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NCEA L1 Social Studies study materials
NCEA L1 Social Studies study resources

NCEA L1 Social Studies practice questions

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Question 1Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Under the Treaty of Waitangi, which article guarantees Māori the same rights as British subjects?

  1. Article Four
  2. Article One
  3. Article Two
  4. Article Three Correct answer.

Explanation

Article Three extends to Māori the same rights and privileges as British subjects, establishing the principle of equal citizenship. Article One concerns sovereignty and Article Two concerns rangatiratanga over taonga.

Question 2Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which body was established by the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975 to investigate Māori claims against the Crown?

  1. The Māori Land Court
  2. The Human Rights Commission
  3. The Environment Court
  4. The Waitangi Tribunal Correct answer.

Explanation

The Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975 created the Waitangi Tribunal to inquire into claims that the Crown breached Treaty principles. Its powers were later extended in 1985 to cover historical claims back to 1840.

Question 3Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which institution is New Zealand's supreme law-making body, able to pass legislation on any subject?

  1. The House of Representatives Correct answer.
  2. The Reserve Bank
  3. The Executive Council
  4. The Court of Appeal

Explanation

Parliament, made up of the House of Representatives and the Sovereign, holds supreme law-making authority in New Zealand. It can legislate on any matter subject to the constraints of the entrenched provisions and the general law.

Question 4Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A bill has passed its third reading in the House. What is the next formal step before it becomes an Act?

  1. It is put to a binding public referendum
  2. It is reviewed by the Supreme Court
  3. It receives the Royal Assent from the Governor-General Correct answer.
  4. It is sent to a select committee for public submissions

Explanation

After the third reading a bill proceeds to Royal Assent, where the Governor-General signs it on behalf of the Sovereign. Only then does it become an Act of Parliament and enter into force.

Question 5Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Under New Zealand's Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) system, what does the party vote primarily determine?

  1. The share of seats each party receives in Parliament Correct answer.
  2. Which local candidate wins the electorate seat
  3. The order of bills debated in the House
  4. The number of ministers in Cabinet

Explanation

The party vote determines each party's overall share of the 120 seats, subject to the five percent threshold or winning an electorate. The electorate vote decides the local MP.

Question 6Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best describes the role of a select committee in the New Zealand Parliament?

  1. It appoints the Governor-General
  2. It drafts the government's annual budget
  3. It scrutinises bills and hears public submissions Correct answer.
  4. It decides the outcome of general elections

Explanation

Select committees are small groups of MPs who examine bills in detail, hear submissions from the public, and report back to the House with recommended changes. They provide a key opportunity for public participation.

Question 7Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A group of residents wants to stop a proposed landfill near their suburb. Which action is the most direct way for them to influence the resource consent decision?

  1. Ask the Waitangi Tribunal to hear the case
  2. Make a submission to the consent authority during the hearing Correct answer.
  3. Vote the local council out at the next election
  4. Write to the Governor-General requesting a pardon

Explanation

Resource consent decisions are made under the Resource Management Act, and the public can make submissions and be heard at a hearing. This is the direct statutory avenue for influencing the decision.

Question 8Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which statement best describes the concept of 'rangatiratanga' as used in Article Two of the Treaty of Waitangi?

  1. Māori chiefly authority and control over their lands and taonga Correct answer.
  2. The Crown's right to govern all New Zealanders
  3. The power of courts to strike down legislation
  4. The right of all citizens to vote in general elections

Explanation

Rangatiratanga refers to chiefly authority and self-determination, particularly over lands, villages, and taonga. Article Two guarantees Māori continued rangatiratanga while the Crown gains kāwanatanga (governance).

Question 9Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

What is the main purpose of the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990?

  1. To set the date of general elections
  2. To establish the Waitangi Tribunal
  3. To entrench a written constitution above Parliament
  4. To affirm fundamental rights and freedoms protected against state action Correct answer.

Explanation

The Bill of Rights Act affirms rights such as freedom of expression and the right to a fair trial, and requires courts to interpret legislation consistently with those rights. It does not entrench a supreme constitution.

