Guided Notes for Civics End of Course Exam

SS.7.C.1.1 ENLIGHTENMENT

Enlightenment: a period in European history when many educated people developed new
ideas to improve human existence
John Lockes natural rights: life, liberty, and property (Natural rights: Rights people have
that cannot be taken away by anyone or any govt
Montesquieus
a. Separation of Powers: divide the govt into three branches. Executive, judicial,
and legislative. Give each branch different but equal powers/roles in the govt
b. Checks and balances: divide the govt into three branches. Executive, judicial,
and legislative. Give each branch different but equal powers/roles in the govt.
Give each branch of govt the power to limit the other two branches if
they abuse their powers.
Social contract: the govt must protect peoples rights (Lockes natural rights) and people
must follow/obey the laws of the govt
Consent of the Governed: if the govt does not protect peoples rights then they have the
right to revolt.
natural law : laws passed by government to protect natural rights
individual liberty - a persons ability to be free and independent
Founding Fathers - representatives from each of the 13 colonies who participated in writing
the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution
SS.7.C.1.2 KEY DOCUMENTS
Document Explanation Impact of the Document
English Bill of Limited the power of the king Framers/creators of the US Constitution
Rights and expanded/increased the included their own Bill of Rights in the US
power of the people by Constitution
creating a list of rights that
people of England had.
Magna Carta First document to limit the Developed the idea of a limited
power of the king, increase govt. limited government - a
the power for the nobles, and government that has been limited
create a legislative body know in power by a constitution, or
as Parliament. written agreement & Checks and
Balances
habeas corpus- the principle that
the government has to provide a
cause or reason for holding a
person in jail
Rule of Law: the U.S. Constitution is
the law of the land and no one is
above it.
Mayflower an agreement between Developed the idea of self-govt.
Compact individuals that created a
government that would Self-govt: popular or representative
provide order and protect the system where the people create and run
rights of the colonists. The their own government
colonist did not know who
would be in charge when they
landed in N. America so they
had to develop their own
 govt
Common Sense A pamphlet that explain why Fueled the colonist fight for
(by Thomas it only made sense for the independence.
Paine) colonist in N. America to
break away from England. The
King of England was violating
the colonists rights.

limited monarchy - a system of government in which the king or queen shares authority
with an elected legislature and agrees to be bound by a constitution or a set of laws, also
known as a constitutional monarchy
SS.7.C.1.3 ENGLISH POLICIES

French & British Policies Colonial Response to Declaration of

Indian War British Policies Independence
The British In order for Britain/England to The colonist were upset Colonist officially
(Britain, Pay off its debt it because they were broke away from
British Required the colonist to pay Being taxed without England and
Colonies in taxes. Representation: NO Created their own
North Examples of taxes imposed on the TAXATION WITHOUT Nation: United
America, and colonist & events that fueled the REPRESENTATION. The States of America.
Native revolutionary war: British govt created
Americans) 1. Stamp Act: Tax on official taxes without allowing The DOI listed the
fought in a documents the colonist to send a grievances
war against 2. Tea act: The Tea Act lowered representative to (complaints) of the
the French the price on this East India tea Parliament. colonist and stated
(French, so much that it was way below 1. Colonist began to that they were their
Spanish, and tea prices from other suppliers. boycott British own nation.
Native goods (refused to
Colonist felt this was a way to
Americans) purchase)
control them. 2. Wrote to the king
over control
3. Boston Massacre: Colonist were pleading with
of the Ohio
protesting/rioting in the streets. him to repeal
River Valley/
British Soldiers (red coats) felt (take away) the
Fur Trade
scared and fired into the crowd unfair taxes.
industry.
killing 5 colonist
British Won,
4. Boston Tea Party: Colonist were
but war is not
upset about the Tea act so they
cheap so the
dressed as Native Americans and
country was
threw the tea into the harbor.
in debt.

Terms:
Loyalist: loyal to England. Did not want to break away
Patriot: Rebels. Wanted to break away from England and create their own nation.

SS.7.C.1.4 DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE (DOI)

What is the DOI? A document written in 1776 that listed the basis for democratic
government and the grievances of the colonists. Stated that the colonist were breaking
away from England.
Cause of the DOI?
 a. Enlightenment ideas of the rights of the citizen (natural rights & the Role of the Govt)
b. Thomas Paines Common Sense: Since the king violated their rights the people had the
right to break away from England.
c. Consent of the Governed: If the Govt does not protect the citizens rights then the
people have the right to over throw the govt
d. NO TAXATION W/OUT REPRESENTATION
Difference between Lockes Natural Rights & the Natural rights listed in the DOI?
LOCKES NATURAL RIGHTS: life, liberty, property
NATURAL RIGHTS LISTED IN THE DOI: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness
Terms:
a. Tyranny/Tyrant: a government that abuses its power
b. Monarchy: country ruled by a king or queen. The ruler gets his/her power through
heredity/blood line/family
c. Oppression/Oppressed: the use of authority or power in a cruel or unjust manner
SS.7.C.1.5 ARTICLES OF CONFEDERATION (AOC)
Constitution: a written plan for the govt
ARTICLES OF CONFEDERATION (AOC): first constitution of the US
Confederal system: states have all the power. Little to no central govt

WEAKNESS OF THE ARTICLE OF SOLUTIONS FOR THE AOC THAT WERE

CONFEDERATION (AOC) INCLUDED IN THE U.S. CONSTITUTION
Congress had no power to tax: could not Gave Congress the power to tax and collect
collect money to pay for a military taxes.
Congress had no power to regulate trade Gave congress the power to regulate trade
Congress had no power to ENFORCE its own Created an executive branch (President) to
laws. The national govt lacked strong enforce laws
leadership. No EXECUTIVE branch
The national Govt lack a national court Created a judicial branch (courts) to interpret
system. Who would INTERPRET laws? No laws
JUDICIAL Branch
Amendments (changes) to the AOC required a of the states must agree to ratify
Unanimous decision (all 13 states had to agree amendments
to make changes)
Required 9 of 13 states to ratify (approve) new of states must agree to ratify
laws
The national/central govt has no power. Balance the power between the National
Confederal system. Govt and the states.
Timeline:
Colonial Declaration Articles of Shays Rebellion: Farmers were US Constitution
Grievan of Confederation upset b/c they were promised
ces over Independenc money if they fought in the war
English e against Britain but once the
Policies new nation was formed the
nation was unable to repay the
soldiers since the govt could
not
SS.7.C.1.6 PREAMBLE
What is the Preamble?: Introduction to the US Constitution. Listed the 6 goals of the Country.
Students need to memorize the Preamble:
We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure
domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, 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.

