Civics Assessments 1.1.1 Identify roles citizens play in civic and private life, with emphasis on leadership. 1. Which action is a civic responsibility of U.S. citizens? A. B. C. D. voting during local elections paying taxes attending school maintaining security Answer: A 1.1.2 Explain and provide examples of the concepts “power,” “legitimacy,” “authority,” and “sovereignty.” 1.1.3 Identify and explain competing arguments about the necessity and purposes of government (such as to protect inalienable rights, promote the general welfare, resolve conflicts, promote equality, and establish justice for all). 1. We hold these truths to be self-evident: That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; . . ." This quotation is evidence that some of the basic ideas in the Declaration of Independence were A. B. C. D. limitations of the principles underlying most European governments of the 1700’s. adaptations of the laws of Spanish colonial governments in North America. adoptions of rules used by the Holy Roman Empire. reflections of the philosophies of the European Enlightenment. Answer: D 1.1.4 Explain the purposes of politics, why people engage in the political process, and what the political process can achieve (e.g., promote the greater good, promote self-interest, advance solutions to public issues and problems, achieve a just society). 1. Which characteristic of the American frontier continues to be an important part of life in the United States today? A. B. C. D. widespread support for the Populist Party necessity for families to have many children a predominantly agricultural and mining economy significant opportunities for social and economic mobility Answer: D Civics Assessments – January 2010 1 1.2.1 Identify, distinguish among, and provide examples of different forms of governmental structures including anarchy, monarchy, military junta, aristocracy, democracy, authoritarian, constitutional republic, fascist, communist, socialist, and theocratic states. 1. Which feature must a nation have to be considered a democracy? A. B. C. D. A strong president Citizen participation in government Elected judges to conduct trials A set of laws Answer: B 1.2.2 Explain the purposes and uses of constitutions in defining and limiting government, distinguishing between historical and contemporary examples of constitutional governments that failed to limit power (e.g., Nazi Germany and Stalinist Soviet Union) and successful constitutional governments (e.g., contemporary Germany and United Kingdom). 1. The Neutrality Acts passed by Congress in the mid-1930s were efforts to A. B. C. D. avoid mistakes that led the country into World War I create jobs for the unemployed in the military defense industry support the League of Nations efforts to stop wars in Africa and Asia help the democratic nations of Europe against Hitler and Mussolini Answer: A 2. One reason the Nuremberg trials following World War II were held was to A. B. C. D. bring Hitler, Mussolini, and Tojo to justice force Japan to pay for the attack on Pearl Harbor make German leaders accountable for the Holocaust punish the German government for bombing England Answer: C 1.2.3 Compare and contrast parliamentary, federal, confederal, and unitary systems of government by analyzing similarities and differences in sovereignty, diffusion of power, and institutional structure. 1. A government needs what two things to work? A. B. C. D. power and people people and authority power and authority Military strength Answer: C Civics Assessments – January 2010 2 2. Which is a valid conclusion based on a study of the presidencies of Thomas Jefferson and Franklin D. Roosevelt? A. B. C. D. Strong third parties develop when the two major parties ignore popular demands. Presidential success depends mainly on a sympathetic Supreme Court. Economic crisis can force a President to suspend basic civil liberties. A President’s political program may change in the face of current needs. Answer: D 1.2.4 Compare and contrast direct and representative democracy. 1. A purpose of direct democracy is to A. B. C. D. minimize the influence of newspapers. involve citizens directly in decision making. elect political leaders. strengthen political parties. Answer: B 2. America is a representative republic form of democracy this means that _____________. A. Each person votes for the President directly B. Congress and the House vote for the President C. Each person votes for the president but in reality they are voting for a member of the Electoral College. D. Each person votes for the senator who in turn elects the president through popular vote. Answer C 2.1.1 Explain the historical and philosophical origins of American constitutional government and evaluate the influence of ideas found in the Magna Carta, English Bill of Rights, Mayflower Compact, Iroquois Confederation, Northwest Ordinance, Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, and selected Federalist Papers (the 10th, 14th, 51st), John Locke’s Second Treatise, Montesquieu’s Spirit of Laws, Paine’s Common Sense. 1. The United States Constitution corrected a weakness in the Articles of Confederation by A. B. C. D. providing for the abolition of slavery. creating a process for territories to become states. granting Congress sole control over interstate and foreign commerce. banning the possession of guns by citizens during peacetime. Answer: C Civics Assessments – January 2010 3 2. The framers of the United States Constitution included the concepts of federalism, checks and balances, and separation of powers in the document because they A. B. C. D. feared a government with unlimited power. favored the poor over the rich. wanted to increase the powers of the states. hoped to expand the democratic process. Answer: A 3. Which American document included John Locke’s idea that people have the right to overthrow an oppressive government? A. B. C. D. Mayflower Compact Northwest Ordinance Declaration of Independence Bill of Rights Answer: C 4. …I challenge the warmest advocate for reconciliation, to shew [show], a single advantage that this continent can reap, by being connected with Great Britain. I repeat the challenge, not a single advantage is derived. Our corn will fetch its price in any market in Europe, and our imported goods must be paid for, buy them where we will... Thomas Paine, 1776 In this statement, Thomas Paine suggested that the American colonies should A. negotiate an end to the conflict with England. B. form an alliance with England. C. declare independence from England. D. boycott goods from England. Answer: C 2.1.2 Explain the significance of the major debates and compromises underlying the formation and ratification of American constitutional government including the Virginia and New Jersey plans, the Great Compromise, debates between Federalists and AntiFederalists, debates over slavery, and the promise for a bill of rights after ratification. 1. Delegates at the Constitutional Convention of 1787 agreed to the Three-fifths Compromise to solve a dispute directly related to A. B. C. D. the power of the presidency. representation in Congress. a decision by the Supreme Court. the addition of a Bill of Rights. Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 4 2. Base your answer on the statements below and on your knowledge of social studies. Speaker A: We want a strong national government to provide order and protect the rights of the people. Speaker B: We want a weak national government so that it will not threaten the rights of the people or the powers of the states. Speaker C: We want to add a bill of rights to the Constitution to protect the people against abuses of power. Speaker D: A bill of rights is unnecessary because the new government’s powers are limited by the Constitution. These statements represent points of view that differ between A. B. C. D. pro-independence Patriots and pro-British Tories. leaders of the North and the West. supporters of Congress and the president. Federalists and Anti-federalists. Answer: D 3. At the Constitutional Convention, there was a major debate between large states and small states about representation in the new Congress. This debate was resolved by the Connecticut Compromise, also known as “Great Compromise,” which said that A. the number of citizens in a state would determine how many seats that state had in Congress, but slaves and other noncitizens would not be counted for this purpose. B. Congress would have two houses in which the number of seats a state had in each house was based on its population. C. Congress would have two houses, one in which state representation was based on population and one in which all states had equal representation. D. Congress would be made up of two houses in which all states had an equal number of representatives in each house. Answer: C 4. The adoption of the Bill of Rights (1791) addressed Anti-federalist criticism of the new Constitution by A. B. C. D. providing for an indirect method of electing the president. protecting citizens from abuses of power by the national government. allowing the national government to coin money. establishing a process for impeaching federal officials. Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 5 2.1.3 Explain how the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights reflected political principles of popular sovereignty, rule of law, checks and balances, separation of powers, social compact, natural rights, individual rights, separation of church and state, republicanism and federalism. 1. “…He [the President] shall have power, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to make treaties, provided two thirds of the senators present concur; and he shall nominate, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, shall appoint ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, judges of the Supreme Court, and all other officers of the United States, whose appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by law: but the Congress may by law vest the appointment of such inferior officers, as they think proper, in the President alone, in the courts of law, or in the heads of departments.” Article II, Section 2, Clause 2, Constitution of the United States This portion of the Constitution illustrates the principle of A. B. C. D. checks and balances. executive privilege. judicial review. implied powers. Answer: B 2. The first three words of the Constitution, “We the People”, reflect which political principle? A. B. C. D. Popular sovereignty Rule of law Checks and balances Federalism Answer: A 3. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that, to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed The above section of the Declaration of Independence reflects which political principles? A. B. C. D. Separation of church and state, federalism Checks and balances, popular sovereignty Natural rights, social compact Individual rights, rule of law Answer: C Civics Assessments – January 2010 6 2.1.4 Explain challenges and modifications to American constitutional government as a result of significant historical events such as the American Revolution, the Civil War, expansion of suffrage, the Great Depression, and the civil rights movement. 1. United States government actions were modified under the New Deal, which tried to solve many problems of the Great Depression by A. B. C. D. providing federal aid to many sectors of the economy. reducing taxes on big business to stimulate job creation. lowering federal spending to maintain a balanced budget. decreasing foreign competition by raising tariffs. Answer: A 2. Changes to Constitutional government following the Civil War included A. B. C. D. ending slavery, defining citizenship, and expanding suffrage to men of color. ending slavery, defining citizenship, and expanding suffrage to women. extending equal protection of the law, and expanding suffrage to eighteen year olds. extending slavery, defining citizenship, and limiting voting rights. Answer: A 3. In 1920, women gained the right to vote as a result of a A. B. C. D. presidential order. Supreme Court decision. national election. constitutional amendment. Answer: D Civics Assessments – January 2010 7 2.2.1 Identify and explain the fundamental values of America’s constitutional republic (e.g., life, liberty, property, the pursuit of happiness, the common good, justice, equality, diversity, authority, participation, and patriotism) and their reflection in the principles of the United States Constitution (e.g., popular sovereignty, republicanism, rule of law, checks and balances, separation of powers, and federalism). 1. Federalism: A way of organizing a nation so that two or more levels of government have authority over the same land and people. Which fact about American government reflects the above definition of federalism? A. Power is divided among legislative, executive, and judicial branches. B. Private organizations in the United States do much of the work that is performed by local governments in other countries. C. Citizens in the United States are subject to both state and federal laws. D. Citizens in the United States have a right to protection from intrusion into their private affairs. Answer: C 2.2.2 Explain and evaluate how Americans, either through individual or collective actions, use constitutional principles and fundamental values to narrow gaps between American ideals and reality with respect to minorities, women, and the disadvantaged. 1. The abolitionist movement, the women’s suffrage movement, and the 1960’s civil rights movement are all examples of reform efforts that A. B. C. D. succeeded without causing major controversy developed significant popular support achieved their goals without government action failed to affect the nation as a whole Answer: B 2. The major goal of the civil rights movement of the 1960’s was to A. B. C. D. establish a separate political state for African Americans gain passage of an equal rights amendment to the Constitution end segregation based on race permit unlimited immigration to the United States Answer: C Civics Assessments – January 2010 8 3. The main goal of the Seneca Falls Convention (1848) was to A. B. C. D. obtain equal rights for women make the public aware of environmental problems correct the abuses of big business organize the first labor union in the United States Answer: A 2.2.3 Use past and present policies to analyze conflicts that arise in society due to competing constitutional principles or fundamental values (e.g., liberty and authority, justice and equality, individual rights, and the common good). 1. On May 17, 1954, in Brown v. Board of Education, the Supreme Court ruled that laws mandating racially segregated public school systems were unconstitutional. The Supreme Court later argued that federal courts should take steps to bring about the integration of segregated school systems “with all deliberate speed.” In 1957, Governor Orval Faubus of Arkansas called on the National Guard to turn away nine African American students as they attempted to enter Central High School in Little Rock. President Eisenhower, who did not support the Brown decision, called out federal troops to protect the rights of the African American students to attend the school. The events described in the passage suggest that early attempts at school integration A. led to a power struggle between state governments and the federal government. B. were opposed by many in the South but were widely popular in other parts of the country. C. proceeded without incident after the Little Rock standoff. D. were supported by elected officials but opposed by the courts. Answer: A Civics Assessments – January 2010 9 2.2.4 Analyze and explain ideas about fundamental values like liberty, justice, and equality found in a range of documents (e.g., Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech and “Letter from Birmingham City Jail,” the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Declaration of Sentiments, the Equal Rights Amendment, and the Patriot Act). 1. