how did the people regard a white elephant

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. How were white elephants regarded by the people of Siam?

A. If a village elder received a white elephant, the entire village shared in the supply of meat.
B. White elephants were highly prized as they were very hard workers in the cane fields.
C. The people of Siam vied for the honor of receiving the king's gift or a white elephant.
D. White elephants were a financial burden despite being considered sacred.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. In the culture of Siam, white elephants were highly regarded as sacred and receiving one as a gift from the king was considered an honor. It was a symbol of prestige and status to receive the king's gift of a white elephant. Option A is incorrect as white elephants were not used for meat supply. Option B is also incorrect as white elephants were not prized for their work but rather for their symbolic value. Option D is partially correct but does not capture the full significance of white elephants in Siam.

2. Which might be a good title for this passage about Barefoot Running?

A. Everyone Should Run Barefoot
B. How to Prevent Running Injuries
C. Modern Road Surfaces Versus Barefoot Running
D. The Debate over Barefoot Running

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The title 'The Debate over Barefoot Running' captures the main discussion in the passage.

3. Which is not mentioned as a possible result of being spanked in childhood?

A. Aggression
B. Coercive sex
C. Delinquency
D. Incontinence

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Incontinence.' The passage discusses the negative consequences of spanking in childhood, such as increased aggression, delinquent behavior, and future sexual problems like coercive sex. However, incontinence is not mentioned as a possible result of being spanked. Therefore, it is the correct choice. Choices A, B, and C are all supported by the passage, making them incorrect answers.

4. What was the author's primary purpose for writing this essay?

A. To inform the reader about the stages of the water cycle
B. To explain how rain is formed
C. To persuade readers to preserve water
D. To inform the reader about water's importance in life

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The author's primary purpose for writing this essay is to inform the readers about the stages of the water cycle. The essay explains how water moves through the cycle, including processes like precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choice A is correct because the focus is on educating readers about the water cycle, not just explaining how rain is formed (Choice B), persuading readers to preserve water (Choice C), or discussing water's importance in life (Choice D). The detailed explanation of the water cycle provided in the extract supports the correct answer.