what is the main idea of the passage about super foods

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the main idea of the passage about Super Foods?

A. Super foods are low in calories but provide essential nutrients that have enormous health benefits.
B. U.S. supermarkets should make a point of stocking up on powerful super foods.
C. Blueberries are a super food that contains a natural inflammatory as well as important vitamins and minerals.
D. Doctors now believe that daily inclusion of super foods in the diet can reverse the aging process.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main idea emphasizes that superfoods are low in calories yet rich in essential nutrients that provide significant health benefits. This statement captures the overall essence of the passage, while the other options focus too narrowly or introduce unsupported claims, making A the correct answer.

2. Identify the overall tone of the essay

A. Earnest
B. Negative
C. Self-satisfied
D. Skeptical

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The tone of the essay is earnest, reflecting a sincere belief in the positive impacts of yoga. The author shares personal anecdotes and testimonials, enhancing this earnestness. The positive language used throughout reinforces the idea that the author genuinely advocates for yoga, supporting the assertion that the tone is earnest.

3. 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.

4. Which of the following is not listed as a detail in the passage about Concussions?

A. Football and lacrosse players suffer the most concussions.
B. More than a million Americans a year suffer concussions.
C. Concussions may result in diminished alertness.
D. It may take longer to recover from a second concussion.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Skim the passage to identify the detail that does not appear. The sports in choice A are never mentioned, so you do not even need to look at the other choices.

5. What is the meaning of the word diligent as used in the last paragraph about Sickle-Cell Anemia?

A. Dispersed.
B. Incensed.
C. Painstaking.
D. Demanding.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of sickle-cell anemia, diligent means painstaking, indicating the careful and thorough approach required to manage the disease. The passage highlights the challenges of managing the symptoms of sickle-cell anemia and the need for meticulous and conscientious care. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. 'Dispersed' and 'Incensed' do not align with the meaning of diligent in this context. 'Demanding' does not capture the essence of the careful and thorough care needed to manage the disease.