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Section 4: Sample Selected-Response Questions
Health EC–12 (157)

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This section presents some sample exam questions for you to review as part of your preparation for the exam. To demonstrate how each competency may be assessed, sample questions are accompanied by the competency that they measure. While studying, you may wish to read the competency before and after you consider each sample question. Please note that the competency statements do not appear on the actual exam.

For each sample exam question, there is a correct answer and a rationale for each answer option. The sample questions are included to illustrate the formats and types of questions you will see on the exam; however, your performance on the sample questions should not be viewed as a predictor of your performance on the actual exam.

Domain I—Personal Health

Competency 001—The teacher understands human body systems and the processes of human growth and development.

1. Women who consume alcohol while pregnant put the developing fetus at greatest risk for which of the following?

  1. Diabetes
  2. Stillbirth
  3. Low birth weight
  4. Herpes simplex
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Option B is correct because stillbirth is one of the conditions most commonly associated with alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Option A is incorrect because diabetes is more commonly transferred to the child if the mother has diabetes as well. Option C is incorrect because low birth weight is normally associated with smoking during pregnancy. Option D is incorrect because herpes simplex could be passed from mother to baby during childbirth if the mother was infected and was experiencing an outbreak at the time of giving birth.

2. Which of the following body systems work most closely together to provide oxygen to all of the body’s cells?

  1. Respiratory and circulatory
  2. Lymphatic and respiratory
  3. Circulatory and nervous
  4. Muscular and circulatory
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Option A is correct because the respiratory system brings oxygen into the body, and the circulatory system delivers oxygen to all body cells. Option B is incorrect because the lymphatic system is responsible for filtering blood and contributes to the immune system. Option C is incorrect because the nervous system works indirectly with the respiratory and circulatory systems. Option D is incorrect because the muscular system works indirectly with the respiratory and circulatory systems.

3. By watching for signs of emotional stress in adolescent students, the teacher demonstrates an understanding of which of the following principles?

  1. Adolescents’ sleep can be affected, which makes them more alert in the early morning.
  2. Adolescents’ brains are fully developed by 18 years of age.
  3. Adolescents tend to vindictively make poor choices and experience conflict with their parents and others, such as school staff.
  4. Adolescents may encounter a new and unfamiliar set of social experiences as their bodies go through various changes.
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Option D is correct because adolescents may experience an increase or decrease in popularity within their peer group due to the obvious changes happening to their bodies. Option A is incorrect because the lack of sleep causes adolescents to be more alert during the evening. Option B is incorrect because the human brain does not fully develop until one is in his or her 20s. Option C is incorrect because adolescents do not vindictively make poor choices; poor choices are a result of hormonal changes and an immature brain.

Competency 002—The teacher understands nutrition, exercise and physical fitness and their role in maintaining and enhancing health.

Below are the ingredient lists for two different yogurts.

Yogurt #1 – INGREDIENTS: CULTURED PASTEURIZED GRADE A NONFAT MILK, WHEY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE, PECTIN, CARRAGEENAN

Yogurt #2 – INGREDIENTS: CULTURED GRADE A REDUCED-FAT MILK, APPLES, HIGH-FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP, CINNAMON, NUTMEG, NATURAL FLAVORS, PECTIN, LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS

4. Ray has diabetes and needs to watch his sugar intake. The inclusion of which of the following ingredients in yogurt #2 makes yogurt #1 a better choice for Ray?

  1. Apples
  2. Nutmeg
  3. Lactobacillus acidophilus
  4. High-fructose corn syrup
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Option D is correct because high-fructose corn syrup is an added sugar, so it can negatively affect those with diabetes. Option A is incorrect because apples contain fructose, a natural sugar, which helps provide essential nutrients to the body and is a better form of sugar for those with diabetes. Option B is incorrect because nutmeg is a spice and does not have negative effects on those with diabetes. Option C is incorrect because L. acidophilus is a bacterium that aids digestive health and does not have negative effects on those with diabetes.

5. Which of the following is the safest and most appropriate approach to losing weight?

  1. Using diet pills
  2. Eating sensibly and exercising adequately
  3. Undergoing stomach surgery
  4. Following a very low-calorie diet
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Option B is correct because eating a balanced diet and exercising is a natural way to lose weight. Option A is incorrect because diet pills are unregulated by the Food and Drug Administration and should be considered unhealthy. Option C is incorrect because weight-loss surgery should only be used to lose weight if all else has failed and if it is performed by a reputable surgeon. Option D is incorrect because low-calorie diets can be unhealthy.

6. Which of the following components of fitness is assessed using a nonperformance test?

  1. Flexibility
  2. Aerobic capacity
  3. Muscular strength
  4. Body composition
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Option D is correct because body composition can be determined using BMI, which is based on a person’s height and weight and is found either by using skin calipers or by measuring waist circumference; neither of these methods requires the person being tested to perform any type of exercise or activity. Option A is incorrect because this component is assessed with the sit-and-reach test. Option B is incorrect because in order to assess cardiovascular fitness, the person must perform some form of a running test, such as the one-mile run, pacer test, etc. Option C is incorrect because in order to assess muscular strength, the person must perform exercises such as push-ups, in which the person’s workload is equal to the body weight.