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances. First Amendment to the United States Constitution Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and is entitled to realization, through national effort and international cooperation and in accordance with the organization and resources of each State, of the economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for his dignity and the free development of his personality. Article 22 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948 The two documents above show a common concern for A. B. C. D. free speech. economic rights. individual rights. group rights. Answer: C 2.2.5 Use examples to investigate why people may agree on constitutional principles and fundamental values in the abstract, yet disagree over their meaning when they are applied to specific situations. 1. This cartoon from the disputed presidential election of 2000 suggests that the winner might A. B. C. D. lack strong popular support for his programs easily win reelection in 2004 succeed in fulfilling his campaign promises be unable to claim victory in the electoral college Answer: A Civics Assessments – January 2010 10 3.1.1 Analyze the purposes, organization, functions, and processes of the legislative branch as enumerated in Article I of the Constitution. 1. The authors of the United States Constitution believed that the voice of the people should be heard frequently. Which part of the Government was instituted to respond most directly to the will of the people? A. B. C. D. Senate House of Representatives Supreme Court Presidency Answer: B 3.1.2 Analyze the purposes, organization, functions, and processes of the executive branch as enumerated in Article II of the Constitution. 1. On May 17, 1954, in Brown v. Board of Education, the Supreme Court ruled that laws mandating racially segregated public school systems were unconstitutional. The Supreme Court later argued that federal courts should take steps to bring about the integration of segregated school systems “with all deliberate speed.” In 1957, Governor Orval Faubus of Arkansas called on the National Guard to turn away nine African American students as they attempted to enter Central High School in Little Rock. President Eisenhower, who did not support the Brown decision, called out federal troops to protect the rights of the African American students to attend the school. President Eisenhower called out federal troops because he A. B. C. D. had a long career in the military. believed that the governor needed his assistance. was required by the Constitution to enforce the rule of law. wanted to show that the federal government would protect the rights of protesters. Answer: C 3.1.3 Analyze the purposes, organization, functions, and processes of the judicial branch as enumerated in Article III of the Constitution. 1. In the United States, the use of implied powers, the amending process, and Supreme Court interpretations have resulted in A. B. C. D. a general loss of individual rights a strengthening of the principle of separation of powers the Constitution being adapted to fit changing times the limiting of Presidential power in domestic affairs Answer: C Civics Assessments – January 2010 11 2. A lasting impact of the United States Supreme Court under Chief Justice John Marshall is that the Court’s decisions A. B. C. D. extended the Bill of Rights to enslaved persons expanded the power of the Federal Government restricted the authority of Congress promoted the views of the President Answer: B 3. The elastic clause, the amending process, and judicial review are all methods by which A. B. C. D. Congress may check the power of the executive branch the wording of the original Constitution may be altered state governments may limit the power of the Federal Government the Constitution may be adapted to meet changing conditions Answer: D 3.1.4 Identify the role of independent regulatory agencies in the federal bureaucracy (e.g., Federal Reserve Board, Food and Drug Administration, Federal Communications Commission). 1. One responsibility of the Federal Reserve System is to A. B. C. D. balance the federal budget. raise or lower income taxes. control the supply of money. regulate the stock market. Answer: C Civics Assessments – January 2010 12 3.1.5 Use case studies or examples to examine tensions between the three branches of government (e.g., powers of the purse and impeachment, advice and consent, veto power, and judicial review). 1. The following question refers to the passages below, taken from the Supreme Court’s majority opinion and Justice Harlan’s dissent in the case of Lochner v. New York (1905). In this case, the state of New York had passed a law that limited the number of hours that an employee of a bakery could work to no more than sixty hours a week. Lochner was a baker who challenged the constitutionality of the law in the courts. The statute necessarily interferes with the right of contract between the employer and employees.... The general right to make a contract...is part of the liberty of the individual protected by the Fourteenth Amendment.... Under that provision, no State can deprive any person of life, liberty, or property without due process of law. The right to purchase or sell labor is part of the liberty protected by this amendment.... Justice Peckham, delivering the majority opinion of the Court It is plain that this statute was enacted in order to protect the physical well-being of those who work in bakeries.... The statute must be taken as expressing the belief of the people of New York that, as a general rule, labor in excess of sixty hours a week...may endanger the health of those who thus labor.... Our duty, I submit, is to sustain the statute as not being in conflict with the Federal Constitution. Justice Harlan, in his dissenting opinion Which answer summarizes the case correctly? A. Peckham argues for judicial activism to limit government power; Harlan argues for judicial restraint, but for a more active role by government. B. Peckham argues that legislatures have a role to play in civil society; Harlan argues that such a role should be reserved only for the courts. C. Peckham emphasizes the power of the states; Harlan emphasizes the power of the federal government. D. Peckham emphasizes the power of the legislatures; Harlan emphasizes the power of the courts. Answer: A 3.1.6 Evaluate major sources of revenue for the national government, including the constitutional provisions for taxing its citizens 1. What is the primary source of money to operate the national government? A. B. C. D. Fees collected from importers Taxes on personal income Fees collected from exporters Sales taxes paid by consumers Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 13 3.1.7 Explain why the federal government is one of enumerated powers while state governments are those of reserved powers. 1. Which constitutional provision was intended to give the people the most influence over the Federal Government? A. B. C. D. President’s duty to give Congress information about the state of the Union electoral college system for choosing the President direct election of members of the House of Representatives for two-year terms process for proposing and ratifying amendments to the Constitution Answer: C 2. When the United States Constitution was written, which compromise was reached by the authors to gain the support of the states with small populations? A. Congress would consist of both a House of Representatives and a Senate. B. Five enslaved persons would be counted as three free persons for the purpose of taxation C. The President would be selected by the direct vote of the people. D. Exported goods could not be taxed, but imported goods could be taxed. Answer: A 3.2.1 Explain how the principles of enumerated powers, federalism, separation of powers, bicameralism, checks and balances, republicanism, rule of law, individual rights, inalienable rights, separation of church and state, and popular sovereignty serve to limit the power of government. 