- The United States Constitution is the supreme law of the United States, written in 1787 and effective since 1789.
- It establishes the federal government's structure and the rights and freedoms of American citizens.
- The Constitution is divided into three main parts: the Preamble, the Articles, and the Amendments.
- The Preamble outlines the Constitution’s purpose, including establishing justice, promoting general welfare, and securing liberty.
- The Articles establish the three branches of government: legislative (makes laws), executive (enforces laws, headed by the President), and judicial (interprets laws, includes Supreme Court).
- Important amendments protect citizen rights: First Amendment (speech, religion, assembly, press), Second Amendment (bear arms), Fourth Amendment (protection from unreasonable searches), Fifth and Sixth Amendments (fair trial rights), Eighth Amendment (prohibits cruel punishment).
- The Constitution includes a process for amendments requiring proposal by 2/3 of both houses of Congress or by a convention called by 2/3 of state legislatures, followed by ratification by 3/4 of state legislatures.
- The Bill of Rights, consisting of the first ten amendments, was added in 1791 to further protect individual liberties.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of reading comprehension worksheet grade 6.
