Chapter 4 : Lesson 3 Canada’s Government

 A self governing territory associated with another country. (Canada remains connected to Britain as a member of the Commonwealth of Nations) Commonwealth

 An election in which all citizens can vote as long as they meet the requirements. Free Election

 A small part of a group. Minority

 A governing system in which citizens elect members of a legislature called a parliament. (Queen, Senate, House of Commons) House of Parliament  Parliamentary Democracy

 The leader of a parliamentary government who heads both the executive and legislative branches.  Stephen Harper Prime Minister

Parliament  In Canada, there are two houses:  Senate – advisory body  House of Commons – citizens vote for these people; they have most of the lawmaking authority

Judicial Branch  Canada has a Supreme Court as well as national courts.  The prime minister and his cabinet choose the judges for this court.

 A governing system in which the states share authority with a national, or central government. Federal System

 A person who wants to become or remain separate from a government or group.  Some people in Quebec want to become an independent nation. Separatist

 An election in which citizens can vote to reject or accept a suggested law. Referendum