BECE 2024 Social Studies Past Questions and Answers
Answer all questions in this section.
Each question is followed by four options lettered A to D. Find the correct answer for each question.
1. What is the best way to address deviant behaviour in an adolescent?
Solution: Counseling is the most effective way to address deviant behavior as it helps the adolescent understand the consequences of their actions and guides them toward positive behavior. Ignoring or neglecting the issue can worsen the behavior, while punishment alone may not address the root cause.
2. What is the most likely effect of a large family size on the family’s living conditions?
Solution: A large family size often leads to overcrowding and reduced living space, as resources such as housing and finances are stretched thin among more members.
3. A teacher, Mr. Jones, encourages his students to work together on a group project. What agency of socialization is influencing the students’ behaviour?
Solution: The teacher and the school environment represent the "Education" agency of socialization, as they shape students' behavior through structured learning and collaboration.
4. The first general election held in the Gold Coast in 1951 was won by the
Solution: The Convention People’s Party (CPP), led by Kwame Nkrumah, won the 1951 general election, marking a significant step toward Ghana's independence.
5. A market square in your community is in need of a clean-up and restoration. Which of the following options will best help address the challenge?
Solution: Collective action through community volunteer groups is the most effective way to address communal challenges like clean-up exercises, as it fosters teamwork and shared responsibility.
6. Which of the following agricultural practices helps to prevent soil erosion?
Solution: Cover cropping involves planting crops to cover the soil, which reduces erosion by protecting the soil from wind and water damage.
7. Two communities are claiming ownership of a river which serves as their livelihood. This has resulted in conflicts between the two communities for many years. Which of the following mediations will best help to resolve the conflict?
Solution: Conflict resolution is most effective when it involves open communication and mutually acceptable solutions, ensuring both parties feel heard and satisfied.
8. In 1966, a military Coup d’etat overthrew the government of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. What was the main reason for the Coup?
Solution: The coup was primarily driven by economic mismanagement, corruption, and growing dissatisfaction with Nkrumah's government.
9. The destruction of farm lands by cattle and the confrontation between herdsmen and farming communities in Ghana can best be resolved by
Solution: Cattle ranching provides a structured and controlled environment for rearing cattle, reducing conflicts between herdsmen and farmers.
10. Ghana’s public sector faces various challenges with respect to human resource development. Which of the following challenges is the most suitable challenge in the above given scenario?
Solution: Limited career advancement opportunities demotivate employees and hinder the growth of skilled human resources in the public sector.
11. Which type of map will be most suitable for determining the elevation of a mountain range?
Solution: Topographical maps show elevation and terrain features, making them ideal for studying mountain ranges.
12. Which of the following military rulers of Ghana implemented the Economic Recovery Program (ERP)?
Solution: Jerry Rawlings introduced the ERP in the 1980s to revive Ghana's struggling economy through structural adjustments.
13. Which of the following scenarios explain the main purpose of the Internet?
Solution: The Internet's primary purpose is to connect devices and facilitate communication, information sharing, and convenience.
14. There is an ongoing illegal mining activity in a community. The miners are using earth moving machines, cyanide and mercury. Sixty acres of vegetation cover is pulled down every hour. Which of the following options best describes the long term effect of their activities on the land?
Solution: Illegal mining causes land degradation, which includes soil erosion, loss of vegetation, and contamination from chemicals like mercury.
15. One similarity between Ghana and its neighbouring country, Togo, is they both have
Solution: Both Ghana and Togo share a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, which is a key geographical similarity.
16. What is the main function of socialization? To
Solution: Socialization primarily transmits cultural norms, values, and societal expectations to individuals.
17. Which of the following entrepreneurial skills is most important for someone starting a business to acquire in order to help overcome unexpected challenges?
Solution: Adaptability allows entrepreneurs to adjust to changing circumstances and overcome unforeseen challenges.
18. In 1957 the people of Ghana gained independence from the British colonial rule after a long political struggle. What was the main reason for Ghana’s independence? To
Solution: A key goal of independence was to gain control over Ghana's natural resources and economic freedom from colonial exploitation.
19. What type of climate, typically found near the equator is characterized by very high temperatures and very low rainfall?
Solution: Tropical climates near the equator are known for high temperatures, though the question's description of "very low rainfall" is more typical of desert climates. However, the best fit among the options is tropical.
20. People join social security and pension schemes in order to
Solution: Social security and pension schemes are designed to provide financial support during retirement.
21. Which of the following challenges did Ghana face soon after independence in 1957?
Solution: Post-independence Ghana faced political instability and internal conflicts as it transitioned to self-governance.
