Understanding the European Union

Cecilia is studying the European Union in her political science class. What is the EU?

• The EU is a political and economic union of 27 European countries.

• The EU is a trade agreement between European and Asian countries.

• The EU is a cultural organisation for European artists.

• The EU is a military alliance of European countries.

Answer explanation

The correct answer is that the EU is a political and economic union of 27 European countries, which reflects its primary purpose of fostering cooperation and integration among its member states.

Francesca and Matteo are studying the EFTA, which is a group of countries that have very special economic and trade agreements with the EU. They want to know which countries are part of this group.

• Austria, Belgium, Netherlands, Portugal

• Germany, France, Italy, Spain

• Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland

• Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia

Answer explanation

The EFTA (European Free Trade Association) includes Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. The other options list EU member countries or non-EFTA nations, making them incorrect.

Before the EU, from 1957 until the Maastricht Treaty of 1993, there was the...

• European Economic Community (EEC)

• European Union (EU)

• Common Market (CM)

• European Free Trade Association (EFTA)

Answer explanation

The correct answer is the European Economic Community (EEC), which existed from 1957 until the Maastricht Treaty in 1993, marking the transition to the European Union (EU). The EEC focused on economic integration among member states.

Which of the following IS a benefit of being in the EU for member states, as discussed by Francesca and Matteo during their debate?

• Limited freedom of movement

• Higher agricultural subsidies

• Increased tariffs on trade

• Access to the single market

Answer explanation

Access to the single market is a key benefit for EU member states, allowing them to trade freely without tariffs, which enhances economic growth and cooperation among countries.

Which of the following is NOT a benefit of being in the EU for member states, as discussed by Matteo and Leonardo in their class?

• Loss of sovereignty

• Enhanced political stability

• Access to a larger labor market

• Increased trade opportunities

Answer explanation

Loss of sovereignty is NOT a benefit of EU membership; it refers to the transfer of decision-making power to the EU, which can be seen as a disadvantage. The other options highlight positive aspects of EU membership.

The main functions of the European Parliament are:

• To conduct scientific research

• To oversee the military operations of EU member states

• To manage the EU's foreign policy

• The main functions of the European Parliament are to represent EU citizens and debate, approve or reject new laws

Answer explanation

The European Parliament's main functions include legislating, overseeing the budget, and representing EU citizens, making the correct choice the one that accurately describes these roles.

Nicola and Antonio are discussing how many countries are currently in the Eurozone (they officially use the Euro as their currency). How many countries do you think they are referring to?

• 18

• 20

• 22

• 25

Answer explanation

As of now, there are 20 countries in the Eurozone that officially use the Euro as their currency. This makes the correct answer 20, as the other options are outdated or incorrect.

Benedetta, Luigi, and their friends Tommaso and Matilde are curious about how many EU countries do not currently use the euro as their currency. Can you help them find the answer?

• 10

• 7

• 12

• 5

Answer explanation

As of now, there are 7 EU countries that do not use the euro as their currency. These countries include Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Romania, and Bulgaria, making 7 the correct answer.

Lorenzo and Matilde are planning a trip across Europe. They want to know what the purpose of the Schengen Area is.

• To enable passport-free travel and enhance cooperation among member countries.

• To establish a common currency for all member states.

• To promote economic competition among member countries.

• To restrict immigration and control borders more strictly.

Answer explanation

The Schengen Area allows passport-free travel between member countries, promoting easier movement and cooperation, which is the primary purpose. Other options do not accurately reflect its goals.

During a geography class, Cecilia asked, "Which non-EU countries are in the Schengen area?"

• Turkey

• Ireland

• United Kingdom

• Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein

Answer explanation

Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein are non-EU countries that are part of the Schengen Area, allowing for passport-free travel. Turkey, Ireland, and the United Kingdom are not in the Schengen Area.