Hawaii State Assessment (HSA) — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Which skill is most critical for success in HSA advanced concepts?

Avoiding collaboration with other professionals
Analytical thinking and evidence-based decision making (Correct answer)
Speed of task completion without quality checks
Relying on intuition without supporting evidence

Correct answer: Analytical thinking and evidence-based decision making

Analytical thinking and evidence-based decision making are essential for evaluating situations and making informed professional decisions.

Question 2: Which of the following is NOT a property used to identify a pure substance?

Density
Melting point
Mass (Correct answer)
Boiling point

Correct answer: Mass

Mass is an extensive property that depends on the amount of substance present, while melting point, boiling point, and density are intensive properties that can identify a pure substance.

Question 3: Amelia Earhart Flies Across the Atlantic In 1928, Amelia Earhart received a phone call that would change her life. She was invited to become the first woman passenger to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a plane. "The idea of just going as 'extra weight' did not appeal to me at all," she said, but she accepted the offer nonetheless. On June 17, after several delays due to bad weather, Amelia Earhart flew in a plane named Friendship with co-pilots Wilmer "Bill" Stultz and Louis "Slim" Gordon. The plane landed at Burry Port, South Wales, with just a small amount of fuel left. Amelia said, "The idea of just going as ‘extra weight’ did not appeal to me at all.” What does the phrase ‘extra weight’ refer to?

Her role as a passenger on the plane (Correct answer)
Her awareness of how she was making history
Her understanding of how heavy she was
Her fame as an international pilot

Correct answer: Her role as a passenger on the plane

Explanation: Amelia is using the phrase to describe her role as a passenger because she had the experience and the qualifications to pilot the plane herself.

Question 4: What is the primary function of the mitochondria in cells relevant to Hawaii State Assessment?

To store genetic information
To synthesize proteins
To remove waste products
To produce energy (ATP) through cellular respiration (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To produce energy (ATP) through cellular respiration

Mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the cell, converting nutrients into ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through cellular respiration, providing the energy needed for cellular functions.

Question 5: Which level of biological organization represents the most complex in Hawaii State Assessment life science?

Tissue
Cell
Ecosystem (Correct answer)
Organ

Correct answer: Ecosystem

The hierarchy from simplest to most complex goes: atom → molecule → cell → tissue → organ → organ system → organism → population → community → ecosystem → biosphere.

Question 6: Which approach is most effective for mastering social studies in Hawaii State Assessment?

Memorizing textbook definitions without understanding
Relying solely on on-the-job experience
Studying only immediately before examinations
Combining theoretical study with practical application and regular review (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Combining theoretical study with practical application and regular review

The most effective approach combines theoretical understanding with practical application, reinforced by regular review and assessment, enabling deeper comprehension and long-term retention.

Question 7: In Hawaii State Assessment, what is sampling bias?

Selecting a perfectly representative sample
A systematic error where some members of a population are more likely to be selected than others (Correct answer)
Randomly selecting participants from the entire population
Using the largest possible sample size

Correct answer: A systematic error where some members of a population are more likely to be selected than others

Sampling bias occurs when the method of selecting participants systematically favors certain characteristics over others, resulting in a sample that does not accurately represent the target population.

Question 8: In Hawaii State Assessment, what is the difference between literal and inferential comprehension?

There is no meaningful difference between them
Inferential comprehension only applies to fiction
Literal is more difficult than inferential
Literal comprehension involves stated facts; inferential requires drawing conclusions from clues (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Literal comprehension involves stated facts; inferential requires drawing conclusions from clues

Literal comprehension involves understanding explicitly stated information, while inferential comprehension requires readers to draw conclusions, make connections, and interpret meaning beyond what is directly stated.

Question 9: Animals on the Move A good way to learn about animals is to track them from space. Scientists pick individual animals and fit them with lightweight, comfortable radio transmitters. Signals from the transmitters are received by special instruments on certain satellites as they pass overhead. These satellites are operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The polar orbits of the satellites let them see nearly every part of Earth as it rotates below and receive signals from thousands of migrating animals. Which set of words has the same meanings as the “pick” and “fit”? Scientists “pick” individual animals and “fit” them with lightweight, comfortable radio transmitters.

determine , tame
claim , connect
examine, link
select, equip (Correct answer)

Correct answer: select, equip

Explanation: “Select” is a synonym for “pick”; “equip with” is a synonym for “fit with”.

Question 10: What is the primary function of the mitochondria in cells relevant to Hawaii State Assessment?

