Federalism: Sharing Power in America
Understanding How Government Power is Divided Grade 7 Social Studies
Think About This...
Who decides if you need a driver's license? Who decides if the country goes to war? Why might different levels of government handle different responsibilities?
What is Federalism?
A system where power is shared between national and state governments Both levels of government have their own responsibilities Neither level can completely control the other Creates a balance of power to protect citizens' rights
Federal vs. State Powers
{"left":"Declare war and make peace\nPrint money and regulate trade between states\nRun the postal service\nControl immigration and citizenship","right":"Make laws about marriage and divorce\nIssue driver's licenses\nRun public schools\nControl local police and fire departments"}
The Constitution Sets the Rules
Written in 1787 to create our federal system Lists specific powers for the federal government Reserves other powers for the states 10th Amendment: Powers not given to federal government belong to states
Federalism in Action: Sorting Game
Work with a partner to sort these responsibilities: Building highways Declaring war Running elections Controlling the military Licensing doctors Making treaties with other countries
Real Examples of Federalism
Education: States run schools, federal government sets some standards Transportation: States build local roads, federal government builds interstate highways Law enforcement: Local police handle most crimes, FBI handles crimes across state lines Taxes: You pay both state and federal taxes
Benefits of Federalism
"Federalism allows states to be laboratories of democracy, trying new ideas that can then spread to other states." - Allows local solutions to local problems - Prevents any one government from becoming too powerful - Encourages citizen participation at multiple levels
Challenges of Federalism
Sometimes federal and state laws conflict Can be confusing to know which government is responsible May lead to inequality between states Coordination between levels can be difficult
Why Federalism Matters to You
Your education is shaped by both state and federal policies The roads you travel are built by different levels of government Your future voting will involve local, state, and federal elections Understanding federalism helps you be an informed citizen