Splash Screen.

Splash Screen

Click on a hyperlink to view the corresponding slides.
Chapter Introduction Section 1 How Congress Is Organized Section 2 The Powers of Congress Section 3 Representing the People Section 4 How a Bill Becomes a Law Review to Learn Chapter Assessment Click on a hyperlink to view the corresponding slides. Contents

Chapter Overview In Chapter 6 you will learn about the United States Congress. Section 1 describes the roles of party leaders and committees in Congress. Section 2 explains the powers Congress uses to reach its goals. Section 3 analyzes the duties of congressional staffs and agencies. Section 4 examines how a bill becomes a law. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Intro 1

Chapter Objectives After studying this chapter, you will be able to:
Explain how Congress works. Describe the powers of Congress. Examine the work of those employed by Congress. Describe how a bill becomes a law. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Intro 2

Click the Speaker button to replay the audio.
Intro 3

Click the mouse button to return to the Contents slide.
End of Intro

Guide to Reading Main Idea Key Terms
In Congress, members of each party select their own leaders and work mainly in committees to carry out their duties. Key Terms bicameral majority party minority party standing committee seniority census constituent gerrymander Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-1

Guide to Reading Reading Strategy Read to Learn
Comparing and Contrasting Information Create a chart similar to the one on page 138 of your textbook. As you read, compare the House of Representatives to the Senate. Read to Learn How is Congress organized? What role do committees play in Congress? Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-2

Senator Jon Kyl Click the Speaker button to replay the audio. Section 1-3

Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer.
Terms of Congress The Framers of the U.S. Constitution intended the legislative branch to be the most powerful branch. Each term starts January 3 of odd-numbered years and lasts two years. Each term has two sessions. Congress holds special sessions in times of crisis. A joint session occurs when both houses meet together, such as for the president’s State of the Union address. (page 138) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 1-4

Terms of Congress (cont.) How are different terms of Congress identified? Each “new” Congress is given a number to identify its two-year term. For example, the first Congress met in 1789, and the 109th Congress began meeting in 2005. (page 138) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 1-5

A Bicameral Legislature
The Great Compromise established Congress as a two-part, or bicameral, body. The House of Representatives has 435 voting members, allotted to the states by population. After each census, or population count taken by the Census Bureau, Congress adjusts the number of representatives given to each state. (pages 139–140) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-6

A Bicameral Legislature (cont.)
States are divided into districts, with one representative elected from each district. The states draw districts to include roughly the same number of constituents, or people represented. Some abuse the process by drawing a gerrymander, or oddly shaped district designed to increase the voting strength of a particular group. (pages 139–140) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-7

A Bicameral Legislature (cont.)
House members focus on the concerns of their district. The Senate has 100 members–two from each state. Senators represent their entire states. They serve six-year terms. Elections are staggered to ensure some stability. (pages 139–140) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-8

A Bicameral Legislature (cont.) Members of the House of Representatives focus on the concerns of their district, rather than on the concerns of their state as a whole. Is this what the Framers of the Constitution intended? Explain. Yes. In allotting House seats by population, the Framers designed Congress so that House members would be closer to the people than would members of the Senate. (pages 139–140) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 1-9

Congressional Leaders
In both houses, the political party to which more than half the members belong is the majority party. The other party is the minority party. Party members choose their leaders at the beginning of each term. (pages 140–142) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-10

Congressional Leaders (cont.)
The Speaker of the House is the most powerful leader in the House of Representatives. The Speaker always belongs to the majority party. The Speaker is in charge of floor debates and influences most House business. If something happened to the president and vice president, the Speaker would become president. (pages 140–142) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-11

The leader of the Senate is technically the vice president, who rarely attends and votes only in case of a tie. The person who actually acts as chairperson is the president pro tempore. The majority party fills this mostly ceremonial position. (pages 140–142) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-12

Powerful floor leaders try to make sure the laws Congress passes are in the best interest of their own party. They speak for their parties on the issues and try to sway votes. Party “whips” help by keeping track of where their party members stand on issues and rounding them up for key votes. (pages 140–142) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-13

