HESI_A2_Reading_Comprehension_Study_Guide_BOOK

  HESI A2 Full Reading Comprehension Guide Main Idea What is the “Main Idea”? The main idea is what the text is about and what the author wants you, the reader, to know. If someone were to ask you, “What was that book or article about?” they are asking you about the main idea. When you can tell them exactly what it is about, you have grasped the main idea. What is the purpose of the main idea? The purpose of the main idea is two-fold. First, it lets the reader know what the text is about so that the reader can decide whether or not to continue reading. Secondly, its purpose is to engage the reader quickly. It serves to capture and take hold of the reader within the first minute or two of picking up the text. How can you identify the main idea? The main idea is usually (but not always) apparent within the first two to three sentences. Often, the main idea is the same as the topic sentence. At other times, the title may state the main idea. After the first two or three paragraphs of a text, a reader should be able to identify the main idea and what the text is seeking to do. Some questions you can ask yourself after these first paragraphs include: ● Does this book/article/text tell me who, what, when, where, or how about something? ● Does this piece’s title tell me what I am reading? ● What is the point of this text? Main idea and supporting details The text you are reading will have additional details that help support or lend credence to the main idea. As you are reading, it is important to stop periodically to decide reflect how the supporting details help illustrate the main idea and to determine how they relate to each other. Rereading and reviewing Sometimes it is necessary to read the text again to decipher the main idea and the supporting details. Read each paragraph carefully and consider why the author is sharing this information. Example: Glass is such a popular material in our homes because it has all kinds of really useful properties. Apart from being transparent, it's inexpensive to make, easy to shape when it's molten, reasonably resistant to heat when it's set, chemically inert (so a glass jar doesn't react with the things you put inside it), and it can be recycled many number of times. What is the main idea of this paragraph? a. Glass is transparent. b. Glass can be recycled. c. Glass is useful in varied ways. d. Glass is resistant to heat. The answer is C. The first sentence states that glass is a popular material because it is useful in many ways. All the other answers (a, b, d) are supporting details that illustrate the main idea. Identifying the Main Idea Worksheet Select the main idea of each paragraph from the choices provided. 1. Annie Etheridge is one of the most famous nurses of the Civil War. Annie decided to become a nurse after her experience looking after her father when he was very ill and who eventually passed away. When the war broke out, Annie joined the 2nd Michigan Volunteer Infantry. She was affectionately nicknamed “Gentle Annie” and known for her bravery and courage. Annie was also an expert horsewoman and would ride throughout the battlefields with her saddlebags full of medical supplies. At one point, Annie’s horse was shot out from under her, but she continued to work in the field and tend to wounded soldiers. Her dedication and courage led her to become one of only two women in history to ever be awarded the Kearny Cross. When she died in 1913, Annie was buried as a veteran. What is the best title for this passage? a. “The Greatest Horsewoman of the Civil War” b. “The Famous Kearny Cross Award” c. “The Bravery and Courage of Nurse Annie” d. “Annie’s Dying Father” 2. Studies show that people who work in front of the computer all day can benefit from getting up from their desk and moving around. Prolonged inactivity can cause serious long-term health issues, including an increased risk of heart disease. To combat some of the negative effects of sitting in front of a computer for extended periods of time, it is recommended that workers should incorporate 5 to 10 minutes of activity per hour into their daily schedule. This can include activities such as stretching or walking. What is the main idea of this passage? a. Engaging in activity periodically throughout the day can be beneficial to your health. b. Sitting for prolonged periods of time is good for your overall health. c. Working at a desk is the primary cause of heart disease. d. There aren’t any benefits to stretching or walking. 3. The Black Death, also known as the Black Plague, was an epidemic of the bubonic plague. A disease caused by a bacterium carried by wild rodents where they live in great numbers and density. These kinds of rodents, specifically black rodents, like to live among humans, unlike the grey and brown rats, who prefer to keep distance and live in sewers and cellars. The black rats carry fleas and once the infected rats died, the fleas became hungry and then feed on humans. Therefore, infecting the humans and carrying the contagion from the rat to the person. Choose the best summary for this passage. a. The Black Death was caused by a high number of rats living in high populated areas. b. Black rodents like to live in areas where there are a lot of humans. c. The Black Death has various names including the Black Plague. d. Black rats are one of the most dangerous animals in the world. 4. Frida Kahlo is a cultural icon and is especially revered in her home country of Mexico. Frida’s art was heavily influenced by her traumatic experiences as a child and early adulthood. Her works of art showcased physical and psychological events, including a crippling accident, and the infidelity of her husband. The tone of her pieces was brooding and introspective as she dealt with personal identity issues. Frida was of mixed ancestry - Mexican and German - and at one point changed the spelling of her first name to be of less Germanic influence. Later in her life, Frida had to rely on painkillers because of her physical condition which ended up affecting the quality of her work. Today she is one of the most famous artists in the world. Her name alone brings in many fans to museums and cultural events. Which of the following is not listed as a detail? a. Frida was of mixed ancestry. b. Traumatic events in Frida’s life that influenced her art. c. Frida was in a terrible, life-altering car accident. d. Frida was in a crippling accident. IDENTIFYING MAIN IDEA Worksheet - Answer Key Select the main idea of each paragraph from the choices provided. 1. Annie Etheridge is one of the most famous nurses of the Civil War. Annie decided to become a nurse after her experience looking after her father when he was very ill and who eventually passed away. When the war broke out, Annie joined the 2nd Michigan Volunteer Infantry. She was affectionately nicknamed “Gentle Annie” and known for her bravery and courage. Annie was also an expert horsewoman and would ride throughout the battlefields with her saddlebags full of medical supplies. At one point, Annie’s horse was shot out from under her, but she continued to work in the field and tend to wounded soldiers. Her dedication and courage led her to become one of only two women in history to ever be awarded the Kearny Cross. When she died in 1913, Annie was buried as a veteran. What is the best title for this passage? a. “The Greatest Horsewoman of the Civil War” b. “The Famous Kearny Cross Award” c. “The Bravery and Courage of Nurse Annie” d. “Annie’s Dying Father” The correct answer is C. The passage cites several examples of Annie being brave and courageous. The other titles are describing supporting details. The entire passage does not talk about just the award, or just or horsemanship skills, or just her father. The story encompasses all of those details which are better “umbrella-d” in the title “The Bravery and Courage of Nurse Annie.” 