what is the authors primary purpose in writing the essay about sunny side up

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the author’s primary purpose in writing the essay about Sunny-Side Up?

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The author's primary purpose is to inform readers about the benefits of sunlight, including its role in vitamin D synthesis and other health benefits. While the passage does advocate for sunlight exposure, the primary aim is to provide information rather than persuade or entertain, making D the most accurate choice.

2. A reader might infer from this passage that ___________.

A. Obesity can be detrimental to a long life
B. Car crashes are most frequent in the United States
C. The Second Amendment should be overturned
D. People in Asia and Africa have the shortest life spans

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage indicates that obesity, along with other health-related issues, contributes to lower life expectancy. This implies that obesity can negatively affect one's lifespan, making option A the correct inference based on the information presented in the text. The other options do not accurately reflect the implications of the passage.

3. What is the subject of the passage?

A. foodborne illnesses
B. the dangers of uncooked food
C. bacteria
D. proper food preparation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'foodborne illnesses.' The passage discusses how foodborne illnesses are contracted by consuming contaminated food or beverages, the symptoms they can cause, common sources of contamination like bacteria, viruses, and chemicals, and preventive measures. While the passage mentions dangers associated with uncooked food, bacteria, and proper food preparation, the primary focus is on foodborne illnesses caused by various contaminants. Choice B, 'the dangers of uncooked food,' is incorrect as it is a narrower focus compared to the broader topic of foodborne illnesses. Choice C, 'bacteria,' is incorrect as it is one of the contaminants discussed in relation to foodborne illnesses but not the central subject of the passage. Choice D, 'proper food preparation,' is incorrect as it is mentioned in the passage but not as the main subject; rather, it is discussed as a preventive measure to avoid foodborne illnesses.

4. What does the word 'composed' mean in the passage on the Water Cycle?

A. To consist of.
B. To create.
C. To separate.
D. To destroy.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context of the Water Cycle, 'composed' means 'to consist of' parts. For instance, water is composed of hydrogen and oxygen atoms. Therefore, the correct meaning of 'composed' in this context is to consist of various components. Choice B, 'To create,' is incorrect as 'composed' refers to the makeup of something rather than the act of making or creating. Choices C and D, 'To separate' and 'To destroy,' are also incorrect as they do not align with the meaning of 'composed' in the passage.

5. Which statement would not be inferred by the reader in the passage about Super Foods?

A. Instant oatmeal can be part of a healthful breakfast.
B. Blueberries are an especially healthful food.
C. Certain grains and dairy products are super foods.
D. Super foods are more expensive than processed foods.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage does not imply or provide information regarding the cost of superfoods compared to processed foods. Therefore, D is the correct answer, as it identifies a statement that cannot be inferred from the passage.