1.
Which of these is the main function of the legislative branch?
Correct Answer
A. To make laws
Explanation
The main function of the legislative branch is to make laws. This branch of government is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing laws that govern the country. They have the authority to create new laws, amend existing laws, and repeal outdated laws. The legislative branch plays a crucial role in ensuring that the laws of the land reflect the needs and values of the society it represents. They are separate from the executive branch, which enforces laws, and the judicial branch, which interprets laws.
2.
State Populations
Texas: 23,507,783
Florida: 18,089,880
Michigan: 10,095,643
Missouri: 5,842,713
According to the chart, which state has the largest delegation in the United
States House of Representatives
Correct Answer
D. Texas
Explanation
Texas has the largest delegation in the United States House of Representatives because it has the highest population among the given states. With a population of 23,507,783, Texas has more representatives in the House compared to Florida, Michigan, and Missouri. The size of a state's delegation is determined by its population, with more populous states having more representatives to ensure fair representation in the House.
3.
Which best explains why groups may hold meetings to discuss unpopular
ideas in the United States?
Correct Answer
C. Constitutional rights protect their actions.
Explanation
Groups may hold meetings to discuss unpopular ideas in the United States because constitutional rights protect their actions. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, assembly, and association, allowing individuals and groups to express their opinions, even if they are unpopular or controversial. This protection ensures that groups can openly discuss and debate unpopular ideas without fear of government interference or censorship.
4.
2000 Presidential Election
Percentage of Eligible Voters Who Cast a Ballot
18–24 Years Old 29%
All Voters 55%
Which of these can best be concluded from the information in the chart?
Correct Answer
C. Many young people neglected their civic responsibilities.
Explanation
Many young people neglected their civic responsibilities can best be concluded from the information in the chart because the percentage of eligible voters who cast a ballot in the 18-24 age group is significantly lower (29%) compared to the overall percentage of all voters (55%). This suggests that a large portion of young people did not exercise their right to vote, indicating neglect of their civic responsibilities.
5.
Mason thinks he has a great idea for a law. What is the best action for
Mason to take to get the law passed?
Correct Answer
D. Contact his representative in Congress about his idea
Explanation
Mason should contact his representative in Congress about his idea in order to get the law passed. This is the best action because representatives in Congress are responsible for making and passing laws. By directly contacting his representative, Mason can express his idea and potentially gain support for it. This is a more effective approach compared to posting opinions on a website or talking with a friend, as contacting the representative directly increases the chances of his idea being considered and potentially turned into a law. Writing a letter to the editor of the local paper could also help raise awareness, but contacting the representative directly is the most direct and influential action.
6.
Which example best demonstrates a change in government involvement in
the economy?
Correct Answer
B. Creation of the Social Security Administration
Explanation
The creation of the Social Security Administration best demonstrates a change in government involvement in the economy. This is because the establishment of the Social Security Administration represents a significant expansion of the government's role in providing social welfare and economic support to its citizens. It involves the government taking on the responsibility of providing financial assistance and retirement benefits to individuals, which directly impacts the economy by redistributing wealth and ensuring social stability.
7.
Which is a result of having a political system dominated by two political
parties?
Correct Answer
A. It is easier to obtain a majority of votes.
Explanation
Having a political system dominated by two political parties makes it easier to obtain a majority of votes because the majority of voters tend to align themselves with one of the two major parties. This is because the two-party system creates a clear and distinct choice for voters, making it more likely for one of the parties to secure a majority of votes. In contrast, in a multi-party system, the votes are often more fragmented among various parties, making it more difficult for any single party to obtain a majority.
8.
The Articles of Confederation represented the
Correct Answer
B. First attempt at self-government in the United States
Explanation
The Articles of Confederation were the first attempt at self-government in the United States. This document, adopted in 1781, established a weak central government with limited powers and gave most authority to the individual states. It served as the framework for governing the newly independent colonies during the Revolutionary War and the early years of the United States. However, it soon became clear that the Articles had many weaknesses and were ineffective in addressing the needs of the nation. This led to the drafting and adoption of the Constitution in 1787, which replaced the Articles and created a stronger federal government.