Parts in the Preamble Meaning

We the People
(first three words)
form a more perfect union
establish justice
insure domestic tranquility
provide for the common defence
promote the general welfare
secure the blessings of liberty to
ourselves and our posterity
The govt gets its powers from the people.
Create a better govt
The govt will treat everyone fairly and equally under the
law
The govt will keep the country at peace. It will protect
the citizens from conflict within the country.
The government will provide one central defense against
any attacks from outside countries or groups. The govt
must provide the military.
This means that government is focused on the public
interest and that every state and individual can benefit
from what the government can provide.
This means that by having a government focused on the
common good, current and future generations will have a
government that protects liberty and freedom.

SS.7.C.1.7 SEPARATION OF POWERS VS CHECKS AND BALANCES

Terms:
constitutional government - a form of government based on a written set of laws that all
citizens agree to; in this form of government, the constitution is the highest law of the land
limited government - a government that has been limited in power by a constitution, or
written agreement
Difference between Montesquieus Separation of Powers & Checks and Balances.
a. Separation of Powers: divide the govt into three branches. Executive, judicial,
and legislative. Give each branch different but equal powers/roles in the govt
b. Checks and balances: divide the govt into three branches. Executive, judicial,
and legislative. Give each branch different but equal powers/roles in the govt.
Give each branch of govt the power to limit the other two branches if
they abuse their powers.
SS.7.C.1.8 FEDERALIST VS ANTI-FEDERALIST
Federalist Anti-Federalist
Wanted to ratify the new US Did NOT want to ratify the US
Constitution Constitution.
Wanted to increase the power of the Felt the new constitution would take
central/national govt. Wanted the Natl away states powers. Were afraid that
govt to have more power than what it the National/federal/central govt would
had under the AOC be too powerful.
Wanted to incorporate Separation of Did not feel the systems of Checks and
Powers & Checks & Balances into the Balances & Separation of Powers would
Constitution work.
Felt the New Constitution would better The necessary and proper clause,
unite the country. also known as the elastic clause, of
Did not feel listing (enumerating) the Constitution would give too much
specific rights in the Constitution was a power to Congress.
good idea b/c it would be impossible to Wanted the BILL OF RIGHTS to be add
 think of all rights that citizens were (the Bill of Rights listed specific rights of
entitled to. the people.
Did not want the National Govt to have
a standing army at all times.
Did not want to be put back into a
similar situation to what they had under
the kings rule.
Compromise that led to the Ratification of the US Constitution: Included the Bill of Rights (See
Bill of Rights Standard for specifics)
Term:
Necessary and proper clause - the power of Congress to make laws they view as necessary
and proper to carry out their enumerated powers; also known as the elastic clause
SS.7.C.1.9 RULE OF LAW
Rule of Law: The laws of the US apply to everyone. No one is above the law.
14th amendment: all citizens have equal protection under the law
Independent judiciary - the principle that decisions from the courts are fair and impartial
and are not influenced by the other branches of government. The judicial branch is
responsible for making sure the laws are applied fairly/equally.
SS.7.C.3.10 SOURCES AND TYPES OF LAWS
Types of Laws Explanation of Each Type of Law
Constitutional Law law that focuses on interpreting the U.S. Constitution
Statutory Law laws passed by Congress or a state legislature
Case Law law established based on the outcome of former court cases
Common Law law based on customs and prior legal decisions; used in civil cases
Criminal Law law that deals with crimes and the punishments for those crimes
Juvenile Law law that deals with people who are under the age of 18
Civil Law law that deals with relationships between people (rather than
relationships between people and the government) Examples:
disputes, divorces, adoption
Military Law laws that apply only to people in the military
Terms:
Precedents: a court decision in an earlier case with facts and legal issues similar to those
in a case currently before a court
Supremacy Clause - the clause that states that the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of
the land, and that national laws are supreme over state laws, found in Article VI (six)
Statutes: a law passed at the state level

SS.7.C.2.1 CITIZENSHIP

All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are
citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside. No state shall make or
enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United
States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process
of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. U.S.
Constitution, Amendment XIV, Section 1 (1868)
1. Explain the 14th Amendment.
A person is a citizen if they are born a citizen or complete the naturalization process
Equal Protection Clause: All citizens have equal protection under the law
2. Explain the three ways a person can become a citizen.
Law of Soil: born on US soil
 Law of Blood: at least one of my parents is a US citizen
Naturalization Process: A process people can complete to become a citizen.
3. What are the requirements a person must meet to become a naturalized citizen?
At least 18 yrs old
Be a legal resident (have a visa) for at least 5 years
File/fill out the forms to become a US citizen.
Must be able to read, write, and speak English
Understand US history and civics
Be a good moral character
4. Explain the naturalization process.
Meet all requirements for naturalization
Fill out the naturalization forms
Get finger printed
Pass the US History/Civics test
Complete an interview
Take an oath of allegiance to the US
5. Define Immigrant. a person who comes to a country to live there permanently
SS.7.C.2.2 OBLIGATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES OF CITIZENS
1. What is an obligation? Something you have to do.
2. What is a responsibility? Something you should do but are NOT required to.
3. Common good: - beliefs or actions that are seen as a benefit to the community rather than
individual interests, also known as the public good
4. Fill in the following chart of examples of obligations vs. responsibilities

Obligations: Responsibilities:
Obeying laws Voting
Paying taxes Attending civic meetings
Defending the nation Petitioning the govt
Registering for selective service (a system by Running for office
which men ages 18 through 25 register with
the U.S. government for military service)
Serving on jury duty Performing community service (volunteering.
Not court ordered community service)

5. Fill in the following chart on how the obligations relate/impact the common good:

Obligation How it relates to the Common Good:

Obeying laws Keeps the country safe and orderly
Paying Taxes The govt uses the money to improve the country
Jury Duty People could not have a fair trial (due process) without a jury of their
peers.
Defending the Nation Keeps the citizens safe from those that may harm us.

