What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?

Prepare for the GED Civics Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get set for success!

The U.S. Congress is made up of two distinct chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives. This bicameral structure was established by the U.S. Constitution to ensure a system of checks and balances within the legislative branch. The Senate consists of two senators from each state, serving six-year terms, while the House of Representatives is made up of representatives based on each state’s population, serving two-year terms. This division allows for both equal representation (in the Senate) and representation based on population (in the House), creating a balancing act in the creation of federal laws and policies.

The other options refer to legislative bodies from different countries or branches of government and do not relate to the structure of the U.S. Congress. For example, the House of Commons and the House of Lords are part of the United Kingdom's Parliament, and the Supreme Court is part of the judicial branch, not the legislative branch. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping how the U.S. government operates and how laws are enacted.

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