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

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The author’s enthusiastic and supportive tone toward yoga—stating that it is an exercise that "everyone should try"—indicates a clear intent to persuade the audience about the benefits of yoga. This aligns with choice A, as the primary purpose of the essay is to promote yoga as a valuable practice

3. What is the meaning of the word diligent as used in the last paragraph about Sickle-Cell Anemia?

A. Dispersed.
B. Incensed.
C. Painstaking.
D. Demanding.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of sickle-cell anemia, diligent means painstaking, indicating the careful and thorough approach required to manage the disease. The passage highlights the challenges of managing the symptoms of sickle-cell anemia and the need for meticulous and conscientious care. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. 'Dispersed' and 'Incensed' do not align with the meaning of diligent in this context. 'Demanding' does not capture the essence of the careful and thorough care needed to manage the disease.

4. Which claim from the passage best describes the benefits of nanotechnology?

A. Scientists can develop novel technologies and products.
B. Nanotechnology is defined as the understanding and control of matter at dimensions of roughly 1 to 100 nanometers.
C. The different colors can be used in simple medical tests to indicate infection or disease.
D. Unique properties of materials emerge.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the passage specifically states that at the nanoscale, unique properties of materials emerge, which is a key benefit of nanotechnology. Choice A talks about what scientists can do but does not directly describe the benefits mentioned in the passage. Choice B is the definition of nanotechnology and not a specific benefit. Choice C mentions the use of different colors in medical tests, which is a specific application rather than a general benefit of nanotechnology.

5. What conclusion can you draw from the first sentence of the passage?

A. Osteoporosis is more common than anyone previously imagined.
B. The media give a lot of overall coverage to osteoporosis.
C. Only women are at high risk for developing bone thinning.
D. Thinning bones is not considered a serious medical problem.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The first sentence suggests that osteoporosis receives significant media coverage, indicating that the media gives a lot of overall coverage to the issue. This conclusion can be drawn as the passage mentions how osteoporosis is a major health concern for women and is widely covered in newspapers and television commercials. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not mention the prevalence of osteoporosis compared to previous estimates. Choice C is incorrect as the passage highlights that men are being overlooked in terms of bone thinning concerns. Choice D is incorrect as the passage emphasizes the seriousness of bone thinning and the need for preventive measures.