Preparation Manual
Section 4: Sample Selected-Response Questions
Health EC–12 (157)
Expand All Answers | Collapse All Answers
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?
- Diabetes
- Stillbirth
- Low birth weight
- Herpes simplex
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Respiratory and circulatory
- Lymphatic and respiratory
- Circulatory and nervous
- Muscular and circulatory
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Adolescents’ sleep can be affected, which makes them more alert in the
early morning.
- Adolescents’ brains are fully developed by 18 years of age.
- Adolescents tend to vindictively make poor choices and experience conflict
with their parents and others, such as school staff.
- Adolescents may encounter a new and unfamiliar set of social experiences
as their bodies go through various changes.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Apples
- Nutmeg
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- High-fructose corn syrup
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Using diet pills
- Eating sensibly and exercising adequately
- Undergoing stomach surgery
- Following a very low-calorie diet
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Flexibility
- Aerobic capacity
- Muscular strength
- Body composition
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Pneumonia
- Genital herpes
- Trichinosis
- Athlete’s foot
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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
- lack of exercise.
- consumption of green, leafy vegetables.
- retirement before age 50.
- weight-reduction surgery.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Self-esteem/self-actualization
- Love, affection, and group affiliation
- Shelter and safety
- Health, food, and sleep
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Teaching how to integrate drugs into one’s everyday life
- Teaching the pharmacology of drugs
- Teaching about drug interactions and safety
- Teaching how to handle relapse, should it occur
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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
- anxiety disorder.
- substance abuse.
- mood disorder.
- eating disorder.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Eating disorders, depression, and schizophrenia
- Substance abuse and addiction
- Anxiety, severe cognitive impairment, and mood disorders
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Infrequent
- Light
- Moderate
- Binge
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Writing an essay about family responsibilities in a different culture
- Watching a video describing roles and responsibilities of family members in
different cultures
- Listening to a foreign exchange student speak about family responsibilities
in his or her culture
- Using a graphic organizer to compare similarities and differences of family
roles in different cultures
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Empathy
- Structure
- Discipline
- Organization
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Sleeping through the school day
- Running away from home
- Asking repetitive questions
- Engaging in risky physical behavior
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Recruit school leaders, community leaders, and stakeholders, excluding
parents
- Recruit only parents for the committee, as they know their children better
than school employees do
- Recruit only school employees for the committee, as they spend the most
time with the students
- Recruit parents, community leaders, and other community stakeholders
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Placing a student who does not usually participate in class discussions in a
leadership role
- 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
- 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
- Changing the roles and responsibilities of students who appear to be
uninterested in contributing to group discussions
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Recognizing the reality of the situation and dealing with it rationally
- Seeking revenge on the person who is bringing the criticism
- Bringing up the criticism with friends and getting their thoughts
- Discussing the point of conflict until the person withdraws the criticism
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Those who are proud of their bodies
- Those who are from a lower socioeconomic status and reside in urban areas
- Those who live in a two-parent family, do well academically, and are
religious
- Those who have a tendency to have thoughts of suicide and do not feel their
parents care about them
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Each person has value, but a partner should learn to change to meet the
other’s expectations.
- Each person has value, but differing opinions may cause partners to value
each other less.
- Each person has value, but partners may stop paying attention to each
other when their values differ.
- Each person has value and should be treated so, even if there are
differences in thoughts, feelings, and values.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Accompanying each other to all classes and activities throughout the day
- Giving each other space to hang out with friends and family
- Maintaining physical contact with each other as much as possible
- Monitoring each other’s daily activities and interactions
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Using condoms with new sexual partners
- Seeing a doctor and following instructions for treatment
- Asking sexual partners to watch for symptoms of the disease
- Abstaining from sex until physical symptoms of the disease disappear
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Washing hands with cold water before preparing food
- Washing hands, cooking utensils, produce, and cutting boards often
- Using a food thermometer when cooking meat and poultry to ensure proper
temperatures
- Separating ready-to-eat foods from raw meats, poultry, seafood, and eggs
- Refrigerating leftover food within eight hours of serving
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Swim underwater, stay beneath the current, and move diagonally toward
the shore
- Swim sideways, stay out of the current, and move diagonally toward the
shore
- Swim in the direction of the current, and then move perpendicularly toward
the shore
- Swim against the current, and then move toward the shore
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Creating a mind map to describe and give examples of different types of
dating violence
- Discussing relationship scenarios to identify warning signs of abuse or
violent behavior
- Demonstrating the use of assertive communication and refusal skills during
a dating violence role-playing activity
- Using the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) data to
examine local trends in dating violence
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Going to the classroom across the hall for help
- Using the telephone to call for help
- Trying to talk one of the two students out of the classroom and into some
other supervised space
- Sending another student to the office to bring back help
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Sickle-cell anemia
- Bipolar disorder
- Multiple sclerosis
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Having students research and write a report on risk and protective factors
contributing to early drug use
- Having a panel of physicians present the dangers and long-term health
consequences of substance abuse
- Having a teacher demonstrate the effects of smoking marijuana on the lungs
by using a smoking machine simulator
- Having former convicts share their personal experiences and discuss the
risks of drug abuse
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Motivational incentives
- Motivational interviewing
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Multidimensional family therapy
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- High socioeconomic status groups
- Low socioeconomic status groups
- Students who work at least 30 hours per week
- Employees who work at least 50 hours per week
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Drug intervention program
- Drug treatment program
- Drug abuse prevention program
- Drug abuse awareness program
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Advise that Phillip opt out of gym class and stay away from all physical
activities and chores at school and at home
- Exclude Phillip from any discussions about his asthma and treatment choices
to avoid any emotional outbursts
- Recommend that Phillip and his parents consult with his doctor to create an
asthma action plan and keep a copy at the school
- Encourage Phillip to keep his asthma a secret from his friends, teachers, and
coaches
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Inactive
- Interactive
- Reactive
- Proactive
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Tell the student to find a diet plan that is proven to jump-start metabolism
and promote quick weight loss.