Congressional Leaders (cont.) How does the Speaker of the House exercise influence? Speakers today often influence through persuasion. They talk with many members of Congress, listen to requests for favors, and in return expect the representatives to support important issues. (pages 140–142) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 1-14

Committees: Little Legislatures
The detailed work of lawmaking is done in committees. Each house has permanent standing committees that continue their work from session to session. Most are divided into smaller subcommittees that deal with specialized issues. Both houses also have select committees that are created to do a special job for a limited period. (pages 142–144) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-15

Committees: Little Legislatures (cont.)
They disband after completing their task. Joint committees include members of both houses. Temporary conference committees help the House and Senate agree on the details of a proposed law. (pages 142–144) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-16

Members of Congress try to get assigned to important committees that affect the people who elected them. Party leaders make committee assignments based on members’ preferences, expertise, party loyalty, and seniority, or years of service. (pages 142–144) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-17

Members with the most seniority usually get the preferred committee spots. The most senior members from the majority party traditionally become chairpersons. Chairpersons of standing committees are the most powerful members of Congress. (pages 142–144) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-18

What are the main arguments for and against the use of the seniority system in choosing committee members? Some people think the seniority system prevents fights over committee jobs and ensures that chairpersons will have experience. Others complain that talented people may be overlooked in favor of those who simply have been around for a while. (pages 142–144) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 1-19

Checking for Understanding Define Match the terms on the right with their definitions on the left. __ 1. a legislature consisting of two parts, or houses __ 2. in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, the political party to which fewer than half the members belong __ 3. a person from a legislator's district __ 4. years of service, which is used as a consideration for assigning committee members __ 5. in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, the political party to which more than half the members belong A A. bicameral B. constituent C. majority party D. minority party E. seniority D B E C Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 1-20

Checking for Understanding (cont.) Describe How many members does the Senate have? How does the U.S. Constitution provide for stability and continuity in the Senate? The Senate has 100 members. Every two years, one-third of the senators must run for reelection, allowing for two-thirds of the Senate to consist of experienced members. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 1-21

Checking for Understanding (cont.) Explain Why is so much of the business of Congress conducted in committees? How are senators and representatives assigned to committees? There are too many bills for the entire Congress to handle. Members are assigned to a committee based on preference, loyalty, expertise, and seniority. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 1-22

Critical Thinking Drawing Conclusions Do you think that the seniority system in Congress is an effective way to select leaders and assign committee members? Why or why not? Answers will vary. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 1-23

Analyzing Visuals Interpret Review the maps on pages 140–141 of your textbook. How many representatives did New Jersey have in 1790? In 1950? In 2000? What does this tell you about how New Jersey’s population has changed? New Jersey had 5 representatives in 1790, 14 in 1950, and 13 in New Jersey’s population grew between 1790 and 1950, but decreased a little between 1950 and 2000. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 1-24

Close Do you think the current method of apportionment is fair to all U.S. citizens? Section 1-25

End of Section 1

While the Constitution limits the powers of Congress, it also gives Congress the powers it needs to conduct its business and accomplish its goals. Key Terms expressed powers writ of habeas corpus bill of attainder ex post facto law implied powers elastic clause impeach Section 2-1

Comparing Information As you read, complete a chart similar to the one on page 146 of your textbook to compare Congress’s legislative powers to its nonlegislative powers. Read to Learn What powers did the Constitution give to Congress? What powers did the Constitution deny to Congress? Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-2

Supporting Clinton Click the Speaker button to replay the audio. Section 2-3

Legislative Powers Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution lists Congress’s specific or expressed powers. Clause 18 gives Congress implied powers (not stated explicitly) to do whatever is “necessary and proper” to carry out the expressed powers. Clause 18 is often called the elastic clause because it allows Congress to stretch its powers to meet new needs. (pages 146–147) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-4

Legislative Powers (cont.)
Congress has the power to collect taxes to pay for government and its services. All tax bills must start in the House of Representatives and be approved by the Senate. Congress spends money by means of a two-step process. Authorization bills create projects and set an amount to be spent on them. (pages 146–147) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-5

