The writers of the United States Constitution divided government authority among
three branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. Which
constitutional principle does this arrangement demonstrate?
A. Popular sovereignty
B. Separation of powers
C. Judicial review
D. Federalism
Answer: B
The Constitution separates legislative, executive, and judicial powers so that no
single branch controls all governmental authority.
2.
The Declaration of Independence states that governments receive their authority
from which source?
A. Congress
B. State legislatures
C. The military
D. The consent of the governed
,Answer: D
According to the Declaration, legitimate government exists only with the consent
of the people it governs.
3.
Which branch of the federal government has the constitutional authority to make
laws?
A. Executive Branch
B. Judicial Branch
C. Legislative Branch
D. State Governments
Answer: C
Article I of the Constitution gives legislative powers to Congress, which consists of
the House of Representatives and the Senate.
4.
One purpose of the system of checks and balances is to ensure that each branch of
government can limit the powers of the other branches. Which example best
illustrates this principle?
A. Congress appoints Supreme Court justices.
, B. The President may veto legislation passed by Congress.
C. The Supreme Court writes federal laws.
D. Governors approve constitutional amendments.
Answer: B
The presidential veto is one of the Constitution's checks on legislative power.
5.
Why did many delegates at the Constitutional Convention believe that a stronger
national government was necessary than the one created under the Articles of
Confederation?
A. The Articles gave too much power to the President.
B. The national government controlled state elections.
C. The Articles created a weak central government that lacked important
governing powers, including taxation.
D. The Articles allowed Congress to appoint governors.
Answer: C
The Articles of Confederation limited national authority, making it difficult to raise
revenue, regulate commerce, or enforce laws.
6.