Grade 9 · Social studies

Compare federal, unitary and confederal models

The idea

In a federal model, a constitution divides authority between national and regional governments.

Step by step
  1. In a federal model, a constitution divides authority between national and regional governments.
  2. In a unitary model, ultimate governing authority rests with the central government.
  3. In a confederal model, member governments delegate limited powers to a shared body; apply the model as described.

Example

A constitution assigns protected powers to both national and regional governments. Which simplified model fits?

Answer

federal model

Constitutionally divided authority is the defining feature of this federal model.

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Write three invented system descriptions and label the feature that determines each classification.

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