Download Social Studies Sample Question

Social Studies Sample Question
Below are examples of questions that you will find on your Unit Test –
Part I—Multiple Choice
Use the following features of Aztec society to answer Questions 1 and 2.
Feature 1: Aztec society was set up in groups called calpolli, usually made up of
people from the same families or occupations.
Feature 2: The Aztec Emperor had clearly defined roles as the Head of State
and leader of the army.
Feature 3: The clothes worn by Aztecs gave a clear indication of their position in
society.
Feature 4: The children of nobles and commoners in Aztec society went to
different schools.
Feature 5: ???
1. The features listed above could best be used to support the conclusion that
Aztec society
a)
b)
c)
d)
was based on a hierarchical social structure
was highly organized and democratic
valued the wants of the individual over the needs of the state
encouraged the concept of equality among all citizens
2. Which statement could best be used to create a Feature 5, which would
support the same position as the other four Features?
a) The Aztec economy was based on a complicated system of trading and
barter.
b) Aztecs believed that obedience to superiors help preserve the social
order.
c) Slaves in Aztec society were often allowed to own property and have their
rights protected.
d) Punishment in Aztec courts was often the death sentence.
3. With which one of the aspects of Aztec society below would people in Canada
today most likely agree?
a)
b)
c)
d)
The Aztec use of slavery and human sacrifice.
The belief in the god-like status of the leader, the Emperor.
Laws which regulate the type of clothing worn by different social classes.
Beliefs which value citizens who would contribute to the nation.
4. Which of the following facts about slavery in Aztec society could be used to
defend the position that conditions for Aztec slaves were not as bad as in
some other cultures?
a) Slavery was used as a form of punishment for some crimes.
b) Slaves were often used as human sacrifices to nourish the Aztec gods.
c) Slaves had the chance to work their way out of slavery and become
citizens.
d) Slaves performed the jobs in society not considered fit for ordinary
citizens.
5. Medieval society in Europe and the Aztec civilization in Mexico were most
similar in that both societies
a)
b)
c)
d)
believed that all citizens should receive education
were centered around one major city
gave the leader ultimate power in making decisions
encouraged citizens to improve their social status
6. The main goal of education in Aztec society was to
a)
b)
c)
d)
create loyal citizens to strengthen the state
allow citizens to explore their interests and use their talents
teach children about other cultures and civilizations
encourage students to be independent, critical thinkers
7. Large scale Aztec projects such as the building of causeways, dykes and
temples were most likely paid for by
a)
b)
c)
d)
contributions made by the nobles and warriors
selling farm goods and crafts in the marketplace
profits made from the sale of slaves
taxes paid by the merchants and farmers
8. Which of the following facts about the social classes in Aztec society
describes a feature which applied only to the nobility?
a) Education was considered an important preparation for citizenship for this
class.
b) Leaders such as priests and government officials came from this class.
c) The legal system and the rights of others had to be respected.
d) Obedience to superiors was enforced, to preserve social order.
Part II—Written Response
1. a) Use the following Tri-Pie chart to organize your response to the question:
Should service to the state be the main goal of citizens?
Label the chart sections “Yes,” “No,” and “Maybe.” Include at least one
response in each of the three sections of the chart.
b) In your opinion, did the Aztec society benefit from its belief that all citizens
should work primarily to strengthen the state? Explain your position in a
dialogue, using at least two examples from Aztec society to support your
ideas.