what was the authors primary purpose for writing this essay

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. What was the author's primary purpose for writing this essay?

A. To inform the reader about the stages of the water cycle
B. To explain how rain is formed
C. To persuade readers to preserve water
D. To inform the reader about water's importance in life

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The author's primary purpose for writing this essay is to inform the readers about the stages of the water cycle. The essay explains how water moves through the cycle, including processes like precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choice A is correct because the focus is on educating readers about the water cycle, not just explaining how rain is formed (Choice B), persuading readers to preserve water (Choice C), or discussing water's importance in life (Choice D). The detailed explanation of the water cycle provided in the extract supports the correct answer.

2. What does the author suggest about the Earth's tilt in the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. The Earth's tilt has no effect on the seasons.
B. The Earth's tilt affects the amount of sunlight different areas receive.
C. The Earth's tilt is constant throughout the year.
D. The Earth's tilt changes dramatically during the seasons.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The author suggests that the Earth's tilt affects the amount of sunlight different areas receive, influencing the seasons. The passage explains how the tilt of the Earth towards the sun results in different regions receiving varying amounts of sunlight, leading to the existence of seasons. This tilt causes regions near the equator to receive more sunlight consistently, while the Poles experience periods of constant darkness or sunlight, creating different seasons. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the passage clearly states that the Earth's tilt influences sunlight distribution and subsequently impacts the seasons.

3. What is implied by the article?

A. Siam was renamed Thailand in the past
B. The author dislikes parlor games
C. Elephants are difficult to take care of and train
D. White elephants were considered sacred and a burden to their recipients

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The article explicitly states that centuries ago, Siam, now known as Thailand, had the custom of giving white elephants as punishment. This implies that Siam was renamed Thailand in the past. The other choices (B, C, D) are not supported by the content of the article. Choice B is incorrect as the author does not express any dislike for parlor games. Choice C is incorrect as the article does not mention that elephants are easy or difficult to take care of and train. Choice D is incorrect as the article describes white elephants as sacred and a burden to their recipients, not as hard workers in the cane fields.

4. Why did Strauss set up a net during the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge?

A. For suspension
B. For balance
C. For aesthetics
D. For safety

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Strauss set up a net to ensure the safety of the workers in case of falls during the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge. Safety nets were essential to protect the workers from potential accidents or falls while working on the bridge. Choice A ('For suspension') is incorrect as safety nets were not used for suspension purposes but rather for worker safety. Choice B ('For balance') is incorrect as the balance of the bridge was maintained by other construction elements, not safety nets. Choice C ('For aesthetics') is incorrect as safety nets are not related to the visual appearance of the bridge but rather to the protection of the workers.

5. 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.