Free Social Studies Practice Test 15

In response to the economic challenges, the local government of Greenfield introduced several economic development programs. These initiatives aimed to revitalize the town by attracting a diverse range of new industries in hopes of creating more job opportunities and stimulating economic growth.

What can be considered an ‘effect’ of the economic development programs implemented by the local government?

The environmental movement of the late 20th century brought about significant changes in public policy and awareness regarding conservation and sustainability. Many activists and scientists advocated for stronger regulations to protect natural resources. In 1970, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established to enforce these regulations. Dr. Green said, “I believe these measures are the best way to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.” Many industries resisted these changes, arguing that they would harm economic growth. Despite the opposition, these environmental regulations are ultimately the best way to protect our natural resources.

Which statement from the article shows the author’s bias?

• A) “Dr. Green said, ‘I believe these measures are the best way to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.’”
• B) “Despite the opposition, these environmental regulations are ultimately the best way to protect our natural resources.”
• C) “In 1970, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established to enforce these regulations.”
• D) “Many industries resisted these changes, arguing that they would harm economic growth.”

This excerpt is from Article III, Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution:

The judicial Power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The Judges, both of the supreme and inferior Courts, shall hold their Offices during good Behaviour, and shall, at stated Times, receive for their Services, a Compensation, which shall not be diminished during their Continuance in Office.

Which fundamental principle of U.S. democracy does this excerpt describe?

A) Separation of powers

B) Legislative powers

C) Representative government

D) Right to a fair trial

The Debate Over the U.S. Government’s Role in Economic Policy

The role of the U.S. government in regulating the economy has been a topic of debate since the nation’s founding. During the early 20th century, President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal introduced new government programs aimed at lifting the country out of the Great Depression. These programs expanded the federal government’s role in the economy.

Critics of the New Deal argued that increased government intervention would harm individual freedoms and stifle economic growth. Supporters, on the other hand, believed the government had a duty to stabilize the economy and provide relief to struggling Americans.

In recent years, debates about government intervention have resurfaced, particularly around policies such as raising the federal minimum wage. Some argue that increasing the minimum wage is necessary to ensure a fair income for workers, while others believe it will hurt businesses and reduce employment opportunities.

Excerpts from Senator Harris’s Speech Against Raising the Minimum Wage, May 5, 2020:

1. Excerpt 1: “Forcing businesses to pay a higher minimum wage will lead to layoffs and fewer job opportunities, especially for small businesses.”
2. Excerpt 2: “A better solution would be to reduce regulations on businesses, allowing them to grow and create more jobs.”
3. Excerpt 3: “When the government intervenes too much in the economy, it disrupts the balance of supply and demand, which hurts everyone in the long run.”
4. Excerpt 4: “Let the free market determine wages, not government mandates.”

Excerpts from Representative Jackson’s Speech Supporting a Higher Minimum Wage, June 10, 2020:

1. Excerpt 1: “Raising the minimum wage will lift millions of Americans out of poverty and reduce income inequality.”
2. Excerpt 2: “Businesses that pay fair wages have more loyal employees and lower turnover rates, which benefits both workers and employers.”
3. Excerpt 3: “Government action is needed to ensure that all Americans can afford basic necessities like housing and healthcare.”
4. Excerpt 4: “It’s time we recognize that a living wage is a basic human right.”

How does the message presented by Senator Harris differ from the message presented by Representative Jackson?

A. Only Representative Jackson supports reducing government regulations on businesses.

B. Only Senator Harris promotes reducing government intervention in the economy.

C. Only Representative Jackson wants to ensure that wages are determined by market forces.

D. Only Senator Harris supports raising wages to reduce income inequality.

This excerpt is from a 1941 speech by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

“Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. We will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.”

Based on the excerpt from President Roosevelt’s speech, how did the historical circumstances shape his point of view?

A) The end of World War I led him to focus on economic recovery.
B) The Great Depression influenced his domestic policies.
C) The attack on Pearl Harbor led him to emphasize national defense and military action.
D) The Civil Rights Movement shaped his policies on racial equality.

The U.S. Supreme Court follows a specific process for accepting cases. First, a party submits a petition for a writ of certiorari, asking the Court to review their case. Next, the justices meet in a private conference to discuss the petitions. During this conference, at least four of the nine justices must vote to grant the writ for the case to be accepted. If the writ is granted, the case is scheduled for oral arguments, where attorneys for both sides present their arguments. Finally, after hearing the arguments and reviewing the case materials, the justices deliberate and issue a written opinion that decides the case.

Which event in the passage happens third?

A) A party submits a petition for a writ of certiorari.
B) Justices meet in a private conference to discuss the petitions.
C) The case is scheduled for oral arguments.
D) Justices deliberate and issue a written opinion.

State governments in the United States have distinct responsibilities that differ from those of the federal and local governments. These state-level responsibilities include managing public health systems, overseeing statewide education policies, and controlling transportation infrastructure within the state. Additionally, state governments have the authority to enact laws and regulations that address the unique needs of their populations, reflecting the diversity of each state’s economic and social conditions.

According to the passage, what are some primary responsibilities of state governments in the United States?