Cross-cultural Communication In The Workplace Quiz
Step into the diverse world of Cross-Cultural Communication in the Workplace quiz with this intriguing quiz on navigating cultural differences. Communication plays a crucial role in the global business landscape, and understanding cultural nuances is essential for success. Test your knowledge with thought-provoking questions that explore the challenges and strategies of business communication across various cultures. Discover how cultural values, etiquette, and nonverbal cues shape communication styles.
This quiz will also delve into the significance of language, cultural norms, and business etiquette in different regions. Learn about effective strategies for building trust, fostering collaboration, and resolving conflicts across cultures.
Expand Read moreyour cultural intelligence and enhance your ability to communicate with colleagues, clients, and partners from diverse backgrounds.
- 1.
Which of the following statements about the global economy is most accurate?
- A.
Although the “global village” was predicted years ago, it is far from being a reality.
- B.
Although many national companies do business in foreign markets, few local companies do.
- C.
Many corporations have formed multinational alliances to help them better compete in the global economy.
- D.
Because of easy access to global information via the Internet, intercultural differences lead to few misunderstandings.
Correct Answer
C. Many corporations have formed multinational alliances to help them better compete in the global economy.Explanation
The statement that many corporations have formed multinational alliances to help them better compete in the global economy is the most accurate because it reflects the reality of globalization and the strategies that companies use to expand their reach and increase their competitiveness in international markets. This statement acknowledges the trend of corporations forming alliances or partnerships with other companies from different countries to leverage their resources and expertise, which is a common practice in the global economy.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which of the following is probably the most important factor in the rise of the global market?
- A.
As domestic markets mature, companies are increasingly looking overseas for new opportunities.
- B.
Favorable trade agreements, such as NAFTA and GATT, have been passed.
- C.
The number of middle-class consumers has grown substantially around the world.
- D.
New transportation and information technologies have been developed that make global business possible.
Correct Answer
D. New transportation and information technologies have been developed that make global business possible.Explanation
The rise of the global market can be attributed to the development of new transportation and information technologies that have made global business possible. These advancements have facilitated the movement of goods and services across borders, allowing companies to expand their operations internationally. Additionally, the ease of communication and access to information through these technologies have enabled companies to connect with customers and partners in different parts of the world, further fueling the growth of the global market.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Probably the greatest obstacle many multinational companies must overcome is
- A.
The difficulty of travelling between countries spread around the world.
- B.
Communicating with workers in different parts of the world.
- C.
The cost of building production plants in foreign countries.
- D.
The number of misunderstandings resulting from intercultural differences
Correct Answer
D. The number of misunderstandings resulting from intercultural differencesExplanation
Multinational companies face various challenges when operating in different countries, but one of the greatest obstacles is the number of misunderstandings resulting from intercultural differences. When employees from different cultural backgrounds work together, there is a higher chance of miscommunication and misinterpretation. These misunderstandings can lead to conflicts, delays, and inefficiencies in the company's operations. Therefore, multinational companies need to invest in cultural training and sensitivity to bridge these gaps and ensure effective communication and collaboration among their global workforce.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following factors has led to the globalization of markets?
- A.
The maturing of domestic markets
- B.
The passage of favorable trade agreements such as NAFTA and GATT
- C.
The explosive growth of the middle class around the world
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The globalization of markets has been led by several factors. First, the maturing of domestic markets has played a role by creating a need for companies to expand their customer base beyond their home country. Second, the passage of favorable trade agreements like NAFTA and GATT has facilitated the removal of trade barriers and encouraged international trade. Lastly, the explosive growth of the middle class globally has increased consumer demand and created new market opportunities. All of these factors have contributed to the globalization of markets.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Canadian society today can be best described as
- A.
Part of a melting pot where people from different ethnic groups blend together.
- B.
A cultural mosaic where individuals join the nation and still retain their cultural identities.
- C.
A river of cultures contributing to an ocean of turbulence.
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. A cultural mosaic where individuals join the nation and still retain their cultural identities.Explanation
The correct answer is "a cultural mosaic where individuals join the nation and still retain their cultural identities." This answer suggests that Canadian society is made up of diverse ethnic groups who come together to form a nation, while still maintaining their own cultural identities. This concept of a cultural mosaic emphasizes the importance of diversity and multiculturalism in Canadian society.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Select the MOST accurate statement.
- A.
Culture is a subject that is usually taught in elementary school.