2. Studies show that people who work in front of the computer all day can benefit from getting up from their desk and moving around. Prolonged inactivity can cause serious long term health issues, including an increased risk of heart disease. To combat some of the negative effects of sitting in front of a computer for extended periods of time, it is recommended that workers should incorporate 5 to 10 minutes of activity per hour into their daily schedule. This can include activities such as stretching or walking. What is the main idea of this passage? a. Engaging in activity periodically throughout the day can be beneficial to your health. b. Sitting for prolonged periods of time is good for your overall health. c. Working at a desk is the primary cause of heart disease. d. There aren’t any benefits to stretching or walking. The correct answer is A. Although the passage talks about sitting for prolonged period of times, it does not mention that it is good for health or that it is a primary cause of heart diseases. Also, walking and stretching are types of activities that can be incorporated to combat the negative effects of sitting for long periods. Thus, any activity performed periodically is beneficial to health. 3. The Black Death, also known as the Black Plague, was an epidemic of the bubonic plague. A disease caused by a bacterium carried by wild rodents where they live in great numbers and density. These kinds of rodents, specifically black rodents, like to live among humans, unlike the grey and brown rats, who prefer to keep distance and live in sewers and cellars. The black rats carry fleas and once the infected rats died, the fleas became hungry and then fed on humans. Therefore, infecting the humans and carrying the contagion from the rat to the person. Choose the best summary for this passage. a. The Black Death was caused by a high number of rats living in high populated areas. b. Black rodents like to live in areas where there are a lot of humans. c. The Black Death has various names including the Black Plague. d. Black rats are one of the most dangerous animals in the world. The correct answer is A. This answer choice describes the main theme of the passage. The entire paragraph is about the Black Death and how the rats affect the humans and incited disease. It describes how the black death was caused by the black rats. B and C are too specific and are details supporting the main idea. D is not even mentioned as a detail at all in the story. 4. Frida Kahlo is a cultural icon and is especially revered in her home country of Mexico. Frida’s art was heavily influenced by her traumatic experiences as a child and early adulthood. Her works of art showcased physical and psychological events, including a crippling accident, and the infidelity of her husband. The tone of her pieces was brooding and introspective as she dealt with personal identity issues. Frida was of mixed ancestry - Mexican and German - and at one point changed the spelling of her first name to be of less Germanic influence. Later in her life, Frida had to rely on painkillers because of her physical condition which ended up affecting the quality of her work. Today she is one of the most famous artists in the world. Her name alone brings in many fans to museums and cultural events. Which of the following is not listed as a detail? a. Frida was of mixed ancestry. b. Traumatic events in Frida’s life that influenced her art. c. Frida was in a terrible, life-altering car accident. d. Frida was in a crippling accident. The correct answer is C. Although the passage does talk about a traumatic and crippling accident that happened to Friday, the story never details exactly what happened. Nowhere in the story is it revealed that the tragic, crippling accident was a car accident. All other details A, B, and D were all mentioned explicitly in the passage. What is author’s tone? Author’s Tone Author’s tone is the way the author speaks through her/his words. The author’s tone includes the words that he/she uses to describe people, situations, and events. The tone gives the reader clues about how the author thinks or feels about particular subjects and people. We get a sense of the author’s attitude. What is its purpose? Part of the purpose of tone is to create the mood of the piece. Mostly, however, the tone of the text gives the reader insight into why the author is writing in the first place, especially in non- fiction writing. The reader can infer the author’s purpose by identifying tone. Why is it important? Author’s tone is important because, along with clueing the reader about the purpose of the text, it allows the reader to engage in a deeper way by identifying whether the text is fact or opinion, an expository or persuasive piece, etc. Evaluating the tone also requires the reader to check his or her own biases and prejudices in relation to the topic. Do you find yourself sympathizing with something simply because of how the author speaks? The tone may be partially responsible! How to identify author’s tone Tone can be tricky to identify, but some general rules are to consider context clues, like the adjectives and descriptions of people, places, and events in the text. How is the author using his/her words? What words is he/she choosing? How does he/she compare and contrast items within the text? Is the author trying to prove something to the reader? Or have something to gain by persuading the reader of something? Are the adjectives used almost exclusively negative (or positive) or have negative (or positive) connotations? If asked, how would the author respond to questions about the characters, events, or places? What would his/her face look like when asked? Example: Antibiotics are medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Antibiotics don’t work against infections caused by viruses, such as colds and flu. So, there’s no point in taking antibiotics to treat a cold or flu, and no point asking your doctor to prescribe them for a cold or flu. Taking antibiotics when you don’t need them, like for a cold or flu, is a waste of time and money and completely ridiculous. It can also mean that they won't work when you really need them for a serious infection. What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Disappointed b. Cautionary c. Regretful d. Scornful The correct answer is D. The author uses phrases and words like “no point in,” “complete waste of time,” and “completely ridiculous.” These kinds of phrases are almost mocking and sneering, and definitely scornful. The speaker does not respect anyone who would take antibiotics if they had the cold or flu. Answer A is not correct because there is nothing regarding disappointment or sadness, nor regret (answer B). The author is telling the reader not to take antibiotics which does sound like advice or caution (answer B) however, the overall tone of the entire passage is more disdainful than giving helpful cautionary advice. Identifying Author’s Tone Worksheet For the following examples, identify tone and context clues. 