Agricultural Education (Grades 5–12)
Subtest 2 Sample Items
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Question 1
1. It would be most important for a small agricultural business to calculate its current ratio to determine
if the:
- assets of the business have been effectively used to earn income for investors in the last quarter.
- business is showing a greater profit or loss than at the same time in the previous quarter.
- current debt owed by the business is greater or less than the financial equity of its owners.
- business can cover its short-term financial obligations with the assets that it has on hand.
Answer to question 1
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0009) The current ratio is
defined as the current assets of a company divided by its current liabilities. As such it measures the
company's ability to cover its short-term financial obligations with the assets that it has on hand.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0009) The current ratio is defined as the current
assets of a company divided by its current liabilities. As such it measures the company's ability to
cover its short-term financial obligations with the assets that it has on hand.
Question 2
2. Which of the following is an example of strategic planning on the part of managers of a small farm
that currently grows strawberries only for the wholesale market?
- choosing a particular variety of strawberry to plant for harvesting the following two or three seasons
- deciding to open a farm stand and enter the retail market for berries and related products (e.g., jam)
- identifying which fields have become underproductive and should be replanted with young plants
- estimating the amount and type of labor that will be required to harvest and pack the current year's
crop
Answer to question 2
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0009) There are basically
two types of planning, operational and strategic. Strategic planning involves long-term changes to a
business's way of doing things or its core mission. In this case, a decision to enter the retail market
by opening a farm stand, and especially to offer other related value-added products (e.g., jam), would
have major implications for how the business operates and would be an example of strategic planning.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0009) There are basically two types of planning,
operational and strategic. Strategic planning involves long-term changes to a business's way of doing
things or its core mission. In this case, a decision to enter the retail market by opening a farm stand,
and especially to offer other related value-added products (e.g., jam), would have major implications
for how the business operates and would be an example of strategic planning.
Question 3
3. In a limited partnership, one difference between general and limited partners is that limited partners:
- lose their investment if they decide to drop out of the partnership.
- put less money or other resources into the formation of the business.
- do not have to pay separate business taxes on the profits earned by the business.
- do not have the right to take part in managerial decision making.
Answer to question 3
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0009) There are usually two
types of partnerships, general and limited. In a general partnership, the rights and responsibilities
of all partners are spelled out in the partnership agreement, but all partners, may if they wish, take
part in decision making. In a limited partnership, the limited partners are usually treated as investors
in the business. They do not take an active role in managing the business, although they can make management
suggestions to general partners, inspect the business, and make copies of business records.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0009) There are usually two types of partnerships,
general and limited. In a general partnership, the rights and responsibilities of all partners are spelled
out in the partnership agreement, but all partners, may if they wish, take part in decision making.
In a limited partnership, the limited partners are usually treated as investors in the business. They
do not take an active role in managing the business, although they can make management suggestions to
general partners, inspect the business, and make copies of business records.
Question 4
4. Which of the following best describes the primary role of the entrepreneur in agriculture in Minnesota?
- providing innovations in the form of new products or production methods
- creating new markets for existing products by using innovative marketing techniques
- creating downward pressure on prices by producing goods more cheaply than established businesses
- assuming the risks associated with starting and maintaining new businesses
Answer to question 4
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0009) Starting a new business
takes a great deal of time and effort. About half of new businesses fail within the first two years,
and many others languish without growing into anything that resembles the entrepreneur's dream when
the business was started. Most established businesses are risk-aversive and fairly conservative. This
is a sensible approach; if something is working, why change it? The entrepreneur is the person responsible
for starting new businesses and must be willing to take considerable risks in investment of time and
money in doing so. Thus, most entrepreneurs are self-confident and risk-tolerant individuals who benefit
the marketplace by starting new business that will provide competition with established companies, which
helps keep the overall market healthy.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0009) Starting a new business takes a great deal
of time and effort. About half of new businesses fail within the first two years, and many others languish
without growing into anything that resembles the entrepreneur's dream when the business was started.
Most established businesses are risk-aversive and fairly conservative. This is a sensible approach;
if something is working, why change it? The entrepreneur is the person responsible for starting new
businesses and must be willing to take considerable risks in investment of time and money in doing so.
Thus, most entrepreneurs are self-confident and risk-tolerant individuals who benefit the marketplace
by starting new business that will provide competition with established companies, which helps keep
the overall market healthy.
Question 5
5. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and other free trade treaties have been blamed for
outsourcing of U.S. jobs to countries in Central and South America that have cheap labor and fewer environmental
and safety regulations. Which of the following is one example where this process is reversed and these
countries lose jobs and income to the United States?
- Small farmers in Mexico often cannot compete with imported agricultural commodities due to economies
of scale and mechanization of U.S. farms.
- Tourism in Peru cannot compete with tourism within the United States due to better organized and more
efficient U.S. travel agencies.
- High-tech entrepreneurs in Brazil cannot compete with those in the United States because they lack
ready access to government financing.
- Real estate prices in some areas of Costa Rica have risen beyond the means of local residents due to
competition with wealthy U.S. expatriates.
Answer to question 5
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: A. (Objective 0010) One effect of free
trade is that competition between countries for markets will increase. If there are no barriers to trade,
the global market will, like other markets, tend to force producers to specialize in the production
of goods and services for which they have a comparative advantage. For example, low wages for relatively
unskilled labor gives certain countries, such as Honduras, a comparative advantage in the production
of textiles. In the U.S., farming of some commodities (e.g., wheat, corn, soybeans) is mechanized and
large farms can take advantage of economies of scale. This means that smaller, local farmers in many
other countries cannot produce these commodities at a low enough price to compete with U.S. imports.
Correct Response: A. (Objective 0010) One effect of free trade is that competition
between countries for markets will increase. If there are no barriers to trade, the global market will,
like other markets, tend to force producers to specialize in the production of goods and services for
which they have a comparative advantage. For example, low wages for relatively unskilled labor gives
certain countries, such as Honduras, a comparative advantage in the production of textiles. In the U.S.,
farming of some commodities (e.g., wheat, corn, soybeans) is mechanized and large farms can take advantage
of economies of scale. This means that smaller, local farmers in many other countries cannot produce
these commodities at a low enough price to compete with U.S. imports.
