what is the main reason athletes want to participate in the summer olympic games

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What motivates athletes to participate in the Summer Olympic Games?

A. Athletes strive for winning medals.
B. Athletes seek opportunities to travel the world.
C. Athletes aim for financial gain.
D. Athletes feel patriotic pride.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main reason athletes want to participate in the Summer Olympic Games is often driven by a sense of patriotic pride. Representing their country and showcasing their skills on an international platform instills a deep sense of national pride in athletes. While winning medals is a significant goal for many athletes, the primary motivation to participate in the Olympics is often rooted in representing their nation. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because although athletes may aspire to win medals, travel the world, or earn money through endorsements, the core driving factor for most athletes in the Summer Olympics is the patriotic pride of representing their country.

2. Which might be a good title for this passage?

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" encapsulates the central theme of the passage, which explores both the advantages and disadvantages of barefoot running. It effectively summarizes the discussions around differing opinions and the lack of consensus on this topic. Other titles do not accurately reflect the primary focus of the essay, making D the most suitable choice.

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

A. To inform the reader about the dangers of high blood pressure
B. To inform the reader how high blood pressure leads to a higher risk of heart attack
C. To inform the reader how the cardiovascular system regulates blood pressure
D. To persuade the reader that controlling one’s blood pressure is important

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of the essay is to inform the reader about how the cardiovascular system regulates blood pressure. The essay provides detailed explanations about the components of the cardiovascular system that regulate blood pressure, such as baroreceptors, chemoreceptors, and the kidneys. Choices A and B are incorrect because the essay does not focus on discussing the dangers of high blood pressure or its correlation with a higher risk of heart attack. Choice D is incorrect as the essay does not aim to persuade the reader to control their blood pressure but rather to educate them on the regulatory mechanisms of the cardiovascular system.

4. What conclusion can the reader draw after reading the passage about The Sleep Workout?

A. Getting uninterrupted sleep is more important than getting enough sleep.
B. Insufficient sleep may result in an increased risk for obesity.
C. Human growth hormone is not essential for muscle development.
D. Leptin is essential for building muscle.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the passage highlights that insufficient sleep could lead to an increased risk of obesity. The passage emphasizes the importance of uninterrupted sleep in muscle development and mentions that inadequate sleep is linked to lowered levels of leptin, a hormone that controls appetite. This imbalance in leptin due to lack of sleep can lead to increased cravings for carbohydrates, contributing to obesity. Choice A is incorrect as the passage stresses the significance of both uninterrupted sleep and getting enough sleep for muscle growth. Choice C is incorrect because the passage clearly states that human growth hormone (HGH) is essential for muscle development. Choice D is incorrect as leptin is not essential for building muscle but is mentioned in the passage as a hormone related to controlling appetite and its link to inadequate sleep and obesity.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'evolved' in the first paragraph?

A. To spread
B. To gradually develop
C. To revolve
D. To shift

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the context of the given extract, 'evolved' means to gradually develop. The systems in the body have evolved over time, indicating a gradual development and adaptation. 'To spread,' 'to revolve,' and 'to shift' do not capture the idea of a gradual development as portrayed in the text, making them incorrect choices.