SEVEN DEMOCRATIC IDEALS OF THE CONSTITUTION 8 th

SEVEN DEMOCRATIC IDEALS OF THE CONSTITUTION 8 th Grade Social Studies

WHAT ARE THE 7 DEMOCRATIC IDEALS? Seven basic ideas that the CONSTITUTION is based on What is the Constitution? Blueprint for our government Laws to live by These MUST be protected for our government to work

POPULAR SOVEREIGNTY Definition— A government in which the people rule. Gov’t Example Eligible citizens can vote Citizens can run for office. Anyone can suggest laws.

REPUBLICANISM Definition— The people exercise their power by voting for their political representatives. Gov’t Example Voting for elected officials. The 2016 Presidential Election Review

FEDERALISM Definition— The power is divided between a central (federal) government and state government. Gov’t Example National Gov’t: Declares War, Coins money, Regulates Post Office State Gov’t: Runs schools, elections, local governments. Review

SEPARATION OF POWERS Definition— The basic government roles are divided into three branches. Gov’t Example 3 Branches Legislative, Judicial, and Executive

CHECKS & BALANCES Definition— Each branch of government can exercise checks, or control, over the other. Gov’t Example President can veto Congress can Impeach President appoints Supreme Court Review

LIMITED GOVERNMENT Definition— Everyone, citizens & leaders, must obey the law. Gov’t Example Government cannot take away certain rights. Speech, Religion, Press, Voting

INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS Definition— The Bill of Rights guarantees personal liberties and privileges. Gov’t Example Citizens have rights that cannot be taken away. Speech, Religion, Press, Voting

VIDEO REVIEW Link

SEVEN DEMOCRATIC IDEALS Popular Sovereignty Power to the people Republicanism Voters choose representatives Federalism States & federal government divide power Separation of Powers are divided between three branches Checks & Balances Branches’ power is balanced Limited Government Everyone obeys the law Individual Rights Government protects citizens’ rights