what is the main idea of the passage on daylight savings time

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What is the main idea of the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. Daylight Savings Time helps save energy.
B. Daylight Savings Time is unnecessary and outdated.
C. Daylight Savings Time is a law to conserve energy during wars.
D. Daylight Savings Time was first implemented in Germany.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Daylight Savings Time helps save energy." The passage explains how Daylight Savings Time is implemented to take advantage of more daylight, which results in energy savings. By adjusting clocks ahead in spring, people can make use of additional daylight in the evenings, leading to reduced energy consumption. This measure was introduced to address energy crises and has been shown to save significant amounts of energy. Choice B is incorrect as the passage does not portray Daylight Savings Time as unnecessary or outdated; instead, it highlights its benefits. Choice C is partially correct but not the main idea of the passage, as saving energy is the primary focus. Choice D is mentioned in the passage but is not the main idea; the main idea is about the purpose and benefits of Daylight Savings Time.

2. 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.

3. Which might be a good title for the passage about Barefoot Running?

A. Everyone Should Run Barefoot.
B. How to Prevent Running Injuries.
C. Modern Road Surfaces Versus Barefoot Running.
D. The Debate over Barefoot Running.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The title 'The Debate over Barefoot Running' captures the main discussion in the passage.

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

A. Subjects were given mild stressors.
B. Lemon and lavender scents were tested.
C. Vanilla worked better than lemon for stress.
D. The study took place at Ohio State University.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage does not support the idea that vanilla worked better than lemon for stress relief; instead, it focuses specifically on lemon and lavender as the tested scents. The absence of this information regarding vanilla makes C the correct answer, as it is not included in the details provided in the passage.

5. Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?

A. It is a good gift to give at the party
B. Gifts are never unwanted
C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.