1. The Structure of our Constitution Chapter 3 Section 3

2.  How many branches of govt do we have?  What are their duties?  How many principles of govt? Bellringer

3.  The Constitution is divided into three parts:  The Preamble  The Articles  The Amendments The Sections of the Consitution

4.  An introduction that states the goals and purposes of the govt.  Establishes that power from the govt comes from the people  States 6 purposes of govt Preamble

5.  Creates a 2 house Legislative branch  Outlines the duties of the Congress in making laws ARTICLE 1

6.  Provides for the Executive branch  President carries out and enforces the lawsmade in Congress  Explains how leaders are elected to office and how they can be removed Article 2

7.  Establishes the judicial branch  Judicial branch interprets laws  Creates a court system and lists its powers Article 3

8.  Explains relationship between national and state governments  Tells how the Constitution can be changed  Declares the Constitution as the “Supreme law of the land. Articles 4-7

9.  The Constitution can be changed or amended  It’s a very difficult process! GOOD LUCK WITH THAT!  There are currently 27 amendments that have been ratified  Amendments take care of our freedoms Amending the Constitution

10.  Proposal by congressional action  2/3 of the Senate must vote on it  Ratification by ¾ of 50 state legislatures Process to Amend the Constitution

11.  Allows Congress to exercise implied powers  Implied powers are powers not specifically listed in the Constitution Necessary and Proper Clause

12.  The Supreme Court interprets the Constitution.  All cases heard by the Supreme Court deal with constitutional rights Court Decisions

13.  House of Representatives is able to impeach or accuse federal officials  Senate determines the person’s guilt or innocence. Legislative and Presidential Actions