Question 10Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of these is an example of a 'social institution' that shapes behaviour in New Zealand society?

  1. The Southern Alps
  2. The weather system
  3. The lunar cycle
  4. The family unit Correct answer.

Explanation

Social institutions are established patterns of social organisation such as the family, education, religion, and government that shape norms and behaviour. The family is a core social institution.

Question 11Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

According to the New Zealand Curriculum, what does 'cultural identity' refer to in a social studies context?

  1. A person's genetic ancestry alone
  2. A person's physical appearance
  3. The amount of income a person earns
  4. The shared values, language, and practices through which people define themselves Correct answer.

Explanation

Cultural identity involves the shared values, beliefs, language, and practices through which people understand who they are and where they belong. It is broader than ancestry or appearance.

Question 12Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best describes a 'social movement'?

  1. A government department that administers policy
  2. An organised group of people acting to promote or resist social change Correct answer.
  3. A court that hears criminal cases
  4. A company that trades on the share market

Explanation

A social movement is an organised, sustained collective effort to promote or resist change in society, such as the suffrage or environmental movements. It is distinct from formal government institutions.

Question 13Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Why is the principle of 'separation of powers' important in a democracy?

  1. It removes the need for elections
  2. It guarantees that Parliament will always agree with the courts
  3. It allows the Prime Minister to control the courts
  4. It prevents any one branch of government from holding unchecked power Correct answer.

Explanation

Separation of powers divides authority between the legislature, executive, and judiciary so that no single branch can exercise unchecked power. This protects against tyranny and helps uphold the rule of law.

Question 14Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which statement best explains why the Treaty of Waitangi has been described as having 'principles' rather than only literal terms?

  1. Because courts and the Waitangi Tribunal have interpreted its broad wording to apply to modern circumstances Correct answer.
  2. Because the Treaty automatically overrides all statutes
  3. Because the Treaty text was written entirely in English
  4. Because the Treaty was never signed by any Māori chiefs

Explanation

The Treaty's wording is broad and was drafted in two languages, so courts and the Waitangi Tribunal have developed principles such as partnership and active protection. These principles guide how the Treaty applies to contemporary issues.

Question 15Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A council proposes to build a new motorway through land of cultural significance to local iwi. Which process best reflects the Treaty principle of partnership?

  1. The council ignores iwi concerns because the land is Crown-owned
  2. The council consults and works with iwi throughout the decision-making process Correct answer.
  3. The council makes the decision alone and informs iwi afterwards
  4. The council asks iwi to fund the entire project

Explanation

Partnership requires the Crown to consult and work in good faith with Māori on matters affecting them. Genuine engagement throughout the process reflects this principle better than informing iwi after the fact.

Question 16Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following is an example of a 'universal' human right affirmed in international agreements?

  1. The right to own a specific brand of car
  2. The right to a particular job
  3. The right to live in a particular suburb
  4. The right to freedom from torture Correct answer.

Explanation

Universal human rights, such as freedom from torture, apply to all people regardless of nationality or status. They are affirmed in instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Question 17Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

What does the term 'suffrage' mean in the context of New Zealand history?

  1. The right to own land
  2. The right to free education
  3. The right to a fair trial
  4. The right to vote in elections Correct answer.

Explanation

Suffrage refers to the right to vote. New Zealand became the first self-governing country to grant women the vote in 1893, a landmark in the suffrage movement.

Question 18Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best describes the function of local government in New Zealand?

  1. It appoints judges to the High Court
  2. It makes laws on matters of national defence
  3. It provides local services and represents community interests within its region or district Correct answer.
  4. It controls the national currency

Explanation

Local authorities such as city and district councils provide services like water, roads, and parks, and represent their communities under the Local Government Act. National defence and currency are central government responsibilities.

Question 19Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best explains the concept of 'sustainable development'?

  1. Preventing any economic growth in a region
  2. Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs Correct answer.
  3. Using all available resources as quickly as possible
  4. Maximising profit for current shareholders

Explanation

Sustainable development balances economic, social, and environmental needs so that future generations are not disadvantaged. It is a central concept in resource management and environmental policy.