Appropriations bills actually provide the money for each program. Article I, Section 8, Clause 3, the “commerce clause,” gives Congress the power to regulate foreign and interstate commerce. Laws dealing with air traffic, television, and air pollution are all based on this clause. (pages 146–147) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-6

Only Congress can declare war. Congress has the power to create, maintain, and oversee an army and navy. The Senate must approve all treaties with other countries. (pages 146–147) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-7

Legislative Powers (cont.) Why did the Founders give Congress broad powers? The Founders knew that they could not foresee every situation Congress might face. They included the “necessary and proper” clause to allow Congress to stretch its powers to meet new needs. (pages 146–147) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 2-8

Nonlegislative Powers
Congress has powers not related to making laws. It can propose constitutional amendments. It counts electoral votes in presidential elections. If no one receives a majority, the House picks the president and the Senate picks the vice president. If a president dies, resigns, or is too ill to serve, Congress settles the matter. (pages 148–149) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-9

Nonlegislative Powers (cont.)
Congress has the power to check other branches. The Senate can approve or reject the president’s nominations for jobs such as Supreme Court justice, federal judge, and ambassador. The House may impeach, or accuse officials of misconduct. If the majority of House members vote to impeach, the matter goes to the Senate. (pages 148–149) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-10

Nonlegislative Powers (cont.)
A two-thirds vote in the Senate is required to remove the person from office. Congress has taken on the role of overseeing government activities. Standing committees review how well the executive branch has put laws into practice. Congress conducts special investigations that may lead to criminal charges or new laws to deal with the problem. (pages 148–149) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-11

Nonlegislative Powers (cont.) If the House votes to impeach an official, is that person removed from office? Not necessarily. After the House votes to impeach, the Senate acts as jury. A two-thirds vote in the Senate is required to convict and remove the person from office. (pages 148–149) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 2-12

Limits on Power The Constitution imposes limits on Congress.
Congress may not pass laws that violate the Bill of Rights. Article I says that Congress may not favor one state over another, tax interstate commerce, or tax exports. (page 150) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-13

Limits on Power (cont.) Congress cannot suspend the writ of habeas corpus. This is a court order that requires police to explain why they are holding a suspect. Congress may not pass bills of attainder, or laws that punish a person without a jury trial. Congress may not pass ex post facto laws that make an act a crime after the act has been committed. (page 150) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-14

Limits on Power (cont.) Congress may not interfere with powers reserved for the states. Other branches can check the power of Congress. The Supreme Court may declare laws unconstitutional. The president can veto bills. (page 150) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 2-15

Limits on Power (cont.) Does a president’s veto kill a bill, or can the bill become law anyway? The bill can still become law if Congress overrides the veto with a two-thirds vote. (page 150) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 2-16

Checking for Understanding Define Match the terms on the right with their definitions on the left. __ 1. a court order that requires police to bring a prisoner to court to explain why they are holding the person __ 2. powers of Congress that are specifically listed in the Constitution __ 3. to accuse government officials of misconduct in office __ 4. a law that punishes a person accused of a crime without trial or fair hearing in court __ 5. a law that would allow a person to be punished for an action that was not against the law when it was committed C A. expressed powers B. impeach C. writ of habeas corpus D. bill of attainder E. ex post facto law A B D E Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 2-17

Checking for Understanding (cont.) Compare What do writs of habeas corpus, bills of attainder, and ex post facto laws have in common? All are powers denied to Congress. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 2-18

Checking for Understanding (cont.) Contrast What is the difference between authorization bills and appropriation bills? Where do bills to spend money begin? Authorization bills create projects and establish how much money can be spent on them; appropriations bills provide the money for the projects. All bills to spend money begin in the House. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 2-19

Critical Thinking Making Predictions What problems might have arisen in our government if the elastic clause had not been included in the Constitution? Possible answer: Congress would have had difficulty meeting needs as times changed. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 2-20

