Reading Comprehension Skills and Strategies - Level 7

Na m e : ___ Date: _

Directions: An outline provides the “bare bones” of information. Read and follow the directions

below to create an outline of how the U.S. government is structured.

I. (Branch)

A. (Who)

B. (Main purpose)

C. (Main powers)

1. (Power)


2. (Power)


3. (Power)

The U.S. constitution divides the
powers of American government
into three branches, each with its
own powers and limitations.

Study the basic outline framework
below. Then use it to help you fill in
the missing parts on the outline at
the right.

• Represent general population


• Supreme Court


• Command armed forces


• Main powers of Judicial Branch


• President


• Impeach the President


• Declare laws unconstitutional


• Set foreign policy


• Declare war


• Veto laws from Congress


• Legislative Branch

Structure of the U.S. Government

I. Executive Branch

A. ______________________________________________

B. Oversees and administers government

C. Main powers of Executive Branch

1. ___________________________________________

2. Appoint high federal officials

3. ___________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________

II. ________________________________________________

A. House of Representatives and Senate (Congress)

B. ______________________________________________

C. Main powers of Legislative Branch

1. Propose new laws

2. ___________________________________________

3. Levy taxes and appropriate funds

4. ___________________________________________

III. Judicial Branch

A. ______________________________________________

B. Judges constitutionality of laws

C. ______________________________________________

1. Uphold existing laws

2. ___________________________________________

3. Settle legal disputes from lower courts