Question 20Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A community group argues that a new housing development will destroy a local wetland. Which concept best describes the tension in this situation?

  1. Separation of powers
  2. Economic growth versus environmental protection Correct answer.
  3. Rangatiratanga versus kāwanatanga
  4. Supply and demand

Explanation

The situation sets the need for housing and economic development against the value of protecting an ecosystem. This is a classic sustainability trade-off between economic growth and environmental protection.

Question 21Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following is the best example of an individual exercising 'active citizenship'?

  1. Watching the news without taking any action
  2. Organising a petition and presenting it to Parliament Correct answer.
  3. Avoiding all community activities
  4. Refusing to vote in a general election

Explanation

Active citizenship involves taking deliberate action to influence or improve society, such as organising a petition and presenting it to Parliament. It goes beyond passive observation.

Question 22Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best describes the role of the media in a democracy?

  1. To make laws on behalf of Parliament
  2. To set official interest rates
  3. To inform the public and hold those in power accountable Correct answer.
  4. To appoint members of the judiciary

Explanation

A free media informs citizens, scrutinises decision-makers, and provides a forum for debate, which supports informed voting and accountability. It does not make laws or appoint officials.

Question 23Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

What is the main purpose of the Resource Management Act 1991?

  1. To establish the New Zealand Parliament
  2. To regulate the sale of alcohol
  3. To promote the sustainable management of natural and physical resources Correct answer.
  4. To set the minimum wage

Explanation

The Resource Management Act 1991 promotes the sustainable management of natural and physical resources, guiding decisions about land use, water, and the environment. It is a key statute for environmental planning.

Question 24Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following statements about the Treaty of Waitangi settlement process is accurate?

  1. Settlements aim to resolve historical grievances and often include an apology, cultural redress, and financial redress Correct answer.
  2. Settlements are decided solely by the Waitangi Tribunal without Crown involvement
  3. Settlements remove the Crown's obligation to honour the Treaty
  4. Settlements return all land in New Zealand to Māori ownership

Explanation

Treaty settlements negotiated between iwi and the Crown typically include a Crown apology, cultural redress, and financial or commercial redress. They aim to resolve historical claims and restore the relationship between the parties.

Question 25Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A candidate argues that a law passed by Parliament is unfair. Which statement best reflects the constitutional position in New Zealand?

  1. Courts can always strike down any Act of Parliament they consider unfair
  2. The Waitangi Tribunal can overturn any Act of Parliament
  3. The Governor-General can veto any Act at will
  4. Parliament is supreme, so courts cannot generally invalidate an Act, though they interpret it consistently with rights Correct answer.

Explanation

Parliamentary supremacy means courts cannot generally strike down legislation, although they interpret statutes consistently with the Bill of Rights where possible. The Governor-General's assent is a formal step, not a political veto.

Question 26Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

In the New Zealand Curriculum social studies context, what does the term 'perspective' refer to when students examine a social issue?

  1. The legal rules that Parliament passes to govern behaviour
  2. The statistical data collected about a population during a census
  3. The physical location where a community meeting is held
  4. The set of values, beliefs and experiences through which a person or group views an issue Correct answer.

Explanation

In social studies, a perspective is the viewpoint shaped by a person's or group's values, beliefs, culture and experiences. Recognising different perspectives helps students understand why people disagree on social issues. It is a way of seeing, not a set of statistics, laws or places.

Question 27Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A class is investigating how a new bypass road might affect a town. Which approach best shows students taking a 'social inquiry' approach?

  1. Copying the council's press release into their report without checking it
  2. Asking a focused question, gathering evidence from several sources, and considering different viewpoints before drawing a conclusion Correct answer.
  3. Surveying only their own classmates and treating the results as the whole town's view
  4. Choosing the answer they prefer and finding one source that supports it

Explanation

Social inquiry involves framing a question, gathering and evaluating evidence, and weighing multiple perspectives before reaching an informed conclusion. This process is central to social studies at Level 1. The other options skip checking or represent only one narrow group.

