1.
What is the national emergency services telephone number?
Correct Answer
C. 999
Explanation
999 is the correct answer for the national emergency services telephone number. In many countries, including the United Kingdom, 999 is the emergency number that can be dialed to contact the police, fire brigade, or ambulance services. This number is widely recognized and used for emergency situations, making it the correct choice in this context.
2.
Is the following statement TRUE or FALSE?
'Three countries make up the UK.'
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement "Three countries make up the UK" is false. The United Kingdom (UK) is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each country has its own distinct identity and government, but they are all part of the UK.
3.
How many countries make up the UK?
Correct Answer
C. 4
Explanation
The UK is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each of these countries has its own distinct identity and government, but they are all part of the United Kingdom.
4.
Where is the Prime Minister's official home in London?
Correct Answer
A. Downing Street
Explanation
Downing Street is the correct answer because it is the official residence of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Located in London, Downing Street is a narrow street that houses the Prime Minister's residence at Number 10 and the Chancellor of the Exchequer's residence at Number 11. It has been the official home of the Prime Minister since the early 18th century and is a well-known symbol of British political power.
5.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
Citizens in the UK can vote in elections at the age of 18.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Citizens in the UK can vote in elections at the age of 18. This statement is true. In the United Kingdom, individuals are eligible to vote in elections once they reach the age of 18. This applies to both general elections and local elections. The voting age was lowered from 21 to 18 in 1969 through the Representation of the People Act. This change aimed to give young adults a voice in the democratic process and ensure their participation in shaping the country's future.
6.
Which of these statements is correct?
Correct Answer
A. Scottish bank notes are valid in all parts of the UK.
Explanation
Scottish bank notes are valid in all parts of the UK because while the Bank of England is the official issuer of currency in the UK, Scottish banks are also authorized to issue their own banknotes. These notes are legal currency and can be used for transactions throughout the UK. However, it is worth noting that some businesses in England may be less familiar with Scottish banknotes, leading to occasional reluctance in accepting them.
7.
Which TWO places can you go to if you need a National Insurance number?
Correct Answer(s)
C. Jobcentre Plus
D. Social security office
Explanation
You can go to the Jobcentre Plus or the Social Security office if you need a National Insurance number. These two places are responsible for handling the issuance of National Insurance numbers. The Department for Education and Skills is not involved in this process, as it primarily focuses on education-related matters. The Home Office deals with immigration and citizenship issues, but not specifically with National Insurance numbers.
8.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'In the 1980s, the largest immigrant groups were from the West Indies, Ireland, India and Pakistan.'
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
In the 1980s, the largest immigrant groups were not from the West Indies, Ireland, India, and Pakistan. Therefore, the statement is false.
9.
Why did the Huguenots come to Britain?
Correct Answer
C. To avoid religious persecution.
Explanation
The Huguenots came to Britain to avoid religious persecution. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Huguenots, who were French Protestants, faced severe persecution in France due to their religious beliefs. Many of them sought refuge in other countries, including Britain, where they could freely practice their religion without fear of persecution. This migration was driven by the desire to escape religious discrimination and establish a new life in a more tolerant society.
10.
Which of these statements is correct?
Correct Answer
A. In the 1950s, centres were setup in the West Indies to recruit bus drivers for the UK.
Explanation
In the 1950s, centers were set up in the West Indies to recruit bus drivers for the UK. This statement is correct because during this time period, there was a significant recruitment drive in the West Indies to fill the labor shortage in the UK, including the need for bus drivers. The UK government established recruitment centers in the West Indies to facilitate this process and attract individuals who were interested in working as bus drivers in the UK.
11.
Is the statement belows TRUE or FALSE?
'After the Second World War the British government invited people from Ireland and other parts of Europe to come to the UK.'
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
After the Second World War, the British government indeed invited people from Ireland and other parts of Europe to come to the UK. This was mainly due to the need for labor and to rebuild the country after the war. The government actively encouraged immigration, particularly from Ireland, to address the labor shortages and help with the reconstruction efforts. Therefore, the statement is true.
12.
Since 1979 the number of refugees from South East Asia who have been allowed to settle in the UK is:
Correct Answer
D. Over 25,000
Explanation
The correct answer is "Over 25,000". This means that since 1979, the number of refugees from South East Asia who have been allowed to settle in the UK is more than 25,000. This indicates that a significant number of refugees from this region have been granted settlement in the UK over the years.
13.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'In the UK, boys leave school on average with better qualifications than girls.'
