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Date:
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Project: American Government Graphic
Organizer
Government Module 2 Lesson 1 {M2L1}
Pre-Work Activity
1. Your poster must explain the characteristics of each branch.
Below is a list of characteristics that the leaders want included
on the poster. Match each characteristic with the correct branch
of government: legislative, executive, or judicial.
Characteristics
includes the Supreme Court
has the ability to declare war
can negotiate with foreign powers
can rule a law unconstitutional
has the right to impose taxes
heads the military
Branch of Government
2. Your poster must visually associate the three branches of
government with the six characteristics from the chart above
(number 1). Brainstorm possible graphics, pictures, and
illustrations that will show the three branches of government and
their characteristics.
3. Your poster must define “separation of powers.” Write a
definition for “separation of powers.”
4. Your poster must visually represent “separation of powers” using
graphics, pictures, or illustrations. Brainstorm possible visual
elements that can illustrate “separation of powers.”
5. Your poster must define “checks and balances.” Write a
definition for “checks and balances.”
6. Your poster must visually represent “checks and balances” using
graphics, pictures, or illustrations. Brainstorm possible visual
elements that can illustrate “checks and balances.”
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Put It Together
Now, complete your poster. Your poster must do the following:
 Name and graphically represent the three branches of
government.
 Give the characteristics (use the Pre-Work Activity
form) of each branch of government.
 Define and graphically represent “separation of
powers.”
 Define and graphically represent “checks and balances.”
Remember, your poster’s visual elements must be clear, logical, and
relevant. Use the Pre-Work Activity form, class notes and activities,
the rubric, and the directions in your design.
When you are finished, turn in the poster and the Pre-Work Activity
form to your instructor.
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