SS.7.C.2.4 BILL OF RIGHTS

What are the Bill of Rights? 1st ten amendment of the US Constitution.
What are amendments? Changes to a document.

AMENDMENT Explanation of Each Amendment

One Freedom of press, freedom of religion, freedom of speech/express,
freedom to assemble/gather, freedom to petition the govt
Two Right to bear arms. The government cannot stop citizens from
keeping guns because the military is necessary to keep peace.
 Three The government cannot force people to quarter troops/soldiers. No
soldiers can be kept in peoples homes in time of peace, without the
permission of the owner; if in time of war, certain laws have to be
followed.
Four Citizens have the right to be safe in their houses, their belongings,
and their persons against unreasonable searches and seizures. If
the government wants to search anything, they must have a search
warrant which tells what they are looking for and where they can
search.
Five No person can be charged with a crime unless the charges have been
brought by a grand jury. Double Jeopardy: A person cannot be charged
with the same crime twice. Plead the Fifth: A person does not have to
testify against himself/herself. Due Process: A person cant have his or
Rights of the accused her life, his or her property, or his or her freedoms taken from him or
(criminal) her without being treated fairly by the law. Eminent Domain: A
persons property cant be taken from him or her without receiving
money for the property.
Six When a person is accused of a crime, he or she will have a quick and
public trial. The jury will be fair. The accused will be told what the
charge is and can face the people who say he or she broke the law.
Rights of the accused The accused can have a lawyer to help him or her with the case.
(Criminal)
Seven When a person sues another person and the amount of money is over
$20.00, the case may be decided by a jury, and the decision will be
Civil final.
Eight Excessive bail or fines cannot be required. No cruel or unusual
punishment is allowed.
Nine People have other rights that are not listed here (in the Bill Of
Rights/Constitution)
Ten Rights not given to the national govt belong to the states if they are
not prohibited

SS.7.C.2.5 CONSTITUTIONAL SAFEGUARDS & LIMITS

1. Why does the Govt create Safeguards? To protect the rights of the people
2. Why does the Govt include limitations on peoples rights? These guidelines are used to
help decide when individual rights interfere with other important rights and interests,
including the rights of other individuals.
3. What are the questions the courts have to ask when determining appropriate times to limit
peoples rights?
Clear and Present Danger Will this act of speech create a dangerous situation?
Fighting Words Will this act of speech create a violent situation?
Libel Is information about another person false or does it make true information
appear false?
Conflict with Government Interests During times of war the government may limit
acts of speech because of national security (such as when the government is
concerned that certain information may be found out by the enemy).
SS.7.C.3.7 IMPORTANT AMENDMENTS
Amendments Explanation of Each Amendment
13 Abolished slavery everywhere in the US.
14 Defines Citizenship (Law of Soil, Law of Blood, Naturalization
process)
 Gave former slaves/African Americans citizenship
Equal Protection Clause: Every citizen is equal under the law

15 States CANNOT deny citizens the right to vote based on their

race/color/previous servitude.
Gave African American males the right to vote
19 States CANNOT deny a citizen the righto vote based on their
gender.
Womens suffrage. Women gain the right to vote
24 States cannot prohibit citizens from voting b/c of failure to pay a poll
tax
26 Changed the voting age from 21 to 18. Must be at least 18 years old to
vote

SS.7.C.3.12 LANDMARK SUPREME COURT CASES

Landmark Case Summary
Gideon V. Gideon was arrested in FL for breaking and entering
Wainwright Courts denied him the right to a lawyer
Courts violated his 14th (He did not have a fair trial b/c he was poor &
could not afford a lawyer) & 6th (denied the right to a lawyer)
Amendment rights
Miranda v. Miranda was arrested for kidnapping.
Arizona He did not know he had the right to remain silent or that he had the
right to a lawyer. After confessing to the crime he appealed the case
on the grounds that his 5th & 6th Amendment rights were violated b/c
he did not know he had those rights.
Miranda rights were created. Police have to read people these rights
Tinker v. Des Students were suspended from school b/c they wore black arm bands
Moines to protest the Vietnam War.
Supreme Court ruled that the students 1st amendment right was
violated. Schools only have the right to limit students
freedoms/rights if their actions effect the learning environment.
US v. Nixon Nixon refused to overturn audio tapes. He said he had executive
order which allowed him to keep the tapes from the courts.
The Supreme Court ordered Nixon to overturn the tapes b/c of Rule
of Law. No one is above the law/the law applies to everyone.
Hazelwood Principal removed a student written article from the school
School District v. newspaper.
Kuhlmeier Students felt it violated their 1st amendment right
The Supreme Court ruled that schools can limit students rights if
their actions are disrupting the learning environment.
Bush V. Gore During the 2000 election there was an issue with the some ballots in
FL. Florida wanted to recount some of the ballots but Bush argued
that it would violate those citizens 14th amendment right to the equal
protection clause.
No ballots were recounted. Bush won.
District of Dc passed laws on gun control.
Columbia (DC) v. Some citizens felt it violated their 2nd amendment rights. Supreme
Heller court agreed
Marbury v. In his last days in office, President Adams appointed several federal
Madison judges and justices of the peace to office. Marbury was one of the
 men.
When the new president Jefferson took office he told Marbury not to
submit the papers that allowed the jobs to be final.
The Supreme Court ruled in Marburys favor and also said it had the
power of judicial review (the power to decide whether certain laws
and government actions are unconstitutional).
Plessy V. Plessy (an African American male) sat in the all-white section of the
Ferguson railroad cart. He refused to move when told to do so b/c he felt it
violated his 14th amendment right to equal protection.
The Supreme Court Ruled that separate but equal was still equal.
Segregation is okay.
Brown v. Board African Americans and whites had to attend two different school.
of Education Schools were segregated. Brown felt this violated her 14 th
amendment right.
Supreme courts agreed. Schools were required to desegregate.
In re gault Gault was 15 years old when he was arrested for a crime. He was
denied due process b/c he was a juvenile.
The Supreme Court ruled in his favor b/c of rule of law. Everyone is
treated equal under the law regardless of age.

