which statement from the selection presents a fact rather than an opinion

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. Which statement from the selection presents a fact rather than an opinion?

A. One of the worst voice qualities is harshness
B. Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw
C. Your voice will sound unpleasant if it is shrill, grating, hard, piercing, brassy, too loud, or too nasal
D. Because tension occurs in higher pitched voices, women tend to have shriller voices than men, which usually makes them less desirable public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Statement B, 'Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw,' presents a fact rather than an opinion. This statement provides a clear and objective observation about the potential cause of harsh voice qualities, based on physical tension in specific areas of the body, which can be objectively measured and identified. Choice A is an opinion as it states 'One of the worst voice qualities is harshness' without providing a verifiable basis. Choice C lists subjective descriptors of an unpleasant voice without stating a definite cause. Choice D introduces a gender-based assertion about voice quality, making it an opinion rather than a factual observation.

2. What is the meaning of the word viable as used in the last paragraph?

A. Reasonable
B. Unresolved
C. Contemporary
D. Consistent

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context of the passage, "viable" means reasonable or feasible, referring to the acceptability of acupuncture as a treatment option based on the study's results. This definition aligns with the implications made in the conclusion of the study, thus supporting option A.

3. Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?

A. It is a good gift to give at the party
B. Gifts are never unwanted
C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.

4. FRAX takes into account all of the following factors EXCEPT ___________.

A. Lifestyle choices
B. Exposure to toxins
C. Genetic heritage
D. Exposure to sunlight

Correct answer: B

Rationale: FRAX, a tool used to assess fracture risk, considers various factors like lifestyle choices, genetic heritage, and exposure to sunlight. However, exposure to toxins is not mentioned in the provided extract as a factor considered by FRAX. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Exposure to toxins is unrelated to fracture risk assessment as per the information provided. Lifestyle choices, genetic heritage, and exposure to sunlight are all factors that FRAX takes into consideration to determine the risk of experiencing a fracture within the next decade.

5. 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.