what is the meaning of the word consensus as it is used in the last paragraph about barefoot running

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 conclusion can be drawn about the article?

A. The author explains differences in eating methods.
B. Eating habits vary across different cultures.
C. Space travel has posed challenges for eating habits.
D. Chopsticks are more suitable than forks for space travel.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The passage discusses different eating methods in various cultures, focusing on their differences. The author describes the development of cutlery in European cultures, the use of chopsticks in China, and how space travel has influenced eating tools for astronauts. Choice B is incorrect because the passage emphasizes the differences rather than the similarities in eating habits across cultures. Choice C is partially supported by the passage as it mentions that space travel has created new challenges for consuming food, but it is not the main conclusion of the article. Choice D is not directly supported by the passage as it discusses the challenges of using chopsticks and forks in space rather than stating that chopsticks are superior to forks.

3. What is the author's reason for writing the passage on the White Elephant?

A. To inform readers about Thailand's historical customs.
B. To entertain readers with the origins of the term 'white elephant.'
C. To explain the tradition of giving white elephants.
D. To criticize the tradition of giving white elephants as gifts.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To explain the tradition of giving white elephants.' The passage provides historical context about the practice of giving white elephants as gifts in ancient Siam, now Thailand. It explains how white elephants were considered sacred, could not be put to work, and became a burden to the recipients. The author's purpose is to shed light on this tradition and its implications, not to inform readers about Thailand in general (choice A), entertain with fun facts (choice B), or criticize the tradition (choice D). Choices A and B are incorrect because the passage focuses specifically on the tradition of giving white elephants, not on broader aspects of Thailand or entertainment. Choice D is incorrect because the passage does not criticize the tradition but rather provides a factual account of its historical significance.

4. 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.