1. The Structure of the Constitution
Ch. 3 Sec. 3
CE 2c and CE 6d
Mr. Collins and Mrs. Kozlik

3. The Preamble
The Constitution’s introduction that explains why the Constitution was written
The preamble begins with the phrase “We the people” which establishes that the power of government comes from the people

4. Purposes of U.S. Government
To form a union
To establish justice
To ensure domestic peace
To provide defense

5. Separation of Powers
Government is separated into three branches to meet the Preamble’s goals
Legislative – makes the laws (Congress)
Executive – carries out or enforces the laws (President, etc.)
Judicial – interprets laws (court system)

6. Constitution’s Flexibility
One major key to constitution’s success is it’s overall room for change
Constitution can be amended or changed in two ways:
By 2/3 vote of Congress
By national convention

7. Amending the Constitution
Most amendments to Constitution come from Congress
2/3 members of both houses have to propose amendment
¾ of states have to ratify it
States can also hold a national convention to amend the Constitution

8. Expressed vs. Implied Powers
Items specifically mentioned in the Constitution are expressed or enumerated powers (ex: the power to coin money)
The “necessary and proper” clause: allows Congress to exercise powers not specifically mentioned in the Constitution
These extra powers are known as implied powers (ex: passing a bill to provide assistance to areas hit by a hurricane)

9. Role of Supreme Court
Final interpretation of the Constitution lies with the Supreme Court
Supreme Court determines if laws are constitutional or unconstitutional
If a law is unconstitutional, this means the law violates our basic rights