what is the authors primary purpose in writing the essay about high fructose corn syrup

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the author’s primary purpose in writing the essay about High Fructose Corn Syrup?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'To inform.' The essay provides detailed information about High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS), discussing its impact on health, how it is derived, its link to health issues like obesity, and the ongoing debates surrounding its consumption and health implications. The primary goal of the author is to educate the readers about HFCS and its effects, rather than persuade them to take a particular stance (choice B), entertain them (choice C), or analyze the topic in depth (choice D). The essay presents facts, studies, and expert opinions to inform the audience about the controversies and health risks associated with HFCS consumption, aiming to enhance the readers' knowledge and understanding of this sweetener's implications on health.

2. Which of the following statements is an opinion related to Barefoot Running?

A. Running barefoot is natural and advantageous.
B. The cost of modern running shoes keeps increasing.
C. Concrete sidewalks are harder than dirt paths.
D. The arch of the foot gives a spring to the step.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The statement that "running barefoot is natural and advantageous" reflects a subjective opinion, which cannot be definitively proven or measured objectively. The other statements (B, C, and D) provide factual observations or comparisons that can be validated through evidence, which distinguishes A as the only opinion-based statement.

3. Which might be a good title for the 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.

4. What is implied about Benjamin Franklin in the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. Benjamin Franklin opposed the idea of Daylight Savings Time.
B. Benjamin Franklin was the first to implement Daylight Savings Time.
C. Benjamin Franklin proposed the idea of Daylight Savings Time.
D. Benjamin Franklin had no role in Daylight Savings Time.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage states that Benjamin Franklin first suggested the introduction of Daylight Savings Time in the 18th century. However, the first serious proposal came in 1907 from William Willet. Franklin's idea was not implemented during his lifetime, but he did propose the concept. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because Franklin did not oppose the idea. Choice B is incorrect because he was not the first to implement it. Choice D is incorrect because he did have a role in proposing the idea.

5. What is the author’s primary purpose in writing the essay?

A. To persuade the reader to have an ECG
B. To entertain the reader with a heartwarming story
C. To inform the reader how an electrocardiograph reads the electric currents emitted by the heart
D. To analyze the difference between the SA node and the AV node

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The author's primary purpose in writing the essay is to inform the reader about how an electrocardiograph reads the electric currents emitted by the heart. Choice A is incorrect because there is no attempt to persuade the reader to have an ECG. Choice B is incorrect because the essay is focused on providing information rather than entertaining with a heartwarming story. Choice D is incorrect as the essay does not primarily analyze the difference between the SA node and the AV node; instead, it focuses on explaining how an electrocardiograph reads electric currents from the heart.