Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances
Grade 11th Grade · Social Studies · 40 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can analyze how the principles of the US Constitution, such as separation of powers and checks and balances, are reflected in the structure of the government.
Warm-Up Video
CrashCourse · 8:31
Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances: Crash Course Government and Politics #3
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
The national government is divided into three branches: the legislative, the executive, and the judicial.
- 2
The main job of the legislative branch is to make laws, while the executive branch is in charge of executing the law, and the judicial branch is responsible to interpret the law.
- 3
Each branch has the power to limit the other two branches; this creates a balance between the three separate powers, also known as checks and balances.
Practice Questions
6 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Explain how the principle of separation of powers is reflected in the structure of the U.S. government. Provide one example of how each branch (legislative, executive, and judicial) is distinct in its function.”
Teacher Guide
Get the complete package:
- Answer keys for all questions
- Differentiation strategies
- Extension activities
- Printable student handouts