Question 6
6. A nursery manager, who has worked for many years for a large nursery, has decided to start a business
organized as a sole proprietorship. During the first year of its operation, which of the following is
the opportunity cost to the manager of this decision?
- interest on the debt that the business must carry during its first year of operation
- start-up expenses for the new business, such as equipment, materials, and nursery stock
- the average number of hours the manager must work each week to run the business
- the salary that the manager would have earned by continuing to work at her original job
Answer to question 6
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0010) Opportunity cost is
defined as the highest-valued alternative that must be given up to engage in an activity. In this case,
the highest-valued alternative to opening this new business is the wages that would have been earned
had the nursery manager decided to stay employed at her original job.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0010) Opportunity cost is defined as the highest-valued
alternative that must be given up to engage in an activity. In this case, the highest-valued alternative
to opening this new business is the wages that would have been earned had the nursery manager decided
to stay employed at her original job.
Question 7
7. Which of the following best illustrates the concept of diminishing returns in an agricultural business?
- Past a certain point, the application of more fertilizer to a field of soybeans does not lead to increased
marginal yields.
- An over-supply of winter wheat causes a price drop and leads many farmers to plant fewer acres the
next year.
- A small drop in the amount of pesticide used on a crop of potatoes results in a disproportionate increase
in beetle infestation.
- Inefficiency and waste leads to lower production figures for a large sugar beet farm compared to a
smaller neighboring farm.
Answer to question 7
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: A. (Objective 0010) The concept of diminishing
returns implies that there is an upper limit for any particular input into a system, beyond which no
increase in marginal output will be observed. Diminishing returns sets in when output per unit of input
(i.e., marginal output) decreases, even if total output is still increasing. In more extreme cases output
may actually decrease as input is increased. For example, overfertilization of a field may burn plant
roots, cause rapid growth of weeds, or change the pH of the soil.
Correct Response: A. (Objective 0010) The concept of diminishing returns implies
that there is an upper limit for any particular input into a system, beyond which no increase in marginal
output will be observed. Diminishing returns sets in when output per unit of input (i.e., marginal output)
decreases, even if total output is still increasing. In more extreme cases output may actually decrease
as input is increased. For example, overfertilization of a field may burn plant roots, cause rapid growth
of weeds, or change the pH of the soil.
Question 8
8. A trade pact between the United States and Japan that eliminates tariffs on U.S. corn shipped to
Japan to be used as livestock feed is likely to lead to:
- reduced prices to the U.S. consumer for corn-based ethanol.
- lower prices to the Japanese consumer for beef and pork.
- increased price of soybeans and its derivatives in Japan.
- Japanese meat producers switching from corn to other feeds.
Answer to question 8
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0010) In general, the elimination
of trade barriers on certain goods between two countries leads to lower prices for those goods in both
countries. This is explained primarily by the concepts of absolute and comparative advantage. One country
may hold an absolute or comparative advantage for a particular product that allows it to be sold more
cheaply in the other country than a similar domestically produced product. The reverse may hold true
for a different product. Thus, large, highly mechanized farms in the United States can produce corn
much more cheaply than farms in Japan. Even accounting for shipping costs, this corn can be sold in
Japan more cheaply than domestically produced corn and, when used as animal feed, would lower the cost
of production and, hence, the price of beef and pork.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0010) In general, the elimination of trade barriers
on certain goods between two countries leads to lower prices for those goods in both countries. This
is explained primarily by the concepts of absolute and comparative advantage. One country may hold an
absolute or comparative advantage for a particular product that allows it to be sold more cheaply in
the other country than a similar domestically produced product. The reverse may hold true for a different
product. Thus, large, highly mechanized farms in the United States can produce corn much more cheaply
than farms in Japan. Even accounting for shipping costs, this corn can be sold in Japan more cheaply
than domestically produced corn and, when used as animal feed, would lower the cost of production and,
hence, the price of beef and pork.
Question 9
9. A nursery that has specialized in the sale of bedding plants to area gardeners has seen its sales
fall dramatically due to competition with a big-box discount store that has recently opened in the town.
Which of the following is likely to be the most effective strategy for the nursery to follow to compete
with the big-box store and maintain long-term profits?
- implementing an aggressive ad campaign aimed at dissuading customers from shopping at the big-box store
- diversifying the products and services offered to reduce overlap with the big-box store
- competing directly with the big-box store by expanding the size of its nursery and increasing the volume
of bedding plant sales
- lowering prices on bedding plants to a level below those offered at the big-box store
Answer to question 9
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0011) Due to economies of
scale, it is generally impossible for a small business to compete directly with a much larger one. In
this case, the small nursery can best compete by offering services that the big-box store cannot, such
as advice about plant selection and growing methods, or products, such as unusual plants that are not
offered by the big-box store. Since it is unlikely to be able to compete directly on the basis of price,
the best way for the nursery to stay solvent is to reduce the overlap between its products and services
and those of the big-box store.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0011) Due to economies of scale, it is generally
impossible for a small business to compete directly with a much larger one. In this case, the small
nursery can best compete by offering services that the big-box store cannot, such as advice about plant
selection and growing methods, or products, such as unusual plants that are not offered by the big-box
store. Since it is unlikely to be able to compete directly on the basis of price, the best way for the
nursery to stay solvent is to reduce the overlap between its products and services and those of the
big-box store.
Question 10
10. Which of the following is the best example of market segmentation by offering an agricultural product
that is intended to appeal to a well-defined target market?
- A large company sells broilers whole, cut-up, and as separate cuts to supermarkets.
- A company provides organically raised beef for sale in upscale grocery stores.
- A strawberry farmer offers picked and boxed as well as pick-your-own berries.
- A dairy cooperative sells milk products from all its members under one brand name.
Answer to question 10
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0011) Market segmentation
involves selecting a group of potential customers and concentrating marketing efforts on that group.
The group selected could be defined by a wide variety of chacteristics (e.g., economic status, ethnicity,
beliefs, occupation, avocation, lifestyle). In this case, the target market is defined by a commonality
of belief, as well as economic status and lifestyle. Placement of the product in upscale stores is an
example of how marketing is closely tied to the identification of the target market.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0011) Market segmentation involves selecting a
group of potential customers and concentrating marketing efforts on that group. The group selected could
be defined by a wide variety of chacteristics (e.g., economic status, ethnicity, beliefs, occupation,
avocation, lifestyle). In this case, the target market is defined by a commonality of belief, as well
as economic status and lifestyle. Placement of the product in upscale stores is an example of how marketing
is closely tied to the identification of the target market.
