Separation of powers

High school (ages 12+)
People & Society

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/separation-of-powers

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the core governmental functions?Law-making (legislative), adjudication (judicial), and execution (executive)
2. What is the philosophical originator?Baron de Montesquieu, in 'The Spirit of the Laws'
3. What are the three superpowers of the government?The government has three superpowers: the Legislative branch makes laws, the Executive branch enforces them, and the Judicial branch interprets and applies the laws.
4. Why do we need to separate these powers?Separating the powers stops one group from having too much control, protects our freedom, and keeps the government fair and accountable.

Trias Politica: The classical division of government into legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
Tyranny: Cruel and oppressive government or rule, often resulting from unchecked power.
Constitutionalism: The adherence to a system of government defined by a constitution that limits power.
Administrative Agencies: Government bodies that often combine rule-making, enforcement, and adjudicatory functions.