To produce energy (ATP) through cellular respiration (Correct answer)
To synthesize proteins
To store genetic information
To remove waste products

Correct answer: To produce energy (ATP) through cellular respiration

Mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the cell, converting nutrients into ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through cellular respiration, providing the energy needed for cellular functions.

Question 11: Judicial Review 1803, in a very important Supreme Court case called Marbury v. Madison, [Chief Justice John] Marshall said the Court could throw out any law passed by Congress if the Court thought that law was unconstitutional. “It is emphatically the province and duty of the judicial department to say what the law is,” wrote Chief Justice Marshall in that very important case. Marbury v. Madison began a process called “judicial review.” It gave the Supreme Court the power to decide if a law passed by Congress meets the requirements of the Constitution. But who really cares if a law is constitutional or unconstitutional if Congress wants it? Well, imagine that tomorrow Congress passes a law saying you can’t criticize the president. Suppose your mother does that and she goes to jail. That actually happens in some countries. In those countries, people are even afraid to talk to their friends. It happened here in 1798 with the Sedition Act. Judicial review protects all of us. It helps guarantee our freedoms. Judicial review made the Constitution stronger. It made the Supreme Court powerful. It made the Court a real check and balance to the two other government branches. We Americans have always cared about our freedoms, especially the freedoms guaranteed in the Bill of Rights. John Marshall made sure those rights would be protected—even from Congress and the president. Joy Hakim, the author of the passage, believes that Judicial Review is a positive process. Which of the following sentences from the passage best supports the above statement?

Marbury v. Madison began a process called “judicial review.”
Well, imagine that tomorrow Congress passes a law saying you can’t criticize the president.
In those countries people are even afraid to talk to their friends.
Judicial review protects all of us. (Correct answer)
But who really cares if a law is constitutional or unconstitutional if Congress wants it?

Correct answer: Judicial review protects all of us.

Explanation: In this sentence, Hakim expresses her belief that Judicial Review “protects” people; students can infer that she believes this is a positive thing.

Question 12: What is the primary objective of social studies in Hawaii State Assessment?

To ensure competence and proficiency in core social studies concepts (Correct answer)
To replace practical experience entirely
To generate revenue for testing organizations
To limit access to the profession

Correct answer: To ensure competence and proficiency in core social studies concepts

The primary objective of social studies knowledge is to ensure practitioners have the competence and proficiency needed to perform effectively and safely in their professional roles.

Question 13: Two magnets are brought near each other with their north poles facing. What will happen?

They will attract each other
They will repel each other (Correct answer)
The magnets will lose their magnetism
They will have no effect on each other

Correct answer: They will repel each other

Like magnetic poles repel each other; two north poles facing will push away from one another.

Question 14: By the time we reached the zoo, Jimmy and I were out of breath. Sweat was trickling into my eyes and soaking my T-shirt. “Where . . . is . . . she?” he asked in short gasps as we looked around the main entrance. I was dizzy from running so hard, so I didn’t notice her until she gave me a little wave. There she was, in a short-sleeved green uniform, smiling warmly under the shade of a big oak tree. She looked just like her picture on the website. Her white curls were peeking out from under a straw hat. Select the group of sentences that would follow the given passage most logically.

“We’ve got to get out of here,” said Jimmy, and I agreed. Even though I was desperate to get indoors to warm up, I followed him back to the sidewalk.
“Are you Ms. Jackson?” I asked nervously. “My name is Javier, and this is my friend, Jimmy. Sorry, we’re late.” (Correct answer)
Jimmy and I strolled over to her. “Excuse me,” I said. “Would you mind telling us where the penguins are?”
It was always nice to see my grandma. “We’re worn out,” I said. “Can you please buy us some lemonade?”

Correct answer: “Are you Ms. Jackson?” I asked nervously. “My name is Javier, and this is my friend, Jimmy. Sorry, we’re late.”

Explanation: This option is the key because Javier’s introduction suggests that this is a prearranged but initial meeting, which follows logically from the fact that the woman waves to them and that they recognize her from her picture on a website. The apology for being late also provides an explanation for why the boys were running.

Question 15: What is the relationship between theory and practice in Hawaii State Assessment critical thinking?

Theory provides the foundation and framework that guides effective practical application (Correct answer)
Theory replaces the need for any practical experience
Theory and practice are completely unrelated
Practice is only important; theory is unnecessary

Correct answer: Theory provides the foundation and framework that guides effective practical application

Theory and practice are complementary: theoretical knowledge provides the conceptual framework and understanding that guides effective, evidence-based practical application in professional settings.