Question 28Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which statement best explains the idea of 'citizenship' as it is used in social studies?

  1. The membership of a person in a political community, carrying both rights and responsibilities Correct answer.
  2. The process by which a bill becomes an Act of Parliament
  3. The amount of tax a person pays to the government each year
  4. The right of a person to own private property

Explanation

Citizenship describes belonging to a political community, which brings entitlements such as voting alongside duties such as obeying the law and participating in public life. It is broader than any single legal or economic act. The other options describe only one narrow aspect of government or property.

Question 29Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A student reads that a group of workers formed a union to negotiate better pay and conditions. Which concept does this example best illustrate?

  1. Cultural diffusion
  2. Urbanisation
  3. Globalisation
  4. Collective action Correct answer.

Explanation

Collective action occurs when people join together to pursue a shared goal, such as a union negotiating on behalf of its members. The other concepts describe the spread of culture, the growth of global connections, or the growth of cities, none of which match this example.

Question 30Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best describes 'social inequality'?

  1. Unequal access to resources, opportunities and outcomes among different groups in a society Correct answer.
  2. The process by which a society adopts new technology
  3. The total number of people living in a country
  4. The way a government collects and spends taxes

Explanation

Social inequality refers to differences between groups in access to resources, opportunities and outcomes such as income, education and health. It is about unequal distribution, not population size, technology adoption or budgeting. Understanding inequality helps explain social tensions and policy debates.

Question 31Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A community notices that a local river is polluted and organises a public meeting, a petition and a submission to the regional council. Which concept best describes what the community is doing?

  1. Practising economic globalisation
  2. Exercising collective action to influence decision-making Correct answer.
  3. Carrying out a census
  4. Engaging in cultural exchange

Explanation

The community is taking coordinated action to influence a public decision, which is a clear example of collective action in a democratic setting. The other options describe cultural, economic or statistical activities that do not match the events. Collective action is a key concept for understanding how groups seek change.

Question 32Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which statement best explains why 'values' matter in social decision-making?

  1. Values are only relevant to personal hobbies and have no role in public decisions
  2. Values are the same for every person in a society
  3. Values are the beliefs people hold about what is important and right, and they shape which options people prefer Correct answer.
  4. Values are laws that Parliament has formally enacted

Explanation

Values are beliefs about what matters and what is right or desirable, and they influence how individuals and groups judge options in public decisions. They are not laws, and they differ between people and cultures. Recognising values helps explain disagreement in social issues.

Question 33Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best describes the purpose of the New Zealand Parliament's general debate?

  1. To manage the day-to-day operations of local councils
  2. To pass final judgment in criminal trials
  3. To appoint the Governor-General
  4. To allow members to raise issues of concern and debate matters of public importance Correct answer.

Explanation

The general debate gives members an opportunity to speak on matters of public importance and raise issues they consider significant. Parliament does not conduct criminal trials, and it does not manage local councils. The Governor-General is appointed by the Sovereign on the advice of the Prime Minister, not by the general debate.

Question 34Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A bill has passed its third reading in the House of Representatives. What is the next step before it becomes an Act?

  1. It receives the Royal Assent from the Governor-General Correct answer.
  2. It is sent back to a select committee for a second public submission round
  3. It is put to a national referendum
  4. It is reviewed by the High Court

Explanation

After a bill passes its third reading it goes to the Governor-General for Royal Assent, and it then becomes an Act. Select committee stages occur earlier in the process, and referendums are not a standard step. The courts do not approve legislation before it becomes law.

Question 35Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which statement best describes the role of the Official Information Act 1982 in a democracy?

  1. It sets the maximum number of hours people may work each week
  2. It determines how much tax companies must pay
  3. It allows people to request information held by government agencies, supporting transparency and accountability Correct answer.
  4. It establishes the rules for local body elections

Explanation

The Official Information Act gives people a right to request information held by government agencies, with limited grounds for withholding it. This supports transparency and lets the public hold the government accountable. Employment hours, local elections and company tax are governed by other laws.