SS.7.C.2.8 POLITICAL PARTIES

1. Important Term:
Political Parties: an organization that tries to get political power by electing
members to public office so that their political ideas can become laws or policies
Party platform: a written statement of the goals of a political party
Candidate: a person running for political office
2. Explain the Core Beliefs of the following political Parties

Political Party Core Beliefs

Democratic Party The federal government should take a more active role in peoples
lives, especially those in need. Democrats sometimes support
raising taxes and government spending to pay for social programs.
Republican Party The federal government should take a less active role in peoples
lives and that individuals can take care of themselves without
government help. They sometimes support lowering taxes and
government spending..

SS.7.C.2.9 QUALIFICATIONS FOR POLITICAL OFFICES

Federal Elected Description of Qualifications
Office
PRESIDENT 1. Minimum age: 35 yrs old
2. Has to live in the US for at least ____14___years
3. Citizenship requirements: must be a natural born citizen
4. May not serve more than two __4___-year terms. Maximum years
of presidency:
8 years.
5. The vice president may become president if the president dies,
resigns, or is removed from office. The vice president, upon
becoming president, may be president for no more than 10 years
A Member of the U.S. 1. 25 years old
HOUSE OF 2. 7 years as a U.S. citizen
REPRESENTATIVES
 (U.S. 3. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives do not have to live
REPRESENTATIVE) in the district that they represent, but they must live in the state in
which their district is located. 4. No term limits; they can serve an
unlimited number of 2-year terms
A member of the U.S. 1. 30 years old
SENATE (U.S. 2. 9 years as a U.S. citizen
SENATOR) 3. Members of the U.S. Senate must live in the state that they
represent.
4. No term limits; they can serve an unlimited number of 6-year
terms

SS.7.C.2.10 MONITORING AND INFLUENCING THE GOVT

1. What are interest groups? a group of people who are concerned with a particular issue and
who try to influence legislators to act in their favor, also known as a special interest group
2. What are some methods used by interest groups to monitor and/or influence the
government?

a. They use their 1st amendment right to peaceable assembly, free speech, and petition to
monitor and influence the government.
b. Political Action Committees, which are often connected to interest groups, can raise
money and contribute to the campaigns of candidates that they support.
c. Interest groups can work with members of Congress or with other elected legislators to
get laws passed. This is usually referred to as lobbying.
3. Define lobbying. Participating in activities in order to influence government officials
4. What methods are used by the media to monitor and/or influence the government? The
media uses its first amendment right to freedom of the press. Examples: newspaper,
magazines, TV, radio, internet, social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc..)
5. How does the media impact the government? The media serves as a watchdog, keeping
an eye on the government and reporting on what the government does.
6. How do interest groups impact the government? These groups form to support a specific
issue and work in large numbers to get their issue recognized by the government. Also,
interest groups may hire lobbyists, who meet with lawmakers to try to get their support for
a bill that would benefit the issue the PAC supports.
7. How do individual citizens impact the government? By voting.
8. What is a major part of a democracy? Voting

SS.7.C.2.11 MEDIA AND POLITICAL COMMUNICATION

1. Define the following words:
Propaganda: - the method of spreading ideas or information for the purpose of helping or
injuring an institution, a cause, or a person
Biased: a preference, opinion or attitude that favors one way of thinking or feeling over
another
Symbolic/Symbolism: the use of something to represent ideas or qualities

2. Explain each of the follow techniques of propaganda:

Testimonials: usually involve celebrities or other respected people endorsing, officially

supporting, a product or idea.
Bandwagon: getting people to make a decision based on what everyone else is doing. along
with the crowd
Name-Calling: using negative words and bad names to create fear and dislike for people,
ideas, or institutions.
Glittering Generalities: the use of clever slogans that appeal to peoples emotions.
 Card Stacking: using facts and figures to show one side as positive and the other side as
negative.
Plain Folks: a technique designed to send the message that a product or person is just like
you.
Transfer: uses your feelings about one thing to get you to feel the same way about something
else.

SS.7.C.4.1 US DOMESTIC & FOREIGN POLICIES

1. Define the following terms:
a. Domestic policy: a governments decisions about issues within the country
b. Foreign policy: a governments decisions about relationships with other countries
c. Alliance: a union between nations for assistance and protection
d. Diplomacy: the work of keeping good relations between the governments of different
countries
e. Treaty: an agreement or arrangement between two or more countries
2. Provide some examples of domestic policies:
3. Provide some examples of foreign policies:
4. Who are the main leaders in charge of foreign policies? President and the Secretary of
State
5. Explain the 5 goals of foreign policies:

1. National security: keeping the US safe 2. Promoting Peace (creating relationships

and alliances with other nations)
3. Spreading democracy (talking with 4. Promoting international trade (buying
other nations about the benefits of a and selling of goods between countries)
democratic government)
5. Providing foreign aid (military, economic, and other types of help to countries in need)

6. Define the following terms:

a. ambassadors/diplomats- a person sent as the chief representative of his or her own
government in another country.
b. international relations - relationship between nations around the world
c. presidents cabinet- people appointed by the president to head executive departments
of government and act as official advisers to the president
7. Explain the main goal of domestic policies. To help and protect the people within the US
8. What does the country have to have in order for treaties to be ratified? 2/3 of the US
senate approval.

SS.7.C.4.2 PARTICIPATION IN INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

International
Organization
United Nations (UN)
North Atlantic Treaty
Organization (NATO)
Important Information
Created to keep peace around the world and develop
friendly relationship among nations. 193 nations
(governments) are members of the United Nations.
US is part of this organization
Individuals can donate money to the UN, apply for
internships with the UN or work for them directly
A group of 28 countries that have agreed to protect each
other in case of attack; they formed NATO to protect
themselves against the Soviet Union and its communist
allies.
Initially created to protect themselves from communism.

(international) Non-
Governmental Organization
(NGO)
North American Free Trade
Organization (NAFTA)
World Court/International
Court of Justice
World Health Organization
(WHO)
World Trade Organization
(WTO)
International Red Cross
(UNICEF) United Nations
Childrens Fund
It is a military and defense agreement among the
governments of member nations.
NGOs/INGOs are private organizations that work
independently from any government.
They do a variety of things: help people who are suffering,
help the poor, protect the environment, provide for basic
needs like food and water, or help communities to become
better places to live. They do not allow government
representatives to join their organizations.
Allows free trade among the United States, Canada, and
Mexico and has helped with trade, created jobs, and
encouraged the economic growth of its members.
The world court gives legal advice to the UN and deals
with international issues, such as a disagreement about
borders between countries.
Countries may become members by meeting the
requirements of the UN. Individuals may work or intern
with the world court
Is an organization within the United Nations that works to
improve health around the entire world.
To Supervise and set rules for international trade
The International Red Cross is an international
humanitarian organization with approximately 97 million
volunteers, members and staff. It was founded to protect
human life and health, to promote respect for all human
beings, and to help people who suffer because of war or
natural disasters.
UNICEF is a United Nations program that provides help
and care to mothers and children in poor nations. They
help with education, health, food, and other issues.

SS.7.C.4.3 US & INTERNATIONAL CONFLCIT

1. Explain the methods the US uses when dealing with international conflicts.
Declaring war
Diplomacy
Military invasion
Developing alliances with other nations
Joining international organizations such as NATO or UN
Increasing tariffs (taxes levied on imported or exported goods)
Isolation
Treaties

2. What specific powers does the Constitution grant to the President and Congress during
international conflicts?

CONGRESS
Power to declare war
Power to approve military spending
Sole power to ratify treaties
PRESIDENT
Commander in chief of the military
Power to create treaties
U.S. military troops into conflict or war-
like situations without a formal
declaration of war from Congress
 Power to raise an army/navy/military

3. Explain the reasons the U.S. became involved in past international conflicts.
Bay of Pigs Invasion (Cuba, 1961)
The Bay of Pigs is a small bay off the coast of Cuba in the Caribbean Sea. This
location was the site of an attempted invasion of Cuba by a group of people who
were against the dictator, Fidel Castro. This became known as the Bay of Pigs
Invasion. The United States led this attempted invasion in hopes of putting an end
to the threat of communism so close to the U.S. (Cuba is only 90 miles away from
the Florida Keys)

Cuban Missile Crisis (Cuba, 1962)

In 1962, tensions were high between communist and non-communist nations during
the Cuban Missile Crisis. The USSR (Soviet Russia) decided to put missiles in Cuba to
threaten the U.S. President Kennedy threatened military action and after a 13-day
political and military standoff, the tense situation ended and further conflict,
including war, was avoided.

Iran Hostage Crisis (Iran, 1979-1980)

In 1979, a group of Iranian students supporting the Iranian Revolution took over the
U.S. embassy in Tehran, Iran and held 66 U.S. citizen diplomats hostage for 444
days. During the Iranian Hostage Crisis President Carter said that the U.S. would
not yield to blackmail, which meant that the U.S. was not willing to use diplomacy
to secure the release of the hostages. After Ronald Reagan was elected president in
1980, diplomacy was used with Iran and the hostages were released on January 20,
1981, the day of President Reagans inauguration.

Terrorism (9/11/01)
On September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked (took by force) four airplanes in the U.S.
and flew them into the World Trade Center in New York City, NY and the Pentagon in
Virginia, near Washington, DC. Another plane crashed into a field in Pennsylvania.
Over 3,000 Americans lost their lives as a result of this attack.
The U.S. military and its NATO allies responded by invading the country with the
help of the Northern Alliance. Together, they took the Taliban out of power in
Afghanistan (The Northern Alliance is an Afghan group that fought against the
Taliban.) The battle to keep Afghanistans new government stable was still going on
as of 2014.

SS.7.C.3.1 FORMS OF GOVERNMENT

a. Direct Democracy
Definition Philosophy
The citizens themselves make the laws and Democracy is a form of government that
decide what actions the government will take. means rule by the people

b. Representative Democracy
Definition Philosophy
The people elect representatives to make the A representative democracy is also known as
laws on their behalf. a republic. In this form of government, a
country is governed by representatives
elected by the citizens. In a republic, all adult
citizens have the right to vote. The power of
the government is limited by a constitution.

c.
Definition
The government plays a major role in running
the economy, but private ownership is also
allowed and leaders may be elected by the
people.
Socialism
Philosophy
A socialist form of government takes an active
role in controlling the economy and protecting
the people from private businesses that might
take advantage of them.

d. Communism
Definition Philosophy
The government owns and runs all businesses Communism is a form of government in which
and makes all economic decisions. the government (in the name of the people)
controls the whole economy. Communist
countries are usually ruled by a strong
Communist dictator and the Communist
political party.

e. Monarchy
Definition Philosophy
The government is run by a king or queen who A monarchy is a form of government where
has the power by being born into the ruling power is held by one person who has been
family born into the ruling family. Monarchs may rule
for life. Many monarchs have constitutions
they must follow.

