Classroom Resources By Topic

Article I

Introduction

The Legislative Branch: The Constitution grants Congress—our nation’s legislative branch—the power to make laws. The legislative branch is outlined in Article I of the Constitution. The Constitution divides Congress into two houses—the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. The House of Representatives is composed of representatives proportionate to each state’s population. At the same time, the Senate is organized under the principle of equal state representation—with each state, regardless of its population, receiving two Senators. 

Big Questions

What role does Congress have in the national government? What powers does the Constitution grant to Congress? And what are some of the limits on congressional power?
How did the Framers come up with Congress, and what were some of the debates at the Constitutional Convention? Has the original vision for what Congress should be changed over time?
What are some of the Supreme Court’s key decisions on congressional power? And what are some of the topics of ongoing constitutional debate?

Article I: The Legislative Branch with Gary Lawson
All Ages Session 

Article I: Congress - The Legislative Branch
Advanced Session 

Article I: Congress - The Legislative Branch 
Introductory Session 

Constitution 101

Constitution 101

Module 7: The Legislative Branch: How Congress Works

Additional Resources

Educational Video
Scholar Exchange: How Congress Works Featuring Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon

In this Fun Friday Session, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania, joins Center President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen to explore Article I of the Constitution, which defines the powers of Congress.

Podcast
Congress in Times of Crisis: Lessons from History

Joanne Freeman, Norm Ornstein and Ed Ayers reflect on how Congress has functioned in times of instability and change.

Podcast
Article I and the role of Congress

In a special event at Columbia University, David Pozen of Columbia and Nicholas Quinn Rosenkranz of Georgetown University discuss how to restore the separation of powers.

Podcast
Congress, the Constitution, and Compromise

Experts discuss how the potential end of the filibuster and other reforms might lead to different outcomes.

Podcast
Congress, the Filibuster, and the Constitution

Shedding light on the history, constitutionality, and calls for reform of the filibuster.

Explore Article I on the Interactive Constitution

Section 2: The House of Representatives

Section 3: The Senate

Section 5: Powers and Duties of Congress

Section 6: Rights and Disabilities of Members

Section 7: Legislative Process

Section 10: Powers Denied to the States

Big Questions

Classroom Materials

Explore Article I Questions

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