Unit 1 – Origins of Government
Study Guide
The unit assessment will consist of 5 main components for a total of 81 points.
Matching of key vocabulary, multiple choice, short answer (given 5, choose 3), interpreting a diagram (checks and
balances), and a free response essay. In addition to the questions provided on this review activity guide, please
review all notes, graphic organizers, activities and assignments – the same types of questions will be used on the test.
Topic Set 1 – Philosophy and Purpose of government




What is the definition of government?
o What six (6) purposes does it serve?
o Where are these purposes outlined?
Define the term „democracy‟ and provide an example.
Explain „social contract theory‟ in your own words.
What are natural rights, and how do they relate to the social contract theory?
Topic Set 2 – Colonial Origins of United States Government




Define limited government, representative government, and ordered government.
What justification does the Declaration of Independence offer for revolution?
o Of what importance is the Declaration to our history of government?
o What are some of the major points discussed in the Declaration of Independence?
In what ways are the ideas of John Locke and Thomas Jefferson similar?
What purposes did the Articles of Confederation serve? What weaknesses were evident?
o How was Congress structured in the Articles of Confederation?
Topic Set 3 – Constitutional Issues and Compromises






What did delegates agree to do at the Philadelphia Convention?
What was the Virginia Plan? New Jersey Plan? Connecticut Compromise?
How were the issues of slavery and representation resolved at the Constitutional Convention?
o Why was this important for small states?
Describe the debate between the Federalists and the anti-Federalists.
o What concerns did the anti-Federalists have about the power of a federal government?
o What compromise was eventually reached between the two groups?
Explain the relationship between the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution.
Describe the structure of the Constitution.
o How was power divided between the branches?
Topic Set 4 – Constitutional Principles / Ideals and Symbols of Democracy





Explain how the six (6) basic principles of the Constitution are interrelated.
Discuss the significance of the words “We the People”.
o What basic principle of the Constitution does it reflect?
Define republicanism, federalism, separation of powers, checks and balances, limited government,
popular sovereignty.
Explain the major argument for the “states‟ rights” position
Describe each of the ideals (basic concepts) of democracy and explain how they are interrelated.
Key terms/concepts to be familiar with:
■
■
■
Democracy
Popular Sovereignty
Federalism
■
■
■
Federalist
Connecticut Compromise
Articles of Confederation
■
■
■
Government
Bill of Rights
Natural Rights