Analyzing Visuals Interpret Reexamine the powers of Congress on page 149 of your textbook. What implied power is based on Congress’s power to regulate foreign and interstate commerce? The power to prohibit discrimination in public places is based on Congress’s power to regulate foreign and interstate commerce. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 2-21

Close Which powers of Congress do you think have the greatest impact on Americans’ lives today? Why? Section 2-22

End of Section 2

The work of Congress is so complex that in addition to elected representatives, Congress employs many staffers who help with the workload. Key Terms franking privilege lobbyist casework pork-barrel project Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-1

Analyzing Information On a web diagram like the one on page 151 of your textbook, write as many examples of congressional support personnel as you can. Read to Learn What benefits do members of Congress enjoy? What are the duties of congressional support staff members? Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-2

The U.S. Capitol in the 1800s Click the Speaker button to replay the audio. Section 3-3

Requirements and Benefits of Congress
Both senators and members of the House must live in the state they represent. House members usually live in their districts, but are not required to do so. Senators must be at least 30 years old; House members, 25. Senators must have been citizens for at least nine years; House members, seven years. (pages 151–152) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-4

Requirements and Benefits of Congress (cont.)
Most members of Congress have college degrees. Nearly half are lawyers. Members receive a salary of $150,000, free office space, and trips to their home states. They have the franking privilege–they may send job-related mail for free. (pages 151–152) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-5

Requirements and Benefits of Congress (cont.)
The Constitution grants senators and representatives immunity, or legal protection, in some situations. They may not break the law, though. (pages 151–152) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-6

Requirements and Benefits of Congress (cont.) What are some benefits that members of Congress enjoy? Along with their $150,000 salary, members of Congress receive free office space, parking, and trips to their home states. They have franking privileges and immunity in some situations. They have low-cost life insurance and use of a gymnasium, special restaurants, and a medical clinic. (pages 151–152) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 3-7

Congressional Staff: Behind-the-Scenes Helpers
The personal staff run the offices. They gather information on issues, arrange meetings, and write speeches. They handle requests from voters. They deal with reporters and lobbyists–people hired by private groups to influence government decision makers. The staff works for the member’s reelection on their own time. (pages 152–153) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-8

Congressional Staff: Behind-the-Scenes Helpers (cont.)
Members of Congress hire students from their home states or districts to serve as interns and pages. Interns help with research and office duties. Pages deliver messages and run errands. Committee staffs generally have expert knowledge about special topics, such as taxes or defense. (pages 152–153) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-9

The Library of Congress provides information for members of Congress and their staffs. The Library’s Congressional Research Service looks up facts and spells out arguments for and against bills. The General Accounting Office reviews spending activities of federal agencies, studies programs, and recommends ways to spend taxpayers’ dollars wisely. (pages 152–153) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-10

The Congressional Budget Office provides information and analyses to help Congress create a budget. It estimates costs and economic effects of programs. (pages 152–153) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-11

Congressional Staff: Behind-the-Scenes Helpers (cont.) How could you benefit from serving as a congressional intern or page? This experience gives young people a firsthand look at the political process. (pages 152–153) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 3-12

Members of Congress at Work
Congressional sessions begin each January 3. In representing the people who elected them, members of Congress carry out three major jobs. Congress members make laws. They introduce bills, work on committees, listen to input for and against bills, and then vote. (pages 153–155) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-13

Members of Congress at Work (cont.)
Congress members do casework–they troubleshoot for people from their home district or state who request help in dealing with the federal government. Congress members protect the interests of their state or district. For example, a senator from a state with strong timber industries might seek to influence logging policies. (pages 153–155) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-14

Members of Congress at Work (cont.)
Members also work to gain a share of national government spending for their constituents. A government contract can bring a lot of money to local businesses and jobs for local people. Government projects and grants that primarily benefit the home district or state are called pork-barrel projects. (pages 153–155) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 3-15

Members of Congress at Work (cont.) What kinds of casework problems do congressional staffs solve? Most problems constituents have involve the government bureaucracy. The staffs handle problems such as a Social Security check that doesn’t arrive or a veteran’s claim that is held up. (pages 153–155) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 3-16

