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

The great inventor Thomas Edison received more than one thousand patents during his career and made a large contribution to how we live today. For example, in 1877, after discovering a way to record sound, Edison introduced the phonograph. In 1893 he invented the first motion-picture camera. Eight years before inventing the phonograph, Edison received his first patent for a vote recorder, which was intended to help record legislative votes quickly. The Innovation he is most known for is the electric light bulb. He filed a patent for his light bulb in 1879. Though others contributed to the invention of the light bulb, Edison's work made this invention a long-lasting, practical household item.
Which technology mentioned in the passage was the first one invented by Edison?
  • A. vote recorder
  • B. motion-picture camera
  • C. electric light bulb
  • D. phonograph
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

The vote recorder was the first technology invented by Edison, designed to streamline the voting process. This innovation predates his more famous inventions. The motion-picture camera (B) and electric light bulb (C) came later, showcasing Edison's evolution as an inventor. The phonograph (D), although significant in audio technology, was also developed after the vote recorder. Understanding the chronological order of these inventions highlights Edison's early contributions to technology and their impact on society.

Other Related Questions

Which statement from Common Sense provides evidence that the author Thomas Paine supported American independence?
  • A. "Absolute governments have this advantage with them, that they are simple..."
  • B. "I challenge the warmest advocate for reconciliation, to [show], a single advantage that this continent can reap, by being connected with Great Britain."
  • C. "The prejudice of Englishmen, in [favor] of their own government arises as much or more from national pride than reason."
  • D. "Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil."
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Option B provides clear evidence of Thomas Paine's support for American independence by challenging the benefits of remaining connected to Great Britain. By asking advocates for reconciliation to demonstrate any advantages, Paine emphasizes the futility of such ties and advocates for autonomy. Option A discusses the simplicity of absolute governments, which does not directly address the question of American independence. Option C critiques English national pride but lacks a direct link to the argument for independence. Option D presents a philosophical view on government but does not specifically advocate for breaking away from British rule.
What is the main point of view expressed in this excerpt?
  • A. The Cherokee Nation is equal to the United States in terms of trade and government.
  • B. The Cherokee Nation is dependent on the United States for basic necessities and survival.
  • C. The Cherokee Nation is dependent on the United States for guidance and protection.
  • D. The Cherokee Nation is a separate state that deals with the United States as a foreign country.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The excerpt emphasizes the Cherokee Nation's reliance on the United States for guidance and protection, reflecting a relationship where the Cherokee seek support in navigating external challenges. Option A misrepresents the dynamics by suggesting equality in trade and government, which overlooks the power imbalance. Option B, while hinting at dependence, fails to capture the broader context of guidance and protection that the Cherokee sought. Option D incorrectly frames the relationship as one of complete separation, ignoring the interdependence that characterized their interactions with the United States.
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.
How did Chief Justice Marshall contribute to the U.S. government system of checks and balances?
  • A. by establishing the Supreme Court's power to check Congress
  • B. by creating the power to remove the president from office
  • C. by expanding the president's power to check Congress
  • D. by giving the Supreme Court the power to control itself
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Chief Justice Marshall played a pivotal role in defining the Supreme Court's authority, notably through the landmark case Marbury v. Madison, which established the principle of judicial review. This empowered the Court to invalidate laws passed by Congress that it deemed unconstitutional, effectively allowing it to check legislative power. Option B is incorrect as the power to remove a president lies with Congress through impeachment, not the Supreme Court. Option C misrepresents Marshall's contributions, as he did not expand presidential power but rather clarified judicial authority. Option D is also inaccurate; the Supreme Court does not have self-regulating powers but operates within the framework of checks and balances.