7. Penicillin is used to treat which of the following?

  1. Pneumonia
  2. Genital herpes
  3. Trichinosis
  4. Athlete’s foot
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Option A is correct because penicillin is an antibiotic that can treat bacterial pneumonia. Option B is incorrect because genital herpes is a virus and cannot be treated with an antibiotic. Option C is incorrect because trichinosis is cause by a parasite and cannot be treated with an antibiotic. Option D is incorrect because athlete's foot is caused by a fungus and cannot be treated by an antibiotic.

Competency 003—The teacher understands how diseases and disorders affect health.

8. According to recent research, a risk factor associated with the onset of Alzheimer’s disease is

  1. lack of exercise.
  2. consumption of green, leafy vegetables.
  3. retirement before age 50.
  4. weight-reduction surgery.
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Option A is correct because a lack of exercise has been identified as a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Research suggests that strategies for overall healthy aging, including exercising both the mind and body, keep the brain healthy and may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because consuming green, leafy vegetables, retiring before age 50, and having weight-reduction surgery are not risk factors for Alzheimer’s.

9. Students who are economically disadvantaged often struggle in school. If the situation of these students is considered from the perspective of Abraham Maslow, which of the following would be the most appropriate factor to address first for these students?

  1. Self-esteem/self-actualization
  2. Love, affection, and group affiliation
  3. Shelter and safety
  4. Health, food, and sleep
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Option D is correct because economically disadvantaged students are mostly lacking health care, food, and sleep. Option A is incorrect because self-esteem and self-actualization are at the top of Maslow’s hierarchy and would not be the first things a disadvantaged student would need. Option B is incorrect because love, affection, and group affiliation are not the first things a disadvantaged student would need. Option C is incorrect because most disadvantaged students usually have some type of shelter and safety.

10. When assisting a person with an addiction to prescription drugs, which of the following is an essential function of a drug-dependency rehabilitation center?

  1. Teaching how to integrate drugs into one’s everyday life
  2. Teaching the pharmacology of drugs
  3. Teaching about drug interactions and safety
  4. Teaching how to handle relapse, should it occur
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Option D is correct because teaching how to handle a drug relapse is most essential to helping a person with an addiction to prescription drugs. Option A is incorrect because a treatment program would not teach someone how to integrate drugs into his or her lifestyle. Option B is incorrect because teaching the pharmacology of drugs will not help someone with a drug problem. Option C is incorrect because teaching about drug interactions and safety would not help someone stop abusing drugs.

Competency 004—The teacher understands mental and emotional health and factors that influence mental and emotional health.

11. The type of mental disorder most frequently diagnosed in the United States is

  1. anxiety disorder.
  2. substance abuse.
  3. mood disorder.
  4. eating disorder.
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Option A is correct because the most frequently diagnosed mental disorder in the United States is anxiety disorder. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because substance abuse, mood disorders, and eating disorders are not the most frequently diagnosed mental disorders in the United States.

12. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 20 percent of people age 55 or older experience some type of mental health issue. Which of the following conditions are most commonly found in this particular population?

  1. Eating disorders, depression, and schizophrenia
  2. Substance abuse and addiction
  3. Anxiety, severe cognitive impairment, and mood disorders
  4. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder
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Option C is correct because the CDC estimates that 20 percent of people age 55 or older experience some type of mental health concern. The most common conditions include anxiety, severe cognitive impairment, and mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. Option A is incorrect because although depression is common among people age 55 and older, eating disorders and schizophrenia are not common in people age 55 or older. Option B is incorrect because although drug use is increasing among people in their fifties and early sixties, youth transitioning into adulthood have some of the highest rates of alcohol and substance abuse. Option D is incorrect because attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder are not common mental health issues found in people age 55 or older.

13. During the week, Samantha, a college student, studies hard, exercises regularly, eats a nutritious diet, and gets plenty of sleep. She drinks alcohol once a week at weekend parties, where she typically has five or six drinks within two hours. Which of the following terms most accurately describes her drinking habits?

  1. Infrequent
  2. Light
  3. Moderate
  4. Binge
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Option D is correct because binge drinking is a pattern of drinking that brings a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08 grams percent or above. This typically happens when men consume five or more drinks or women consume four or more drinks in about two hours. Most people who binge drink are not alcohol dependent. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not describe the student’s drinking pattern.

Domain II—Healthy Interpersonal Relationships

Competency 005—The teacher understands family relationships and their significance for health.

14. Which of the following activities will best help students understand that family roles and responsibilities vary in different cultures?