Question 16: What is a "control group" in Hawaii State Assessment research?

A group that does not receive the experimental treatment, serving as a baseline comparison (Correct answer)
A group of researchers overseeing the study
The largest group in any experiment
The group that receives the experimental treatment

Correct answer: A group that does not receive the experimental treatment, serving as a baseline comparison

The control group does not receive the experimental treatment or intervention, providing a baseline against which the experimental group's results can be compared to determine the effect of the treatment.

Question 17: What is the purpose of peer review in Hawaii State Assessment data analysis?

To have qualified experts evaluate research quality before publication (Correct answer)
To guarantee that all research is approved
To speed up the publication process
To allow friends to proofread for spelling errors

Correct answer: To have qualified experts evaluate research quality before publication

Peer review involves independent evaluation of research by qualified experts in the field, assessing methodology, validity, significance, and contribution to knowledge before publication.

Question 18: In Hawaii State Assessment, what is homeostasis?

The process of cell division
A rapid increase in body temperature
A type of immune response
The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes

Homeostasis is the process by which biological systems maintain internal stability and balance (temperature, pH, glucose levels, etc.) while adjusting to changing external conditions.

Question 19: The Fox and the Goat A Fox fell into a well, and though it was not very deep, he found that he could not get out again. After he had been in the well a long time, a thirsty Goat came by. The Goat thought the Fox had gone down to drink, so he asked if the water was good. "The finest in the whole country," said the crafty Fox, "jump in and try it. There is more than enough for both of us." The thirsty Goat immediately jumped in and began to drink. The Fox just as quickly jumped on the Goat's back. Then he leaped from the tip of the Goat's horns out of the well. The foolish Goat now saw what he had gotten into. He begged the Fox to help him out. What does the word “crafty” suggest about the Fox?

He is good at hunting
He is tired of waiting.
He is kind to others.
He is clever at tricks. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: He is clever at tricks.

Explanation: The whole story is about the fox’s cleverness in tricking the goat. The specific context of the sentence in which “crafty” appears clearly conveys the meaning since it is the sentence in which the fox is communicating the trick to the goat.

Question 20: What is the primary objective of critical thinking in Hawaii State Assessment?

To replace practical experience entirely
To limit access to the profession
To ensure competence and proficiency in core critical thinking concepts (Correct answer)
To generate revenue for testing organizations

Correct answer: To ensure competence and proficiency in core critical thinking concepts

The primary objective of critical thinking knowledge is to ensure practitioners have the competence and proficiency needed to perform effectively and safely in their professional roles.

Question 21: How does continuous improvement apply to HSA advanced concepts?

Through regular evaluation of practices and implementation of evidence-based updates (Correct answer)
Through avoiding all forms of self-assessment
By making changes only when problems occur
By maintaining the same procedures indefinitely

Correct answer: Through regular evaluation of practices and implementation of evidence-based updates

Continuous improvement involves systematically evaluating current practices and implementing evidence-based updates to enhance performance and outcomes.

Question 22: The principal concluded that there was more variability in the number of books sold by Class 1 than Class 2. Which statement is true about the principal’s conclusion?

It is invalid because the interquartile range for Class 1 is less than the interquartile range for Class 2.
It is valid because the median for Class 1 is greater than the median for Class 2.
It is valid because the range for Class 1 is greater than the range for Class 2. (Correct answer)
It is invalid because the minimum value for Class 1 is less than the minimum value for Class 2.

Correct answer: It is valid because the range for Class 1 is greater than the range for Class 2.

Explanation: Statement 2 is true about the principal’s conclusion.

Question 23: What does "context clues" mean in Hawaii State Assessment reading comprehension?

Looking up every word in a dictionary
Skipping unfamiliar words entirely
Using surrounding words and sentences to determine the meaning of unfamiliar terms (Correct answer)
Reading only the first sentence of each paragraph

Correct answer: Using surrounding words and sentences to determine the meaning of unfamiliar terms

Context clues are hints provided by surrounding words, phrases, and sentences that help readers infer the meaning of unfamiliar vocabulary without external reference materials.

Question 24: Which type of wave requires NO medium to travel through?

Water waves
Electromagnetic waves (Correct answer)
Seismic waves
Sound waves

Correct answer: Electromagnetic waves

Electromagnetic waves (like light, radio waves, and X-rays) do not require a medium and can travel through the vacuum of space.

