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 excerpt is from an article published by the Library of Congress. In order to avoid factions, the Constitution grants political parties no role in [government]. Ironically, political factions sprang up right away to support the Constitution and to oppose it. By the presidential election of 1796, political parties were in place in America... Today the party system seems firmly entrenched. Some Americans might argue that there is no real difference between the ideals and political stance of today's parties. Other Americans routinely vote a "party ticket" in their belief that a particular political party will best represent their wishes for governing the nation.
What is the meaning of the word entrenched as used in this excerpt?
  • A. in control
  • B. strongly defended
  • C. established and unlikely to change
  • D. surrounded and unable to move
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The term "entrenched" conveys the idea of something that is firmly established and resistant to change, aligning with option C. This suggests a deep-rooted nature, often implying that it has become a significant part of a system or belief. Option A, "in control," does not capture the essence of being deeply embedded or resistant to alteration. Option B, "strongly defended," implies a protective stance rather than a state of being firmly established. Option D, "surrounded and unable to move," suggests physical confinement rather than the figurative sense of being firmly set in place.

Other Related Questions

Based on the timeline and the map, what was one way African Americans dealt with Jim Crow laws?
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  • A. by taking service jobs in southern cities
  • B. by seeking factory jobs in urban areas of the North
  • C. by becoming tenant farmers in other parts of the South
  • D. by gaining technical skills in northern schools
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

African Americans responded to Jim Crow laws by seeking factory jobs in urban areas of the North, as this migration offered better economic opportunities and a chance to escape oppressive conditions in the South. Option A, taking service jobs in southern cities, often perpetuated the same discriminatory practices found under Jim Crow. Option C, becoming tenant farmers in other parts of the South, did not provide significant relief from the systemic racism and economic hardship prevalent in that region. Option D, gaining technical skills in northern schools, while beneficial, was not a widespread or immediate solution compared to the mass migration to northern factories.
How did the position expressed by President Johnson differ from the position expressed by Senator Russell?
  • A. Only Senator Russell said that state governments were sufficiently protecting the rights of citizens.
  • B. Only Senator Russell supported the federal government's intervention.
  • C. Only President Johnson supported the state governments' rights to manage their own affairs.
  • D. Only President Johnson believed that the federal government was authorized to intervene.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

President Johnson emphasized the need for federal intervention to protect citizens' rights, believing that state governments were often inadequate. In contrast, Senator Russell argued that state governments were effectively safeguarding those rights, reflecting a stance of local governance. Option B is incorrect because Senator Russell did not support federal intervention. Option C misrepresents Johnson’s position; he favored federal oversight rather than state autonomy. Option D inaccurately attributes the belief in federal authority solely to Johnson, as Russell did not share this view. Thus, the distinction lies in Russell's confidence in state governments versus Johnson's call for federal action.
Which conclusion is best supported by information in the table and article?
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  • A. Individuals contributed a total amount of money equal to the total of all other sources of donations.
  • B. Individuals contributing the smallest quantity of money insignificantly impact presidential campaigns.
  • C. Individuals donated the greatest total amount although many contributions were relatively small.
  • D. Individuals have more influence on the proposed policies of presidential candidates than groups do.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Option C is supported by the data, indicating that while many individual contributions were small, they collectively formed the largest portion of total donations to presidential campaigns. This highlights the significant role individuals play despite the size of their contributions. Option A is incorrect as it suggests individuals’ contributions equaled all other sources, which is not supported by the data. Option B misrepresents the impact of smaller donations; even small contributions can collectively influence campaign funding significantly. Option D overstates individuals' influence on policy compared to groups, which often have more resources and organized lobbying power.
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.