  1. Writing an essay about family responsibilities in a different culture
  2. Watching a video describing roles and responsibilities of family members in different cultures
  3. Listening to a foreign exchange student speak about family responsibilities in his or her culture
  4. Using a graphic organizer to compare similarities and differences of family roles in different cultures
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Option D is correct because a graphic organizer will help students visualize similarities and differences among family responsibilities in numerous cultures. Option A is incorrect because students are writing about only one different culture and may not see differences in family responsibilities. Option B is incorrect because a video may supplement the lesson material but does not offer students an understanding or comparison of family responsibilities in different cultures. Option C is incorrect because although listening to a peer with different experiences can be valuable, students are only hearing one example of family responsibilities in a different culture.

15. Which of the following skills should a teacher use to improve student-teacher relationships and also teach students how to improve relationships outside of school?

  1. Empathy
  2. Structure
  3. Discipline
  4. Organization
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Option A is correct because by showing students empathy and helping them to develop empathy, the teacher will improve students’ relationships inside and outside of school. Option B is incorrect because structure from the teacher may not transfer to structure at home. Option C is incorrect because discipline is training that the parent, not the teacher, provides the child. Option D is incorrect because the teacher’s organization does not affect the students’ lives at home.

16. Which of the following is the most likely emotional response when a young child experiences the death of a close family member?

  1. Sleeping through the school day
  2. Running away from home
  3. Asking repetitive questions
  4. Engaging in risky physical behavior
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Option C is correct because it is common for young children to ask repetitive questions about the death as a way of processing it. Option A is incorrect because it is not common for young students to sleep through the school day when they have experienced death. This is a more common response for a grieving teenager or adult. Option B is incorrect because running away from home is not a common response for young, grieving children. This is an emotional response to grief more likely to occur in adolescents. Option D is incorrect because engaging in risky physical behavior is not a common response for young, grieving children; it is common in adolescents.

Competency 006—The teacher understands interpersonal relationships and healthy ways of interacting with others and avoiding conflict.

17. A district’s school board has appointed two health teachers to put together a committee that will develop a plan for social-cognitive interventions. To best meet the needs of the students and form the committee, the health teachers should do which of the following?

  1. Recruit school leaders, community leaders, and stakeholders, excluding parents
  2. Recruit only parents for the committee, as they know their children better than school employees do
  3. Recruit only school employees for the committee, as they spend the most time with the students
  4. Recruit parents, community leaders, and other community stakeholders
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Option D is correct because according to the CDC, school-based interventions will have less chance of success without the approval, cooperation, and support of the community and of the parents in particular. Option A is incorrect because school-based interventions have been shown to be more effective when they have in-school and out-of-school support, which would necessitate the involvement of the parents. Option B is incorrect because school-based interventions that involve only the parents are not very effective. Option C is incorrect because school-based interventions that involve only school employees do not have a high rate of success.

18. Students in a certain health class do not get along with one another. The teacher notices that during whole-group class discussions, there are too many negative interactions. The teacher has analyzed the role that each student is assuming. Which of the following is the next best step for the teacher to take to improve the group dynamics in the class?

  1. Placing a student who does not usually participate in class discussions in a leadership role
  2. Putting a student in charge who tends to agree with the teacher’s or the whole group’s goals and does not express his or her own opinion
  3. Providing feedback that shows students who display blocking roles the impact of their actions, and encouraging them to reflect on how they can change their behavior
  4. Changing the roles and responsibilities of students who appear to be uninterested in contributing to group discussions
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Option C is correct because students who disrupt the flow of information to the group must be retrained to contribute to the group. Option A is incorrect because a student who does not participate in the discussions will not have the skills to lead the group. Option B is incorrect because putting a student who defers to the teacher in charge of the discussion will not lead to an advantageous group discussion. Option D is incorrect because while changing the role of a student who is not interested in contributing to the group will help the student, it will not significantly change the group dynamics.

19. A health teacher is instructing the class on how to deal with criticism. Which of the following responses to criticism is best for the teacher to advocate?

  1. Recognizing the reality of the situation and dealing with it rationally
  2. Seeking revenge on the person who is bringing the criticism
  3. Bringing up the criticism with friends and getting their thoughts
  4. Discussing the point of conflict until the person withdraws the criticism
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Option A is correct because learning to recognize the reality of the situation will help students let go of resentment and deal with the situation rationally. Option B is incorrect because the conflict will not be resolved if the person seeks revenge. Option C is incorrect because getting peers involved could either create conflict or escalate existing conflict, neither of which is effective for dealing with criticism. Option D is incorrect because sometimes it is appropriate to disengage from a conversation even if disagreement still exists and there does not appear to be a resolution.

Competency 007—The teacher understands human sexuality and its significance for health.

20. A health teacher is designing a unit on adolescents and sexual activity. To do so effectively, it is important for the teacher to know the levels of sexual activity of various groups of students. Which of the following groups of adolescents have lower levels of sexual activity across all age groups?