Checking for Understanding Define Match the terms on the right with their definitions on the left. __ 1. representatives of interest groups who contact lawmakers or other government officials directly to influence their policy making __ 2. government projects and grants that primarily benefit the home district or state __ 3. the work that a lawmaker does to help constituents with a problem __ 4. the right of senators and representatives to send job-related mail without paying postage B A. franking privilege B. lobbyist C. casework D. pork-barrel projects D C A Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 3-17

Checking for Understanding (cont.) Contrast Explain the difference between a congressional committee staff member and a member of the personal staff of a representative or senator. Committee staff members work for the committee, while personal staffers work for a member of Congress. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 3-18

Checking for Understanding (cont.) Summarize Describe the role of the General Accounting Office (GAO). What does the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) do? The GAO reviews spending activities of federal agencies, studies federal programs, and recommends ways to improve government’s financial performance. The CBO provides information for budgetary decisions. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 3-19

Critical Thinking Drawing Conclusions Why do you think congressional committees need permanent, full-time staff members? Answers will vary. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 3-20

Analyzing Visuals Conclude Reexamine the photograph of representative Mary Bono taking the oath of office on page 152 of your textbook. Why do you think the Speaker administers the oath? The Speaker administers the oath because the Speaker is the most powerful leader in the House. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 3-21

Close Why are personal staffs needed for members of Congress?
Section 3-22

End of Section 3

Several complex steps are involved in taking an idea and turning it into a law. Key Terms joint resolution voice vote roll-call vote veto pocket veto special-interest group rider filibuster cloture Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-1

Sequencing Information As you read, create a graphic organizer similar to the one on page 157 of your textbook. In each box write a step in the lawmaking process, showing how an idea becomes a law. Add as many boxes as necessary. Read to Learn How are bills introduced and how do they work their way through Congress? What actions can a president take once a bill has been passed by Congress? Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-2

Members of Congress honor the memory of victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks. Click the Speaker button to replay the audio. Section 4-3

Types of Bills Of the more than 10,000 bills introduced each congressional term, only several hundred become law. Bills fall into two categories. Private bills concern individual people or places. Public bills apply to the entire nation and involve general matters like taxation, civil rights, or terrorism. (pages 157–158) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-4

Types of Bills (cont.) Congress also considers different kinds of resolutions, or formal statements expressing lawmakers’ opinions or decisions. Many resolutions do not have the force of law. Joint resolutions are passed by both houses of Congress and do become law if signed by the president. (pages 157–158) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-5

Types of Bills (cont.) Describe some ways in which Congress might use joint resolutions. Congress uses joint resolutions to propose constitutional amendments, to designate money for a special purpose, and to correct errors in bills already passed. (pages 157–158) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 4-6

From Bill to Law Ideas for bills come from members of Congress, citizens, and the White House. Other bills are suggested by special-interest groups, or organizations of people with some common interest who try to influence government decisions. Only senators and representatives may introduce bills in Congress. Every bill is given a title and number, and is then sent to an appropriate standing committee. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-7

From Bill to Law (cont.) The committee chairperson decides which bills get ignored and which get studied. Those that merit attention are often researched by a subcommittee. Experts and citizens may voice opinions about a bill in public hearings or written statements. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-8

From Bill to Law (cont.) Standing committees can:
(1) pass the bill without change, (2) mark changes and suggest that the bill be passed, (3) replace the bill with an alternative, (4) pigeonhole the bill (ignore it and let it die), or (5) kill the bill by majority vote. When a committee is against a bill, it almost never becomes law. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-9

From Bill to Law (cont.) Bills approved in committee are put on the schedules to be considered by the full House or Senate. The Senate usually takes up bills in the order listed. In the House, the Rules Committee can give priority to some bills and not let others get to the floor. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-10

From Bill to Law (cont.) When bills reach the floor, members debate the pros and cons. The House accepts only relevant amendments. The Senate allows riders–completely unrelated amendments–to be tacked onto the bill. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-11