Question 11
11. A Minnesota farmer grows a crop of potatoes. The farmer sells the potatoes to a wholesaler, who
bags some of the potatoes and sells them to a distributor. The wholesaler sells the rest of the potatoes
to a company that makes french fries. This company distributes the french fries to a supermarket chain
that sells them to consumers. Which element in this distribution chain is likely to make the greatest
profit on the potatoes?
- the company that makes the french fries
- the farmer who grows the potatoes
- the supermarket that sells the french fries
- the wholesaler who buys the potatoes from the farmer
Answer to question 11
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: A. (Objective 0011) The question demonstrates
the value-added concept and how it influences profits in the distribution of agricultural products.
Value-added features are those that increase the value of a product so that it can be sold at a higher
price. One example might be selling apple pies at a farm stand. The profit from each apple in the pie
is far greater than what it would be if the apple were sold raw. In this case, the value-added feature
is primarily the production of french fries, and the price for which the potatoes can be sold increases
accordingly.
Correct Response: A. (Objective 0011) The question demonstrates the value-added
concept and how it influences profits in the distribution of agricultural products. Value-added features
are those that increase the value of a product so that it can be sold at a higher price. One example
might be selling apple pies at a farm stand. The profit from each apple in the pie is far greater than
what it would be if the apple were sold raw. In this case, the value-added feature is primarily the
production of french fries, and the price for which the potatoes can be sold increases accordingly.
Question 12
12. Which of the following is the best example of bait-and-switch advertising in an agricultural lawn
and garden equipment store?
- The store offers low sale prices on selected items, but customers discover that most of the items are
lower quality compared with other brands sold by the store.
- The store advertises a very low price on one brand of lawn tractor, but has only a few available and
tries to get customers to purchase a more expensive brand instead.
- The store offers a half-price sale on a certain brand of tiller that it will no longer stock but cautions
customers in the ad that there are only fifty items of this brand available.
- The store marks down one brand of mower to close to cost in the hopes that customers who come to buy
this mower will also buy other products that are not marked down.
Answer to question 12
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0011) Bait-and-switch advertising
is a method for luring customers into a store. Typically, an item is advertised at a very low price,
but no items or only a few items are available. Customers are told that the item on sale is "sold out"
but that another, more expensive brand is available. Bait-and-switch advertising is illegal under most
states' truth-in-advertising laws. The seller is protected from a charge of bait-and-switch if rain
checks are offered or if the advertisement states up front that quantities are limited.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0011) Bait-and-switch advertising is a method for
luring customers into a store. Typically, an item is advertised at a very low price, but no items or
only a few items are available. Customers are told that the item on sale is "sold out" but that another,
more expensive brand is available. Bait-and-switch advertising is illegal under most states' truth-in-advertising
laws. The seller is protected from a charge of bait-and-switch if rain checks are offered or if the
advertisement states up front that quantities are limited.
Question 13
13. Which of the following is the best example of the application of the value-added concept to the
sale of agricultural products?
- A dairy cooperative makes a variety of cheeses and yogurts from members' milk for sale under one brand.
- A chain of home and garden equipment stores marks down lawnmower prices at the end of the summer.
- A small farm stand always gives its customers an extra ear of corn when they purchase a dozen ears.
- A strawberry grower allows customers to pick their own berries at a lower price than already picked
berries.
Answer to question 13
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: A. (Objective 0011) Making cheeses and
yogurt from milk enhances the value of the primary product. Value-added describes the enhancement that
a business gives its products and services before offering the product or service to its customers.
These enhancements should increase the price at which the product or service can be sold. The cost of
adding the enhancement must be lower than the difference in price between the enhanced and the non-enhanced
product.
Correct Response: A. (Objective 0011) Making cheeses and yogurt from milk enhances
the value of the primary product. Value-added describes the enhancement that a business gives its products
and services before offering the product or service to its customers. These enhancements should increase
the price at which the product or service can be sold. The cost of adding the enhancement must be lower
than the difference in price between the enhanced and the non-enhanced product.
Question 14
14. Which of the following best explains how a block and tackle works?
- A block and tackle reduces the amount of resistance needed to move an object by reducing the friction
between the object and the ground.
- A block and tackle reduces the magnitude of force needed to do work on an object by increasing the
distance over which the force acts.
- A block and tackle reduces the amount of energy needed to move an object by increasing the magnitude
of the force applied to the object.
- A block and tackle reduces the amount of work needed to move an object by converting an object's kinetic
energy into potential energy.
Answer to question 14
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0012) A block and tackle
operates on the principle of work and the conservation of energy. Work (energy) is expressed as force
times the distance over which it acts. Thus, work can be done by using a large force over a short distance
or a smaller force over a longer distance so long as the product of force times distance is the same
in both cases.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0012) A block and tackle operates on the principle
of work and the conservation of energy. Work (energy) is expressed as force times the distance over
which it acts. Thus, work can be done by using a large force over a short distance or a smaller force
over a longer distance so long as the product of force times distance is the same in both cases.
Question 15
15. In the middle of winter in Minnesota, a mechanic is working on adjusting the timing and tuning up
of a farm truck in the bay of a garage that is heated by several electric radiant space heaters. The
best way to ensure safety during this procedure would be for the mechanic to:
- keep the floor of the bay clear of oil and gasoline stains that heat from the space heaters might ignite.
- wear an air-purifying face mask respirator to prevent inhaling exhaust fumes when the engine is running.
- run a plastic hose from the tailpipe through the garage door to vent exhaust when the engine is running.
- turn off the space heaters so that combustible gases released while cleaning the engine parts do not
ignite.
Answer to question 15
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0012) A major health hazard
for mechanics is inhaling exhaust when working on a vehicle in a closed environment. For this reason,
repair shops require some means to ensure that exhaust is discharged from the garage. Active ventilation
systems may be installed to provide a continuous source of fresh air, or the exhaust produced by each
vehicle may be individually vented to the outside by attaching an airtight plastic hose to the tailpipe
and running the hose through the wall or door.
