Social Studies Civics and Government Flashcards
6 cards from real GED practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Social Studies Civics and Government flashcards as text
Which branch of the U.S. federal government has the power to declare laws unconstitutional?
Answer: Judicial branch (Supreme Court)
The judicial branch, particularly the Supreme Court, has the power of judicial review — the authority to declare laws unconstitutional. This power was established in Marbury v. Madison (1803).
What is the primary function of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution?
Answer: It protects freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition
The First Amendment protects five fundamental freedoms: religion (free exercise and no establishment), speech, press, peaceful assembly, and the right to petition the government.
In the U.S. federal system, which level of government is responsible for establishing and regulating schools?
Answer: State and local governments primarily, with some federal oversight
Education is primarily a state and local responsibility under the 10th Amendment (powers not given to federal government are reserved to states). However, the federal government provides funding and sets some standards.
What principle does the phrase 'innocent until proven guilty' represent in the American legal system?
Answer: Presumption of innocence (due process)
The presumption of innocence is a fundamental due process principle: the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt; the accused does not have to prove innocence.
What is the purpose of the Electoral College in the U.S. presidential election system?
Answer: It is a group of representatives from each state that formally elects the President
The Electoral College consists of electors from each state (equal to that state's total congressional representation). Citizens vote for electors who then formally cast electoral votes for President.
Which document established the first government of the United States, before the Constitution was ratified?
Answer: The Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation (1781–1788) was the first governing document of the United States. It created a weak central government, leading to the Constitutional Convention and the current Constitution.