22. It has been observed that the population of Ghana has been rising rapidly over the years. What is the primary reason for the rapidly growing population?
Solution: High birth rates and declining mortality rates are the main drivers of rapid population growth in Ghana.
23. The following factors affect Ghana’s ability to exploit its natural resources effectively except
Solution: Farming activities are not a hindrance to resource exploitation; rather, they are part of the economy.
24. What is the most common form of marriage in Ghana?
Solution: Monogamous marriages (one spouse) are the most common, though polygamy is also practiced.
25. The most significant attitude that helps to enhance self identity of the individual in the community is
Solution: Respect for elders is a core cultural value in Ghana that strengthens individual identity and community bonds.
26. Which of the following fundamental human rights is protected by the 1992 constitution of Ghana? The right to
Solution: The 1992 Constitution guarantees freedom of speech as a fundamental right.
27. Which one of the following took place after the 27th April, 1960 referendum?
Solution: The 1960 referendum led to Ghana becoming a republic, and Nkrumah was inaugurated as its first President.
28. A company is expanding globally and needs to socialize employees to new cultural norms. Which of the following approaches would be most effective?
Solution: Cultural sensitivity training helps employees understand and adapt to new cultural norms effectively.
29. Controlling plastic waste has become a major environmental concern to the city authorities in Ghana. Which of the following options best helps minimize the negative impact of plastic waste disposal problem?
Solution: Banning single-use plastics directly reduces plastic waste at the source.
30. Ghana is made up of people with different cultures. What is the primary benefit if all the people unite? It will
Solution: Unity among diverse cultures fosters social cohesion, which is foundational for peace and development.
31. A farmer is preparing to plant crops next week. Why is it important for the farmer to check the weather forecast? To
Solution: Weather forecasts help farmers choose the optimal planting time to ensure crop success.
32. Which of the following scenarios, best describes an application of social security benefits?
Solution: Social security benefits provide financial support to dependents after the loss of a breadwinner.
33. You need to make a detailed map of a mountainous area. This map will be used by the people who enjoy outdoor activities and by people who manage the land. Which of the following options is the best way to make an accurate map?
Solution: Field surveys and elevation measurements ensure accuracy for mountainous terrain mapping.
34. Every Ghanaian citizen is expected to demonstrate commitment to democratic values. Which of the following actions best demonstrates the above expectation?
Solution: Voting is a fundamental democratic right and responsibility that reflects commitment to democratic values.
35. Respecting the rights of others and performing our responsibilities to the state help to promote
Solution: Responsible citizenship involves fulfilling duties and respecting others' rights.
36. One way to maintain peace and security in your community is by
Solution: Community service fosters collaboration and peacebuilding.
37. Two political events occurred in Ghana in 1960. One of the events was the presidential election. Which of the following political developments happened after the presidential election in 1960?
Solution: The 1960 election led to Ghana becoming a republic on July 1, 1960.
38. A region experiences a significant decrease in temperature and rainfall over a few decades. What factor could be the most likely cause of this?
Solution: Deforestation disrupts local climates, often leading to reduced rainfall and temperature changes.
39. A company is planning to build a soap factory in a rural area. The factory will provide jobs for the youth but may also pollute nearby rivers. Which of the following options best represents a sustainable development approach?
Solution: An environmental impact assessment ensures sustainable development by balancing economic benefits with ecological protection.
40. The best approach to help resolve the difference between political parties during general elections is
Solution: A strong judiciary ensures impartial resolution of electoral disputes, promoting fairness and stability.
1. (a) How would you explain the term Environment to your study group?
(b) In what four ways are water bodies in your community polluted?
(c) Suggest four workable ways by which water bodies in your community can be made safe for use.
Solutions for Question 1
1.(a) The term Environment refers to both the physical and social surroundings that influence life.
Physical surroundings include natural features like climate, rivers, mountains, and vegetation.
Social surroundings encompass human-made aspects such as cultural practices, political systems, and religious beliefs.
1.(b) Four ways water bodies are polluted in communities:
Industrial waste discharge: Factories release harmful chemicals into rivers.
Chemical fishing: Use of toxic substances like dynamite or pesticides to catch fish.
Oil spills: Accidental or deliberate release of oil into water bodies.
Open defecation: Human waste contaminates water sources.
Mining activities: Toxic residues from mining (e.g., mercury) seep into water.
Solid waste dumping: Plastics and garbage are thrown into rivers.
Agro-chemical runoff: Fertilizers and pesticides wash into water during farming.
