Why is separation of powers within a government important for protecting freedom? How does the United States Constitution organize the nation's governing bodies in order to ensure powers are limited and balanced? This video illustrates the designated powers of the three branches of government in the US, utilizing quotes from the founding fathers and key historical documents to in order to explain the principle of separation of powers.

Concepts

the separation of powers, checks and balances, james madison, united states presidents, the three branches of government, the united states constitution

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Additional Tags

three branches of government, james madison, separation of powers, us constitution, social studies

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Classroom Considerations

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Video offers specific examples of powers within each branch of government
• Viewing guide includes pre-assessment questions, guided notes, and follow-up assessment questions

Cons

• Instructor may need to front-load vocabulary and some concepts before presenting video
• Speaker moves very quickly through presenation

Common Core

RI.9-10.9 RI.11-12.9 RH.9-10.1 RH.9-10.2 RH.9-10.4 RH.11-12.1 RH.11-12.2 RH.11-12.4