The Constitution

1
The Constitution

• How it Works

Peggy Schafer Grade 5 Gasconade County
R-II Social Studies ObjectiveSocial Studies
5-12 Students will identify people,
places, and activities as legislative, executive
or legislative GLES Identify Important
principles in the Constitution
2
What is the Constitution?

• Code of laws
• Framework for government
• Piece of history

3
Framework for Government

• Federal system states and the central
  government share power

Some powers are given only to the states.
Some powers are given only to the federal
government.
4
Powers Given to State Governments

• Set up public schools
• Set up local governments
• Run elections

5
Powers given to the FederalGovernment

• Declare war
• Coin money
• Make treaties with other countries
• Run the post office
• Settle disputes between states

6
Branches of Government

• Executive
• Legislative
• Judicial

7
Powers of the Branches of Government
8
Checks and Balances

• Powers of one branch are balanced by the powers
  of another
• Each branch can check, or stop another branch
• If one branch tried to use its powers wrongly,
  the other two could keep it under control