4 HESI A2 Practice Tests (2020)
4 HESI A2 Practice Tests (2020) helps you pass with expert-reviewed materials and study tips.
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ISBN: 978-1-26-046222-7
MHID: 1-26-046222-6
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This is a copyrighted work and McGraw-Hill Education and its licensors
reserve all rights in and to the work. Use of this work is subject to these
terms. Except as permitted under the Copyright Act of 1976 and the right to
store and retrieve one copy of the work, you may not decompile, disassemble,
reverse engineer, reproduce, modify, create derivative works based upon,
transmit, distribute, disseminate, sell, publish or sublicense the work or any
part of it without McGraw-Hill Education’s prior consent. You may use the
work for your own noncommercial and personal use; any other use of the
work is strictly prohibited. Your right to use the work may be terminated if
as permitted under the United States Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this
publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, or
stored in a database or retrieval system, without the prior written permission
of the publisher.
ISBN: 978-1-26-046222-7
MHID: 1-26-046222-6
The material in this eBook also appears in the print version of this title:
ISBN: 978-1-26-046221-0, MHID: 1-26-046221-8.
eBook conversion by codeMantra
Version 1.0
All trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Rather than put a
trademark symbol after every occurrence of a trademarked name, we use
names in an editorial fashion only, and to the benefit of the trademark owner,
with no intention of infringement of the trademark. Where such designations
appear in this book, they have been printed with initial caps.
McGraw-Hill Education eBooks are available at special quantity discounts to
use as premiums and sales promotions or for use in corporate training
programs. To contact a representative, please visit the Contact Us page at
www.mhprofessional.com.
TERMS OF USE
This is a copyrighted work and McGraw-Hill Education and its licensors
reserve all rights in and to the work. Use of this work is subject to these
terms. Except as permitted under the Copyright Act of 1976 and the right to
store and retrieve one copy of the work, you may not decompile, disassemble,
reverse engineer, reproduce, modify, create derivative works based upon,
transmit, distribute, disseminate, sell, publish or sublicense the work or any
part of it without McGraw-Hill Education’s prior consent. You may use the
work for your own noncommercial and personal use; any other use of the
work is strictly prohibited. Your right to use the work may be terminated if
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THE WORK IS PROVIDED “AS IS.” McGRAW-HILL EDUCATION
AND ITS LICENSORS MAKE NO GUARANTEES OR WARRANTIES
AS TO THE ACCURACY, ADEQUACY OR COMPLETENESS OF OR
RESULTS TO BE OBTAINED FROM USING THE WORK, INCLUDING
ANY INFORMATION THAT CAN BE ACCESSED THROUGH THE
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McGraw-Hill Education and its licensors do not warrant or guarantee that the
functions contained in the work will meet your requirements or that its
operation will be uninterrupted or error free. Neither McGraw-Hill Education
nor its licensors shall be liable to you or anyone else for any inaccuracy, error
or omission, regardless of cause, in the work or for any damages resulting
therefrom. McGraw-Hill Education has no responsibility for the content of
any information accessed through the work. Under no circumstances shall
McGraw-Hill Education and/or its licensors be liable for any indirect,
incidental, special, punitive, consequential or similar damages that result
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Dedicated to the extraordinary nurses at Memorial Sloan-Kettering.
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Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction to the A2
A2 Versus Other Nursing School Exams
Planning to Take the A2
Scoring the A2
Parts of the Test
Chapter 2 Tips and Strategies for Test Takers
How to Use This Book
Strategies for Top Scores
A2 Training Schedule
Chapter 3 A2 Practice Test 1
Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
Grammar
Basic Math Skills
Biology
Chemistry
Anatomy and Physiology
Physics
Answer Key
Explanatory Answers
Chapter 4 A2 Practice Test 2
Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
Grammar
Basic Math Skills
Biology
Chemistry
Chapter 1 Introduction to the A2
A2 Versus Other Nursing School Exams
Planning to Take the A2
Scoring the A2
Parts of the Test
Chapter 2 Tips and Strategies for Test Takers
How to Use This Book
Strategies for Top Scores
A2 Training Schedule
Chapter 3 A2 Practice Test 1
Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
Grammar
Basic Math Skills
Biology
Chemistry
Anatomy and Physiology
Physics
Answer Key
Explanatory Answers
Chapter 4 A2 Practice Test 2
Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
Grammar
Basic Math Skills
Biology
Chemistry
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Anatomy and Physiology
Physics
Answer Key
Explanatory Answers
Chapter 5 A2 Practice Test 3
Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
Grammar
Basic Math Skills
Biology
Chemistry
Anatomy and Physiology
Physics
Answer Key
Explanatory Answers
Chapter 6 A2 Practice Test 4
Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
Grammar
Basic Math Skills
Biology
Chemistry
Anatomy and Physiology
Physics
Answer Key
Explanatory Answers
Physics
Answer Key
Explanatory Answers
Chapter 5 A2 Practice Test 3
Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
Grammar
Basic Math Skills
Biology
Chemistry
Anatomy and Physiology
Physics
Answer Key
Explanatory Answers
Chapter 6 A2 Practice Test 4
Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
Grammar
Basic Math Skills
Biology
Chemistry
Anatomy and Physiology
Physics
Answer Key
Explanatory Answers
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T
CHAPTER 1
Introduction to the A2
his book contains four practice tests for the HESI A2 (Admission
Assessment Exam). They follow the format used in the A2 online exam.
Taking these practice tests will give you a good idea of what you’ll encounter
when you take the real exam. As you complete the tests, you’ll become
familiar with the directions, structure, and content that you’re likely to see at
the testing site.
A2 VERSUS OTHER NURSING SCHOOL
EXAMS
Who Takes the A2 Exam?
The A2 Exam is used for admission to certain nursing schools. It is a product
of Evolve Learning Systems, a division of Elsevier Publishing. Different
nursing programs require different exams; for example, some schools expect
applicants to take the Nursing Entrance Test (NET) or the Test of Essential
Academic Skills (TEAS). Other schools give you a variety of entrance exams
from which to choose. Still others require the A2 exclusively.
How Do I Know Whether I Should Take the A2
Exam?
To know whether the school or schools of your choice require the A2, visit
their websites or call their admissions offices. They may call this particular
test the HESI A2 test, the Evolve Reach A2 test, or the Admission
Assessment Exam. Before you begin to study, make sure that you are
studying for the correct test. You may need to use McGraw-Hill Education 5
TEAS Practice Tests or Nursing School Entrance Exams instead.
