Chapter 3 Test

Question 1

Major strength of the constitution

Answer 1

The ability to adapt and change over time

Question 2

Basic principles of the constitution (6)

Answer 2

1) popular sovereignty: people are the source of power
2) limited government: government is not all powerful
3) separation of powers: three branches
4) checks and balances: branches subject to restraint by the others
5) judicial review: court decides if government actions r constitutional
6) federalism: decision between national and state governments

Question 3

Formal amendment

Answer 3

Change in the written wording of the constitution

Question 4

Informal amendment

Answer 4

Unwritten, day to day changes made over time

Question 5

Ways informal amendment can be passed (5)

Answer 5

1) basic legislation: laws passed by congress
2) executive action: powers granted to the president
3) courts decisions: the nations courts determine the governments constitutionality of cases
4) party practice: ideas by political parties
5) customs: unwritten traditions

Question 6

First 3 articles

Answer 6

Creates the legislative branch
Creates the executive branch
Creates the judicial branch