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

These statements are from Essentials of Americanization, a book by soclology professor Emory S. Bogardus. The Americanization movement had its primary, or immediate, origin in 1914 when... a renaissance of nationalism occurred throughout the civilized world. Americanization begins with an examination of American traits and ends with... an assimilation movement... We may consider the Mayflower Compact as the initial statement of Americanism... and Theodore Roosevelt's and Woodrow Wilson's recent addresses as modern revisions.... Our national purpose must be clearly stated, taught to our people, and accepted throughout the land.... It will be necessary continually to shun... autocracy, imperialism, ambition for world domination, [and] Injustice in dealing with weak nations, classes, or persons. [The United States] must transform her imperfect democracy, not into another strong nation-state... but into a perfected democracy dedicated to the task of pushing forward the principles of democracy throughout the world.
Which historical event most likely shaped the author's point of view?
  • A. the development of the concept of Manifest Destiny
  • B. the United States' involvement in World War I
  • C. the United States' internal conflicts during the Great Depression
  • D. the calls for social reform during Prohibition
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

The author's perspective is significantly influenced by the United States' involvement in World War I, as this event marked a pivotal shift in national identity and global engagement. The war prompted discussions about democracy, freedom, and the role of the U.S. on the world stage, shaping the author's views on these themes. Option A, Manifest Destiny, pertains to 19th-century expansionism, which is less relevant to the author's context. Option C, the Great Depression, focuses on economic struggles rather than the broader geopolitical implications of war. Option D, social reform during Prohibition, addresses domestic issues but does not encompass the global impact and ideological shifts brought about by World War I.

Other Related Questions

Which statement best explains the situation described in the paragraphs?
  • A. Crude oil prices in 2014 encouraged U.S. families to buy less gasoline in 2015.
  • B. Crude oil production levels have caused U.S. gasoline prices to fall.
  • C. Greater crude oil reserves have caused the U.S. government to reduce gasoline prices.
  • D. Lower crude oil production will cause U.S. gasoline prices to return to 2014 levels by 2016.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Option B accurately reflects the relationship between crude oil production levels and gasoline prices. Increased production typically leads to lower prices, as supply outstrips demand. Option A incorrectly suggests a direct correlation between crude oil prices in 2014 and gasoline purchases in 2015, neglecting the influence of production levels. Option C misrepresents the role of reserves; while greater reserves can impact prices, it is production levels that directly affect market prices. Option D speculates on future price increases due to lower production, which is uncertain and not directly supported by the information provided.
Which feature of the U.S. system of government did de Tocqueville believe might cause conflict in society?
  • A. The majority is able to achieve special rights.
  • B. The minority is able to block popular legislation.
  • C. Legislators must represent minority interests.
  • D. Legislators sometimes act against majority rule.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

De Tocqueville observed that when the majority in a democracy can impose its will, it might lead to the oppression of minority groups, creating societal conflict. This reflects his concern about "tyranny of the majority," where the dominant group's interests overshadow the rights of others. Option B is incorrect because while minorities can influence legislation, de Tocqueville focused more on majority power. Option C misrepresents his views; he acknowledged the importance of minority representation but did not see it as a source of conflict. Option D is also inaccurate, as de Tocqueville emphasized the potential for the majority to dominate rather than legislators opposing the majority.
Which basic assumption is only behind the speech?
  • A. Freedom of speech must be protected in schools.
  • B. Citizens can express their views through symbols.
  • C. Citizens should be able to express their views on issues.
  • D. Freedom of speech has some restrictions
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The assumption that freedom of speech has some restrictions is solely focused on the speech itself, acknowledging that while individuals have the right to express themselves, this right is not absolute. Option A discusses the protection of speech specifically in schools, which implies a context rather than the nature of speech itself. Option B refers to expression through symbols, indicating non-verbal communication, thus not limited to speech. Option C emphasizes the ability to express views on issues broadly, again not confined to speech alone. Each of these options extends beyond the core principle of speech restrictions.
Based on the excerpt, which conclusion can be drawn about the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights?
  • A. Ratification of the Bill of Rights was completed before the Constitution was drafted.
  • B. Ratification of the Constitution was dependent on the passage of the Bill of Rights.
  • C. Most leaders were worried that the Bill of Rights would weaken the ruling class protected by the Constitution.
  • D. Many leaders were concerned that the Bill of Rights would upset the balance of powers outlined in the Constitution.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

The conclusion that ratification of the Constitution was dependent on the passage of the Bill of Rights is supported by historical context, as many states required assurance of individual rights to approve the Constitution. Option A is incorrect because the Bill of Rights was introduced after the Constitution was drafted. Option C misrepresents the intent of the Bill of Rights; leaders were primarily concerned with protecting individual liberties rather than preserving the ruling class. Option D is also inaccurate, as the Bill of Rights aimed to safeguard citizens' rights without disrupting the balance of powers established by the Constitution.