1. Often it can feel that a lot of hard work and effort does not turn out to be an accomplishment. It can seem the little things do not matter and can easily go unnoticed. However, the small things always matter and carry great importance. Just as every tiny stitch that goes into making a dress, counts. Just as each brick or nail toward a house built, counts. Just as each mistake turns into new acquired knowledge, counts. What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Hesitant b. Encouraging c. Regretful d. Amusing Context clues: 2. The swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that regularly cause outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Influenza viruses that commonly circulate in swine are called “swine influenza viruses” or “swine flu viruses.” Like human influenza viruses, there are different subtypes and strains of swine influenza viruses. What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Fearful b. Unsure c. Negative d. Objective Context clues: 3. America is seriously failing their nation’s teenagers when it comes to the education of sexually transmitted diseases. Somehow the leaders of this nation must be convinced, without delay, that these terrible illnesses can infect their nation’s young population. Teenagers must be given this information in order to protect themselves -- before it’s too late. What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Mocking b. Ironic c. Objective d. Earnest Context clues: 4. The Washington Post has reported that a famous country singer has come forward to announce he has signed into an addiction-treatment centre to deal with his alcohol problems. The Post writes in detail about his courage and honesty to come out to the public with his personal issues. That may be the case, but in truth, what it really takes to enter a centre is money. What about your average poor man who may have a drinking problem and “courage,” but who doesn’t happen to have the funds to pay for $500 dollars a nice in a fancy rest home? What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Bitter b. Regretful c. Revengeful d. Sentimental Context clues: 5. Botulism, a type of rare, severe food poisoning, has been reported recently in New Jersey. It is believed that the victim, who is in critical condition at a local hospital, was stricken after eating from a jar of incorrectly preserved home-grown green beans from last summer’s garden. It has been ten years since the last instance of botulism poisoning was reported in the state. What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Hesitant b. Serious c. Cautionary d. Tragic Context clues: 6. Sure, litterbugs account for a lot of the trash blowing around a city’s streets, but there are other villains too. What about people who set out their trash days ahead of their scheduled trash pickup time? Worse yet are the stores that pile boxes in back alleys, and restaurants whose mounds of green—bagged trash draw rodents and roaches. What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Tolerant b. Depressed c. Critical d. Disappointed Context clues: IDENTIFYING AUTHOR’S TONE Worksheet - Answer Key For the following examples, identify tone and context clues. 1. Often it can feel that a lot of hard work and effort does not turn out to be an accomplishment. It can seem the little things do not matter and can easily go unnoticed. However, the small things always matter and carry great importance. Just as every tiny stitch that goes into making a dress, counts. Just as each brick or nail toward a house built, counts. Just as each mistake turns into new acquired knowledge, counts. What is the overall tone of this passage? e. Hesitant f. Encouraging g. Regretful h. Amusing Context clues: small things always matter and carry great importance The correct answer is B. The tone is encouraging because there are a series of context clues that express encouraging and hopeful details like the importance of a tiny stitch, the importance of a single nail, etc. 2. The swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that regularly cause outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Influenza viruses that commonly circulate in swine are called “swine influenza viruses” or “swine flu viruses.” Like human influenza viruses, there are different subtypes and strains of swine influenza viruses. What is the overall tone of this passage? e. Fearful f. Unsure g. Negative h. Objective Context clues: list of facts and no opinionated statements The correct answer is D. The story is objective and has no language or words that would make the reader feel scared. It is merely providing facts. Context clues include the factual sentences included like the names of the influenza viruses and details about it being a respiratory disease. 3. America is seriously failing their nation’s teenagers when it comes to the education of sexually transmitted diseases. Somehow the leaders of this nation must be convinced, without delay, that these terrible illnesses can infect their nation’s young population. Teenagers must be given this information in order to protect themselves -- before it’s too late. What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Mocking b. Ironic c. Objective d. Earnest Context clues: pleading tone, ‘nation must be convinced’ and ‘before it’s too late. The correct answer is D. The author is writing with great earnest and intense conviction. Context clues include phrases like “must be convinced, without delay” and “must be given this information … before it’s too late.” The author describes the importance of this issue with great emotion and urgency. It is not mocking (A) or making fun of anyone and it is not trying to show sarcasm or irony (B). The text is also not objective (C) because there are strong opinions expressed in the passage. 4. The Washington Post has reported that a famous country singer has come forward to announce he has signed into an addiction-treatment centre to deal with his alcohol problems. The Post writes in detail about his courage and honesty to come out to the public with his personal issues. That may be the case, but in truth, what it really takes to enter a center is money. What about your average poor man who may have a drinking problem and “courage,” but who doesn’t happen to have the funds to pay for $500 dollars a night in a fancy rest home? What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Bitter b. Regretful c. Revengeful d. Sentimental Context clues: ‘what it really takes is money’ ‘what about the average poor man’ ‘fancy rest home’ The correct answer is A. The writer is talking about an article with great cynicism and bitterness. Context clues are “what it really takes … is money” and “pay for $500 a night to rest in a fancy home.” The author does not show any words of regret (B) nor does he seem to be seeking revenge (C). Sentimental (D) refers to tender emotions and here, the author is more harsh than tender. 5. Botulism, a type of rare, severe food poisoning, has been reported recently in New Jersey. It is believed that the victim, who is in critical condition at a local hospital, was stricken after eating from a jar of incorrectly preserved home-grown green beans from last summer’s garden. It has been ten years since the last instance of botulism poisoning was reported in the state. What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Hesitant b. Serious c. Cautionary d. Tragic Context clues: serious tone and stating neutral facts, no adjectives to arise emotion The correct answer is B. The passage has a mainly neutral and serious tone. Context clues include the lack of emotional words and merely stating facts like what botulism is and how it can happen if eating incorrectly preserved beans. It is not hesitant (A) because the other doesn’t seem to pause or write feelings that makes the reader feel nervous. It is not cautionary (C) because it does provide any words of advice or warnings. It just states fact. If it was a warning it would say something like “Do not make home-grown green beans or you’ll get sick and possibly die!” There would be more emotion behind it. It is not tragic (D) because there are no emotional words of tragedy or mournfulness. 