what is the main idea of the passage about toxins and your health

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the main idea of the passage about Toxins and Your Health?

A. Environmental toxins may have dire health effects over time.
B. Of three toxins studied, lead has the worst effect on health.
C. Toxins may accumulate in the bones of older patients.
D. Johns Hopkins University has discovered a new use for lead.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the long-term effects of environmental toxins such as lead, pesticides, and mercury on brain health, particularly as individuals age. Dr. Brian Schwartz's quote highlights the link between environmental exposure and cognitive decline, framing the entire discussion around the potential health ramifications of such exposure over time. This clearly aligns with choice A, making it the main idea of the passage.

2. In the passage the word embark means to:

A. Remove the covering from a tree
B. Speak harshly to others
C. Entertain the reader
D. Put or go on board a ship

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The word 'embark' typically means to board a ship or begin a journey. In this context, it means to start or set out on a new undertaking or venture, often including the act of boarding a ship. In the provided passage about the Golden Gate Bridge, it is mentioned that builders, architects, and workers embarked on the challenge of building a bridge across the Golden Gate Strait, which refers to them starting this new undertaking. Therefore, the correct definition of 'embark' is D. Put or go on board a ship. The other choices are incorrect: A. Removing the covering from a tree is unrelated to the context of the passage. B. Speaking harshly to others and C. Entertaining the reader are also irrelevant to the meaning of 'embark' in this context.

3. What is the overall tone of the essay?

A. Informative
B. Insensitive
C. Grim
D. Uplifting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage discusses the challenges and symptoms associated with sickle-cell anemia, portraying a somber and serious tone. The descriptions of persistent pain, difficulties, and the impact on individuals' lives make the overall tone fairly grim. The essay focuses on the hardships faced by individuals with sickle-cell anemia, highlighting the severity of the disease. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the tone of the essay is not informal, insensitive, or uplifting. It is important to consider the language used, the subject matter, and the overall emotional impact of the text to determine the tone accurately.

4. What is the meaning of the word exposed as used in the first paragraph about Toxins and Your Health?

A. Uncovered.
B. Subjected.
C. Visible.
D. Divulged.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the context of the passage, "exposed" means to be subjected to harmful elements. It suggests vulnerability to these toxins, which can lead to serious health issues later in life. The other options do not accurately capture the implications of "exposed" in relation to toxic substances, making B the correct choice.

5. What does the word 'integral' mean as used in the first paragraph of the passage?

A. Central
B. Initial
C. Trifling
D. Irrelevant

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'integral' means 'central' or essential. The passage discusses the debate around spanking as a method of discipline. Some parents consider it an integral part of teaching right and wrong, highlighting its central importance. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: Central.' Choice B, 'Initial,' is incorrect as the word 'integral' does not refer to something being at the beginning of a process or sequence. Choice C, 'Trifling,' is incorrect as 'integral' implies significance and importance, opposite to being trivial. Choice D, 'Irrelevant,' is incorrect as the passage clearly states that some parents view spanking as essential, making it relevant and not irrelevant.