1. Functions of the Senate, Functions of the Legislative Branch
SS.7.C.3.3: Illustrate the structure and function (three branches of government established in Articles I, II, and III with corresponding powers) of government in the United States as established in the Constitution.
Essential Question:
What is the structure and function of each branch of the United States government?

2. Bell Ringer – 3 minutes
1. Which part of the U.S. Constitution outlines legislative power?
First Amendment
Bill of Rights
Preamble
Article I
2. Which is an “enumerated” power of Congress?
The power to tax imports
The power to declare war
The power to issue hunting licenses
The power to operate public school districts
Answers: 1 is D, 2 is B

3. Hook Choose one short video: SchoolHouse Rock: Three Ring Circus
Three Branches Rap-Smart Songs
Branches of Government
The Three Branches of Government Song
Videos are about 3 minutes each. Choose one you have not previously shown.

4. United States Constitution
“I Do”
United States Constitution
The Three Branches
ARTICLE I
Legislative Branch
MAKE LAWS
ARTICLE III
Judicial Branch
INTERPRET LAWS
ARTICLE II
Executive Branch
ENFORCE LAWS
House of
Representatives
Senate
President
Supreme Court
QUALIFICATIONS 30 years old, citizen for 9 years, they must live in the state they represent
QUALIFICATIONS 25 years old, citizen for 7 years, must live in the state they represent
Speaker of the House
QUALIFICATIONS good behavior
QUALIFICATIONS natural born citizen, 35 years old and lives in the U.S. for at least 14 years
POWERS & FUNCTIONS
The Supreme Courts holds the power of original jurisdiction and appellate jurisdiction.
The federal courts will decide arguments over how to interpret the Constitution, all laws passed by Congress, arguments involving states, and in agreements with other nations.
POWERS & FUNCTIONS SPECIFIC TO THE SENATE
Impeachment trial & decide whether or not to remove from office; approve treaties for ratification
POWERS & FUNCTIONS
The President is Commander in Chief, Chief Executive, and Chief Diplomat. He has the power to appoint positions, grant pardons and make treaties.
The President gives the State of the Union and can convene Congress in special circumstances
Vice President is president of the Senate and votes in order to break a tie
POWERS & FUNCTIONS SPECIFIC TO THE HOUSE
Power of impeachment,
Bills start here involving taxes
Check for Understanding by having students compare and contrast the three branches. Highlight separation of powers and review checks and balances between the branches.
POWERS & FUNCTIONS OF BOTH HOUSES
Have the power to change laws in order to protect voters
Each house can judge elections, create their own rules to manage themselves, must have a majority present in order to conduct business and keep a journal of their activities
Determine naturalization laws
Congress has the power to coin money, create the postal service, army, navy and lower federal courts, and to declare war.

5. “We Do”
Students can work with a partner. Have students use the freedom documents and highlight/underline the answers in the booklet for added engagement.
Answers-
House: B, E, I, K
Senate: A, C, G, J
Both: D, F, H

6. Bell Ringer Check for Understanding
1. Which part of the U.S. Constitution outlines legislative power?
First Amendment
Bill of Rights
Preamble
Article I
2. Which is an “enumerated” power of Congress?
The power to tax imports
The power to declare war
The power to issue hunting licenses
The power to operate public school districts
Answers: 1 is D, 2 is B

7. “You Do” – Let’s Practice!
Answers: 1 is A, 2 is B, 3 is A

8. Exit Slip Answer the following in your interactive journal:
What is the structure and function of each branch of the United States government?