Functions of the State - Leben in Deutschland Test

State functions and responsibilities

Module: Life in Democracy

Number of Questions: 4

All questions in this category:

1. Question 46: The German state has many tasks. Which task is one of them?

   Answer Options:

   1. A) it builds roads and schools ✓ (Correct Answer)
   2. B) it sells food and clothing
   3. C) it provides all residents with free newspapers
   4. D) it produces cars and buses

   Explanation:

   The German state is responsible for providing essential public infrastructure and services that benefit all citizens. Building roads and schools falls under this core responsibility, as these are fundamental to a functioning society and economy, as outlined in the principles of a social welfare state. Option B, selling food and clothing, is not a primary function of the state; these are typically provided by the private market. Option C, providing newspapers to all residents for free, is an unrealistic and unsustainable service that the state does not undertake. Option D, producing cars and buses, is an industrial activity best left to private companies, not a core governmental duty.

   Study Tip:

   The state builds roads and schools for everyone.

2. Question 47: The German state has many tasks. Which task is not one of them?

   Answer Options:

   1. A) it pays for vacation trips for all citizens ✓ (Correct Answer)
   2. B) it pays child benefits
   3. C) it supports museums
   4. D) it promotes athletes

   Explanation:

   The German state's primary role is to ensure the well-being and development of its citizens and society. This includes providing social support and fostering cultural and athletic endeavors, as outlined in principles of social welfare and cultural promotion within the Basic Law. Option A is incorrect because providing paid vacation for all citizens is not a legal obligation or a recognized function of the German state. Option B, paying child benefit (Kindergeld), is a direct form of social support designed to assist families with the costs of raising children, aligning with the state's responsibility for family welfare. Option C, supporting museums, falls under the state's duty to promote culture and education, enriching public life and preserving heritage. Option D, promoting athletes, is also a legitimate state function aimed at fostering national talent, health, and international representation in sports. Therefore, only the provision of paid holidays for all citizens lies outside the scope of state responsibilities.

   Study Tip:

   The German state supports its citizens and society, but not with paid vacations for everyone.

3. Question 68: Why does the state in Germany control the school system?

   Answer Options:

   1. A) Because there are only state schools in Germany
   2. B) Because all students must have a school leaving certificate
   3. C) Because there are different schools in the federal states
   4. D) Because it is its task according to the Basic Law ✓ (Correct Answer)

   Explanation:

   The correct answer is D because Article 7 of the German Basic Law (Grundgesetz) designates the state's responsibility for the entire school system. This means the state has a constitutional duty to ensure education is provided and regulated. Option A is incorrect because Germany has a variety of school types, including private schools, which are also subject to state oversight. Option B is not the primary reason for state control; while a school leaving certificate is important, the state's role is more fundamental to the structure and quality of education itself. Option C is also not the core justification; the existence of different schools across the federal states is a consequence of the federal system, not the reason for state control.

   Study Tip:

   The state controls the school system because it's its job according to the Basic Law.

4. Question 77: What is the Bundeswehr?

   Answer Options:

   1. A) The German police
   2. B) A German port
   3. C) A German citizens' initiative
   4. D) The German army ✓ (Correct Answer)

   Explanation:

   The correct answer is "die deutsche Armee" because the Bundeswehr is explicitly defined as the armed forces of the Federal Republic of Germany, responsible for national defense. This aligns with the constitutional mandate to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Germany. Option A, "die deutsche Polizei," is incorrect as the police are responsible for domestic law enforcement and public order, a distinct function from national defense. Option B, "ein deutscher Hafen," refers to a port and has no relation to military or defense structures. Option C, "eine deutsche Bürgerinitiative," describes a citizen-led group advocating for a specific cause, which is entirely separate from the state's military organization. Therefore, only "die deutsche Armee" accurately describes the role and nature of the Bundeswehr.

   Study Tip:

   Bundeswehr = Armed Forces = Army