why was the roadway so dangerous to build

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. Why was the roadway so dangerous to build?

A. There weren't enough materials available to build the road
B. The workers might get hit by passing cars
C. The men would fall to their deaths
D. The men would be attacked by animals.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The roadway was dangerous to build because the men involved in the construction were at risk of falling to their deaths. The excerpt mentions that the construction of the roadway was the most dangerous and treacherous part of the entire task, indicating a high risk of falling due to the height and precarious nature of the construction site. Choice A is incorrect because the danger was due to the physical risks of falling and not due to a lack of materials. Choice B is incorrect as passing cars were not the primary danger during the construction of the roadway. Choice D is incorrect since there is no mention of workers being attacked by animals during the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge.

2. What is the meaning of the word 'pathogens' as it is used in the first paragraph?

A. diseases
B. vaccines
C. disease-causing substances
D. foods

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context provided, 'pathogens' refers to disease-causing substances such as bacteria and viruses. These microorganisms can contaminate food and lead to foodborne illnesses. Choice A ('diseases') is incorrect as pathogens themselves cause diseases but are not diseases. Choice B ('vaccines') is incorrect as vaccines are used to prevent diseases caused by pathogens. Choice D ('foods') is incorrect as pathogens are not foods, but rather contaminants that can be found in food.

3. What is the main idea of the passage?

A. Senior citizens need to increase their calcium and vitamin D intake.
B. The food pyramid was revised to reflect the needs of seniors.
C. Physical activity is a new addition to the food pyramid.
D. The revised food pyramid looks more like a food square.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The passage discusses the revision of the food pyramid specifically to address the unique dietary needs of seniors. It emphasizes how the changes were made based on ongoing research and analysis, indicating a broader focus on senior nutrition rather than just individual nutrients or exercise. Thus, option B captures the essence of the passage as it succinctly summarizes the main idea.

4. What conclusion can be drawn from the passage on bicycles?

A. Bicycles have been evolving for centuries.
B. Bicycles have evolved significantly over time.
C. Bicycles have remained unchanged since their invention.
D. Bicycles are no longer a popular means of transportation.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct conclusion that can be drawn from the passage is that bicycles have evolved significantly over time. The passage discusses the evolution of bicycles from their early wooden, pedal-less designs to the modern safety bicycle with equal-sized wheels and chain-driven pedals. Each inventor mentioned in the passage contributed to significant improvements in bicycle design, making them more efficient and popular for transportation and recreation. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not mention bicycles evolving continuously for centuries, but rather highlights specific innovations over time. Choice C is incorrect as the passage clearly describes the various improvements and changes made to bicycles since their invention. Choice D is also incorrect as the passage emphasizes the continued popularity and usefulness of bicycles for transportation all over the world.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'ideal' as it is used in the first paragraph?

A. thoughtful
B. confined
C. hostile
D. perfect

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this context, 'ideal' means perfect. The human body provides a perfect environment for many microbes, as stated in the extract. It is the immune system's role to keep these microbes out or destroy them. The other choices are incorrect: 'thoughtful' does not fit the context of the sentence, 'confined' and 'hostile' are not synonymous with 'ideal' in this context.