Bicameralism

Written By Jonathan Milner

Bicameralism: means "two chambers," and in practice refers to a government structure involving two houses, or two legislative bodies, that are separate in deliberation from one another. To balance the interests of both the small and large states, the Framers of the Constitution divided the power of Congress between two houses of Congress. Article I, Section 1 of the United States Constitution sets up a bicameral legislature. “All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives.” The upper house (Senate) and lower house (House of Representatives) have different rules and powers.

 
 

Questions

  1. Translate bicameralism into plain English.

  2. What are the two chambers in the US Congress?

  3. Why do we have two chambers in the US Congress?

  4. What is the difference between an bicameral and unicameral?

  5. Is there such thing as a tricameral legislature and would that even be a good idea?

  6. Who is the leader of each sides of the bicameral legislature?

  7. Describe an example of bicameralism in current events:

  8. What emoji does the best job of representing the meaning of bicameralism?

  9. What emoji does not do a good job of representing bicameralism at all but is still really cool?

  10. What is the one state in the US that does not have a bicameral legislature?

Remember!

Now, let’s commit this term to our long-term memory. On a scrap piece of paper, take 10 or 20 seconds to draw bicameralism! Draw with symbols or stick figures if you wish. Nothing fancy. Don’t expect a masterpiece. No one else will see this but you. Look at your drawing. That’s all - now it’s downloaded into your memory. Destroy the piece of paper in a most delightful way.

Further Review

Student AP Government Exam Prep Portal
Free

Get AP exam-ready with diagnostic tests, online review games, test review sheets, practice quizzes, full-length practice exam, and self-guided writing workshops. We'll make studying a breeze.

✓ Fun Review Games!
✓ Practice online tests with instant scoring + explanations
✓ Photographs of my beloved pet Beagle Roger!

GoPo Glossary

Jonathan Milner

Civics Maven!

https://www.gopopro.com/
Previous

American Dream
Next

Socialism