what is the meaning of the word shifts as used in the third paragraph

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension

1. What is the meaning of the word 'shifts' as used in the third paragraph?

A. Alterations
B. Stints
C. Removals
D. Transfers

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'shifts' refers to changes or alterations in brain chemistry and electrophysiology. The word 'alterations' best captures the idea that significant changes are occurring in the brain. 'Stints' (choice B) refer to short periods of time or work, which is not the meaning intended here. 'Removals' (choice C) and 'transfers' (choice D) do not fit the context of the sentence and are not related to the changes happening in the brain as described in the extract.

2. What is the meaning of the word compelling as used in the passage about Sunny-Side Up?

A. Reasonable.
B. Convincing.
C. Common.
D. Worthwhile.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, "compelling" refers to something that is convincing or persuasive. The passage presents a strong argument in favor of sunlight's benefits, particularly in relation to vitamin D synthesis. Therefore, B is the correct choice as it aligns with the author's intent to present a convincing argument.

3. 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.

4. What is stated in the passage about the Olympic Games?

A. The Olympic Games are held every four years.
B. The Olympic Games are often postponed.
C. The Olympic Games are held only in leap years.
D. The Olympic Games only involve certain countries.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The Olympic Games are held every four years,' as stated in the passage. The extract explicitly mentions that the Summer Olympic Games are held every four years. Choice B is incorrect as there is no mention of the Olympic Games being often postponed in the passage. Choice C is incorrect because although the Olympic Games occur during leap years, they are not exclusively held only in leap years. Choice D is incorrect as there is no indication in the passage that the Olympic Games only involve certain countries.

5. Which might be a good title for this passage?

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" encapsulates the central theme of the passage, which explores both the advantages and disadvantages of barefoot running. It effectively summarizes the discussions around differing opinions and the lack of consensus on this topic. Other titles do not accurately reflect the primary focus of the essay, making D the most suitable choice.