Module 5: The Judiciary
The judicial branch is responsible for interpreting the laws and regulating the actions of the President and Congress. In order to perform these duties effectively, it is important for the judicial branch to remain separate and distinct from the other two branches of government. The judiciary should be above the influence of politics and power, ensuring an impartial and fair application of the law.
In this module, you will learn about the organization and powers of the judicial branch, as well as the pivotal role it plays in American government. You will also examine the history of the federal judiciary, how court cases are decided, and how federal judges and Supreme Court Justices influence public policy.
Getting Started
Think of some of the popular symbols of the justice system. You can probably name quite a few, but do you know what they symbolize? In this interactivity, drag and drop the puzzle pieces to their appropriate locations and submit. This puzzle is non-graded and will explain some of the popular symbols of the justice system. Click the player button to begin.
Key Vocabulary
To view the definitions for these key vocabulary terms, visit the course glossary.
amicus curiae
appeal
appellate jurisdiction
briefs
Chief Justice
clerk of the court
concurrent jurisdiction
concurring opinion
court-martial
dispute
dissenting opinion
exclusive jurisdiction
inferior
judicial activism
judicial restraint
jurisdiction
jury
justice
magistrate judge
majority opinion
original jurisdiction
U.S. Attorney
U.S. Marshall
writ of certiorari
writ of mandamus