Comparing Parliamentary and Presidential Systems Practice Test

Read the following passage for context: Current Issues—Parliamentary systems place the executive inside the legislature, since the prime minister and cabinet depend on parliamentary confidence. The head of state is usually separate and ceremonial, which can clarify symbolic versus governing roles. This design can support swift policy action under a disciplined majority, but coalition disputes can weaken efficiency. Presidential systems elect the executive and legislature separately, and the president serves as both head of state and head of government. This strengthens separation of powers, yet it can increase gridlock when branches disagree. Semi-presidential systems combine a directly elected president with a prime minister who depends on parliamentary support. During cohabitation, the president and prime minister may compete for influence, complicating accountability. Examples include the United Kingdom for parliamentary, the United States for presidential, and France for semi-presidential systems. Based on the passage, what is a key difference between parliamentary and presidential systems?

Read the following passage for context: Advantages and Disadvantages—In parliamentary systems, the prime minister and cabinet come from the legislature, and the head of state is usually ceremonial. This can make it easier to pass laws, especially with a stable majority, but coalition politics can weaken clarity and shorten government lifespans. In presidential systems, the president serves as head of state and head of government, and fixed terms can promote continuity. Yet when different parties control the legislature and presidency, bargaining can stall major legislation. In semi-presidential systems, a directly elected president shares executive authority with a prime minister who depends on parliamentary support. This can provide both national leadership and legislative accountability, but it can also create competition within the executive. The United Kingdom and Germany fit the parliamentary model, the United States and Brazil fit the presidential model, and France and Portugal fit the semi-presidential model. In the passage, which country is given as an example of a parliamentary system?