Throughout this lesson, you've examined how government agencies work in general. You've also learned some more specific information about a few key agencies. By now you should know that the CIA serves as the secret, undercover, information-gathering wing of the federal government, and that the FDA helps regulate food and medication to ensure that they are safely used and consumed.

There are hundreds of other agencies that can affect your life in large or small ways, however. It could be important one day that you understand which agency controls which aspects of American life. The WebQuest activity below asks you to identify the agency responsible for specific policies, issues, and regulations. For most actions, you'll need to do some research to identify the agency that deals with that issue. You'll also need to identify to whom that agency reports (department, president, etc.), and if the agency is independent or a line agency.