Activity 2.2: Three Branches of Government

Read and watch the videos and articles below to learn more about the Three Branches of Government. As you learn about the Three Branches think about the purpose and power of each.

Videos

Ted Talk: How power is divided in the United States

School House Rocks - Three Ring Circus

Articles

Kids.gov - Three Branches of Government

Ben’s Guide: Branches of Government

Complete the graphic organizer as you view the videos and articles. To get a copy of the graphic organizer, click on the Three Branches of Government Graphic Organizer and go to "File" and "Make a copy". Rename the document with your first initial and last name. Remember to share your document with your teacher.

Three Branches of Government

Legislative

Executive

Judicial

What do they do?

Powers

Who are the Leaders

How are leaders chosen?

Example of check and balance on legislative branch

Example of check and balance on executive branch

Example of check and balance on judicial branch

When you have completed the graphic organizer, answer the questions below as an online text assignment. Click on “Add submission” and write your answers to these questions. When you are finished, click on “Save changes”.

Questions:

  1. Why is it important to have checks and balances?

  1. How is power separate or divided between the branches?

  1. Do you think any branch has more power than the others? Explain why or why not.