How effectively are powers separated in the American government to create a system of checks and balances?

Structure of U.S. Constitution 7 Articles I: Legislative Branch II: Executive Branch III: Judicial Branch IV: States V: Amendments VI: Debts, Supremacy, and Oaths VII: Ratification

Powers of National Government Articles I – III All powers given to national government Powers exist in silos Purpose is to ensure no single branch holds all the power

How effectively are powers separated in the American government to create a system of checks and balances?

Separation of Powers

Constitution Scavenger Hunt

Checks and Balances Effectiveness Works in theory: Powers do exist in silos Each branch DOES have ability to keep other branches in check Susceptible to partisan politics: Danger exists when one party controls all branches Divided branches do better job of checking power