CHAPTER 1
Introduction to the A2
his book contains four practice tests for the HESI A2 (Admission
Assessment Exam). They follow the format used in the A2 online exam.
Taking these practice tests will give you a good idea of what you’ll encounter
when you take the real exam. As you complete the tests, you’ll become
familiar with the directions, structure, and content that you’re likely to see at
the testing site.
A2 VERSUS OTHER NURSING SCHOOL
EXAMS
Who Takes the A2 Exam?
The A2 Exam is used for admission to certain nursing schools. It is a product
of Evolve Learning Systems, a division of Elsevier Publishing. Different
nursing programs require different exams; for example, some schools expect
applicants to take the Nursing Entrance Test (NET) or the Test of Essential
Academic Skills (TEAS). Other schools give you a variety of entrance exams
from which to choose. Still others require the A2 exclusively.
How Do I Know Whether I Should Take the A2
Exam?
To know whether the school or schools of your choice require the A2, visit
their websites or call their admissions offices. They may call this particular
test the HESI A2 test, the Evolve Reach A2 test, or the Admission
Assessment Exam. Before you begin to study, make sure that you are
studying for the correct test. You may need to use McGraw-Hill Education 5
TEAS Practice Tests or Nursing School Entrance Exams instead.
Loading page 10...
PLANNING TO TAKE THE A2
When Is the A2 Given, and How Do I Register for
It?
The exam is given at a variety of sites, often at nursing schools or community
colleges. The dates of the exam may depend on the application dates for the
nursing school where you take the test. Some schools offer the test every few
weeks throughout the year. You may also take the exam at one of more than
350 Prometric™ testing sites around the country.
To register for an exam, first set up an Evolve account at
evolve.elsevier.com/cs. Once you successfully create an account, you should
see the HESI Assessment-Student Access link under "My Content." Choose a
test date and pay your fee.
To take the exam at the nursing school or community college of your
choice, log on to that school’s website to learn how to sign up for the next
available test.
To take the exam at a Prometric site, start by setting up an account on the
Evolve Elsevier site listed above. Submit a registration to take a distance
exam. Use the confirmation information you receive to log on to
http://www.prometric.com/Elsevier. Clicking on “Admission Assessment,”
typing your zip code, and listing a range of dates lets you locate the testing
site and date that best suit your needs. From there, you may follow the
directions to schedule the test at a time convenient for you.
You will pay for the test online when you set up your test date. You will
need your credit or debit card and your school's ID number. Use your school-
related email address if you have one.
When Should I Take the A2?
Check with your chosen nursing programs to find out when they need score
transcripts. Then work backward from that date to determine when you
should take the test.
If you take the test at the nursing school that you hope to attend, the date
of the test will be designed to mesh with that school’s application dates.
When Is the A2 Given, and How Do I Register for
It?
The exam is given at a variety of sites, often at nursing schools or community
colleges. The dates of the exam may depend on the application dates for the
nursing school where you take the test. Some schools offer the test every few
weeks throughout the year. You may also take the exam at one of more than
350 Prometric™ testing sites around the country.
To register for an exam, first set up an Evolve account at
evolve.elsevier.com/cs. Once you successfully create an account, you should
see the HESI Assessment-Student Access link under "My Content." Choose a
test date and pay your fee.
To take the exam at the nursing school or community college of your
choice, log on to that school’s website to learn how to sign up for the next
available test.
To take the exam at a Prometric site, start by setting up an account on the
Evolve Elsevier site listed above. Submit a registration to take a distance
exam. Use the confirmation information you receive to log on to
http://www.prometric.com/Elsevier. Clicking on “Admission Assessment,”
typing your zip code, and listing a range of dates lets you locate the testing
site and date that best suit your needs. From there, you may follow the
directions to schedule the test at a time convenient for you.
You will pay for the test online when you set up your test date. You will
need your credit or debit card and your school's ID number. Use your school-
related email address if you have one.
When Should I Take the A2?
Check with your chosen nursing programs to find out when they need score
transcripts. Then work backward from that date to determine when you
should take the test.
If you take the test at the nursing school that you hope to attend, the date
of the test will be designed to mesh with that school’s application dates.
Loading page 11...
Which Modules of the A2 Must I Take?
The A2 contains several modules in the areas of English language,
mathematics, and science. Not all nursing programs require every module. If
you take the test at a nursing school or community college, the school will
probably only test you on the modules that its nursing program requires. For
example, some programs do not require any of the science modules. Some
require Reading Comprehension and Grammar, but not Vocabulary and
General Knowledge. If you wish to send transcripts to several schools, visit
their websites to learn which modules they require. Then make sure that the
site where you are taking the test offers all of those modules.
What Do I Need on the Day of the Test?
The A2 is only available online. You must present one form of government-
issued identification. Passports, driver’s licenses, or green cards are fine;
credit cards or student IDs are not.
You may need your payment or a copy of your payment receipt. You will
definitely need the username and password assigned to you by Elsevier when
you registered for the test.
You may not use any resources such as calculators or reference books. A
basic calculator is included in the software. You may not carry in a cell
phone, tablet, or other electronic device. You may not bring food or
beverages into the testing site.
SCORING THE A2
How Is the A2 Scored?
The A2 consists of eight academic modules. Your scores may be reported in
three ways—as a percentage score for each module administered; as a
subject-area composite score (for all science modules, for example); and as a
composite score (the average score for all the modules you complete).
When Will I Receive My Score?
As soon as you complete your online test, you will receive a printed score
The A2 contains several modules in the areas of English language,
mathematics, and science. Not all nursing programs require every module. If
you take the test at a nursing school or community college, the school will
probably only test you on the modules that its nursing program requires. For
example, some programs do not require any of the science modules. Some
require Reading Comprehension and Grammar, but not Vocabulary and
General Knowledge. If you wish to send transcripts to several schools, visit
their websites to learn which modules they require. Then make sure that the
site where you are taking the test offers all of those modules.
What Do I Need on the Day of the Test?
The A2 is only available online. You must present one form of government-
issued identification. Passports, driver’s licenses, or green cards are fine;
credit cards or student IDs are not.
You may need your payment or a copy of your payment receipt. You will
definitely need the username and password assigned to you by Elsevier when
you registered for the test.
You may not use any resources such as calculators or reference books. A
basic calculator is included in the software. You may not carry in a cell
phone, tablet, or other electronic device. You may not bring food or
beverages into the testing site.
