Define what a constitution is, and compare and contrast the structures of written and unwritten constitutions.

What will be an ideal response?


A constitution presents the fundamental principles of a government and establishes the basic structures and procedures by which the government operates to fulfill those principles. Constitutions may be written or unwritten. An unwritten constitution, such as that of Great Britain, is a collection of written laws approved by a legislative body and unwritten common laws established by judges based on custom, culture, habit, and previous judicial decision. In contrast, a written constitution, such as the Constitution of the United States, is one specific document supplemented by judicial interpretations that clarify its meaning.

Political Science

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A law prohibiting a newspaper from publishing a story exposing military secrets is an example of what kind of law?

a. violation of free speech – b. prior restraint c. content-based d. civil

Political Science

Which type of media, with its immediacy, visual imagery, and drama, has an emotional impact that cuts across age groups, educational levels, social classes, and races?

a. newspapers b. newsmagazines c. the Internet d. television

Political Science

If, by choosing to vote, the Speaker of the House creates a tie, _____.

A. voting will take place again B. the president pro tempore will be asked to cast a vote C. the Speaker's vote will be considered invalid D. whips will decide how to break the tie E. the proposal will be defeated

Political Science

What was the decision in the case of Roe v. Wade?

A. It upheld the right of couples to use birth control devices. B. It upheld the right of gay Americans to consenting sexual relationships. C. It denied the right of gay Americans to consenting sexual relationships. D. It upheld the right of women to have abortions. E. It ruled that state laws criminalizing adultery were unconstitutional.

Political Science