dictator - a military leader who becomes the

head of a country, often by force

f. Oligarchy
Definition Philosophy
The government is run by just a few people or An oligarchy is a form of government where a
a small group country is ruled by a small group of wealthy
people. In this form of government, the power
is held by the rich.

g. Autocracy
Definition Philosophy
The government is completely controlled by An autocracy is a form of government where
one person who can rule in any way he or she one leader has unlimited power. Examples of
wants. autocracies are dictatorships (such as a
military dictator) and absolute monarchies
(such as a king or queen who has all the
power with no constitution to limit their
power).
 h. Absolute Monarchy
Definition Philosophy
The government is run by one king or queen Same as Monarchy. Only difference is that the
with unlimited power. KING/QUEEN has complete control/power

SS.7.C.3.2 SYSTEMS OF GOVERNMENT

a. Parliamentary

Definition Example
A system of government where the power is in
the legislative body, and the leader of the
country is a part of the legislature. Citizens
indirectly elect officials through their
participation in political parties. (The people
choose the political party they like, and then
the party chooses its members who will serve
as representatives of the people).
Organizational Structure

Legislative body & Leader (Prime Minister)

People
Citizens vote for the political party they like best. The party that receives the majority of the
votes comes to power in the legislature, and the legislature elects the leader.
b. Federal

Definition Example
A system of government where the power is
shared between the central (national)
government and the states. Citizens elect
members of the legislative branch, the
executive branch, and some members of the
judicial branch.

Organizational Structure

Central Government States

The People

Power is shared and divided between the central government and the states. Citizens elect officials at all
levels of government

c. Confederal

Definition Example
A system of government where the power is
given to independent states. There is little or
no central (national) power. Citizens elect
members of the legislative branch, the
executive branch, and some members of the
judicial branch.
Organizational Structure

State State State

People People People

Independent states have their own powers. There is no central government. Citizens elect
officials of their own state for the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

d. Unitary

Definition Example
A system of government where almost all
power is given to the central (national)
government. The people do not have a role in
a unitary system of government because they
do not vote. Leaders of unitary governments
come to power either by birth or by force.

Organizational Structure

The People

The People
The People Central
Government

The central government has all of the power. The people do not participate in the selection of
leaders. The central government makes all decisions for the country.
SS.7.C.3.3 THREE BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT
1. Explain the difference between Separation of Powers and Checks & Balances.
c. Separation of Powers: divide the govt into three branches. Executive, judicial,
and legislative. Give each branch different but equal powers/roles in the govt
d. Checks and balances: divide the govt into three branches. Executive, judicial,
and legislative. Give each branch different but equal powers/roles in the govt.
Give each branch of govt the power to limit the other two branches if
they abuse their powers.
 2. Fill in the following chart of the different BRANCHES of government:

Branch of Who is in the branch of What is the basic power of this

Government government? branch of government?
Legislative Branch Congress: Create Laws
a. House of Representatives
b. US Senate
Executive Branch President and Vice President Enforce laws
Judicial Branch Courts/Judges Interpret laws

3. The US Constitution specifically explains each of the branches of government. Fill in the
chart of Articles 1-3 in the US Constitution:

Articles in the US Important Information

Constitution
Article I (one) Which branch of Government is described in this article of the US
Constitution?
__________Legislative_____________ Branch

____US Senate_______ ____US House of

Representatives

This branch of govt has the power to ____create____ laws.

Provide some examples of powers this branch of govt has.

1. The power to collect taxes

2. The power to coin money
3. The power to make laws on immigration
4. The power to make laws on trade
5. The power to create an army and navy
6. The power to impeach and remove officials from office
7. To approve presidential appointments

Article II (two) Which branch of Government is described in this article of the US

Constitution?
________Executive ________ Branch

_____President________ ____Vice
President__________

This branch of govt has the power to ____enforce______ laws.

Provide some examples of powers this branch of govt has

1. The power to enforce the laws (Chief Executive; he shall take

Care that the Laws be faithfully executed)
2. The power to send troops into combat (Commander in Chief;
The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and
 Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the several
States)
3. The power to make treaties with leaders of other nations
4. The power to nominate people to serve in the Cabinet, the
Supreme Court, and other high government positions
5. The power to grant pardons, except in cases of impeachment

Article III (three) Which branch of Government is described in this article of the US
Constitution?
_______Judicial ______ Branch

_______US Supreme Court__________

This branch of govt has the power to ____interpret____ laws.

Provide some examples of powers this branch of govt has.

The power of original jurisdiction (the power to be the first court
to hear a case) for cases that involve:
a. Ambassadors
b. Maritime (navy) issues
c. Arguments between two or more states
d. Problems that involve the United States government

2. All other cases not listed above come to the Court through their
appellate jurisdiction. (The Supreme Court hears a case that has
been heard by a lower court first.)

SS.7.C.3.4 FEDERALISM
4. Define Federalism. a system of government where power is shared between the central
(national) government and the states.

5. Fill in the following chart on Federalism:

Type of Powers Definition Example

Enumerated Powers are powers that are specifically 1. The power to raise and
Powers listed in the Constitution for the national support an army and navy
government only. 2. The power to coin money
3. The power to declare war
4. The power to regulate trade
and business
5.The power to establish rules
for naturalization of
immigrants

Delegated/Expres Same as enumerated
sed Powers
Concurrent Concurrent powers are powers that are
Powers shared by the national and state
governments.
Reserved Powers Reserved powers are powers that are
given to the states by the Tenth
Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This
amendment says that any power not
specifically given to the national
government is reserved for the states.
6. The power to declare war
Same as enumerated
1. The power to levy taxes
(tax the people)
2. The ability to borrow
money
1. The power to run elections
2. The power to set up and
run schools

6. Explain the 10th Amendment. The powers not delegated to the United States by the
Constitution, nor prohibited to it by the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or
to the people.
7. Explain the following terms:
a. Necessary and Proper Clause. the power of Congress to make laws that they need to
carry out their enumerated powers
b. Supremacy Clause. the clause that states that the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law
of the land, and that national laws are supreme over state laws, found in Article VI (six)

