A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

Twelfth Grade Items

Science General Knowledge

Electrical energy is used to power a lamp. Is the amount of light energy produced more than, less than, or the same as the amount of electrical energy used?

The amount of light energy produced is

____ more than
____ less than (check one)
____ the same as

the amount of electrical energy used.

Give a reason to support your answer.

Because the lamp heats up, some of the electrical energy is used for this. The rest of the energy produces light.

Physical Science
International Average Percent Correct: 21%; Sweden, 31%; Switzerland, 27%; Canada, 23%; France, 19%; United States, 11%.

Source: IEA Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), 1995-96

Mathematics

Experts say that 25% of all serious bicycle accidents involve head injuries and that, of all head injuries, 80% are fatal.

What percentage of all serious bicycle accidents involve fatal head injuries?

  1. 16%
  2. 20%
  3. 55%
  4. 105%

Percentages: Correct Answer: B
International Average Percent Correct: 64%; Netherlands, 83%; Sweden, 78%; Canada, 74%; Switzerland, 67%; United States, 57%.

Source: IEA Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), 1994-95


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Last Updated -- June 9, 1998, (pjk)