Explain how the power of judicial review acts as a check on both the legislative and executive branches.

Judicial review allows the judiciary to declare laws passed by the legislature or actions taken by the executive branch unconstitutional, thus limiting their power.

Describe the process by which the legislative branch can override a presidential veto. Why is this considered a check on the executive branch?

Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds vote in both the House and the Senate. This is a check because it prevents the President from unilaterally blocking legislation.

How does the Senate's power of 'advice and consent' act as a check on the President's power of appointment?

The Senate must approve many of the President's appointments, including federal judges and key officials. This allows the Senate to prevent the President from filling positions with unqualified or unsuitable candidates.

Checks and Balances in Government

11th GradeSocial Studies45 min

Learning Objective

I can explain how checks and balances limit the power of each branch of the federal government.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

9 min

Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances: Crash Course Government and Politics #3

CrashCourse

Guided Notes

9 min

Key concepts students will learn:

•
The national government is divided into three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
•
Checks and balances allow each branch of government to limit the power of the other two branches, creating a balance of power.
•
According to James Madison in Federalist 51, checks and balances are necessary to protect citizens from potential abuses of power by the government.

Practice

14 min

8 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

“Explain how the power of the executive branch is limited by the legislative branch through checks and balances. Provide a specific example from the video transcript.”

Teacher Guide

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Checks and Balances in Government

Learning Objective

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

Guided Notes

Practice

Exit Ticket

Teacher Guide

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