From Bill to Law (cont.) The House Rules Committee puts time limits on the discussion. Senators may speak as long as they like and need not even address the topic at hand. Sometimes they filibuster, or talk a bill to death. A three-fifths vote for cloture can end a filibuster. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-12

From Bill to Law (cont.) In a simple voice vote, those in favor say “Yea” and those against say “No.” In a standing vote, those in favor stand to be counted, and then those against stand. The House uses a computerized voting system that records each representative’s vote. Senators voice their votes in turn as an official records them in a roll-call vote. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-13

From Bill to Law (cont.) A simple majority of members present passes a bill. After passing one house, the bill then goes to the other. If either house rejects the bill, it dies. Both houses must pass an identical bill. If either changes the bill it receives from the other house, a conference committee is formed to work out the differences. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-14

From Bill to Law (cont.) The House and Senate must then either accept the revised bill as is or completely reject it. After a bill passes both houses, it goes to the president. The president may sign it into law, veto (or refuse to sign) it, or do nothing for 10 days. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-15

From Bill to Law (cont.) Then if Congress is in session, the bill becomes law without the president’s signature. If Congress had adjourned, the bill dies. Killing a bill this way is called a pocket veto. Congress can override a veto with a two-thirds vote of each house. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Section 4-16

From Bill to Law (cont.) How does a filibuster work? A filibuster takes advantage of the Senate’s custom of allowing members to speak as long as they like on whatever topics they like. In a filibuster, one member can hold the floor for hour after hour, delaying a vote until the bill’s sponsor gives up and withdraws the measure. (pages 158–161) Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 4-17

Checking for Understanding Define Match the terms on the right with their definitions on the left. __ 1. president’s power to kill a bill, if Congress is not in session, by not signing it for 10 days __ 2. a completely unrelated amendment tacked on to a bill __ 3. a procedure used in the Senate to limit debate on a bill __ 4. an organization of people with some common interest who try to influence government decisions __ 5. a voting method in the Senate in which members voice their votes in turn E A. special- interest group B. rider C. cloture D. roll-call vote E. pocket veto B C A D Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 4-18

Checking for Understanding (cont.) Contrast What is the difference between public and private bills? What are resolutions? The difference is that public bills apply to the entire nation and private bills concern individual people or places. Resolutions are formal statements expressing lawmakers’ opinions or decisions. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 4-19

Checking for Understanding (cont.) Summarize Describe what can happen to a bill once it passes Congress and reaches the president’s desk. The president can sign the bill into law, veto it, or do nothing. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 4-20

Critical Thinking Making Inferences Why do you think members of the House of Representatives consider assignment to the Rules Committee an important appointment? The Rules Committee can give priority to a bill and speed its passage or kill a bill by preventing it from getting to the floor. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 4-21

Analyzing Visuals Conclude Review the steps that a bill must go through to become a law on page 160 of your textbook. What do you think is the step in which the bill is most closely examined by Congress? The bill is most closely examined during the period of committee action. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Section 4-22

Close Do you think democracy would be helped or hindered if passing laws were an easier process? Explain. Section 4-23

End of Section 4

Section 1: How Congress Is Organized
Congress is organized into two bodies. Leadership powers include committee selection, bill monitoring, and leading sessions. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Review to Learn 1

Section 2: The Powers of Congress
Congress has broad powers dealing with defense, finance, and lawmaking. Congressional support staffs research bills, deal with public inquiries, and arrange appointments. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Review to Learn 2

Section 3: Representing the People
Members of Congress receive a salary, plus benefits. The support staff of Congress helps with the workload. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. Review to Learn 3

Section 4: How a Bill Becomes a Law
Bills are introduced in either the House or the Senate, travel through a committee approval process, and then are voted on. Review to Learn 4

End of Review to Learn

Reviewing Key Terms Define Match the terms on the right with their definitions on the left. __ 1. president’s power to kill a bill, if Congress is not in session, by not signing it for 10 days __ 2. government projects and grants that benefit the home district or state of a member of Congress __ 3. system that gives most desirable committee assignments to members of Congress who have served the longest F A. constituents B. elastic clause C. filibuster D. gerrymander E. lobbyist F. pocket veto G. pork-barrel projects H. seniority I. standing committee J. writ of habeas corpus G H Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 1

