
  8. 8

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

    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.
LivePhysics.com Social Studies - Grade 6-8 - Answer Key