1. “One Word”
In one word, sum up the constitution. The one word must describe what it is.
Rules:
Your word cannot be complimenting nor insulting.
Example: Nice, stupid, dumb, awesome, cool, etc.

2. Amending the Constitution
3.3 Notes

3. The Amendment Process Proposing an Amendment Two Methods
2/3 Vote from both houses of congress
2/3 of the states request a constitutional convention
never been used
examples of failed proposals
12 year limit on supreme court justices
state control of oil deposits
balanced federal budget

4. The Amendment Process Ratifying an Amendment
¾ of states choose to ratify amendment
Congress can set time limit on amendment ratification (7 years)

5. Informal Legislative Changes
Belief that the constitution is a living document
Implied Powers
Through some of the more vague articles of the constitution
Congress and tax laws
Expanding the executive and judicial branches
Impeachment
Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.

6. Informal Presidential Changes
Presidential Succession
John Tyler succeeded William Henry Harrison – was made into an amendment in 1967
Foreign Affairs
Executive Agreement – does not need senate approval
Domestic Affairs
President requests congress to pass specific laws

7. Informal Judicial Changes - Court Decisions
Judicial Review – call a law or act unconstitutional
Judicial Restraint – courts should avoid social or political issues
Judicial Activism – courts should apply the constitution to social and political issues.
Changing Court Rulings
1896 – Separate but Equal
1954 – outlawed segregation

8. “Six Word Novel” Summary
In 6 words describe the entire process of creating a change to the constitution.