what is the meaning of the word instill as used in the second paragraph of the passage

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. 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.

2. Why does the author mention 'impact craters' in line 16?

A. To explain the corrosive effects of atmospheric weathering
B. To explain why the Moon has no plant life because of meteorites
C. To show the result of the Moon not having an atmosphere
D. To show the result of the Moon not having active tectonic or volcanic activity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The mention of impact craters in the text is to highlight the consequence of the Moon lacking an atmosphere. The absence of an atmosphere on the Moon leaves it vulnerable to meteorite impacts, resulting in the multitude of impact craters on its surface. Choice A is incorrect because the mention of impact craters is not related to atmospheric weathering but rather to the lack of an atmosphere. Choice B is incorrect as it misinterprets the reason for the absence of plant life on the Moon. Choice D is incorrect as the text explicitly states that the Moon lacks tectonic or volcanic activity, which is not the focus of the mention of impact craters.

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. What is the overall tone of the essay about A Short History of the CDC?

A. Appreciative.
B. Awestruck.
C. Somber.
D. Disheartened.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The tone of the essay is appreciative, reflecting a recognition of the CDC's historical contributions to public health. The passage highlights the organization's evolution and its significant impact on disease control and prevention, suggesting a positive and respectful view of its work over the years, making A the correct choice.

5. What is the main reason the author wrote the passage about the Electoral College?

A. To criticize the complexity of the Electoral College.
B. To explain how the Electoral College works.
C. To advocate for abolishing the Electoral College.
D. To promote the benefits of the Electoral College.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage primarily aims to explain how the Electoral College functions in U.S. elections. It provides details on how the Electoral College operates, including the allocation of electoral votes based on states' representation in Congress, the role of senators and representatives, and how electoral votes are cast during presidential elections. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the passage does not criticize, advocate for abolishing, or promote the benefits of the Electoral College. Instead, it focuses on clarifying its mechanism.