The structure of Congress: House of Representatives and Senate

• The U.S. Congress = legislative branch (makes, debates, and passes laws).
• Created by the 1787 Constitution (Article I).
• Two chambers: House of Representatives & Senate.
• Purpose: represent the people and the states (Great Compromise of 1787).

• 435 members, elected every 2 years, based on population.
• Led by the Speaker of the House.
• Most work happens in committees (Budget, Judiciary, Education...).
• Represents the immediate needs of the people.
• Example: “National Students’ Day Act” → a national holiday for students.
• The House acts quickly to reflect public will.

• Represents the states (2 senators per state)

• Six-year terms for stability

• Can amend, delay, or reject bills

• Ratifies international treaties

• Confirms presidential appointments

• Acts as a court in impeachment trials

• Protects the Constitution and states’ rights

• Compromise on the Students’ Day Act → ½ day off + ½ day volunteering.

• Key question: Is there real balance of power between the two chambers?
• House: acts fast to serve public opinion.
• Senate: ensures laws are constitutional and stable.
• Each side sees the other as sometimes overstepping its role.

1. What was the main historical reason for creating a bicameral Congress in the United States? A. To separate the executive and legislative powers B. To balance the interests of large and small states C. To limit the president’s authority D. To speed up the lawmaking process

2. What major difference distinguishes the House of Representatives from the Senate? A. The House represents the states, while the Senate represents the citizens B. The House elects judges, while the Senate elects the president C. The House represents the people directly, while the Senate represents the states D. The House votes on international treaties, while the Senate enforces them

3. What special power does the Senate have that the House does not? A. Proposing tax and spending bills B. Amending the Constitution without a vote C. Ratifying treaties and confirming presidential appointments D. Declaring war

4. According to the debate between the sénate and the House , what is the main point of tension between the two chambers? A. The speed of legislative action versus constitutional caution B. The funding of federal laws C. The president’s role in the legislative process D. The balance between Congress and the Supreme Court

5) how does the Senate ensure stability within the U.S. political system? A. By responding quickly to public demands and passing urgent reforms B. By reviewing legislation carefully to protect constitutional and state interests C. By representing districts based on population changes D. By proposing new laws more frequently than the House