Branches of Government — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
The legislative branch enforces the laws of the country.
Corrected: The legislative branch makes the laws of the country.
In Grade 5 civics, the legislative branch makes laws, while the executive branch enforces them.
2. Fix the sentence:
The judicial branch writes new laws for the nation.
Corrected: The judicial branch interprets the laws of the nation.
Grade 5 students learn that the judicial branch interprets laws and decides what they mean.
3. Fix the sentence:
The executive branch decides if laws are fair in court.
Corrected: The executive branch enforces and carries out the laws.
At Grade 5 level, the executive branch enforces laws while the judicial branch decides if they are fair.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. The legislative branch makes the laws of the United States.
Grade 5 learners know the legislative branch is in charge of making laws.
2. The executive branch enforces the laws and is led by the President.
In Grade 5 civics, the executive branch enforces laws under the President's leadership.
3. The judicial branch interprets laws and includes the Supreme Court.
Grade 5 students learn the judicial branch interprets laws through the courts.
4. The three branches of government share power and balance each other.
At Grade 5, students learn government has three branches that share power.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Name the three branches of government and tell what each one does.
Sample answer: The three branches are legislative, executive, and judicial. The legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch enforces laws, and the judicial branch interprets laws.
Grade 5 students should know the names and main duties of all three branches.
2. Why do you think the writers of the Constitution created three branches instead of one?
Sample answer: They wanted to stop one person or group from having too much power. With three branches, each one can check the others so the government stays fair.
Grade 5 civics emphasizes that separation of powers protects citizens from unfair rule.