1. Principles of the Constitution
How Does the Constitution Work
Principles of the Constitution

2. Popular Sovereignty Definition – A government in which the people rule
This means they participate by voting.
Example –The people give consent of the governed and therefore are the source of all government authority.

3. Consent of the governed
Permission of the people to be governed.
Example: If people don't like a senator they have the right to kick him out if enough people agree that he/she is doing a bad job. Voting.

4. Federalism
Definition – A system of government in which powers are shared by the state and national government.
Concurrent Powers
Delegated Powers
Reserved Powers
The national government has the power to regulate trade between states but state governments have the power to regulate trade within state borders.
CP: powers that both the state and national government has.
DP: powers “delegated” to the National Government. Only the power that the people give it.
RP powers “reserved” for the state, powers not granted to the National Government in the Constitution.

5. Federalism
Example: Oklahoma teachers get a raise!!! Only the national government can declare war. The Norman Fire Department gets a new fire station.

6. Separation of Power
Definition – Divides the roles of government into 3 branches, Executive, Legislative, and Judicial.
Why? So that one person or one group of people do not control everything and become to powerful.
Example: The President is responsible for executing, enforcing and carrying out laws.

7. Separation of power Judicial- Interprets the laws
Example- The Supreme Court declares a law unconstitutional.
Executive- enforces, carries out, or executes the laws
The President signs the new bill into a law.
Legislative- makes the laws
Example- Congress passes a law on immigration.

8. Check and Balances
Definition – Each of the 3 branches of government has a little control, or check, on the other 2 branches.
This balances power between the 3, ensuring that none of the branches get out of control.
Example – The Congress can override a presidential veto law.

9. Limited Government
Definition – Everybody has to follow the same laws, even members of the government.
If a Representative killed a man, he would face a trial just like everybody else.
Example: The Rule of Law says everyone is under the law.

10. Judicial Review Courts decide if govt. acts violate constitution
Marbury v. Madison established judicial review.
Example: Supreme Court has the power to declare laws unconstitutional
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