ged social studies practice test

A a high school equivalency exam designed for individuals who did not graduate from high school but want to demonstrate they have the same knowledge and skills as a high school graduate

This flow chart traces development of democratic government in England. Which event completes this sequence?
Question image
  • A. The English Bill of Rights gave the king power to appoint most members of Parliament.
  • B. The Magna Carta forced the nobles to give up their feudal lands.
  • C. The English Bill of Rights guaranteed suffrage to most male citizens.
  • D. The Magna Carta forced the king to share his political power.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The correct choice, D, highlights the Magna Carta's pivotal role in limiting the king's absolute power and initiating the concept of shared governance. This foundational document established that the monarch must consult nobles before making decisions, laying the groundwork for parliamentary democracy. Option A is incorrect as the English Bill of Rights actually limited the king's power over Parliament, not enhanced it. Option B misrepresents the Magna Carta's purpose; it did not force nobles to relinquish their lands, but rather addressed their grievances against the king. Option C is also inaccurate, as the English Bill of Rights did not guarantee suffrage but focused on limiting royal authority and protecting certain rights.

Other Related Questions

Which statement from President Polk's address is a fact rather than an opinion?
  • A. "Our title to… Oregon is 'clear and unquestionable,' and already are our people preparing to perfect that title by occupying it with their wives and children..."
  • B. "[O]ur people… have filled the eastern valley of the Mississippi,... ascended the Missouri to its headsprings..."
  • C. "Nor will it become in a less degree my duty to… maintain by all constitutional means the right of the United States to that portion of our territory which lies beyond the Rocky Mountains."
  • D. "The jurisdiction of our laws and the benefits of our republican institutions should be extended over them in the distant regions which they have selected for their homes."
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Option B presents a factual statement about the movement of people in the United States, specifically noting their migration patterns along the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. This statement can be verified through historical records, making it a fact. In contrast, Option A expresses a subjective belief regarding the clarity of the title to Oregon, which is an opinion rather than an objective truth. Option C discusses the duty of the President in a way that implies a commitment but does not provide verifiable information. Lastly, Option D suggests a normative view on governance and territorial expansion, reflecting a belief in the benefits of U.S. institutions rather than stating a fact.
How does the message presented by Senator Paul differ from the message presented by President Obama?
  • A. Only Senator Paul promotes less government involvement in health care.
  • B. Only Senator Paul wants to secure more health care for U.S. citizens.
  • C. Only President Obama supports the Supreme Court's right to rule about health care.
  • D. Only President Obama discusses problems in the health care industry.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Senator Paul advocates for reduced government involvement in health care, emphasizing personal choice and market-driven solutions. This contrasts with President Obama's approach, which supports a more active role for the government in expanding access and regulating the industry. Option B is incorrect as both politicians aim to improve health care access, albeit through different methods. Option C misrepresents Obama's stance; he supports health care reforms that align with Supreme Court rulings but does not solely focus on this aspect. Option D is misleading; while Obama addresses health care issues, Senator Paul also discusses industry challenges, making this option inaccurate.
What is the meaning of the word entrenched as used in this excerpt?
  • A. in control
  • B. strongly defended
  • C. established and unlikely to change
  • D. surrounded and unable to move
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The term "entrenched" conveys the idea of something that is firmly established and resistant to change, aligning with option C. This suggests a deep-rooted nature, often implying that it has become a significant part of a system or belief. Option A, "in control," does not capture the essence of being deeply embedded or resistant to alteration. Option B, "strongly defended," implies a protective stance rather than a state of being firmly established. Option D, "surrounded and unable to move," suggests physical confinement rather than the figurative sense of being firmly set in place.
Which historical event shaped President Wilson's point of view?
  • A. the enactment of the Neutrality Acts
  • B. the building of the Panama Canal
  • C. the outcome of the Spanish-American War
  • D. the fighting in World War I
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

President Wilson's perspective was profoundly shaped by the fighting in World War I, as it highlighted the need for a new approach to international relations and the promotion of democracy. His commitment to a peaceful resolution and the establishment of the League of Nations stemmed from the devastation of the war. Option A, the Neutrality Acts, reflects a desire to avoid conflict, but they were enacted after Wilson's initial views were formed. Option B, the Panama Canal, was significant for U.S. expansion but did not directly influence Wilson's foreign policy. Option C, the Spanish-American War, marked an earlier phase of U.S. imperialism, contrasting with Wilson's focus on self-determination and peace.