what is the authors reason for writing the passage on the white elephant

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What is the author's reason for writing the passage on the White Elephant?

A. To inform readers about Thailand's historical customs.
B. To entertain readers with the origins of the term 'white elephant.'
C. To explain the tradition of giving white elephants.
D. To criticize the tradition of giving white elephants as gifts.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To explain the tradition of giving white elephants.' The passage provides historical context about the practice of giving white elephants as gifts in ancient Siam, now Thailand. It explains how white elephants were considered sacred, could not be put to work, and became a burden to the recipients. The author's purpose is to shed light on this tradition and its implications, not to inform readers about Thailand in general (choice A), entertain with fun facts (choice B), or criticize the tradition (choice D). Choices A and B are incorrect because the passage focuses specifically on the tradition of giving white elephants, not on broader aspects of Thailand or entertainment. Choice D is incorrect because the passage does not criticize the tradition but rather provides a factual account of its historical significance.

2. Which of the following is not listed as a detail in the passage?

A. Many patients die each year from medical error.
B. Lifewings Partners educates patients on consumer safety.
C. Steve Harden is the founder of Lifewings Partners.
D. The most common medical error is overmedication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage discusses the dangers of medical errors and provides specific examples of such errors but does not indicate that overmedication is the most common error. Therefore, since option D is not supported by the text, it is the correct choice for what is not mentioned.

3. In this passage, which of these is not mentioned as a possible sign of heat exhaustion?

A. Dizziness
B. Nausea
C. Headache
D. Drowsiness

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage mentions dizziness, nausea, and headache as symptoms but does not list drowsiness.

4. What is the main idea of the passage about Toxins and Your Health?

A. Environmental toxins may have dire health effects over time.
B. Of three toxins studied, lead has the worst effect on health.
C. Toxins may accumulate in the bones of older patients.
D. Johns Hopkins University has discovered a new use for lead.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the long-term effects of environmental toxins such as lead, pesticides, and mercury on brain health, particularly as individuals age. Dr. Brian Schwartz's quote highlights the link between environmental exposure and cognitive decline, framing the entire discussion around the potential health ramifications of such exposure over time. This clearly aligns with choice A, making it the main idea of the passage.

5. What is the meaning of the word supplementation as used in the second paragraph?

A. Extra
B. Organization
C. Attachment
D. Revision

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The term "supplementation" refers to the addition of nutrients to the diet. In the context of the passage, it highlights the need for seniors to receive extra nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D beyond what they typically consume in their diets. This reflects the understanding that seniors may not get sufficient nutrition solely from their regular meals, supporting option A.