  1. Those who are proud of their bodies
  2. Those who are from a lower socioeconomic status and reside in urban areas
  3. Those who live in a two-parent family, do well academically, and are religious
  4. Those who have a tendency to have thoughts of suicide and do not feel their parents care about them
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Option C is correct because adolescents with dual-parent families, high academic performance, and deep religious beliefs have a delayed onset of sexual activity. Option A is incorrect because adolescents who have high levels of body pride have higher levels of sexual activity. Option B is incorrect because adolescents of a lower socioeconomic status who reside in urban areas have higher levels of sexual activity across all age groups. Option D is incorrect because adolescents who tend to have thoughts of suicide and do not feel their parents care about them have higher levels of sexual activity.

21. Which of the following is the most accurate statement regarding the value of each person involved in a dating relationship?

  1. Each person has value, but a partner should learn to change to meet the other’s expectations.
  2. Each person has value, but differing opinions may cause partners to value each other less.
  3. Each person has value, but partners may stop paying attention to each other when their values differ.
  4. Each person has value and should be treated so, even if there are differences in thoughts, feelings, and values.
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Option D is correct because in a healthy relationship, each person has worth and should be treated as such, even if there are differences in thoughts, feelings, or values. Option A is incorrect because in a healthy relationship there should be no demands that one person change to meet a partner’s expectations. Option B is incorrect because even when opinions differ, in a healthy relationship the partners value each other. Option C is incorrect because paying attention to one’s partner is essential to a healthy relationship.

22. Which of the following behaviors is most characteristic of a healthy teenage dating relationship?

  1. Accompanying each other to all classes and activities throughout the day
  2. Giving each other space to hang out with friends and family
  3. Maintaining physical contact with each other as much as possible
  4. Monitoring each other’s daily activities and interactions
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Option B is correct because a sign of a healthy relationship is when teens are able to give each other space and can balance all of the relationships in their lives, as well continuing to pursue hobbies and activities outside of their romantic partnership. Option A is incorrect because while accompanying each other everywhere sounds romantic to some, it is actually a way of controlling each other’s activities and interactions. Option C is incorrect because constant physical contact, such as a hand on the back, portrays an aura of ownership and control. Option D is incorrect because a healthy relationship is built on mutual trust, it is never okay for someone to constantly monitor where their partner is, what they are doing, or who they are talking with.

23. Which of the following strategies is the most appropriate way to prevent the spread of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) to another person?

  1. Using condoms with new sexual partners
  2. Seeing a doctor and following instructions for treatment
  3. Asking sexual partners to watch for symptoms of the disease
  4. Abstaining from sex until physical symptoms of the disease disappear
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Option B is correct because a person with an STD should see a physician and follow the treatment plan in order to prevent the spread of the STD. Option A is incorrect because a person with an STD should use condoms with all partners, not just new ones, in order to prevent the spread of the STD. Option C is incorrect because a lack of physical symptoms does not ensure that the person does not have the disease. Option D is incorrect because a person with an STD should stop having sex until he or she is treated by a doctor. Lack of physical symptoms does not ensure the person does not have the disease.

Domain III—Community and Environmental Health and Safety

Competency 008—The teacher understands methods and procedures for promoting safety, preventing accidents and responding to emergencies.

24. Martin is studying nutrition in health class and has an assignment to write an essay about food preparation safety. Which THREE of the following choices are food preparation safety steps he should include?

  1. Washing hands with cold water before preparing food
  2. Washing hands, cooking utensils, produce, and cutting boards often
  3. Using a food thermometer when cooking meat and poultry to ensure proper temperatures
  4. Separating ready-to-eat foods from raw meats, poultry, seafood, and eggs
  5. Refrigerating leftover food within eight hours of serving
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Options B, C, and D are correct because illness-causing bacteria can survive on the hands, cooking utensils, produce, and cutting boards. To reduce the risk, it is important to wash hands often, use a food thermometer when cooking meat or poultry to ensure food is cooked to a safe minimum internal temperature, and separate ready-to-eat-foods from raw meats, poultry, seafood, and eggs. Option A is incorrect because hands should be washed using warm water for at least 20 seconds. Option E is incorrect because most perishable foods should be refrigerated within two hours of serving.

25. In a lesson on water safety, a high school health teacher plans to discuss rip currents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which of the following represents the recommended sequence of actions swimmers should take if they should get caught in a rip current?

  1. Swim underwater, stay beneath the current, and move diagonally toward the shore
  2. Swim sideways, stay out of the current, and move diagonally toward the shore
  3. Swim in the direction of the current, and then move perpendicularly toward the shore
  4. Swim against the current, and then move toward the shore
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Option B is correct because the CDC recommends that a swimmer who is caught in a rip current should swim sideways, parallel to shore, and then once free of the current, swim diagonally toward the shore. Option A is incorrect because one should not swim underwater when caught in a rip current. Option C is incorrect because one should not swim in the direction of the current. Option D is incorrect because a swimmer should not try to swim against the current; rather, the swimmer should swim sideways until free of the current.

