State Government and Citizenship — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. The state legislature is the group that writes and votes on new laws.
The state legislature is the lawmaking body, consisting of elected representatives who draft, debate, and vote on bills.
2. A bill becomes a law after the legislature passes it and the governor signs it.
Once the legislature passes a bill, the governor signs it into law (or vetoes it).
3. If the governor rejects a bill, it is called a veto.
A veto is when the governor formally rejects a bill passed by the legislature.
4. Judges in the judicial branch serve in state courts.
State courts are where judges of the judicial branch hear cases and interpret state laws.
5. Many state legislatures have two chambers: a senate and a house of representatives.
Most state legislatures are bicameral, with a senate and a house of representatives.
6. The state constitution is the highest law of the state.
Each state has its own constitution that establishes the structure of state government and the rights of citizens.
7. The governor can call a special session of the legislature for emergencies.
The governor has authority to call a special legislative session to address urgent matters.
8. State legislators are chosen by citizens through elections.
Citizens elect state legislators through democratic elections held on a regular schedule.
9. The executive branch also includes agencies that run state services like parks and schools.
The state executive branch oversees agencies that provide public services including schools, parks, and transportation.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Governor
→ Leads the executive branch
Makes and passes state laws
State legislature
→ Makes and passes state laws
Highest legal document in the state
State courts
→ Interprets laws and hears cases
Leads the executive branch
State constitution
→ Highest legal document in the state
Interprets laws and hears cases
Governor = leads executive branch; legislature = makes and passes laws; courts = interpret laws; constitution = highest legal document.