what is the authors primary purpose in writing the essay about concussions

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the author’s primary purpose in writing the essay about Concussions?

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The primary purpose of the essay is to inform the reader about concussions, their effects, and recovery. While analysis may be involved in the presentation, the overarching goal is to provide information, making A the most accurate answer.

2. What is the meaning of the word serendipity as it is used in the first paragraph?

A. Chance
B. Persistence
C. Foreboding
D. Expertise

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The word "serendipity" refers to a fortunate coincidence or chance, describing how Beto Pérez invented Zumba accidentally.

3. What conclusion can you draw from the first sentence of the passage?

A. Osteoporosis is more common than anyone previously imagined.
B. The media give a lot of overall coverage to osteoporosis.
C. Only women are at high risk for developing bone thinning.
D. Thinning bones is not considered a serious medical problem.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The first sentence suggests that osteoporosis receives significant media coverage, indicating that the media gives a lot of overall coverage to the issue. This conclusion can be drawn as the passage mentions how osteoporosis is a major health concern for women and is widely covered in newspapers and television commercials. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not mention the prevalence of osteoporosis compared to previous estimates. Choice C is incorrect as the passage highlights that men are being overlooked in terms of bone thinning concerns. Choice D is incorrect as the passage emphasizes the seriousness of bone thinning and the need for preventive measures.

4. What is the meaning of the word conform as used in the first paragraph?

A. Authorize
B. Fit in
C. Hand over
D. Bewilder

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, "conform" means to fit in with societal norms or standards, particularly those related to beauty. The passage describes how individuals may compromise their health to meet these cultural ideals, indicating that conformity relates to adhering to social expectations of beauty, making option B the correct interpretation.

5. Which of the following is a conclusion that a reader can draw from this passage?

A. Humans are not the only mammals that exhibit symptoms when infected by Borrelia burgdorferi.
B. The life cycle of an uninfected tick includes a dormant phase before the nymph stage, which is not excluded.
C. Unless a tick feeds on an infected mouse or squirrel, it will not spread Lyme disease.
D. The combination of fever, headache, and joint pain is not a definite indication of Lyme disease.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage clearly states that for Lyme disease to spread, a tick must feed on an infected host, such as a mouse or squirrel. This conclusion can be drawn from the information provided in the extract. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not specify that humans are the only mammals that exhibit symptoms when infected by Borrelia burgdorferi. Choice B is incorrect as the passage mentions that the life cycle of an uninfected tick includes a dormant phase before the nymph stage, without excluding it. Choice D is incorrect because the passage does not state that the combination of fever, headache, and joint pain is a definitive sign of Lyme disease.