- B.
Cultural attitudes are not learned until adulthood.
- C.
We can expect to deal well with those from another culture without having to adopt new attitudes.
- D.
Culture is shaped by attitudes learned in childhood and later internalized in adulthood.
Correct Answer
D. Culture is shaped by attitudes learned in childhood and later internalized in adulthood.Explanation
Culture is shaped by attitudes learned in childhood and later internalized in adulthood. This statement suggests that cultural attitudes are not learned until adulthood. It implies that culture is not something that is only taught in elementary school, but rather a complex concept that is influenced by the attitudes individuals acquire during their formative years and continue to develop throughout their lives. This explanation aligns with the understanding that culture is a dynamic and evolving aspect of human society.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Select the MOST accurate statement.
- A.
Cultures almost never change.
- B.
Advancements in technology and communication can cause the culture to change.
- C.
Attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs change more quickly in closed societies than in open societies.
- D.
Only outward actions and symbols define a culture.
Correct Answer
B. Advancements in technology and communication can cause the culture to change.Explanation
This statement suggests that advancements in technology and communication have the potential to bring about cultural change. It implies that the introduction of new technologies and improved communication methods can influence the attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs of a society, leading to cultural shifts. This explanation aligns with the idea that culture is not static and can evolve over time due to external factors such as technological advancements.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which of the following is NOT a visible sign of culture?
- A.
Penny waits patiently in line behind ten others at the bank.
- B.
A downtown office building has no 13th floor.
- C.
Sylvia is careful not to step on the cracks in the sidewalk as she walks down the street.
- D.
Kyle plants vegetables in the garden as early as possible in the spring in order to enjoy as long a growing season as possible.
Correct Answer
D. Kyle plants vegetables in the garden as early as possible in the spring in order to enjoy as long a growing season as possible.Explanation
The other options provided in the question are all examples of visible signs of culture. Waiting patiently in line at the bank, avoiding the number 13 in building floors, and avoiding stepping on cracks in the sidewalk are all observable behaviors that can be attributed to cultural norms or beliefs. However, Kyle's behavior of planting vegetables early in the spring is not necessarily a visible sign of culture. It could simply be a personal preference or gardening strategy.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following is NOT a visible sign of culture?
- A.
The employees of the accounting department take their boss out to lunch to celebrate his birthday.
- B.
Bonnie believes that adults need to be responsible for their actions.
- C.
On Friday the 13th, Fred is especially careful in handling the glass bottles as he loads them on the conveyor belt.
- D.
At dinner each evening, Father sits at the head of the table.
Correct Answer
B. Bonnie believes that adults need to be responsible for their actions.Explanation
The given answer is correct because it does not represent a visible sign of culture. The other options in the question all involve observable actions or behaviors that can be associated with a particular culture. However, Bonnie's belief about adults being responsible for their actions is a personal belief or value, rather than a visible sign of culture.Rate this question:
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- 10.
A generalization that is NOT fixed and rigid when it is used to describe cultures is called a
- A.
Stereotype.
- B.
Prejudice.
- C.
Prototype.
- D.
None of the above.
Correct Answer
C. Prototype.Explanation
A generalization that is NOT fixed and rigid when it is used to describe cultures is called a prototype. A prototype is a preliminary model or version of something that is subject to change or modification. In the context of describing cultures, a prototype generalization implies that it is not a fixed or rigid belief but rather a flexible and adaptable understanding of a culture. Stereotype and prejudice, on the other hand, refer to fixed and rigid beliefs or attitudes towards a particular group or culture.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Communicators are high-context cultures.
- A.
Depend on the context of a situation to help convey their meaning.
- B.
Assume that listeners know very little and must be told practically everything.
- C.
Tend to be logical, analytical, and action-oriented.
- D.
Are likely to take words literally.
Correct Answer
A. Depend on the context of a situation to help convey their meaning.Explanation
High-context cultures depend on the context of a situation to help convey their meaning. In these cultures, communication is often indirect and relies heavily on nonverbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice. People from high-context cultures assume that others understand the underlying meaning without explicitly stating it. They may use subtle hints or rely on shared experiences and background knowledge to convey their message effectively. This approach to communication can be seen in cultures such as Japan, China, and many Middle Eastern countries.Rate this question:
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- 12.
An example of a country that has a low-context culture is
- A.
Germany.
- B.
China
- C.
