what is the authors primary purpose in writing this essay about microbes

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

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

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The author's primary purpose is to inform readers about the crucial role of microorganisms in the immune system. The essay focuses on presenting factual information and recent discoveries regarding the impact of microbes on human health. The author aims to educate the readers on the significance of microbes in human health rather than persuade them of a particular viewpoint (Choice A), entertain them with light-hearted content (Choice C), or analyze in-depth data and findings (Choice D). The essay's emphasis on informing readers about the role of microorganisms in the immune system makes 'To inform' the correct choice.

2. What conclusion can be drawn from the passage on the Amazon Rainforest?

A. The Amazon Rainforest is shrinking at a rapid pace.
B. The Amazon Rainforest is not affected by human activity.
C. The Amazon Rainforest will survive indefinitely.
D. The Amazon Rainforest has no significant impact on global warming.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct conclusion that can be drawn from the passage on the Amazon Rainforest is that it is shrinking at a rapid pace. The passage explicitly mentions the rapid deforestation and shrinking of the Amazon Rainforest due to human activities like logging and burning. This conclusion is supported by the alarming statistics provided, such as 9,169 square miles of forest being cut down in Brazil in 2003, and an area of rainforest the size of a football field being burned down every minute. This rapid destruction poses a significant threat to the survival of the Amazon Rainforest and its biodiversity. Choice B is incorrect as the passage clearly states that human activities are causing harm to the rainforest. Choice C is incorrect because the passage highlights the current dangers and threats faced by the Amazon Rainforest, indicating that its survival is at risk. Choice D is also incorrect as the passage clearly explains the significant impact of deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest on global warming due to the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

3. What is the main idea of the passage about Sickle-Cell Anemia?

A. Bone pain is a symptom of sickle-cell anemia.
B. Sickle-cell anemia affects oxygen transport in the body.
C. Sickle-cell anemia is a genetically inherited disease.
D. Sickle-cell anemia is a painful, inherited disease.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The passage focuses on describing sickle-cell anemia as a painful and inherited disease. It details how the abnormal sickle-shaped cells cause symptoms like bone pain, fever, and fatigue. While bone pain is mentioned as a symptom, it is not the main idea of the passage. Choice A is incorrect. Choice B, which mentions oxygen transport, is not the main idea but a general concept. Choice C, stating genetically inherited diseases affect thousands, is too broad and does not focus on the specifics of sickle-cell anemia. Therefore, D is the most precise choice.

4. What is the passage primarily about?

A. What we know about the Moon and its differences from Earth
B. A comparison of the Moon and Earth
C. The Moon’s effect on Earth
D. The origin of the Moon

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'What we know about the Moon and its differences from Earth.' The passage discusses various aspects of the Moon, including its origin, gravitational influence on Earth, physical characteristics, lack of atmosphere, and surface features. It provides insights into what humans know about the Moon and highlights its differences from Earth. Choice B is incorrect because while the passage does compare certain aspects of the Moon and Earth, it primarily focuses on the Moon itself rather than a direct comparison. Choice C is incorrect as the passage briefly mentions the Moon's effect on Earth in relation to tides but does not primarily focus on this aspect. Choice D is incorrect as the origin of the Moon is mentioned in the passage, but it is not the primary focus of the text.

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.