Congress for Kids: [Constitution]: The Three Branches of Government

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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Our government has three branches. Imagine a triangle. At the top is the Executive Branch. The two bottom corners are the Judicial Branch and the Legislative Branch – also called Congress. Each part of the government is connected to the other. Each has its own responsibilities and powers. A system of checks and balances prevents one branch from gaining too much power. So how does this all work?

How have the three branches of government changed over time and what are their present day challenges?

The Duties of the Three Branches of Government

The Three Branches of Government

Print this multiple choice test and match the power with the branch that is responsible for it:

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Most of the time the House and the Senate each meet in their own chamber in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. However, every once in a while, they must meet together (joint session). For example, a joint session is needed to count the electoral votes in presidential elections. Joint sessions are held in the House chamber.

Projects You Can Do

This is a social studies/technology project that requires you to research the major responsibilities of each of the three branches of the US government.

After learning about the three branches of government, use inspiration to demonstrate your knowledge and create an informational Web site.

You will need to include and show separation of the three branches of government. You need to include the leaders, responsibilities, and the checks and balances between the branches. It is also suggested that you color code or somehow designate a difference between the branches so your Web site is easy to read.

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