the word track as used in the last paragraph of the passage can best be defined as

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension

1. The word 'track' as used in the last paragraph of the passage can best be defined as ___________.

A. Keep a record of
B. A new attitude
C. Follow carefully
D. A paved, circular path

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the context of the passage, 'track' refers to a 'paved, circular path' for running or walking. The last sentence of the passage encourages people to get off the couch and onto the track, indicating a physical path for exercise. Choice A, 'Keep a record of,' is incorrect as the context does not suggest any relation to recording information. Choice B, 'A new attitude,' is unrelated to the context of exercise and fatigue reduction. Choice C, 'Follow carefully,' does not fit the context of physical activity and energy levels discussed in the passage.

2. 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.

3. What does the word 'suit' mean in the passage about Bridge?

A. A set of clothing to be worn together.
B. Any of the four sets into which a deck of cards is divided.
C. To request or appeal persistently.
D. To be convenient or right for.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Any of the four sets into which a deck of cards is divided.' In the context of card games like Bridge, 'suit' refers to one of the four divisions of a deck of cards - spades, hearts, diamonds, or clubs. Each suit contains cards of different ranks, and during the game, players must follow suit if possible, meaning they must play a card of the same suit that was led. This is crucial for understanding card hierarchy and gameplay in Bridge. Choice A is incorrect because it defines 'suit' in terms of clothing, which is not relevant to the context of the passage. Choice C is incorrect as it defines 'suit' as a verb meaning to request persistently, which is unrelated to the card game. Choice D is also incorrect as it defines 'suit' as an adjective meaning to be convenient or right for, which is not the meaning intended in the passage about Bridge.

4. What is the author’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.

5. In the passage, a trick is described as?

A. A special look given to your partner across the table
B. A book that gives strategies on how to win at Bridge
C. A specific card the dealer gives to the person to her right
D. A round in which each player plays a card, and the highest card wins

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the passage, a trick is described as a specific card played by each player, forming a collection of four cards. This is a fundamental concept in the game of Bridge, where players take turns playing cards to create a trick. The trick is won by the player with the highest card of the lead suit or the trump suit if applicable. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the definition of a trick as provided in the passage.