UNIT I STUDYGUIDE

Helpful Hints: The upcoming test will take the form of multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the bland, and matching questions. You will be expected to write out the Preamble. Also, there will be an essay on this test. I will provide you with some sample essay questions that may or may not be on the test. In order to study for this test, I would recommend looking over your class notes, worksheets, movie notes, outside readings, and your textbook (Chpts. 1-4). All of these materials will help you study for the test. In addition, I have provided a list of key terms and questions. Knowing the significance of these terms and questions (which have been taken directly from many of the questions on the test) will help you prepare for the test.

Liberal

Conservative

Moderate

Compromise

Presidential system

Parliamentary system

Dictatorship

Direct democracy

Republic

Aristocracy

Socialism

Communism

Federal government

Unitary government

Confederate government

State

Government

Sovereignty

Anarchy

Baron de Montesquieu

John Locke

Rousseau

Plato

Thoreau

Mussolini

Hobbes

Aristotle

Magna Carta

Petition of Right
Federalism

Spirit of Laws

Two Treatises on Government

Problems with the Articles of Confederation?

How was the Constitution organized? What jobs do each of the Articles outline?

How are the amendments broken up?

Bill of Rights

Virginia Plan

New Jersey Plan

Connecticut or Great Compromise

3/5ths Compromise

How is the Constitution formally and informally amended?

What are the three branches of government and what does each branch do?

How does each branch check and balance each other?

What is the Supremacy Clause?

Who wrote the Federalist Papers? Why are they important?

Why was the Constitutional Convention held in secret?

Who was and wasn't at the Constitutional Convention?

What is federalism?

What are Expressed, Inherent, Implied Powers? What are Reserved powers?

Be sure to review the current events handouts from the group(s) that presented.

What is the Preamble?

What are the topics of the 7 Articles in the Constitution

Sample Essay Questions:

1.) Describe the Federalist and Anti-Federalist ideas on adoption the Constitution. What did each side want and why? Do you think the outcome was good? Why or why not? Be specific.

2.) Briefly describe the five basic concepts of democracy. In your opinion, which one concept is most important in America today? Why?

3.) Briefly describe the four most widely held theories that attempt to explain the origin of the state. What one do you think is the most valid?

4.) What are the six basic principles (not purposes) of the Constitution? Briefly explain them (and give their origins if possible.) What principles are the most important today? Why?