Da VIP Academy / GED / Social Studies / Civics & Government
The Three Branches
Match powers and duties to the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
How it works
Who does what
Congress (legislative) writes laws, taxes, and declares war. The president (executive) enforces laws, commands the military, and makes treaties and appointments. Courts (judicial) interpret laws and settle disputes.
How a bill becomes law
Introduced in the House or Senate → committee → floor vote in both chambers → president signs or vetoes → Congress may override with two-thirds of both chambers.
Worked examples
The Senate confirms a federal judge. Which branches are involved?
- The president nominates (executive).
- The Senate confirms (legislative).
- The judge serves in the judicial branch.
Words to know
- Judicial review
- Courts' power to decide whether a law is constitutional.
Test-day tips
- • Legislative = make, executive = enforce, judicial = interpret.