Learn on PengiPengi Social Studies (Grade 5)Chapter 7: A New Nation and Government

How Government Works (Federalism)

In this Grade 5 Pengi Social Studies lesson from Chapter 7: A New Nation and Government, students learn how federalism divides power between the national and state governments. The lesson covers the goals of the Preamble to the Constitution, beginning with "We the People," and introduces the three branches of government: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.

Section 1

The Preamble and Federalism

The Constitution begins with the Preamble, starting with the famous words, "We the People." This means the government's power comes from the citizens, not a king.

The system is built on Federalism. This is the sharing of power between the National (Federal) government and the State governments.

For example, the Federal government handles war and money, while States handle schools and local laws. This sharing prevents any single level of government from having total control.

Section 2

The Three Branches of Government

To further limit power, the Constitution separates the government into three distinct branches.

The Legislative Branch (Congress) makes the laws. The Executive Branch (President) enforces the laws. The Judicial Branch (Supreme Court) interprets the laws.

This structure, known as Separation of Powers, ensures that no single person or group can do everything.

Lesson overview

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Section 1

The Preamble and Federalism

The Constitution begins with the Preamble, starting with the famous words, "We the People." This means the government's power comes from the citizens, not a king.

The system is built on Federalism. This is the sharing of power between the National (Federal) government and the State governments.

For example, the Federal government handles war and money, while States handle schools and local laws. This sharing prevents any single level of government from having total control.

Section 2

The Three Branches of Government

To further limit power, the Constitution separates the government into three distinct branches.

The Legislative Branch (Congress) makes the laws. The Executive Branch (President) enforces the laws. The Judicial Branch (Supreme Court) interprets the laws.

This structure, known as Separation of Powers, ensures that no single person or group can do everything.