6. Sure, litterbugs account for a lot of the trash blowing around a city’s streets, but there are other villains too. What about people who set out their trash days ahead of their scheduled trash pickup time? Worse yet are the stores that pile boxes in back alleys, and restaurants whose mounds of green—bagged trash draw rodents and roaches. What is the overall tone of this passage? a. Tolerant b. Depressed c. Critical d. Disappointed Context clues: ‘what about people who…’ ‘worse yet…’ The correct is C. The author is criticizing all the people who contribute to the trash in cities. Context clues include when the author goes into detail about how some people leave their trash about before scheduled time and how restaurant owners leave trash in the back alleys. The passage has no details about sadness or depression (B). There are no encouraging or tolerant (B) phrases and the author is not disappointed (D) or upset. The tone is harsher than that. What is fact or opinion? Fact or Opinion Some texts will be more factual and others will be opinion. It is important that a reader understand the difference between a fact and an opinion statement. A fact is an objective truth that can be supported with evidence. An opinion is a subjective statement that cannot be proven or upheld by objective standards. Each person will have individual thoughts on a particular subject, and there is no demonstrable proof that one way is “right.” Why are there factual and opinionated texts? Factual pieces, like scientific research and historical timelines, exist to spread knowledge or build a foundation of informational understanding. Opinion pieces, like editorials and reviews, seek to engage and persuade the reader, create a dialog, and challenge long-held ideas—even factual ones! How can I tell the difference? When a statement can be validated by other texts and evidence, it is a fact. If it mentions specific times, places, events, or dates, it is most likely a fact. If it cannot be supported by additional information, and especially if the statement draws the reader into any personal views of the author, it is most likely opinion. Ask yourself the following: ● Does the author use value judgements by using words like good, better, horrible, should, must, etc.? ● Is this information found anywhere else and shared in the same way by a credible organization, publication, or individual? ● Does the author cite his/her sources or say things like, “I believe”? Watch out! It is important to understand that even scientific research and historical timelines, as mentioned above, can have opinion statements within their work, even while the whole of the piece is still factual. Critical readers will notice when personal or subjective statements are made within a factual text. They will question the author’s motive and experience regarding that particular statement, based on what they know about opinions. Example: On January 1, 1959, a young Cuban nationalist named Fidel Castro drove his guerrilla army into Havana and overthrew General Fulgencio Batista, the nation’s American-backed president. For the next two years, officials at the U.S. State Department and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) attempted to push Castro from power. Finally, in April 1961, the CIA launched what its leaders believed would be the definitive strike: a full-scale invasion of Cuba by 1,400 American-trained Cubans who had fled their homes when Castro took over. However, the invasion did not go well: The invaders were badly outnumbered by Castro’s troops, and they surrendered after less than 24 hours of fighting. Many Cubans welcomed Fidel Castro’s 1959 overthrow of the dictatorial President Fulgencio Batista. Which of the following statements in an opinion? a. The invaders were outnumbered by Castro’s troops. b. However, the invasion did not go well. c. Fidel Castro drove his guerrilla army into Havana. d. General Fulgencio was the nation’s American-backed president. The correct answer is B. Although this is statement mentioned in the passage, this is a point of view and not a fact. In this point of view and opinion, it states the invasion did not go well. However, it can be argued that this was a good thing for the Cuban people and because it is possible that it can be good and or bad, depending on who you ask, this statement is an opinion. A, C, and D are indisputable facts that are true and not opinions. Fact or Opinion Worksheet Identify each of the following statements as expressions of fact or opinion. 1. On Tuesday, Mary Barra, 51, completed a personal odyssey when she was named as the next chief executive of G.M.--and the first woman to ascend to the top job at a major auto company. a. 2. A big reason America is falling behind other countries in science and math is that we have effectively written off a huge chunk of our population as uninterested in those fields or incapable of succeeding in them. a. 3. Last month the N.B.A. issued 21 fines and suspensions — a punitive spree that amounted to about $602,882. a. 4. The inspiration for the original “Anchorman” came one evening more than a decade ago when Mr. Ferrell was watching a television documentary about Jessica Savitch, one of the first women to anchor news telecasts. a. 5. Cowbirds are brood parasites, meaning they lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species, thus unloading the messy and demanding business of chick-rearing. a. 6. Instead of striving to make work fun, managers should concentrate on creating the conditions in which a variety of personality types, from the excitable to the naturally downbeat, can flourish. a. 7. In the first step to formally eradicating a thrilling but dangerous staple of the game — and an emphatic response to the concussion crisis that has gripped other sports — Major League Baseball’s rules committee voted Wednesday to eliminate home-plate collisions a. 8. Last year there was a horrible outbreak of the flu. a. 9. The average temperature in Wyoming in January is 35°F. a. 10. Children should not be allowed to watch more than five hours of television per week. a. FACT OR OPINION Worksheet - Answer Key Identify each of the following statements as expressions of fact or opinion. 1. On Tuesday, Mary Barra, 51, completed a personal odyssey when she was named as the next chief executive of G.M. and the first woman to ascend to the top job at a major auto company. a. Fact It is a fact as there is no point of view presented here. It is a statement that holds true and is indisputable. It is a factual statement in a specific timeline of the G.M. company. 2. A big reason America is falling behind other countries in science and math is that we have effectively written off a huge chunk of our population as uninterested in those fields or incapable of succeeding in them. a. Opinion This statement is an author’s opinion and not a fact because there is no specific data that corroborates this. It is an inference drawn by the author regarding the state of science and math in America. 3. Last month the N.B.A. issued 21 fines and suspensions — a punitive spree that amounted to about $602,882. a. Fact It is a fact as there is no point of view presented here. It is a statement that holds true and is indisputable. It is a factual statement by NBA about a bearing a loss of fixed amount of money from fines and suspensions. 4. The inspiration for the original “Anchorman” came one evening more than a decade ago when Mr. Ferrell was watching a television documentary about Jessica Savitch, one of the first women to anchor news telecasts. a. Fact It is a statement that holds true and is indisputable. It is a factual statement about an event that occurred in a specific time in history about “Anchorman”. 5. Cowbirds are brood parasites, meaning they lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species, thus unloading the messy and demanding business of chick-rearing. a. Fact This statement is a fact as it can be proven with other evidence. It is a statement that holds true and is indisputable about the cowbirds. 6. Instead of striving to make work fun, managers should concentrate on creating the conditions in which a variety of personality types, from the excitable to the naturally downbeat, can flourish. a. Opinion Here, author uses descriptive language to express his/her opinion about how the work environment should be. 7. In the first step to formally eradicating a thrilling but dangerous staple of the game — and an emphatic response to the concussion crisis that has gripped other sports — Major League Baseball’s rules committee voted Wednesday to eliminate home-plate collisions a. Fact It is a statement informing about Major League Baseball’s rule that has been voted to change. It is a statement that holds true and is indisputable and has already happened. 