Civics SOL Released Test Items 2014

Which action will the government take when it needs more money?

• hold elections

• lower prices

• increase taxes

• hire workers

Which document best expresses the ideas of the consent of the governed?

• A

• B

• C

• D

Why have only 27 amendments been added to the US Constitution in over 200 years?

• The process of adding amendments is very complex

• The courts strike down many amendments

• National laws limit the amount of amendments

• Changes in society are too small to require amendments

This phrase best refers to-

• Failed policies made by foreign officials

• Grievances in the Declaration of Independence

• National problems caused by outdated laws

• Weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation

A citizen can help ensure the rights of an accused person by-

• serving the military

• paying income tax

• serving on a jury

• obeying the state law

Why is community service important in a democratic nation?

• It helps businesses find and train new employees

• It addresses local needs and serves the public good

• It lowers unemployment by giving jobs to volunteers

• It removes the national government's duty to improve society

Which phrase completes this diagram?

• state population

• the number of political districts

• voter registration

• the number of state senators

This action is one way the president can influence-

• judicial review

• foreign affairs

• international trade

• national policies

Which branch of government has the power to declare Virginia laws unconstitutional?

• State judicial branch

• Federal executive branch

• State executive branch

• Federal legislative branch

Which executive power is being demonstrated in this drawing?

• Power to influence legislation

• Ability to veto legislation

• Power to approve cabinet members

• Ability to change judicial decisions