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. FRAX takes into account all of the following factors EXCEPT ___________.

A. Lifestyle choices
B. Exposure to toxins
C. Genetic heritage
D. Exposure to sunlight

Correct answer: B

Rationale: FRAX, a tool used to assess fracture risk, considers various factors like lifestyle choices, genetic heritage, and exposure to sunlight. However, exposure to toxins is not mentioned in the provided extract as a factor considered by FRAX. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Exposure to toxins is unrelated to fracture risk assessment as per the information provided. Lifestyle choices, genetic heritage, and exposure to sunlight are all factors that FRAX takes into consideration to determine the risk of experiencing a fracture within the next decade.

3. What would be the best title for this passage?

A. Being a Team in PE
B. A New Kind of Grade
C. Learning Martial Arts
D. PE for School and Life

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best title for this passage is 'PE for School and Life' as it encapsulates the broader purpose of physical education described in the extract. The passage emphasizes teaching students lifelong fitness habits, instilling lessons about maintaining good health, staying fit, and introducing exercise that can be incorporated into their lives. The focus is on fitness as a lifelong skill rather than just a short-term activity for a good grade. Choice A, 'Being a Team in PE,' is incorrect as the passage highlights individual exercise and movement rather than team-based activities. Choice B, 'A New Kind of Grade,' is also incorrect as the passage mentions a shift in grading towards effort rather than specific performance tasks. Choice C, 'Learning Martial Arts,' is too narrow as the passage discusses a variety of activities beyond martial arts that are taught in modern PE classes.

4. What does the passage about the Water Cycle explain?

A. The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation.
B. The water cycle is a continuous process of recycling water on Earth.
C. Rain is the most important part of the water cycle.
D. Evaporation is the final step in the water cycle.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation.' The passage explains the stages of the water cycle, starting with precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail) falling to the ground, followed by runoff, evaporation transforming liquid water into water vapor, and finally condensation turning water vapor back into liquid. Choice B is incorrect because it is too broad and doesn't specifically address the stages of the water cycle. Choice C is incorrect as rain is just one part of the water cycle and not the most important. Choice D is incorrect as evaporation is not the final step but one of the stages of the water cycle.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'abstain' as used in the last paragraph?

A. Dishonor
B. Go without
C. Connect to
D. Liberate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the context of the passage, 'abstain' means to refrain from or go without. The passage discusses the challenges of treating individuals with both eating disorders and substance abuse issues. It mentions that while treatment for addiction involves abstinence, it is not possible to completely abstain from food. This highlights the meaning of 'abstain' as 'go without' in this context. The other choices are incorrect: 'Dishonor' does not relate to abstain, 'Connect to' is not synonymous with abstain, and 'Liberate' does not align with the context of the passage.