8. Last year there was a horrible outbreak of the flu. a. Opinion This is an opinion as it is based on particular feelings of the writer about the flu outbreak last year. Saying the flu is horrible is an opinion. 9. The average temperature in Wyoming in January is 35°F. a. Fact It is a fact as there is no point of view presented here. It is a statement that holds true and is indisputable. It is a factual statement about taking averages of temperature in January over the years, in Wyoming. This statement can be backed by data so it is not an opinion. 10. Children should not be allowed to watch more than five hours of television per week. a. Opinion In this statement, the author states their personal opinion about the amount of television, children should be allowed to watch. What is logical inference? Logical Inference Logical inference is the process of drawing conclusions from a text based on the presented information. In other words, it is a guess based on evidence. It is the step that enables a reader to conclude, predict, and analyse the information given. It is a form of deductive reasoning that helps us understand people’s actions, thoughts, and motives. Why is it important? Logical inference is a crucial skill for readers to develop because often the author will not give explicit instructions for how a reader should think, feel, or act. Particularly in informational and non-fiction texts, a reader needs to be able to synthesize the details, main idea, tone, and other key features so that he/she may begin to break down the “unwritten” information, or “read between the lines.” How does a reader infer? What an author expects a reader to infer is unwritten—hinted at and suggested rather than stated explicitly. Authors prod the reader through context and word usage, through the presentation and arrangement of evidence and events. Authors expect readers to make judgments and form opinions on their own. If a character enters a room carrying a dripping umbrella, the author wants readers to infer that it is raining. If an author describes only the errors made by a historical figure, readers can infer that the author holds a negative opinion of that person. Other things to consider: ● Based on the facts in the story, what does or what should the reader believe, think, or hope will happen next? ● What unwritten cause is behind the events or actions being described? ● What connections are suggested by transition words like although, therefore, and because? ● What conclusions can be drawn from the material presented in the writing? Example: Natalia Lafourcade is a Mexican pop-rock singer and songwriter who since her debut in 2003 has been one of the most successful singers in the pop rock scene in Latin America. Natalia produced her first LP under the label of Sony Music. In 2003, she was nominated for a Latin Grammy in Best New Artist Category for her debut album. In 2011, Natalia won the Best New Producer of the Year award in the Indie-O Music Awards for her work with Carla Morrison’s album. Natalia departed from her band and decided to create a solo album. Her next album, Hasta La Raiz, was released on March 2015 and the first single off the album was no. 5 on the viral Spotify chart. What can be inferred from the passage above? A. Natalia Lafourcade will continue to find success even as a solo artist. B. Natalia Lafourcade will focus on producing music for other artists. C. With her solo album, Natalia will most likely win another Best New Artist Award. D. With her solo album, Natalia will most likely win another Best New Producer Award. The correct answer is A. Context clues that can help the reader make this assumption are details about how her first solo album “was no. 5 on the viral Spotify chart.” These clues indicate that although she is no longer with her band, she is continuing to find success. B is not correct, because although she has produced for another artist, the passage does not make the point that producing music is her focus. C and D are not correct because one can make the assumption or guess that she cannot win those awards again because she is no longer a “new” artist or producer. Logical Inference WORKSHEET Read the passages. IF the statements following the passages are valid inferences based on those passages, mark the items I. If the statements cannot be inferred from the passage, mark those items X. The term “neon light” was originally applied to a particular type of vapour lamp using the inert, colourless gas neon. A long tube was filled with neon, which then became luminous at low pressure when an electric current was passed through it. The lamp then emitted the characteristic reddish-orange light of neon. Today, the term “neon light” is given to lamps of this general type which may be filled with a variety of gases, depending on the colour that is desired. Argon, for example, is used to produce blue light. Colours can also be altered by changing the colour of the glass tube. The tubes must be quite long in all these lamps to produce light efficiently. As a result, high voltages are required. Neon tube lamps are not practical for indoor illumination, but they have found widespread outdoor use in glowing, colourful advertising signs. 1. The inert gas neon is reddish-orange in colour. 2. The meaning of the term “neon light” has changed over time. 3. Today’s “neon lights” never actually contain neon. 4. All types of “neon lights” work on the same general principles. 5. When stimulated by electricity, different types of gas may produce different colours. 6. Modern “neon lights: are more efficient than those used in the past. 7. The primary market for neon lights is businesses rather than private households. A legend is a popular type of folk tale. In some ways, legends resemble myths, another type of folk tale. But myths describe events from antiquity and usually deal with religious subjects, such as the birth of a god. Legends tell of recognizable people, places and events and often take place in comparatively recent times. Some legends are based on real persons or events, but many are entirely fictional. The legends of the superhuman accomplishments of Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill are imaginary, while the legends about Washington and Lincoln are mostly exaggerations of real qualities those two presidents had. All societies have legends. Most legends began as stories about the heroes of a particular region, occupation, or ethnic group. For example, John Henry was a legendary hero of black Americans, and Casey Jones of railroad workers. Over time, however, these figures have become national heroes. 8. Both legends and myths can be classified as folk tales. 9. Myths generally take place in comparatively recent times. 10. The stories of Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill are not true, but they are based on actual people. 11. Legends about Washington and Lincoln are not entirely fictional. 12. John Henry and Casey Jones are today well-known only by small groups of people. Natural flavourings and fragrances are often costly and limited in supply. For example, the vital ingredient in a rose fragrance is extracted from natural rose oil at a cost of thousands of dollars a pound; an identical synthetic substance can be made for 1% of this cost. Since the early twentieth century, success in reproducing these substances has created a new industry that today produces hundreds of artificial flavours and fragrances. Some natural fragrances are easily synthesized; these include vanillin, the aromatic ingredient in vanilla, and benzaldehyde, the aromatic ingredient in wild cherries. Other fragrances, however, have dozens, even hundreds of components. Only recently has it been possible to separate and identify these ingredients by the use of gas chromatography and spectroscopy. Once the chemical identity is known, it is often possible to synthesize them. Nevertheless, some complex substances, such as the aroma of fresh coffee, have still not been duplicated satisfactorily. Many of the chemical compounds making up these synthetics are identical to those found in nature, and are as harmless or harmful as the natural substances. New products must be tested for safety, and when used in food, must be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The availability of synthetic flavours and fragrances has made possible a large variety of products, from inexpensive beverages to perfumed soap to used cars with applied “new car odour.” 