Reviewing Key Terms (cont.) Define Match the terms on the right with their definitions on the left. __ 4. an oddly-shaped district designed to increase the voting strength of a particular group __ 5. the part of the Constitution that gives Congress the authority to do whatever is necessary and proper to carry out its expressed powers __ 6. people from a legislative district D A. constituents B. elastic clause C. filibuster D. gerrymander E. lobbyist F. pocket veto G. pork-barrel project H. seniority I. standing committee J. writ of habeas corpus B A Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 2

Reviewing Key Terms (cont.) Define Match the terms on the right with their definitions on the left. __ 7. permanent committee of Congress that focuses on a particular topic __ 8. court order guaranteeing a person who is arrested the right to appear before a judge in a court of law __ 9. tactic for defeating a bill in the Senate by talking until the bill’s sponsor withdraws it __ 10. person who tries to persuade government officials to support a particular group or position I A. constituents B. elastic clause C. filibuster D. gerrymander E. lobbyist F. pocket veto G. pork-barrel project H. seniority I. standing committee J. writ of habeas corpus J C E Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 3

Reviewing Main Ideas Between the Speaker of the House and the president pro tempore of the Senate, which position has more power? Explain. The Speaker has more power. The Speaker controls floor debates and influences most House business. The president pro tempore of the Senate acts as the chair in the absence of the vice president, and the position is mostly ceremonial. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 4

Reviewing Main Ideas (cont.) Describe two nonlegislative powers of Congress. Possible answers: Congress can propose constitutional amendments, count electoral votes, select the president if no majority exists, impeach, approve or reject appointments, and oversee and investigate government activities. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 5

Reviewing Main Ideas (cont.) What are the three major jobs of Congress? The three major jobs of Congress are lawmaking, casework, and helping members’ districts or states. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 6

Reviewing Main Ideas (cont.) What are the qualifications for members of the House of Representatives and the Senate? To be a member of the House of Representatives you must be 25 years of age, a resident of a state, and a U.S. citizen for at least seven years. A member of the Senate must be 30 years old, a resident of a state, and a U.S. citizen for at least nine years. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 7

Reviewing Main Ideas (cont.) What four things can happen after a bill has been approved by both houses of Congress and goes to the president? The president can sign the bill into law, veto the bill, or refuse to sign the bill. If Congress is in session, the bill becomes a law after 10 days; if Congress is not in session the bill dies after 10 days (pocket veto). Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 8

Critical Thinking Analyzing Information What is the relationship between the census and gerrymandering? After a census, when states lose or gain members to Congress, politicians often gerrymander in order to increase the voting strength of their party. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 9

Analyzing Visuals Study the map on pages 140–141 of your textbook. It shows changes in the House of Representatives following the 2000 census. Which states gained representatives? Which states lost representatives? Did any particular region of the country gain or lose seats? Explain. The states that gained: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina, and Texas. The states that lost: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The Midwest lost seats. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 10

Directions: Choose the best answer to the following question. Which of the following is a cause that could prevent a bill from becoming a law in Congress? F A bill is given a title and a number. G A bill is put on the calendar. H A senator filibusters a bill. J The Senate votes for cloture. Test-Taking Tip Read the question carefully. It is asking you to mark the choice that leads to the rejection of a bill. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 11

Why do few bills actually become laws? The process provides many opportunities for a bill to be killed. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Chapter Assessment 12

End of Chapter Assessment
Click the mouse button to return to the Contents slide. End of Chapter Assessment

History The House of Representatives was open to the public from the beginning in 1789, but the Senate met in secret sessions for its first few years. As a result of public pressure, however, the Senate opened a visitors’ gallery in 1795. CC-1

Time Political Cartoon 1
What comment was Stuart making about the shape of the voting district that Governor Gerry created? Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Time Political Cartoon 1