SS.7.C.3.5 AMENDMENT PROCESS

1. Explain what Article V (5) of the United States Constitution describes.
Two methods for proposing amendments and two methods for ratifying amendments. (See
questions 2 & 5 for detail)
2. Explain the sequences of the amendment process. (both methods)

Step 1: Proposal (two-ways) Step 2: Ratification (approval) by the

states (two ways)
1. Vote of two-thirds (2/3) of members 1. Three-Fourths (3/4) of all state
of both houses vote to propose the legislatures have voted on the
amendment. proposed amendment.
OR OR
2. A national convention is called by 2. Three-fourths (3/4) of the states join
two-thirds (2/3) of the state in ratifying conventions to vote on the
legislatures where they vote to proposed amendment (only the 21st
propose an amendment ( all but the amendment has been ratified like this)
21st amendment has been ratified by
this method).
3. Why did the founding fathers make the amendment process so difficult?
The Founding Fathers intentionally created a process that is rather difficult if the process
were too simple, the Constitution would change far more often than it should. If the
process were too rigid, the Constitution would be stuck in 1787, when the Constitution was
written. Keep in mind that once an amendment is added to the Constitution, it becomes a
part of it. No federal law or state law can go against that amendment because it is the
Constitution.
SS.7.C.3.8 STRUCTURE, FUNCTION, & PROCESS OF GOVERNMENT
1. How does a Bill become a law?
Condensed Version of the Bill process:
 1. Each House (House of Representatives and Senate) passes a bill or one house
passes a bill
2. Amendments are added to make the two bills identical/Amendments are added to
improve the bill.
3. House of Representatives and Senate vote on the revised bill.
4. President signs, vetoes, or ignores the bill
2. Who makes laws at the local, state, and federal level? What type or form of law can each
level pass?

Local: city commissioners, city council member, county commissioners, mayors.

These local government officials pass ordinances that govern the people who live in villages,
towns, cities and counties. Ordinance - a law enacted by a city or county affecting local affairs
such as traffic, noise, and animal control
State: State House of Representatives & State Senators which are called State Legislators.

State legislators work to create state laws, called statutes, which govern the people who live in
the state.
Federal: U.S. Representatives (House of Representatives/ based on population) and U.S.
Senators (two per state) which makes up Congress.

Congress enacts federal laws, called acts, which govern the people of the entire nation.

3. What level of government can pass ordinances, statues, and acts? Explain each type of
law.
a. Ordinances: a law enacted by a city or county affecting local affairs such as traffic,
noise, and animal control.
b. Statutes: a law enacted at the state level.
c. Acts: legislation which has passed both houses of Congress in identical form, been
signed into law by the president, or passed over his veto, therefore becoming law.
4. Explain the lawmaking process at the local, state, and federal level.
a. Local: It is the job of local governments to make communities better places to live. To
accomplish this job, local lawmaking bodies have the power to pass ordinances.
Ordinances are regulations that govern a local community. Ordinances may not conflict
with state laws, called statutes or federal laws, called acts. Local law enforcement
groups (like the police force or Sherriffs deputies) are in charge of enforcing both
ordinances and state statutes.
b. State: Bill is proposed by one of the state houses, a committee will research the bill and
decide if it will move forward & amendments will be made to the bill if needed, both
state houses will debate on the bill and vote on it, finally the bill must be approved by
both houses and the governor must sign it in order for the bill to become law.
c. Federal: See the bill process # 11.

SS.7.C.3.11 COURT SYSTEM

1. What is the order of Floridas courts from the lowest to highest authority? County court,
circuit court, district courts, and Florida Supreme Court.
2. Explain the cases each court level hears.
a. County Court: Handles misdemeanors or less serious crimes. Examples: traffic
violations, disturbing the peace, civil cases involving sums of money less than $1,000.
b. Circuit Courts: Handles more serious crimes like felonies and civil cases involving large
amounts of money (more than $1,000). Examples: murder, armed robbery, drug
trafficking, etc.
c. District Court of Appeals: reviews decisions made by trial courts. Panel of judges decide
by a majority vote; no jury.
 d. Florida Supreme Court: highest court in the state. It is responsible for reviewing the
decisions of appellate courts and to supervise all Florida courts. Also responsible for
interpreting the Florida Constitution.
3. If someone is found guilty in the court of law what are their options? Serve the time or
appeal their case.
4. Compare trial and appellate processes.
a. Process of a Criminal Trial
Deals with crimes. If people break a law they attend this court. People could face jail
time.
1. Step 1: Both the prosecution and the defense will give their opening statements
which tell the judge and the jury their side of the case. The prosecution always
represents the victim/state during a criminal trial and the defense always represents
the person being charged with the crime.
2. Step 2: Each side will then call witnesses to give testimony (or answers given under
oath) in the case. These witnesses will also be cross-examined by the other side.
3. Step 3: Once all of the witnesses have been questioned and crossed, the prosecution
and defense will offer their closing statements and ask the jury to rule in favor of their
side.
4. Step 4: The jury will be sent to deliberate (discuss) the evidence presented. Once
they reach a unanimous decision they will announce the verdict, or the outcome of the
case.
b. Process of a Civil Trial
Civil cases involve disputes between people or groups of people where no criminal laws
have been broken. When a civil case goes to court, it is called a lawsuit, which is a legal
action in which a person or group sues to collect damages (an award of money) for
some harm that is done. The plaintiff in a civil trial is the individual or group that files
the lawsuit and the defendant is the individual or group that is being sued. During a
civil trial (lawsuit), there are four general steps:
1. Cases begin when a complaint is filed (a formal statement naming those involved
and describing the nature of the lawsuit).
2. Once filed, a summons (a document telling the defendant that there is a lawsuit
against them and orders the defendant to appear in court) is sent by the court. A
defendant may respond to the suit in a pleading (complaint and answer together).
3. Next is the discovery process. Discovery is the name of the process in which lawyers
for the plaintiff and defendant check facts and gather evidence for the case.
4. Finally, the lawsuit will be heard before a judge or jury (if requested). The judge will
make a ruling based on the evidence and facts of the case. When no jury is present,
this ruling is called a summary judgment.
c. The Appellate Process
Appeals courts have appellate jurisdiction, which means that they can review the
rulings and decisions from lower courts if the people or groups involved believe the
court acted unfairly.
Appeals can occur if (1) the judge applied the law incorrectly, (2) the judge used the
wrong procedure, (3) new evidence turns up or (4) rights were violated. Depending
on the type of case, the evidence that is presented and the arguments from both
sides, appeals courts get to decide which cases they will hear and which cases they
will not hear. Appeals courts do not hold trials; instead they hear oral arguments
made by two sides the petitioner (the person who disagrees with the previous
ruling) and the respondent (the person who agrees with the previous ruling).
Once an appeals court hears the oral arguments, the judges may do one of three
things: (1) uphold original decisions, (2) reverse that decision (find in favor of the
petitioner), or (3) return the case to the lower court. Panels of three or more judges
review the record of the case being appealed and they make a decision by a
 majority vote. The appeals court decision is final unless it is appealed to the U.S.
Supreme Court. Appeals judges do not decide guilt or innocence, they decide if the
petitioners rights have been protected and whether or not they received a fair trial.
5. Explain the significance of the role of juries in the American Legal system.
As a juror, one is expected to listen to the facts of the case and review the evidence as
presented. From there, one is expected to deliberate (discuss the case) with fellow
jurors to determine the fate of a criminal trial or decision of a civil lawsuit. The U.S.
Constitution protects the right of every citizen to have a trial by a jury in criminal
cases.

