Three Branches of California Government — Reading Comprehension

Premium Resource

Grades

Standards

D2.CIV.1.3-5
D2.CIV.2.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging history reading passage introduces students to the three branches of California government: the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches. Students will learn how these branches work together to create, enforce, and interpret laws, and why this system is important for fairness and democracy. The passage includes clear examples, grade-appropriate vocabulary, and a cause-and-effect structure to support literacy skills. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, a writing prompt, and a graphic organizer to deepen understanding. The passage is aligned to C3 Framework and Common Core standards, making it perfect for classroom use. A Spanish translation and read aloud audio are included, supporting language learners and diverse classrooms. Key vocabulary terms are highlighted and defined to enhance comprehension. This resource helps students build foundational knowledge about government and citizenship, preparing them for future civic understanding.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Acrylic painting illustrating California's three branches in a — Artistic Representation of the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches ensure California's government remains fair.

California has its own government, just like the United States. The state government is divided into three parts called branches. These branches are the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches. Each branch has a special job. This system helps make sure that no one group has all the power.

The Legislative branch makes the laws. In California, this branch is called the State Legislature. It has two groups: the Assembly and the Senate. People vote for members of the Assembly and the Senate. These lawmakers listen to people’s needs. They write new laws to help the state. For example, they might make laws to keep water clean or make schools safer.

The Executive branch carries out the laws. The leader of this branch is the Governor. The Governor signs bills into law or can stop a bill with a veto. The Governor also works with other leaders to run state programs like highways and parks. For example, when there is a wildfire, the Governor helps organize the state’s response.

The Judicial branch explains the laws and makes sure they are fair. This branch is made up of the courts, including the California Supreme Court. Judges decide if laws follow the California Constitution. If a law is unfair, the courts can change how it is used or even stop it.

These three branches work together. This is called separation of powers. Each branch checks the other branches. For example, if the Legislature passes a law, the Governor can sign or veto it. But if someone thinks a law is unfair, the courts can decide what happens. This system protects people’s rights.

When California became a state in 1850, leaders wanted to make sure no one person or group would control everything. They chose to use three branches, just like the United States government. This helps keep the government fair and strong.

Interesting Fact: The California State Capitol building in Sacramento is where the Legislative and Executive branches work together to serve the people of California.

What are the three branches called?

Legislative, Executive, JudicialAssembly, Senate, GovernorPresident, Mayor, JudgeLaw, Power, Rights

Who leads the Executive branch?

The GovernorThe JudgeThe AssemblyThe President

Where do the branches meet in California?

SacramentoSan FranciscoLos AngelesSan Diego

Why was the government divided into branches?

To share powerTo save moneyTo make one leaderTo stop voting

What does the Judicial branch do?

Explains lawsMakes lawsBuilds roadsCollects taxes

How does the Governor stop a law?

With a vetoWith a voteBy quittingBy writing letters