what is the central idea of this passage

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Reading

1. What is the central idea of this passage?

A. It introduces certain insects that transition from water to air.
B. It describes how insects adapt to their environment.
C. It discusses the significance of insects in ecosystems.
D. It highlights the duality of insect life.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The central idea of the passage is to highlight the significance of understanding insects in ecosystems, not just focusing on their adaptability or life transitions. Choice A is incorrect as the passage does not introduce specific insects transitioning from water to air. Choice B is incorrect as the main focus is not solely on how insects adapt to their environment, but on their broader role in ecosystems. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the duality of insect life, but rather their importance in the ecosystem.

2. Which of the following evidence from the passage supports the inference that providing nap rooms at work can improve employee productivity?

A. In the recent company-wide audits, many employees have reported fatigue at work.
B. According to a 2008 study, napping for 60 minutes helped improve verbal memory, motor skills, and perceptual learning better than caffeine.
C. Many successful companies have adopted the practice of work naps, in industries like tech, manufacturing - even NASA!
D. Starting today, we will be providing a designated nap room in each office building near the gym and cafeteria to help employees take care of their bodies and minds, so they can be happier, healthier, and more productive.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the evidence from the 2008 study mentioned in the passage supports the inference that napping for 60 minutes can improve verbal memory, motor skills, and perceptual learning better than caffeine. This indicates that providing nap rooms at work can lead to improved productivity by enhancing cognitive functions. Choice A talks about the fatigue reported by employees but does not directly link it to productivity improvement. Choice C mentions that many successful companies have adopted the practice of work naps but does not specifically tie it to productivity enhancement. Choice D states the intention to provide nap rooms for employees but does not provide direct evidence of productivity improvement.

3. Which of the answer choices gives the best definition of the underlined word in the following sentence? 'Finlay flatly refused to take part in the piano recital, so his parents had to cajole him with the promise of a trip to his favorite toy store.'

A. Prevent
B. Threaten
C. Insist
D. Coax

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this context, 'cajole' means to persuade someone by using flattery or promises, which is best represented by 'coax.' 'Prevent' (choice A) means to stop something from happening, 'threaten' (choice B) means to communicate an intention to harm, and 'insist' (choice C) means to demand something forcefully, so these choices do not fit the context of persuading with flattery or promises.

4. What is the first step to take after planting potatoes?

A. Mound soil around the base of the plant.
B. Water immediately.
C. Mix fertilizer or compost into loosened soil.
D. Place potatoes 1 foot apart.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Water immediately. After planting potatoes, the first step should always be to water them immediately. This is crucial to settle the soil around the newly planted potatoes, ensuring good contact between the roots and the soil. Watering helps kickstart the growth process and provides the necessary moisture for the newly planted potatoes to establish themselves successfully. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because mounding soil, mixing fertilizer/compost, and spacing potatoes should be done before or during planting, not immediately after.

5. What is the significance of the word 'mind' in the following passage?

A. The ability to think
B. A collective vote
C. A definitive decision
D. A mythological question

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the provided passage, 'mind' refers to a definitive decision. The context indicates that the emperor made a conscious decision to entertain the speaker with country shows. Choice A, 'The ability to think,' is too broad and does not capture the specific decision-making aspect implied in the passage. Choice B, 'A collective vote,' and Choice D, 'A mythological question,' are irrelevant and do not align with the context provided.