The purpose of the project is to provide students an opportunity to discuss a key political science concept and to show a basic understanding of academic research and reporting skills. The project consists of producing an essay of at least 800 words on the topics below, as well as a works cited page with at least three sources (Oveta Culp Hobby Memorial Library) containing information used in the essay (note: there must be a parenthetical citation at the end of each sentence that contains information from a source). The assignment is to be formatted according to the American Psychological Association (APA) style. Papers not formatted properly or with grammatical or spelling errors will lose points.
TOPIC: The checks and balances within the U.S. Constitution, the powers afforded to the different branches of government within the U.S. Constitution, and how federalism has historically served as a check and balance on these powers. When writing your paper be sure to answer the following questions using information provided in the assigned textbook (The correct answers will be found in your textbook). Use at least three additional sources to add to your responses to give your assignment greater breadth and depth. Be sure to specifically identify these outside sources with in-text citations when formatting your paper.
What are the three branches of the federal government in the United States and what powers are afforded to them?
How does separating the government in to three branches serve as a checks and balance on each?
What is federalism?
What provisions within the Constitution help to create a federalist system in the United States?
How has federalism changed in the United States over time?
What options does the federal government have in influencing the policies of the fifty states?
It is important to think critically about your chosen topic and clearly express your thoughts about it in writing. Where appropriate, make sure to include specific evidence and/or examples (along with appropriate citations). When writing your analysis, consider the eight standards for critical thinking (Paul and Elder, 2013): clarity, accuracy, precision, relevance, depth, breadth, logic, and fairness. Ask yourself questions, such as
