Question

unit 3b: government and
student instructions: circle or mark the letter that correctly answers the question.

1. which of the following best explains why government powers are divided among the

a. to make the government faster
b. to prevent one branch from becoming too powerful.
c. to give all branches the same job
d. to allow one branch to control the others

1. why is the judicial branch important to the balance of power?

a. it enforces laws
b. it writes new laws
c. it interprets laws and can declare them unconstitutional
d. it chooses members of the executive branch

1. which situation best demonstrates the checks and balances system?

a. the president writes a new law without congress
b. congress overrides a presidential veto
c. the supreme court enforces laws
d. the president declares a law without approval

1. how does the executive branch check the power of the legislative branch?

a. by vetoing laws passed by congress
b. by writing new laws
c. by declaring laws unconstitutional
d. by changing the constitution

1. what is one way the judicial branch checks the power of the executive branch?

a. by vetoing executive orders
b. by approving presidential appointments
c. by declaring actions unconstitutional
d. by creating new departments

Explanation:

1. The separation of government powers among branches is mainly to prevent one branch from becoming too powerful. This is a fundamental principle in many democratic systems to ensure a balance of power.
2. The judicial branch's role in interpreting laws and being able to declare them unconstitutional is crucial for maintaining the balance of power. It acts as a check on the other branches.
3. Congress overriding a presidential veto is a classic example of the checks and balances system. It shows one branch (legislative - Congress) checking the power of another (executive - President).
4. The executive branch (President) checks the legislative branch (Congress) by vetoing laws passed by Congress. This is a direct way for the executive to influence the legislative process.
5. The judicial branch checks the executive branch by declaring actions unconstitutional. This power allows the judicial branch to review and limit the actions of the executive.

Answer:

1. B. To prevent one branch from becoming too powerful
2. C. It interprets laws and can declare them unconstitutional
3. B. Congress overrides a presidential veto
4. A. By vetoing laws passed by Congress
5. C. By declaring actions unconstitutional