9.
Which issue is exclusively the responsibility of federal law?
Correct Answer
D. Counterfeit money
Explanation
Counterfeit money is exclusively the responsibility of federal law because it involves the production and distribution of fake currency, which is a federal crime. The federal government has the authority to regulate and prosecute individuals involved in counterfeiting money in order to protect the integrity of the national currency and the economy as a whole. State laws may also address counterfeit money, but federal law takes precedence in this matter.
10.
Congress is prohibited from establishing an official religion by the
Correct Answer
A. First Amendment
Explanation
The First Amendment of the United States Constitution prohibits Congress from establishing an official religion. This amendment ensures the separation of church and state, protecting individuals' freedom of religion and preventing the government from favoring or promoting any specific religious beliefs. It guarantees the right to religious freedom and prevents the government from interfering with or endorsing any particular religious practices.
11.
Which person is a member of the legislative branch?
Correct Answer
B. Speaker of the House
Explanation
The Speaker of the House is a member of the legislative branch because they hold a position within the United States Congress. As the presiding officer of the House of Representatives, the Speaker plays a crucial role in the legislative process, including setting the agenda, guiding debates, and influencing the passage of legislation. This position is specifically designated within the legislative branch, making it the correct answer.
12.
Which feature of ancient Rome made it a republic?
Correct Answer
B. Rule by elected representatives
Explanation
The feature of ancient Rome that made it a republic was the rule by elected representatives. In a republic, the power is held by the people and their elected representatives, rather than by a monarch or emperor. This system allowed for the citizens of Rome to have a voice in their government and participate in decision-making through the election of officials. It promoted a sense of democracy and ensured that power was not concentrated in the hands of a single ruler.
13.
The expansion of suffrage in the United States best illustrates society’s
changing views of
Correct Answer
A. Civil rights
Explanation
The expansion of suffrage in the United States refers to the gradual increase in the right to vote to a broader range of individuals, including women and minorities. This expansion demonstrates society's changing views of civil rights, as it reflects a growing recognition of the importance of equal rights and opportunities for all citizens. It signifies a shift towards inclusivity and equality, highlighting the evolving understanding of civil rights in American society.
14.
Which part of the Connecticut (or Great) Compromise benefi ts states with
smaller populations?
Correct Answer
A. Each state has two representatives in the Senate.
Explanation
The part of the Connecticut (or Great) Compromise that benefits states with smaller populations is that each state has two representatives in the Senate. This ensures that each state, regardless of its population size, has equal representation in the Senate. This is advantageous for smaller states as it gives them an equal voice and influence in the legislative process, balancing out the power of larger states with larger populations.
15.
Mexico has a governmental system in which the power is divided
between the national government and each state.
Based on the information above, what type of government system does
Mexico have?
Correct Answer
C. Federalism
Explanation
Mexico has a federalism government system. This means that power is divided between the national government and each state. In a federalism system, both the national government and state governments have their own separate powers and responsibilities, and they share power and authority. This allows for a balance of power and allows each state to have some level of autonomy while still being part of a larger national government.
16.
• 1980: Candy Lightner establishes Mothers Against Drunk Driving
(MADD) to advocate for strong drunk driving laws
• 1988: Minimum drinking age set at twenty-one in all fi fty states
• 1992: Alcohol-related driving deaths drop 26 percent since 1984
The best title for the chart is
Correct Answer
D. How an Individual Citizen Helped Improve Community Safety
Explanation
The correct answer is "How an Individual Citizen Helped Improve Community Safety." This title accurately reflects the information provided in the chart, which highlights the efforts of Candy Lightner in establishing Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and the subsequent decrease in alcohol-related driving deaths. The other options do not accurately capture the main focus of the chart.
17.
Which statement best describes a function of interest groups?
