Guided Notes

Define a representative democracy  A type of government where voters choose representatives to make and enforce laws for them.

Federal Republic  A federal republic means that power is divided between the state and federal governments. A president serves as the leader of the nation.

Examples of a federal republic  Education-Is considered a state issue with limited interference from the federal government.  Laws State Law-Speed limits Federal Law-Murder

Branches of government  Our government is broken down into how many branches? 3  The three branches of government are : Executive (president), Legislative (Congress) and Judicial (Supreme Court)  Why did the constitution divide the government? So no one branch is more powerful than another; checks and balances.

Census  What is a census? A count of a governments citizens.  How often is a census performed in the U.S.? Every 10 years.

Census Continued  What branch of government is most affected by a census? The Legislative Branch  How? The number of representatives (to the house) in each state is determined by population. The more accurate the count of the population, the more representatives a state may receive. More representatives mean a stronger "voice” in Congress.

Citizenship Rights and Responsibilities in a Democracy  Rights  1. To a prompt and fair trial by a jury.  2. Freedom to express yourself (speech).  3. Freedom to pursue “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”  4. Run for elected office.  5. Freedom to worship as you wish.  6. To vote in elections for public officials.

Citizenship Rights and Responsibilities in a Democracy  Responsibilities  1. Support and defend the Constitution.  2. Respect and obey local, state and federal laws.  3. Participate in your local community.  4. Respect the rights, beliefs and opinions of others.  5. Defend the country if the need should arise.  6. Serve on a jury when called upon.