1. We have a constitutional system that so fragments and divides power that it’s impossible to give this country effective, long-run leadership… The system has led to an inability to plan and get on top of problems ahead of time. Even at best this country has always been twenty to sixty years behind other industrial democracies in dealing with tough problems. James MacGregor Burns, 1988 Which aspect of United States government might Burns cite to support his argument? A. B. C. D. The use of the electoral college in presidential elections. The President’s power as commander in chief. The division of policy-making power among national, state, and local governments. The role of political parties in congressional decision making. Answer: C Civics Assessments – January 2010 14 2. Does segregation of children in public schools solely on the basis of race, even though the physical facilities…may be equal, deprive children of the minority group of equal educational opportunities? We believe that it does. To separate them from others of similar age and qualifications solely on the basis of their race generates a feeling of inferiority as to their status and community that may affect their hearts and minds in a way unlikely to ever be undone… Whatever may have been the extent of psychological knowledge at the time of Plessy v. Ferguson, this finding is amply supported by modern authority. Any language in Plessy v. Ferguson contrary to this finding is rejected. We conclude that in the field of public education, the doctrine of separate but equal has no place. Separate educational facilities are inherently unequal. How did the decision from the Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka (1954) affect the relationship between the federal government and state and local governments? A. The federal government exerted greater influence in a policy area that had been dominated by states and municipalities. B. The federal government began directly determining what would be taught in public classrooms. C. State governments were restricted in their ability to mandate the teaching of religion in public schools. D. State and local governments became less dependent on federal funding for education. Answer: A 3.2.2 Use court cases to explain how the Constitution is maintained as the supreme law of the land (e.g., Marbury v. Madison, Gibbons v. Ogden, McCulloch v. Maryland). 1. Marbury v. Madison established which of the following tools allowing the American system of government to limit the power of majorities? A. B. C. D. The ability of Congress to override Presidential vetoes. The Supreme Court’s power to overturn unconstitutional laws. The right of Congress to impeach Presidents and federal judges. The ability of people in many states to vote public initiatives into law. Answer: B 3.2.3 Identify specific provisions in the Constitution that limit the power of the federal government 1. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, prohibiting the federal government from making any law “respecting an establishment of religion,” was one response to the A. B. C. D. attempts by Maryland to make Catholicism the official state religion. increasing number of Puritans arriving in the country. religious persecution exhibited by the Church of England. antireligious sentiments expressed during the Great Awakening. Answer C Civics Assessments – January 2010 15 3.2.4 Explain the role of the Bill of Rights and each of its amendments in restraining the power of government over individuals. 1. The primary purpose of adding the Bill of Rights to the Constitution was to A. B. C. D. limit the spread of slavery in the United States. limit the power of the federal government. establish judicial review. allot specific powers to the states. Answer: B 3.2.5 Analyze the role of subsequent amendments to the Constitution in extending or limiting the power of government, including the Civil War/Reconstruction Amendments and those expanding suffrage. 1. “Although important strides were made, Reconstruction failed to provide lasting guarantees of the civil rights of the freedmen.” Which evidence best supports this statement? A. B. C. D. passage of Jim Crow laws in the latter part of the 19th century ratification of the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments refusal of Southern States to allow sharecropping passage of the Civil Rights Acts of 1866 Answer: A 2. The Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Fair Housing Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act were government efforts to A. B. C. D. eliminate restrictions on immigration end discrimination against various groups provide federal aid for children require equal treatment of men and woman Answer: B 3. When President Dwight D. Eisenhower sent Federal troops to Little Rock, Arkansas, during the 1957 school integration crisis, he was exercising his constitutional power as A. B. C. D. Chief Legislator Commander-in-Chief Chief Diplomat Head of State Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 16 3.3.1 Describe limits the U.S. Constitution places on powers of the states (e.g., prohibitions against coining money, impairing interstate commerce, making treaties with foreign governments) and on the federal government’s power over the states (e.g., federal government cannot abolish a state, Tenth Amendment reserves powers to the states). 1. One similarity in the presidential administrations of Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Lyndon Johnson is that each A. B. C. D. maintained a foreign policy of neutrality expanded the power of the presidency removed Supreme Court Justices from office decreased the size of the military Answer: B 2. Which of the following best describes the way in which the United States Constitution assigns governmental power? A. B. C. D. It assigns it entirely to the states It assigns it entirely to the national government It divides it between the states and the national government It divides it between the states and the federal courts Answer: C 3.3.2 Identify and define states’ reserved and concurrent powers. 1. The United States government taxes gasoline. New York State law requires a sales tax on many goods. The statements above best illustrate the principle of ________________. A. B. C. D. concurrent powers property rights reserved powers popular sovereignty Answer: C Civics Assessments – January 2010 17 3.3.3 Explain the tension among federal, state, and local governmental power using the necessary and proper clause, the commerce clause, and the Tenth Amendment. 1. “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.” The quote above is taken from the__________. A. B. C. D. Declaration of independence The 10th Amendment Article 2 from the articles of confederation George Washington’s farewell address Answer: B 2. When John Marshall was Chief Justice, United States Supreme Court decisions tended to strengthen the power of A. B. C. D. the National Government state and local governments labor unions trusts and monopolies Answer: A 3.3.4 Describe how state and local governments are organized, their major responsibilities, and how they affect the lives of citizens 3.3.5 Describe the mechanisms by which citizens monitor and influence state and local governments (e.g., referendum, initiative, recall). 1. WASHINGTON, Dec 4-Supporters of limits on Congressional terms gathered in the nation’s capital today Limiting the number of years that members of Congress could serve to 12 years -- six terms for House members and two terms for senators -- would force more competition into the system…supporters of term limits said this year’s elections, with a 96 percent reelection rate in the House, showed how hard it was for even an angry electorate to defeat incumbents. -- The New York Times, December 1990 The major reason for increased support for the change discussed in the article is the public’s belief that A. B. C. D. most current members of Congress have taken bribes the President’s political party should have a majority in Congress political disputes in Congress would be reduced the democratic process would be strengthened Answer: D Civics Assessments – January 2010 18 3.3.6 Evaluate the major sources of revenue for state and local governments. 