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false. In the UK, girls actually tend to outperform boys in terms of academic qualifications. Various studies and statistics have shown that girls consistently achieve higher grades and have higher rates of progression to higher education. This trend has been observed across subjects and age groups, indicating that girls are excelling academically in the UK.
14.
Women in Britain first got the vote in:
Correct Answer
B. 1918
Explanation
In 1918, women in Britain first got the vote. This was a significant milestone in women's rights and suffrage movements. The Representation of the People Act was passed in that year, granting voting rights to women over the age of 30 who met certain property qualifications. Although not all women gained the right to vote at this time, it marked a crucial step towards gender equality and paved the way for further progress in women's rights.
15.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'In the UK, it is illegal to discrimintate against women at work because of their sex.'
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In the UK, it is illegal to discriminate against women at work because of their sex. This means that employers cannot treat women unfairly or unfavorably compared to men solely based on their gender. The law aims to promote gender equality and ensure equal opportunities for women in the workplace. Discrimination based on sex is prohibited under the Equality Act 2010, which provides legal protection against such unfair treatment.
16.
From which TWO places were people invited to come and work in the UK during the 1950s?
Correct Answer(s)
A. India
D. West Indies
Explanation
During the 1950s, the UK invited people from India and the West Indies to come and work. This was a result of labor shortages in the UK after World War II, and the UK government actively encouraged immigration from these regions to fill the gaps in the workforce. The people from India and the West Indies were invited to work in various industries such as healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing, contributing significantly to the UK's post-war economic recovery.
17.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'Women have had equal voting rights with men in the UK since 1928.'
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true. Women in the UK gained equal voting rights with men in 1928. Prior to this, there were restrictions on women's voting rights, but the Representation of the People Act of 1928 granted all women over the age of 21 the right to vote on the same terms as men. This was a significant milestone in the fight for gender equality and marked a major step forward in women's rights in the UK.
18.
In which year did married women get the right to divorce their husband?
Correct Answer
B. 1857
Explanation
In 1857, married women were granted the right to divorce their husbands. This marked a significant milestone in women's rights, as it allowed them to dissolve a marriage that may have been abusive or unhappy. Prior to this, divorce was largely inaccessible for women, and they were often trapped in unhappy marriages. The introduction of this right in 1857 was a step towards gender equality and gave women more autonomy and control over their own lives.
19.
Jewish came to Britain from Poland, Ukraine and Belarus to escape racial attacks.
Correct Answer
B. From 1880 to 1910
Explanation
During the period from 1880 to 1910, Jewish people migrated to Britain from Poland, Ukraine, and Belarus in order to escape racial attacks. This time frame corresponds to a significant increase in anti-Semitic violence and persecution in Eastern Europe, prompting many Jewish individuals and families to seek refuge in other countries, including Britain.
20.
The Irish famine was in the middle of the
Correct Answer
C. 1840s
Explanation
The Irish famine occurred in the 1840s. This was a period of widespread starvation and disease in Ireland, primarily caused by a potato blight that destroyed the main food source of the Irish population, which heavily relied on potatoes. The famine resulted in mass emigration, death, and social and economic devastation in Ireland.
21.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'In the late 1960s the government passed new laws which restricted immigration from Australia, New Zealand and Canada.'
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because in the late 1960s, the government did not pass new laws that restricted immigration from Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
22.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many women demonstrated for what right?
Correct Answer
A. The right to vote
Explanation
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, women demonstrated for the right to vote. This was a significant movement known as the women's suffrage movement, where women fought for their political rights and the ability to participate in democratic processes. They believed that they should have the same rights as men and be able to have a say in the decisions that affected their lives and their communities. The right to vote was seen as a crucial step towards achieving gender equality and empowering women to have a voice in society.
23.
What percentage of the UK workforce are women?
Correct Answer
B. 45%
Explanation
The correct answer is 45%. This means that nearly half of the UK workforce is made up of women. This statistic indicates that there has been progress in terms of gender equality in the workplace, as women are increasingly participating in the workforce. However, it also highlights that there is still work to be done to achieve full gender parity.
24.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'There are 2 million children at work in the UK at any one time.'
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true. It suggests that at any given time, there are 2 million children who are engaged in some form of work in the UK. This indicates that child labor is prevalent in the country, which can have significant social and economic implications. It is important to address this issue and ensure the well-being and rights of children are protected.
25.
