In Part 1 of this Study Pack, students review content related to questions 16–17 of the US civics test. This section explores how the US government is organized under the Constitution. Tasks include a vocabulary preview, a video, comprehension questions, and a speaking assessment. Students use all four skills.

The 3 Branches of Government

Part 2 of this pack relates to questions 18–23 of the US civics test. This section focuses on how Congress makes laws. Visuals help students learn about the parts and powers of the legislative branch. The final question relies on the student to do a little research about their own state.

Congress – The Legislative Branch

In Part 3, students learn how to answer question 24–26 of the US civics test. This section focuses on how people in every district get a voice in government. Lise offers a study tip for remembering the difference between the Senate and the House of Representatives. 

The House of Representatives – The People's Voice

Part 4 of this Study Pack covers questions 27–28 of the US civics test. This portion focuses on the Senate, one of the most important components that the Founders wrote into the Constitution. Students learn about the Great Compromise.

Representation & Equality – The Senate's Role

In this final part of the pack, students learn how to answer questions 29–30 of the US civics test. This section focuses on how power is balanced between state and federal governments. Students learn about checks and balances.

Leadership & Balance in Government

Parts 1–5 (Full Video)

System of Government 1

Students learn how the US government is organized and what makes its system of power unique. Video lessons describe the three branches of government, how the Constitution divides and balances power, and how federal and state governments work together. In addition to watching and learning from five video lessons, students review and practice vocabulary and questions 16–30 of the US civics test. Test tips are included.