Correct Answer
C. They advocate for citizens who have similar ideas about issues.
Explanation
Interest groups are organizations that are formed by individuals who share common interests or goals. The main function of interest groups is to advocate for these citizens and their ideas about various issues. They work to influence public policy, lobby government officials, and raise awareness about their cause. Interest groups do not typically nominate candidates for office or attempt to override presidential actions through protests. While they may organize public education forums, their main focus is on advocating for their members and their shared ideas.
18.
Enlightenment-era political philosophers such as Hobbes, Locke,
Rousseau, and Montesquieu
Correct Answer
C. EmpHasized governmental structures based on reason and social progress
Explanation
During the Enlightenment era, political philosophers like Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Montesquieu advocated for governmental structures that were grounded in reason and social progress. They believed that governments should be based on rationality and the improvement of society, rather than adhering to traditional social customs or strict obedience to religious scripture. These philosophers emphasized the importance of using reason and logic to create a just and fair society, and they advocated for governments that would prioritize the well-being and progress of the people.
19.
Which of these circumstances illustrates a danger of majority rule?
Correct Answer
B. A law is used to oppress a group of people.
Explanation
The circumstance that illustrates a danger of majority rule is when a law is used to oppress a group of people. This implies that the majority, who have the power to make decisions, can use their authority to discriminate against or harm a minority group. This highlights the potential for the abuse of power and the violation of the rights and freedoms of individuals who may not have the same level of influence or representation.
20.
Mr. Leonard was not required to testify at his own trial for armed
robbery.
This is known as
Correct Answer
D. Right against self-incrimination
Explanation
Mr. Leonard was not required to testify at his own trial for armed robbery because of his right against self-incrimination. This right allows individuals to refuse to answer questions or provide evidence that may incriminate themselves. By exercising this right, Mr. Leonard avoided the risk of saying something that could be used against him in court. The right against self-incrimination is an important legal protection that ensures individuals are not forced to testify against themselves and helps maintain fairness in the criminal justice system.
21.
Which of these received increased authority under the reserved powers
clause of the Constitution?
Correct Answer
A. States
Explanation
Under the reserved powers clause of the Constitution, the states received increased authority. This means that certain powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states. This allows the states to have more control and decision-making power over various issues within their own jurisdiction.
22.
Some people believe that the Supreme Court has too much power because
justices
Correct Answer
D. Serve until they die or choose to retire
Explanation
The fact that Supreme Court justices serve until they die or choose to retire can be seen as a reason why some people believe that the Supreme Court has too much power. This is because the lifetime tenure of justices allows them to hold their positions for an extended period of time, potentially influencing the court's decisions and policies for decades. Critics argue that this lack of term limits can lead to an imbalance of power and hinder the ability to bring in fresh perspectives and ideas to the court.
23.
Which headline best illustrates an example of checks and balances?
Correct Answer
C. “Senate Confi rms New Chief Justice”
Explanation
The headline "Senate Confirms New Chief Justice" best illustrates an example of checks and balances because it demonstrates the role of the Senate in the confirmation process for a key position in the judiciary. The confirmation of a Chief Justice by the Senate is a key check on the power of the President, ensuring that the appointment is subject to the approval of another branch of government. This headline highlights the system of checks and balances in action, as the Senate exercises its power to confirm or reject the President's nominee for Chief Justice.
24.
“Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not
perish from the earth.”
—President Abraham Lincoln, 1863Which is the best conclusion about President Lincoln’s quotation?
Correct Answer
C. He supported a republic.
Explanation
President Lincoln's quotation emphasizes the idea of a government that is "of the people, by the people, for the people." This phrase is often associated with the concept of a republic, where power rests with the citizens who elect representatives to govern on their behalf. By stating that the government "shall not perish from the earth," Lincoln expresses his support for the continuation and preservation of a republic. This conclusion is supported by the context of the quotation and Lincoln's role as the President of the United States during a time when the country was engaged in a civil war to uphold the principles of democracy and the republic.
25.
The most important role of the Electoral College is to
Correct Answer
B. Vote for the president and vice president
Explanation
The Electoral College's most important role is to vote for the president and vice president. This is done through a system where each state is allocated a certain number of electors based on their representation in Congress. These electors then cast their votes for the candidates who have won the popular vote in their respective states. The candidate who receives a majority of the electoral votes becomes the president. This system ensures that smaller states have a voice in the election process and prevents the president from being elected solely based on the popular vote.