3.3.7 Explain the role of state constitutions in state governments 3.4.1 Explain why the rule of law has a central place in American society (e.g., Supreme Court cases like Marbury v. Madison and U.S. v. Nixon; practices such as submitting bills to legal counsel to ensure congressional compliance with the law). 1. All citizens of the United States are ____________________. A. B. C. D. Innocent until proven guilty Allowed to have a fair trial by a jury of their peers Granted the right to a quick trial All of the above Answer D 3.4.2 Describe what can happen in the absence or breakdown of the rule of law (e.g., Ku Klux Klan attacks, police corruption, organized crime, interfering with the right to vote, and perjury). 1. After the passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments, African Americans continued to experience political and economic oppression mainly because A. B. C. D. the amendments were not intended to solve their problems many African Americans distrusted the Federal Government Southern legislatures enacted Jim Crow laws poor communications kept people from learning about their legal rights Answer: C 2. “. . . I was disappointed not to see what is inside Central High School. I don’t understand why the governor [of Arkansas] sent grown-up soldiers to keep us out. I don’t know if I should go back. But Grandma is right, if I don’t go back, they will think they have won. They will think they can use soldiers to frighten us, and we’ll always have to obey them. They’ll always be in charge if I don’t go back to Central and make the integration happen. . . .” — Melba Beals, Warriors Don’t Cry, an African American student, 1957 President Dwight D. Eisenhower reacted to the situation described in this passage by A. B. C. D. forcing the governor of Arkansas to resign allowing the people of Arkansas to resolve the problem asking the Supreme Court to speed up racial integration sending federal troops to enforce integration Answer: D Civics Assessments – January 2010 19 3. The poll tax, the literacy test, and the actions of the Ku Klux Klan were all attempts to limit the effectiveness of A. B. C. D. the 14th and 15th amendments the Supreme Court’s decision in Brown v. Board of Education civil rights legislation passed in all states after the Civil War immigration laws such as the Gentleman’s Agreement and the Chinese Exclusion Act Answer: A 4. “I would agree with Saint Augustine that ‘An unjust law is no law at all.’ ” — Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Letter From Birmingham City Jail” This statement was used by Dr. King to show support for A. B. C. D. Social Darwinism Jim Crow laws separation of church and state civil disobedience Answer: D 3.4.3 Explain the meaning and importance of equal protection of the law (e.g., the 14th Amendment, Americans with Disabilities Act, equal opportunity legislation). 1. The Equal Pay Act, the Title IX education amendment, and the proposed Equal Rights amendment (ERA) were primarily efforts to improve the status of A. B. C. D. African Americans Native American Indians migrant workers women Answer: D 3.4.4 Describe considerations and criteria that have been used to deny, limit, or extend protection of individual rights (e.g., clear and present danger, time, place and manner restrictions on speech, compelling government interest, security, libel or slander, public safety, and equal opportunity). 1. What was the effect of the “clear and present danger” ruling established in Schenck v. United States (1919)? A. B. C. D. Placing limits on constitutional freedoms Decreasing the President’s powers during wartime Limiting the hours women could work in industry Upholding the right of states to regulate child labor Answer: A Civics Assessments – January 2010 20 3.4.5 Analyze the various levels and responsibilities of courts in the federal and state judicial system and explain the relationships among them. 1. One similarity between the United States Constitution and the New York State Constitution is that both A. B. C. D. provide methods for dealing with foreign powers authorize the coinage of money establish rules for public education separate the branches of government Answer: D 2. When the United States Constitution was written, which compromise was reached by the authors to gain the support of the states with small populations? A. Congress would consist of both a House of Representatives and a Senate. B. Five enslaved persons would be counted as three free persons for the purpose of taxation C. The President would be selected by the direct vote of the people. D. Exported goods could not be taxed, but imported goods could be taxed. Answer: A 3.5.1 Explain how political parties, interest groups, the media, and individuals can influence and determine the public agenda. 1. Interest groups like the National Rifle Association (NRA) and the National Education Association (NEA) can influence government decisions because they A. B. C. D. directly choose the leaders of Congress. work to elect legislators who support their views. pay the salaries of elected officials. become members of third political parties. Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 21 3.5.2 Describe the origin and the evolution of political parties and their influence. 1. MICHIGAN WELFARE PLAN DRAWS UNLIKELY SUPPORT Michigan governor John Engler is pursuing changes in welfare policy that are pleasing the Clinton administration more than his Republican allies on Capitol Hill. The Democrats’ unlikely and somewhat unwilling hero announced an ambitious pilot project…that seeks to cut welfare costs by providing generous social services so that poor people can go to work. Democrats call his plan enlightened. Republicans have been caught off guard. Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Democrat of New York…praised Mr. Engler for breaking with congressional Republicans by using child care and transportation subsidies and fashioning a more active role for social workers in an effort to turn welfare recipients into workers. The New York Times, January 22, 1996 What does the article show about American politics? A. There is wide support for continuing welfare services in their current form. B. The number of people receiving welfare services has increased markedly over recent years. C. Political parties are not ideologically unified, and people within parties may differ over issues like welfare reform. D. Democrats are thought to be more liberal than Republicans, but they are in fact more likely to champion the elimination of welfare services. Answer: C 3.5.3 Identify and explain the roles of various associations and groups in American politics (e.g., political organizations, political action committees, interest groups, voluntary and civic associations, professional organizations, unions, and religious groups). 1. Imagine that Congress is considering severe cutbacks in the Social Security program. Which of the following national interest groups would be most concerned about and opposed to such a policy? A. B. C. D. Mothers Against Drunk Drivers American Association of Retired Persons National Association for the Advancement of Colored People American Bar Association Answer: B 3.5.4 Explain the concept of public opinion, factors that shape it, and contrasting views on the role it should play in public policy. Civics Assessments – January 2010 22 3.5.5 Evaluate the actual influence of public opinion on public policy. 1. According to the supply-side economics principles promoted by President Ronald Reagan, economic growth would occur when A. B. C. D. corporate business taxes were reduced business was regulated by antitrust legislation unemployment benefits were increased investment in capital goods was decreased Answer: A 3.5.6 Explain the significance of campaigns and elections in American politics, current criticisms of campaigns, and proposals for their reform. 