- 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.
- Develop a plan with the student that begins with measuring body fat
percentage, then go over meal and exercise plans and set goals.
- Tell the student to discuss weight loss intentions with friends and family who
will have a direct influence on the student's behavior.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Receiving counseling from physicians helps adolescents make changes to
their dietary patterns.
- Parents of adolescents play an important role in increasing or decreasing the
risk for specific behaviors.
- Adolescents who believe that their friends are participating in a certain
health behavior are more likely to adopt that behavior.
- Common reasons for taking part in physical activity include enjoyment,
social interaction, and weight management.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Peer education
- Service learning
- Resistance training
- Youth development
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Wikipedia.org
- YouTube.com
- AskDrSears.com
- NIH.gov
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Ads often cause or bring about dietary imbalances leading to obesity.
- Ads often suggest portion sizes appropriate for growing children.
- Ads for healthy foods are not permitted to use the terms “low fat” and
“organic.”
- Ads for fast foods portray the food realistically in comparison with the actual
product.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Looking through the news and events pages and reading through postings to
gather user opinions
- Checking to see whether there is an address or an e-mail contact link
available
- Determining who is responsible for the site by checking the site map for an
About Us link
- Reading through frequently asked questions on the site to see what
questions have already been asked and answered
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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
- be health literate.
- have health insurance.
- search health Web sites.
- ask for recommendations.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Asking his coworkers to make recommendations
- Searching online for other physicians close to home
- Obtaining a list of doctors covered by his insurance plan
- Asking whether his doctor will be choosing a replacement
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Detecting any developing health problems before they become serious
- Treating any injuries sustained during daily exercise routines
- Preventing the cost of her health insurance premiums from going up
- Maintaining her current weight and reducing the possibility of becoming
obese
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Provide health and nutrition services for students and their families.
- Implement a curriculum that appropriately addresses the physical, mental,
emotional, and social dimensions of health.
- Provide individual and group health assessments, interventions, and
referrals for students.
- Educate parents and community members about the components of the
Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- The population of the schools in the surrounding communities
- The contents of the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC)
model currently being used in the school
- The results of a state-issued survey that provides data on health-risk
behaviors among youth and young adults
- The input provided from the parents and guardians of students along with
members of the local community
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- It is financially profitable.
- It is required by state law.
- It is good public relations.
- It is good for school staff to connect with the community.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- It reminds students that health is a serious academic class.
- It ensures that students will continue to develop language arts skills.
- It shows students that health teachers care about their educational futures.
- It ensures that students understand that writing in health class is more
important than writing in other classes.
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Having students create a presentation about the type of diet and exercise
that is common in the country of their ethnic background
- Creating a slide presentation that features a different country and
information about that country’s health issues on each slide
- Having students read articles and answer questions about various countries
and their cultures
- Showing a video to the class about various countries and their cultures
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Reading a fictional story about a student who says no to drugs
- Watching a video about a student who overdoses on drugs
- Role-playing a situation in which students practice saying no to drugs
- Writing a scenario about a student who is being pressured to use drugs
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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?
- Prosecute the student who is cyberbullying to the fullest extent of the law
- Instruct the class about cyberbullying so all students can recognize the
typical behaviors
- Restrict the use of electronics for the student who is cyberbullying to
prevent future incidents
- Involve the student who was bullied in the resolution process to restore a
feeling of safety and inclusion
- AnswerEnter to expand or collapse answer.Answer expanded
- 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.