Main Idea & Purpose
Passage: Hand hygiene is a critical component of infection prevention. Many microorganisms are transmitted through direct contact. Healthcare workers frequently move between patients during a shift. Without proper handwashing, pathogens can spread easily. Effective hand hygiene reduces healthcare-associated infections.
Question: What is the main idea of this passage?
Hand hygiene helps prevent the spread of infection.
Passage: The patient sat quietly during the assessment. Eye contact was avoided and answers were brief and delayed. His hands were clenched tightly in the lap. The patients vital signs were slightly elevated.
Question: What can be inferred about the patient?
The patient may be anxious.
Passage: The event was well organized. Attendees arrived on time and activities ran smoothly. Feedback was positive as organizers considered it a success.
Question: What is the tone?
Positive.
Passage: The temperature reached 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Measurements were recorded hourly through weather instruments being calibrated. Data was consistent throughout the day. The results were reported accurately.
Question: Fact or opinion?
Fact.
Passage: The child was reluctant to enter the classroom. He paused at the doorway while his grip tightened on his backpack. He looked uncertain. Eventually, once he built up the courage, he stepped inside.
Question: What does “reluctant” mean?
Hesitant or unwilling.
Passage: Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health. It helps control blood glucose levels. Physical activity can reduce stress and anxiety. Many people report increased energy with consistent exercise. Overall, exercise contributes to better physical and mental health.
Question: Which statement best summarizes the passage?
Exercise provides multiple health benefits.
Passage: The restaurant was crowded. Orders took longer than usual and several customers checked their watches. Staff continued working quickly as a few left before being seated.
Question: What can be concluded?
The long wait frustrated some customers.
Passage: The new policy offers flexibility. Some benefits are clear however, challenges still remain. Implementation will take time and evaluation is ongoing.
Question: What is the tone?
Neutral or balanced.
Passage: The movie was very entertaining. The actors were excellent and the storyline was engaging. The pacing felt perfect; it was an outstanding film.
Question: Fact or opinion?
Opinion.
Passage: The manager responded promptly to the complaint. An email was sent immediately as the issue was addressed in a short period of time. Customers appreciated the response and the problem was resolved.
Question: What does “promptly” mean?
Quickly.
Passage: Accurate documentation is essential in nursing practice. It ensures continuity of care among healthcare providers. Documentation also provides legal protection for nurses. Incomplete records may lead to medical errors. Proper charting supports patient safety and quality care.
Question: What is the author’s primary purpose?
To explain why accurate documentation is important.
Passage: The student arrived early to class. Her notes were organized neatly. She had questions written in the margin. The students homework was submitted on time and her test scores were consistently high.
Question: What does this suggest about the student?
The student is well prepared and disciplined.
Passage: The proposal promises innovation. Supporting data is limited and sources are not clearly cited. Expected outcomes are vague and more information is needed.
Question: What is the author’s attitude?
Skeptical.
Passage: This is clearly the best phone available, other brands cannot compete. Consumers should choose this model.
Question: Does the passage show bias?
Yes.
Passage: The explanation clarified the instructions. Confusion was decreased and questions were answered. Students felt more confident as the lecture alleviated concerns.
Question:
What does “alleviated” mean?
Relieved.
Passage: Technology allows people to communicate instantly. Messages can be sent across the world in seconds. Despite this convenience, misunderstandings still occur. Tone and emotion are often unclear in text. Effective communication requires more than speed.
Question: What is the main idea?
Technology alone does not ensure effective communication.
Passage: After advertising costs were reduced, sales increased. Customer reviews improved while product quality remained the same. Word-of-mouth referrals increased and the marketing strategies changed.
Question: What is the most likely inference?
Answer: Positive customer experiences influenced sales more than advertising.
Passage: Early findings appear encouraging. The sample size is small and the long-term effects are unknown. Researchers are recommending further study. Conclusions need to be careful and aware.
Question:
What tone is conveyed?
Cautious.
Passage: The product is unquestionably superior. Competitors are outdated and limitations are not mentioned. Claims are exaggerated and evidence is minimal.
Question: Which phrase shows bias?
“Unquestionably superior.”
Passage: The building remained stable after the storm. There were no cracks and the power was restored quickly. Safety inspections were completed and there were no signs of deterioration.
Question:
What does “deterioration” mean?
Worsening.
Passage: Some hospitals schedule nurses for extended shifts. Supporters claim longer shifts improve efficiency. Research shows fatigue increases with longer hours. Fatigue may impair judgment and reaction time. Patient safety can be compromised as a result.
Question: What is the main idea of the passage?
Longer nursing shifts may negatively affect patient safety.
Passage: The city expanded bike lanes. Traffic congestion decreased slightly and public transportation use increased. Air quality improved and fewer commuters drove personal vehicles.
Question: What can be inferred?
Transportation changes affected commuter behavior.
Passage: The article praises the new program extensively. Potential drawbacks are briefly mentioned. Opposing opinions are excluded while the benefits are emphasized repeatedly. Objectivity is questionable.
Question: What is the tone?
Critical.
Passage: An article promotes a new diet plan. There are no scientific studies cited. While the success stories are highlighted, risks are not discussed. Claims appear to be one-sided.
Question: What should the reader question?
The credibility of the source.
Passage: The policy was designed to reduce risks. While preventive measures were added, potential problems were also identified early. Adjustments were made proactively and these actions helped mitigate issues.
Question: What does “mitigate” mean?
Reduce or lessen.