what was the authors primary purpose for writing this essay

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. What was the author's primary purpose for writing this essay?

A. To inform the reader about the stages of the water cycle
B. To explain how rain is formed
C. To persuade readers to preserve water
D. To inform the reader about water's importance in life

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The author's primary purpose for writing this essay is to inform the readers about the stages of the water cycle. The essay explains how water moves through the cycle, including processes like precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choice A is correct because the focus is on educating readers about the water cycle, not just explaining how rain is formed (Choice B), persuading readers to preserve water (Choice C), or discussing water's importance in life (Choice D). The detailed explanation of the water cycle provided in the extract supports the correct answer.

2. What fact is stated about the Amazon Rainforest in the passage?

A. The Amazon Rainforest is shrinking rapidly.
B. The Amazon Rainforest is home to diverse species.
C. The Amazon Rainforest is unaffected by human activity.
D. The Amazon Rainforest contains few animals.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage highlights the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest, emphasizing its diverse species of plants and animals. The passage describes the rainforest as home to over 2,000 birds and mammals, with one in every five birds in the world living there. It also mentions the vast variety of insects, trees, and plants present in the rainforest, showcasing its rich ecosystem. Choice A is incorrect as the passage does not directly state that the Amazon Rainforest is shrinking rapidly, although it does mention the dangers it faces. Choice C is incorrect as the passage clearly indicates that human activity, such as deforestation, poses a significant threat to the rainforest. Choice D is incorrect as the passage provides evidence of a high number of animals inhabiting the Amazon Rainforest.

3. What does sleep apnea cause?

A. Chronic illness.
B. Good sleep.
C. Improved memory.
D. Reduced physical illness.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sleep apnea causes chronic illness. The passage specifically mentions that sleep apnea can result in chronic insomnia, indicating it can cause long-term health problems. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as sleep apnea does not lead to good sleep, improved memory, or reduced physical illness.

4. What is the main idea of the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. Daylight Savings Time helps save energy.
B. Daylight Savings Time is unnecessary and outdated.
C. Daylight Savings Time is a law to conserve energy during wars.
D. Daylight Savings Time was first implemented in Germany.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Daylight Savings Time helps save energy." The passage explains how Daylight Savings Time is implemented to take advantage of more daylight, which results in energy savings. By adjusting clocks ahead in spring, people can make use of additional daylight in the evenings, leading to reduced energy consumption. This measure was introduced to address energy crises and has been shown to save significant amounts of energy. Choice B is incorrect as the passage does not portray Daylight Savings Time as unnecessary or outdated; instead, it highlights its benefits. Choice C is partially correct but not the main idea of the passage, as saving energy is the primary focus. Choice D is mentioned in the passage but is not the main idea; the main idea is about the purpose and benefits of Daylight Savings Time.

5. Which of the following statements is an opinion related to MRSA?

A. Hand-washing stations are one means of combating MRSA infection.
B. Not all Staphylococcus bacteria are resistant to antibiotics.
C. Hospitals in the United States should quickly adopt the use of new germ-fighting textiles.
D. MRSA infection kills more people in the United States than does HIV/AIDS.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it is an opinion rather than a verifiable fact. The statement suggests a recommendation for hospitals to adopt new germ-fighting textiles swiftly, which is a subjective viewpoint and not objectively measurable. Choices A and B are factual statements regarding combating MRSA infection and antibiotic resistance, respectively. Choice D provides a comparison of MRSA infection with HIV/AIDS, which is a factual statement based on statistical data. Therefore, C is the only choice that presents an opinion rather than a fact.