MCAS SAMPLE QUESTIONS
Name ______________________________
1) Many common hand tools create a mechanical advantage by using the basic principles found in simple machines. For example, a screwdriver uses the principles of the wheel and axle. In order to increase the gripping force, pliers use the principle demonstrated in the
a) pulley
b) lever
c) wedge
d) screw
2) Recently the telephone company announced the implementation of a new telephone area code for Massachusetts. What technological change is responsible for this change?
a) Increased size of the telephone book
b) Increase in the number of modems, fax machines and cell phones
c) Increase in speed dialing and call waiting
d) Increase in telephone repairs and installations
3) Frame construction predominates in New England due to the abundance of
a) Clay
b) Masonry
c) Wood
d) Steel
4) A manufacturing industry has asked to relocate its plant to Ashburnham. From an environmental perspective, which question is least important to ask before deciding whether the industry may move to our town?
a) How the plant will affect wildlife
b) What kinds of pollution the plant will produce
c) What impact the plant will have on the population of the town
d) What are the uses of the products that the plant will produce
5) Design a backpack to be used for a 3 day hike in the Berkshire Mountains.
a) Describe 3 physical properties that the material used to construct the backpack must have.
b) Why are these properties important?
c) Generate a sketch of the backpack and label its components.
6) Which best describes construction technology?
a) Exchange information electronically
b) Change raw materials into goods
c) Build and finish a structure
d) Convert and transmit energy
7) The engine of a car is part of the
a) Structure
b) Propulsion
c) Guidance
d) Control
8) Which is part of the control system of the car?
a) Tires
b) Brakes
c) Radiator
d) Engine
9) The bottom of the space shuttle is covered with ceramic tile. This material was chosen because it withstands
a) Moisture
b) Heat
c) Vibration
d) Light
10)Which best illustrates the sequence of steps that should be followed when solving technological problems?
a) Identify the problem, evaluate the solution, explore possible solutions and select a solution
b) Identify the problem, explore possibilities, select a solution and evaluate the solution
c) Identify the problem, select a solution, explore possible solutions and evaluate the solution
d) Identify the problem, evaluate the solution, select a solution and explore possible solutions