13. Natural rose fragrance is 100 times more expensive to produce than artificial rose fragrance. 14. Vanillin is easier to synthesize than benzaldehyde. 15. In general, the more components there are in a fragrance, the harder it is to synthesize. 16. Once a substance has been chemically analysed, it can always be easily synthesized. 17. Only recently has it been possible to satisfactorily synthesize the aroma of fresh coffee. 18. Not all synthetic flavours are harmless. 19. Synthesized substances must be tested for safety only if they are used in food. 20. Synthetic fragrances can be used to make a used car smell like a new one. Logical Inference WORKSHEET - Answer Key Read the passages. IF the statements following the passages are valid inferences based on those passages, mark the items I. If the statements cannot be inferred from the passage, mark those items X. The term “neon light” was originally applied to a particular type of vapour lamp using the inert, colourless gas neon. A long tube was filled with neon, which then became luminous at low pressure when an electric current was passed through it. The lamp then emitted the characteristic reddish-orange light of neon. Today, the term “neon light” is given to lamps of this general type which may be filled with a variety of gases, depending on the colour that is desired. Argon, for example, is used to produce blue light. Colours can also be altered by changing the colour of the glass tube. The tubes must be quite long in all these lamps to produce light efficiently. As a result, high voltages are required. Neon tube lamps are not practical for indoor illumination, but they have found widespread outdoor use in glowing, colourful advertising signs. X I X I I X I 1. The inert gas neon is reddish-orange in colour. 2. The meaning of the term “neon light” has changed over time. 3. Today’s “neon lights” never actually contain neon. 4. All types of “neon lights” work on the same general principles. 5. When stimulated by electricity, different types of gas may produce different colours. 6. Modern “neon lights: are more efficient than those used in the past. 7. The primary market for neon lights is businesses rather than private households. A legend is a popular type of folk tale. In some ways, legends resemble myths, another type of folk tale. But myths describe events from antiquity and usually deal with religious subjects, such as the birth of a god. Legends tell of recognizable people, places and events and often take place in comparatively recent times. Some legends are based on real persons or events, but many are entirely fictional. The legends of the superhuman accomplishments of Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill are imaginary, while the legends about Washington and Lincoln are mostly exaggerations of real qualities those two presidents had. All societies have legends. Most legends began as stories about the heroes of a particular region, occupation, or ethnic group. For example, John Henry was a legendary hero of black Americans, and Casey Jones of railroad workers. Over time, however, these figures have become national heroes. I X 8. Both legends and myths can be classified as folk tales. 9. Myths generally take place in comparatively recent times. X I X 10. The stories of Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill are not true, but they are based on actual people. 11. Legends about Washington and Lincoln are not entirely fictional. 12. John Henry and Casey Jones are today well-known only by small groups of people. Natural flavourings and fragrances are often costly and limited in supply. For example, the vital ingredient in a rose fragrance is extracted from natural rose oil at a cost of thousands of dollars a pound; an identical synthetic substance can be made for 1% of this cost. Since the early twentieth century, success in reproducing these substances has created a new industry that today produces hundreds of artificial flavours and fragrances. Some natural fragrances are easily synthesized; these include vanillin, the aromatic ingredient in vanilla, and benzaldehyde, the aromatic ingredient in wild cherries. Other fragrances, however, have dozens, even hundreds of components. Only recently has it been possible to separate and identify these ingredients by the use of gas chromatography and spectroscopy. Once the chemical identity is known, it is often possible to synthesize them. Nevertheless, some complex substances, such as the aroma of fresh coffee, have still not been duplicated satisfactorily. Many of the chemical compounds making up these synthetics are identical to those found in nature, and are as harmless or harmful as the natural substances. New products must be tested for safety, and when used in food, must be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The availability of synthetic flavours and fragrances has made possible a large variety of products, from inexpensive beverages to perfumed soap to used cars with applied “new car odour.” I X I X X I X I 13. Natural rose fragrance is 100 times more expensive to produce than artificial rose fragrance. 14. Vanillin is easier to synthesize than benzaldehyde. 15. In general, the more components there are in a fragrance, the harder it is to synthesize. 16. Once a substance has been chemically analysed, it can always be easily synthesized. 17. Only recently has it been possible to satisfactorily synthesize the aroma of fresh coffee. 18. Not all synthetic flavours are harmless. 19. Synthesized substances must be tested for safety only if they are used in food. 20. Synthetic fragrances can be used to make a used car smell like a new one. What is word meaning? Meaning of Words Word meaning is any definition of a word that we use. Many words have multiple meanings; we must look to context for clarity. Sometimes texts use words that have not only commonplace, literal meanings but also figurative or more imaginative or metaphorical ones. These require us to look at the context to understand the meaning of the words. How can you identify shades of meaning? The context is the group of words around the word/s in question. The context gives clarity and foundational understanding to each word, especially when the word is being used differently than is usual. When a question asks you to find the meaning of the word, carefully read the sentence, and even the surrounding sentences look for context clues. Remember back to synonyms, antonyms, metaphors, similes, and author’s purpose to help you pick out what a word may be trying to convey. How does acknowledging shades of meaning help you? When you understand the surrounding sentences, you may be more likely to successfully identify the main idea, author’s tone, and make inferences! Conversely, misunderstanding or not getting the EXACT meaning of a vital word may cause you to miss, ignore, or confuse the main idea of the story. This is especially important when a word can be used in different, but very similar, ways. The context is going to tell you how to understand the word in that specific instance. Helpful hints: ● Look for words such as “but,” “although,” and “instead.” Be aware that the unknown word might be an antonym (opposite) of another word used in the sentence. ● Often, the author will repeat the definition of the word close by or in another paragraph when that topic is being explained further, so it is important to pay attention and keep going even if you may not