what does the author of the passage on the electoral college seem to suggest

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What does the author of the passage on the Electoral College seem to suggest?

A. The Electoral College should be abolished.
B. The Electoral College works as intended.
C. The Electoral College needs reform.
D. The Electoral College confuses voters.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The author of the passage suggests that the Electoral College works as intended. Despite acknowledging its confusing nature and the possibility of results differing from the popular vote, the author highlights that the founding fathers had a purpose behind its design. Therefore, the Electoral College is viewed as functioning as intended. Choice A is incorrect because the author does not advocate for abolishing the Electoral College. Choice C is incorrect as there is no explicit mention of the need for reform. Choice D is incorrect as the author does not focus on the confusion caused to voters but rather on the system's original purpose.

2. Which statement from the passage on Voice is a fact rather than an opinion?

A. One of the worst voice qualities is harshness.
B. Harsh voice qualities come from tension in the throat.
C. Your voice will sound unpleasant if it is shrill or grating.
D. Because tension occurs in higher-pitched voices, women tend to have shriller voices than men.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The fact that harsh voice qualities come from tension in the throat is a verifiable statement based on a scientific explanation provided in the passage. This statement is not subject to personal interpretation or judgment. Choice A is an opinion as it categorizes harshness as one of the worst voice qualities, which is subjective. Choice C is also an opinion as it describes how a voice will sound based on subjective terms like 'unpleasant.' Choice D is an opinion as it makes a generalized statement linking higher-pitched voices with shriller voices in women, which can vary widely among individuals.

3. What is the meaning of the word touted as used in the first paragraph about Aromatherapy?

A. Revealed.
B. Glorified.
C. Overcome.
D. Deceived.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: "Touted" in this passage means glorified or praised, indicating how aromatherapy has been widely promoted as beneficial. The context implies that while it is marketed positively, recent studies have called its effectiveness into question. Other choices do not capture this promotional aspect accurately, making B the best fit.

4. Which statement would not be inferred by the reader?

A. Some forms of phototherapy have been around for decades.
B. New applications of phototherapy continue to be developed.
C. Phototherapy is most often used to treat skin problems.
D. Ultraviolet rays can cause damage to eyes and skin.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. While the passage extensively discusses the benefits and applications of phototherapy, it does not mention that ultraviolet rays can cause damage to eyes and skin. This statement goes beyond the information provided in the passage and cannot be inferred. A. The passage mentions that phototherapy has been around for more than a century, supporting the statement that some forms of phototherapy have been around for decades. B. The passage discusses how new applications of phototherapy, like the phototherapy blanket, are being developed, making this statement valid as it aligns with the information provided. C. Phototherapy being most often used to treat skin problems is supported by the passage, which mentions its applications in treating acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Therefore, this statement can be inferred from the passage.

5. What is the author's primary purpose for writing the passage on the Amazon Rainforest?

A. To entertain readers with facts about the rainforest.
B. To inform readers about the deforestation of the Amazon.
C. To persuade readers to visit the Amazon Rainforest.
D. To criticize the farming practices in the Amazon.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The author's primary purpose for writing the passage on the Amazon Rainforest is to inform readers about the deforestation and environmental challenges facing the Amazon. The passage provides detailed information about the Amazon Rainforest, its biodiversity, the impact of deforestation on the environment, and the dangers associated with the destruction of the rainforest. Choice A is incorrect because the author's goal is not to entertain but to educate readers. Choice C is incorrect as there is no persuasive language used to encourage readers to visit the Amazon Rainforest. Choice D is also incorrect as the passage does not focus on criticizing farming practices but rather on highlighting the environmental threats and consequences of deforestation.