The Legislative Branch is an extremely powerful body that has control over the laws that affect us all.

Some of these powers are EXPRESSED by the Constitution, while there are those that are IMPLIED. In
this activity you will discover the difference between the two and explore some of the history behind
Congress.

Go to http://www.infoplease.com/timelines/congressionalpowers.html

1. Explain "expressed powers." You might need to do your own search on Google to provide an
acceptable answer.

2. Explain "implied powers." Again, you may need to search outside of the provided site for
appropriate details.

3. What is the significance of Gibson v Ogden in regards to congressional power? When did
this case occur?

4. When was Social Security enacted? How similar to the original Social Security is our system
today?

5. Interstate and National Highway act: What is it, when was it implemented?

6. What is Medicare? When was it enacted?

Go to http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/conlaw/congpowers.htm

7. What is McCulloch vs. Maryland? What is its importance in regards to the development of
congressional powers?

8. Read through, explain and cite 2 additional cases that have involved the question of
Congressional powers.

Go to http://www.whitehouse.gov/our-government/legislative-branch

9. What body has the sole power to confirm presidential appointments?

10. What Article in the Constitution “enumerates the powers of Congress?”

Lastly, using one of the major news sources, locate and article that deals with Congress in some
way, shape or fashion. Summarize the article in a paragraph and provide the link.