what is the best title for the passage on bicycles

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What is the best title for the passage on bicycles?

A. Bicycles Are Better.
B. Cycle Your Way to Fitness.
C. A Ride through the History of Bicycles.
D. The Popularity of Bicycles.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'A Ride through the History of Bicycles.' This title best captures the passage's focus on the historical development and evolution of the bicycle from its invention to its modern form. Choice A, 'Bicycles Are Better,' is too general and doesn't encompass the historical aspect discussed in the passage. Choice B, 'Cycle Your Way to Fitness,' focuses solely on the fitness aspect of bicycles, ignoring the broader historical context. Choice D, 'The Popularity of Bicycles,' touches on one aspect but does not encompass the comprehensive historical journey presented in the passage.

2. The word 'track' as used in the last paragraph of the passage can best be defined as ___________.

A. Keep a record of
B. A new attitude
C. Follow carefully
D. A paved, circular path

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the context of the passage, 'track' refers to a 'paved, circular path' for running or walking. The last sentence of the passage encourages people to get off the couch and onto the track, indicating a physical path for exercise. Choice A, 'Keep a record of,' is incorrect as the context does not suggest any relation to recording information. Choice B, 'A new attitude,' is unrelated to the context of exercise and fatigue reduction. Choice C, 'Follow carefully,' does not fit the context of physical activity and energy levels discussed in the passage.

3. Where is Thailand located?

A. Africa
B. Europe
C. South America
D. Asia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Thailand is located in Asia, not South America. Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It shares borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. The extract provided also mentions the country of Siam, which is now known as Thailand, indicating its location in Asia. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as Thailand is not located in Africa, Europe, or South America.

4. What is the purpose of white elephants in the tradition mentioned in the passage?

A. White elephants are symbols of wealth and power.
B. White elephants represent unwanted and burdensome gifts.
C. White elephants are used in religious ceremonies.
D. White elephants are mythological creatures with no real use.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the tradition mentioned in the passage, white elephants were given as punishment gifts by rulers to those who displeased them. These white elephants were considered burdensome because they were sacred and could not be made to work like other elephants. The recipients had to bear the high maintenance costs and care for the white elephants in a lavish style, leading to financial burdens and sometimes impoverishment. This tradition originated the term 'white elephant' to denote unwanted gifts. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choice A is incorrect because white elephants were not symbols of wealth and power in this context; they were burdensome gifts. Choice C is incorrect as there is no mention of white elephants being used in religious ceremonies in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as white elephants in the tradition were real elephants, not mythological creatures with no practical use.

5. A reader might infer from this passage that ___________.

A. Obesity can be detrimental to a long life
B. Car crashes are most frequent in the United States
C. The Second Amendment should be overturned
D. People in Asia and Africa have the shortest life spans

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage indicates that obesity, along with other health-related issues, contributes to lower life expectancy. This implies that obesity can negatively affect one's lifespan, making option A the correct inference based on the information presented in the text. The other options do not accurately reflect the implications of the passage.