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 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.

Other Related Questions

Complete the U.S. System of Federalism chart based on information from the passage. Click on the title below you want to select and drag it into the top of each column in the chart. - State Government Powers - National Government Powers - Shared Powers of National and State Governments -
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Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer:

In the U.S. system of federalism, powers are distributed among different levels of government. **State Government Powers** include authority over education, transportation, and local law enforcement, allowing states to address local needs effectively. **National Government Powers** encompass defense, foreign affairs, and immigration, ensuring a unified national policy in these critical areas. **Shared Powers** involve taxation, infrastructure, and law enforcement, illustrating collaboration between state and national governments to maintain order and promote welfare. Other options may misplace powers or overlook the collaborative nature of federalism, leading to misunderstandings about government functions.
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.
Which prediction is supported by both graphs?
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  • A. The average wage for farm workers will decrease..
  • B. The average cost for agricultural produce will decrease.
  • C. The operating cost of running a farm will increase.
  • D. The number of people required for producing food will increase.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Option C is supported by both graphs, indicating an upward trend in operational costs due to factors like inflation and increased resource prices. This aligns with economic patterns observed in the agricultural sector. Option A is incorrect as both graphs do not show a decline in farm worker wages; rather, they suggest stability or growth. Option B is misleading; the graphs do not reflect a decrease in agricultural produce costs, which often correlate with rising operational expenses. Option D is also unsupported, as the data does not indicate an increase in labor requirements, but rather highlights efficiency improvements in farming practices.
According to Justice Marshall, what historical factor has contradicted the ideas expressed in the U.S. Constitution?
  • A. slavery
  • B. free enterprise
  • C. religion
  • D. class war
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Justice Marshall highlighted slavery as a significant historical contradiction to the principles of freedom and equality enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. Slavery directly undermined the Constitution's assertion that all men are created equal, creating a profound moral and ethical conflict. In contrast, free enterprise (B) aligns with the Constitution's emphasis on individual rights and economic freedom. Religion (C) is protected under the First Amendment, promoting freedom rather than contradiction. Class war (D) is a socio-economic conflict that, while relevant, does not directly challenge the foundational ideals of the Constitution in the same way slavery does.