The Three Branches: Who, What, Where and When

As we explored in the previous section, the United States Government is divided into three branches.  We know that the structure of the government was established in the United States Constitution (ratified in 1787).  We know that the three branches are called the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches.  But what exactly do each of these branches do?  Who works within them?  Who is in charge, or at the head of, each branch?  How often are new representatives and government officials voted in or appointed?  Let’s find out!  

We will start in this lesson with the Executive Branch.  SInce there is a lot going on in that branch alone, we will explore the Legislative and Judicial branches in the next lesson.

Executive Branch

The Executive Branch is the one most often referred to, as it houses the President.  Below is a summary of the role of this branch, who heads it, key offices, and powers:

The Executive Branch
Role	Carries out and enforces the laws
Head	The President Elected every four years
Key Offices	The Vice President The Cabinet Appointed by the President   Federal Agencies (i.e. the FBI, EPA, etc.)
Summary of  Powers	The President can sign bills into law, negotiate treaties, and serve as the Commander-in-Chief of the military The President can also issue executive orders, though these must respect the Constitution and laws of the country

Take a moment to really examine this chart.  In the next sections, we will be diving more into the role of the Executive Branch, as well as the specific roles and powers of its head and key offices: The President, Vice President, Cabinet, and Federal Agencies.  It is important to remember that all facets of the Executive Branch come together in a common goal: executing, or carrying out, the laws of the United States.

Vocabulario Esencial
El Gabinete	The Cabinet
Agencias Federales	Federal Agencies