The proportion of young people who go on to higher education in the UK is
Correct Answer
B. 1 in 3
Explanation
The correct answer is 1 in 3. This means that out of every three young people in the UK, one of them goes on to higher education. This indicates that higher education is becoming more accessible and that a significant proportion of young people are pursuing further education beyond secondary school.
26.
Is this statement TRUE or FALSE?
'Children often start part-time work when they are 11 years old.'
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
This statement is false. In most countries, the legal age for starting part-time work is typically higher than 11 years old. Laws regarding employment of minors vary, but generally, children are not allowed to work until they reach a certain age, which is usually around 14 or 15 years old. Starting part-time work at 11 years old is uncommon and not legally permitted in many places.
27.
Which TWO examinations do young people take at 16?
Correct Answer(s)
A. GCSE
C. SQA standard Grade
Explanation
At the age of 16, young people typically take two examinations: GCSE and SQA standard Grade. GCSE stands for General Certificate of Secondary Education and is the main qualification taken by students in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. SQA standard Grade refers to the Scottish Qualifications Authority's standard Grade exams, which are also taken by students at this age in Scotland. AGCE and SQA higher grade are not mentioned as exams taken at 16, so they are not the correct answers.
28.
A 'gap year' describes
Correct Answer
C. A year between school and university which students spend travelling and working
Explanation
A 'gap year' refers to a year that students take off between finishing school and starting university. During this time, students often choose to travel and work, gaining valuable life experiences and skills before continuing their education.
29.
Young people can vote in the UK from the age of
Correct Answer
B. 18
Explanation
In the UK, the legal voting age is 18. This means that young people can exercise their right to vote once they reach this age. This age requirement is in place to ensure that individuals have reached a level of maturity and understanding to make informed decisions when participating in the democratic process. By setting the voting age at 18, it allows young adults to have a say in shaping their country's future and have a voice in important political matters.
30.
Is this statement TRUE or FALSE?
'It is against the law to be drunk in a public place in the UK.'
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In the UK, it is indeed against the law to be drunk in a public place. This law is enforced to maintain public order and prevent disturbances or anti-social behavior that may arise from individuals being intoxicated in public. It is important for individuals to be aware of and abide by this law to avoid legal consequences.
31.
The number of children and young people up to the age of 19 in the UK is
Correct Answer
C. 15 million
Explanation
The correct answer is 15 million because it is the closest option to the average number of children and young people up to the age of 19 in the UK. While the exact number may vary, 15 million is a reasonable estimate based on population statistics and demographic trends.
32.
A 'suffragette' was
Correct Answer
B. A woman who demonstrated for greater rights
Explanation
A suffragette was a woman who demonstrated for greater rights. Suffragettes were activists who fought for women's right to vote and other political and social rights. They organized protests, marches, and other forms of civil disobedience to raise awareness and advocate for gender equality. They played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement and were instrumental in securing voting rights for women in many countries.
33.
In the UK, children must attend school until they are
Correct Answer
C. 16 years old
Explanation
In the UK, children must attend school until they are 16 years old. This is because the law in the UK states that all children must receive a full-time education until the age of 16. After this age, they have the option to continue their education in school or pursue other forms of education such as apprenticeships or vocational training.
34.
In the 1950s, textile and engineering firms sent agents to which TWO countries to find works?
Correct Answer(s)
B. India
D. Pakistan
Explanation
During the 1950s, textile and engineering firms sent agents to India and Pakistan to find workers. This was likely due to the availability of skilled labor in these countries, as well as the lower cost of production compared to other countries. India and Pakistan were known for their textile industries and engineering expertise, making them attractive destinations for these firms to recruit workers and expand their operations.
35.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'The number of people migrating to Britain from the West Indies, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh increased during the late 1960s and early 1970s.'
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false. The number of people migrating to Britain from the West Indies, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh actually increased during the late 1940s and early 1950s, not the late 1960s and early 1970s. This period is commonly referred to as the "Windrush era" when many individuals from these regions migrated to Britain in search of better opportunities.
36.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'In the UK, women are often asked by employers to leave their jobs when they get married.'
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false. In the UK, it is illegal for employers to ask women to leave their jobs when they get married. This practice is considered discriminatory and goes against the principles of equality and fairness in the workplace. The Equality Act 2010 protects individuals from discrimination based on their marital status, ensuring that employees cannot be treated unfairly or differently because they are married.
37.
By what percentage is the average hourly pay of women lower than men's?
