This page shows a list of test questions in the American Government public release collection at MSDE. American Government
Unit "The Legislative Branch," Topic "Elections"

What is a reason people join third parties?

Suppose the Maryland Medical Association wants to change state licensing requirements for doctors.

What would be the association's best course of action to bring about this change?

Which of these is the most direct way for a group of teenagers to influence the outcome of a bill that would raise the minimum driving age?

Over the past fifty years, many Americans have moved from the Northeast and the Midwest to the South and the West.

As a result of this population shift, the South and the West have gained influence in

Which of these explains a difference between political parties and interest groups?

Which of these explains why former members of the legislature are often hired as lobbyists?

The population of Massachusetts has increased since 1970, but its representation in Congress has declined.

Which of these best explains why this has happened?

The population of Massachusetts has increased since 1970, but its representation in Congress has declined.

Which of these best explains why this has happened?

Some groups are lobbying to permit citizens to register and vote on election day.

Which of these is an argument against such a measure?

Which of these activities is most likely performed by political parties?

Which of these describes the main purpose of an interest group?

An interest group is most likely to

Which of these government responsibilities is most related to the United States Census?

Which of these is an example of lobbying by a special interest group?

Which of these best explains why candidates for public office often spend more money on advertising during the last week of a campaign?

Reapportionment is based on changes in the

Which of these could result if a state’s population declined over time?

Which of these is the best example of a special interest group?

Why are the seats of the House of Representatives reapportioned every 10 years?

Which of these statements is true about third parties in the United States?

A group of people disagrees with a law supported by the Maryland General Assembly.

In attempting to overturn this law, which process would the group most likely use?

Study the table below.

Which of these predictions can be made from the table about redistricting after the 2010 census?

Which action would a special interest group take to gain support for a law proposed in Congress?

The mass media is sometimes referred to as "the fourth branch of the government" because it

Which of these could result if a state's population declined over time?

Which of these is the best example of a special interest group?

In the United States political process, special interest groups

Which situation would require a state to redraw its congressional districts?

Study the political cartoon and use it to answer the constructed-response question.

• Describe the viewpoint presented in the cartoon.

• Explain why election districts may be gerrymandered.

• Include details and examples to support your answer.

Write your answer on the lines on your Answer Sheet.

Why would political candidates most likely use digital communications during election campaigns?

Why would political candidates most likely use digital communications during election campaigns?

Which argument best supports a policy of open primaries before the general election?

Select the two best ways for citizens to directly influence government actions.