3.5.7 Explain the role of television, radio, the press, and the internet in political communication. 1. Which of the following is most likely to happen if a large publisher buys many of the [smaller] newspapers in a country? A. B. C. D. Government censorship of the news is more likely. There will be less diversity of opinions presented. The price of the country’s newspapers will be lowered. The amount of advertising in the newspapers will be reduced. Answer: B 2. The widespread use of computers has led to a national concern over A. B. C. D. increased pollution of the environment guarding the right to privacy protection of the right to petition a decline in television viewing Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 23 3.5.8 Evaluate, take, and defend positions about the formation and implementation of a current public policy issue, and examine ways to participate in the decision making process about the issue. 1. What is the main idea of this cartoon? A. Americans fail to adequately support the expenses of political candidates. B. Campaign advertising has no influence on voter turnout. C. Campaign costs are a major cause of the national debt. D. High campaign costs negatively affect the political process. Answer: D 3.5.9 In making a decision on a public issue, analyze various forms of political communication (e.g., political cartoons, campaign advertisements, political speeches, and blogs) using criteria like logical validity, factual accuracy and/or omission, emotional appeal, distorted evidence, and appeals to bias or prejudice. 1. What Native American Indian viewpoint does the cartoonist support? A. Illegal immigrants should not be allowed to settle on Native American Indian reservations. B. European settlers took Native American Indian land. C. Government efforts to restrict immigration should be supported. D. Native American Indians support government efforts to stop illegal immigration. Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 24 4.1.1 Identify and evaluate major foreign policy positions that have characterized the United States’ relations with the world (e.g., isolated nation, imperial power, world leader) in light of foundational values and principles, provide examples of how they were implemented and their consequences (e.g., Spanish- American War, Cold War containment) 1. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances. First Amendment to the United States Constitution Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and is entitled to realization, through national effort and international cooperation and in accordance with the organization and resources of each State, of the economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for his dignity and the free development of his personality. Article 22 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948 Why have documents such as the United Nations Universal Declaration been opposed by some citizens in the United States? A. Some people fear that international agreements will force the United States to act in ways not consistent with its national interest. B. Americans see economic equality as more important than individual liberty. C. Some people believe that the government should be free to limit speech and assembly rights where necessary. D. Most people do not believe that there are universal human rights. Answer: A 2. “…Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty…” President John F. Kennedy, Inaugural Address, 1961 This statement by President Kennedy suggests a continued commitment to the foreign policy of A. B. C. D. isolationism. containment. appeasement. imperialism. Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 25 3. What is one important way in which central political principles of the United States government have had a major effect on United States foreign policy? A. The United States has usually supported movements in foreign countries to give all citizens basic economic rights. B. The United States has played a leading role in the international environmental movement. C. The United States has supported the growth of Western-style democracy in countries that were once communist dictatorships. D. The United States has consistently encouraged its allies to develop federal systems of government. Answer: C 4.1.2 Describe the process by which United States foreign policy is made, including the powers the Constitution gives to the president; Congress and the judiciary; and the roles federal agencies, domestic interest groups, the public, and the media play in foreign policy. 1. Which statement about the making of United States foreign policy is accurate? A. State governments, through their ability to negotiate independent trade agreements, have preeminent authority in making foreign policy. B. The Senate, because of its power of treaty ratification, has more power in setting foreign policy than does the President. C. The Supreme Court, because it can rule on the constitutionality of executive actions, dominates foreign policy. D. Congress and the courts have some authority over foreign policy, but the President and the state department have the greatest authority. Answer: D 4.1.3 Evaluate the means used to implement U.S. foreign policy with respect to current or past international issues (e.g., diplomacy, economic, military and humanitarian aid, treaties, sanctions, military intervention, and covert action). 1. “Clinton Offers Economic Aid to Russia” “U.S. Sends Peacekeeping Troops to Bosnia” “U.S. Airlifts Food and Medicine to Somalia” The headlines above illustrate that United States foreign policy during the 1990s stressed A. B. C. D. containment. collective security. global involvement. neutrality. Answer: C Civics Assessments – January 2010 26 4.1.4 Using at least two historical examples, explain reasons for, and consequences of, conflicts that arise when international disputes cannot be resolved peacefully. 1. Which argument did President Abraham Lincoln use against the secession of the Southern States? A. B. C. D. Slavery was not profitable The government was a union of people and not of states. The Southern States did not permit their people to vote on secession. As the Commander in Chief, he had the duty to defend the United States against foreign invasion. Answer: B 2. Sectional differences developed in the United States largely because A. B. C. D. the Federal Government adopted a policy of neutrality economic conditions and interests in each region varied only northerners were represented at the Constitutional Convention early Presidents favored urban areas over rural areas Answer: B 4.2.1 Describe how different political systems interact in world affairs with respect to international issues. (Action required from student not testable through paper exam without essay) 4.2.2 Analyze the impact of American political, economic, technological, and cultural developments on other parts of the world (e.g., immigration policies, economic, military and humanitarian aid, computer technology research, popular fashion, and film). 1. For the United States, the breakup of the Soviet Union has had the greatest effect on A. B. C. D. import quotas immigration policies advances in technology defense spending Answer: D Civics Assessments – January 2010 27 2. This 1991 cartoon is criticizing President George Bush for A. B. C. D. refusing to support the United Nations involving the United States in foreign wars using foreign affairs to hide domestic failures ignoring the economic needs of developing nations Answer: C 4.2.3 Analyze the impact of political, economic, technological, and cultural developments around the world on the United States (e.g., terrorism, emergence of regional organizations like the European Union, multinational corporations, and interdependent world economy). 