1. Principle of Government
Standard: SSCG3 The student will demonstrate knowledge of the United States Constitution. a. Explain the main ideas in debate over ratification; include those in The Federalist. b. Analyze the purpose of government stated in the Preamble of the United States Constitution. c. Explain the fundamental principles upon which the United States Constitution is based; include the rule of law, popular sovereignty, separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism.
Essential Question: What principles is our government founded on?
Learning Target: I can explain the fundamental principles upon which the United States Constitution is based; include the rule of law, popular sovereignty, separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism.

2. Principles of Government Notes
Popular Sovereignty
Limited Government/Rule of Law
Checks & Balances
Federalism
Separation of Powers

3. Popular Sovereignty Who gives the government its power?
Definition: the right of the people to rule themselves
Preamble: “We the People”
As nation grew, more people included in “We”

4. Limited Government How is abuse of power prevented?
Definition: everyone must obey the law
There are restrictions on the power of government
“Rule of Law” – people, including those in power, cannot change the law to serve their own interests

5. Federalism How is power shared?
Definition: a system of government in which power is divided between a central government and smaller political units, such as states
Enumerated or Delegated powers – assigned to national government
Conduct wars, negotiate treaties
Reserved powers – given to state government
Education
Concurrent powers – shared among governments
Taxes

7. Separation of Powers How is power divided?
Definition: division of basic government roles into branches
No one branch of government gets all the power

8. Checks and Balances How is power evenly distributed?
Definition: each branch of government can exercise controls over other branches
Branches are separate, but rely on one another
Branches have to work together