AP Gov argument essay FRQ key terms
This study set covers key terms and concepts essential for writing effective argument essays for the AP Government exam, focusing on political institutions and their functions within American democracy.
Quiz(32 questions)
1. What does social contract theory imply about the relationship between individuals and government?
Terms in this Study Set(32)
Foundational Concepts(16)
Social Contract Theory → Definition?
The idea that individuals consent to form a government for protection of their rights. Key philosophers: Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau.
True or False: The Constitution originated from the Articles of Confederation.
True. The Constitution was created to address weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation.
Fill in the blank: Separation of powers divides government into ___ branches.
Three branches: Legislative, Executive, Judicial.
Which amendment guarantees freedom of speech?
The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.
Federalism → Definition?
A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent units. Example: Shared powers between national and state governments.
Comparison: Direct Democracy vs. Representative Democracy?
Direct Democracy: Citizens vote on laws directly. Representative Democracy: Citizens elect representatives to make decisions.
What does the term 'checks and balances' mean?
A system that ensures no one branch of government becomes too powerful. Each branch can limit the powers of the others.
What is popular sovereignty?
The principle that government derives its authority from the consent of the governed. Example: Voting in elections.
True or False: The Bill of Rights is the first ten amendments.
True. They protect individual liberties and limit government power.
Cause → Effect: What led to the Federalist Papers?
The need to persuade states to ratify the Constitution and explain its benefits.
What is the purpose of the judiciary?
To interpret laws, resolve disputes, and ensure justice. The Supreme Court is the highest court.
Define 'limited government.'
A government whose powers are restricted by law, usually through a constitution. Prevents abuse of power.
Who wrote 'The Social Contract'?
Jean-Jacques Rousseau. It discusses the concept of collective governance.
True or False: An amendment requires a two-thirds majority in Congress.
True. Amendments must be approved by two-thirds of both houses of Congress.
What is the principle of judicial review?
The power of courts to assess whether a law is in compliance with the Constitution. Established by Marbury v. Madison.
List two key features of a republic.
1. Elected representatives. 2. Rule of law.
Political Institutions(16)
What is the role of Congress?
Congress makes laws, represents citizens, and oversees the executive branch's actions.
Define checks and balances.
A system that ensures no branch of government becomes too powerful. Example: Congress can override a presidential veto.
True or False: The Senate has the power to impeach.
False. The House impeaches; the Senate conducts the trial.
Fill in the blank: The President can ______ laws.
veto. This prevents a bill from becoming law unless overridden by Congress.
Comparison: House vs. Senate.
- House: 435 members, 2-year terms. - Senate: 100 members, 6-year terms.
What is judicial review?
The power of courts to review laws and executive actions for constitutionality, established in Marbury v. Madison.
Describe the role of the President.
The President serves as the head of state, commander-in-chief, and chief diplomat, among other roles.
What are executive orders?
Directives issued by the President that manage operations of the federal government. They carry the force of law.
True or False: All Supreme Court justices are appointed for life.
True. Justices serve until they resign, retire, or are removed.
What is the purpose of the Electoral College?
It elects the President and Vice President through a system of electors, reflecting the federal nature of the U.S. government.
Define federalism.
A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units, like states.
What is the significance of the Bill of Rights?
It protects individual liberties and limits government power, ensuring rights such as freedom of speech and religion.
Cause → Effect: What happens if a bill passes both houses?
It goes to the President, who can sign it into law or veto it.
What is the role of the Cabinet?
Advises the President and manages specific departments, such as Defense or Education.
How does the impeachment process work?
The House votes to impeach; the Senate holds a trial. If convicted, the official is removed.
Comparison: Unitary vs. Federal system.
- Unitary: Centralized power. - Federal: Power shared between national and state governments.
Questions in this Study Set(32)
1. What does social contract theory imply about the relationship between individuals and government?
2. What is the primary function of the House of Representatives?
3. True or False: The Articles of Confederation were a successful framework for U.S. governance.
4. Which branch of government has the power to declare war?
5. Fill in the blank: The Constitution establishes a ___ government.
6. True or False: The President can unilaterally declare war.
7. Which amendment protects the right to assemble peacefully?
8. What is a filibuster?
9. What is the primary feature of federalism?
10. Which of the following is NOT a check on executive power?
11. Which of the following best describes a direct democracy?
12. What happens if the Senate does not ratify a treaty?
13. What is the function of checks and balances?
14. What is the role of the Supreme Court in the American political system?
15. What does popular sovereignty mean?
16. Which amendment established the process for presidential succession?
17. True or False: The Bill of Rights includes protections against government overreach.
18. What is an executive agreement?
19. What prompted the creation of the Federalist Papers?
20. Which of the following best describes a divided government?
21. What is the judiciary's main responsibility?
22. What does the term 'pocket veto' refer to?
23. Define 'limited government.'
24. What role do political parties play in the American political system?
25. Who is known for writing 'The Social Contract'?
26. Which of the following powers is reserved to the states?
27. True or False: Amendments to the Constitution require approval by two-thirds of Congress.
28. What is the significance of the Necessary and Proper Clause?
29. What is judicial review?
30. What is the primary function of the Senate in the impeachment process?
31. Which of the following are key features of a republic?
32. Which of the following is NOT a power of Congress?
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