What is Legislature Class 11 Questions: Complete Guide for Political Science

Definition and Meaning of Legislature

The legislature is the branch of government responsible for making laws. In simple terms, it is the law-making body that represents the people. In India, the legislature plays a vital role in shaping policies and ensuring governance through laws.

Key points:

• It is a representative body elected by the people.
• It debates, discusses, and passes laws.
• It holds the government accountable.

For Class 11 students, understanding the definition of legislature is the first step to mastering the chapter in the NCERT Political Science textbook.

Structure of Legislature: Unicameral vs Bicameral

Legislatures can be of two types:

India’s Parliament is bicameral, consisting of the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States). State legislatures may be unicameral or bicameral depending on the state.

Understanding this structure helps Class 11 students answer questions related to the composition and functions of the legislature.

Functions and Powers of the Legislature

The legislature performs several important functions:

• Law Making: It passes new laws and amends or repeals old laws.
• Control over Executive: It checks the government through questions, debates, and motions.
• Representation: It represents the views and interests of the people.
• Financial Control: It approves the budget and controls public expenditure.

Example: If the government wants to increase taxes, the proposal must be approved by the legislature.

These functions are essential topics in Class 11 Political Science exams and are well explained in the NCERT textbook.

How Legislature Works: Sessions and Procedures

The legislature meets in sessions to conduct its business. Usually, there are three sessions in a year:

• Budget Session: Discusses and approves the budget.
• Monsoon Session: Discusses various bills and issues.
• Winter Session: Continues legislative work and debates.

Procedure: 1. A bill is introduced. 2. It is debated and discussed. 3. It may be sent to committees for detailed study. 4. After approval, it becomes law.

Class 11 students should familiarize themselves with these procedures to answer questions on how laws are made.

Comparison: Legislature vs Executive

Understanding the difference between legislature and executive is important:

This comparison helps clarify the distinct roles of each branch, a common question in Class 11 Political Science exams.

Solved Example: Identifying Legislature Functions

Question: Which of the following is NOT a function of the legislature?

A) Making laws

B) Implementing laws

C) Controlling the executive

D) Approving the budget

Answer: B) Implementing laws

Explanation: The legislature makes laws but does not implement them. Implementation is the role of the executive. This example helps Class 11 students understand the division of powers clearly.