Question 36Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A hapū is negotiating with a council over the management of a local reserve. Which principle from the Treaty of Waitangi is most directly relevant to how the council should involve the hapū?

  1. Individualism, meaning only individual property owners should be heard
  2. Majoritarianism, meaning the largest group always decides
  3. Sovereignty, meaning the Crown may act without consultation
  4. Partnership, meaning the Crown and Māori should work together in good faith Correct answer.

Explanation

The Treaty principles include partnership, which requires the Crown and Māori to act in good faith and work together on matters affecting Māori interests. Consultation with the hapū reflects this principle. The other options describe ideas that would undermine good-faith partnership.

Question 37Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best describes the function of the Waitangi Tribunal?

  1. It inquires into claims that the Crown has breached the Treaty of Waitangi and makes recommendations Correct answer.
  2. It drafts bills for introduction into Parliament
  3. It runs elections for local councils
  4. It hears criminal appeals from the District Court

Explanation

The Waitangi Tribunal is a permanent commission of inquiry that investigates claims that the Crown has acted inconsistently with the Treaty principles and reports its findings and recommendations. It does not hear criminal appeals, draft bills or run local elections, which belong to other institutions.

Question 38Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A student argues that because a law was passed by Parliament, it must be just. Which response best reflects social studies thinking about law and justice?

  1. A law is always just because Parliament represents the people
  2. A law is only valid if every citizen personally agrees with it
  3. A law cannot be changed once it has been passed
  4. A law can be legally valid yet still be criticised as unjust, so people may campaign to change it through democratic processes Correct answer.

Explanation

Social studies distinguishes between legality and justice: a law may be validly enacted but still be considered unfair, and citizens can seek change through voting, submissions, protest and other democratic means. Parliament does not guarantee justice in every case, and laws can be amended or repealed.

Question 39Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best explains why 'rule of law' is important in a democracy?

  1. It means the government can change the law whenever it wishes
  2. It means everyone, including government, is subject to the law and no one is above it Correct answer.
  3. It means only judges must follow the law
  4. It means the law applies only to citizens who vote

Explanation

The rule of law holds that everyone, including those in government, is bound by the law and accountable under it. This constrains arbitrary power and protects rights. It does not mean government can act freely, nor that the law applies only to some people.

Question 40Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

In social studies, what does 'cultural diversity' refer to?

  1. The rules for becoming a New Zealand citizen
  2. The existence of many different cultures within a society Correct answer.
  3. The process by which a single culture replaces all others
  4. The number of languages spoken by one family

Explanation

Cultural diversity describes the presence of multiple cultures, with their own languages, values and practices, within a society. It is not about one culture replacing others, nor a single family's language use, nor citizenship rules. Recognising diversity helps explain how societies accommodate difference.

Question 41Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A student researching a local issue finds a social media post with no author, no date and no sources. What is the best response?

  1. Treat the post cautiously and seek corroboration from reliable, attributable sources Correct answer.
  2. Reject all information found online as automatically false
  3. Copy the post as evidence without checking
  4. Assume the post is accurate because it has many likes

Explanation

Evaluating sources involves checking authorship, date and evidence, and seeking corroboration from reliable sources. Popularity does not establish accuracy, and rejecting all online information is equally uncritical. This skill is central to social inquiry.

Question 42Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following describes an 'interest group'?

  1. A government department that delivers public services
  2. An organised group that seeks to influence public policy on a particular issue Correct answer.
  3. A group of MPs who form the government after an election
  4. A court that hears constitutional cases

Explanation

An interest group organises around a shared concern and tries to influence policy, for example through submissions, lobbying or campaigns. It is not the governing party, a court or a government department. Interest groups are part of civil society.

Question 43Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A local council is deciding whether to fund a new community centre. Which action best reflects a resident exercising their democratic rights?

