5th Grade Civics & Government — The Three Branches — How Our Government Works
Students will learn about Congress, including the Senate and House of Representatives, and understand how laws are made.
The Legislative Branch is made up of Congress, which has two parts: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Together, they are responsible for making the laws that govern our nation.
The Senate has 100 members — two from each of the 50 states. Senators serve six-year terms. The Senate was designed to be a thoughtful, deliberate body where each state has an equal voice.
The House of Representatives has 435 members. The number of representatives from each state depends on how many people live there. Representatives serve two-year terms and are meant to be close to the people they represent.
When someone in Congress has an idea for a new law, it is written as a 'bill.' The bill must be debated and voted on by both the House and the Senate. If both agree, it goes to the President to be signed into law.
The Founders created two chambers of Congress on purpose. This way, laws must be carefully considered by different groups of people before they take effect. It prevents hasty or unfair laws from being passed.
Congress also has the power to set taxes, declare war, approve the national budget, and approve the President's appointments. These are important responsibilities that affect every American.
Pretend you are a member of Congress. Write a short bill about something you think would make your community better. Give your bill a title and explain what it would do.