Three Branches of Government

In this unit, 3rd grade students will learn and understand the powers of each branch of government and why they are necessary for democracy.

Lesson Objective:

-Students will to identify the three branches of government

-Students will create a template explaining the powers of each branch of government

-Students will list who/what makes up each branch

What is the Legislative Branch?

-In charge of making the laws, declares wars, and controls taxing and spending policies.

-Made up of the House of Representatives and the Senate; which is known as Congress

What is the Executive Branch?

-Carries out and enforces laws

-It is made up of the president, Vice President, and the cabinet

What is the Judicial Branch?

-In charge of deciding the meaning of laws, how to apply them to real situations, and whether a law breaks the rules of the constitution.

-The U.S. Supreme Court is the highest court in the U.S. and is the largest part of the judicial branch

Start at 5:20 for quiz

Discussion:

1. What is the main purpose of the Legislative Branch?
2. Who/what makes up the Legislative Branch?
3. What is the main purpose of the Executive Branch?

Homework Assignment Questions

1. Who/what makes up the Executive Branch?
2. What is the main purpose of the Judicial Branch?
3. Who/what makes up the Judicial Branch?