which statement would not be inferred by the reader in the passage about barefoot running

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. Which statement would not be inferred by the reader in the passage about Barefoot Running?

A. Runners who take their shoes off may face some hazards.
B. Modern running shoes may increase the odds for injury.
C. Walking barefoot is good for the muscles and tendons.
D. Before 1950, even Olympic runners ran barefoot.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage does not imply that Olympic runners specifically ran barefoot before 1950. While it discusses historical context regarding running shoes, the claim about Olympic runners is not substantiated within the text, making D the correct answer. It represents an inference that cannot be drawn from the provided information.

2. The information presented is:

A. Slanted in favor of newscasters
B. Slanted against people with deep voices
C. Balanced in its approach
D. Not applicable

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The information is balanced in its approach. While the extract mentions that women tend to have shriller voices, making them less desirable public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates, it does not show bias in favor of newscasters or against people with deep voices. The main focus is on the impact of voice qualities such as harshness, rather than promoting or criticizing any specific group.

3. Why was receiving a white elephant considered a burden in ancient Siam?

A. People tried to avoid receiving it, as it was a burden.
B. It was a symbol of honor and wealth.
C. It was used in ceremonial processes.
D. The people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Receiving a white elephant in ancient Siam was considered a burden because the animal, being sacred, couldn't be used for work like other elephants. The recipient had to bear the cost of feeding the elephant large amounts of fruit and maintaining it in a lavish manner. The ruler's displeasure if the gift was not accepted graciously added to the pressure. This financial strain often led recipients to financial ruin. Therefore, people tried to avoid receiving a white elephant to prevent these financial consequences. Choice B is incorrect because the white elephant was not considered a symbol of honor and wealth but rather a burden. Choice C is incorrect as the white elephant was not primarily used in ceremonial processes but was a gift that came with financial responsibilities. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not mention that people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift, but rather the opposite.

4. A reader might infer from this passage that the organization ___________.

A. succeeded in eradicating malaria
B. has always been led by a medical doctor
C. no longer studies communicable diseases
D. changed its name to match its mission

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage never says whether or not the CDC succeeded in its original mission (choice A) or whether it continued to be led by doctors (choice B). Inferring either of those things would be a leap unsupported by the text. Choice C is countered by information in the final

5. What is the authorâ€™s primary purpose in writing this essay about microbes?

A. To persuade
B. To inform
C. To entertain
D. To analyze

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The author's primary purpose is to inform readers about the crucial role of microorganisms in the immune system. The essay focuses on presenting factual information and recent discoveries regarding the impact of microbes on human health. The author aims to educate the readers on the significance of microbes in human health rather than persuade them of a particular viewpoint (Choice A), entertain them with light-hearted content (Choice C), or analyze in-depth data and findings (Choice D). The essay's emphasis on informing readers about the role of microorganisms in the immune system makes 'To inform' the correct choice.