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 passage contains information about the concept of sustainability. What does the word "sustainability" mean? "Sustainability" means using natural resources responsibly so that they are available to future generations. Sustainability seeks to balance economic, environmental, and societal challenges and opportunities. For example, to achieve sustainability a business will not view profit only in terms of dollars. Energy companies will ask what impact their operation has on humans, wildlife, land, and water. The ill-advised rush to extract new discoveries of shale oil and natural gas is a case in point. These resources will earn millions of dollars and create many jobs. However, if the result is polluted water and ghost towns, it is not a sustainable model.
Which statement from the passage is an opinion?
  • A. "The ill-advised rush to extract new discoveries of shale oil and natural gas is a case in point."
  • B. "...if the result is polluted water and ghost towns, it is not a sustainable model."
  • C. “‘Sustainability' means using natural resources responsibly so that they are available to future generations."
  • D. "... to achieve sustainability a business will not view profit only in terms of dollars."
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Option A expresses a subjective viewpoint about the extraction of shale oil and natural gas, labeling it as "ill-advised." This indicates a personal judgment rather than an objective fact. In contrast, Option B presents a consequence of unsustainable practices, framing it as a logical outcome rather than an opinion. Option C defines "sustainability" in a factual manner, outlining its meaning without personal bias. Lastly, Option D describes a business approach towards sustainability, focusing on a principle rather than expressing a personal belief. Thus, A stands out as the only statement rooted in opinion.

Other Related Questions

Which statement identifies a purpose of Roosevelt's speech?
  • A. to convince his audience that preserving the environment is as important as national security
  • B. to convince his audience that preserving the environment is the responsibility of ordinary citizens
  • C. to gain support for using public lands to obtain vital productive resources
  • D. to gain support for a candidate who wants to preserve the environment
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Option A effectively captures Roosevelt's emphasis on the interconnectedness of environmental preservation and national security. He aimed to highlight that a healthy environment is crucial for the nation's well-being and stability. Option B is incorrect as Roosevelt’s speech focuses more on broader national priorities rather than individual responsibilities. Option C misinterprets the message; while resource management is important, the speech primarily advocates for environmental preservation rather than exploitation. Option D is misleading; Roosevelt's speech is not about promoting a candidate but rather advocating for a national commitment to environmental stewardship.
Based on the excerpt, which change was a result of the National Security Act of 1947?
  • A. The Central Intelligence Agency replaced the War Department.
  • B. The National Security Council gained control over the Department of Defense.
  • C. The Department of Homeland Security replaced the War Department.
  • D. The Department of the Navy became part of the Department of Defense.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The National Security Act of 1947 reorganized the U.S. military and intelligence community. Option D accurately reflects that the Department of the Navy became part of the newly established Department of Defense, streamlining military operations. Option A is incorrect; the CIA was created but did not replace the War Department directly. Option B is misleading; while the National Security Council was established, it does not control the Department of Defense. Option C is factually incorrect, as the Department of Homeland Security was created later, in 2003, not as a result of the 1947 Act.
According to this graph, in which year did the U.S. government first achieve a budget surplus?
Question image
  • A. 1996
  • B. 1994
  • C. 1998
  • D. 2002
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The graph indicates that the U.S. government first achieved a budget surplus in 1998, as evidenced by the line crossing above the zero mark in that year. Option A (1996) shows a deficit, as the line remains below zero. Option B (1994) also reflects a deficit, indicating that the government had not yet balanced its budget. Option D (2002) is incorrect as it depicts a return to deficit after a surplus, confirming that the surplus was achieved earlier in 1998. Thus, 1998 is the first year when the budget surplus was realized.
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.