Question 25: In a class of 30 students, 18 students scored above 80% in a math test. What percentage of the class scored above 80%?

30%
40%
60% (Correct answer)
75%

Correct answer: 60%

Explanation: To find the percentage of students who scored above 80%, divide the number of students who scored above 80% by the total number of students and multiply by 100: (18/30) * 100 = 60%.

Question 26: When a guitar string vibrates, it produces sound. This sound travels to your ears as:

Electromagnetic waves
Light waves
Mechanical waves (Correct answer)
Radiation

Correct answer: Mechanical waves

Sound is a mechanical wave that requires a medium (such as air) to travel through, unlike electromagnetic waves which can travel through a vacuum.

Question 27: In Hawaii State Assessment, what does pH measure?

The pressure within a container
The acidity or alkalinity of a solution on a scale of 0 to 14 (Correct answer)
The viscosity of a solution
The temperature of a liquid

Correct answer: The acidity or alkalinity of a solution on a scale of 0 to 14

pH measures the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution, indicating its acidity (pH < 7), neutrality (pH = 7), or alkalinity (pH > 7) on a scale from 0 to 14.

Question 28: What is a controlled variable in an experiment related to Hawaii State Assessment?

The outcome that is measured
A variable that changes randomly
A factor that is kept constant throughout the experiment (Correct answer)
The variable that is intentionally changed

Correct answer: A factor that is kept constant throughout the experiment

Controlled variables (constants) are factors that are deliberately kept the same throughout an experiment to ensure that any observed changes are due to the independent variable being tested.

Question 29: In Hawaii State Assessment, what is homeostasis?

A rapid increase in body temperature
The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes (Correct answer)
A type of immune response
The process of cell division

Correct answer: The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes

Homeostasis is the process by which biological systems maintain internal stability and balance (temperature, pH, glucose levels, etc.) while adjusting to changing external conditions.

Question 30: In Hawaii State Assessment, what is the purpose of the scientific method in life science?

To guarantee specific experimental outcomes
To provide a systematic approach for investigating questions and testing hypotheses (Correct answer)
To eliminate the need for observation
To replace professional judgment entirely

Correct answer: To provide a systematic approach for investigating questions and testing hypotheses

The scientific method provides a structured, systematic approach for asking questions, forming hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

Question 31: In HSA, what is the relationship between standards and advanced concepts?

Standards only apply to entry-level professionals
There is no relationship between standards and practice
Standards are suggestions that can be freely ignored
Standards provide the framework and benchmarks that guide professional practice (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Standards provide the framework and benchmarks that guide professional practice

Professional standards establish the framework, benchmarks, and expectations that guide practice, ensuring consistency, quality, and accountability.

Question 32: A company designed two rectangular maps of the same region. These maps are described below. Map 1: The dimensions are 8 inches by 10 inches. The scale is 3/4 mile to 1 inch. Map 2: The dimensions are 4 inches by 5 inches. Which ratio represents the scale on Map 2?

1/2 mile to 3/4 inch
3/4 mile to 1/2 inch (Correct answer)
1/4 mile to 1 inch
3/8 mile to 1 inch

Correct answer: 3/4 mile to 1/2 inch

Explanation: Let's find the scale for Map 2. For Map 1, 1 inch = 3/4 mile. Given that Map 2 has dimensions half of Map 1, its scale will be doubled. So, for Map 2, 1 inch = 3/4 × 2 = 3/2 miles. Therefore, the correct answer is: 3/4 mile to 1/2 inch.

Question 33: What is the relationship between theory and practice in Hawaii State Assessment social studies?

Practice is only important; theory is unnecessary
Theory and practice are completely unrelated
Theory replaces the need for any practical experience
Theory provides the foundation and framework that guides effective practical application (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Theory provides the foundation and framework that guides effective practical application

Theory and practice are complementary: theoretical knowledge provides the conceptual framework and understanding that guides effective, evidence-based practical application in professional settings.

Question 34: Which approach is most effective for mastering critical thinking in Hawaii State Assessment?

Combining theoretical study with practical application and regular review (Correct answer)
Studying only immediately before examinations
Memorizing textbook definitions without understanding
Relying solely on on-the-job experience

Correct answer: Combining theoretical study with practical application and regular review

The most effective approach combines theoretical understanding with practical application, reinforced by regular review and assessment, enabling deeper comprehension and long-term retention.

Question 35: In Hawaii State Assessment, what does pH measure?

