7 Principles of the Constitution How Does the Constitution Work

Popular Sovereignty Definition – A government in which the ________ rule. This does not mean they get to_____, it means they___________. Example – People can run for office, campaign for individuals who run, or protest decisions made by others.

Republicanism Definition – People vote for people to ____________their _______. (_____________ Government) You cannot have the whole population vote on everything, so you vote for people who share similar beliefs and allow them to vote on your behalf.

Federalism Definition – A system of government in which _________ are ________ by the state and national governments. Example – Both national and state governments have the right to pass and enforce laws but only the national government can print money.

Separation of Power Definition – Divides the roles of government into 3 __________ (E________, L________, and J________). Why? – So that no one person or one group of people control everything and become too powerful.

Checks and Balances Definition – Each of the 3 branches of government has a little________, or ______, on the other 2 branches. This balances power between the 3, ensuring that none of the branches get______________. Example – Federal judges are nominated by the President, but have to be approved by Congress.

Limited Government Definition – Everybody has to follow the ______ laws, even members of the _______. Example – If a Representative killed a man, he/she would face a trial just like everybody else.

Individual Rights Definition – Personal _________ and privileges that people are _______ with and cannot be taken away. The Bill of Rights was created to list all of these rights so people know when the governments tries to take them away.