Correct Response: C. (Objective 0012) A major health hazard for mechanics is inhaling
exhaust when working on a vehicle in a closed environment. For this reason, repair shops require some
means to ensure that exhaust is discharged from the garage. Active ventilation systems may be installed
to provide a continuous source of fresh air, or the exhaust produced by each vehicle may be individually
vented to the outside by attaching an airtight plastic hose to the tailpipe and running the hose through
the wall or door.
Question 16
16. Two workers are loading a small tractor onto the bed of a truck by pushing it up an inclined plane.
Which of the following best explains why less force is necessary to move the tractor up the plane than
if it was lifted onto the truck straight up from the ground?
- The potential energy of the tractor is lower on the inclined plane.
- The force exerted by the workers acts over a longer distance.
- The force of gravity acts at an angle rather than solely vertically.
- The friction of the wheels helps stabilize the tractor as it moves up the plane.
Answer to question 16
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0012) The work that must
be done by the workers to lift the tractor against the force of gravity onto the truck bed is the same
whether it is lifted on or rolled up the inclined plane. However, the formula for Work is Force X Distance.
If the distance that the object is moved is increased, the amount of force necessary to move the object
at any point in time is decreased.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0012) The work that must be done by the workers
to lift the tractor against the force of gravity onto the truck bed is the same whether it is lifted
on or rolled up the inclined plane. However, the formula for Work is Force X Distance. If the distance
that the object is moved is increased, the amount of force necessary to move the object at any point
in time is decreased.
Question 17
17. A farm worker is driving an older truck down a slight slope. When the worker applies the brakes,
the pedal goes all the way to the floor and the truck does not slow down. Which of the following is
the most likely problem with the truck's braking system?
- The linkage between the pedal and the rest of the system is too loose.
- The brake linings have worn through and metal is scraping against metal.
- The hydraulic system has been leaking fluid and the master cylinder is empty.
- The calipers of the brakes are set too wide and the linings are not making full contact.
Answer to question 17
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0012) A truck's braking system
is powered by the use of hydraulics. Lines run from the master cylinders to each of the brakes. Depressing
the brake pedal causes pressure in the hydraulic system to be transmitted to the brakes causing the
brake linings to engage and use friction to slow and stop the vehicle. Loss of fluid due to a leak in
the lines means that no power is transmitted from the brake pedal to the braking system at each wheel.
Fluid leaks can be detected in older, nonsealed systems by examining the level in the master cylinder.
Correct Response: C. (Objective 0012) A truck's braking system is powered by the
use of hydraulics. Lines run from the master cylinders to each of the brakes. Depressing the brake pedal
causes pressure in the hydraulic system to be transmitted to the brakes causing the brake linings to
engage and use friction to slow and stop the vehicle. Loss of fluid due to a leak in the lines means
that no power is transmitted from the brake pedal to the braking system at each wheel. Fluid leaks can
be detected in older, nonsealed systems by examining the level in the master cylinder.
Question 18
18. In the spring, a homeowner purchases two gallons of gas at the pump for use in a lawnmower. The
homeowner only uses one gallon and stores the rest for the following year. The next spring, the homeowner
pours this gas into the lawnmower's tank, which still contains gas from the previous summer. Which of
the following best explains why the lawnmower may be difficult to start?
- The gas from the previous summer has evaporated from the carburetor, requiring priming before starting.
- The homeowner failed to add gas stabilizer, and the gas has degraded, leaving gummy deposits in the
carburetor.
- Oil from the engine crankcase has infiltrated the gas, making it less flammable and more difficult
to vaporize.
- Plastic from the gas container has leached into the gas over the winter, making it difficult for the
spark plug to ignite.
Answer to question 18
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0012) Over time, stored gasoline
will oxidize as it comes into contact with air. The oxidative process produces gum, resin, and varnish
as by-products. This will quickly clog fuel lines and the carburetor in a small engine, making it difficult
or impossible to start. Gas stabilizer will slow down this oxidative process and should be routinely
added to gasoline that is not going to be immediately used. However, even using gas stabilizer may not
be sufficient, since the ethanol that is present in gasoline sold at gas stations attracts water into
the gas and can also prevent easy starting. For best results, small engines should be emptied of gas
at the end of the season or run dry, or gas that contains no ethanol and also contains gas stabilizer
should be used if the engine is not going to be used for a period of time.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0012) Over time, stored gasoline will oxidize as
it comes into contact with air. The oxidative process produces gum, resin, and varnish as by-products.
This will quickly clog fuel lines and the carburetor in a small engine, making it difficult or impossible
to start. Gas stabilizer will slow down this oxidative process and should be routinely added to gasoline
that is not going to be immediately used. However, even using gas stabilizer may not be sufficient,
since the ethanol that is present in gasoline sold at gas stations attracts water into the gas and can
also prevent easy starting. For best results, small engines should be emptied of gas at the end of the
season or run dry, or gas that contains no ethanol and also contains gas stabilizer should be used if
the engine is not going to be used for a period of time.
Question 19
19. One of the main differences in function between band saws and table saws is that band saws:
- are able to cross cut as well as rip pieces of wood.
- can cut larger pieces of wood such as plywood sheets.
- are able to make curved as well as straight cuts.
- can be adjusted to cut at angles other than 90°.
Answer to question 19
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0013) Table saws have adjustable
circular blades that are centered in a table, while band saws use a continuous narrow strip of metal
with teeth on one side. The circular nature of the table saw blade limits the use of table saws to making
straight cuts in wood, while the narrow band of the band saw allows it to make curved cuts. The narrower
the band of the band saw, the greater the curve that can be cut.
Correct Response: C. (Objective 0013) Table saws have adjustable circular blades
that are centered in a table, while band saws use a continuous narrow strip of metal with teeth on one
side. The circular nature of the table saw blade limits the use of table saws to making straight cuts
in wood, while the narrow band of the band saw allows it to make curved cuts. The narrower the band
of the band saw, the greater the curve that can be cut.
Question 20
20. Which of the following best describes one difference between the use of particleboard and the use
of plywood for exterior sheathing in constructing a confinement facility?
- Plywood provides better diagonal bracing for walls than particleboard.
- Particleboard is easier to nail to the studs below than plywood.
- Plywood provides significantly greater insulation value than particleboard.
