HESI A2
HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test
1. What is the author's main argument in the passage on the Electoral College?
- A. The Electoral College ensures that all states have a say in elections.
- B. The Electoral College is outdated and needs reform.
- C. The Electoral College should be abolished.
- D. The Electoral College was created to favor larger states.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The Electoral College is outdated and needs reform.' The passage discusses the Electoral College system, highlighting its complexities and the discrepancy between the popular vote and electoral vote outcomes. It mentions the confusion and the case of the 2000 election where the popular vote winner did not become president. The main argument is that the system is outdated and requires reforms to align with modern democratic principles. Choice A is incorrect as the passage does not focus on ensuring all states have a say but rather on the need for reform. Choice C is not the main argument presented in the passage; while the passage mentions confusion, it does not explicitly call for abolition. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not state that the Electoral College was created to favor larger states; instead, it discusses the allocation of electoral votes based on Congressional representation and population.
2. What is the meaning of the word "pulses" as it appears in the first paragraph?
- A. The regular throbbing of the arteries caused by successive contractions of the heart
- B. The general attitude of the public or a specific population toward health concerns
- C. The edible seeds produced by legumes such as peas, beans, or lentils
- D. Any type of food with animal origins such as butter, honey, or eggs
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the context of the passage, "pulses" refers to the edible seeds produced by legumes.
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. What is the meaning of the word diminished as used in the passage about Concussions?
- A. Miniature.
- B. Reduced.
- C. Recurrent.
- D. Hollow.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In this context, "diminished" means reduced. Substituting the other choices into the sentence does not make sense contextually, whereas "reduced" fits appropriately, confirming B as the correct answer.
5. Which of the following would be the best title for this passage?
- A. Bicycles are better.
- B. A ride through the history of bicycles.
- C. Cycle your way to fitness.
- D. The popularity of bicycles.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The best title for this passage would be 'A ride through the history of bicycles' as it provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of bicycles from their invention to modern times. Choice A, 'Bicycles are better,' is incorrect as it does not capture the essence of the passage, which focuses on the history and evolution of bicycles rather than their superiority. Choice C, 'Cycle your way to fitness,' is misleading as the passage does not primarily discuss the fitness aspect of cycling but instead focuses on the evolution of bicycle design. Choice D, 'The popularity of bicycles,' is too narrow as it only touches on one aspect mentioned briefly in the passage, while the passage covers a broader historical perspective.
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