1. TCI Chapter 9 The Constitution: A More Perfect Union
How has the Constitution created “a more perfect union”

2.
I’m JUST A BILL

3. BRANCHES of GOVERNMENT
BRANIPOP

4. Checks & Balance System (9.6)
System established by Constitution so that each branch has equal powers
Ensures no branch is more powerful than the other
Purpose is to make sure that the government represents people fairly
Legislative
Judicial
Executive

5. Checks & Balance System (9.6)

6. Amendment Process (9.7) Changes to the Constitution
Allows Constitution to be flexible and represent the country as it changes
Original 10 amendments = Bill of Rights (12 proposed)
2 Not passed
Currently 27 amendments (outlawing slavery, women’s right to vote, prohibition, voting age 18, etc.)

7. Amending the Constitution
An amendment can be proposed by a two-thirds vote of BLANK or by a national convention held by Congress at the request of BLANK. In order to be ratified, the amendment must then be approved by BLANK, or BLANK.

8. The Federal System (9.8) National Government powers = Delegated Powers
Powers given only to Federal Gov.
Expressed = powers stated in the Constitution
Implied = powers not stated in the Constitution but alluded to in the writing
Congress shall make any law that is “necessary and proper”
Shared Powers = Concurrent Powers
Powers given to both Federal and State Gov.
State Government Powers = Reserved Powers
Powers given only to State Gov.

9. Some Delegated Powers Declare War Maintain Armed Forces
Regulate Interstate trade and foreign trade (commerce compromise)
Admit New States
Coin Money
Postal System

10. Some Reserved Powers Establish and Maintain Schools
Establish Local Governments
Regulate business within State
Marriage Laws
Public Safety/Police

11. Some Concurrent Powers
Maintain Law and Order
Taxes
Borrow Money
Establish Courts

12. Commerce Clause
Making the entire United States one common market place, a free-trade zone

13. Participation in Government (9.9)
Majority Rule = 51%
The basic principle of democracy that says laws are passed by majority vote
Basic idea of our democracy
Interest Groups
Specific organizations with targeted communication to representatives
Hoping to sway votes for their particular interest

14. FLOCABULARY