Japan
- D.
Saudi Arabia
Correct Answer
A. Germany.Explanation
Germany is considered an example of a country with a low-context culture because it relies heavily on explicit communication. In low-context cultures, communication is direct, explicit, and relies on clear and concise messages. German culture values efficiency, punctuality, and precision, which are reflected in their communication style. This is in contrast to high-context cultures, such as China, Japan, and Saudi Arabia, where communication is more indirect, relies on nonverbal cues, and is deeply rooted in the context and relationship between individuals.Rate this question:
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- 13.
By tradition, North American business people typically do NOT place a high value on
- A.
Directness.
- B.
Individualism.
- C.
Group decision-making.
- D.
Informality.
Correct Answer
C. Group decision-making.Explanation
North American business people typically do not place a high value on group decision-making. This is because they tend to prioritize individualism and directness in their business practices. They value personal accountability and prefer making decisions independently rather than relying on group consensus. Informality may also be valued in certain situations, but it is not as significant as individualism and directness in North American business culture. Therefore, group decision-making is not highly valued in this context.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Receiving a business card from a visitor, a businessperson stuffs it in his pocket with hardly a glance. The visitor might be particularly offended if he is from which country?
- A.
USA
- B.
Japan
- C.
Canada
- D.
Germany
Correct Answer
B. JapanExplanation
In Japan, the exchange of business cards is considered a formal and important part of business etiquette. It is customary to carefully examine the card, read the person's name and title, and show respect by treating it with care. Stuffing a business card in the pocket without even looking at it would be seen as rude and disrespectful in Japanese culture. Therefore, the visitor from Japan would be particularly offended by this action.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following are most likely to take words literally?
- A.
Canadians
- B.
Mexicans
- C.
Arabs
- D.
Japanese
Correct Answer
A. CanadiansExplanation
Canadians are most likely to take words literally because they have a reputation for being polite and straightforward in their communication style. They value clear and direct communication, and often expect others to do the same. This cultural trait may lead them to interpret words in their literal meaning without much room for interpretation or figurative understanding.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which of the following statements is INACCURATE?
- A.
Asian businesspeople have learned to use silence for reflection and contemplation.
- B.
Asians are concerned with harmony and saving face.
- C.
Mexicans often socialize before getting down to business.
- D.
North Americans, Mexicans, and Asians all equate time with money.
Correct Answer
D. North Americans, Mexicans, and Asians all equate time with money.Explanation
This statement is inaccurate because it generalizes the belief that North Americans, Mexicans, and Asians all equate time with money. While it may be true for some individuals within these cultures, it is not a universal belief. Different cultures have different perspectives on the value of time and its relationship to money.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Because he has been taught that a person must work hard to succeed, Sean expects his Australian co-workers to share his belief. Sean's misconception is the result of
- A.
Tolerance.
- B.
Stereotyping.
- C.
Ethnorelativism.
- D.
Ethnocentrism.
Correct Answer
D. Ethnocentrism.Explanation
Sean's misconception is the result of ethnocentrism. Ethnocentrism refers to the belief that one's own cultural group is superior to others, leading to the assumption that others should share the same beliefs and values. In this case, Sean's belief that hard work is necessary for success is based on his own cultural upbringing, and he expects his Australian co-workers to have the same mindset. This demonstrates a lack of understanding and acceptance of cultural differences, which is characteristic of ethnocentrism.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following may cause us to judge others by our own values?
- A.
Tolerance
- B.
Ethnorelativism
- C.
Ethnocentrism
- D.
Stereotyping
Correct Answer
C. EthnocentrismExplanation
Ethnocentrism refers to the tendency to judge other cultures or groups based on one's own cultural values and beliefs. It involves believing that one's own culture is superior and using it as a standard to evaluate others. This can lead to biases, misunderstandings, and unfair judgments when interacting with individuals from different cultures. Tolerance, ethnorelativism, and stereotyping do not necessarily involve judging others based on one's own values, making them incorrect choices for this question.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of the following statements is INACCURATE?
- A.
Rely solely on stereotypes to understand other cultures.
- B.
Develop tolerance of other cultures.
- C.
Develop an understanding of your own culture.
- D.
Avoid ethnocentrism.
