1.
A unitary system is a way of organizing government so that
Correct Answer
A. All power resides in a central government
Explanation
In a unitary system, all power is concentrated in a central government. This means that the central government has the authority to make decisions and enforce laws that apply to the entire country. There may be local or regional governments, but they derive their power from the central government and can be overruled or abolished by it. This type of system contrasts with a federal system, where power is divided between a central government and regional governments, each having their own areas of authority.
2.
The United States began as a (n)
Correct Answer
A. Confederation
Explanation
The United States began as a confederation, which means that it was initially a loose alliance of independent states with a weak central government. This allowed the individual states to maintain a significant amount of power and autonomy. However, over time, the central government gradually gained strength and authority, leading to the development of a federalist nation where power is shared between the federal government and the states.
3.
The Supremacy Clause of the Constitution states that all of the following are the supreme law of the land, EXCEPT
Correct Answer
C. State constitutions
Explanation
The Supremacy Clause of the Constitution establishes that the Constitution itself, laws of the national government (when consistent with the Constitution), and treaties of the national government (when consistent with the Constitution) are all considered the supreme law of the land. However, state constitutions are not included in this list. This means that state constitutions are not considered to be supreme over federal law and must comply with the Constitution and federal laws. Therefore, the correct answer is state constitutions.
4.
The principle that the national government has certain implied powers that go beyond its enumerated powers was first elaborated in the Supreme Court's decision in
Correct Answer
D. McCulloch v Maryland
Explanation
In the case of McCulloch v Maryland, the Supreme Court established the principle of implied powers for the national government. The case involved a dispute over the constitutionality of a Maryland law that imposed a tax on the Bank of the United States. The Court ruled that the national government had the authority to create a national bank, even though it was not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution. This decision expanded the powers of the national government beyond its enumerated powers and set a precedent for future cases involving implied powers.
5.
Which of the following federal policies exemplifies the implied powers of Congress?
Correct Answer
A. Environmental protection law
Explanation
The implied powers of Congress refer to powers that are not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are necessary and proper to carry out its enumerated powers. The environmental protection law exemplifies the implied powers of Congress because it is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, but Congress has the authority to regulate and protect the environment in order to fulfill its enumerated power to regulate interstate commerce.
6.
The Supreme Court case of Gibbons v Ogden?
Correct Answer
C. Defined commerce as virtually every form of commercial activity
Explanation
The correct answer is "defined commerce as virtually every form of commercial activity." In the Supreme Court case of Gibbons v Ogden, the Court ruled that Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, and that commerce includes virtually every form of commercial activity. This decision expanded the power of the federal government to regulate economic activities between states.
7.
A tution difference between in-state and out-of-state students is an example of
Correct Answer
D. An example of an exception to the privileges and immunities clause
Explanation
The tuition difference between in-state and out-of-state students is an example of an exception to the privileges and immunities clause. The privileges and immunities clause in the Constitution states that citizens of one state should be treated equally to citizens of another state. However, in the case of tuition, out-of-state students are often charged higher rates than in-state students, which is an exception to this clause. This difference in treatment is justified by the fact that in-state students and their families contribute to the state's tax base, while out-of-state students do not. Therefore, the exception allows states to prioritize their own residents when it comes to tuition rates.
8.
The constitutional requirement that the states return a person charged with a crime in another state to that state for trial or imprisonment is known as
Correct Answer
B. Extradition
Explanation
Extradition is the correct answer because it refers to the constitutional requirement for states to return a person charged with a crime in another state to that state for trial or imprisonment. This process ensures that individuals cannot evade justice by crossing state borders and promotes cooperation between states in the enforcement of criminal laws.
9.
In ____________ federalism, the powers and policy assignments of different levels of government are like a marble cake, with mingled responsibilities and blurred distinctions between layers of government.
Correct Answer
D. Cooperative
Explanation
Cooperative federalism refers to a system in which powers and policy assignments of different levels of government are intertwined, creating a blended and blurred distinction between layers of government. This means that responsibilities and decision-making are shared between the federal and state governments, with both working together to address issues and implement policies. This cooperative approach allows for collaboration and coordination between the different levels of government, leading to a more integrated and cohesive governance system.
10.
Programs such as Medicaid and Aid for Families with Dependent Children, where applicants automatically qualify for aid if they meet the requirements, are examples of
Correct Answer
C. Formula grants
Explanation
Programs such as Medicaid and Aid for Families with Dependent Children, where applicants automatically qualify for aid if they meet the requirements, are examples of formula grants. Formula grants are a type of federal assistance where funds are allocated to states or local governments based on a predetermined formula. The formula takes into account factors such as population size, poverty rates, or other specific criteria. This ensures that funds are distributed fairly and proportionally among different jurisdictions.
11.
A broad program for community development would most likely be supported through a (n)
Correct Answer
E. Block grant
Explanation
A block grant is a type of grant that provides funds to local governments or organizations to support a broad program for community development. Unlike categorical grants, which are specific and limited in their purpose, block grants offer more flexibility in how the funds can be used. This allows for a comprehensive approach to community development, addressing multiple needs and initiatives within a community. Therefore, a block grant would be the most suitable option to support a broad program for community development.
12.
What are mandates?
Correct Answer
A. Requirements that direct states or local governments to comply with federal rules under threat of penalties or as a condition of receipt of a federal grant
Explanation
Mandates refer to requirements that direct states or local governments to comply with federal rules under the threat of penalties or as a condition of receiving a federal grant. This means that if states or local governments do not adhere to these federal rules, they may face consequences such as penalties or the loss of federal funding. Mandates are a way for the federal government to ensure that states and local governments follow certain guidelines and regulations in order to receive federal support.
13.
The word federalism is absent from the Constitution.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because the word "federalism" is indeed absent from the Constitution. Although the concept of federalism is a fundamental principle of the US Constitution, the actual term "federalism" is not explicitly mentioned in the document. Instead, the Constitution outlines the division of powers between the federal government and the states, establishing a system of federalism without specifically using the word.