choose the best summary of the passage

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Choose the best summary of the passage.

A. We often think of all fat as bad, but it is clear that certain fats, especially the more healthful unsaturated fats, are important for bodily function.
B. If you must consume some fat, be sure to choose unsaturated fats such as oils rather than saturated fats found in prepackaged snacks or animal products.
C. Doctors and researchers have discovered that without the calories found in fat, people would not have functioning metabolisms.
D. Some intake of saturated fat is necessary, but you should stay away from the kind of fat found in fried food, which can lead to heart disease.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The best summary of the passage emphasizes the importance of certain fats, particularly unsaturated fats, for bodily function. It highlights that after years of negative publicity, experts now recognize the significance of consuming fats for overall health. The passage discusses how fat is essential for cell health, vitamin absorption, and various bodily functions. It also distinguishes between healthier unsaturated fats like olive oil and detrimental trans fats. Choice B is not the best summary as it focuses more on the choice between unsaturated and saturated fats rather than the overall importance of fats. Choice C is incorrect as the passage doesn't solely attribute functioning metabolisms to fat calories. Choice D is not the best summary as it only briefly mentions saturated fats and fried foods, missing the broader context provided in the passage.

2. In context, the word 'defective' in the first sentence of the passage means which of the following?

A. Unusual
B. Remarkable
C. Postponed
D. Faulty

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the context provided, 'defective' means faulty, referring to the gene that causes cystic fibrosis (CF). The passage explains that CF is caused by a defective gene, resulting in the production of abnormally thick and sticky fluid. The word 'defective' suggests that the gene is not functioning correctly, leading to the symptoms associated with the disease. Therefore, 'faulty' is the correct choice. The other options, 'unusual,' 'remarkable,' and 'postponed,' do not accurately capture the meaning of 'defective' in this context and are therefore incorrect.

3. What is the meaning of the word respite as used in the first paragraph?

A. Relief
B. Treatment
C. Guardian
D. Specialist

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'respite' refers to relief, providing caregivers with temporary rest or a break from their caregiving duties. The word 'respite' is associated with giving caregivers a brief period of relief, not with treatment, guardianship, or specialization. The extract mentions 'respite services' along with caregiver services, indicating that respite is a form of support or relief for caregivers.

4. Which might be a good title for this passage about Barefoot Running?

A. Everyone Should Run Barefoot
B. How to Prevent Running Injuries
C. Modern Road Surfaces Versus Barefoot Running
D. The Debate over Barefoot Running

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The title 'The Debate over Barefoot Running' captures the main discussion in the passage.

5. 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.