1. How the Federal Government Works: The Legislative Branch 8.28 Describe the significance of the Magna Carta, the English Bill of Rights, and the Mayflower Compact in relation to the development of government in America. (C, H, P) 8.33 Describe the principles embedded in the Constitution, including the purposes of government listed in the Preamble, separation of powers, check and balances, the amendment process, federalism, and recognition of and protections of individual rights in the Bill of Rights. (P)

2. Two Houses of Legislature The Senate Equal number of representation 2 senators from each state 6 year terms Vice-President presides – cast a vote if there is a tie Age = 30 – resident of the state from which elected citizen for 9 years The House of Representative Membership based on Population Currently 435 members Every sates has at least one – larger states more 2 year terms Leader = Speakers – chosen by the representatives – regulates debates and controls the agenda Age = 25 years old – resident of states from which elected citizen for 7 years

3. Powers of Congress MAKE LAWS – introduced into either the House or the Senate. Debate and vote. President can sign = Law President can veto – Congress can override 2/3 vote is required to override Other Duties: collect taxes, coin money, establish post offices, fix standard weights and measures and declare war https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFroMQl Kiag

4. Congressional Committees Much of the work in Congress is done through Committees Each has a specific topic or job Standing Committees : Defense, Education, Taxation, Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, or Science