understand completely. You can always go back! ● If you’re unclear about which word or meaning to use when reading, writing, or taking a test, replace it with the definition/s and synonyms to see which one works the best. Example: Modern dance is a broad genre of western concert or theatrical dance, primarily arising out of Germany and the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Modern dance is often considered to have emerged as a rejection of, or rebellion against classical ballet. Which of the following is closest in meaning to the word emerged in the passage? a. Come into the scene b. Come into expansion c. Replace d. Re-establish The correct answer is A. IDENTIFYING THE WORD MEANING Worksheet Select the word that best fits the statement using the context clues provided. All birds have feathers, and feathers are peculiar to birds. No other major group of animals is easy to categorize. All birds have wings, too, but there are other winged creatures, such as bats and certain insects. Many adaptations are found in both feathers and wings. Feathers form the soft down of goose and ducks, the showy plumes of ostriches and egrets, and the strong flight feathers of eagles and condors. Wings vary from the short, broad ones of chickens, which seldom fly, to the long, slim ones of albatrosses, which spend almost all their lives soaring on air currents. In penguins, wings have been modified into flippers and feathers into a waterproof covering. In kiwis, the wings are almost impossible to detect. Yet diversity among birds is not as striking as it is among mammals. The difference between a hummingbird and an emu is great, but hardly as dramatic as that between a bat and a whale. It is variations in details rather than in fundamental patterns that have been important in the adaptation of birds to many kinds of ecosystems. 1. In the passage, the phrase peculiar to is closest in meaning to a. Necessary for b. Important to c. Symbolic of d. Unique to 2. The word categorize in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Appreciate b. Comprehend c. Classify d. Visualize 3. The word showy in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Ornamental b. Powerful c. Pale d. Graceful 4. Which of the following is closest in meaning to the word detect in the passage? a. utilize b. observe c. extend d. describe 5. In the passage, the word diversity is closest in meaning to a. Function b. Heredity c. Specialty d. Variety 6. The word hardly in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Definitely b. Not nearly c. Possibly d. Not softly 7. Which of the following could best be substituted for the word fundamental in the passage? a. Basic b. Shifting c. Predictable d. Complicated e. Bottom of Form IDENTIFYING THE WORD MEANING Worksheet - Answer Key Select the word that best fits the statement using the context clues provided. All birds have feathers, and feathers are peculiar to birds. No other major group of animals is easy to categorize. All birds have wings, too, but there are other winged creatures, such as bats and certain insects. Many adaptations are found in both feathers and wings. Feathers form the soft down of goose and ducks, the showy plumes of ostriches and egrets, and the strong flight feathers of eagles and condors. Wings vary from the short, broad ones of chickens, which seldom fly, to the long, slim ones of albatrosses, which spend almost all their lives soaring on air currents. In penguins, wings have been modified into flippers and feathers into a waterproof covering. In kiwis, the wings are almost impossible to detect. Yet diversity among birds is not as striking as it is among mammals. The difference between a hummingbird and an emu is great, but hardly as dramatic as that between a bat and a whale. It is variations in details rather than in fundamental patterns that have been important in the adaptation of birds to many kinds of ecosystems. 1. In the passage, the phrase peculiar to is closest in meaning to a. Necessary for b. Important to c. Symbolic of d. Unique to 2. The word categorize in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Appreciate b. Comprehend c. Classify d. Visualize 3. The word showy in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Ornamental b. Powerful c. Pale d. Graceful 4. Which of the following is closest in meaning to the word detect in the passage? a. utilize b. observe c. extend d. describe 5. In the passage, the word diversity is closest in meaning to a. Function b. Heredity c. Specialty d. Variety 6. The word hardly in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Definitely b. Not nearly c. Possibly d. Not softly 7. Which of the following could best be substituted for the word fundamental in the passage? a. Basic b. Shifting c. Predictable d. Complicated e. Bottom of Form IDENTIFYING THE WORD MEANING Worksheet Select the word that best fits the statement using the context clues provided. Where are the most biologically diverse places on the planet? Most common answers are the Amazon rainforest in Brazil or the jungles of India. But another rich source of biodiversity is actually underwater. Off the north-eastern coast of Australia live thousands of species of fish, birds, and reptiles. Their home is the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef. Stretching over 1,600 miles, the Great Barrier Reef is as long as the distance from Boston to Miami in the United States. It covers more than 133,000 square miles, and it is even visible from outer space. Scientists believe that the reef is around 500,000 years old, but it has shifted forms several times during its existence. The reef has most likely had its present topography for 6,000-8,000 years. The reef may look like a rock, but it’s actually alive. Coral reefs are underwater structures that are made by corals—tiny animals that are related to jellyfish. The corals have tender bodies that are vulnerable to attack, so they secrete a hard substance called calcium carbonate to protect their exteriors. The calcium carbonate builds up until it makes formations that look like rocks to the human eye. Coral reefs grow best in warm, shallow, clear water that receives a lot of sunshine. Around a quarter of all marine species live in coral reefs, and these reefs play an important role in supporting diversity in the ocean. Charles Darwin, the famous biologist who first proposed the scientific theory of evolution, described the coral reef as an oasis in the desert of the ocean. Though tropical waters typically provide very little nutrients, the coral reefs that exist in tropical waters are among the richest and most diverse ecosystems on Earth. Hundreds of different coral species make up the various structures composing the Great Barrier Reef. Within these structures, several ecosystems flourish. Ecosystems are complex systems that contain several species that interact with one another. The Great Barrier Reef is home to over 1,500 species of fish. But it’s not just fish that live in the reef. The reef also provides food and shelter to sponges, whales, dolphins, marine turtles, and molluscs. 