U.S. Citizenship Civics TestPrinciples of American DemocracyMedium
During a discussion on constitutional amendments, a civics teacher asks, 'What is the purpose of an amendment to the U.S. Constitution?'
- ATo clarify, add to, or change the original Constitution.
- BTo declare war on a foreign nation.
- CTo interpret existing laws for the Supreme Court.
- DTo dissolve the current government and establish a new one.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. To clarify, add to, or change the original Constitution.
An amendment is a formal change or addition to the U.S. Constitution. Its purpose is to adapt the Constitution to changing times or to address new issues without completely rewriting the entire document.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Declaring war is a power of Congress, not the purpose of an amendment.
- C. Interpreting laws is the role of the judiciary, not the purpose of an amendment.
- D. This describes a revolution or constitutional convention, not an amendment.
Constitutional Amendment
A formal change or addition to the U.S. Constitution, allowing the document to adapt over time.
- Requires a rigorous ratification process
- 27 amendments currently exist
- Protects rights or alters government structure
Memory trick: Amendments Alter and Add to America's Architecture.