Civics Final Exam Essay Questions

Part III: Long Answer.  Choose TWO (2) of the following prompts to answer fully in complete paragraphs on a separate piece of paper.  10 points each, see rubric below.

1)      Compare and contrast the two major parties in U.S. politics.  Give at least three major differences between these two parties.  Tell which party you tend to agree with more and explain why.

2)      Describe the different parts of the Constitution and the information included in each part.

3)      Describe two of the compromises in ratifying the Constitution.  Explain both sides and what was finally agreed upon for each. 

4)      What is the concept of “checks and balances”?  What is the concept of “separation of powers”?  Give an example of each and connect at least one to the concept of federalism
5)    Discuss the American legal system.  What has influenced our laws (provide at least two specifics). How are laws made? Are all laws created equal? Explain. What happens when you break the law? What happens when laws are unfair?

RUBRIC

10 points =  Student clearly answers all parts of the prompt, providing multiple specific and relevant examples from his/her studies and/or observations.  Writing has a clear introduction (thesis in which an original argument is asserted), body, and conclusion.

9 points =  Student clearly attempts to answer all parts of the prompt, providing some specific and relevant evidence from his/her studies and/or observations.  Writing has a clear introduction (thesis), body, and conclusion.

8 points =  Student answers most parts of the prompt, providing relevant evidence from his/her studies and/or observations.  Writing has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.

7 points =  Student attempts to answer the main part of the prompt, providing somewhat relevant evidence from his/her studies and/or observations.  Writing has a clear introduction and  body.

1-6 points =  Student’s answer lacks clarity and/or organization discussed above.