- The Legislative Branch (Congress) makes laws, including proposing constitutional amendments, ratifying treaties, governing U.S. territories, and levying taxes.
- The Executive Branch (President) enforces laws by appointing ambassadors and federal judges, making treaties, granting pardons, commanding the armed forces, and executing national policy.
- The Judicial Branch (Supreme Court and lower courts) interprets laws by hearing cases involving states, treaty law, or federal law, and ruling on the constitutionality of laws.
- The Senate confirms presidential appointments, approves treaties, tries impeached officials, and elects the Vice President if needed.
- The House of Representatives initiates revenue bills, impeaches federal officials, and elects the President if no candidate wins a majority in the Electoral College.
- The President can veto legislation, call Congress into special session, and is commander-in-chief of the military.
- The Supreme Court has lifetime-appointed justices who interpret the Constitution and can declare laws unconstitutional.
- Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers and can impeach and remove the President or other federal officials.
- The President can pardon individuals for federal offenses and negotiate with foreign nations.
- The Judicial Branch ensures laws comply with the Constitution and resolves disputes between states or involving federal law.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of free printable civics worksheet.
