Structure and Principles of the U.S. Constitution

1. Structure and Principles of the U.S. Constitution Chapter 3 Section 1

2. Section 1 Structure • The U.S. Constitution is divided into three parts: the preamble, seven divisions called articles, and the amendments. • The Preamble explains why the constitution was written and the purpose of government. • Article I establishes the legislative branch. • Section 1 creates the Congress.

3. Section 1 Structure (cont.) • Article II creates an executive branch to carry out laws created by Congress. • Its sections outline the detail of presidential powers, describe required presidential qualifications, and provide for a vice president.

4. Section 1 Structure (cont.) • Article III creates a judicial branch. • Section I establishes a Supreme Court to head the judicial branch. • Section 2 outlines the jurisdiction, or authority, of the Supreme Court and other federal courts. • Section 3 defines treason.

5. Section 1 Structure (cont.) • Article IV explains the relationship of the states to one another and to the national government. • Article V spells out the ways the Constitution can be amended. • Article VI contains the supremacy clause, establishing that federal law shall be the supreme Law of the Land. • Article VII addresses ratification and says that 9 states are needed to ratify the Constitution.

6. Section 1 Major Principles • The Constitution rests on six major principles of government: • Popular sovereignty—rule by the people. • Federalism—power is divided between national and state governments.

7. Section 1 Major Principles (cont.) • Separation of powers—limits the central government by dividing power among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. • Checks and balances—each branch of government exercises some control over the others. • For example, the president can check Congress by rejecting—vetoing—its legislation. System of Checks and Balances