1. Structure and Principles of the U.S. Constitution Chapter 3 Section 1

2. Structure The U.S. Constitution is divided into three parts: the preamble, seven divisions called articles, and the amendments. articles –The Preamble explains why the constitution was written and the purpose of government. –Article I establishes the legislative branch. Section 1 creates the Congress.

3. Section 1 –Article II creates an executive branch to carry out laws created by Congress. Its sections outline the detail of presidential powers, describe required presidential qualifications, and provide for a vice president. Structure (cont.)

4. Section 1 Section I establishes a Supreme Court to head the judicial branch. Section 2 outlines the jurisdiction, or authority, of the Supreme Court and other federal courts.jurisdiction Section 3 defines treason. Structure (cont.) –Article III creates a judicial branch.

5. –Article IV explains the relationship of the states to one another and to the national government. Section 1 –Article V spells out the ways the Constitution can be amended. –Article VI contains the supremacy clause, establishing that federal law shall be the supreme Law of the Land.supremacy clause Structure (cont.) –Article VII addresses ratification and says that 9 states are needed to ratify the Constitution.

6. Section 1 Major Principles The Constitution rests on six major principles of government: –Popular sovereignty—rule by the people.Popular sovereignty –Federalism—power is divided between national and state governments.Federalism

7. –Separation of powers—limits the central government by dividing power among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.Separation of powers Section 1 –Checks and balances—each branch of government exercises some control over the others.Checks and balances For example, the president can check Congress by rejecting— vetoing—its legislation. vetoing Major Principles (cont.) System of Checks and Balances