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

Which conclusion can be drawn from the diagrams?
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  • A. The legislature is more representative of the people in a presidential democracy than in a parliamentary democracy.
  • B. The branches of government are more independent of each other in a presidential democracy than in a parliamentary democracy.
  • C. The executive branch is more accountable to the people in a parliamentary democracy than in a direct democracy.
  • D. The people are more involved in governing in a presidential democracy than in a direct democracy.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

In a presidential democracy, the separation of powers is a key feature, allowing the executive, legislative, and judicial branches to operate independently. This independence enhances checks and balances, ensuring that no single branch can dominate. Option A is incorrect as both systems aim for representation, but the degree can vary based on specific contexts rather than the type of democracy. Option C misrepresents accountability; in parliamentary systems, the executive is directly accountable to the legislature, which is elected by the people. Option D is misleading; in a direct democracy, citizens have direct involvement in governance, often more so than in a presidential system.

Other Related Questions

What is the mean number of people who became legal residents of the United States during this five-year period?
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  • A. 1,119,823
  • B. 223,504
  • C. 5,599,113
  • D. 1,107,126
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

To determine the mean number of legal residents over the five-year period, one must sum the total number of residents and divide by five. The correct calculation yields a mean of 1,119,823, reflecting the average annual influx. Option B (223,504) represents a miscalculation, likely reflecting a single year's data rather than an average. Option C (5,599,113) incorrectly totals the residents without division, suggesting a cumulative number rather than an average. Option D (1,107,126) is close but does not accurately reflect the mean, indicating a minor arithmetic error.
Which statement can be made based on both the passage and the table?
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  • A. The increase in independent voters has strengthened the influence of Democrats on the national level.
  • B. The best political campaigns of Republicans and Democrats use modern media to communicate with voters.
  • C. The most recent data shows that Republicans controlled almost three times the number of state legislatures as Democrats.
  • D. The decrease in party identification has strengthened the influence of Republicans in state legislatures.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Option B accurately reflects the information provided in both the passage and the table, highlighting the importance of modern media in effective political campaigns for both major parties. This statement emphasizes a shared strategy that transcends partisan lines, indicating a common approach to engaging voters. Option A incorrectly suggests a direct correlation between independent voters and the strengthening of Democrats, which is not supported by the data. Option C misrepresents the statistics regarding state legislature control, as the table likely shows a different ratio. Option D assumes that a decrease in party identification universally benefits Republicans, ignoring the complexities of voter behavior and preferences that the passage may address.
Based on the information in this passage, which feature of ancient Roman government most influenced the Founders in framing the U.S. Constitution?
  • A. A popularly elected representative vetoed legislation.
  • B. Magistrates proposed laws.
  • C. A system of checks and balances limited power.
  • D. Senators elected the consuls.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The feature that most influenced the Founders in framing the U.S. Constitution is the system of checks and balances, which limited the power of government branches to prevent tyranny. This principle is evident in the U.S. system, where each branch can check the others, ensuring a balance of power. Option A is incorrect because while representatives play a role in legislation, the emphasis on a veto by a popularly elected official is not a defining characteristic of Roman governance. Option B, proposing laws by magistrates, describes a function of government but does not reflect the broader concept of power limitation. Option D incorrectly focuses on the election of consuls, which is less relevant to the Founders' emphasis on checks and balances.
Which event occurred first?
  • A. Michael moved to Ohio.
  • B. Michael attained U.S. citizenship.
  • C. The IRO was created.
  • D. The UN was established.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

To determine the sequence of events, it’s essential to consider historical timelines. The United Nations (UN) was established in 1945, laying the groundwork for international cooperation. The International Refugee Organization (IRO) was created shortly after, in 1946, to address post-war refugee issues. Michael attaining U.S. citizenship likely occurred after these events, as it typically follows immigration processes. Lastly, Michael moving to Ohio would depend on his citizenship status and individual circumstances, making it the most recent event in this context.