The pressure within a container
The temperature of a liquid
The viscosity of a solution
The acidity or alkalinity of a solution on a scale of 0 to 14 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The acidity or alkalinity of a solution on a scale of 0 to 14

pH measures the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution, indicating its acidity (pH < 7), neutrality (pH = 7), or alkalinity (pH > 7) on a scale from 0 to 14.

Question 36: Which of the following is an example of converting electrical energy into light energy?

A battery charging
A fan spinning
A car engine running
A light bulb glowing (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A light bulb glowing

A light bulb converts electrical energy into light energy (and some heat), making it a direct example of this energy transformation.

Question 37: A carpenter used exactly 25 feet of wood to make 9 shelves of equal length. Each shelf measured between:

3 and 4 feet.
2 and 3 feet. (Correct answer)
1 and 2 feet.
4 and 5 feet.

Correct answer: 2 and 3 feet.

Explanation: To find the length of each shelf, divide the total length of wood (25 feet) by the number of shelves (9). 25 feet/9 shelves ≈ 2.78 feet So, each shelf measures approximately 2.78 feet. Therefore, the correct answer is 2 and 3 feet.

Question 38: In Hawaii State Assessment, why is critical thinking knowledge important for professional certification?

It has no practical relevance to daily work
It demonstrates competence and ensures practitioners meet established standards (Correct answer)
It is important only for entry-level positions
It is only required for administrative purposes

Correct answer: It demonstrates competence and ensures practitioners meet established standards

Professional certification in specific knowledge areas demonstrates that practitioners have met established competency standards, ensuring quality of service and public protection.

Question 39: In Hawaii State Assessment, what role does continuing education play in number sense?

To increase testing frequency for compliance purposes
To keep professionals current with evolving standards, technologies, and best practices (Correct answer)
To replace initial certification requirements
To prevent professionals from advancing in their careers

Correct answer: To keep professionals current with evolving standards, technologies, and best practices

Continuing education ensures professionals stay current with new developments, evolving standards, and emerging best practices in their field, maintaining competence throughout their careers.

Question 40: In art class, Marvin painted tiles to use for a project. For every 5 tiles he painted blue, he painted 8 tiles green. Identify the equivalent ratio(s) of blue tiles to green tiles.

60:96 (Correct answer)
20:23
40:25
50:800

Correct answer: 60:96

Explanation: 60:96 is an equivalent ratio of blue tiles to green tiles.

Question 41: In Hawaii State Assessment, what role does continuing education play in social studies?

To increase testing frequency for compliance purposes
To prevent professionals from advancing in their careers
To replace initial certification requirements
To keep professionals current with evolving standards, technologies, and best practices (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To keep professionals current with evolving standards, technologies, and best practices

Continuing education ensures professionals stay current with new developments, evolving standards, and emerging best practices in their field, maintaining competence throughout their careers.

Question 42: Why is interdisciplinary collaboration important in HSA advanced concepts?

It is only relevant for research activities
Collaboration slows down decision-making without benefits
It brings diverse perspectives that enhance problem-solving and outcomes (Correct answer)
Each discipline should work in complete isolation

Correct answer: It brings diverse perspectives that enhance problem-solving and outcomes

Interdisciplinary collaboration combines diverse expertise and perspectives, leading to more comprehensive analysis, creative solutions, and improved outcomes.

Question 43: In Hawaii State Assessment, what is the purpose of the scientific method in science?

To provide a systematic approach for investigating questions and testing hypotheses (Correct answer)
To eliminate the need for observation
To replace professional judgment entirely
To guarantee specific experimental outcomes

Correct answer: To provide a systematic approach for investigating questions and testing hypotheses

The scientific method provides a structured, systematic approach for asking questions, forming hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

Question 44: In Hawaii State Assessment, why is social studies knowledge important for professional certification?

It is only required for administrative purposes
It has no practical relevance to daily work
It demonstrates competence and ensures practitioners meet established standards (Correct answer)
It is important only for entry-level positions

Correct answer: It demonstrates competence and ensures practitioners meet established standards

Professional certification in specific knowledge areas demonstrates that practitioners have met established competency standards, ensuring quality of service and public protection.

Question 45: What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research in Hawaii State Assessment?

Qualitative explores experiences and meanings; quantitative measures and counts numerical data (Correct answer)
There is no meaningful difference between them
Qualitative is always more rigorous than quantitative
Quantitative cannot be used in social sciences

Correct answer: Qualitative explores experiences and meanings; quantitative measures and counts numerical data

Qualitative research explores experiences, perceptions, and meanings through methods like interviews and observation. Quantitative research measures variables numerically through surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis.

