KEY TERMS

CIVICS 8

Executive Branch: The executive branch is part of the government that has its
authority and responsibility for the daily administration of the province or country.

Public Service: Public service is a service which is provided by government to

people living within its area.
Civil Service: The permanent professional branches of a government's
administration.

Legislative Branch: The legislative branch is the part of the government which
creates laws

Leader of the Opposition: Leader of the biggest party

Bill: A draft or proposed law to parliament

Judicial Branch: One of the three branches and controls criminal and civil courts

Riding: An administrative division or electoral division in Canada.

Political Party: A political party is a group of people who want to achieve their
common goals by using political power.

Caucus: A meeting of the members of a legislative party who are members of a

political party who decide and select candidates and policy

Cabinet Solidarity: Cabinet solidarity means that all members of cabinet must
support cabinet decisions

Responsible Government: A government that is responsible to the people.

Party Platform: A list of values and actions which are supported by a political
party that appeals to the general public.

Representation By Population: Method which seats are in the House of

Commons in such a way as to vary with population

Constituency: Voters in a specified area who elect a representative to a legislative

body.

By-Election: An election to fill a position during a term of office.

Prime Minister: Head of an elected government.

Cabinet: A body of advisers to the Prime Ministers