B#1 Symbols

Benchmark 3-B

Explain the significance of symbols, icons, songs, traditions, and leaders of New Mexico and the United States that exemplify ideals and provide continuity and a sense of unity.

#1 Standard with Test Specifications:

Explain how the development of symbols, songs, traditions, and concepts of leadership reflect American beliefs and principles.

Sample Question:

Read the following passage about the history of the filibuster in the U.S. Senate:

“Using the filibuster to delay or block legislative action has a long history. The term filibuster -- from a Dutch word meaning "pirate" -- became popular in the 1850s, when it was applied to efforts to hold the Senate floor in order to prevent a vote on a bill. In the early years of Congress, representatives as well as senators could filibuster. As the House of Representatives grew in numbers, however, revisions to the House rules limited debate. In the smaller Senate, unlimited debate continued on the grounds that any senator should have the right to speak as long as necessary on any issue.”

Source:https://www.senate.gov/artandhistory/history/common/briefing/Filibuster_Cloture.htm

The tradition of the filibuster has been considered important in the U.S. Congress since the 1850s. What are the limitations of free speech within the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate?

A. Members of both the House of Representatives and the Senate have the right to unlimited free speech when they are in session.

B. While free speech is valued by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, due to size, the House has imposed time restrictions on speech when in session.*

C. Members of the Senate are restricted in time, while Members of the House have unlimited free speech.

D. While free speech is valued, the idea of the filibuster is outdated and takes up too much time. It has been discontinued by both the House of Representatives and the Senate.