Legislative Branch 

Learning Objectives


1.  Identify and explain the organization of the Legislature
2.  Identify and provide an example of the powers of the Legislature, both formal and informal.
3.  Identify and explain how Congress shares powers with the Executive, Judiciary, and bureaucracy.
4.  Discuss the implications of Congress sharing powers with each of the following: Executive, Judiciary, and bureaucracy.
5.  Discuss the functions that Congress performs.
6.  Identify how the power of the Congress has/may evolve gradually.
7.  Identify how the power of the Congress has/may changes dramatically as a result of crisis.
8.  Identify and discuss the ties between the Congress and political parties.
9.  Identify and discuss the ties between the Congress and interest groups.
10. Identify and discuss the ties between the Congress and media.
11. Identify and discuss the ties between the Congress and state and local governments.

Vocabulary

Bicameral
Apportionment
Reapportionment
Redistricting
Gerrymandering
Incumbency
Casework
Open seat
appropriations
Seniority system
Standing committee
Select committee
Joint committee
Conference committee
Caucuses
Trustee
Constituent servant (delegate)
Oversight
House Rules Committee
House Ways & Means Committee
Filibuster
Cloture
Pork barrel
Earmarks
Logrolling
Riders


Chapter Reading Notes


Chapter 11 Notes

Legislative Branch in the News

Lectures & Videos

Activities & Assignments

Legislative Branch Notes
Standard Deviants Video Notetaking Guide doc
Congressional Leadership Webquest doc
Countable: Learn status of legislation & how your representatives are voting
Secret Service Hearing Spotlights Chaffetz’s Chairmanship Hopes
Opposing John Boehner for Speaker Could Come With Repercussions
If Obama Acts Alone on Immigration, House Judiciary Chairman Vows Court Challenge

Criticisms of Congress doc
Gridlock & Separation of Powers

Congressional Oversight in Action
House Leadership Elections
Senate Rules & Procedures
Redistricting Process