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2. Introduction U.S. Constitution divides powers among three branches “Separation of Powers” Why was this done?

3. Separation of Powers Limits government powers Prevents any one branch from having too much power

4. Three Branches of Government  Legislative Branch  Executive Branch  Judicial Branch What does each branch do?

5. Three Branches of Government Legislative Branch – makes the nation’s laws Executive Branch – carries out the laws Judicial Branch – interprets the laws

6. 3 Branches of Government Executive Branch President & Vice President Advisors & Appointees Legislative Branch Congress Senate House of Representatives Judicial Branch Supreme Court Federal Court System

7. Legislative Branch Article 1 of the Constitution Congress – law-making branch Two houses –Senate –House of Representatives

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9. Executive Branch Article 2 of the Constitution Executes, or carries out, nation’s laws President, Vice President, appointees & advisors

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11. Judicial Branch Article 3 of the Constitution U.S. Supreme Court & federal court system 1.Interprets laws 2.Punishes law-breakers 3.Determines if laws are constitutional

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13. Review 1.What are the three branches of government? 2.What are the primary responsibilities of each? 3.Why does the U.S. Constitution provide for a separation of powers?

14. Photo courtesy of www.usconstitution.com