1. In the passage, the word diverse is closest in meaning to a. Contradictory b. Varied c. Identical d. Unique 2. The word rich in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Wealthy b. Plentiful c. Affluent d. Colorful 3. The word tender in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Breakable b. Tough c. Immature d. Callous 4. Which of the following is closest in meaning to the word flourish in the passage? a. expand b. decrease c. accomplish d. blossom 5. In the passage, the word vulnerable is closest in meaning to a. defenseless b. sensitive c. protected d. naked 6. The word complex in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Simple b. Complicated c. Homogenous d. Abstract IDENTIFYING THE WORD MEANING Worksheet - Answer Key Select the word that best fits the statement using the context clues provided. Where are the most biologically diverse places on the planet? Most common answers are the Amazon rainforest in Brazil or the jungles of India. But another rich source of biodiversity is actually underwater. Off the north-eastern coast of Australia live thousands of species of fish, birds, and reptiles. Their home is the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef. Stretching over 1,600 miles, the Great Barrier Reef is as long as the distance from Boston to Miami in the United States. It covers more than 133,000 square miles, and it is even visible from outer space. Scientists believe that the reef is around 500,000 years old, but it has shifted forms several times during its existence. The reef has most likely had its present topography for 6,000-8,000 years. The reef may look like a rock, but it’s actually alive. Coral reefs are underwater structures that are made by corals—tiny animals that are related to jellyfish. The corals have tender bodies that are vulnerable to attack, so they secrete a hard substance called calcium carbonate to protect their exteriors. The calcium carbonate builds up until it makes formations that look like rocks to the human eye. Coral reefs grow best in warm, shallow, clear water that receives a lot of sunshine. Around a quarter of all marine species live in coral reefs, and these reefs play an important role in supporting diversity in the ocean. Charles Darwin, the famous biologist who first proposed the scientific theory of evolution, described the coral reef as an oasis in the desert of the ocean. Though tropical waters typically provide very little nutrients, the coral reefs that exist in tropical waters are among the richest and most diverse ecosystems on Earth. Hundreds of different coral species make up the various structures composing the Great Barrier Reef. Within these structures, several ecosystems flourish. Ecosystems are complex systems that contain several species that interact with one another. The Great Barrier Reef is home to over 1,500 species of fish. But it’s not just fish that live in the reef. The reef also provides food and shelter to sponges, whales, dolphins, marine turtles, and molluscs. 1. In the passage, the word diverse is closest in meaning to a. Contradictory b. Varied c. Identical d. Unique 2. The word rich in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Wealthy b. Plentiful c. Affluent d. Colorful 3. The word tender in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Breakable b. Tough c. Immature d. Callous 4. Which of the following is closest in meaning to the word flourish in the passage? a. expand b. decrease c. accomplish d. blossom 5. In the passage, the word vulnerable is closest in meaning to a. defenseless b. sensitive c. protected d. naked 6. The word complex in the passage is closest in meaning to a. Simple b. Complicated c. Homogenous d. Abstract HESI Reading Comprehension Practice Test Questions Read the following stories and respond to the questions provided. 1. Born in 1914, Bessie Blount Griffin decided to become a medical professional. She originally received her nurse’s training at Newark Hospital in New Jersey and later studied physical therapy in Chicago. When the United States was embroiled in World War II, Griffin got involved in taking care of the wounded soldiers, and it was then that she began developing inventions to help them regain some form of self-care and independence. In 1951, Griffin designed an electronic feeding tube to help amputees feed themselves. The feeding tube was activated by the patient biting down on it to deliver a mouthful of liquefied food. The tone of this passage is: a. praising b. disapproving c. informative d. motivating 2. The American public's obsession with dieting has led to one of the most dangerous health misconceptions of all time. Many television ads, sitcoms, movies, magazine articles, and diet- food product labels would have consumers believe that carbohydrates are bad for the human body and that those who eat them will quickly become overweight. We are advised to avoid foods such as pasta, potatoes, rice and white bread and opt for meats and vegetables instead. Carbohydrates are macronutrients, meaning they are essential sources of fuel that are necessary for survival. Contrary to popular belief, carbohydrates have many health benefits; however, the key to maintaining a healthy body is to consume these and other macronutrients – such as protein and fat – in appropriate amounts. Which of the sentences in this passage expresses a fact? a. Carbohydrates are macronutrients, meaning they are essential sources of fuel that are necessary for survival. b. We are advised to avoid foods such as pasta, potatoes, rice and white bread c. Carbohydrates are bad for the human body and that those who eat them will quickly become overweight d. The American public's obsession with dieting has led to one of the most dangerous health misconceptions of all time. 3. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in all cells of the body. The body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help in digesting foods. The body produces most cholesterol naturally, and it is found in some foods. Blood cholesterol used to be thought of as a problem only for adults. What can you infer from this passage? a. blood cholesterol is no longer a problem for adults b. only children have a problem with blood cholesterol c. blood cholesterol affects both adults and children d. cholesterol is only produced in the body 4. When people think of carnivorous plants, they may believe that it is one of the strongest plants to exist. These carnivorous plants are built to survive in places that other plants cannot. This specialization comes at a cost. They have a hard time adapting to other environments. Their strengths become weaknesses in rich soil. They depend on the harsh yet delicate environments in which they thrive. They are not so hardy after all. Still, there's something to be said about the power of life when one finds a plant that can survive in barren soil. What is the main idea of this passage? a. Carnivorous plants are not hard to take care of because they feed themselves. b. Carnivorous plants are delicate because they need certain conditions to survive. c. Carnivorous plants are difficult to keep at home, but you should keep trying. d. Carnivorous plants are inspirational and they are interesting to watch and own. 5. Technically, a web is not just anything a spider makes out of silk; it is a silk structure made to catch prey. Only about half of the known spider species catch prey by means of webs. Other spiders, including members of the wolf spider, jumping spider, ground spider, sac spider, lynx spider, and other spider families, actively hunt for prey or sit and wait for prey to come to them (trap door spiders, crab spiders, and others). Hunting spiders use their silk for the dragline (the single thread all spiders leave behind them when they walk), the egg sac, and in some species, the retreat (a little silk "house" the spider rests in), but do not make true webs. What can be inferred from the passage above? a. all spiders build webs b. spiders that build webs don’t build egg sacs c. silk is used by all spiders d. all spiders use webs to catch prey 6. For years, many people knew the story of Helen Keller, but most were unaware of the life of her tutor, Anne Sullivan. Despite being blind herself, she was able to teach her blind and deaf student, Helen Keller, how to communicate. However, the legacy of Anne Sullivan was not forgotten. Her life’s work and journey teaching Helen was dramatized in the very successful play, The Miracle Worker. The play was such a hit that it was adapted for both television and film. What is the meaning of the word “dramatized” as used in this passage? a. theatrical b. falsified c. adapted d. emphasized 7. You will find this text to be an invaluable resource as you continue your French studies. Regardless of whether you are learning French for travel, professional activity, or academic pursuit