1. The Preamble & Amendment Process
SOL 2C & D

2. The Preamble The opening paragraph of the U.S. Constitution
Expresses the reasons that the Constitution was written
Works the same way as an introductory paragraph to one of your essays

3. The Preamble Purposes of U.S. government
1. To form a more perfect union
2. To establish justice
3. To ensure domestic tranquility
4. To provide for the common defense
5. To promote the general welfar3
6. To secure the blessings of liberty

4. The Preamble
Starts “We the people…” to establish that the power of government comes from the people

5. Amendment Process Process is complex
Why do you think they make it so hard to change the constitution?
There are 27 amendments currently
Amendment process:
Proposal: action by congress or convention
Ratification (approval: by the states

6. Constitution of Virginia
Amendment process:
Proposal: action by General Assembly (legislative branch of VA) or convention
Ratification: by the people