- Particleboard is more resistant to weather damage and moisture than plywood.
Answer to question 20
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: A. (Objective 0013) Plywood is formed of
sheets of wood glued together. The grain of each sheet runs in a different direction so the entire sheet
is very resistant to forces in all directions that would distort the plywood in the x-y plane. Particleboard
is formed of chips of wood that are embedded in glue and does not have the same resistance to forces
that would distort the sheet in the x-y plane. Using plywood as an exterior sheathing material thus
adds diagonal bracing to a wall because it resists forces that would cause the wall to deform from a
rectangular to a nonrectangular parallelogram shape.
Correct Response: A. (Objective 0013) Plywood is formed of sheets of wood glued
together. The grain of each sheet runs in a different direction so the entire sheet is very resistant
to forces in all directions that would distort the plywood in the x-y plane. Particleboard is formed
of chips of wood that are embedded in glue and does not have the same resistance to forces that would
distort the sheet in the x-y plane. Using plywood as an exterior sheathing material thus adds diagonal
bracing to a wall because it resists forces that would cause the wall to deform from a rectangular to
a nonrectangular parallelogram shape.
Question 21
21. A farmer wishes to irrigate a tomato field. Water for irrigation is cheap and plentiful since the
farmer has a small pond on the land. In this situation, which of the following types of irrigation systems
would be least expensive to install and maintain?
- subsurface
- sprinkler
- drip
- furrow
Answer to question 21
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0013) The simplest type of
irrigation in this situation is to plant the tomatoes on a raised bed with narrow furrows between each
row. Such a system requires only that water be pumped and released at the head of each furrow. Other
systems mentioned require more sophisticated hardware and higher installation costs. One disadvantage
of a furrow system is that the plants at the end of the furrow often receive less water than those at
the head of the furrow.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0013) The simplest type of irrigation in this situation
is to plant the tomatoes on a raised bed with narrow furrows between each row. Such a system requires
only that water be pumped and released at the head of each furrow. Other systems mentioned require more
sophisticated hardware and higher installation costs. One disadvantage of a furrow system is that the
plants at the end of the furrow often receive less water than those at the head of the furrow.
Question 22
22. A fixed-base hand-held router would be the tool of choice for which of the following woodworking
applications?
- drilling holes in very hard decking for the insertion of screws
- smoothing the surface of a 1 X 10 plank by removing a thin layer of wood
- creating a smooth, rounded edge on a long piece of wood
- making beveled crosscuts in 1 X 4 boards to make tight joints for window frames
Answer to question 22
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0013) Routers are used to
produce finished edges and shapes and consist of a motor and a spinning blade or bit that projects below
a fixed base plate. The bit spins at very high speeds and removes wood from the edge of a board to produce
a variety of shapes. For example, a concave bit will remove wood from the edge of a board and leave
behind a smooth convex, or rounded, surface. Blades that are shaped differently can create a variety
of designs on the edges of wood. Ogee bits cut variations on an S-shaped profile that are often used
to create decorative moldings that cover the joint between a wall and ceiling.
Correct Response: C. (Objective 0013) Routers are used to produce finished edges
and shapes and consist of a motor and a spinning blade or bit that projects below a fixed base plate.
The bit spins at very high speeds and removes wood from the edge of a board to produce a variety of
shapes. For example, a concave bit will remove wood from the edge of a board and leave behind a smooth
convex, or rounded, surface. Blades that are shaped differently can create a variety of designs on the
edges of wood. Ogee bits cut variations on an S-shaped profile that are often used to create decorative
moldings that cover the joint between a wall and ceiling.
Question 23
23. Apples can be stored for long periods of time in controlled environments that have low levels of
oxygen and high levels of carbon dioxide because these conditions:
- kill bacteria and insects.
- increase photosynthesis.
- inhibit the growth of molds.
- slow respiration.
Answer to question 23
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0014) Controlled atmosphere
(CA) storage of apples extends storage life for up to 9 to 12 months instead of the 2 to 3 months that
storage by refrigeration alone allows. In CA storage, oxygen is replaced by nitrogen, and oxygen levels
are kept to around 2% to 5% as opposed to approximately 20% in the atmosphere. CO2 levels
are kept at about the same level as oxygen, and humidity is kept around 90% to prevent water loss. The
low level of oxygen slows respiration and extends the storage life of the apples.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0014) Controlled atmosphere (CA) storage of apples
extends storage life for up to 9 to 12 months instead of the 2 to 3 months that storage by refrigeration
alone allows. In CA storage, oxygen is replaced by nitrogen, and oxygen levels are kept to around 2%
to 5% as opposed to approximately 20% in the atmosphere. Upper C upper O subscript 2 levels are kept
at about the same level as oxygen, and humidity is kept around 90% to prevent water loss. The low level
of oxygen slows respiration and extends the storage life of the apples.
Question 24
24. Eating undercooked eggs has historically been the most significant cause of infection with which
of the following genus of bacteria?
- Listeria
- Salmonella
- Clostridium
- Staphylococcus
Answer to question 24
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0014) Salmonella
bacteria can be found in a wide variety of foods, including meat, milk, and vegetables. However, the
most common causes of Salmonella poisoning are eating raw or undercooked eggs or undercooked
poultry products. Salmonella contamination usually occurs from contact with chicken feces but
some eggs may be infected inside the shell during formation of the egg in the hen's body. Vaccination
of flocks against Salmonella is one way to reduce incidence of infection. Other preventive
measures are thoroughly cooking the egg, and pasteurizing the egg in the shell before sale.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0014) Salmonella bacteria can be found
in a wide variety of foods, including meat, milk, and vegetables. However, the most common causes of
Salmonella poisoning are eating raw or undercooked eggs or undercooked poultry products. Salmonella
contamination usually occurs from contact with chicken feces but some eggs may be infected inside the
shell during formation of the egg in the hen's body. Vaccination of flocks against Salmonella
is one way to reduce incidence of infection. Other preventive measures are thoroughly cooking the egg,
and pasteurizing the egg in the shell before sale.
Question 25
25. Which of the following federal agencies has primary responsibility for inspection of food processing
facilities to ensure that they comply with laws governing safety in food products?
