Branches of Government — Answer Key
Part A: Multiple Choice
Circle the best answer for each question.
1. Congress passes a new bill about clean water rules. Which branch is acting?
A) Legislative branch
B) Executive branch
C) Judicial branch
D) State branch
Grade 5 students learn that Congress passing a bill is a legislative action.
2. The President refuses to sign a bill and sends it back to Congress. What is this action called?
A) An override
B) A veto
C) An impeachment
D) A ruling
At Grade 5, students learn that rejecting a bill is called a veto.
3. The Supreme Court rules that a state law goes against the Constitution. Which branch made this decision?
A) Legislative branch
B) Executive branch
C) Judicial branch
D) Local branch
Grade 5 civics shows Supreme Court rulings are judicial branch actions.
4. Congress votes 2/3 in both chambers to pass a bill the President vetoed. What just happened?
A) Impeachment
B) Judicial review
C) An override of the veto
D) A treaty approval
At Grade 5, students learn this is an override, a check on the President.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the correct answer on each line.
1. When the Supreme Court strikes down a law, it is using the power of judicial review.
Grade 5 students learn judicial review is how the Court limits other branches.
2. If the House of Representatives charges the President with wrongdoing, the President has been impeached.
At Grade 5, students learn impeachment begins in the House of Representatives.
3. When Congress writes and passes a new tax law, it is using its legislative power.
Grade 5 civics shows passing laws is a legislative power of Congress.
4. When the President signs an order to enforce immigration rules, the executive branch is acting.
At Grade 5, students learn executive orders are actions of the executive branch.
5. The three branches work together but stay separate to keep a fair government.
Grade 5 students learn separation of powers helps create a fair government.