Federalism is a complex topic. But at its core is a division of powers and duties for federal, state, and local governments.

Directions:

1. Study the illustration below carefully and complete this Federalism and the Division of Power worksheet.
   | MS Word | PDF |

Submit your completed worksheet as a Word document in the Assignments Folder.

LARGER IMAGE

Federalism can be further understood by examining two different views of governing power in the United States. The "states' rights" position favors state and local jurisdictions in most matters, while the "nationalist" position favors the federal government taking the lead in public policy making.

Many times these two views clash and the debate is centered on how you interpret the Supremacy Clause and the Tenth Amendment.  Do these two parts of the Constitution compliment each other, or are they in conflict? 

Directions:

1. Read Article VI (6) of the Constitution and the Tenth Amendment carefully.

2. Decide which position you support—states' rights or the nationalist position?

3. Write a well-supported response to defend your position and post it in the Discussion Board in the forum titled "States' Rights v. Nationalist". See how others have responded when you post your answer.

Make sure that you post to the Discussion Board and respond to at least two (2) comments from your classmates to receive credit for this assignment.