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
- United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Answer to question 25
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0014) A division of the USDA,
the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), is responsible for verifying that processing plants meet
regulatory requirements and take enforcement action when a plant fails to meet those requirements. Controversy
exists whether the FSIS is adequately funded to hire sufficient inspectors to carry out its core mission.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0014) A division of the USDA, the Food Safety and
Inspection Service (FSIS), is responsible for verifying that processing plants meet regulatory requirements
and take enforcement action when a plant fails to meet those requirements. Controversy exists whether
the FSIS is adequately funded to hire sufficient inspectors to carry out its core mission.
Question 26
26. In general, which of the following methods of preserving fruits and vegetables that are to be shipped
long distances is likely to retain the greatest amount of the nutrients originally present in the fresh
foodstuff?
- freezing
- packaging
- pickling
- canning
Answer to question 26
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: A. (Objective 0014) In general, frozen
fruits and vegetables retain more of their original nutrients because they are usually flash frozen
very soon after being picked. Freezing slows enzymatic activity that may cause nutrient breakdown in
the fruit or vegetable. Frozen fruits and vegetables will usually have more nutrients (although less
taste and texture) than their fresh counterparts that have been shipped long distances and have deteriorated
while en route and which will continue to deteriorate waiting to be sold.
Correct Response: A. (Objective 0014) In general, frozen fruits and vegetables
retain more of their original nutrients because they are usually flash frozen very soon after being
picked. Freezing slows enzymatic activity that may cause nutrient breakdown in the fruit or vegetable.
Frozen fruits and vegetables will usually have more nutrients (although less taste and texture) than
their fresh counterparts that have been shipped long distances and have deteriorated while en route
and which will continue to deteriorate waiting to be sold.
Question 27
27. The likelihood of contamination of hamburger with a potentially toxic strain of E. coli
is most increased by which of the following production practices?
- holding large numbers of cattle in crowded and unsanitary pens prior to slaughter
- using meat from cattle that have been fed animal by-products in their feed
- mixing fat and trimmings from a large number of carcasses in the grinding process
- using breeds of cattle for hamburger that are more susceptible to toxic forms of E. coli
Answer to question 27
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0014) Hamburger is usually
made by grinding the leftover trimmings from a large number of individual carcasses. This means that
if one animal is infected with toxic forms of the E. coli bacteria, the bacteria will be spread
through a large amount of ground meat. The grinding process itself means that the bacteria will be present
throughout the meat rather than just on its surface, where it is more susceptible to being killed by
the high heat of grilling or broiling. Recent studies have found that almost all hamburger is contaminated
with E. coli. Thoroughly cooking hamburgers is the best way to avoid ingesting live E. coli
bacteria.
Correct Response: C.
Question 28
28. An individual who specializes in the field of horticulture would be most likely to work at a job
managing a:
- state forest that allows multiple uses by different groups.
- large agribusiness that produces soybeans.
- florist shop that has an attached greenhouse.
- dairy farm that cuts and bales hay for winter fodder.
Answer to question 28
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0015) The field of horticulture
is generally considered to be one of the most diverse in all of agriculture, incorporating landscape
design and installation, intensive cultivation of fruits and vegetables, greenhouse and nursery management
and a large variety of other jobs. Horticulture is usually considered to be distinct from such fields
as large-scale commodity production agriculture (e.g., production of corn or soybeans), pasture management,
and forest management.
Correct Response: C. (Objective 0015) The field of horticulture is generally considered
to be one of the most diverse in all of agriculture, incorporating landscape design and installation,
intensive cultivation of fruits and vegetables, greenhouse and nursery management and a large variety
of other jobs. Horticulture is usually considered to be distinct from such fields as large-scale commodity
production agriculture (e.g., production of corn or soybeans), pasture management, and forest management.
Question 29
29. Which of the following is an example of an individual exceeding job expectations in a work situation?
- A salesperson at an agricultural supply store is polite and helpful to all customers and is knowledgeable
about the products offered at the store.
- A groom at a horse stable is adept at predicting the behavior of animals and communicating with each
animal and treats all of the animals firmly but with kindness.
- Strawberries picked by a berry picker rarely show bruising because the picker is careful and meticulous
about using the correct technique to pick the berries.
- A sales clerk at a large farm stand suggests several value-added products that the stand might offer
to attract customers and increase the stand's sales and profits.
Answer to question 29
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0015) The job description
for a sales clerk at a farm stand is not likely to include making suggestions to management about how
to run the stand, add products, or increase profits. Therefore, this example describes a person who
is exceeding his or her job expectations at work.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0015) The job description for a sales clerk at
a farm stand is not likely to include making suggestions to management about how to run the stand, add
products, or increase profits. Therefore, this example describes a person who is exceeding his or her
job expectations at work.
Question 30
30. When choosing a possible career path in an agricultural field, it would be most important for a
student to first:
- research current and future demand for various jobs in a variety of agricultural fields.
- determine which jobs in agricultural fields would provide the greatest opportunity for advancement.
- conduct a thorough self-assessment of his or her interests, skills, and knowledge.
- review requirements and skills needed for agricultural careers in a variety of fields.
Answer to question 30
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0015) This item requires
that the examinee demonstrate knowledge of principles and practices for career planning and development,
the role of career exploration in career planning, methods of career exploration (e.g., job shadowing,
internships, mentorships, apprenticeships, supervised agricultural experiences). There are a vast number
of possible careers in the field of agriculture. In planning a career, the student should first identify
where his or her interests lie. A thorough self-assessment allows the student to narrow the number of
career choices down to those in which he or she has an interest and the ability to acquire the requisite
knowledge and skills to succeed.
Correct Response: C. (Objective 0015) This item requires that the examinee demonstrate
knowledge of principles and practices for career planning and development, the role of career exploration
in career planning, methods of career exploration (e.g., job shadowing, internships, mentorships, apprenticeships,
supervised agricultural experiences). There are a vast number of possible careers in the field of agriculture.
In planning a career, the student should first identify where his or her interests lie. A thorough self-assessment
allows the student to narrow the number of career choices down to those in which he or she has an interest
and the ability to acquire the requisite knowledge and skills to succeed.
Question 31
31. A high school junior has been most interested in her agricultural courses that deal with greenhouse
and nursery employment. She decides that she would like to pursue a career path that leads to a position
as a greenhouse or nursery manager at some time in the future. Which of the following will most help
her develop the knowledge and skills necessary for her to successfully begin to realize her goals?
