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 was the author’s primary purpose for writing this essay?
- A. To persuade the reader to conserve water
- B. To persuade the reader that runoff is not the best way to collect water
- C. To analyze different types of runoff
- D. To inform the reader about the stages of the water cycle
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. The author's primary purpose for writing the essay is to inform the reader about the stages of the water cycle. The essay discusses the various stages of the water cycle, including precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the essay focuses on explaining the water cycle stages rather than persuading the reader to conserve water, discussing the effectiveness of runoff, or analyzing different types of runoff.
3. Which of the following statements is an opinion related to Super Foods?
- A. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids.
- B. Lentils are high in both protein and fiber.
- C. Pomegranates are delicious and healthful.
- D. Oats move slowly through the digestive tract.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The statement about pomegranates being delicious and healthful reflects a subjective opinion about taste and health benefits. This contrasts with the other options, which present factual information about the nutritional content of walnuts, lentils, and oats, making C the correct choice for an opinion.
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 is the meaning of the word overturn in the last paragraph of the passage?
- A. Justify
- B. Invalidate
- C. Support
- D. Review
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The word "overturn" means to invalidate or negate existing guidelines. In this context, the passage questions whether the findings of the study are substantial enough to change established medical recommendations regarding caffeine intake during pregnancy, making option B the appropriate choice.
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