26.
Chris challenged the law in his home state that allowed the chief of
police to identify him as “a dangerous driver” based on observation.
This classifi cation denied him the right to renew his driver’s license.
Chris successfully argued that he was entitled to a hearing before the
state could post his name on the dangerous driver list.
Which constitutional principle does the scenario represent?
Correct Answer
B. Due process of law
Explanation
The scenario represents the constitutional principle of due process of law. This principle ensures that individuals are entitled to fair treatment and protection of their rights by the government. In this case, Chris argued that he should have the opportunity to present his case and defend himself before being classified as a dangerous driver. This aligns with the idea of due process, which requires that individuals be given a fair hearing and an opportunity to be heard before any adverse action is taken against them.
27.
Which activity of an interest group for teachers would have the most
signifi cant political impact?
Correct Answer
D. Lobbying elected officials to enact new education laws
Explanation
Lobbying elected officials to enact new education laws would have the most significant political impact for an interest group for teachers. This activity involves actively advocating for specific policies and laws that directly affect the education system. By engaging in lobbying efforts, the interest group can directly influence the decision-making process and potentially shape the future of education policies. This activity allows the group to have a direct impact on the political landscape and potentially bring about significant changes in the education sector.
28.
“No freeman shall be taken, or imprisoned, . . . or in any way harmed . . .
save by the lawful judgment of his peers, or by the law of the land. . . .
To none will we sell, to none deny or delay, right or justice.”
—Magna Carta, 1215
According to the statement in the chart, which constitutional guarantee is
most related to the Magna Carta?
Correct Answer
B. Rights of the accused
Explanation
The statement from the Magna Carta emphasizes the protection of individual freedoms and rights, specifically stating that no freeman shall be taken, imprisoned, or harmed without lawful judgment or due process. This aligns closely with the constitutional guarantee of the rights of the accused, which ensures that individuals accused of a crime have the right to a fair trial, legal representation, and protection against unjust treatment.
29.
In order for a bill to become law, what happens after both houses of
Congress pass it?
Correct Answer
A. The president signs it.
Explanation
After both houses of Congress pass a bill, the next step is for the president to sign it. This is the final stage in the legislative process before a bill becomes law. The president's signature indicates their approval and support for the bill, and once signed, it becomes legally binding. The Supreme Court's role is to interpret laws, not to review or sign them, so the option "The Supreme Court interprets it" is not correct.
30.
“It is equally evident, that the members of each department should be
as little dependent as possible on those of the others . . . . Were the
executive magistrate, or the judges, not independent of the legislature
in this particular, their independence in every other would be merely
nominal.”
—Federalist No. 51
Which constitutional principle is described in the quotation?
Correct Answer
D. Separation of powers
Explanation
The quotation describes the principle of separation of powers. It emphasizes the need for each department (executive, legislative, and judicial) to be independent and not dependent on each other. This principle ensures that power is not concentrated in one branch of government, but rather divided among different branches, preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful and potentially abusing their authority.
31.
What happens when a state law confl icts with a federal law?
Correct Answer
D. The state must yield to the federal government.
Explanation
When a state law conflicts with a federal law, the state must yield to the federal government. This means that the state law is invalidated and cannot be enforced, as federal law takes precedence over state law. The Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution establishes that federal law is the supreme law of the land, and any state law that contradicts it is considered unconstitutional. Therefore, the state government cannot enforce its own law in such cases.
32.
“The most powerful, and perhaps the only, means of interesting men
in the welfare of their country which we still possess is to make them
partakers in the government.”
—Alexis de Tocqueville
Which statement best refl ects Tocqueville’s point of view?
Correct Answer
B. Taking an active role in society will help promote contributions to a nation.
Explanation
Tocqueville's point of view is best reflected in the statement "Taking an active role in society will help promote contributions to a nation." This statement aligns with Tocqueville's belief that involving individuals in the government and the welfare of their country is crucial. By actively participating in society, individuals can contribute to the betterment of their nation. This supports Tocqueville's idea that making people partakers in the government is a powerful means of interesting them in the welfare of their country.
