Class 11 Political Science - GUJARAT
Constitution: Why and How
The chapter 'Constitution: Why and How' introduces Class 11 Gujarat Board (GSEB) students to the fundamental principles of political science by exploring the necessity, creation, and functioning of a constitution. It explains why a society needs a constitution to establish a basic set of rules, coordinate trust, and limit the power of government. Students will learn how the Indian Constitution was drafted by the Constituent Assembly, drawing inspiration from various global traditions while addressing India's unique social diversity. This chapter is vital for board exams as it builds the foundational concepts for understanding the entire Indian political system.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Constitution
A body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is acknowledged to be governed.
Constituent Assembly
A body of representatives elected for the purpose of drafting or adopting a constitution, which for India met between December 1946 and January 1950.
Rule of Law
The restriction of the arbitrary exercise of power by subordinating it to well-defined and established laws, ensuring equality before the law.
Universal Adult Suffrage
The right of all adult citizens to vote in elections, regardless of wealth, income, gender, social status, race, or ethnicity.
Separation of Powers
An operational principle that divides the responsibilities of government into distinct branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Gujarat (GSEB) Class 11 Political Science examinations, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Common question types include Very Short Answer Questions (VSAQs) regarding dates and terms, Short Answer Questions (SAQs) explaining the functions of a constitution, and Long Answer Questions (LAQs) detailing the making of the Indian Constitution or its key features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do we need a constitution in a democracy?
A constitution is needed to provide a set of basic rules that allow for minimal coordination among members of a society, specify who has the power to make decisions, and limit government power so it does not cross its boundaries.
How long did it take to make the Indian Constitution?
The Constituent Assembly took 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days to complete the drafting of the Indian Constitution.
What is the difference between a written and an unwritten constitution?
A written constitution is systematically codified and compiled in a single document (like India's), whereas an unwritten constitution is not gathered in one single document and relies heavily on conventions, traditions, and scattered statutory laws (like the UK's).
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