  1. Ignoring the consultation and complaining after the decision is made
  2. Asking a friend to decide for them
  3. Making a submission during the council's public consultation and speaking at a hearing Correct answer.
  4. Paying rates without engaging with the process

Explanation

Public consultation and hearings are formal opportunities for residents to present their views and evidence to decision-makers. Making a submission is a direct way to participate in local democracy. The other options avoid participation or delegate the decision.

Question 44Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which statement best describes the relationship between 'rights' and 'responsibilities' in a democratic society?

  1. Responsibilities apply only to government officials
  2. Rights and responsibilities are unrelated ideas
  3. Rights are matched by responsibilities to respect the rights of others and the common good Correct answer.
  4. Rights exist only when a person accepts no responsibilities

Explanation

In a democracy, rights such as freedom of expression are exercised alongside responsibilities to respect others' rights and the common good. Ignoring responsibilities can harm others and may be limited by law. The two ideas are closely connected, not unrelated.

Question 45Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A government proposes a policy that would restrict a minority group's access to housing. Which concept best helps a student analyse this proposal?

  1. Supply and demand
  2. Cultural diffusion
  3. Human rights and the principle of non-discrimination Correct answer.
  4. Urbanisation

Explanation

Restricting one group's access to housing raises questions of human rights and non-discrimination, which are central social studies concepts. The other options describe economic or demographic processes that do not capture the fairness issue. Applying a rights lens helps evaluate whether a policy is just.

Question 46Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best describes how a bill becomes law in New Zealand?

  1. It is drafted by the courts and then enforced by Parliament
  2. It is decided by a public referendum before being written
  3. It is approved by the Governor-General and then debated in Parliament
  4. It is introduced, considered by a select committee, debated through readings, and then receives Royal Assent Correct answer.

Explanation

A bill is introduced to the House, usually referred to a select committee for public submissions, debated at each reading, and finally given Royal Assent to become an Act. The other options reverse or confuse the roles of Parliament, the Governor-General and the courts.

Question 47Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

What is the main purpose of a select committee's public submission process?

  1. To appoint judges to the courts
  2. To decide the outcome of general elections
  3. To elect the Speaker of the House
  4. To gather views and evidence from the public on a bill before members recommend changes Correct answer.

Explanation

Select committees invite public submissions so they can hear a range of views and evidence on a bill and then recommend amendments to the House. They do not elect the Speaker, run elections or appoint judges. This process is a key way citizens influence legislation.

Question 48Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

A student claims that globalisation only brings benefits. Which response best reflects critical social studies analysis?

  1. Globalisation brings both benefits and costs, and these are distributed unevenly among groups Correct answer.
  2. Globalisation is the same as urbanisation
  3. Globalisation only affects wealthy countries
  4. Globalisation has no effect on local cultures

Explanation

Critical analysis recognises that globalisation can bring economic and cultural benefits while also creating costs such as job displacement or pressure on local cultures, and that these effects are unevenly distributed. It is not the same as urbanisation, and it affects cultures and countries in complex ways.

Question 49Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following best explains why the Treaty of Waitangi is considered a founding document of New Zealand?

  1. It records an agreement between Māori rangatira and the Crown that shaped the basis of government and relationships in New Zealand Correct answer.
  2. It sets out the full text of the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act
  3. It lists all the laws that apply in New Zealand
  4. It established the first New Zealand Parliament

Explanation

The Treaty records an agreement between Māori chiefs and the Crown and is treated as a founding document that shapes constitutional relationships and government obligations. It is not a bill of rights, did not create Parliament, and is not a list of laws. Its principles continue to guide policy and law.

Question 50Social Studies (Level 1 achievement standards, Social Sciences | New Zealand Curriculum)

Which of the following is the best example of 'social action' by a group of young people concerned about climate change?

  1. Discussing the issue only with close friends
  2. Organising a school strike and presenting a submission to Parliament Correct answer.
  3. Waiting for adults to solve the problem
  4. Reading a textbook chapter about climate change

Explanation

Social action involves organised, purposeful activity aimed at influencing change, such as a school strike combined with a formal submission. Reading, private discussion or waiting passively do not constitute action directed at decision-makers. Social action is a key way citizens participate.