what is the main idea of the passage about microbes

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What is the main idea of the passage about microbes?

A. Recent discoveries are revealing the critical role of microorganisms in maintaining a properly functioning immune system.
B. The human body is host to a staggering number of microorganisms.
C. Bacteriotherapy reintroduces healthy bacteria into a colon lacking the capability to defend against pathogenic agents.
D. Early research has shown remarkable discoveries in the possibilities of bacteriotherapy.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that recent discoveries are shedding light on the pivotal role of microorganisms in maintaining a properly functioning immune system. The passage discusses how the human body hosts a wide array of microorganisms, emphasizes the importance of these bacteria in the development of the immune system, and explores the potential applications of bacteriotherapy. Choice A is the correct answer because it accurately reflects the central theme discussed in the passage. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they focus on specific details or applications mentioned in the passage, rather than capturing the overarching theme of the critical role of microorganisms in immune system function.

2. Which of the following statements is an opinion?

A. The connection between sleep and weight should be explored.
B. Many young children average only eight hours of sleep a night.
C. People who sleep less are more likely to be obese.
D. Researchers in New Zealand studied almost 600 children.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The statement that the connection between sleep and weight should be explored reflects a personal viewpoint rather than an objective fact. It indicates a belief that further research is warranted to understand this relationship better, making it an opinion and distinguishing it from the other factual statements presented in the passage.

3. What can the reader infer about the 'sweatiest students' referred to in the last sentence in the passage?

A. These students are more physically active than others.
B. These students have worked harder during class.
C. These students do not necessarily perform better academically.
D. These students excel in all sports activities.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The reader can infer that the 'sweatiest students' have worked harder during class. This inference is supported by the context that students are graded based on the effort they make in the class, with some even receiving extra credit for being the sweatiest students in the room. Choice A is incorrect as there is no indication in the passage that the sweatiest students are more physically active than others; they are recognized for their effort, not necessarily for being the most active. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the academic performance of the sweatiest students. Choice D is incorrect as there is no evidence to suggest that the sweatiest students excel in all sports activities; they are acknowledged for their effort rather than their overall sports performance.

4. In this passage, which of the following is not mentioned as a role of HGH in the human body?

A. Regulating the metabolism.
B. Stimulating the immune system.
C. Regulating leptin, an appetite-controlling hormone.
D. Facilitating calcium retention.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Regulating leptin, an appetite-controlling hormone. In the provided passage, it is stated that human growth hormone (HGH) is essential for regulating metabolism, building muscle, facilitating calcium retention, and stimulating the immune system. However, leptin is not mentioned as directly regulated by HGH. Instead, the passage discusses how inadequate sleep can lead to lowered levels of leptin, affecting appetite control. Choices A, B, and D are all roles of HGH explicitly mentioned in the passage, making them incorrect answers. Therefore, C is the correct choice as it was not directly linked to HGH in the passage.

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.