- seeking an after-school or summer job or apprenticeship as a greenhouse or nursery worker and learning
from on-the-job experiences that expose her to real problems and their solutions
- conducting independent reading of professional journals, online resources, and texts about the skills
necessary to become an effective greenhouse or nursery manager
- talking to local greenhouse and nursery managers about how they obtained their positions and the skills
that they find most necessary to do their jobs effectively
- asking a local greenhouse or nursery manager to allow her to job-shadow him or her for a few days so
that she can observe first-hand what skills she will need to develop for the job
Answer to question 31
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: A. (Objective 0015) At this point in this
student's desired career path, there is no real substitute for work-based learning. She may find that
the job is not what she expected and change her career expectations. Ideally, she should try to get
as much exposure as possible to a wide range of tasks that go into managing a greenhouse or nursery,
including growing and caring for plants, inventorying stock, selling to members of the public, and so
on.
Correct Response: A. (Objective 0015) At this point in this student's desired career
path, there is no real substitute for work-based learning. She may find that the job is not what she
expected and change her career expectations. Ideally, she should try to get as much exposure as possible
to a wide range of tasks that go into managing a greenhouse or nursery, including growing and caring
for plants, inventorying stock, selling to members of the public, and so on.
Question 32
32. Which of the following careers in agriculture would most require a student to possess certain artistic
abilities such as a sense of texture, balance, and proportion?
- greenhouse manager
- horticultural supervisor
- groundskeeper
- landscape designer
Answer to question 32
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0015) Many careers in agriculture
require some sense of artistic principles, but of the careers listed, a sense of texture, balance, and
proportion is likely to be most important in a landscape designer who must combine various plants, shrubs,
groundcovers, and materials such as mulches and garden fixtures (e.g., sundials, birdbaths) into an
aesthetically pleasing whole.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0015) Many careers in agriculture require some
sense of artistic principles, but of the careers listed, a sense of texture, balance, and proportion
is likely to be most important in a landscape designer who must combine various plants, shrubs, groundcovers,
and materials such as mulches and garden fixtures (e.g., sundials, birdbaths) into an aesthetically
pleasing whole.
Question 33
33. One important role of the advisor to a local FFA chapter is to:
- work with other faculty and administration members to ensure that the agriculture curriculum conforms
to FFA guidelines.
- determine the amount of dues that each student will pay to the chapter and ensure that dues are collected
promptly and spent wisely.
- provide all students with information about the opportunities offered by joining FFA.
- lead chapter meetings and resolve disputes about chapter activities that arise among students during
the course of chapter meetings.
Answer to question 33
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0016) FFA is an important
part of a complete agricultural education program, along with classroom and laboratory learning, and
work-based learning (e.g., supervised agricultural experiences). An important role of FFA is the development
of student leadership skills. Student officers set meeting agendas, run the meetings, apply parliamentary
procedure, collect dues, and so on. Thus, faculty advisors should not take an active role in the actual
running of the organization. Faculty advisors provide advice to students when needed, help students
prepare for state and national competitions, and act as sources of information about FFA and the opportunities
it provides both to students in the agricultural education program and to the student body as a whole.
Correct Response: C. (Objective 0016) FFA is an important part of a complete agricultural
education program, along with classroom and laboratory learning, and work-based learning (e.g., supervised
agricultural experiences). An important role of FFA is the development of student leadership skills.
Student officers set meeting agendas, run the meetings, apply parliamentary procedure, collect dues,
and so on. Thus, faculty advisors should not take an active role in the actual running of the organization.
Faculty advisors provide advice to students when needed, help students prepare for state and national
competitions, and act as sources of information about FFA and the opportunities it provides both to
students in the agricultural education program and to the student body as a whole.
Question 34
34. The advisor to a student chapter of FFA often finds it necessary to speak to small groups of parents,
school staff, members of the business community, and students about the nature of the FFA chapter, its
goals, and its needs. In which of the following situations would misunderstandings be most likely to
arise because the advisor's body language causes the content of the message to be misinterpreted?
- when the advisor fails to speak in short, simple sentences and uses jargon or other complex words
- when the advisor speaks to individuals or groups who are members of cultures that are different from
that of the advisor
- when the individuals or group members require the advisor to answer questions about the message
- when the message being conveyed is complex and requires a lengthy explanation to be understood
Answer to question 34
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0016) Body language, including
facial expression, is a very important part of oral communication. Cultural groups often differ significantly
in the meanings that are assigned to gestures or expressions. Different groups also differ significantly
in their preferences for personal space between the speaker and the listener. While miscommunication
can arise from all of the problems cited in the responses above, miscommunication due to misinterpretation
of body language is most likely between members of different cultures.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0016) Body language, including facial expression,
is a very important part of oral communication. Cultural groups often differ significantly in the meanings
that are assigned to gestures or expressions. Different groups also differ significantly in their preferences
for personal space between the speaker and the listener. While miscommunication can arise from all of
the problems cited in the responses above, miscommunication due to misinterpretation of body language
is most likely between members of different cultures.
Question 35
35. The national FFA recommends that each chapter include a community development component in its Program
of Activities (POA) primarily to:
- increase the influence of the national organization in the community.
- help students make contacts that may assist them in their future careers.
- help students develop their citizenship and communication skills.
- assist the chapter in raising funds to complete other parts of its POA.
Answer to question 35
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0016) The community development
component of a POA requires students to undertake projects that will benefit the community in which
they live. In undertaking such projects, students develop the confidence and skills to communicate with
community members and also develop citizenship skills, such as pride in their community, a desire to
help the community and its members, and familiarity with the roles and responsibilities of citizens
in a community.
Correct Response: C. (Objective 0016) The community development component of a
POA requires students to undertake projects that will benefit the community in which they live. In undertaking
such projects, students develop the confidence and skills to communicate with community members and
also develop citizenship skills, such as pride in their community, a desire to help the community and
its members, and familiarity with the roles and responsibilities of citizens in a community.
Question 36
36. A well-organized entrepreneurship supervised agricultural experience (SAE) should have which of
the following primary goals?