Question 46: Which form of energy is stored in a stretched rubber band?

Thermal energy
Chemical energy
Elastic potential energy (Correct answer)
Kinetic energy

Correct answer: Elastic potential energy

A stretched rubber band stores elastic potential energy due to its deformed shape; this energy is released when the band returns to its original form.

Question 47: In Hawaii State Assessment, what is the purpose of a literature review in data analysis?

To list all publications by a single author
To determine the budget for the study
To copy findings from other researchers
To survey existing research and identify gaps that the current study addresses (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To survey existing research and identify gaps that the current study addresses

A literature review surveys and synthesizes existing research on a topic, establishing what is already known, identifying gaps or inconsistencies, and providing context and justification for the current study.

Question 48: What role does documentation play in HSA advanced concepts?

It is only necessary for legal compliance
It creates accountability, supports communication, and provides a record for future reference (Correct answer)
It replaces the need for verbal communication
Documentation is optional and rarely needed

Correct answer: It creates accountability, supports communication, and provides a record for future reference

Documentation serves multiple critical purposes: creating accountability, supporting team communication, providing historical records, and enabling quality improvement.

Question 49: What is a best practice in Hawaii State Assessment social studies?

Any practice that is easy to implement
A practice used only by large organizations
The cheapest available approach
A method or technique recognized as superior based on evidence and expert consensus (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A method or technique recognized as superior based on evidence and expert consensus

Best practices are methods, techniques, or approaches that are recognized through evidence, research, and expert consensus as producing superior results and are recommended for adoption.

Question 50: In Hawaii State Assessment, what does "statistical significance" mean?

The result is practically important in real-world terms
The study used a large sample size
The result is unlikely to have occurred by chance alone (typically p < 0.05) (Correct answer)
The findings confirm the researcher's hypothesis

Correct answer: The result is unlikely to have occurred by chance alone (typically p < 0.05)

Statistical significance indicates that an observed result is unlikely to have occurred by random chance, typically when the p-value is less than 0.05 (5% probability of occurring by chance).

Question 51: Which level of biological organization represents the most complex in Hawaii State Assessment earth science?

Cell
Organ
Ecosystem (Correct answer)
Tissue

Correct answer: Ecosystem

The hierarchy from simplest to most complex goes: atom → molecule → cell → tissue → organ → organ system → organism → population → community → ecosystem → biosphere.

Question 52: The following is a paragraph from an informational essay about chewing gum. Read the paragraph, and then answer the question that follows. Everyone knows how hard it is to get gum off your shoe when you step on it, and cities face the same problem with sidewalks. Chewing gum that people throw on the ground has become a serious problem for many towns and cities. One way to remove this gum is to chill it so it is easier to peel away. Another way to get rid of it is to put some oil on it to make it softer and easier to remove. But none of these “things” is perfect. Which word is the clearest and most specific substitute for “things” in the last sentence: But none of these "things" is perfect.

issues
offers
methods (Correct answer)
efforts

Correct answer: methods

Explanation: The word “methods” is the best choice because it corresponds directly to the chewing gum removal techniques described in the previous sentence.

Question 53: Which of the following correctly describes the Law of Conservation of Energy?

Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed (Correct answer)
Energy can be created from nothing
Energy can be destroyed when used
Energy always increases in a system

Correct answer: Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed

The Law of Conservation of Energy states that the total energy in a closed system remains constant — it can change forms but cannot be created or destroyed.

Question 54: At what temperature does water boil at standard atmospheric pressure?

212°F only
0°C
50°C
100°C (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 100°C

Water boils at 100°C (which is also 212°F) at standard atmospheric pressure (1 atm or 101.325 kPa).

Question 55: In Hawaii State Assessment writing, what does "parallel structure" mean?

Writing sentences of exactly the same length
Repeating the same idea in every paragraph
Using the same word at the start of every sentence
Using the same grammatical pattern for similar elements in a sentence (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Using the same grammatical pattern for similar elements in a sentence

Parallel structure (parallelism) means using consistent grammatical patterns when listing or comparing items, making writing clearer and more professional.

Question 56: What is the primary function of the mitochondria in cells relevant to Hawaii State Assessment?

To remove waste products
To synthesize proteins
To store genetic information
To produce energy (ATP) through cellular respiration (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To produce energy (ATP) through cellular respiration

Mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the cell, converting nutrients into ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through cellular respiration, providing the energy needed for cellular functions.

