Civics and Government Flashcards
6 cards from real NEDP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Civics and Government flashcards as text
What does the principle of 'checks and balances' mean in the U.S. government?
Answer: Each branch of government has powers that limit the other branches.
Checks and balances ensures no single branch dominates — Congress can override vetoes, the President appoints judges, and courts can strike down laws.
What is the difference between a democracy and a republic?
Answer: In a direct democracy, citizens vote on laws directly; in a republic, citizens elect representatives to make laws.
The United States is a constitutional republic — citizens elect representatives who govern on their behalf, rather than voting directly on every law.
The First Amendment protects which of the following rights?
Answer: Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition
The First Amendment guarantees five core freedoms: speech, religion, press, peaceful assembly, and petitioning the government.
What is the purpose of the judicial review power established in Marbury v. Madison (1803)?
Answer: To allow federal courts to declare laws unconstitutional
Judicial review, established by Chief Justice Marshall, gives the Supreme Court power to invalidate laws that violate the Constitution.
Which level of government has primary responsibility for public education in the United States?
Answer: State and local governments
Education is primarily a state and local responsibility under the 10th Amendment. The federal government provides supplemental funding and guidelines.
What does it mean for the United States to have a 'federal' system of government?
Answer: Power is divided between the national government and state governments.
Federalism divides governmental power between a national government and state governments, each with their own areas of authority.