HESI A2
Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2
1. What is the meaning of the word consensus as it is used in the last paragraph about Barefoot Running?
- A. Investigation.
- B. Purpose.
- C. Trepidation.
- D. Unanimity.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: "Consensus" refers to a general agreement or unanimity among individuals, particularly regarding the safety and effectiveness of barefoot running. The passage discusses differing opinions on this subject, indicating that there is not a unanimous agreement. Thus, choice D accurately captures the meaning of "consensus" within the context of the discussion.
2. What is the meaning of the word instill as used in the second paragraph of the passage?
- A. Impart
- B. Propagandize
- C. Demand
- D. Create
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Impart.' In the context of the passage, 'instill' means to impart important lessons about maintaining good health, staying fit, and keeping weight under control. This word choice is appropriate as it aligns with the idea of teaching and passing on knowledge. Choice B, 'Propagandize,' is incorrect as it implies spreading biased or misleading information, which is not the intended meaning in this context. Choice C, 'Demand,' is incorrect as it does not capture the concept of teaching or passing on lessons. Choice D, 'Create,' is also incorrect as it does not convey the idea of imparting knowledge or lessons, which is the central meaning of 'instill' in this context.
3. 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.
4. As used in the last sentence of this paragraph, the term 'concomitant' means?
- A. Accompanying
- B. Quiet
- C. Frustrated
- D. Prefer low-pitched tones
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In the provided extract, the term 'concomitant' is used to describe problems associated with alcohol abuse, such as the individual becoming alcoholic, contribution to highway deaths by drunken drivers, and spousal and child abuse. Therefore, in this context, 'concomitant' means accompanying, or going along with something else. The other choices of 'Quiet,' 'Frustrated,' and 'Prefer low-pitched tones' do not align with the meaning of 'concomitant' as used in the paragraph.
5. Which of the following is not listed as a detail in the passage about microbes?
- A. Babies are born coated with germs from the birth canal.
- B. Mice and humans respond to microbes differently.
- C. Few people share the same microbes in the same quantities.
- D. Human bodies contain far more microbes than they do cells.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the passage does not detail that mice and humans respond to microbes differently. The passage discusses how laboratory mice required a particular strain of bacteria to help their immune systems function correctly, indicating a difference in how mice and humans respond to microbes. Choices A, C, and D are all details mentioned in the passage: A discusses babies being coated with germs from the birth canal, C talks about the variation in microbes among individuals, and D states that human bodies contain more microbes than cells.
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