33.
Which executive action best demonstrates a check on legislative branch
power?
Correct Answer
C. The president vetoes a bill passed by Congress.
Explanation
The president vetoing a bill passed by Congress is the best demonstration of a check on legislative branch power. This action allows the president to reject a bill that has been approved by the legislative branch, thereby preventing it from becoming law. By exercising this power, the president can influence the legislative process and ensure that any potential legislation aligns with their own priorities and agenda. This serves as a direct check on the power of the legislative branch, as it requires their cooperation and agreement in order for the bill to become law.
34.
• Under the Articles of Confederation, taxes were applied by Congress
and collected by the states.
• Under the Constitution, taxes are both applied and collected by
Congress.
Which of these best describes the change in government refl ected in the
chart?
Correct Answer
D. Expanding political power of the national government
Explanation
The change in government reflected in the chart is the expanding political power of the national government. Under the Articles of Confederation, taxes were applied by Congress but collected by the states, indicating a limited role for the national government. However, under the Constitution, taxes are both applied and collected by Congress, demonstrating an increase in the authority and power of the national government in taxation matters. This shift signifies the expansion of political power at the national level.
35.
In a presidential form of government, the head of the executive branch is
Correct Answer
A. Elected independently from the legislative branch and serves a fixed term
Explanation
In a presidential form of government, the head of the executive branch is elected independently from the legislative branch and serves a fixed term. This means that the president is chosen by the people through a separate election process, and their term in office is predetermined and cannot be extended. This separation of powers ensures a system of checks and balances, as the president is not directly accountable to the legislative branch and can exercise their executive powers without interference from the legislature.
36.
Which of these situations illustrates citizens responsibly practicing the
freedoms of a democratic society?
Correct Answer
D. Miko and some friends picket the local shoe factory because of recent layoffs.
Explanation
Miko and some friends picketing the local shoe factory because of recent layoffs illustrates citizens responsibly practicing the freedoms of a democratic society. Picketing is a form of peaceful protest and expression of their dissatisfaction with the factory's actions. This action allows them to exercise their freedom of speech and assembly, which are fundamental rights in a democratic society. The other situations, such as arguing loudly, making false accusations, or causing disturbance in a residential area, do not demonstrate responsible practice of democratic freedoms.
37.
Which interest group would most likely oppose eliminating the social
security system?
Correct Answer
D. American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)
Explanation
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) would most likely oppose eliminating the social security system because it is an organization that represents the interests of retired individuals. The social security system provides financial support and benefits for retired individuals, and eliminating it would negatively impact the members of AARP. They would advocate for the preservation and improvement of the social security system to ensure the financial security of retired individuals.
38.
Which of these is an example of popular sovereignty?
Correct Answer
B. Some states decided to prohibit slavery by a vote of residents.
Explanation
Some states deciding to prohibit slavery by a vote of residents is an example of popular sovereignty because it demonstrates the power of the people to make decisions and determine the laws and policies of their own states. Popular sovereignty is the principle that the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the people, and this example illustrates the exercise of that authority through a democratic process.
39.
Since the 1960s, which political party in the United States most closely
represents the views of conservative voters?
Correct Answer
B. Republican Party
Explanation
The Republican Party is the correct answer because since the 1960s, it has been associated with conservative views and policies. The party has generally advocated for limited government intervention, lower taxes, and a focus on individual liberties and free-market principles. This aligns with the values and beliefs of conservative voters in the United States.
40.
Which view of presidential power led to the Twenty-Second Amendment?
Correct Answer
D. Term limits are needed to keep any one president from growing too powerful.
Explanation
The Twenty-Second Amendment, which limits the president to two terms in office, was introduced as a response to concerns about a president becoming too powerful. By imposing term limits, it prevents any one president from holding office for an extended period and accumulating too much power. This amendment aims to ensure a balance of power and prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual.