what can the reader infer about the sweatiest students referred to in the last sentence in the passage

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What can the reader infer about the 'sweatiest students' referred to in the last sentence in the passage?

A. These students are more physically active than others.
B. These students have worked harder during class.
C. These students do not necessarily perform better academically.
D. These students excel in all sports activities.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The reader can infer that the 'sweatiest students' have worked harder during class. This inference is supported by the context that students are graded based on the effort they make in the class, with some even receiving extra credit for being the sweatiest students in the room. Choice A is incorrect as there is no indication in the passage that the sweatiest students are more physically active than others; they are recognized for their effort, not necessarily for being the most active. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the academic performance of the sweatiest students. Choice D is incorrect as there is no evidence to suggest that the sweatiest students excel in all sports activities; they are acknowledged for their effort rather than their overall sports performance.

2. What is the author’s primary purpose in writing the essay about Sunny-Side Up?

A. To persuade.
B. To reflect.
C. To entertain.
D. To inform.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The author's primary purpose is to inform readers about the benefits of sunlight, including its role in vitamin D synthesis and other health benefits. While the passage does advocate for sunlight exposure, the primary aim is to provide information rather than persuade or entertain, making D the most accurate choice.

3. Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?

A. It is a good gift to give at the party
B. Gifts are never unwanted
C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.

4. Why was receiving a white elephant considered a burden in ancient Siam?

A. People tried to avoid receiving it, as it was a burden.
B. It was a symbol of honor and wealth.
C. It was used in ceremonial processes.
D. The people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Receiving a white elephant in ancient Siam was considered a burden because the animal, being sacred, couldn't be used for work like other elephants. The recipient had to bear the cost of feeding the elephant large amounts of fruit and maintaining it in a lavish manner. The ruler's displeasure if the gift was not accepted graciously added to the pressure. This financial strain often led recipients to financial ruin. Therefore, people tried to avoid receiving a white elephant to prevent these financial consequences. Choice B is incorrect because the white elephant was not considered a symbol of honor and wealth but rather a burden. Choice C is incorrect as the white elephant was not primarily used in ceremonial processes but was a gift that came with financial responsibilities. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not mention that people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift, but rather the opposite.

5. What is the meaning of the word moderation as used in the second paragraph?

A. Adequate amounts
B. Intervals of time
C. Excess
D. Variation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, moderation means consuming adequate amounts of unsaturated fats. The passage highlights that unsaturated fats like olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial when consumed in appropriate quantities. Choice B, intervals of time, is incorrect as it does not relate to the consumption of fats. Choice C, excess, is incorrect because moderation implies avoiding excess consumption. Choice D, variation, is unrelated to the context of consuming fats in appropriate amounts.