Question 1
Multiple ChoiceHow many branches does the U.S. federal government have?
Explanation
The Constitution divides the federal government into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial.
Question 2
Multiple ChoiceWhich branch of the U.S. government makes the laws?
Explanation
Congress, the legislative branch, writes and passes federal laws.
Question 3
Multiple ChoiceHow many U.S. senators does each state have?
Explanation
The Constitution gives every state two senators, regardless of the state's population.
Question 4
Multiple ChoiceHow long is one term for a member of the U.S. House of Representatives?
Explanation
Members of the House serve two-year terms, so the entire House is up for election every two years.
Question 5
Multiple ChoiceHow long is the term of office for the President of the United States?
Explanation
A presidential term lasts four years, and the 22nd Amendment limits a person to two elected terms.
Question 6
Multiple ChoiceWhich branch of government has the power to declare war?
Explanation
Article I of the Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war.
Question 7
Multiple ChoiceThe power of the Supreme Court to strike down laws that conflict with the Constitution is known as what?
Explanation
Established in Marbury v. Madison (1803), judicial review lets courts declare laws or actions unconstitutional.
Question 8
True FalseThe Bill of Rights refers to the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution.
Explanation
The first ten amendments, ratified in 1791, are collectively known as the Bill of Rights.
Question 9
True FalseAn amendment to the U.S. Constitution can be ratified by the President signing it into law.
Explanation
Presidents play no formal role in amending the Constitution. Amendments are proposed by Congress or a convention and ratified by three-fourths of the states.
Question 10
Multiple SelectWhich of the following are freedoms protected by the First Amendment? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation
The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, religion, the press, peaceable assembly, and petition. The right to vote is protected by other amendments, not the First.