HESI A2
Reading Comprehension HESI A2
1. Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?
- A. It is a good gift to give at the party
- B. Gifts are never unwanted
- C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
- D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.
2. What is the main idea of the passage?
- A. Bicycles have become a common mode of transportation worldwide.
- B. The first modern bicycle was invented in 1818 in Germany.
- C. Innovations and improvements in bicycle design have made bicycles popular for recreation and transportation globally.
- D. Bicycles are now built, used, and enjoyed globally.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that innovations and improvements in bicycle design have made bicycles one of the most popular means of recreation and transportation worldwide. The passage outlines the evolution of bicycles from their early designs to the modern versions, emphasizing how these changes have contributed to their popularity. Choice A is incorrect because it focuses only on the current status of bicycles, while the main idea encompasses the evolution and improvements in design. Choice B is incorrect as it mentions the invention of the first modern bicycle but does not address the overall impact of innovations on bicycle popularity. Choice D is incorrect as it simply states a fact without capturing the essence of the passage, which is about the impact of design improvements.
3. 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.
4. Based on this passage, what can the reader infer about the advice physicians will give their pregnant patients about coffee consumption?
- A. Almost all of them will advise women to stop drinking any caffeine until after the baby is born.
- B. The majority will ignore the study altogether and continue to advise caffeine in moderation as before.
- C. All of them will demand additional research be done before they change what they tell their patients.
- D. Some will continue to make their normal recommendations about caffeine, while others will be more cautious than before.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The passage implies that there is variability in physician responses to the study about caffeine consumption. Some doctors may continue their standard recommendations, while others might advise more caution based on the new evidence. Therefore, option D reflects this variability in professional opinions and is the correct inference.
5. Which of the following statements is an opinion?
- A. The connection between sleep and weight should be explored.
- B. Many young children average only eight hours of sleep a night.
- C. People who sleep less are more likely to be obese.
- D. Researchers in New Zealand studied almost 600 children.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The statement that the connection between sleep and weight should be explored reflects a personal viewpoint rather than an objective fact. It indicates a belief that further research is warranted to understand this relationship better, making it an opinion and distinguishing it from the other factual statements presented in the passage.
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