#AP Comparative Government: Unit 2 Study Guide - Political Institutions

Hey! Let's get ready to ace this exam. We're diving into Unit 2, but first, a quick recap of Unit 1. Remember, Unit 1 was our 'how-to' guide for comparing the course countries (UK, Russia, Iran, Mexico, China, and Nigeria). Now, Unit 2 is all about the specific structures and functions of their governments. Think of it like this: Unit 1 gave us the lens, and Unit 2 gives us the details. Let's make this stick!

#Unit 1 Flashback: Setting the Stage

Before we dive deep, let's quickly remember the big picture from Unit 1. We're comparing how different countries organize their governments, focusing on the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. If you've taken AP US Government, you'll recognize some of these concepts!

#Key Branches in Action

The White House, home of the President, is an example of an executive branch.

Capitol Hill, home to the Senate and House of Representatives in the United States, is an example of the legislative branch.

Supreme Court of the United States is an example of the judicial branch.

#Unit 2: Political Institutions - The Main Event

Unit 2 is all about understanding the different types of political systems and how they function in our course countries. According to the Course Exam and Description (CED), here's how we'll break it down:

#Big Idea 1: Comparing Political Systems

• Parliamentary Systems: 🏛️ The legislative branch (parliament) chooses the executive (prime minister). Think of it like the parliament is the boss and the PM is their chosen leader. The UK is a prime example.
• Presidential Systems: 👑 The executive (president) is separate from the legislative and judicial branches. The president is both head of state and head of government. Mexico and Nigeria are good examples.
• Semi-Presidential Systems: 🤝 A mix of both! Th...