Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances
Learning Objective
I can analyze how the principles of the US Constitution, such as separation of powers and checks and balances, are reflected in the structure of the government.
Key Concepts
The national government is divided into three branches: the legislative, the executive, and the judicial.
The main job of the legislative branch is to make laws, while the executive branch is in charge of executing the law, and the judicial branch is responsible to interpret the law.
Each branch has the power to limit the other two branches; this creates a balance between the three separate powers, also known as checks and balances.
Practice Questions
This lesson includes 6 practice questions to reinforce learning.
View questions preview
1. What is the primary function of the legislative branch according to the video?
2. Explain how the executive branch's power is rooted in the Oath of Office, as described in the video.
3. According to the video, what power does Congress have over the creation of courts?
...and 3 more questions
Educational Video
Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances: Crash Course Government and Politics #3
CrashCourse