hiset social studies practice test

A widely recognized high school equivalency exam, similar to the GED, designed for individuals who didn’t complete high school but want to earn a diploma-equivalent credential.

What was one reason for the U.S. Constitution establishing a bicameral legislature?
  • A. To create checks and balances within Congress
  • B. To reflect the structure of the executive and judicial branches
  • C. To divide the power of initiating bills for raising revenue
  • D. To allow the two dominant political parties an equal amount of influence
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

A bicameral legislature was established to create checks and balances within Congress, ensuring that both houses must agree on legislation, which prevents any one group from gaining excessive power. Option B is incorrect as the structure of the legislative branch does not directly mirror the executive and judicial branches; each has distinct functions. Option C is misleading; while revenue bills must originate in the House, this is not the primary reason for a bicameral system. Option D is also incorrect; the design was not specifically to balance power between political parties, but rather to enhance legislative deliberation and accountability.

Other Related Questions

Which point on this PPF graph indicates an inefficient use of the country's resources?
Question image
  • A. V
  • B. X
  • C. Y
  • D. Z
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Point A on the PPF graph indicates an inefficient use of the country's resources because it lies inside the production possibilities frontier (PPF). This suggests that the economy is not utilizing all available resources effectively, resulting in lower production levels than possible. Point B (X), C (Y), and D (Z) all lie on the PPF, indicating efficient resource use where maximum production is achieved. These points represent combinations of goods that utilize resources fully, reflecting optimal economic performance. Thus, only point A signifies inefficiency.
Which statement best describes a key aspect of the trade relationship between Grand Coast and Toland?
Question image
  • A. Grand Coast has the advantage in both timber and fish.
  • B. Toland has the comparative advantage in fish.
  • C. Toland can produce timber at a lower opportunity cost than Grand Coast.
  • D. Grand Coast can produce fish at a lower opportunity cost than Toland.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

In the context of trade relationships, opportunity cost is crucial. Grand Coast can produce fish at a lower opportunity cost than Toland, meaning it sacrifices less in terms of other goods when producing fish. This advantage allows Grand Coast to specialize in fish production, leading to more efficient trade. Option A is incorrect as it suggests Grand Coast has the advantage in both timber and fish, which is unlikely in a comparative advantage scenario. Option B misstates the comparative advantage, assigning it to Toland for fish, which contradicts the opportunity cost analysis. Option C incorrectly asserts that Toland has a lower opportunity cost for timber, which is not supported by the information provided.
Based on the obituary, what was Taylor's first job?
  • A. Gang boss
  • B. Scientist
  • C. Engineer
  • D. Manager
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Taylor's first job as a gang boss reflects an early involvement in leadership and organization, likely in a challenging environment. This position often requires strong management skills and the ability to coordinate team efforts, which can be foundational for future roles. Option B, scientist, is incorrect as it implies a formal education and specialized training that is not indicated in the obituary. Option C, engineer, suggests a technical background that does not align with the described early career path. Lastly, option D, manager, while related, does not capture the specific context of Taylor's initial role, which was more informal and associated with a gang structure.
According to Cartoon 2, how were American laborers affected by foreign laborers?
  • A. A larger supply of labor tends to drive down wages.
  • B. A growing population tends to raise the cost of living.
  • C. A growing demand for jobs tends to increase productivity.
  • D. A larger labor market tends to provide better job opportunities.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

American laborers faced wage reductions due to the influx of foreign laborers, as indicated in Cartoon 2. A larger supply of labor typically leads to increased competition for jobs, resulting in lower wages for workers. Option B incorrectly suggests that a growing population raises living costs; while this can be true, it does not directly address the impact of foreign labor on American workers' wages. Option C focuses on job demand increasing productivity, which is unrelated to the effects of foreign labor on wages. Option D claims a larger labor market provides better job opportunities, but this overlooks the wage suppression effect highlighted in the cartoon.