SCORING THE A2
How Is the A2 Scored?
The A2 consists of eight academic modules. Your scores may be reported in
three ways—as a percentage score for each module administered; as a
subject-area composite score (for all science modules, for example); and as a
composite score (the average score for all the modules you complete).
When Will I Receive My Score?
As soon as you complete your online test, you will receive a printed score
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report from the proctor.
How Do I Submit My Score to Nursing Programs?
Your testing fee automatically includes the submission of scores to the school
where you took the test. If you took the test at a Prometric center, or if you
want your transcript sent to additional schools, order transcripts from Elsevier
via its website or by calling 1-800-950-2728. Elsevier will charge a
processing fee for each transcript sent.
Is My Score Good Enough?
Whether your score is acceptable depends on the program to which you are
applying. Some nursing programs have specific cutoff points for each
module. Others require a certain composite score.
Some nursing programs allow you to take the A2 two or three times if
your first scores are unacceptable. They may require you to wait several
weeks or months between exams. Again, the rules vary from program to
program.
PARTS OF THE TEST
The A2 is divided into eight academic modules within three broad content
areas: English language, mathematics, and science. In addition, the A2 may
include a section on critical thinking, which may be graded or ungraded, plus
one or two ungraded tests under the heading “Learner Profile.” This chart
shows the number of items (which may vary year to year) and time suggested
for each section. Notice that ungraded pilot items are included in most
modules. These are used to build tests in future years. Because the test is
given online, the times given are only suggestions that will allow you to
complete the entire test within a reasonable time.
How Do I Submit My Score to Nursing Programs?
Your testing fee automatically includes the submission of scores to the school
where you took the test. If you took the test at a Prometric center, or if you
want your transcript sent to additional schools, order transcripts from Elsevier
via its website or by calling 1-800-950-2728. Elsevier will charge a
processing fee for each transcript sent.
Is My Score Good Enough?
Whether your score is acceptable depends on the program to which you are
applying. Some nursing programs have specific cutoff points for each
module. Others require a certain composite score.
Some nursing programs allow you to take the A2 two or three times if
your first scores are unacceptable. They may require you to wait several
weeks or months between exams. Again, the rules vary from program to
program.
PARTS OF THE TEST
The A2 is divided into eight academic modules within three broad content
areas: English language, mathematics, and science. In addition, the A2 may
include a section on critical thinking, which may be graded or ungraded, plus
one or two ungraded tests under the heading “Learner Profile.” This chart
shows the number of items (which may vary year to year) and time suggested
for each section. Notice that ungraded pilot items are included in most
modules. These are used to build tests in future years. Because the test is
given online, the times given are only suggestions that will allow you to
complete the entire test within a reasonable time.
Loading page 13...
FORMAT TIP
Rarely will anyone be administered every module on the A2. Check
with your preferred nursing program to see which modules it requires.
Depending on the modules required, the typical test may run from three
to four hours.
Reading Comprehension
Reading items test your comprehension of informational reading passages.
You will be asked to read a short, multiparagraph passage and answer a
variety of questions about it. Some of the most common skills tested involve
the following:
• Main idea
• Supporting details
• Meanings of words in context
• Author’s purpose
• Fact and opinion
Rarely will anyone be administered every module on the A2. Check
with your preferred nursing program to see which modules it requires.
Depending on the modules required, the typical test may run from three
to four hours.
Reading Comprehension
Reading items test your comprehension of informational reading passages.
You will be asked to read a short, multiparagraph passage and answer a
variety of questions about it. Some of the most common skills tested involve
the following:
• Main idea
• Supporting details
• Meanings of words in context
• Author’s purpose
• Fact and opinion
Loading page 14...
• Drawing conclusions and making inferences
• Summarizing
• Author’s tone
The passages used for A2 all have a science or health theme and may be
typical of the type of reading you will do in your professional life.
FORMAT TIP
With the exception of some math questions, all questions on the A2 are
multiple choice and give you four possible choices from which to pick.
Here is an example of an A2 reading comprehension question. On the test
itself, most reading passages will be longer than this one.
Counterfeit medicine may be contaminated, or it may contain the
wrong or no active ingredient. Counterfeit medicine is illegal and may
be dangerous. The quality, safety, and efficacy of counterfeit medicines
are not known. Counterfeit medicine is often sold illegally over the
Internet or by illegal operators posing as licensed pharmacies.
1. What is the author’s primary purpose in writing this passage?
A. To inform
B. To persuade
C. To entertain
D. To analyze
Explanatory Answer: This question tests your understanding of the
author’s purpose or intent. This author defines counterfeit medicine and
presents some facts about it, which indicates that the purpose is to
inform (choice A). The author makes no judgments or calls to action, as
might take place in a persuasive essay (choice B), and there is no
analysis or in-depth investigation of the topic (choice D).
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
This section of the test includes vocabulary terms that appear regularly in
• Summarizing
• Author’s tone
The passages used for A2 all have a science or health theme and may be
typical of the type of reading you will do in your professional life.
FORMAT TIP
With the exception of some math questions, all questions on the A2 are
multiple choice and give you four possible choices from which to pick.
Here is an example of an A2 reading comprehension question. On the test
itself, most reading passages will be longer than this one.
Counterfeit medicine may be contaminated, or it may contain the
wrong or no active ingredient. Counterfeit medicine is illegal and may
be dangerous. The quality, safety, and efficacy of counterfeit medicines
are not known. Counterfeit medicine is often sold illegally over the
Internet or by illegal operators posing as licensed pharmacies.
1. What is the author’s primary purpose in writing this passage?
A. To inform
B. To persuade
C. To entertain
D. To analyze
Explanatory Answer: This question tests your understanding of the
author’s purpose or intent. This author defines counterfeit medicine and
presents some facts about it, which indicates that the purpose is to
inform (choice A). The author makes no judgments or calls to action, as
might take place in a persuasive essay (choice B), and there is no
analysis or in-depth investigation of the topic (choice D).
Vocabulary and General Knowledge
This section of the test includes vocabulary terms that appear regularly in
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health care contexts as well as in general and academic use. You may be
asked to select a word or phrase that defines an underlined word in a sentence
or to identify a synonym for a given word.
Here are two examples of A2 vocabulary questions.
1. Select the correct definition of the underlined word.
The patient received a potent dose of sleeping medication.
A. Average
B. Invasive
C. Powerful
D. Initial
Explanatory Answer: Potent means “strong,” so a potent dose is a
strong, or powerful, dose (choice C).
2. A person who is compliant is ___________.
A. flexible
B. obedient
C. whiny
D. appreciative
Explanatory Answer: To comply is to act in accordance with a rule or
request, so someone who is compliant is obedient (choice B).
Grammar
The grammar section requires you to locate sentences that are grammatically
correct, words or phrases that are not used correctly, and words that best
complete a sentence to make it grammatically correct. Questions might focus
on any of the following topics, among others:
• Subject-verb agreement
• Pronoun-antecedent agreement
• Misplaced modifiers
• Pronoun case
• Serial commas
asked to select a word or phrase that defines an underlined word in a sentence
or to identify a synonym for a given word.
Here are two examples of A2 vocabulary questions.
1. Select the correct definition of the underlined word.
The patient received a potent dose of sleeping medication.
A. Average
B. Invasive
C. Powerful
D. Initial
Explanatory Answer: Potent means “strong,” so a potent dose is a
strong, or powerful, dose (choice C).
2. A person who is compliant is ___________.
A. flexible
B. obedient
C. whiny
D. appreciative
Explanatory Answer: To comply is to act in accordance with a rule or
request, so someone who is compliant is obedient (choice B).
Grammar
The grammar section requires you to locate sentences that are grammatically
correct, words or phrases that are not used correctly, and words that best
complete a sentence to make it grammatically correct. Questions might focus
on any of the following topics, among others:
• Subject-verb agreement
• Pronoun-antecedent agreement
• Misplaced modifiers
• Pronoun case
• Serial commas
Loading page 16...
• Sentence fragments
• Run-on sentences
• Troublesome word pairs (between/among, good/well, fewer/less,
its/it’s, lie/lay, etc.)
Here are two examples of A2 grammar questions.
1. Select the word or phrase that makes this sentence grammatically
correct.
Could you please hand ___________ the tongue depressors?
A. myself
B. me
C. I
D. ourselves
Explanatory Answer: The pronoun required is an object pronoun (it
receives the action of the verb), so only me (choice B) completes the
sentence correctly.
2. Select the correct order of words to fit the sentence structure.
The students placed ___________ finished essays over
___________; ___________ glad to be done.
A. there, their, they’re
B. they’re, there, their
C. their, there, they’re
D. their, they’re, there
Explanatory Answer: The essays belong to the students and thus are
their essays. They placed them in that spot, there. They are (they’re)
glad to be done. The correct answer is choice C.
FORMAT TIP
For questions with multiple answers like the preceding one, all answers
must be correct. There is no partial credit.
• Run-on sentences
• Troublesome word pairs (between/among, good/well, fewer/less,
its/it’s, lie/lay, etc.)
Here are two examples of A2 grammar questions.
1. Select the word or phrase that makes this sentence grammatically
correct.
Could you please hand ___________ the tongue depressors?
A. myself
B. me
C. I
D. ourselves
Explanatory Answer: The pronoun required is an object pronoun (it
receives the action of the verb), so only me (choice B) completes the
sentence correctly.
2. Select the correct order of words to fit the sentence structure.
The students placed ___________ finished essays over
___________; ___________ glad to be done.
A. there, their, they’re
B. they’re, there, their
C. their, there, they’re
D. their, they’re, there
Explanatory Answer: The essays belong to the students and thus are
their essays. They placed them in that spot, there. They are (they’re)
glad to be done. The correct answer is choice C.
FORMAT TIP
For questions with multiple answers like the preceding one, all answers
must be correct. There is no partial credit.
Loading page 17...
Basic Math Skills
The mathematics section of the A2 focuses on the sort of math you may need
to use on the job. For that reason, there is an unusual emphasis on
measurements and fractions. Here are some of the subskills that you might
see on the test:
• Computation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) with
whole numbers
• Computation with decimals
• Computation with fractions
• Fractions, decimals, and percentages
• Ratios and proportions
• Money
• Military time
• Roman numerals
• Measurement conversions
FORMAT TIP
A few items in the math section may be short answer—you must
compute the answer rather than choosing from four possible responses.
Here are two examples of A2 basic math questions.
1. Multiply: (4.3)(3.4) =
A. 146.2
B. 14.62
C. 12.12
D. 7.7
Explanatory Answer: Many questions of this sort may be easily
answered by estimating. 4.3 × 3.4 will be somewhere midway between 4
× 3 and 4 × 4, so choices A and D are clearly incorrect. The answer is
choice B.
2. How many fluid ounces are in a pint? (Enter numeric value only.)
The mathematics section of the A2 focuses on the sort of math you may need
to use on the job. For that reason, there is an unusual emphasis on
measurements and fractions. Here are some of the subskills that you might
see on the test:
• Computation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) with
whole numbers
• Computation with decimals
• Computation with fractions
• Fractions, decimals, and percentages
• Ratios and proportions
• Money
• Military time
• Roman numerals
• Measurement conversions
FORMAT TIP
A few items in the math section may be short answer—you must
compute the answer rather than choosing from four possible responses.
Here are two examples of A2 basic math questions.
1. Multiply: (4.3)(3.4) =
A. 146.2
B. 14.62
C. 12.12
D. 7.7
Explanatory Answer: Many questions of this sort may be easily
answered by estimating. 4.3 × 3.4 will be somewhere midway between 4
× 3 and 4 × 4, so choices A and D are clearly incorrect. The answer is
choice B.
2. How many fluid ounces are in a pint? (Enter numeric value only.)
Loading page 18...
___________
Explanatory Answer: There are 8 ounces in a cup and 2 cups in a pint,
so the answer is 16.
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Know your conversions, especially liquid measurements. Study a chart
of metric-to-standard conversions, too! No conversion chart appears
with the test, so you must have these memorized.
Biology
The biology tested on the A2 is basic, which does not mean that it is easy.
Expect to see questions on any of these topics:
• Scientific method
• Taxonomy
• Molecules
• Cells
• Photosynthesis
• Cellular reproduction
• Genetics
Here are two examples of A2 biology questions.
1. What is the result of meiosis II?
A. Two secondary sex cells
B. Four haploid daughter cells
C. Two primary sex cells
D. Duplication of primary sex cells
Explanatory Answer: Mitosis results in two primary sex cells (choice
C), and meiosis I leads to two secondary sex cells (choice A). In meiosis
II, the resulting four cells have half the chromosomes of the parent cell.
The answer is choice B.
Explanatory Answer: There are 8 ounces in a cup and 2 cups in a pint,
so the answer is 16.
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Know your conversions, especially liquid measurements. Study a chart
of metric-to-standard conversions, too! No conversion chart appears
with the test, so you must have these memorized.
Biology
The biology tested on the A2 is basic, which does not mean that it is easy.
Expect to see questions on any of these topics:
• Scientific method
• Taxonomy
• Molecules
• Cells
• Photosynthesis
• Cellular reproduction
• Genetics
Here are two examples of A2 biology questions.
1. What is the result of meiosis II?
A. Two secondary sex cells
B. Four haploid daughter cells
C. Two primary sex cells
D. Duplication of primary sex cells
Explanatory Answer: Mitosis results in two primary sex cells (choice
C), and meiosis I leads to two secondary sex cells (choice A). In meiosis
II, the resulting four cells have half the chromosomes of the parent cell.
The answer is choice B.
Loading page 19...
2. Which organelle in animal cells is most similar in function to the
chloroplast in plant cells?
A. Cell membrane
B. Vacuole
C. Ribosome
D. Mitochondrion
Explanatory Answer: Chloroplasts are the site of photosynthesis, or
energy conversion, in plants. Mitochondria are the site of respiration, or
energy conversion, in animals. The answer is choice D.
Chemistry
Organic and inorganic chemistry are tested on the A2. All health
professionals should have a basic understanding of chemistry. You may find
questions on any of these topics:
• States of matter
• Atomic structure
• Chemical equations
• Chemical reactions
• Acids and bases
• Radioactivity
• Chemical bonds
• Molarity
• Stoichiometry
• Reaction rates
• Redox reactions
• Electron configurations
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Review the periodic table of elements, and know the basics! Unlike
some tests, the A2 doesn’t show you the table.
Here are two examples of A2 chemistry questions.
chloroplast in plant cells?
A. Cell membrane
B. Vacuole
C. Ribosome
D. Mitochondrion
Explanatory Answer: Chloroplasts are the site of photosynthesis, or
energy conversion, in plants. Mitochondria are the site of respiration, or
energy conversion, in animals. The answer is choice D.
Chemistry
Organic and inorganic chemistry are tested on the A2. All health
professionals should have a basic understanding of chemistry. You may find
questions on any of these topics:
• States of matter
• Atomic structure
• Chemical equations
• Chemical reactions
• Acids and bases
• Radioactivity
• Chemical bonds
• Molarity
• Stoichiometry
• Reaction rates
• Redox reactions
• Electron configurations
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Review the periodic table of elements, and know the basics! Unlike
some tests, the A2 doesn’t show you the table.
Here are two examples of A2 chemistry questions.
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1. What is the expected pH of orange juice?
A. Between 3.0 and 4.0
B. Between 6.0 and 7.0
C. Between 8.0 and 9.0
D. Between 11.0 and 12.0
Explanatory Answer: Orange juice is fairly acidic, meaning that it
would fall toward the lower end of the pH scale. The answer is A.
2. Sodium’s ground state electron configuration may be represented as
1s22s22p63s. How many energy levels does sodium have?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 6
Explanatory Answer: The first energy level of any atom contains just
an s subshell. The second may include an s and a p subshell. Looking at
sodium in table form may make this easier to solve:
1s2
2s2 2p6
3s
Sodium, in other words, has electrons in three energy levels, so the
answer is C. In the first level, it has two electrons in subshell s. In the
second level, it has two electrons in subshell s and six electrons in
subshell p. In the third level, it has one electron in subshell s. Adding up
the electrons, 2 + 2 + 6 + 1, gives you the total number of electrons in
sodium, or sodium’s atomic number, 11.
Anatomy and Physiology
This is the part of biological sciences that applies specifically to nursing—the
human body and its systems, organs, and processes. You may see any of
these topics on the A2:
A. Between 3.0 and 4.0
B. Between 6.0 and 7.0
C. Between 8.0 and 9.0
D. Between 11.0 and 12.0
Explanatory Answer: Orange juice is fairly acidic, meaning that it
would fall toward the lower end of the pH scale. The answer is A.
2. Sodium’s ground state electron configuration may be represented as
1s22s22p63s. How many energy levels does sodium have?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 6
Explanatory Answer: The first energy level of any atom contains just
an s subshell. The second may include an s and a p subshell. Looking at
sodium in table form may make this easier to solve:
1s2
2s2 2p6
3s
Sodium, in other words, has electrons in three energy levels, so the
answer is C. In the first level, it has two electrons in subshell s. In the
second level, it has two electrons in subshell s and six electrons in
subshell p. In the third level, it has one electron in subshell s. Adding up
the electrons, 2 + 2 + 6 + 1, gives you the total number of electrons in
sodium, or sodium’s atomic number, 11.
Anatomy and Physiology
This is the part of biological sciences that applies specifically to nursing—the
human body and its systems, organs, and processes. You may see any of
these topics on the A2:
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• Cells and tissues
• Body planes and directions
• Skeletal system
• Muscular system
• Nervous system
• Endocrine system
• Circulatory system
• Respiratory system
• Digestive system
• Urinary system
• Reproductive system
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Review basic anatomical directions (proximal, distal, and so on) and
know your organs and functions!
Here are two examples of A2 anatomy and physiology questions.
1. Which arm bone is most proximal to the shoulder?
A. Radius
B. Ulna
C. Humerus
D. Carpal
Explanatory Answer: To be proximal is to be close to the point of
attachment. The radius (choice A) and ulna (choice B) are forearm
bones, and the carpal (choice D) is in the wrist. Of the four bones listed,
the humerus (choice C) is the arm bone that is closest to the shoulder.
2. Somatotropin is secreted by the ___________.
A. pituitary gland
B. adrenal glands
C. hypothalamus
D. thyroid
• Body planes and directions
• Skeletal system
• Muscular system
• Nervous system
• Endocrine system
• Circulatory system
• Respiratory system
• Digestive system
• Urinary system
• Reproductive system
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Review basic anatomical directions (proximal, distal, and so on) and
know your organs and functions!
Here are two examples of A2 anatomy and physiology questions.
1. Which arm bone is most proximal to the shoulder?
A. Radius
B. Ulna
C. Humerus
D. Carpal
Explanatory Answer: To be proximal is to be close to the point of
attachment. The radius (choice A) and ulna (choice B) are forearm
bones, and the carpal (choice D) is in the wrist. Of the four bones listed,
the humerus (choice C) is the arm bone that is closest to the shoulder.
2. Somatotropin is secreted by the ___________.
A. pituitary gland
B. adrenal glands
C. hypothalamus
D. thyroid
Loading page 22...
Explanatory Answer: Somatotropin is also known as growth hormone.
It is secreted by the pituitary, which regulates growth. The answer is
choice A.
Physics
This section of the test focuses specifically on those skills a radiologist or
other imaging scientist might need. Most of the physics section is set up as
problems. Tested topics may include:
• Speed and acceleration
• Momentum
• Linear and rotational motion
• Newton’s laws
• Kinetic and potential energy
• Gravitation
• Wave classification and theory
• Optics
• Static electricity
• Coulomb’s law
• Electric fields and charges
• Currents, voltage, and resistance
• Ohm’s law
Here are two examples of A2 physics questions.
1. A go-kart is set into motion with an initial speed of 5 m/sec. It moves for
20 seconds. At the end of that time, its speed is 25 m/sec. What is the
magnitude of the go-kart’s acceleration?
A. 1.0 m/sec2
B. 2.5 m/sec2
C. 15 m/sec2
D. 20 m/sec2
Explanatory Answer: Find acceleration by dividing the change in
velocity by the length of time the object is in motion:
It is secreted by the pituitary, which regulates growth. The answer is
choice A.
Physics
This section of the test focuses specifically on those skills a radiologist or
other imaging scientist might need. Most of the physics section is set up as
problems. Tested topics may include:
• Speed and acceleration
• Momentum
• Linear and rotational motion
• Newton’s laws
• Kinetic and potential energy
• Gravitation
• Wave classification and theory
• Optics
• Static electricity
• Coulomb’s law
• Electric fields and charges
• Currents, voltage, and resistance
• Ohm’s law
Here are two examples of A2 physics questions.
1. A go-kart is set into motion with an initial speed of 5 m/sec. It moves for
20 seconds. At the end of that time, its speed is 25 m/sec. What is the
magnitude of the go-kart’s acceleration?
A. 1.0 m/sec2
B. 2.5 m/sec2
C. 15 m/sec2
D. 20 m/sec2
Explanatory Answer: Find acceleration by dividing the change in
velocity by the length of time the object is in motion:
Loading page 23...
The answer is A.
2. In one minute, 15 waves break onto the shore. What is the frequency of
the waves?
A. 0.15 Hz
B. 0.2 Hz
C. 0.25 Hz
D. 0.4 Hz
Explanatory Answer: To find frequency, first find period, the time in
seconds between one crest and the next. In this case,
Frequency is the reciprocal of period, expressed in seconds −1, or Hertz.
The answer is choice C.
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Review all your basic formulas—especially those for motion, force and
work, power, gravitation, and electricity. Most physics questions will be
problems that require those equations.
Critical Thinking
You have not yet worked as a nurse, but your program administrators may
want to know how well you are able to apply common sense and critical
thinking to specific nursing situations. This section may set up scenarios and
ask you to choose among four strategies to triage patients or to deal with a
specific medical or ethical situation. It looks at your ability to solve
2. In one minute, 15 waves break onto the shore. What is the frequency of
the waves?
A. 0.15 Hz
B. 0.2 Hz
C. 0.25 Hz
D. 0.4 Hz
Explanatory Answer: To find frequency, first find period, the time in
seconds between one crest and the next. In this case,
Frequency is the reciprocal of period, expressed in seconds −1, or Hertz.
The answer is choice C.
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Review all your basic formulas—especially those for motion, force and
work, power, gravitation, and electricity. Most physics questions will be
problems that require those equations.
Critical Thinking
You have not yet worked as a nurse, but your program administrators may
want to know how well you are able to apply common sense and critical
thinking to specific nursing situations. This section may set up scenarios and
ask you to choose among four strategies to triage patients or to deal with a
specific medical or ethical situation. It looks at your ability to solve
Loading page 24...
problems, to prioritize, to dissect arguments, to interpret data, and to
overcome biases.
Some nursing programs use the Critical Thinking section as a pre- and
posttest to see how well students improve over the course of training. Others
require a particular score for entry. There is no way to study for this section,
although some students recommend reading through a practical nursing guide
if you know that your chosen nursing program requires a high score on this
section.
Learning Style
This part of the test, which is not graded, assesses your preferred learning
style and provides you with study tips based on your responses. Because you
cannot study for this part of the test, which is purely subjective, we will not
cover it in this book.
Personality Profile
This ungraded part of the A2 determines your level of introversion or
extroversion and classifies your personality type. It is primarily to be used by
your teachers in your chosen nursing program. We will not discuss this part
of the test in this book.
overcome biases.
Some nursing programs use the Critical Thinking section as a pre- and
posttest to see how well students improve over the course of training. Others
require a particular score for entry. There is no way to study for this section,
although some students recommend reading through a practical nursing guide
if you know that your chosen nursing program requires a high score on this
section.
Learning Style
This part of the test, which is not graded, assesses your preferred learning
style and provides you with study tips based on your responses. Because you
cannot study for this part of the test, which is purely subjective, we will not
cover it in this book.
Personality Profile
This ungraded part of the A2 determines your level of introversion or
extroversion and classifies your personality type. It is primarily to be used by
your teachers in your chosen nursing program. We will not discuss this part
of the test in this book.
Loading page 25...
CHAPTER 2
Tips and Strategies for Test Takers
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
Preparing for the A2 ahead of time is worth the effort. This book will help
you to do the following:
• Familiarize yourself with the test format
• Recognize the skills tested on the A2
• Practice your test-taking skills using sample A2 exams
Here is a practical study program that will help you make the best use of
this book. The amount of study and review you do between tests will depend
on what weaknesses you discover as you assess your responses and compare
them to the explanatory answers that follow each test.
Step 1: Think About Your Weaknesses
If it has been a long time since you took biology or thought about parts of
speech or algebraic equations, you might want to brush up on those long-lost
skills. Chapter 1 of this book lists the major skills that are covered on the A2.
If your preferred nursing program requires some of the science sections of the
A2, you may need to review formulas, anatomy, the periodic table, and so on
—even before you take your first practice test.
Build some review time into your test-prep schedule. Pull out your old
textbooks, go to the library, or do some online review. McGraw-Hill
Education offers a study guide specifically focused on A2 skills and
concepts: McGraw-Hill Education HESI A2 Review.
Step 2: Take the Practice Tests
There are three practice tests, and each contains eight modules, just as the
Tips and Strategies for Test Takers
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
Preparing for the A2 ahead of time is worth the effort. This book will help
you to do the following:
• Familiarize yourself with the test format
• Recognize the skills tested on the A2
• Practice your test-taking skills using sample A2 exams
Here is a practical study program that will help you make the best use of
this book. The amount of study and review you do between tests will depend
on what weaknesses you discover as you assess your responses and compare
them to the explanatory answers that follow each test.
Step 1: Think About Your Weaknesses
If it has been a long time since you took biology or thought about parts of
speech or algebraic equations, you might want to brush up on those long-lost
skills. Chapter 1 of this book lists the major skills that are covered on the A2.
If your preferred nursing program requires some of the science sections of the
A2, you may need to review formulas, anatomy, the periodic table, and so on
—even before you take your first practice test.
Build some review time into your test-prep schedule. Pull out your old
textbooks, go to the library, or do some online review. McGraw-Hill
Education offers a study guide specifically focused on A2 skills and
concepts: McGraw-Hill Education HESI A2 Review.
Step 2: Take the Practice Tests
There are three practice tests, and each contains eight modules, just as the
Loading page 26...
real A2 does. If you know which modules are required by your chosen school
or schools, focus on those and ignore the others. As you take each test, try to
simulate actual test conditions. Sit in a quiet room, time yourself, and work
through as much of the test as time allows. If you wish, take a break after
each section of the test. When you are done, check your answers against the
explanatory answers that follow the test you took. Use the explanatory
answers to figure out where you went wrong on any questions you did not
answer correctly.
The practice tests in this book are parallel. This means that in most cases,
similarly numbered questions on tests 1, 2, and 3 will measure the same sort
of skill. This fact will help you to determine where your problem areas are.
For example, if you consistently miss question number 3 in the Basic Math
Skills section of practice tests 1, 2, and 3, you will know that you need to
study up on the concept of ratios.
Keep in mind that you will be taking the real test online. That may affect
the speed with which you read questions or respond.
Step 3: Review and Improve
Each time you take a practice test, review the explanatory answers. Give
yourself a break of a few days. Then take the next practice test and see
whether you do better. Look for patterns. Did you miss the same kinds of
questions on practice tests 1 and 2? Make a list of skills to review, and do
some serious studying before you take practice test 3. If you have kept track
of your weaknesses and studied those skills in depth, you should see a
noticeable improvement in your score.
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
No review book or sample test will provide you with all the material
you need to study, especially when it comes to the Anatomy and
Physiology (A&P) section of the test. Pull out your old anatomy books
and spend some time reviewing before you take a practice test.
STRATEGIES FOR TOP SCORES
or schools, focus on those and ignore the others. As you take each test, try to
simulate actual test conditions. Sit in a quiet room, time yourself, and work
through as much of the test as time allows. If you wish, take a break after
each section of the test. When you are done, check your answers against the
explanatory answers that follow the test you took. Use the explanatory
answers to figure out where you went wrong on any questions you did not
answer correctly.
The practice tests in this book are parallel. This means that in most cases,
similarly numbered questions on tests 1, 2, and 3 will measure the same sort
of skill. This fact will help you to determine where your problem areas are.
For example, if you consistently miss question number 3 in the Basic Math
Skills section of practice tests 1, 2, and 3, you will know that you need to
study up on the concept of ratios.
Keep in mind that you will be taking the real test online. That may affect
the speed with which you read questions or respond.
Step 3: Review and Improve
Each time you take a practice test, review the explanatory answers. Give
yourself a break of a few days. Then take the next practice test and see
whether you do better. Look for patterns. Did you miss the same kinds of
questions on practice tests 1 and 2? Make a list of skills to review, and do
some serious studying before you take practice test 3. If you have kept track
of your weaknesses and studied those skills in depth, you should see a
noticeable improvement in your score.
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
No review book or sample test will provide you with all the material
you need to study, especially when it comes to the Anatomy and
Physiology (A&P) section of the test. Pull out your old anatomy books
and spend some time reviewing before you take a practice test.
STRATEGIES FOR TOP SCORES
Loading page 27...
As with any test, you can use certain strategies to improve your A2 score.
You already know whether you are better at math or at science, or whether
you understand grammar well enough to score high on that part of the test.
STUDY STRATEGIES
• Get to know the format of the exam. The practice tests in this book
are designed to be similar to what you will see on the A2.
• Get to know the test directions. The A2 is not different from other
multiple-choice tests you have taken over the years. There are always
four choices, and most questions are stand-alone or refer to a given
passage or problem. Only in the math section are there occasional
short-answer questions where choices are not given.
• Get to know what topics are covered. Chapter 1 lists the major skills
that are covered on the A2.
• Test and review. If possible, give yourself time to take each of the
practice tests in this book. These are long tests, so you will need to map
out big chunks of time with breaks in between. Do not plan to take
more than one test in a day. Study the answers, look for patterns, and
review those skills that consistently cause problems for you.
TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES
• Answer all the questions! Your time is limited across the entire test,
but depending on where you take the exam, you may be able to spend
more time on chemistry and less on reading comprehension if you
prefer. Unfortunately, the A2 is given in a format that does not allow
you to go back and review questions you may have had trouble on, so
do your best with each question as it is presented.
• Use the process of elimination. Even if you feel completely stumped,
you will probably be able to eliminate one or more choices simply by
using common sense. That improves your odds of getting the right
answer.
• When in doubt, guess. On the A2, every question has the same value,
and no points are taken off for guessing. Use the process of elimination,
but if you’re baffled, go ahead and guess. On multiple-choice questions
with four possible responses, you have a 25 percent chance of getting
the answer right by guessing. If you leave the answer blank, your
You already know whether you are better at math or at science, or whether
you understand grammar well enough to score high on that part of the test.
STUDY STRATEGIES
• Get to know the format of the exam. The practice tests in this book
are designed to be similar to what you will see on the A2.
• Get to know the test directions. The A2 is not different from other
multiple-choice tests you have taken over the years. There are always
four choices, and most questions are stand-alone or refer to a given
passage or problem. Only in the math section are there occasional
short-answer questions where choices are not given.
• Get to know what topics are covered. Chapter 1 lists the major skills
that are covered on the A2.