26. Which of the following is the most appropriate activity for teaching high school students how to prevent and respond to potentially violent situations when they are involved in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature?

  1. Creating a mind map to describe and give examples of different types of dating violence
  2. Discussing relationship scenarios to identify warning signs of abuse or violent behavior
  3. Demonstrating the use of assertive communication and refusal skills during a dating violence role-playing activity
  4. Using the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) data to examine local trends in dating violence
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Option C is correct because in order to prevent and respond to violent situations, students must develop the competence, self-efficacy, and skill sets that will enable them to stand up for themselves. The ability to practice assertive behavior and refusal skills in the safety of a controlled classroom environment will help build competence and confidence. Option A is incorrect because the mind-mapping activity provides definitions and contextual references about dating violence but does not provide strategies for prevention or response. Option B is incorrect because the discussion of scenarios teaches students to recognize warning signs but does not provide strategies for prevention or response. Option D is incorrect because examining local YRBSS data helps students examine group norms but does not provide strategies for prevention or response.

27. Two students in a classroom are in a heated argument, and the teacher fears that it may turn into a physical fight. Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the teacher to take to ensure the safety of all parties involved?

  1. Going to the classroom across the hall for help
  2. Using the telephone to call for help
  3. Trying to talk one of the two students out of the classroom and into some other supervised space
  4. Sending another student to the office to bring back help
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Option C is correct because the safest thing to do is diffuse the situation by trying to remove one of the two students involved in the argument to prevent it from escalating into a fight. Option A is incorrect because the teacher should never move away or leave the students unattended. Option B is incorrect because the time that it takes to be on the phone takes the teacher’s attention from the students who are arguing, making the situation unsafe for everyone in the classroom. Option D is incorrect because only sending a student to the office delays response in diffusing the argument, therefore keeping the environment unsafe for everyone present.

Competency 009—The teacher understands the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, including prescription drugs, and the effects of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs on health.

28. Which of the following diseases is known to be a risk factor for alcoholism?

  1. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
  2. Sickle-cell anemia
  3. Bipolar disorder
  4. Multiple sclerosis
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Option C is correct because alcoholism is often a comorbid condition following the development of bipolar disorder. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, sickle-cell anemia, and multiple sclerosis do not typically lead to alcoholism.

29. Which of the following methods is most appropriate for a school-based strategy to reduce substance misuse or abuse?

  1. Having students research and write a report on risk and protective factors contributing to early drug use
  2. Having a panel of physicians present the dangers and long-term health consequences of substance abuse
  3. Having a teacher demonstrate the effects of smoking marijuana on the lungs by using a smoking machine simulator
  4. Having former convicts share their personal experiences and discuss the risks of drug abuse
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Option A is correct because allowing the students to seek information on factors preventing or encouraging drug use or abuse better represents theoretical and evidence-based approaches, and having the students locate, organize, and synthesize information allows them to generate their own content, thus allowing greater internalization. Option B is incorrect because a physician’s presentation is similar to a lecture, so students would have no opportunity to apply the information. Option C is incorrect because the teacher’s demonstration provides information with visual support but does not challenge students to apply the information. Option D is incorrect because former convicts sharing personal experiences uses fear-arousal techniques to dramatize drug use. Scare tactics have proven ineffective methods for reducing drug misuse or abuse.

30. Which of the following best represents the behavioral treatment which seeks to help patients recognize, avoid, and cope with the situations in which they are most likely to abuse drugs?

  1. Motivational incentives
  2. Motivational interviewing
  3. Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  4. Multidimensional family therapy
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Option C is correct because cognitive-behavioral therapy challenges drug users to analyze behaviors to help recognize, avoid, and cope with situations in which drug use is a temptation. Option A is incorrect because motivational incentives use positive reinforcement to encourage abstinence from drugs. Option B is incorrect because motivational interviewing focuses on the individual’s readiness to change behavior and enter treatment. Option D is incorrect because multidimensional family approaches examine influences on drug use patterns with an emphasis on improving overall family functioning.

Competency 010—The teacher understands issues and factors related to community and environmental health.

31. Research has shown that there is a correlation between lack of sleep and diabetes, heart disease, immune system suppression, and obesity. Which of the following groups is most at risk for these health concerns?

  1. High socioeconomic status groups
  2. Low socioeconomic status groups
  3. Students who work at least 30 hours per week
  4. Employees who work at least 50 hours per week
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Option B is correct because a recent study shows that lower socioeconomic status groups report more sleep problems, which in turn can cause diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and weakened immune systems. Option A is incorrect because the data support the theory that low economic status groups are more at risk for the health problems listed. Option C is incorrect because not all students who work 30-hour weeks are sleep deprived. Option D is incorrect because not all employees who work 50-hour weeks are sleep deprived.

