1. Preamble and Clauses

2. The Preamble & Schoolhouse Rock

4. Structure of Constitution
Preamble – opening paragraph of Constitution which states the purpose of the Constitution
- Constitution begins with the words “We the people” to show that the new government was of the people, not the state
Articles – outlines powers of the national government in the Constitution
Amendments – changes made to the original Constitution

6. Six Reasons Why Constitution Was Written
1) “To Form a More Perfect Union” – stronger central government than what existed under the Articles of Confederation
2) “Establish Justice” – Fair treatment and rules/rights of people accused of crimes
3) “Insure domestic tranquility” – settle disputes between states and national government

7. Six Reasons Why Constitution Was Written
4) “Provide for the Common Defense” – protect state and vital US interests
5) “To promote the general welfare” – stable, responsive government to raise standard of living in each state
6) “Secure the blessings of liberty for ourselves and our posterity” – protect our natural rights throughout our nation’s history

9. Articles of the Constitution
ROLE OF GOVERNMENT
Article I
defines the Legislative Branch, its powers, members, and workings.
Article II
defines the Executive Branch, its powers, duties, and impeachment
Article III
defines Judicial Branch and treason
Article IV
regulates state powers and interaction with the federal gov’t.
Article V
Article of the Constitution that sets up the amendment process
Article VI
Constitution is supreme law of the land
Article VII
addresses ratification process of Constitution

10. Clauses of the Constitution
Subject
Commerce
“Power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, borrow and coin money, declare war, maintain standing army, create post offices
Necessary and Proper (Elastic)
Congress can make laws necessary for the execution of their powers
Equal Protection (Due Process)
nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process or equal protection of law

11. Clauses of the Constitution
Subject
Reserved Powers
powers not delegated to the federal government by the Constitution are reserved to the states
Establishment
Congress is prohibited from establishing a national religion
Ex Post Facto
can’t accuse person of crime if no previous law existed at the time of the crime