Chapter 2- Section 3

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.

How is the Constitution organized?

1. Preamble 2. Seven Articles 3. 27 Amendments

Amendment

Any change to the constitution is an amendment.

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.

Income Tax

Sixteenth amendent allows congress to collect income tax - a tax on people's earnings

What is the Main purpose of the United Constitution?

provide an adaptable framework for government.

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.

What is the purpose of the Preamble to the Constutiton?

tells why the constitution was written

7 Articles

explain how the government is to work. The first three dexcribe the powers and responsibilities of each branch of government.

Bill of Rights

first 10 amendments to constitution

Necessary and Proper Clause

gives COngress power to "make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper" to carry out its duties.

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 conventions held in 50 states.

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 conventions held in 50 states.

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.

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.

Article II

Executive Branch: president and vice president and that they enforce the law.

Article III

Judicial Branch = Courts

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 certain all citizens treated equally. 3. "To insure the domestic Tranquility" - to maintain peace and order, keeping citizens and their property safe from harm. 4. "To provide for the common defense" - to be ready militarily to protect the country and its citizens from outside attacks. 5. "To promote the General Welfare." - to help people live healthy, happy and prosperous lives. 6. "To secure the blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity." - to guarantee the freedom and basic rights of all Americans, including future generations (posterity)

Article I

The Legislative Branch: says the legislature lead role in government. - Congress = two houses (Senate and House of Rep.)

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."

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 Confederation - Congress of one house with equal representation of 13 states has power to: 1. Pass laws by vote of 9 states 2. Declare war 3. Coin and borrow money 4. make treaties 5. amend Articles if all 13 states agree