32. Sara is a single mother who is addicted to drugs. Which of the following types of programs is most appropriate for Sara to take advantage of to get help with her addiction issues?

  1. Drug intervention program
  2. Drug treatment program
  3. Drug abuse prevention program
  4. Drug abuse awareness program
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Option B is correct because with Sara already being addicted to drugs, a treatment program would be best for her. Option A is incorrect because an intervention is used to urge people to obtain help. Option C is incorrect because Sara is already addicted; she cannot be prevented from abusing drugs. Option D is incorrect because Sara is already addicted; she does not need an abuse awareness program.

33. Phillip, a middle school student, has chronic, uncontrolled asthma. Phillip’s parents tell the health teacher that he wants to participate in activities at school, but he tends to shy away from most activities at school because he is embarrassed and afraid of having a flare-up. Which of the following is the best advice the health teacher can give to Phillip’s parents?

  1. Advise that Phillip opt out of gym class and stay away from all physical activities and chores at school and at home
  2. Exclude Phillip from any discussions about his asthma and treatment choices to avoid any emotional outbursts
  3. Recommend that Phillip and his parents consult with his doctor to create an asthma action plan and keep a copy at the school
  4. Encourage Phillip to keep his asthma a secret from his friends, teachers, and coaches
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Option C is correct because an asthma action plan is a written, day-to-day management plan developed by the patient, parents, and doctor to help reduce, control, and prevent asthma flare-ups. The school should have copies of the student’s action plan. Option A is incorrect because with help from their doctors, people with asthma can safely get the exercise they need to stay healthy. Option B is incorrect because teens with asthma should be involved in all discussions and treatment choices affecting their health. Option D is incorrect because students with asthma should inform teachers, coaches, and friends of their condition so they can receive emergency aid if needed.

Domain IV—Health-Related Skills and Resources

Competency 011—The teacher understands the use of decision-making and other skills in making informed choices that influence health.

34. An adolescent makes a plan to achieve personal health goals by identifying and evaluating the possible choices, making a decision, and taking responsibility for the outcome. Which of the following best represents the decision-making style described?

  1. Inactive
  2. Interactive
  3. Reactive
  4. Proactive
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Option D is correct because a proactive decision-making style requires the individual to identify and evaluate possible decisions, make a decision, and take responsibility for the outcome. Option A is incorrect because a person who fails to make choices and allows things to just happen has an inactive decision-making style. Option B is incorrect because interactive decision-making is not a style; it is a strategy involving all relevant stakeholders in a process to realize widely supported decisions. Option C is incorrect because a reactive decision-making style allows other people to make decisions for an individual.

35. A student asks a health teacher for advice about creating a weight management plan. Which of the following is the best action for the teacher to take to help the student?

  1. Tell the student to find a diet plan that is proven to jump-start metabolism and promote quick weight loss.
  2. Research weight loss plans sold on the Internet with the student to see which ones the student is interested in so the student can buy the plan and necessary items.
  3. Develop a plan with the student that begins with measuring body fat percentage, then go over meal and exercise plans and set goals.
  4. Tell the student to discuss weight loss intentions with friends and family who will have a direct influence on the student's behavior.
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Option C is correct because losing weight requires goals as well as a plan to monitor exercise and promote a healthy diet. Option A is incorrect because quick weight loss is not healthy. Slower, steady weight loss is recommended. Option B is incorrect because the Internet can contain incorrect information and unsafe weight-loss plans, and it should not be the only source of information. Option D is incorrect because although it is a good idea to discuss intentions with friends and family, this should be only a part of the plan, not the entire plan.

36. Which of the following findings from studies on adolescents best support the use of peer education as a method for helping students make informed decisions about health behaviors?

  1. Receiving counseling from physicians helps adolescents make changes to their dietary patterns.
  2. Parents of adolescents play an important role in increasing or decreasing the risk for specific behaviors.
  3. Adolescents who believe that their friends are participating in a certain health behavior are more likely to adopt that behavior.
  4. Common reasons for taking part in physical activity include enjoyment, social interaction, and weight management.
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Option C is correct because studies indicate that peers have the ability to influence health behavior choices by acting as role models; this supports the use of peer education. Option A is incorrect because physicians are not students’ peers; thus, this finding does not support the use of peer education. Option B is incorrect because parents are not their children’s peers; thus, this finding does not support the use of peer education. Option D is incorrect because this statement does not make any reference to the influence of peers on reasons for participating in physical activity; thus, this finding does not support the use of peer education.

37. Which of the following teaching strategies best utilizes the theory that students are more likely to change their attitudes and behaviors when they believe that a person who is similar to them faces the same concerns?

  1. Peer education
  2. Service learning
  3. Resistance training
  4. Youth development
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Option A is correct because peer education draws on the credibility that young people have with their peers, leverages the power of role modeling, and provides flexibility in meeting the diverse needs of today’s youth. Option B is incorrect because service learning is a technique where students learn through doing and can acquire good personal values through service to others. Option C is incorrect because resistance training is a type of exercise that utilizes isometric, isotonic, or isokinetic exercise to strengthen or develop the muscles. Option D is incorrect because youth development is a type of prevention program for hard-to-reach and underserved youth.