Correct Answer
A. Rely solely on stereotypes to understand other cultures.Explanation
Relying solely on stereotypes to understand other cultures is inaccurate because stereotypes are oversimplified and often biased generalizations about a particular group of people. To truly understand other cultures, it is important to go beyond stereotypes and delve deeper into their history, customs, traditions, and values. This allows for a more accurate and nuanced understanding of different cultures.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Improving one's tolerance of other cultures requires
- A.
Practicing yoga.
- B.
Practicing empathy.
- C.
Saving face.
- D.
Relying on stereotypes.
Correct Answer
B. Practicing empathy.Explanation
Improving one's tolerance of other cultures requires practicing empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, which is essential for developing tolerance towards different cultures. By practicing empathy, individuals can put themselves in the shoes of others and gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives, beliefs, and values. This can help break down barriers, foster mutual respect, and promote cultural understanding and acceptance.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Cultures that are concerned with preserving social harmony and go to great lengths to avoid giving offense by saying NO.
- A.
Are usually concerned with saving face.
- B.
Tend to be straightforward.
- C.
Value independence and freedom from control.
- D.
Usually, place less emphasis on tradition, ceremony, and social rules.
Correct Answer
A. Are usually concerned with saving face.Explanation
Cultures that are concerned with preserving social harmony and go to great lengths to avoid giving offense by saying NO are usually concerned with saving face. In these cultures, maintaining positive relationships and avoiding conflict is highly valued. Saying no directly can be seen as impolite or confrontational, so people in these cultures often find alternative ways to express disagreement or decline requests without causing offense. By doing so, they are able to preserve their own and others' reputation and maintain social harmony.Rate this question:
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- 22.
To communicate orally with people from other cultures,
- A.
Encourage the listener to paraphrase what’s being said.
- B.
Always learn to speak that person’s language fluently.
- C.
Speak slowly and raise your voice.
- D.
All of the above.
Correct Answer
A. Encourage the listener to paraphrase what’s being said.Explanation
When communicating orally with people from other cultures, it is important to encourage the listener to paraphrase what's being said. This helps ensure that both parties understand each other correctly and can clarify any misunderstandings. Learning to speak the person's language fluently is not always feasible or necessary, and speaking slowly and raising your voice may not be effective or respectful communication strategies. Therefore, the best approach is to encourage the listener to paraphrase what's being said.Rate this question:
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- 23.
In conversation with a Chinese businessperson who speaks English fairly well, Jeffrey discovers that most of what he has just said was not understood by the Chinese. In continuing the conversation, Jeffrey should
- A.
Speak more slowly and loudly.
- B.
Discontinue the conversation until an interpreter can be found.
- C.
Repeat the conversation but use more facial expressions and gestures to communicate more clearly.
- D.
Accept blame for the misunderstanding and use simpler language.
Correct Answer
D. Accept blame for the misunderstanding and use simpler language.Explanation
Jeffrey should accept blame for the misunderstanding and use simpler language. This is because if most of what Jeffrey said was not understood by the Chinese businessperson, it indicates a communication problem on Jeffrey's part. By accepting blame, Jeffrey takes responsibility for the misunderstanding and acknowledges the need to adjust his approach. Using simpler language can help bridge the language barrier and improve understanding.Rate this question:
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- 24.
In speaking with someone who has limited English skills, a wise business communicator should NOT
- A.
Help the faltering speaker who is searching for the best word by finishing his or her sentences.
- B.
Speak slowly and over-punctuate with pauses and full stops.
- C.
Check frequently for comprehension by asking probing questions.
- D.
Be alert to a glazed expression or wandering eyes.
Correct Answer
A. Help the faltering speaker who is searching for the best word by finishing his or her sentences.Explanation
A wise business communicator should not help the faltering speaker who is searching for the best word by finishing his or her sentences. This is because it can be seen as disrespectful and may undermine the speaker's confidence. It is important to give the person an opportunity to express themselves and find the right words on their own.Rate this question:
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- 25.
When writing letters to businesspeople in other cultures,
- A.
Use two-word verbs such as bring back rather than return.
- B.
Spell out all numbers.
- C.
Use short sentences and short paragraphs.
- D.
Add humor to your messages.
Correct Answer
C. Use short sentences and short paragraphs.Explanation
When writing letters to businesspeople in other cultures, it is important to use short sentences and short paragraphs. This is because communication across cultures can be challenging, and using shorter sentences and paragraphs makes the message easier to understand and avoids confusion. Additionally, shorter sentences and paragraphs are more likely to hold the reader's attention and keep them engaged with the content of the letter.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of the following would be the BEST choice for a letter going to someone from another cultures?
