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Structure of the Constitution

Our Objective: What are the main parts and purposes of the US Constitution

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3 Main Sections

Part 1 = Preamble and Introduction

Part 2 = Articles

Part 3 = Amendments

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Preamble

Starts with “We the People”

Lists the six main functions and purposes of the government

Emphasis is to show the people created the document

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US Preamble to the Constitution

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

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Articles

Article I = Legislative Powers

Article II = Executive Powers

Article III = Judicial Powers

Article IV = State Powers

Article V = Amendment Process

Article VI = Maintain some Parts from Articles of Confederation

Article VII = Ratification of States

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Article I - Legislative Branch

  • Describes the 2 house structure (House of Representatives and Senate)
  • Lists requirements to serve in Congress
  • Some powers Include:
    • Impeachment
    • Raising Revenue or Taxes
    • Declare War
    • Raise and Support Armies
    • Regulate Commerce

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Article II - Executive Branch

  • Details the Office of the President
  • Includes the Electoral College- which elects the vice president and the president
  • Powers include:
    • Commander in Chief
    • Make Treaties with Approval from Congress
    • Appoint Judges or Justices on Supreme Court

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Article III - Judicial Branch

  • Describes Supreme Court
  • Trial By Jury, Habeas Corpus, and Specific Cases between states are all part of the Judicial Branch
  • Powers include:
    • Determining Controversial Court Cases
    • Explaining Confusion for Citizens about Constitutional Law
    • Using the best method possible to a fair and speedy trial

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Final Section - Amendments

  • First 10 are called the Bill of Rights
  • Any changes to the constitution are placed at the end of the document
  • Often addresses issues that arise over time

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Major Principles and Terms

Federalism- a form of government where power is shared between the national government and the state

Popular Sovereignty- idea that governance comes from the people

Rule of Law- No one is above the law, all are accountable

Separation of Powers- Powers are split and not all in one location or with one branch

Checks and Balances- a system designed to limit power and make sure no branch gets TOO POWERFUL

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Interesting Facts

  • Ben Franklin was the oldest delegate at the convention
  • George Washington was unanimously elected to preside over the event
  • Took Place in Philadelphia, PA
  • Patrick Henry did not attend
  • James Madison is known as the “Father of the Constitution” for playing a major part in the creation of it
  • Sam Adams was a strong Anti-Federalist

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