The Three Branches of Government

Have students read the short text first and mark the verb that names each job. Then complete the diagram or card sort and check the placements against the answer key.

Fill in a diagram of the three branches, then answer questions on the veto and the Cabinet. The directions on the page read: Read the text. Write a word or phrase from the word bank in each box of the diagram. Then answer the questions on page 2. An answer key is included.

Yes, both. We made it for 6th Grade Three Branches and Checks, and the page works the same whether it lands on a kitchen table or a center rotation. At home, most families go through it together and talk the answers out loud, and that talking is where most of the learning happens with the three branches. In class it runs well as independent work while you pull a small group. Print one copy or thirty, whichever the day needs.

The legislative branch, Congress, makes the laws. Congress has two parts, the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Congress makes laws, sets taxes and can declare war. The president signs or vetoes bills and commands the military. The courts hear cases and interpret laws. Sort the Powers by Branch has students place 12 of these powers.

The president leads the federal government, a governor leads a state, and a mayor usually leads a city. Federal, State and Local Government has students write in each leader after sorting the services.