- A.
I’d like to place an order but can’t do it now.
- B.
Please send the order to me ASAP.
- C.
A ballpark figure of around $500 should give you an idea of costs.
- D.
Thank you for telling me about your products.
Correct Answer
D. Thank you for telling me about your products.Explanation
The given answer, "Thank you for telling me about your products," would be the best choice for a letter going to someone from another culture because it is a polite and appreciative response. It shows respect and gratitude towards the person who provided information about the products. This response is more culturally sensitive and avoids any direct requests or assumptions about ordering or costs, which may vary in different cultures.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which of the following would be the BEST choice for a letter going to someone from another culture?
- A.
We appreciate your business.
- B.
Your decision is right on the money.
- C.
You’re invited to attend the meeting that’s being held next week.
- D.
Lower sales this year have hurt the bottom line.
Correct Answer
A. We appreciate your business.Explanation
The best choice for a letter going to someone from another culture would be "We appreciate your business." This is a neutral and polite statement that shows gratitude towards the recipient. It does not make assumptions about the recipient's decision, invite them to a specific event, or mention negative sales figures, which could potentially be culturally insensitive or irrelevant to the recipient.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Select the MOST accurate statement,
- A.
Begin most foreign correspondence with a humorous statement or joke.
- B.
Use the direct pattern for all foreign correspondence.
- C.
Use our standard directness and informality when writing to someone from another country, even if letters in the receiver’s country are generally formal and use a flowery tone.
- D.
Strive to accommodate your reader in organization, tone, and style.
Correct Answer
D. Strive to accommodate your reader in organization, tone, and style.Explanation
The most accurate statement is to strive to accommodate your reader in organization, tone, and style. This means that when writing foreign correspondence, it is important to consider the preferences and expectations of the reader and adjust the organization, tone, and style of the letter accordingly. This ensures effective communication and shows respect for the recipient's cultural norms and communication style.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The workforce of the future will
- A.
Be predominantly Anglo-oriented and male.
- B.
Include mostly minorities.
- C.
Be increasingly made up of women, minorities, and individuals over 55 years of age.
- D.
All of the above.
Correct Answer
C. Be increasingly made up of women, minorities, and individuals over 55 years of age.Explanation
The correct answer is "be increasingly made up of women, minorities, and individuals over 55 years of age." This answer suggests that the workforce of the future will become more diverse and inclusive, with a greater representation of women, minorities, and older individuals. This aligns with the trend of organizations recognizing the value of diversity and the benefits it brings in terms of different perspectives, skills, and experiences.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which of the following statements most accurately describes diversity in the workplace?
- A.
When companies begin developing teams, employees automatically work well together showing less divisiveness, discontent, and clashes.
- B.
Companies that look upon diversity as an opportunity are more likely to achieve conformity in employee behaviour.
- C.
Homogeneous teams work better together and contribute the most creative solutions to problems.
- D.
Developing a diverse staff that can work together cooperatively is one of the biggest challenges facing business organizations today.
Correct Answer
D. Developing a diverse staff that can work together cooperatively is one of the biggest challenges facing business organizations today.Explanation
The correct answer states that developing a diverse staff that can work together cooperatively is one of the biggest challenges facing business organizations today. This suggests that diversity in the workplace is not automatically achieved and requires effort and cooperation. It implies that diversity does not necessarily lead to conformity in employee behavior, and homogeneous teams may not necessarily be more effective or creative.Rate this question:
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- 31.
To improve communication among diverse workplace audiences,
- A.
Rely on stereotypes to learn about individuals from different cultures.
- B.
Concentrate on shared experiences, mutual goals, and similar values.
- C.
Encourage individuals to conform to the company’s culture.
- D.
Assume that all individuals share the same holidays and lifestyles.
Correct Answer
B. Concentrate on shared experiences, mutual goals, and similar values.Explanation
The correct answer is to concentrate on shared experiences, mutual goals, and similar values. This approach promotes understanding and collaboration among diverse workplace audiences by focusing on common ground rather than relying on stereotypes, expecting conformity, or assuming homogeneity. By emphasizing shared experiences, mutual goals, and similar values, communication can be improved, fostering a more inclusive and respectful work environment.Rate this question:
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Aug 23, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 18, 2009Quiz Created by
Sarahbee
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