This page shows a list of standards in the American Government public release collection at MSDE. American Government
Released Questions in Standard "3.0 Geography"
Select a question from the following list. The content of that question will be shown, and you can interact with it here.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Study the graph below.
Which region probably required the largest increase in overall government services between 1980 and 2000?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which region of Maryland would benefit most from research on Chesapeake Bay's infectious water diseases?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the newspaper headlines below.
CITY COUNCIL CREATES
MASTER PLAN TO MANAGE GROWTH
STATE SEEKS TO BLOCK
HOUSING NEAR COAST
LOCAL GROUP ASKS STATE
TO BUY LAND FOR PARK
These headlines are all related to government involvement in
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these government policies was established specifically to address the problem of air pollution?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the scenario below.
At last night's city council meeting, environmentalists objected to pians for building a new shopping center. The environmentalists said that many native species of plants and animals found at the proposed site would become endangered if the land were developed. Developers say the shopping center will provide new jobs.
What problem does the scenario present for the city government?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these is the most likely impact on counties experiencing population growth?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
When proposing new projects such as airports and highways, federal agencies are required to
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Look at the chart below. Then answer the question.
| PERCENTAGE OF MARYLAND POPULATION IN SELECTED AREAS | ||||
| Baltimore City | Baltimore County | Montgomery County | Prince George's County | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1970 | 21.3% | 15.8% | 13.3% | 16.8% |
| 1980 | 18.7% | 15.5% | 13.7% | 15.8% |
| 1990 | 15.4% | 14.5% | 15.8% | 15.3% |
| 2000 | 13.0% | 13.6% | 16.1% | 15.3% |
Which of these areas would most likely have experienced the greatest decline in tax revenue since 1970?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Look at the chart below. Then answer the question.
| PERCENTAGE OF MARYLAND POPULATION IN SELECTED AREAS | ||||
| Baltimore City | Baltimore County | Montgomery County | Prince George's County | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1970 | 21.3% | 15.8% | 13.3% | 16.8% |
| 1980 | 18.7% | 15.5% | 13.7% | 15.8% |
| 1990 | 15.4% | 14.5% | 15.8% | 15.3% |
| 2000 | 13.0% | 13.6% | 16.1% | 15.3% |
According to the chart, which of these areas most likely had to increase government spending for services from 1970 to 2000?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
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
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these would most likely require interstate cooperation?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Because of the Endangered Species Act, a man was forbidden from planting crops on his land because the habitat of an endangered species would be destroyed.
In the situation above, there is a conflict between a government policy and an individual's
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these government actions would be most effective in protecting the environment?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The population of Massachusetts has increased since 1970, but its representation in Congress has declined.
Which of these best explains why this has happened?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these local population statistics would be most useful in deciding where to construct a public high school?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The Chesapeake Bay has recently suffered a decline in the oyster population. At the urging of citizens, Virginia and Maryland have cooperated in passing legislation to restore the oyster population.
The above is an example of
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Arizona, California, and Colorado all claim the right to use the water from the Colorado River for their water needs.
The most effective way to resolve the water rights dispute would be for
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
The population of Maryland's state bird, the Baltimore oriole, has decreased due to the destruction of its habitat.
- Describe some ways the Maryland government can help preserve the species.
- Which way do you think will be most effective? Explain your choice.
- Include details and examples in your answer.
Write your answer on the lines in your Answer Book.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these sources would be most reliable for determining interstate migration patterns?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these public agencies usually decides local land-use issues?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these is an example of government funding based on population?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these is the most effective way for a state government to reduce pollution in a river?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
A toy company is moving its main production plant to a Maryland county.
Which of these would be the most likely effect on the county?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these actions is least likely to involve cooperation between neighboring state governments?
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
In some eastern Arizona counties, the largest segment of the population is under 18 years of age. By contrast, in some western counties of Arizona, a large segment of the population is 65 years or older.
- Based on the information above, describe likely government goals in both eastern and western Arizona.
- Why do larger population groups tend to have more influence on government policy?
- Include details and examples to support your response.
Write your answer on the lines in your Answer Book.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers home loans at low interest rates to low-income borrowers who live in rural communities.
What is most likely the purpose of this government program?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the news article excerpt below.
NEW SYSTEM FOR COLLECTING TOLLS
The Maryland Transportation Authority has announced that commuters can now use an electronic device at toll plazas in most Northeastern states. This device is placed in cars and deducts toll fees electronically. This will allow commuters to pass through toll plazas without stopping.
Which of these is most likely a result of the action described in the news article?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the news article excerpt below.
NEW SYSTEM FOR COLLECTING TOLLS
The Maryland Transportation Authority has announced that commuters can now use an electronic device at toll plazas in most Northeastern states. This device is placed in cars and deducts toll fees electronically. This will allow commuters to pass through toll plazas without stopping.
Which of these does the news article describe?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Recently, the State of Maryland chose to make more decisions regarding land use state-wide.
