The document summarizes key aspects of the legislative branch as established in Article 1 of the US Constitution. It outlines the structure of Congress as a bicameral legislature consisting of the Senate and House of Representatives. It describes the composition and roles of each chamber, including lengths of terms, minimum age and residency requirements for representatives and senators. It also summarizes powers granted to Congress and limitations on its authority.

1. ARTICLE ONE Requirements, Duties, and Characteristics of the Legislative Branch.

3. What is Fair? How should representing the states balance the big and the small? (Continuation of our “We the People” lessons) NJ Plan: Equal Representation Pro: all have equal say. Con: people’s votes aren’t equal. VA Plan : Proportional Representation Pro: people’s votes are now weighted evenly. Con: small states have little say vs Great Compromise: Create a legislature with 2 houses, balance responsibilities between the two, and create a more perfect union of big and small.

4. A balance is created between the big and the small states. In 200o, Bush won more states than Gore, but Gore won more people. Ideally, this example represents the idea of both plans.

5. A balance in population is a little more clear here. This map shrinks/expands each state based on population.

6. Characteristics of the 2 Houses Article 1, Section 2 (Clauses 1 & 2); Section 3 (Clauses 1,2 &3) All Reps/Senators are elected by direct election – the people vote directly for them. Senate House of Representatives 6 Years Length of Term 2 Years 30 Years Old Age Minimum 25 Years Old Live anywhere in state Residency Requirement Live in district 9 year US citizen Citizenship Requirement 7 year US citizen 100 Total # 435 2 From IL 19 New Jersey (NJ) Plan – favors small states More Like: Virginia (VA) Plan – favors big states

10. Impeachment Process Article 1, Section 2, Clause 5; Section 3, Clauses 6 & 7