Correct Answer
D. 20%
Explanation
The correct answer is 20% because it states that the average hourly pay of women is lower than men's. A percentage decrease is calculated by taking the difference between the two values and dividing it by the original value, then multiplying by 100. In this case, the difference is the average hourly pay of men minus the average hourly pay of women. Dividing this difference by the average hourly pay of men and multiplying by 100 gives a result of 20%, indicating that the average hourly pay of women is 20% lower than men's.
38.
Children in England and Scotland take national tests
Correct Answer
C. At 7, 11 and 14
Explanation
The correct answer is "at 7, 11 and 14". This is because children in England and Scotland take national tests at the ages of 7, 11, and 14.
39.
Which of these statements in correct?
Correct Answer
B. It is illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone under 18 years of age.
Explanation
The correct answer is "It is illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone under 18 years of age." This statement is correct because in many countries and jurisdictions, the legal age to purchase and consume tobacco products is 18 years old. Selling tobacco to individuals under this age is considered illegal due to health concerns and the potential harm it can cause to young people.
40.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'There are more women than men in Britain.'
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement "There are more women than men in Britain" is true. This is supported by demographic data which consistently shows that there is a slightly higher number of females than males in the population of Britain. This can be attributed to various factors such as longer life expectancy for women, as well as differences in birth rates and migration patterns.
41.
How many women with children at school are in paid work?
Correct Answer
D. Nearly three-quarters
Explanation
Nearly three-quarters of women with children at school are in paid work. This means that a significant majority of women with school-aged children are employed. It indicates that a large proportion of mothers are balancing their responsibilities as parents with their professional careers. This statistic highlights the increasing trend of women's participation in the workforce and their ability to successfully manage both work and family life.
42.
The initials GCSE stand for
Correct Answer
C. General Certificate of Secondary Education
Explanation
The correct answer is "General Certificate of Secondary Education" because GCSE is an abbreviation used in the United Kingdom to refer to the qualification that students typically take at the age of 16 after completing their secondary education. It is a widely recognized qualification that assesses students' academic abilities and is used as a benchmark for further education or employment opportunities.
43.
What proportion of the population of Britain have used illegal drugs at one time?
Correct Answer
C. About a third
Explanation
Approximately a third of the population of Britain have used illegal drugs at one time. This suggests that a significant portion of the population has engaged in drug use, although it does not specify the specific types or frequency of drug use. It indicates that drug use is not uncommon in Britain, but it also implies that the majority of the population has not engaged in such behavior.
44.
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
'Half of young people have taken part in fundraising or collecting for charity'.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because it claims that half of young people have taken part in fundraising or collecting for charity, which is not supported by any evidence or data. Without any statistics or research to back up this claim, it cannot be considered true.
45.
In th 2001 general election, how many first-time voters used their vote?
Correct Answer
B. 1 in 5
Explanation
The correct answer is 1 in 5. This means that out of all the first-time voters in the 2001 general election, one out of every five individuals used their vote.
46.
AS levels are gained by completing
Correct Answer
A. Three AS units
Explanation
To gain AS levels, students need to complete three AS units. AS units are specific modules or subjects that students study at the Advanced Subsidiary (AS) level. By completing three of these units, students can earn an AS level qualification. This is different from GCSEs, which are gained by completing a different set of units and require four GCSEs to achieve a qualification.
47.
In 2001 the population of the UK was nearly
Correct Answer
C. 60 million
Explanation
In 2001, the population of the UK was approximately 60 million. This means that there were around 60 million people living in the UK during that year.
48.
Which TWO of the following statistics does the census collect?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Age
D. Occupation
Explanation
The census collects data on age and occupation. Age is an important demographic statistic that helps in understanding the population distribution and planning for services. Occupation data provides insights into the workforce and helps in analyzing employment trends and making informed policy decisions. Height and weight are not typically collected by the census as they are not relevant to the purpose of the census, which is to gather demographic and social data.
49.
Is the following statement TRUE or FALSE?
'There are more children under 16 in Britain than people over 60.'
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because there are more people over 60 in Britain than children under 16.
50.
In 2001, ethnic minority groups made up
Correct Answer
B. Between 5 and 10% of the population of England
Explanation
In 2001, ethnic minority groups made up between 5 and 10% of the population of England. This means that the percentage of people belonging to ethnic minority groups in England during that time was somewhere between 5% and 10%. It indicates that there was a significant presence of ethnic minority groups, but they did not make up the majority of the population.