Which of these actions is least likely to be part of this new role?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Environmentalists have most often opposed government policies that
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
In 2000, the population of Frederick County, Maryland, was 195,277, which was an increase of 30 percent from 1990.
Which of these contributed to the change in population?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the news article excerpt below.
Representatives from Western states introduced a bill in Congress that would reduce demands for electricity and increase the power supply. The bill would allow clean air and endangered species protection rules to be waived during an energy crisis. Western states say the legislation is necessary to prevent an energy crisis. Opponents of the bill believe that the environment will suffer if the bill is passed.
The bill described in the excerpt above is an example of
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
Read the headline below and use it to answer the BRIEF CONSTRUCTED RESPONSE that follows.
- Describe actions Maryland state and local governments could take in response to this headline.
- Which government action do you think would be most effective in solving this problem? Explain why.
- Include details and examples to support your answer.
Write your answer on the lines in your Answer Book.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The Susquehanna River flows through New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.
Which of these is the most effective way to resolve disputes over the use and protection of the river?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these government responsibilities is most related to the United States Census?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The Maryland State Highway Administration is considering a plan to widen three miles of a major route from two lanes to six lanes.
Which of these most likely caused this planned action?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides help to landowners who want to restore wetlands located on their property.
What is most likely the purpose of this program?
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
Study the graph below and use it to answer the BRIEF CONSTRUCTED RESPONSE that follows.
- Using the information in the bar graph, identify funding decisions the Maryland General Assembly would make regarding money for local governments.
- Describe the effects these decisions would have on local government decisions.
- Include details from the graph to support your answer.
Write your answer on the lines in your Answer Book.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The Clean Alternative program was developed by the Maryland state government to encourage businesses, such as taxicab companies, to switch to cars that use new technologies that are less harmful to the environment.
Which of these government actions would support the goal of this program?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The states of Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware joined together during the 1980s and 1990s in an effort to reduce pollution in the Chesapeake Bay. This is an example of a government policy being shaped by
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Maryland lost approximately 10,000 acres of forest land each year between 1985 and 1990. Which of these government actions would have done the most to reduce the loss?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these best explains why local governments create zoning laws?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the news article excerpt below.
CITY PLANNING COMMISSION TO MEET
The population of the city has greatly increased since 1990. Current proposals for development include expansion of the airport and the construction of a large industrial center. The city planning commission will meet this month to discuss these expansion issues.
Which of these government responsibilities is most closely related to the activity described in the excerpt?
This is a question with 2 parts, including a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Reapportionment is based on changes in the
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the news article excerpt below.
RUNOFF THREAT TO
CHESAPEAKE BAY
Rainwater runoff has become a threat to the Chesapeake Bay. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the runoff brings sand, mud, and pollutants into the watershed. Government officials in Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Pennsylvania have developed a plan to address the problem.
The government action in the news article is an example of
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
Read the information below and use it to answer the BRIEF CONSTRUCTED RESPONSE that follows.
The Baltimore Metropolitan Council represents the governments of five neighboring counties. The Council oversees air and water quality programs and helps operate a regional rideshare program.
- Describe the advantages and disadvantages of this type of regional cooperation.
- Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? Explain why or why not.
- Include details and examples to support your answer.
Write your answer on the lines in your Answer Book.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these environmental issues would be the least likely topic for joint action by the United States and Canada?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these actions best describes regional cooperation?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Look at the chart below.
| PERCENT CHANGE IN POPULATION FROM 1990 TO 2000 IN THE WASHINGTON METROPOLITAN REGION | |
| Region | Percent Increase |
|---|---|
| Anne Arundel County | 14.6% |
| Calvert County | 45.1% |
| Frederick County | 30.0% |
| Howard County | 32.3% |
| Prince George's County | 10.9% |
| Saint Mary's County | 13.5% |
| Source: United States Census Bureau | |
Which of these is an effect of the population changes shown on the chart?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these could result if a state’s population declined over time?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
According to the 2000 census, the population of Frederick County increased by 30 percent since 1990.
Which of these most likely occurred as a result of the population change?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The United States Census Bureau projects that the percentage of people over 85 years old will triple in the next fifty years.
What federal government action could best help the United States adjust to this demographic trend?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these would not require regional cooperation by local governments?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The Baltimore Metropolitan Council and the Maryland Department of Transportation administer a grant program that helps area businesses establish ways that employees can work from home.
Which of these is most likely the purpose of this program?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The state of Maryland purchased a large tract of open space from a housing developer.
Which of these is most likely the reason for this purchase?
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
Study the maps below and use them to answer the BRIEF CONSTRUCTED RESPONSE that follows.
- Explain how the problems faced by local governments in the metropolitan areas of Maryland differ from those in other regions of the state.
- Which problem is most critical? Explain why.
- Include details and examples to support your answer.
Write your answer on the lines in your Answer Book.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the headline below.
