what does the word integral mean as used in the first paragraph of the passage

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension

1. What does the word 'integral' mean as used in the first paragraph of the passage?

A. Central
B. Initial
C. Trifling
D. Irrelevant

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'integral' means 'central' or essential. The passage discusses the debate around spanking as a method of discipline. Some parents consider it an integral part of teaching right and wrong, highlighting its central importance. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: Central.' Choice B, 'Initial,' is incorrect as the word 'integral' does not refer to something being at the beginning of a process or sequence. Choice C, 'Trifling,' is incorrect as 'integral' implies significance and importance, opposite to being trivial. Choice D, 'Irrelevant,' is incorrect as the passage clearly states that some parents view spanking as essential, making it relevant and not irrelevant.

2. What is the overall tone of the essay?

A. Apathetic
B. Fascinated
C. Discouraged
D. Hopeful

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The overall tone of the essay is discouraged, as it conveys concern over the United States’ lower ranking in life expectancy and highlights various health issues contributing to this situation. The language used suggests frustration and disappointment regarding the country's health statistics, supporting option C as the correct answer.

3. What does the word 'obligatory' mean in the context of the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. Approved.
B. Sparse.
C. Requisite.
D. Aberrant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the passage, Daylight Savings Time is presented as something that must be done by law, making it a requirement or something obligatory. 'Requisite' fits this meaning. 'Approved' (choice A) does not convey the sense of necessity as 'obligatory' does. 'Sparse' (choice B) means thinly dispersed and does not relate to the context. 'Aberrant' (choice D) means deviating from the norm, which is not applicable in this context.

4. Why did the author write the passage on Getting a Good Night's Sleep?

A. To explain insomnia and propose solutions for it.
B. To entertain readers with sleep trivia.
C. To persuade people to sleep more.
D. To inform about the benefits of herbs for sleep.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The author wrote the passage to address the issue of insomnia, offering solutions such as sleep hygiene and non-pharmacological therapies. The passage discusses the challenges of insomnia, its impact on daily life, and emphasizes the importance of seeking help to achieve a good night's sleep. Choice B is incorrect as the passage focuses on a serious topic rather than entertaining with trivia. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not aim to persuade people to sleep more but to address insomnia specifically. Choice D is incorrect as the passage mentions herbs and spices as part of non-pharmacological therapies for insomnia, not primarily focusing on their benefits.

5. 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.