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 the meaning of the word composed in the first paragraph?

A. To consist of
B. To break apart
C. To mix with other elements
D. To heat up

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The word 'composed' means to be made up of or to consist of something. In the provided extract, it describes how a single drop of water is composed of an oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms. Therefore, the correct answer is 'To consist of.' Choice B, 'To break apart,' is incorrect as it is the opposite of 'composed.' Choice C, 'To mix with other elements,' is incorrect as 'composed' refers to being made up of specific components, not mixed with others. Choice D, 'To heat up,' is unrelated to the meaning of 'composed' in this context.

3. What can be inferred from the passage about Daylight Savings Time?

A. It is primarily used to save energy during certain months.
B. It was universally accepted upon its introduction.
C. The US government opposed the idea initially.
D. It was implemented to prevent jetlag.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "It is primarily used to save energy during certain months." The passage clearly states that Daylight Savings Time was first put into practice by the German government in 1916 to save energy during the First World War. The US followed suit in 1918. This measure was unpopular initially, but the energy crisis in the 1970s led to making it a law. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B is incorrect as the passage mentions that the British government initially refused the idea, and it was unpopular when first implemented. Choice C is incorrect as it was not the US but the British government that opposed the idea initially. Choice D is incorrect as Daylight Savings Time was not implemented to prevent jetlag, but rather to save energy and make better use of daylight hours.

4. The information presented is:

A. Slanted in favor of newscasters
B. Slanted against people with deep voices
C. Balanced in its approach
D. Not applicable

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The information is balanced in its approach. While the extract mentions that women tend to have shriller voices, making them less desirable public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates, it does not show bias in favor of newscasters or against people with deep voices. The main focus is on the impact of voice qualities such as harshness, rather than promoting or criticizing any specific group.

5. Which is not mentioned as a possible result of being spanked in childhood?

A. Aggression
B. Coercive sex
C. Delinquency
D. Incontinence

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Incontinence.' The passage discusses the negative consequences of spanking in childhood, such as increased aggression, delinquent behavior, and future sexual problems like coercive sex. However, incontinence is not mentioned as a possible result of being spanked. Therefore, it is the correct choice. Choices A, B, and C are all supported by the passage, making them incorrect answers.