3-1 (9-15) Basic Principles of the Constitution

Journal (9-15 Constitution) 1 paragraph Why has the plan of government provided by the U.S. Constitution been successful for more than 200 years?

Big Ideas 1) 5 Basic principles of U.S. Constitution 2) People’s authority over government 3) Constitution providing limited government 4) How are states’ rights protected by the Constitution?

5 Basic Principles of the Constitution 1) Popular Sovereignty government’s authority comes from the people -rules for election of officials

5 Basic Principles of the Constitution 2) Limited Government  ensures individual liberties (Bill of Rights)  No power to grant titles of nobility

5 Basic Principles of the Constitution 3) Separation of Powers  Power divided amongst three branches  Congress – makes laws (legislative)  President – enforces laws (executive)  Supreme Court – interprets laws (judicial)

5 Basic Principles of the Constitution 4) Checks and Balances each branch has power to restrain the other branches  Veto – power of the president to veto legislation set by Congress  2/3 Vote – Congress can override veto with a 2/3 approval in both the House and Senate  Judicial Review – power to declare laws… unconstitutional -- laws that violate the Constitution  Copy chart on page 49 into your notes

Marbury v Madison Watch the video and summarize its importance in y0ur notes feature=related feature=related

5 Basic Principles of the Constitution 5) Federalism – powers are divided between federal, state and local governments  Government wanted to balance state powers ensured but needed strong central government