Which of these issues is most likely being addressed by the headline?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Why are the seats of the House of Representatives reapportioned every 10 years?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The Tri-County Council for Western Maryland helps local businesses export their products overseas.
What is a purpose of this program?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Agriculture is a major part of the Midwest's economy.
Which of these would provide the most immediate improvement to the region's economy?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Study the table below.
| Maryland Population | |||
| 1990 Census | 2010 Projected | % Change | |
|---|---|---|---|
| All of Maryland | 4,781,468 | 5,738,350 | +20% |
| Baltimore City | 736,014 | 672,500 | –9% |
| Baltimore County | 692,134 | 739,000 | +7% |
| Calvert County | 51,372 | 96,000 | +87% |
| Frederick County | 150,208 | 243,000 | +62% |
Which of these predictions can be made from the table about redistricting after the 2010 census?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these possible actions by the Baltimore City government would probably attract the largest number of new residents to the city?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the information below.
Counties in the Baltimore region signed an agreement to stop algae growth in area reservoirs. Algae growth can cause problems with the taste and odor of drinking water.
This agreement is an example of
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Calvert County grew 45% between 1990 and 2000. Which of these events most likely occurred as the population grew?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the excerpt below.
EPA REVIEWS POLLUTION LIMITS
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to monitor levels of pollutants found in drinking water. Research has shown that high levels of pollutants can contribute to long-term health problems.
The EPA is currently reviewing pollution limits for the mining and smelting industries, which contribute to the pollution. Industry officials assert however, that the extra cost associated with reducing water pollution will force some companies to shut down.
Which of these statements is best supported by the excerpt above?
| A | Excerpt shows interest in regulating private industry. |
| B | Key: |
| C | No reference to funding. |
| D | If industry sets its own regulations, pollution referenced in the excerpt will continue to build. |
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these would require regional cooperation?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these is the goal of a state law to reduce air and water pollution?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these could result if a state's population declined over time?
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
Study the maps and use them to answer the constructed-response item.
- Explain how the problems faced by local governments in the metropolitan areas of Maryland differ from those in other regions of the state.
- Which problem is most critical? Explain why.
- Include details and examples to support your answer.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these would not require regional cooperation by local governments?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The United States Census Bureau projects that the percentage of people over 85 years old will triple in the next fifty years.
What federal government action could best help the United States adjust to this demographic trend?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The Baltimore Metropolitan Council and the Maryland Department of Transportation administer a grant program that helps area businesses establish ways that employees can work from home.
Which of these is most likely the purpose of this program?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The state of Maryland purchased a large tract of open space from a housing developer.
Which of these is most likely the reason for this purchase?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which of these environmental issues would be the least likely topic for joint action by the United States and Canada?
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
Read the information and use it to answer the constructed-response question.
Some natural resources, such as the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River, are located in more than one state.
- Explain the difficulties the Maryland state government might face when trying to create and carry out policies regarding a natural resource that it shares with other states.
- Why is it important for Maryland to work with the other states to develop such policies? Explain your answer.
- Include details and examples to support your answer.
Write your answer on the lines on your Answer Sheet.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which situation would require a state to redraw its congressional districts?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Scientists predict an increase in the number of poor air quality days in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area.
What action can Maryland's state government take to address this situation?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Congress plans to pass legislation designed to prevent the use of the Internet to steal personal information.
What is the most likely reason Congress would take this action?
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
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.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the information.
In 2008, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources considered whether to allow power companies to clear mountaintop areas in the Potomac and Savage River state forests to build 100 electricity-producing wind turbines.
The proposal to construct wind turbines in Maryland state forests was intended to promote
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Read the excerpt.
"November 15, 1990, marks a milestone in Clean Air Act history . . . [This milestone was] the signing of the 1990 Amendments. These amendments set the stage for protecting the ozone layer, reducing acid rain and toxic [substances], and improving air quality and visibility."
—"Celebrating the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990," Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
What was the primary purpose of these amendments?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
The goal of a Washington, D.C., area program is to encourage the use of vehicles that use alternative fuels.
What is a purpose of this program?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select several options.
The state of Maryland is a leader in environmental preservation and restoration. For example, Maryland aims to protect the state’s farmland and other natural resources while enhancing existing communities.
Select the three government actions or strategies that would help meet these aims.
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Which government body makes decisions about where new homes and businesses may be located?
This is a multiple choice question that allows you to select only one option.
Maryland offers tax breaks for farmers who donate the development rights of their land to the state.
What is the purpose of this program?
This is a test question that allows you to enter extended text in your response.
Read the information and use it to answer the constructed-response question.
| The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution states that the government can only seize private property in cases where the property is to be used for public use and only if the owner receives fair compensation for the loss of the property. |
- Describe an example of a situation in which the government would be allowed to seize private property.
- Explain how this amendment helps to uphold the principle of limited government.
- Include details and examples to support your answer.
Type your answer in the space provided.