Meaning and functions of government — KCSE History & Government

KCSE History & Government · 20 practice questions · 4 syllabus objectives

9 easy9 medium2 hard

What You'll Learn

Key learning outcomes for this topic, aligned to the KNEC KCSE syllabus.

Define government and state the main functions of government: making laws, administering justice, maintaining order and providing services

Distinguish between unitary, federal and confederal systems of government with examples

Explain the relationship between the state, government and citizens in a democratic society

Meaning and functions of government

Sample Questions

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easySHORT ANSWER5 marks

State the meaning of 'state' and list FOUR characteristics of a state.

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Part (a) — 1 mark

State: a politically organized body of people occupying a definite territory, with a government and sovereignty. (1 mk)

Part (b) — 4 marks

Defined territory. (1 mk)

Permanent population. (1 mk)

Sovereign government. (1 mk)

Ability to enter relations with other states. (1 mk)

easySHORT ANSWER5 marks

Name the different types of government and state ONE characteristic of each.

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Part (a) — 2 marks

Democracy (1 mk)

Dictatorship (1 mk)

Part (b) — 3 marks

Democracy: government by the people, where leaders are elected (1 mk)

Dictatorship: government by a single leader with absolute power (1 mk)

Any other relevant characteristic for each type (1 mk)

easySHORT ANSWER5 marks

Identify and explain THREE functions of government in a society.

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Part (a) — 3 marks

Making and enforcing laws (1 mk)

Providing public services (1 mk)

Ensuring national security (1 mk)

Part (b) — 2 marks

Explanation of how laws are made and enforced to maintain order (1 mk)

Examples of laws that maintain public order (1 mk)

Define the term 'government' and list FOUR key functions it performs.

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