Question 57: Excerpt from Gary Soto’s novel Summer on Wheels. Bentley sat at the kitchen table running an ice cube back and forth across the knot on his forehead. The knot was like a speed bump. The ice cube glided across smooth skin before it jumped up and over the knot. Bentley whimpered like the puppy he was. He had flown over the handlebars and not only hurt his head but also scraped his elbows and chin. And the air left his lungs when he belly-flopped. It took a full minute before he could get enough air back into his system to complain, “Golly, that smarted. Bentley feels hurt and upset after falling off his bike. Which of the following sentences from the passage best supports this statement?

And the air left his lungs when he belly-flopped.
The ice cube glided across smooth skin before it jumped up and over the knot.
Bentley whimpered like the puppy he was. (Correct answer)
Bentley sat at the kitchen table running an ice cube back and forth across the knot on his forehead.

Correct answer: Bentley whimpered like the puppy he was.

Explanation: The word “whimpered” suggests that Bentley feels unhappy and that his injuries are painful, and the description of him as a “puppy” makes him seem vulnerable and sensitive.

Question 58: A 10 kg object is moving at 2 m/s. What is its kinetic energy? (KE = ½mv²)

20 J (Correct answer)
40 J
10 J
100 J

Correct answer: 20 J

KE = ½ × 10 kg × (2 m/s)² = ½ × 10 × 4 = 20 Joules.

Question 59: Which of the following is an example of a physical change?

Cutting paper (Correct answer)
Burning wood
Baking a cake
Rusting iron

Correct answer: Cutting paper

Cutting paper only changes the shape and size of the material without producing a new substance, making it a physical change.

Question 60: In Hawaii State Assessment, what is the purpose of the scientific method in earth science?

To replace professional judgment entirely
To provide a systematic approach for investigating questions and testing hypotheses (Correct answer)
To guarantee specific experimental outcomes
To eliminate the need for observation

Correct answer: To provide a systematic approach for investigating questions and testing hypotheses

The scientific method provides a structured, systematic approach for asking questions, forming hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

Question 61: What is the relationship between theory and practice in Hawaii State Assessment number sense?

Theory and practice are completely unrelated
Theory provides the foundation and framework that guides effective practical application (Correct answer)
Practice is only important; theory is unnecessary
Theory replaces the need for any practical experience

Correct answer: Theory provides the foundation and framework that guides effective practical application

Theory and practice are complementary: theoretical knowledge provides the conceptual framework and understanding that guides effective, evidence-based practical application in professional settings.

Question 62: Which level of biological organization represents the most complex in Hawaii State Assessment science?

Cell
Tissue
Ecosystem (Correct answer)
Organ

Correct answer: Ecosystem

The hierarchy from simplest to most complex goes: atom → molecule → cell → tissue → organ → organ system → organism → population → community → ecosystem → biosphere.

Question 63: The level of the top of the water in the ocean is considered to be at an altitude of zero (0) feet. ‥ The ocean floor at a particular dive site is − 20 feet. ‥ A diver is located at − 5 feet at that same site. ‥ The captain of a boat is located at an altitude of 15 feet, directly above the diver. When the diver swims to − 10 feet, the diver will be the same distance below the top of the water as the captain is above the top of the water.

False (Correct answer)
True

Correct answer: False

Explanation: When the diver swims to -10 feet, they are 10 feet below the top of the water (which is at 0 feet altitude). At the same time, the captain of the boat remains at an altitude of 15 feet above the top of the water. Therefore, the diver will not be at the same distance below the top of the water as the captain is above it.

Question 64: Which state of matter has a definite volume but no definite shape?

Liquid (Correct answer)
Solid
Gas
Plasma

Correct answer: Liquid

Liquids have a definite volume but take the shape of whatever container they are placed in, giving them no definite shape.

Question 65: What is the primary objective of number sense in Hawaii State Assessment?

To replace practical experience entirely
To generate revenue for testing organizations
To limit access to the profession
To ensure competence and proficiency in core number sense concepts (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To ensure competence and proficiency in core number sense concepts

The primary objective of number sense knowledge is to ensure practitioners have the competence and proficiency needed to perform effectively and safely in their professional roles.

Question 66: What is a controlled variable in an experiment related to Hawaii State Assessment?

A factor that is kept constant throughout the experiment (Correct answer)
The outcome that is measured
The variable that is intentionally changed
A variable that changes randomly

Correct answer: A factor that is kept constant throughout the experiment

Controlled variables (constants) are factors that are deliberately kept the same throughout an experiment to ensure that any observed changes are due to the independent variable being tested.