- teaching the student how to establish and run a small agricultural business
- providing the student with intensive exposure to a particular agricultural career
- exposing the student to a variety of possible agricultural careers
- helping the student learn to work with and communicate with others
Answer to question 36
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: A. (Objective 0016) An entrepreneurship
SAE usually involves asking the student to develop and run a small business. Such an SAE helps teach
the student the importance of record-keeping, financial responsibility, and other aspects of business.
Examples might be raising vegetables to sell at a farmers market, or starting a business mowing neighbors'
lawns.
Correct Response: A. (Objective 0016) An entrepreneurship SAE usually involves
asking the student to develop and run a small business. Such an SAE helps teach the student the importance
of record-keeping, financial responsibility, and other aspects of business. Examples might be raising
vegetables to sell at a farmers market, or starting a business mowing neighbors' lawns.
Question 37
37. A placement supervised agricultural experience (SAE) would emphasize which of the following aspects
of student learning?
- independent research
- classroom learning
- leadership development
- work-based learning
Answer to question 37
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0016) A placement supervised
agricultural experience is similar to an internship in that it involves placing the student in an agriculture,
food, or natural resources-related business to provide a hands-on, learn-by-doing, work-based learning
environment. Examples might include working on a farm or nursery, a farm supply store, or a nonprofit
environmental organization.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0016) A placement supervised agricultural experience
is similar to an internship in that it involves placing the student in an agriculture, food, or natural
resources-related business to provide a hands-on, learn-by-doing, work-based learning environment. Examples
might include working on a farm or nursery, a farm supply store, or a nonprofit environmental organization.
Question 38
38. Before students read a new chapter in their textbook, an agricultural education teacher writes three
to four statements on the board related to key concepts addressed in the chapter (e.g., adding organic
matter almost always improves the productive capacity of soil, particle size helps determine soil drainage
and fertility). The teacher gives students ten minutes to discuss the statements with a partner and
try to think of evidence that would support each statement. Afterward, partners share their ideas in
a whole-class discussion. These prereading activities help promote students' comprehension of the chapter
primarily in which of the following ways?
- by guiding the students to adjust their reading rate to match the difficulty level of the text
- by providing the students with a strategy for distinguishing facts from opinions in the text
- by showing the students how to use visualization to construct meaning as they read the text
- by activating and building the students' background knowledge related to the text
Answer to question 38
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: D. (Objective 0017) Background knowledge
about a topic is a key indicator of how well a student will learn new information related to that topic
and comprehend texts about the topic. The activity described provides students with opportunities to
discuss key concepts addressed in the chapter prior to reading, first with a partner and then in a whole-class
discussion, thus activating their prior knowledge about the concepts and building new background knowledge
related to those concepts.
Correct Response: D. (Objective 0017) Background knowledge about a topic is a key
indicator of how well a student will learn new information related to that topic and comprehend texts
about the topic. The activity described provides students with opportunities to discuss key concepts
addressed in the chapter prior to reading, first with a partner and then in a whole-class discussion,
thus activating their prior knowledge about the concepts and building new background knowledge related
to those concepts.
Question 39
39. Which of the following strategies would be most effective for an agricultural educator to use to
scaffold students' reading comprehension of an academic text by promoting their awareness of the text's
organizational structure?
- providing the students with explicit instruction in morphemic analysis skills using key words from
the text
- helping the students identify and analyze the transition words used to connect ideas in the text
- encouraging the students to scan the text for unfamiliar vocabulary words before reading
- showing the students how to use a semantic web to compare and classify content words used in the text
Answer to question 39
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: B. (Objective 0017) Writers use various
organizational text structures to help clarify the relationships between ideas in a text and to support
the reader's recognition of the writer's argument or purpose. Common text structures for informational
and expository texts include sequence or chronological order, comparison and contrast, and definition
and example. A key element that helps signal most text structures is the use of transition words and
phrases that are associated with a particular organizational structure. For example, a sequential or
chronological text structure might use transitions such as first, meanwhile, and next,
while a comparison/contrast text structure might use transitions such as although, on the other hand,
and instead of.
Correct Response: B. (Objective 0017) Writers use various organizational text structures
to help clarify the relationships between ideas in a text and to support the reader's recognition of
the writer's argument or purpose. Common text structures for informational and expository texts include
sequence or chronological order, comparison and contrast, and definition and example. A key element
that helps signal most text structures is the use of transition words and phrases that are associated
with a particular organizational structure. For example, a sequential or chronological text structure
might use transitions such as first, meanwhile, and next, while a comparison/contrast
text structure might use transitions such as although, on the other hand, and instead of.
Question 40
40. An agriculture teacher regularly incorporates vocabulary self-awareness charts into each unit of
study. At the beginning of a unit, the teacher has individual students read a list of key vocabulary
words from the unit and rate each word from 1 to 4. A rating of 1 means a student knows the word well
and can demonstrate understanding of the word by providing both a definition and an example of the word
used in context. A rating of 2 means the student has some knowledge of the word and can produce either
a definition or an example, but not both. A rating of 3 means the student has heard of the word, but
is not sure what it means or how to use it. A rating of 4 means the student has never encountered the
word before (or at least cannot recall having encountered it). Throughout the unit, the students continually
update their word ratings as they add definitions and examples to their chart. The teacher's approach
to instruction promotes students' knowledge of discipline-specific vocabulary primarily by developing
the students':
- knowledge of morphology and etymology.
- orthographic knowledge and decoding skills.
- metacognitive skills and word consciousness.
- understanding of semantics and syntax.
Answer to question 40
- Answer Enter to expand or collapse answer. Answer expanded
- Correct Response: C. (Objective 0017) Metacognition is the
awareness of how one is thinking and learning as one works on a task. Research on what effective readers
do indicates that metacognition plays an important role in reading comprehension. Research on vocabulary
development indicates that metacognition plays an important role here as well. Word awareness, or word
consciousness, contributes to students' motivation to learn new words and general interest in vocabulary
development.
Correct Response: C. (Objective 0017) Metacognition is the awareness of how one
is thinking and learning as one works on a task. Research on what effective readers do indicates that
metacognition plays an important role in reading comprehension. Research on vocabulary development indicates
that metacognition plays an important role here as well. Word awareness, or word consciousness, contributes
to students' motivation to learn new words and general interest in vocabulary development.