1. One important conclusion that can be drawn as a result of the United States experience in both the Spanish-American War (1898) and the Persian Gulf War (1991) is that A. B. C. D. only the President should decide issues of war and peace the media are a powerful influence in shaping American public opinion toward war the public has little confidence in the ability of the American military international organizations play a decisive role in determining the outcome of a war Answer: B 4.2.4 Identify the purposes and functions of governmental and non-governmental international organizations, and the role of the United States in each (e.g., the United Nations, NATO, World Court, Organization of American States, International Red Cross, Amnesty International). 1. Speaker A:"States must be represented in the national government solely on the basis of population. It is indeed the only fair situation." Speaker B:"The national legislature must be based on equal representation of the states to protect the interests of the small states." Speaker C:"States must accept the supremacy of the national government on all issues; otherwise, the system will fail." Speaker D:"The national Congress should consist of two houses: one in which representation is based on population, and one in which states are equally represented." Which document was being written when this discussion most likely occurred? A. B. C. D. Declaration of Independence United States Constitution Covenant of the League of Nations Charter of the United Nations Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 28 4.2.5 Evaluate the role of the United States in important bilateral and multilateral agreements (e.g., NAFTA, Helsinki Accords, Antarctic Treaty, Most Favored Nation Agreements, and the Kyoto Protocol). 1. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs (GATT) have encouraged countries to A. B. C. D. participate in the global economy. create uniform international currency. accept similar wage and price controls. regulate multinational corporations. Answer: A 2. Raising import duties on foreign manufactured goods is an example of A. B. C. D. technological competition supporting free trade lowering inflation economic protectionism Answer: D 4.2.6 Evaluate the impact of American political ideas and values on other parts of the world (e.g., American Revolution, fundamental values and principles expressed in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution). 1. The Truman Doctrine and the Marshall Plan represented attempts by the United States to deal with the A. B. C. D. national debt spread of communism President’s political opposition arms race Answer: B 2. “An attack on one shall be considered an attack on all.” This statement summarizes the foreign policy known a A. B. C. D. colonialism nonalignment appeasement collective security Answer: D Civics Assessments – January 2010 29 5.1.1 Using examples, explain the idea and meaning of citizenship in the United States of America, and the rights and responsibilities of American citizens (e.g., people participate in public life, know about the laws that govern society, respect and obey those laws, participate in political life, stay informed and attentive about public issues, and voting). (Action required from student not testable through paper exam without essay) 5.1.2 Compare the rights of citizenship Americans have as a member of a state and the nation. 5.2.1 Explain the distinction between citizens by birth, naturalized citizens, and noncitizens. 5.2.2 Describe the distinction between legal and illegal immigration and the process by which legal immigrants can become citizens. (Action required from student not testable through paper exam without essay) 5.2.3 Evaluate the criteria used for admission to citizenship in the United States and how Americans expanded citizenship over the centuries (e.g., removing limitations of suffrage). 5.3.1 Identify and explain personal rights (e.g., freedom of thought, conscience, expression, association, movement and residence, the right to privacy, personal autonomy, due process of law, free exercise of religion, and equal protection of the law). 1. A police officer arrests a suspected criminal and neglects to inform the suspect of his/her rights. Which personal right did the officer violate? A. B. C. D. Freedom of thought The right to privacy Equal protection of the law Due process of law Answer: D Civics Assessments – January 2010 30 5.3.2 Identify and explain political rights (e.g., freedom of speech, press, assembly, and petition; and the right to vote and run for public office). 1. Which of the following is a political right? A. B. C. D. The right of student to learn about politics in school. The right of citizens to vote and run for election. The right of adults to have a job. The right of politicians to have a salary. Answer: B 5.3.3 Identify and explain economic rights (e.g., the right to acquire, use, transfer, and dispose of property, choose one’s work and change employment, join labor unions and professional associations, establish and operate a business, copyright protection, enter into lawful contracts, and just compensation for the taking of private property for public use). 5.3.4 Describe the relationship between personal, political, and economic rights and how they can sometimes conflict. 5.3.5 Explain considerations and criteria commonly used in determining what limits should be placed on specific rights 1. Which issue is the central focus of this cartoon drawn after September 11, 2001? A. Is there a need to give up some civil liberties to protect the nation? B. Should the United States reduce oil imports from the Middle East? C. Does the United States need fewer limits on immigration? D. Should the United States abandon the Constitution? Answer: A 5.3.6 Describe the rights protected by the First Amendment, and using case studies and examples, explore the limit and scope of First Amendment rights. 1. Which individual’s action was directly protected by the first amendment? A. B. C. D. Alexander Graham Bell’s invention of the telephone in 1876. Theodore Roosevelt’s command of the Rough Riders in 1898. President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s election to a third term in 1940. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s leading a march on Washington, D.C., in 1963. Answer: D Civics Assessments – January 2010 31 5.3.7 Using the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Amendments, describe the rights of the accused; and using case studies and examples, explore the limit and scope of these rights. 1. The due process clause in the 5th Amendment and the right to an attorney in the 6th Amendment were designed to A. B. C. D. protect freedom of expression. assure that laws are properly enacted. ensure fair treatment for those accused of crimes. provide for judicial review of law. Answer: C 5.3.8 Explain and give examples of the role of the Fourteenth Amendment in extending the protection of individual rights against state action. 5.3.9 Use examples to explain why rights are not unlimited and absolute. 5.4.1 Distinguish between personal and civic responsibilities and describe how they can sometimes conflict with each other. 1. Which of the following is the best reason why people should serve on juries when they are called? A. People who are on juries earn a lot of money for the services they give the court. B. People can protect their right to a trial by jury only if citizens are willing to be on juries. C. People on juries have a lot of opportunities to express their political opinions. D. Our system of justice only works if people with a lot of legal experience are on juries. Answer: B Civics Assessments – January 2010 32 5.4.2 Describe the importance of citizens’ civic responsibilities including obeying the law, being informed and attentive to public issues, monitoring political leaders and governmental agencies, assuming leadership when appropriate, paying taxes, registering to vote and voting knowledgeably on candidates and issues, serving as a juror, serving in the armed forces, performing public service. 