1. The Constitution – Structure and Principles Daily Cornell’s Note and Activity October 8 th, 2010

2. Background Information  The Founders created the Constitution more than 200 years ago.  Separation of powers  Legislative, executive, and judicial  REPUBLIC – power is held by voting citizens through their elected representatives  Provides citizens with information about their rights and about what they may reasonably expect of their government.  The Success of this system DEPENDS on an INFORMED, participating citizenry  An understanding of the Constitution is KEY to understanding the structure and daily function of American government.

3. Structure  Simple and brief, 7000 words  Divided into THREE parts – preamble, articles, and amendments  Preamble – introduction, states why the Constitution was written  Articles (7) – cover general topics  Article I establishes the legislative branch  Article II – create an executive branch  Article III – establishes a Supreme Court with JURISDICTION, or specific authority  Article VI – contains the SUPREMACY CLAUSE, establishing that the Constitution, laws passed by Congress and the treaties of the United States shall be the “ Supreme Law of the Land.”  Amendments –or changes, 27 and counting ….

4. Principles 1 Popular sovereignty – rule by the people 2 Federalism – power is divided between the national and state government. 3 Separation of powers – each branch has its responsibilities. 4 Check and balances – each branch of government holds some control over the other two branches 1 VETOEING – president power to check the Congress, may be override by 2/3 vote of each house. 5 Judicial review – Courts have power to declare laws and action of Congress and the president unconstitutional 6 Limited government – the Constitution limits the powers of government by making explicit grants of authority.

5. Independent Practice  Read pages 63 – 67 and complete chapter 3 section 1 assessment.  Debrief

6. Close  The United States government is “government of laws, and not of men.” Explain  John Adams