Competency 012—The teacher understands sources of health-related information and strategies for accessing, evaluating and using health-related information.

38. A newly pregnant woman would like to obtain information about breast-feeding. Which of the following Web sites provides the best information on this topic?

  1. Wikipedia.org
  2. YouTube.com
  3. AskDrSears.com
  4. NIH.gov
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Option D is correct because the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a government agency, is one of the world’s foremost medical research centers. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because these are not credible or reliable Web sites for health care information.

39. Which of the following is the most accurate statement about many food advertisements aimed at children?

  1. Ads often cause or bring about dietary imbalances leading to obesity.
  2. Ads often suggest portion sizes appropriate for growing children.
  3. Ads for healthy foods are not permitted to use the terms “low fat” and “organic.”
  4. Ads for fast foods portray the food realistically in comparison with the actual product.
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Option A is correct because research has found strong associations between increases in advertising nonnutritious foods and rates of childhood obesity. Option B is incorrect because the portion sizes that ads suggest are more than the average child needs. Option C is incorrect because ads for healthy food are permitted to use terms such as “low fat” and “organic.” Option D is incorrect because fast-food industry advertising often promotes products as being bigger and better than the actual thing.

40. Which of the following is the best first step for determining whether a Web site is a credible and valid source for seeking information when making health-related decisions?

  1. Looking through the news and events pages and reading through postings to gather user opinions
  2. Checking to see whether there is an address or an e-mail contact link available
  3. Determining who is responsible for the site by checking the site map for an About Us link
  4. Reading through frequently asked questions on the site to see what questions have already been asked and answered
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Option C is correct because an About Us page will help readers determine whether the people and organization affiliated with the site are credible sources in the health-related field. Option A is incorrect because a news and events page is not likely to be relevant information for making health-related decisions. Option B is incorrect because contact information is important, but only if the source is credible. Option D is incorrect because the credibility of the site must be determined before using any of the information to make health-related decisions.

41. Health-related information is readily available for public consumption. It can sometimes be confusing when trying to determine which health services and products to use and which health behaviors to practice. For people to make the most appropriate decisions about their health, it is important that they

  1. be health literate.
  2. have health insurance.
  3. search health Web sites.
  4. ask for recommendations.
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Option A is correct because a health-literate person knows where to find appropriate information regarding the purchase and use of health services and products or the adoption and practice of new health behaviors. With the right information, the chances of making the best choices for one’s own health are increased. Option B is incorrect because having health insurance is important to good health, but if one does not understand how to use it, it will not be beneficial. Option C is incorrect because, although searching through appropriate sites is part of health literacy, one must first know whether a Web site is reliable and valid. Option D is incorrect because, although asking for recommendations is part of the process for obtaining health services and products or for adopting positive health behaviors, first one needs to know how and where to find useful recommendations.

Competency 013—The teacher demonstrates knowledge of health-related products and services and the skills and strategies needed to be an informed consumer of health-related products and services.

42. Mr. Williams received a phone call from his doctor’s office letting him know that his primary health care doctor, whom he respects and trusts, will be retiring in two months. Mr. Williams must now begin the search for a new doctor. Which of the following is the best first step for Mr. Williams to take in his search?

  1. Asking his coworkers to make recommendations
  2. Searching online for other physicians close to home
  3. Obtaining a list of doctors covered by his insurance plan
  4. Asking whether his doctor will be choosing a replacement
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Option D is correct because a doctor choosing a replacement will most likely select someone trustworthy. Option A is incorrect because asking coworkers for recommendations is a good step in searching for a new doctor but is not necessarily the first step. Option B is incorrect because searching online is a possible complementary step in choosing a doctor but is not the best first step. Option C is incorrect because it is best to first get recommendations or ask whether there will be a replacement physician and then find out whether the replacement is covered by insurance.

43. After receiving a clean bill of health from her doctor and dentist, Sarah is instructed to continue with regularly scheduled medical and dental checkups for which of the following reasons?

  1. Detecting any developing health problems before they become serious
  2. Treating any injuries sustained during daily exercise routines
  3. Preventing the cost of her health insurance premiums from going up
  4. Maintaining her current weight and reducing the possibility of becoming obese
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Option A is correct because getting regular medical and dental checkups can help detect health issues that are developing and ensure they are treated promptly. Option B is incorrect because any injuries sustained must be treated immediately, not during a regularly scheduled checkup. Option C is incorrect because regular health checkups may keep medical costs down but have no effect on health insurance premiums. Option D is incorrect because maintaining her weight depends solely on Sarah and her actions and habits.

Domain V—The School Health Education Program

Competency 014—The teacher knows how to plan, implement and evaluate a school health education program and understands the role of the school health educator.

