Unit 2: Summer Assignment
The Constitution - Articles and Amendments
Summer Assignment Preparation
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."
This unit covers the Articles and Amendments of the Constitution. Be prepared to recall or memorize the basics of each part for a quiz. It is suggested that over the next 8 weeks, you spend no more than 1 hour per week addressing each section.
Articles of the Constitution
The Preamble
The purpose and goals of the Constitution - 'We the People...'
Article I: Legislative Branch
Structure and powers of Congress - House and Senate rules, powers, and limitations.
Article II: Executive Branch
Powers of the President - Commander in Chief, appointments, and requirements.
Article III: Judicial Branch
Powers of the Supreme Court and federal courts - lifetime tenure and jurisdiction.
Article IV: States
Relations between states and the federal government - Full Faith and Credit.
Articles V, VI, VII
Amendment process, Supremacy Clause, and ratification requirements.
Amendments to the Constitution
Bill of Rights (1st-10th)
Individual rights and freedoms - speech, religion, due process, and more.
Amendments 11-14
State sovereignty, presidential elections, abolition of slavery, and equal protection.
Amendments 15-19
Voting rights, income tax, direct election of senators, prohibition, and women's suffrage.
Amendments 20-22
Presidential terms, repeal of prohibition, and presidential term limits.
Amendments 23-27
D.C. voting, poll taxes, presidential succession, voting age, and congressional pay.