Question 67: What is a controlled variable in an experiment related to Hawaii State Assessment?

The variable that is intentionally changed
The outcome that is measured
A variable that changes randomly
A factor that is kept constant throughout the experiment (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A factor that is kept constant throughout the experiment

Controlled variables (constants) are factors that are deliberately kept the same throughout an experiment to ensure that any observed changes are due to the independent variable being tested.

Question 68: Which of the following objects has the greatest gravitational potential energy?

A book on a desk 1 meter high
A book being carried at 1.5 meters
A book on the floor
A book on a shelf 2 meters high (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A book on a shelf 2 meters high

Gravitational potential energy increases with height; the book on the 2-meter shelf has the greatest height and therefore the most gravitational potential energy.

Question 69: What is a best practice in Hawaii State Assessment critical thinking?

The cheapest available approach
A method or technique recognized as superior based on evidence and expert consensus (Correct answer)
Any practice that is easy to implement
A practice used only by large organizations

Correct answer: A method or technique recognized as superior based on evidence and expert consensus

Best practices are methods, techniques, or approaches that are recognized through evidence, research, and expert consensus as producing superior results and are recommended for adoption.

Question 70: Which organizational pattern arranges information from most important to least important?

Spatial order
Compare and contrast
Inverted pyramid structure (Correct answer)
Chronological order

Correct answer: Inverted pyramid structure

The inverted pyramid structure places the most important information first, followed by supporting details in decreasing order of importance, commonly used in journalism and executive communication.

Question 71: Duke Ellington's Early Years Duke Ellington was born in 1899 in Washington, D.C., and from an early age he loved music. When he was four years old, he listened to his mother play a popular piano tune called "The Rosary" and he cried, saying, "It was so pretty. So pretty." Not long after that, at the age of seven, he began to play piano himself. It seems that he knew he was going to go places. He told his next-door neighbor, Mr. Pinn, "One of these days I'm going to be famous." At age 15, Ellington worked at a soda fountain and wrote his first song, "Soda Fountain Rag." By his late teens, he was making enough money to help his parents move into a better house. One of Ellington's first professional gigs was a party where he played so long that his hand bled. He earned 75 cents. "It was the most money I had ever seen," he said. "I rushed all the way home to my mother with it. But I could not touch a piano key for weeks. . . " What does this idiom mean in the first sentence: “It seems that he knew he was going to go places.”

Ellington was determined to become a recognized entertainer. (Correct answer)
Ellington was prepared to visit many cities around the world.
Ellington was eager to work to earn money to help his parents.
Ellington was anxious to leave the home where he grew up.

Correct answer: Ellington was determined to become a recognized entertainer.

Explanation: The idiom means that he realized that he was going to become famous as a musician and entertainer.

Question 72: In Hawaii State Assessment, what is homeostasis?

A rapid increase in body temperature
The process of cell division
A type of immune response
The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes

Homeostasis is the process by which biological systems maintain internal stability and balance (temperature, pH, glucose levels, etc.) while adjusting to changing external conditions.

Question 73: In Hawaii State Assessment, what role does continuing education play in critical thinking?

To keep professionals current with evolving standards, technologies, and best practices (Correct answer)
To prevent professionals from advancing in their careers
To replace initial certification requirements
To increase testing frequency for compliance purposes

Correct answer: To keep professionals current with evolving standards, technologies, and best practices

Continuing education ensures professionals stay current with new developments, evolving standards, and emerging best practices in their field, maintaining competence throughout their careers.

Question 74: According to Newton's First Law of Motion, an object at rest will:

Begin moving on its own over time
Stay at rest unless acted on by an unbalanced force (Correct answer)
Slow down due to gravity
Always accelerate downward

Correct answer: Stay at rest unless acted on by an unbalanced force

Newton's First Law (inertia) states that an object at rest stays at rest and an object in motion stays in motion unless an unbalanced (net) force acts on it.

Hawaii State Assessment (HSA)

The Hawaii State Assessment (HSA) measures student proficiency in Mathematics and Science, including Earth Science, Life Science, and Physical Science, aligned to Hawaii Common Core Standards and Next Generation Science Standards for grades 5, 8, and high school.

Questions

120 min

Time Limit

65%

To Pass

Checking for saved progress...

Exam Rules

You can skip questions and return to them later
Flag questions for review before submitting
No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
Timer auto-submits when time runs out
Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds