why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant

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. Which sound waves have a higher pitch?

A. Those waves that are closer together
B. Those waves that are farther apart
C. Those waves that travel a long distance
D. Those waves that travel a short distance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sound waves that are closer together have a higher pitch. This is explained by the Doppler Effect, where as a source of sound moves closer to an observer, the waves are compressed, resulting in a higher frequency and a higher pitch. Conversely, when the source moves away, the waves are stretched, leading to a lower frequency and a lower pitch. Therefore, choice A is correct. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the relationship between sound wave frequency and pitch.

3. The passage lists all of these benefits of omega-3s EXCEPT ___________.

A. Reduced blood pressure
B. Less risk of diabetes
C. Improved memory
D. Alleviated depression

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The passage mentions reduced blood pressure, improved memory, and alleviated depression as potential benefits of omega-3s but does not mention a reduced risk of diabetes.

4. Which statement could be inferred from the passage?

A. The Georgia lab had conducted a previous study on the connection between exercise and energy.
B. Exercise regimes are not recommended for patients with serious health problems.
C. An increase in energy levels does not always correspond directly to a reduction in fatigue.
D. There were fewer than 10 participants in each group in the Georgia study.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The passage mentions a previous study by the same team on the connection between exercise and energy, indicating that the lab had conducted such research before. Choice B is incorrect because the passage actually states that low-impact exercise can help reduce fatigue in patients with serious health conditions. Choice C is incorrect as the passage indicates that an increase in energy levels does correspond to a reduction in fatigue. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not provide information on the exact number of participants in each group.

5. What would be the best title for this passage?

A. Being a Team in PE
B. A New Kind of Grade
C. Learning Martial Arts
D. PE for School and Life

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best title for this passage is 'PE for School and Life' as it encapsulates the broader purpose of physical education described in the extract. The passage emphasizes teaching students lifelong fitness habits, instilling lessons about maintaining good health, staying fit, and introducing exercise that can be incorporated into their lives. The focus is on fitness as a lifelong skill rather than just a short-term activity for a good grade. Choice A, 'Being a Team in PE,' is incorrect as the passage highlights individual exercise and movement rather than team-based activities. Choice B, 'A New Kind of Grade,' is also incorrect as the passage mentions a shift in grading towards effort rather than specific performance tasks. Choice C, 'Learning Martial Arts,' is too narrow as the passage discusses a variety of activities beyond martial arts that are taught in modern PE classes.