1. If there were no laws and no form of public enforcement of the peace you would be living under what type of political system? A. B. C. D. Democracy Socialism Anarchy Communism Answer C 5.4.3 Explain why meeting personal and civic responsibilities are important to the preservation and improvement of American constitutional democracy. 1. Which of the following does not describe how American constitutional democracy can benefit from citizens actively participating in the political process? A. If people participate, they have a greater stake in society, care more about what happens in their communities, and take more personal responsibility in society. B. If people actively participate in the political process, then government institutions and government leaders more accurately reflect the will of the people. C. The society is less apt to be tyrannically controlled by the will of individuals or small groups if all citizens actively participate in the political process. The more people participate, the stronger the democracy will be. D. When people participate, they will be able to influence foreign policy and federal law through the use of direct democracy. Answer: D 5.5.1 Describe dispositions people think lead citizens to become independent members of society (e.g., self-discipline, self-governance, and a sense of individual responsibility) and thought to foster respect for individual worth and human dignity (e.g., respect for individual rights and choice, and concern for the well-being of others). (Action required from student not testable through paper exam without Essay) Civics Assessments – January 2010 33 5.5.2 Describe the dispositions thought to encourage citizen involvement in public affairs (e.g., “civic virtue” or attentiveness to and concern for public affairs; patriotism or loyalty to values and principles underlying American constitutional democracy) and to facilitate thoughtful and effective participation in public affairs (e.g., civility, respect for the rights of other individuals, respect for law, honesty, open-mindedness, negotiation and compromise; persistence, civic mindedness, compassion, patriotism, courage, and tolerance for ambiguity). (Action required from student not testable through paper exam without essay) 5.5.3 Explain why the development of citizens as independent members of society who are respectful of individual worth and human dignity, inclined to participate in public affairs, and are thoughtful and effective in their participation, is important to the preservation and improvement of American constitutional democracy. 1. “I often wondered whether we do not rest our hopes too much upon constitutions, upon laws and upon courts. These are false hopes; believe me, these are false hopes. Liberty lives in the hearts of men and women; when it dies there, no constitution, no law, no court can save it.” Judge Learned Hand, 1941 Which of the following best summarizes Judge Hand’s argument about constitutional democracy in the United States? A. B. C. D. Constitutions are a serious obstacle to individual liberties. Constitutions allow governments to disregard individual liberties. Individual liberties depend on citizens committed to protecting those liberties. Individual liberties can only be safeguarded by a written constitution. Answer: C 6.1.1 Identify and research various viewpoints on significant public policy issues. Civics Assessments – January 2010 34 6.1.2 Locate, analyze, and use various forms of evidence, information, and sources about a significant public policy issue, including primary and secondary sources, legal documents (e.g., Constitutions, court decisions, state law), non-text based information (e.g., maps, charts, tables, graphs, and cartoons), and other forms of political communication (e.g., oral political cartoons, campaign advertisements, political speeches, and blogs). 1. This cartoon from the disputed presidential election of 2000 suggests that the winner might ____________________. A. B. C. D. lack strong popular support for his programs easily win reelection in 2004 succeed in fulfilling his campaign promises be unable to claim victory in the electoral college Answer: A 6.1.3 Develop and use criteria (e.g., logical validity, factual accuracy and/or omission, emotional appeal, credibility, unstated assumptions, logical fallacies, inconsistencies, distortions, and appeals to bias or prejudice, overall strength of argument) in analyzing evidence and position statements. (Action required from student not testable through paper exam) 6.1.4 Address a public issue by suggesting alternative solutions or courses of action, evaluating the consequences of each, and proposing an action to address the issue or resolve the problem. 1. The Civil war might have been avoided if A. The original constitution had a provision for the abolishment of slavery B. The Northern states had not levied a tariff on southern grown cotton sold to European countries C. Either of the above A or B D. Lincoln had not won the election of 1860 Answer: C 6.1.5 Make a persuasive, reasoned argument on a public issue and support using evidence (e.g., historical and contemporary examples), constitutional principles, and fundamental values of American constitutional democracy; explain the stance or position. Civics Assessments – January 2010 35 6.2.1 Describe the relationship between politics and the attainment of individual and public goals (e.g., how individual interests are fulfilled by working to achieve collective goals). 6.2.2 Distinguish between and evaluate the importance of political participation and social participation. 6.2.3 Describe how, when, and where individuals can participate in the political process at the local, state, and national levels (including, but not limited to voting, attending political and governmental meetings, contacting public officials, working in campaigns, community organizing, demonstrating or picketing, boycotting, joining interest groups or political action committees); evaluate the effectiveness of these methods of participants. 6.2.4 Participate in a real or simulated election, and evaluate the results, including the impact of voter turnout and demographics. (Action required from student not testable through paper exam) 6.2.5 Describe how citizen movements seek to realize fundamental values and principles of American constitutional democracy. 6.2.6 Analyze different ways people have used civil disobedience, the different forms civil disobedience might take (e.g., violent and non-violent) and their impact. 6.2.7 Participate in a service-learning project, reflect upon experiences, and evaluate the value of the experience to the American ideal of participation. (Action required from student not testable through paper exam) 6.2.8 Describe various forms and functions of political leadership and evaluate the characteristics of an effective leader. 6.2.9 Evaluate the claim that constitutional democracy requires the participation of an attentive, knowledgeable, and competent citizenry. 6.2.10 Participate in a real or simulated public hearing or debate and evaluate the role of deliberative public discussions in civic life. (Action required from student not testable through paper exam) Civics Assessments – January 2010 36 6.2.11 Identify typical issues, needs, or concerns of citizens (e.g., seeking variance, zoning changes, information about property taxes), and actively demonstrate ways citizens might use local governments to resolve issues or concerns *Match up the dispute with the court it is likely to be tried (State or Federal) A. Property dispute between neighbors State or Federal _________________ B. Manslaughter State or Federal _________________ C. Child custody State or Federal _________________ D. Car theft in a federal park State or Federal _________________ E. Shoplifting a $20.00 item State or Federal _________________ F. Underage drinking State or Federal _________________ G. Border dispute between states State or Federal _________________ H. Tax evasion State or Federal _________________ Answers: A: State, B: State, C: State, D: Federal, E: State, F: State, G: Federal, H: Federal Civics Assessments – January 2010 37