HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Benjamin Franklin proposed the concept of Daylight Savings Time. This is the correct answer because in 1784, Franklin wrote a satirical letter suggesting that people could save money on candles by waking up earlier to make use of natural daylight. The other choices are incorrect because Franklin did not invent Daylight Savings Time (A), he did not oppose it (C), and he did have a connection to it as he proposed the concept (D).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: The Electoral College is outdated and needs reform. The passage likely presents arguments highlighting issues with the current system, such as disproportionate representation, potential for faithless electors, or failure to reflect popular vote. This choice aligns with common criticisms of the Electoral College. A: The Electoral College ensures that all states have a say in elections. While this is a possible argument, it may not be the main point of the passage and does not address the potential concerns raised in the passage. C: The Electoral College should be abolished. While this could be a valid viewpoint, it may not necessarily be the main argument presented in the passage. D: The Electoral College was created to favor larger states. This is a historical perspective and not necessarily the main argument concerning the current state of the Electoral College system.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: The anchorages. The anchorages are typically the first part of a bridge to be built, as they provide the foundational support for the structure. In the case of the Golden Gate Bridge, the construction started with the building of the anchorages to securely hold the cables in place. The towers, cables, and roadway are all dependent on the anchorages for stability and support, making them subsequent components in the construction process. Therefore, the anchorages being built first aligns with standard bridge construction practices.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: To explain the tradition of giving white elephants. The passage likely provides details, history, and significance of the tradition, aiming to educate readers. This choice aligns with the purpose of informing and clarifying the practice of giving white elephants. The other choices are incorrect because A only focuses on historical customs, B focuses on entertainment value, and D suggests a critical viewpoint, which may not be the main purpose of the passage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Balancing the road to prevent collapse. This was the most dangerous part because achieving balance was crucial to prevent the bridge from collapsing under its own weight. It required precise calculations and adjustments to ensure stability. Incorrect choices: B: Constructing the towers due to their height - While constructing the towers was challenging, it was not the most dangerous part as the engineering and construction methods were well-established. C: Suspending the cables with difficulty - Although suspending the cables was complex, it was not as dangerous as ensuring the overall balance of the bridge. D: Ensuring the critical balance of the bridge - This choice is similar to the correct answer but lacks specificity regarding the road's balance, which was the most critical aspect.