Checks and Balances
Do Now
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SWBAT explain the checks and balances
of the Constitution.
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Do Now question: “Success is not a
function of fame or PR, but of hard work
and discipline.” – Barak Obama state of the
Union address 1/25
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What does the following quote mean in
relation to your life?
Review yesterday’s exit ticket
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1. What are the three branches of government?
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2. Which of the following defines “constitution”?
A. levels of government
B. a legal document that defines a government
c. judges
d. when governments compete
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3. Explain the following terms: rule of law, popular
sovereignty, checks and balances, federalism
A visual
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Stand in groups of three.
Brainpop
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http://www.brainpop.com/socialstudies/u
sgovernmentandlaw/branchesofgovern
ment/activity/

Fill in the graphic organizer with the
responsibilities of each branch.
In case you didn’t get it from
Brainpop…
Fill in the Graphic Organizer

Write in how each branch “checks” the
other.
Branch of Government Game
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You will be assigned into three groups: legislative, judicial,
and executive.
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I will read a scenario. Take about 2 minutes to discuss with
your group if this is your branch of government and why.
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If it is not your branch of government, figure out which
branch it is and if you can place a check on them.
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I will have the groups raise their hands to explain if they are
the branch who is initiating, and also how you check the
branch.
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Hint: use the chart in the sheet protector to determine if that
is your role in the government.
Independent Practice
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A recent bill to increase funding for
education was passed again after it was
rejected.
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Please write down which branch of the
government this would fall under.
Explain who would check it and how
with your chart.
Exit Ticket
1. Explain what checks and balances are.
 2. What role does the Constitution assign to
the judicial branch?
 a.to give legal advice
 b.to interpret the law
 c.to write new laws
 d.to set legal precedents
 3. What role does the executive branch
play? Name at least two.
 4. How do checks and balances limit
power?
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