Civics Branches of U.S. Government Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which branch of the U.S. Government is responsible for writing and enacting federal laws?

Accepted Answer

The Legislative Branch

Answer

The Legislative Branch, composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives, is granted the sole authority to make and change laws by the U.S. Constitution.

Question 2

The President of the United States has the power to veto a bill passed by Congress. This is an example of what principle of the U.S. Constitution?

Accepted Answer

Checks and Balances

Answer

The system of checks and balances allows each branch of government to amend or veto acts of another branch, thus preventing any one branch from exerting too much power. The President's veto power is a key check on the legislative authority of Congress.

Question 3

A citizen believes a new federal law infringes upon their constitutional rights. Which branch of government would be responsible for interpreting the law and determining its constitutionality?

Accepted Answer

The Judicial Branch, through the process of judicial review.

Answer

The Judicial Branch, which includes the Supreme Court and other federal courts, is responsible for interpreting the meaning of laws, applying them to individual cases, and deciding if laws violate the Constitution.

Question 4

Who is in charge of the Executive Branch of the U.S. Government?

Accepted Answer

The President

Answer

The President of the United States is the head of the executive branch, which also includes the Vice President and the President's Cabinet.

Question 5

Which of the following is a power exclusive to the Legislative Branch?

Accepted Answer

Declaring war

Answer

Article I of the Constitution grants Congress the sole authority to declare war. Nominating ambassadors and pardoning crimes are powers of the President (Executive Branch), and determining constitutionality is the role of the Judicial Branch.

Civics Test Practice Test

Civics Test Practice Test

Civics Branches of U.S. Government Questions and Answers