The system of checks balances between the branches of the U.S. government is written into the Constitution, but it isn''t always clearly understood. How does each branch keep the others from getting too powerful? The answer is waiting for readers to discover in this inside guide to an essential civics concept. Through age-appropriate text, photographs, sidebars, and fact boxes, readers explore the meaning of checks and balances and how the system works. They''re also encouraged to discuss ways it''s been used in the past and the benefits and disadvantages of checks and balances.