Time Political Cartoon 2
Stuart’s drawing emphasizes the odd and unnatural shape of the new district, suggesting that Gerry drew the district’s boundaries for political reasons rather than on the basis of geography. Time Political Cartoon 2

Because the House has so many members, House whips appoint “deputy whips” to help them. Democrats in the House also choose “zone whips”–members from different regions of the country who help leaders disseminate information. Did You Know 1

1797 to During these years, the House of Representatives has impeached 16 federal officials. These include 2 presidents, a cabinet member, a senator, a justice of the Supreme Court, and 11 federal judges. When/W/W/W 2

Filibuster The term filibuster originally meant pirate
Filibuster The term filibuster originally meant pirate. Some members of Congress believed that using such delaying tactics to block the will of the majority was like piracy. You Don’t Say 4-1

If a lawmaker must be absent during a vote, he or she sometimes will try to “pair off” with an opposition colleague who will also be absent. The “paired” votes thus cancel out each other and do not affect the result. Did You Know 4

Making Comparisons Why Learn This Skill? How do you decide which pair of jeans to buy? How will you decide which college to attend or which candidates to vote for in an election? Making comparisons is a part of decision making. It also helps you understand and remember different types of information. Click the Speaker button to replay the audio. CT Skillbuilder 1

Making Comparisons Learning the Skill
To make comparisons, follow these steps: Decide which subjects or concepts you will compare. Decide which characteristics of the subjects you will compare. Identify similarities and differences in the characteristics. Look for relationships and patterns among the items you have analyzed. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the information. CT Skillbuilder 2

Making Comparisons Practicing the Skill
Read the passages on page 145 of your textbook. Then answer the questions on the following slides. CT Skillbuilder 3

Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answers.
Making Comparisons 1. How is the British Parliament like the Congress of the United States? Parliament has two houses like Congress; the House of Commons proposes and passes legislation, and members are elected by British voters. 2. What differences are there between the British and American heads of state? In Britain, the head of state is a hereditary king or queen who exercises no actual power; the prime minister is the chief Parliament officer. In America the president is elected as head of state and the head of government. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answers. CT Skillbuilder 4

Making Comparisons 3. How does the British constitution differ from the U.S. Constitution? Legal traditions make up the unwritten constitution in Britain. The United States Constitution is written. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. CT Skillbuilder 5

Click on a hyperlink to view the corresponding slides.
Map Congressional Apportionment, 2000 Charts Standing Committees Powers of Congress Profile of the 109th Congress How a Bill Becomes a Law Click on a hyperlink to view the corresponding slides. Maps/Charts Contents

Maps/Charts 1

Maps/Charts 2

Maps/Charts 3

Maps/Charts 4

Maps/Charts 5

Daily Focus Skills Transparency 1
Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Daily Focus Skills Transparency 1

States with more people receive more seats in the House; states with fewer people receive fewer seats. Click the mouse button or press the Space Bar to display the answer. Daily Focus Skills Transparency 2

To navigate within this Presentation Plus! product:
Click the Forward button to go to the next slide. Click the Previous button to return to the previous slide. Click the Section Back button to return to the beginning of the section you are in. If you are viewing a feature, this button returns you to the main presentation. Click the Home button to return to the Chapter Menu. Click the Help button to access this screen. Click the Speaker button to listen to available audio. Click the Speaker Off button to stop any playing audio. Click the Exit button or press the Escape key [Esc] to end the chapter slide show. Presentation Plus! features such as the Reference Atlas, History Online, and others are located in the left margin of most screens. Click on any of these buttons to access a specific feature. HELP

End of Custom Shows WARNING! Do Not Remove
This slide is intentionally blank and is set to auto-advance to end custom shows and return to the main presentation. End of Custom Shows

End of Slide Show

Splash Screen.

Similar presentations

Presentation on theme: "Splash Screen."— Presentation transcript:

Similar presentations

About project

Feedback

Log in

Auth with social network:

Splash Screen.

Similar presentations

Presentation on theme: "Splash Screen."— Presentation transcript:

Similar presentations

About project

Feedback