In this unit, you learned about the structure and functions of the three branches of the
federal government. Identify these branches, and describe some of their powers, as
granted by the U.S. Constitution. What are some ways that each branch can perform
checks on the powers of other branches? Why do you think this important? What do
you think might happen if one branch of government was granted too much power over
others? Explain your response.
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Executive branch is the presidents office. They have the power to Carry out and enforce laws. This branch consists of President, Vice President and the Cabinet.

Judicial branch is called the court system, The courts review laws. The courts explain laws. The courts decide if a law goes against the Constitution.

Legislative branch drafts proposed laws, confirms or rejects presidential nominations for heads of federal agencies, federal judges, and the Supreme Court, and has the authority to declare war.

The legislative branch makes laws, but the President in the executive branch can veto those laws with a Presidential Veto.

The legislative branch makes laws, but the judicial branch can declare those laws unconstitutional.

The executive branch, through the Federal agencies, has responsibility for day-to-day enforcement and administration of Federal laws. These Federal departments and agencies have missions and responsibilities that vary widely, from environmental protection to protecting the Nation’s borders.

The President in the executive branch can veto a law, but the legislative branch can override that veto with enough votes.

The legislative branch has the power to approve Presidential nominations, control the budget, and can impeach the President and remove him or her from office.

The executive branch can declare Executive Orders, which are like proclamations that carry the force of law, but the judicial branch can declare those acts unconstitutional.

The judicial branch interprets laws, but the President nominates Supreme Court justices, court of appeals judges, and district court judges who make the evaluations.

The judicial branch interprets laws, but the Senate in the legislative branch confirms the President’s nominations for judicial positions, and Congress can impeach any of those judges and remove them from office.

It is important to keep these checks and balances because they are able to keep each other in line and working for the law not their pocketbooks.

If one branch was given too much power the entire system would not work and could possibly fall apart. It is set up this way for a reason and that reason is because it works and functions for the benefit of the people.