Detailing & Understanding the Constitution CT packet information and Proposed Reforms

CT Exercises Quiz 1.Using question #10, part 1, how many days does Congress have to determine if the President is fit to return to his job? 2.Explain your answer for #7, part 2 by showing the math. 3.Who chooses the President if no one wins an electoral college majority? (#6, part 2) 4.What is the answer to #3b in part 1? 5.What is the answer to #8 in part 2?

Discussion of Exercises Part A: Basic Provisions – Define & explain article subjects & essential vocabulary: – Go over separation of powers – Discuss checks and balances – How is the amendment process a great example of federalism?amendment process – Outline the differences between civil liberties and civil rights with examples

The Amendment Process ProposalRatification 2/3 of both Houses of Congress 2/3 call a National Convention 3/4 of State Legislatures 3/4 of State Ratifying Conventions Constitution Amended

Discussion of Exercises Part B: Majority & Supermajority: – Explain terms – Discuss the rationale behind simple, 2/3, & 3/4 majorities

Modern Reforms Reduce separation of powers? – Eliminate gridlock Define term Give example – Limit interference with government agencies Discuss examples – Make president stronger & more accountable with powers over the Congress. Impact

Modern Reforms Suggestions to reduce separation of powers: How would these adversely or positively affect the US? – Amend the Constitution to allow members of Congress to be in Cabinet – Allow the President to dissolve an ineffective Congress and hold special elections – Allow Congress to call for a loss of confidence vote in the President – Allow Congress & President to run as a ticket in each district – Allow the President only one 6-year term – Lengthen the HOR term to 4-years instead of 2

Modern Reforms Suggestions for making the system less democratic? – Limit by law taxes collected each year – Require a balanced budget – President should regain rescission authority through a line-item veto Clinton et. al. v. New York et. al. – Limit the power of courts to use judicial review

BOR Projects assigned. Due October 8 th !