1. The United States Constitution Open your books to page 84

2. The Preamble : Sets forth the purpose of the document. What does this mean? Try putting it into your own words

3. Article 1: The Legislature They Make the Laws What are some of the powers that they hold? 1. Propose new taxes 2. Propose new laws 3. Power to declare war Checks and balances: *Impeach a President *Approve supreme court nominations *2/3 congress can override President’s veto

4. Article 2: The Executive Branch He carries out the laws What are some of the powers that he holds? 1. Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. 2. Negotiates Treaties 3. Nominate Ambassadors Checks and balances: *Veto bills from congress *Nominate federal judges *Grant Presidential pardons

5. Article 3: The Judicial Branch They interpret the laws What are some of the powers that they hold? 1. Interprets the Constitution in specific court cases. 2. Tries people accused of breaking federal laws. 3. Hears cases involving states. Checks and balances: *Declare executive actions unlawful or unconstitutional. *Declare acts of Congress or laws unconstitutional

6. The Bill of Rights Open your textbooks to page 70 and read about why the U.S. adopted the Bill of Rights. * They are the first 10 amendments to the Constitution. * States would not ratify the Constitution unless it guaranteed the individual rights of the people somewhere in it.

7. A Living Document? Why is the United States Constitution considered a “living” document? Because it grows and changes through time as circumstances warrant. Look at the amendments to the Constitution started on page 98 of your textbook. How was the Constitution allowed to change to fit growing understandings and different needs? (Hint: Look at the 18 th & 21 st amendments)