Congress for Kids: [Constitution]: Checks and Balances

Constitution

Introduction Delegates to the Constitutional Convention The Work Begins Writing the Constitution The Great Compromise Signing the Constitution Ratifying the Constitution Bill of Rights Powers of the Federal Government The Three Branches of Government Checks and Balances Amendments Women - The Right to Vote

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How does the system of checks and balances affect the way the government works?

Do you think the system of checks and balances was used, misused, or not used in war situations?

Is the American system of checks and balances sufficient to prevent a president from becoming a tyrant?

The Supreme Court: A System of Checks and Balances

Checks and Balances

Print this chart. Use the information from the "Checks and Balances" and "The Three Branches of Government" pages to complete the chart.

POWER	HOW IT CAN BE CHECKED
Congress passes a law.	The president may _____________________ OR the president may __________________ THEN, the Supreme Court may___________
The president vetoes a law passed by Congress.	Congress may_________________________ _____________________________________
The president makes a treaty with another country.	The Senate may_______________________ _____________________________________
The president enforces a law.	The Supreme Court may ______________ _________________________________

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The system of checks and balances is used to keep the government from getting too powerful in one branch. For example, the Executive Branch can veto bills from the Legislative Branch, but the Legislative Branch can override the veto.

Projects You Can Do

In addition to the usual goals involved in mastering the Constitution, the major strength of this activity is that you will become passionately involved in the Constitution, government, the news, and your own learning. You will gain pride and confidence in your ability to master difficult materials. Learn more at:

The Checks and Balances Game

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