1. The Legislative Branch

2. Terminology Legislature- a governing body.
Legislator- a representative
National Legislature refers to Congress
Bicameral structure consisting of Senate and the House of Representatives.

3. Why a Bicameral Legislature??
Historical: modeled after Parliament.
Practical: a settlement for New Jersey and Virginia Plans.
Theoretical: checks and balances

4. Terms of Congress
Each term lasts for two years and is numbered consecutively(in 111 now).
Start of new term is at noon of the 3rd of January of every odd numbered year.
Congress

5. Session Period of time where they meet.
Two sessions per term---one each year.
Neither the House or Senate can Sine die(adjourn for year) without the consent of the other.
President can Prorogue

6. Special Sessions
Only President can call Congress into special session.
Last one in 1948.
Individual branches can be called---Senate more often