The Executive and Legislative Branches of Government By: Jeffrey Abrahamson

The Legislative and Executive Branches of Government Use the ABC Brainstorm Handout to write down everything you know about the Executive and Legislative branches of government. As we go through the PowerPoint fill in the guided notes.

Branches of Government: An Overview

The Legislative Branch a.k.a. Congress Article I of the Constitution established this branch. Its primary duty is to make laws, which are then pass on to the President for approval. Congress is bicameral meaning it has two parts, the House of Representatives and the Senate.

The House of Representatives In the House, representation is based on the number of people living in each state. There are a total of 435 representatives in the House. States with larger populations have more representation than states with smaller populations.

The House of Representatives MANDATORY QUALIFICATIONS: Be at least 25 years old. Be a U.S. citizen for the past 7 years. Live in the state they represent. Each representative serves a term of 2 years. No Term Limits

The Senate There are a total of 100 Senators- 2 for each state This means that each state has equal representation in the Senate. Each senator serves a term of 6 years. No Term Limits

The Senate (continued) MANDATORY QUALIFICATIONS: Be at least 30 years old. Be a U.S. citizen for the past 9 years. Live in the state they represent

Powers of Congress Powers are either 1. Enumerated/delegated (Specifically written out), 2. Implied (not written down) Some Enumerated Powers Laws controlling trade between states or between the United States and other countries. Laws about taxes and borrowing money. Approves the making money (coining money). Can declare war with other countries.

Executive Branch Article II of the Constitution created the Executive Branch. The President of the United States is the head of the executive branch of government. The executive branch of Government enforces the laws of the United States.

The President of United States The President plays a large role in making America’s laws. His job is to approve the laws that Congress creates. If he agrees, he signs it and the bill becomes a law. If the President does not like a bill, he can refuse to sign it. (Called a veto) Congress can override a veto, but to do so two-thirds of the Members of Congress must vote against the President. (RARE)

The President’s Cabinet When the President wants advice he asks his closest and most trusted advisors- called the Cabinet. The Cabinet includes the Vice President and the heads of 15 executive branch departments.

The Executive and Legislative Branches of Government: In Your Own Words Write a paragraph explaining what each branch is responsible for in your own words. Use your ABC Brainstorm handout and notes to help you complete this.