the word lethargy as used in the second paragraph of the passage can best be defined as

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension

1. The word lethargy as used in the second paragraph of the passage can best be defined as ___________.

A. Sluggishness
B. Irritability
C. Energy
D. Starvation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'lethargy' refers to a state of sluggishness or lack of energy. The passage mentions that people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) struggle with lethargy and chronic fatigue, impairing their daily lives. Therefore, the correct definition of 'lethargy' in this context is 'sluggishness.' Choice B, 'Irritability,' is incorrect as lethargy refers more to a lack of energy than to being irritable. Choice C, 'Energy,' is the opposite of lethargy. Choice D, 'Starvation,' is unrelated to the definition of lethargy in this context.

2. What is implied about the rainforest's role in global climate?

A. The rainforest has little impact on the climate.
B. The rainforest plays a crucial role in regulating the climate.
C. The rainforest is mainly important for biodiversity.
D. The rainforest's destruction has no global consequences.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The rainforest plays a crucial role in regulating the global climate by absorbing carbon dioxide. The extract highlights the fact that trees take in carbon dioxide and give off oxygen. When trees are cut down, the amount of carbon dioxide increases, contributing to global warming. This emphasizes the significant impact of rainforests on the climate. Choice A is incorrect as the extract clearly states the importance of rainforests in absorbing carbon dioxide. Choice C, while true, is not directly related to the implied role of rainforests in regulating the climate. Choice D is also incorrect as the destruction of rainforests does have global consequences, such as contributing to global warming.

3. Which might be a good title for this passage?

A. “Everyone Should Run Barefoot”
B. “How to Prevent Running Injuries”
C. “Modern Road Surfaces Versus Barefoot Running”
D. “The Debate over Barefoot Running”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The title "The Debate over Barefoot Running" encapsulates the central theme of the passage, which explores both the advantages and disadvantages of barefoot running. It effectively summarizes the discussions around differing opinions and the lack of consensus on this topic. Other titles do not accurately reflect the primary focus of the essay, making D the most suitable choice.

4. Which of the following is not listed as a detail in the passage about Concussions?

A. Football and lacrosse players suffer the most concussions.
B. More than a million Americans a year suffer concussions.
C. Concussions may result in diminished alertness.
D. It may take longer to recover from a second concussion.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Skim the passage to identify the detail that does not appear. The sports in choice A are never mentioned, so you do not even need to look at the other choices.

5. What is the author’s attitude toward the use of cosmetics?

A. Sympathetic
B. Mocking
C. Tolerant
D. Disapproving

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The author’s tone is disapproving, as evidenced by the focus on the negative consequences of using cosmetics with harmful ingredients. The passage discusses historical and contemporary health issues related to beauty practices, indicating a critical stance on the use of cosmetics that compromise health, which supports option D.