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 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.
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.
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.
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.