Branches of Government Legislative Branch Executive Branch Judicial Branch VocabularyUS Symbols

The Legislative Branch has the power to make laws. It is made up of the US Congress which is broken into these two sections.

Each of the 50 states sends 2 people to the this section of congress, so there are a total of 100 members. This means that each state has equal representation.

Representation of this section of congress is based on the population, or number of people living in each state. There are a total of 435 members.

Each Congress lasts for this many years. When they are over, new Members of Congress are elected. We are currently in the 110th Congress.

The Legislative Branch’s primary duty is to write, debate, and pass bills, which are then passed on to this person for approval.

The executive branch of Government makes sure that the laws of the United States are obeyed. This person is the head of the executive branch of government.

When the President wants advice he asks this group of people. They are the President's closest and most trusted advisors. They include the Vice President and 15 other department heads.

This presidents secretary works with other countries.

This secretary ensures a healthy food supply and provides support for farmers.

This secretary works to prevent terrorist attacks within the United States, reduce America's vulnerability to terrorism, and minimize the damage from potential attacks and natural disasters.

The judicial branch of government is made up of the court system. Courts decide arguments about the meaning of laws, how they are applied, and whether they break the rules of the Constitution. Name the highest court in the land.

The Supreme Court is made up of this many Justices.

The Chief Justice is appointed by the President and must be approved by this group.

Once the Supreme Court makes a decision, it can only be changed by another Supreme Court decision or by amending (changing) this US document.

Justices have their jobs for this long, unless they resign, retire, or are impeached by the House and convicted by the Senate.

To change the wording or meaning of a motion, bill, constitution, etc. by formal procedure.

To cancel or postpone a decision, bill, etc.

Limits imposed on all branches of government by giving each the right to amend acts of the other branches.

A person who acts for or represents another or others.

A member of a state or nation who owes allegiance to its government and is entitled to its protection.

Cast in London, England in 1752, this bell rang when the Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence and has become the symbol of freedom in the United States. Questions? Click here

This seal reflects the beliefs and values that the Founding Fathers wanted to pass on to their descendents. Questions? Click here

Located in Washington, DC near the Capitol, this building has housed what Court since 1935? Questions? Click here

Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, DC, this building is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. It has been the official residence of all the presidents of the United States with the exception of George Washington. Questions? Click here

Built on a hill popularly called Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, this building has been the home of the House of Representatives and the Senate since Questions? Click here