Lesson 12: How does the Constitution limit the powers of our government?

Terms

balancing powers  Balancing the powers of government means that no one branch is given so much power that it can completely control the other branches.

executive power  The authority to carry out and enforce the law.

judicial power  The authority to settle disagreements about laws. This includes the power to say what the laws mean.

legislative power  The authority to make laws and rules.

separation of powers  The division of powers among the different branches of States, powers are divided among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

United States Supreme Court  The highest court in the United States.