1.
Nonelected officials of an organization or department
Correct Answer
A. Bureaucracy
Explanation
Bureaucracy refers to the nonelected officials of an organization or department. These officials are typically responsible for the day-to-day operations and administration of the organization. They are appointed based on their expertise and qualifications rather than being elected by the public. Bureaucrats play a crucial role in implementing policies, managing resources, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the organization. They are often involved in decision-making processes and provide support and guidance to elected officials. The term "bureaucracy" is commonly used to describe the administrative structure and processes within government agencies, but it can also be applicable to other types of organizations.
2.
Carries out new legislation
Correct Answer
D. Executive Branch
Explanation
The executive branch is responsible for carrying out new legislation. This branch of government is headed by the president and includes various departments and agencies that are responsible for implementing and enforcing laws passed by Congress. The executive branch plays a crucial role in the lawmaking process by ensuring that new legislation is effectively implemented and enforced throughout the country.
3.
A legislature consisting of two parts
Correct Answer
D. Bicameral
Explanation
A legislature consisting of two parts is referred to as bicameral. This means that it is composed of two separate chambers or houses, typically with different functions and powers. This system allows for a checks and balances mechanism, as both chambers must agree on proposed legislation before it can become law. Bicameral legislatures are commonly found in democratic countries, such as the United States, where the two chambers are the House of Representatives and the Senate.
4.
The Amendment that gives reserved powers to the states
Correct Answer
B. 10th Amendment
Explanation
The 10th Amendment of the United States Constitution gives reserved powers to the states. This means that any powers that are not specifically granted to the federal government are reserved for the states. It is a part of the Bill of Rights and was added to ensure a balance of power between the federal government and the states. This amendment reinforces the principle of federalism, which is the division of power between the national government and the states.
5.
A rule or law made by a city government
Correct Answer
C. Ordinance
Explanation
An ordinance refers to a rule or law that is established and enforced by a city government. It is a local legislation that is specific to a particular city or municipality. Ordinances are typically created to regulate various aspects of city life, such as zoning, noise control, parking regulations, and business licensing. They are designed to address the specific needs and concerns of the local community and are enforced by local authorities.
6.
Powers NOT specifically stated in the US Constitution
Correct Answer
C. Implied
Explanation
Implied powers are powers that are not specifically stated in the US Constitution but are necessary and proper for carrying out the expressed powers. These powers are derived from the elastic clause, also known as the necessary and proper clause, which gives Congress the authority to make all laws that are necessary and proper for carrying out its responsibilities. Implied powers allow the government to adapt and respond to changing circumstances and needs, ensuring that it can effectively govern and fulfill its duties as outlined in the Constitution.
7.
Judical Review is the ability of the Supreme Court to decide if
Correct Answer
B. Laws are constitutional
Explanation
Judicial Review is the ability of the Supreme Court to decide if laws are constitutional. This means that the Supreme Court has the power to review and determine whether laws passed by the legislative branch are in accordance with the Constitution. If a law is found to be unconstitutional, the Supreme Court can declare it null and void. This power ensures that laws are in line with the principles and provisions of the Constitution, protecting individual rights and maintaining the balance of power between the branches of government.
8.
What is the term for a complex system with many departments and rules?
Correct Answer
A. Bureaucracy
Explanation
A complex system with many departments and rules is referred to as bureaucracy. Bureaucracy typically involves a hierarchical structure, where decisions are made by a few individuals at the top and implemented by numerous departments and employees. It is characterized by a rigid set of rules and procedures that govern the organization's operations. Bureaucratic systems are often found in large government entities, corporations, and organizations where efficiency, control, and adherence to rules are prioritized.
9.
What keeps one branch of government from becoming too powerful?
Correct Answer
D. Checks and Balances
Explanation
Checks and Balances is the correct answer because it refers to the system in which each branch of government has the ability to limit the power of the other branches. This ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful and prevents any one branch from dominating the others. By allowing each branch to have some control over the actions of the other branches, it helps maintain a balance of power and prevents any branch from becoming too powerful and potentially abusing its authority.
10.
The type of jurisdiction a district court has
Correct Answer
C. Original Jurisdiction
Explanation
Original jurisdiction refers to the authority of a court to hear a case for the first time. In the context of a district court, this means that it has the power to hear and decide cases that are brought before it initially, rather than on appeal from a lower court. This type of jurisdiction allows district courts to handle a wide range of cases, including both civil and criminal matters, and is an important aspect of the judicial system's structure.
11.
Appellate jurisdiction belongs to the
Correct Answer
B. U.S. Court of Appeals
Explanation
Appellate jurisdiction refers to the authority of a higher court to review and revise decisions made by lower courts. In this case, the correct answer is U.S. Court of Appeals because it is the intermediate appellate court in the federal judicial system, sitting above the U.S. District Courts and below the Supreme Court. The U.S. Court of Appeals has the power to review decisions made by the District Courts and has the final say on most federal cases.
12.
The Supreme Court hears only some cases for the first time. This is called
Correct Answer
C. Limited Original Jurisdiction
Explanation
Limited original jurisdiction refers to the authority of a court to hear certain types of cases for the first time. This means that the Supreme Court has the power to directly hear and decide specific types of cases, such as disputes between states or cases involving ambassadors, public ministers, or consuls. However, the majority of cases that the Supreme Court hears are appeals from lower courts, which falls under its appellate jurisdiction. Therefore, the correct answer is limited original jurisdiction.
13.
What are the General District Courts?
Correct Answer
A. A trial court
Explanation
General District Courts are trial courts that handle a wide range of civil and criminal cases. They are the first level of the court system where cases are initially heard and decided. These courts have jurisdiction over various matters, including traffic violations, small claims, misdemeanors, and preliminary hearings for felony cases. General District Courts are responsible for conducting trials, considering evidence, and making judgments based on the facts presented. They are essential in ensuring access to justice at the local level and play a crucial role in the judicial system.
14.
How is the Judicial Branch Organized?
Correct Answer
D. A dual court system
Explanation
A dual court system refers to a system where there are two separate court systems, one at the federal level and one at the state level. This system allows for both federal and state courts to exist and operate independently, with each having its own jurisdiction and authority. The federal court system handles cases that fall under federal law, while the state court system handles cases that fall under state law. This division of power ensures a balance between federal and state authority and allows for a more efficient and effective administration of justice.
15.
The approval of appointed judges and officials is a check of
Correct Answer
C. The legislative branch on the executive branch
Explanation
The approval of appointed judges and officials by the legislative branch is a check on the executive branch. This means that the legislative branch has the power to review and approve or reject the appointments made by the executive branch. This check ensures that the executive branch does not have complete control over the judiciary and that the appointments are made in a fair and unbiased manner. It also helps to maintain a system of checks and balances within the government, preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful.