1. Constitutional Handbookpp

2. The Constitution: Key Concepts
Preamble: introduction of the Constitution
Popular Sovereignty: people rule
Republicanism: people are the source of power
Limited Government – no one is above the law
Federalism – power is divided between the states and the national government

3. Principles of the Constitution
Separation of Powers – government is divided into 3 branches

4. Principles (cont’d)
Checks and Balances – each branch can check or limit the power of the other branches
Individual Rights – Bill of Rights protects the basic liberties and rights of individuals

5. Amending the Constitution
Can be proposed by 2/3 of votes by both houses of Congress
Or 2/3 of state legislatures
Ratification of an amendment requires ¾ of the states to approve

6. Terms and Qualifications for Congress
House of Representatives
Term: 2 years
Qualifications: must be 25 years old, 7 years as a citizen
Senate
Term: 6 years
Qualifications: must be 30 years old, 9 years as a citizen