Sam took notes on the principles embodied in the Constitution such as rule of law, separation of powers, and limited government. We then studied a chart on checks and balances and Sam took notes on the powers of each branch of government and how other branches can check that power. We then addressed federalism and ,in connection with that study, I distributed a sample ballot that will be used in tomorrow's election. We discussed how the ballot reflects both separation of powers and federalism. We also reviewed the results of Sam's test. For homework, I assigned from the text the reading on federalism, and the completion of a study guide I prepared that requires Sam to analyze the sample ballot and apply some principles we have discussed. Sam is also to make corrections to her test responses.