which statement from the selection presents a fact rather than an opinion

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. Which statement from the selection presents a fact rather than an opinion?

A. One of the worst voice qualities is harshness
B. Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw
C. Your voice will sound unpleasant if it is shrill, grating, hard, piercing, brassy, too loud, or too nasal
D. Because tension occurs in higher pitched voices, women tend to have shriller voices than men, which usually makes them less desirable public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Statement B, 'Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw,' presents a fact rather than an opinion. This statement provides a clear and objective observation about the potential cause of harsh voice qualities, based on physical tension in specific areas of the body, which can be objectively measured and identified. Choice A is an opinion as it states 'One of the worst voice qualities is harshness' without providing a verifiable basis. Choice C lists subjective descriptors of an unpleasant voice without stating a definite cause. Choice D introduces a gender-based assertion about voice quality, making it an opinion rather than a factual observation.

2. What conclusion can be drawn about the article?

A. The author explains differences in eating methods.
B. Eating habits vary across different cultures.
C. Space travel has posed challenges for eating habits.
D. Chopsticks are more suitable than forks for space travel.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The passage discusses different eating methods in various cultures, focusing on their differences. The author describes the development of cutlery in European cultures, the use of chopsticks in China, and how space travel has influenced eating tools for astronauts. Choice B is incorrect because the passage emphasizes the differences rather than the similarities in eating habits across cultures. Choice C is partially supported by the passage as it mentions that space travel has created new challenges for consuming food, but it is not the main conclusion of the article. Choice D is not directly supported by the passage as it discusses the challenges of using chopsticks and forks in space rather than stating that chopsticks are superior to forks.

3. What is the main idea of the passage about Super Foods?

A. Super foods are low in calories but provide essential nutrients that have enormous health benefits.
B. U.S. supermarkets should make a point of stocking up on powerful super foods.
C. Blueberries are a super food that contains a natural inflammatory as well as important vitamins and minerals.
D. Doctors now believe that daily inclusion of super foods in the diet can reverse the aging process.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main idea emphasizes that superfoods are low in calories yet rich in essential nutrients that provide significant health benefits. This statement captures the overall essence of the passage, while the other options focus too narrowly or introduce unsupported claims, making A the correct answer.

4. What is the meaning of the word "pulses" as it appears in the first paragraph?

A. The regular throbbing of the arteries caused by successive contractions of the heart
B. The general attitude of the public or a specific population toward health concerns
C. The edible seeds produced by legumes such as peas, beans, or lentils
D. Any type of food with animal origins such as butter, honey, or eggs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of the passage, "pulses" refers to the edible seeds produced by legumes.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'phenomenon' in the second paragraph?

A. Something that is lifeless to the senses
B. Something that is nonchalant
C. Something that is significant but unusual
D. Something that is chemical in origin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of the second paragraph, 'phenomenon' refers to something significant and unusual, specifically describing the scientific phenomenon known as the Doppler Effect. This effect explains the change in frequency of sound waves when a source of sound and the observer are in relative motion. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the meaning of 'phenomenon' in this context. 'Lifeless to the senses,' 'nonchalant,' and 'chemical in origin' do not align with the description of the Doppler Effect, which is a notable and uncommon scientific occurrence.