Construction near water: Soil erosion and debris pollute rivers.
1.(c) Four ways to protect water bodies:
Enforce laws: Strict penalties for industrial waste dumping.
Promote sanitation: Build toilets to prevent open defecation.
Community clean-ups: Organize regular removal of solid waste.
Sustainable farming: Train farmers to reduce agro-chemical use.
Public education: Teach communities about water conservation.
Monitor mining: Regulate use of harmful chemicals like mercury.
Protect riverbanks: Plant trees to prevent erosion.
Waste treatment: Install systems to treat sewage before discharge.
2. (a) Having observed tension among the youth in your community, write to the Assemblyman four ways in which tensions could be calmed and conflicts prevented.
(b) You are a member of a debating club in your school. Prepare a presentation using four major points on how peace and security can lead to development in Ghana.
Solutions for Question 2
2.(a)
Four ways to calm tensions and prevent conflicts:
Dialogue and mediation: Organize forums for youth to express grievances and resolve disputes peacefully.
Employment opportunities: Create jobs to reduce idleness and frustration among youth.
Community policing: Collaborate with security agencies to maintain law and order.
Counselling services: Provide access to professional counsellors to address emotional and psychological issues.
Tolerance campaigns: Educate youth on respecting diverse opinions and cultures.
Inclusive governance: Involve youth in decision-making processes to foster ownership of community projects.
(Award 3 marks per well-explained point; 1 mark for mere listing. Maximum: 12 marks.)
2.(b)
How peace and security drive development in Ghana:
Economic growth: Stable environments attract investments and boost businesses.
Infrastructure development: Schools, hospitals, and roads can be built without disruption.
Human capital retention: Reduces brain drain as professionals feel safe to work locally.
Political stability: Ensures continuity of development policies and projects.
Social cohesion: Unity among citizens fosters collective progress.
(Award 2 marks per well-explained point; 1 mark for mere listing. Maximum: 8 marks.)
3. (a) Explain four ways by which national elections promote democracy in Ghana.
(b) In what four ways can citizens contribute to the development of the state?
Solutions for Question 3
3.(a)
Ways elections promote democracy:
Prevent dictatorship: Regular elections ensure leaders are accountable to the people.
Leader selection: Citizens choose representatives through fair processes.
Political competition: Parties present policies, fostering healthy debate.
Public participation: Encourages civic engagement and political education.
Peaceful transitions: Power changes hands without violence.
(Award 3 marks per well-explained point; 1 mark for mere listing. Maximum: 12 marks.)
3.(b)
Citizens’ contributions to development:
Tax compliance: Paying taxes funds public services.
Lawfulness: Obeying laws maintains order.
Volunteerism: Participating in communal labor (e.g., clean-ups).
Protecting resources: Safeguarding national assets like forests and infrastructure.
(Award 2 marks per well-explained point; 1 mark for mere listing. Maximum: 8 marks.)
Total marks for Question 3: 20 marks (12 + 8)
4. (a) Identify four challenges mostly associated with human resource development in Ghana.
(b) Explain four ways in which the government can use the tourism industry to drive development in Ghana.
Solutions for Question 4
4.(a)
Challenges in human resource development:
Brain drain: Skilled workers migrate for better opportunities abroad.
Inadequate training: Lack of modern facilities for skills development.
Poor work ethics: Corruption and laziness hinder productivity.
Unemployment: Limited jobs for trained professionals.
4.(b)Tourism as a driver of development:
Job creation: Hotels, tour guides, and artisans gain employment.
Infrastructure boost: Roads and airports improve to attract tourists.
Cultural promotion: Showcasing heritage preserves traditions.
Revenue generation: Foreign exchange from tourist spending.
5. (a) (i) Define the term Technology. (ii) Imagine you are on a trip to a village in Ghana. What four technological gadgets will you take with you? (iii) Explain how each gadget will help you.
(b) List two challenges you may encounter when using technology.
Solutions for Question 5
5.(a)(i)
Definition: Technology refers to tools, machines, and systems developed to solve problems or improve living standards.
5.(a)(ii) & (iii)
Gadgets and their uses:
Mobile phone: Communicate with family and access emergency services.
Portable power bank: Charge devices where electricity is unreliable.
Torchlight: Navigate dark paths at night.
Camera: Document experiences and share with others.
5.(b) Technology challenges:
Poor internet connectivity: Limits access to online resources.
High costs: Purchasing and maintaining gadgets can be expensive.
(Award 1 mark per point. Maximum: 2 marks.)