the passage implies that

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. The passage implies that?

A. Bridge can be learned with time and effort.
B. Bridge is only for older people
C. Playing bridge requires concentration
D. Bridge is an extremely easy game to play

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, as the passage indirectly implies that playing bridge requires concentration. This is evident when the passage discusses the custom of giving white elephants in Siam, suggesting that taking care of a white elephant was a burdensome responsibility, requiring focus and concentration. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not explicitly state that Bridge is easy, but rather mentions that it can be complicated for beginners. Choice B is incorrect as the passage does not mention age as a factor for playing Bridge.

2. What is the main idea of the passage about Toxins and Your Health?

A. Environmental toxins may have dire health effects over time.
B. Of three toxins studied, lead has the worst effect on health.
C. Toxins may accumulate in the bones of older patients.
D. Johns Hopkins University has discovered a new use for lead.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the long-term effects of environmental toxins such as lead, pesticides, and mercury on brain health, particularly as individuals age. Dr. Brian Schwartz's quote highlights the link between environmental exposure and cognitive decline, framing the entire discussion around the potential health ramifications of such exposure over time. This clearly aligns with choice A, making it the main idea of the passage.

3. What is the meaning of the word 'elasticity' in the last paragraph?

A. Something that is able to resist and be flexible
B. Something that is like plastic
C. Something that is dynamic and electrifying
D. Something that is silly

Correct answer: A

Rationale: 'Elasticity' refers to the ability of the arterial walls to resist and be flexible, which affects blood pressure. In the provided extract, it is mentioned that an increase in blood pressure can occur if the arterial walls lose some of their elasticity with age or disease. This demonstrates that elasticity refers to the property of being able to resist and be flexible, supporting choice A as the correct answer. The other choices, B, C, and D, do not accurately reflect the concept of elasticity in the context of arterial walls and blood pressure.

4. What does Macmillan's invention of the bicycle signify?

A. He made important changes in bicycle design.
B. He invented the first bicycle with pedals.
C. He developed the modern chain drive.
D. He improved the safety of bicycles.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Macmillan's invention of pedals was a significant milestone in bicycle history as it allowed for quicker and more efficient travel. The provided extract mentions that Macmillan's bicycle had foot-operated cranks like pedals, which enabled the rider to travel at a quick pace. This innovation marked a crucial development in the evolution of bicycles. While choices A, C, and D are related to advancements in bicycle design and safety, the key significance of Macmillan's invention lies in introducing pedals to bicycles, making choice B the correct answer.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'enlist' as it is used in the second paragraph?

A. call into service
B. write down
C. send away
D. put across

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context of the immune system, 'enlist' means to call into service. Immune cells recruit other cells to fight infection by producing chemicals that regulate their growth, behavior, and direct new recruits to trouble spots. This process is essential for the immune system's defense mechanism. The other choices are incorrect: 'write down' and 'put across' do not capture the action of mobilizing immune cells, and 'send away' is opposite in meaning to what is happening in the immune response.