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. Which statement from the passage on Voice is a fact rather than an opinion?

A. One of the worst voice qualities is harshness.
B. Harsh voice qualities come from tension in the throat.
C. Your voice will sound unpleasant if it is shrill or grating.
D. Because tension occurs in higher-pitched voices, women tend to have shriller voices than men.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The fact that harsh voice qualities come from tension in the throat is a verifiable statement based on a scientific explanation provided in the passage. This statement is not subject to personal interpretation or judgment. Choice A is an opinion as it categorizes harshness as one of the worst voice qualities, which is subjective. Choice C is also an opinion as it describes how a voice will sound based on subjective terms like 'unpleasant.' Choice D is an opinion as it makes a generalized statement linking higher-pitched voices with shriller voices in women, which can vary widely among individuals.

3. In the context of the passage, 'accommodate' means to

A. Arrange lodging for
B. Contain
C. Make allowances for
D. Excuse

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this context, 'accommodate' means to make allowances for different focal points of vision. The passage explains that the function of the lens is to adjust for different focal points so that sensory data can be correctly directed to the retina for interpretation into images by the brain. This aligns with the meaning of 'make allowances for' as it indicates adapting to or accommodating different needs or requirements. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because in the context of the passage, 'accommodate' specifically refers to adjusting for different focal points of vision rather than arranging lodging, containing, or excusing.

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 would be the best title for this passage?

A. Being a Team in PE
B. A New Kind of Grade
C. Learning Martial Arts
D. PE for School and Life

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best title for this passage is 'PE for School and Life' as it encapsulates the broader purpose of physical education described in the extract. The passage emphasizes teaching students lifelong fitness habits, instilling lessons about maintaining good health, staying fit, and introducing exercise that can be incorporated into their lives. The focus is on fitness as a lifelong skill rather than just a short-term activity for a good grade. Choice A, 'Being a Team in PE,' is incorrect as the passage highlights individual exercise and movement rather than team-based activities. Choice B, 'A New Kind of Grade,' is also incorrect as the passage mentions a shift in grading towards effort rather than specific performance tasks. Choice C, 'Learning Martial Arts,' is too narrow as the passage discusses a variety of activities beyond martial arts that are taught in modern PE classes.