SS.7.C.3.13 US & FL CONSTITUTIONS

1. What is a constitution? A written plan for government
2. Within a constitution, the __powers_ and ___responsibilities___ of government are listed,
the power of the government is __limited__ and ___rights___ of the people are
__protected__.

3. Explain the basic outline of the U.S. Constitution and Floridas Constitution.

United States Constitution Florida Constitution

Begins with we the people- shows
that the federal government gets its
power from the citizens.
Shorter than the FL Constitution
7 articles
1 Large page
Contains a Bill of Rights (enumerated
list of rights for the people)
27 amendments
Written as a living document to be
interpreted over time.
Contains a Supremacy Clause stating
the Constitution is the highest law of
the land.
Contains a preamble that lists the
purpose and goals
President: Executive branch
Begins with we the people shows
that the state government gets its
power from the citizens
Longer than the US Constitution
12 articles
80 pages
Contains the Florida Declaration of
Rights (enumerated list of the rights for
the people that includes many of the
same rights as those found in the U.S.
Bill of Rights)
Written as a living document to be
interpreted and changed. There are
many amendments to the Florida
Constitution that are very specific.
The Florida Constitution is a living
document that changes with the times.
Addresses public education, motor
vehicles, and elections
Deals with day-to-day issues that
impact state residents
Contains a preamble that lists the
purpose and goals.
Governor: Executive

4. What does the US Constitution and the Florida Constitution have in common?
Begins w/ we the people
Living document
Includes amendments
Includes/explains the rights of the citizens. Guarantees individual freedoms
Establishes 3 branches of govt
Both have a preamble
 5. What part of the Florida Constitution protects individuals rights? Florida Declaration of
Rights

6. What is the Supremacy Clause? States that the Constitution is the highest law of the land.

7. What is the Florida Declaration of Rights? enumerated list of the rights for the people that
includes many of the same rights as those found in the U.S. Bill of Rights

8. What is an amendment? A change to a document.

9. Why did some states create their own Constitution?

Because the US Constitution was a guideline and some states wanted things listed
specifically.
SS.7.C.3.14 GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS & SERVICES

Local Government Services State Government Federal Government

Local governments in Florida
are required to provide
services to their residents.
Because local governments
are the closest government
units to the people, they
provide more direct services
to the people compared with
the state and federal
government.
Examples of local services:
1. Building public schools
2. Creating local law
enforcement groups such as
city police officers and county
sheriffs deputies
3. Proving water treatment
services
4. Providing sewer and
garbage services
5. Providing electricity
6. Maintaining local parks and
recreation areas
7. Maintaining local and
county roads
8. Providing local cable,
internet, and phone services
9. Building public assistance
housing
10.Maintaining local airports,
harbors, and golf courses
Services
The Florida government is
required to provide services to
the residents of the state.
These services center on
public safety, law
enforcement, health services
and education.
Examples of state services:
1. Making laws for Florida
residents
2. Creating a department of
education that oversees
public education in Florida
3. Creating a state law
enforcement agency such as
the Florida Department of Law
Enforcement and Florida State
Troopers
4. Maintaining state roads
Services
The United States
government is required to
provide services to the
citizens of the nation. These
services center on national
safety, common defense, and
the general welfare.
Examples of national services
include:
1. Providing a military
2. Providing equal access to
health care
3. Providing medical and
housing assistance for the
elderly
4. Providing for a national
mail service (United States
Postal Service)
5. Maintaining national
highways
6. Providing economic support
and military assistance after
natural disasters

PRINCIPLES OF GOVERNMENT
Checks & Balances: divide the govt into three branches. Executive, judicial, and legislative. Give
each branch different but equal powers/roles in the govt. Give each branch of govt the
power to limit the other two branches if they abuse their powers.
Separation of Powers divide the govt into three branches. Executive, judicial, and legislative.
Give each branch different but equal powers/roles in the govt
Federalism: a system of government where power is shared between the central (national)
government and the states
Rule of Law: no one is above the law. The law applies to everyone.
Popular Sovereignty: Power of the government comes from the people.
Judicial Review: The judicial branch has the sole power and responsibility to review whether
actions are constitutional or unconstitutional.

NOTES TO
STUDY
Please excuse any error. See Mrs. Thomas if
you need more clarification on any of the
notes.