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. In context, the word 'defective' in the first sentence of the passage means which of the following?

A. Unusual
B. Remarkable
C. Postponed
D. Faulty

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the context provided, 'defective' means faulty, referring to the gene that causes cystic fibrosis (CF). The passage explains that CF is caused by a defective gene, resulting in the production of abnormally thick and sticky fluid. The word 'defective' suggests that the gene is not functioning correctly, leading to the symptoms associated with the disease. Therefore, 'faulty' is the correct choice. The other options, 'unusual,' 'remarkable,' and 'postponed,' do not accurately capture the meaning of 'defective' in this context and are therefore incorrect.

3. What is the meaning of the word conform as used in the first paragraph?

A. Authorize
B. Fit in
C. Hand over
D. Bewilder

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, "conform" means to fit in with societal norms or standards, particularly those related to beauty. The passage describes how individuals may compromise their health to meet these cultural ideals, indicating that conformity relates to adhering to social expectations of beauty, making option B the correct interpretation.

4. What is the meaning of the word innocuous as used in the first paragraph?

A. Undiscovered
B. Harmless
C. Imperceptible
D. Purposeless

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The word "innocuous" in this context means harmless, indicating that most nail abnormalities are not dangerous.

5. What is the meaning of the word consensus as it is used in the last paragraph about Barefoot Running?

A. Investigation.
B. Purpose.
C. Trepidation.
D. Unanimity.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: "Consensus" refers to a general agreement or unanimity among individuals, particularly regarding the safety and effectiveness of barefoot running. The passage discusses differing opinions on this subject, indicating that there is not a unanimous agreement. Thus, choice D accurately captures the meaning of "consensus" within the context of the discussion.