what is the purpose of white elephants in the tradition mentioned in the passage

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. 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.

2. What is one of the author’s primary purposes in writing this essay?

A. To persuade
B. To entertain
C. To analyze
D. To reflect

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The author primarily aims to persuade the reader of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and encourages ensuring sufficient omega-3 intake through diet.

3. What conclusion can be drawn about the article?

A. The author explains differences in eating methods.
B. Eating habits vary across different cultures.
C. Space travel has posed challenges for eating habits.
D. Chopsticks are more suitable than forks for space travel.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The passage discusses different eating methods in various cultures, focusing on their differences. The author describes the development of cutlery in European cultures, the use of chopsticks in China, and how space travel has influenced eating tools for astronauts. Choice B is incorrect because the passage emphasizes the differences rather than the similarities in eating habits across cultures. Choice C is partially supported by the passage as it mentions that space travel has created new challenges for consuming food, but it is not the main conclusion of the article. Choice D is not directly supported by the passage as it discusses the challenges of using chopsticks and forks in space rather than stating that chopsticks are superior to forks.

4. What is the main idea of the passage about MRSA?

A. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant problem both within and outside of hospitals, and there are ways to mitigate the risk.
B. A new textile made of nanomaterials could significantly reduce the spread of hospital-associated MRSA infections.
C. There are multiple strains of MRSA, and they pose various risks beyond just fatality.
D. MRSA is a significant problem both within and outside of hospitals, but there are ways to mitigate the risk.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that MRSA is a significant issue both within and outside of hospitals. It highlights the challenges posed by MRSA, including its resistance to antibiotics, high mortality rates, and widespread presence in various settings. While the development of new technologies like nanomaterial textiles shows promise in reducing hospital-associated MRSA, the passage also emphasizes the importance of practicing good hygiene to prevent community-associated MRSA infections. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not capture the comprehensive overview of MRSA provided in the passage. Choice A encompasses the main idea by emphasizing the significance of MRSA and ways to mitigate the risk. Choice B focuses on a specific solution rather than the broader issue of MRSA. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the risks associated with MRSA strains by only mentioning fatality.

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.