1. Constitution is over 200 years old
Constitution still functions because of its flexibility
The Constitution was only meant to be a blueprint or framework
3. Proposing Amendments
-Described in Article 5
-Must first be proposed
-two methods of proposing an
amendment
2/3 of Both Houses of Congress
National Convention called by 2/3
of states
-only method ever used is 2/3 of
Congress
4. Ratifying Amendments
-Must first be proposed
-must be ratified by 3/4 of the
states
-Two methods of ratifying
by state legislatures
by state conventions
-Difficult process
only make changes when really
needed
5. Necessary and Proper Clause
-Necessary and Proper Clause-
Statement in Article I of the
Constitution that allows Congress to
stretch its enumerated powers to do
almost anything in the best interests
of the citizens---Elastic Clause
-Article 1 describes the power but does
not define the power specifically
-most interpretation occurs with this
phrase
-Implied Powers
-Powers that are not specifically
written in the Constitution but are
interpreted to exist
-Constitution is a flexible document
6. Interpretation
-Three types of Interpretation
strict—based on actual wording of
Constitution
loose—based on implied meanings
of passages
original intent —based on what
founding fathers meant the
Constitution to say
-Final Interpretation of the
Constitution
- Handled by the Supreme Court
-This opinion changes over time
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