• Test and review. If possible, give yourself time to take each of the
practice tests in this book. These are long tests, so you will need to map
out big chunks of time with breaks in between. Do not plan to take
more than one test in a day. Study the answers, look for patterns, and
review those skills that consistently cause problems for you.
TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES
• Answer all the questions! Your time is limited across the entire test,
but depending on where you take the exam, you may be able to spend
more time on chemistry and less on reading comprehension if you
prefer. Unfortunately, the A2 is given in a format that does not allow
you to go back and review questions you may have had trouble on, so
do your best with each question as it is presented.
• Use the process of elimination. Even if you feel completely stumped,
you will probably be able to eliminate one or more choices simply by
using common sense. That improves your odds of getting the right
answer.
• When in doubt, guess. On the A2, every question has the same value,
and no points are taken off for guessing. Use the process of elimination,
but if you’re baffled, go ahead and guess. On multiple-choice questions
with four possible responses, you have a 25 percent chance of getting
the answer right by guessing. If you leave the answer blank, your
Loading page 28...
chance drops to zero.
• Beware of answer choices that look reasonable but are not correct.
Because most questions on the A2 are multiple choice, the test makers
have many chances to mislead you with tricky distracters (wrong
answers). Focus, use scratch paper to solve problems if it is allowed,
and use the process of elimination to help narrow your choices.
TIPS FOR TEST DAY
• Get a good night’s sleep. You need energy to face a test that is more
than three hours long, and you won’t have energy if you’re exhausted
from worry or from excessive last-minute review. If you have taken all
three practice tests, reviewed those skills that troubled you, and
improved your scores on your final test, you have done what you need
to do to succeed. Arriving at the test site well rested and alert will
improve your chances dramatically.
• Be careful as you indicate your answers. The computer-based A2
does not allow you to go back and fix questions. Make sure that you
answer questions as they are presented. If you use the calculator
provided in the software, double-check your answers.
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Buttons on the online calculator can occasionally “stick,” so be sure to
estimate your answers and not rely entirely on the calculator.
• Watch the time. Wear a watch and check yourself from time to time. If
you have timed yourself on the practice tests, you should be pretty good
at estimating the time you have left as you progress through the A2.
Individual sections may not be timed, but you may have an overall time
deadline; you will be told this as you begin the exam.
A2 TRAINING SCHEDULE
Are you ready to get started? Use this sample schedule to plan your attack.
• Beware of answer choices that look reasonable but are not correct.
Because most questions on the A2 are multiple choice, the test makers
have many chances to mislead you with tricky distracters (wrong
answers). Focus, use scratch paper to solve problems if it is allowed,
and use the process of elimination to help narrow your choices.
TIPS FOR TEST DAY
• Get a good night’s sleep. You need energy to face a test that is more
than three hours long, and you won’t have energy if you’re exhausted
from worry or from excessive last-minute review. If you have taken all
three practice tests, reviewed those skills that troubled you, and
improved your scores on your final test, you have done what you need
to do to succeed. Arriving at the test site well rested and alert will
improve your chances dramatically.
• Be careful as you indicate your answers. The computer-based A2
does not allow you to go back and fix questions. Make sure that you
answer questions as they are presented. If you use the calculator
provided in the software, double-check your answers.
TIPS FROM TEST TAKERS
Buttons on the online calculator can occasionally “stick,” so be sure to
estimate your answers and not rely entirely on the calculator.
• Watch the time. Wear a watch and check yourself from time to time. If
you have timed yourself on the practice tests, you should be pretty good
at estimating the time you have left as you progress through the A2.
Individual sections may not be timed, but you may have an overall time
deadline; you will be told this as you begin the exam.
A2 TRAINING SCHEDULE
Are you ready to get started? Use this sample schedule to plan your attack.
Loading page 29...
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CHAPTER 3
A2 Practice Test 1
READING COMPREHENSION
50 items | Suggested time: 55 minutes
High Fructose Corn Syrup
Lately, there has been a lot of discussion—within the medical community as
well as across the kitchen table—about the supposed harmful effects that high
fructose corn syrup (HFCS) has on the human body. Many people wonder if
its use as a sweetener is contributing to the population’s overall rate of
obesity.
In the late 1970s, many of the largest food manufacturers in the United
States shifted away from using refined table sugar to using the much cheaper
HFCS. Soon HFCS was used to sweeten many products including cereal,
steak sauce, soft drinks, bread, baked beans, and yogurt.
Table sugar and HFCS share a similar biochemical structure: both contain
the simple sugars glucose and fructose, though HFCS is produced from corn
and undergoes additional processing to increase the amount of fructose.
The American Medical Association does not take the view that one
sweetener is better or worse than another. However, researchers at Princeton
University have recently released a study showing that rats who consumed
HFCS gained more weight, especially in the abdominal area, than rats who
consumed table sugar.
Other medical professionals say that more research is needed before
conclusive results can be drawn. Meanwhile, nearly everyone can agree that
both table sugar and HFCS are high in calories—nearly 50 per tablespoon—
and that neither form of sweetener provides any measurable nutritional value.
1. What is the main idea of the passage?
A. The American Medical Association has identified preferred
A2 Practice Test 1
READING COMPREHENSION
50 items | Suggested time: 55 minutes
High Fructose Corn Syrup
Lately, there has been a lot of discussion—within the medical community as
well as across the kitchen table—about the supposed harmful effects that high
fructose corn syrup (HFCS) has on the human body. Many people wonder if
its use as a sweetener is contributing to the population’s overall rate of
obesity.
In the late 1970s, many of the largest food manufacturers in the United
States shifted away from using refined table sugar to using the much cheaper
HFCS. Soon HFCS was used to sweeten many products including cereal,
steak sauce, soft drinks, bread, baked beans, and yogurt.
Table sugar and HFCS share a similar biochemical structure: both contain
the simple sugars glucose and fructose, though HFCS is produced from corn
and undergoes additional processing to increase the amount of fructose.
The American Medical Association does not take the view that one
sweetener is better or worse than another. However, researchers at Princeton
University have recently released a study showing that rats who consumed
HFCS gained more weight, especially in the abdominal area, than rats who
consumed table sugar.
Other medical professionals say that more research is needed before
conclusive results can be drawn. Meanwhile, nearly everyone can agree that
both table sugar and HFCS are high in calories—nearly 50 per tablespoon—
and that neither form of sweetener provides any measurable nutritional value.
1. What is the main idea of the passage?
A. The American Medical Association has identified preferred
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Health Education Systems, Inc.