Preamble
The opening section of the Constitution and tells why the constitution was written. Reads "We the People of the United States ... do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
Amendment
Any change to the constitution is an amendment.
Bill of Rights
first 10 amendments to constitution
Income Tax
Sixteenth amendent allows congress to collect income tax - a tax on people's earnings
How is the Constitution organized?
1. Preamble
2. Seven Articles
3. 27 Amendments
What do the three parts of the Constitution accomplish?
1. First, the Preamble, an introduction that states the goals and purposes of the government.
2. Seven Articles that describe the structure of the government.
3. 27 amendments or additions and changes to the constitution.
What is the president really pledging to protect?
Every American president takes an oath to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States." This is the Oath of Office all presidents take when being sworn into office.
Middle Part of Preamble
States six purposes of the government:
1. "to form more perfect union." - to unite the states more effectively so they can operate as a single nation, for the good of all.
2. "To establish justice" - to create a system of fair laws and courts and make cer
7 Articles
explain how the government is to work. The first three dexcribe the powers and responsibilities of each branch of government.
Article I
The Legislative Branch: says the legislature lead role in government.
- Congress = two houses (Senate and House of Rep.)
Article II
Executive Branch: president and vice president and that they enforce the law.
Article III
Judicial Branch = Courts
Article IV-VII
Article IV = all states must respect each others laws, court decisions and records.
Article V = tells how amendments made.
Article VI = "Supreme Law of the Land" meaning federal law is the Boss.
Article VII = states when the COnstitution takes effect.
What is the Main purpose of the United Constitution?
provide an adaptable framework for government.
How do you amend the constitution
1. vote of two-thirds of members of both houses
2. Ratification - approved by three-fourths of 50 state legistlatures
OR
1. by national convention called at the request of two-thirds of 50 state legislatures
2. Approved by three-fourths of ratifying conve
WHy are amendments to the Constitution necessary
safeguard of our freedoms. For example, amendments abolished slavery and the right of women to vote were added by amendment.
Necessary and Proper Clause
gives COngress power to "make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper" to carry out its duties.
What is the purpose of the Preamble to the Constutiton?
tells why the constitution was written
IN what two ways can an amendent to the U.S. Constitution be ratified? How are the states involved in these processes.
1. vote of two-thirds of members of both houses
2. Ratification - approved by three-fourths of 50 state legistlatures
OR
1. by national convention called at the request of two-thirds of 50 state legislatures
2. Approved by three-fourths of ratifying conve
Which part of the Constitution do you think is the most important?
Article III - Judicial because it makes sure all the laws are applied fairly.
Review the chart that compares the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution on page 84. How did Congress differ under both forms of government?
Under constitution
- Pass laws by majority vote
- Declare War
- Coin and borrow money
- approve treaties
- AMend Constitution 2/3 vote in both houses and approval by 3/4 of states
- tax
-regulate commerce
- Confirm presidential nominations
Articles of Con