44. Which of the following is the role of the health teacher in the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model?

  1. Provide health and nutrition services for students and their families.
  2. Implement a curriculum that appropriately addresses the physical, mental, emotional, and social dimensions of health.
  3. Provide individual and group health assessments, interventions, and referrals for students.
  4. Educate parents and community members about the components of the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model.
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Option B is correct because health education is the component of the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model that implements the health curriculum for the school. Option A is incorrect because providing health and nutrition services is the role of the health services personnel. Option C is incorrect because professionals such as certified school counselors, psychologists, and social workers provide these services to support the mental health needs of students. Option D is incorrect because training parents and the community is the job of the administration and health advisory council, not just the health educator.

45. Which of the following factors should be given the greatest consideration in the planning of a school health education program that addresses both the school’s and the community’s needs?

  1. The population of the schools in the surrounding communities
  2. The contents of the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model currently being used in the school
  3. The results of a state-issued survey that provides data on health-risk behaviors among youth and young adults
  4. The input provided from the parents and guardians of students along with members of the local community
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Option D is correct because parents and local residents are familiar with the community’s health needs, so their input is valuable to use when planning a school health education program. Option A is incorrect because population is not a factor that affects an individual school health education program. Option B is incorrect because the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) program is only a part of the school health education program and may need to be supplemented with other resources. Option C is incorrect because while state survey results can be used, they do not directly address local culture, needs and interests, which may differ from state survey results.

46. A school district is implementing a School Health Advisory Council (SHAC). Which of the following is the best reason for a school district to form a SHAC?

  1. It is financially profitable.
  2. It is required by state law.
  3. It is good public relations.
  4. It is good for school staff to connect with the community.
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Option B is correct because state law states that every independent school system is required by law to have a School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), of which the majority of members must be parents who are not employed by the school district. Option A is incorrect because a SHAC may not be financially profitable. Option C is incorrect because the SHAC may or may not involve advertising. Option D is incorrect because the SHAC consists more of community members than district staff.

Competency 015—The teacher knows how to plan and implement effective school health instruction.

47. Which of the following best describes how requiring a health class to use correct grammar when writing will benefit the students?

  1. It reminds students that health is a serious academic class.
  2. It ensures that students will continue to develop language arts skills.
  3. It shows students that health teachers care about their educational futures.
  4. It ensures that students understand that writing in health class is more important than writing in other classes.
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Option B is correct because using correct grammar will help students to continue to develop language arts skills and not develop bad habits. Option A is incorrect because all school instruction should be viewed as important. Option C is incorrect because being an earnest, caring teacher is not the primary benefit of teaching correct grammar in health class. Option D is incorrect because writing is a fundamental skill needed for all education, not just in any one class.

48. A school is celebrating diversity week, and each teacher has been asked to create a lesson to examine various aspects of different cultures. Which of the following is the most appropriate way for a teacher to feature information about various cultures in a health class?

  1. Having students create a presentation about the type of diet and exercise that is common in the country of their ethnic background
  2. Creating a slide presentation that features a different country and information about that country’s health issues on each slide
  3. Having students read articles and answer questions about various countries and their cultures
  4. Showing a video to the class about various countries and their cultures
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Option A is correct because having the students explore their own ethnic background is interactive, fun, and informative. Option B is incorrect because creating a slide presentation does not allow students to interact with their family members or learn anything about themselves. Option C is incorrect because reading articles and answering questions are not interactive activities. Option D is incorrect because watching a video is not an interactive activity

49. Which of the following strategies is most effective to help high school students resist peer pressure to use drugs?

  1. Reading a fictional story about a student who says no to drugs
  2. Watching a video about a student who overdoses on drugs
  3. Role-playing a situation in which students practice saying no to drugs
  4. Writing a scenario about a student who is being pressured to use drugs
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Option C is correct because research shows that peers are the most influential factor in teenagers’ decisions to use drugs. Option A is incorrect because the students are unlikely to form a personal connection with a story that is fictitious. Option B is incorrect because there is no personal connection formed by viewing media. Option D is incorrect because writing a scenario does not show effective ways of dealing with peer pressure.

50. Which of the following is the most effective way for a health education teacher to help a student who has been a victim of cyberbullying?

  1. Prosecute the student who is cyberbullying to the fullest extent of the law
  2. Instruct the class about cyberbullying so all students can recognize the typical behaviors
  3. Restrict the use of electronics for the student who is cyberbullying to prevent future incidents
  4. Involve the student who was bullied in the resolution process to restore a feeling of safety and inclusion
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Option D is correct because involvement in the resolution process gives the victim a feeling of confidence and safety. Option A is incorrect because the punishment alone may not resolve the victim’s insecurities. Option B is incorrect because instructing the class about cyberbullying is a preventive measure, not a resolution to a current problem. Option C is incorrect because restricting the use of electronics may not prevent the cyberbullying from happening again.
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