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 meaning of the word moderation as used in the second paragraph?
- A. Adequate amounts
- B. Intervals of time
- C. Excess
- D. Variation
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In this context, moderation means consuming adequate amounts of unsaturated fats. The passage highlights that unsaturated fats like olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial when consumed in appropriate quantities. Choice B, intervals of time, is incorrect as it does not relate to the consumption of fats. Choice C, excess, is incorrect because moderation implies avoiding excess consumption. Choice D, variation, is unrelated to the context of consuming fats in appropriate amounts.
3. What is the main idea of the passage about microbes?
- A. Recent discoveries are revealing the critical role of microorganisms in maintaining a properly functioning immune system.
- B. The human body is host to a staggering number of microorganisms.
- C. Bacteriotherapy reintroduces healthy bacteria into a colon lacking the capability to defend against pathogenic agents.
- D. Early research has shown remarkable discoveries in the possibilities of bacteriotherapy.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that recent discoveries are shedding light on the pivotal role of microorganisms in maintaining a properly functioning immune system. The passage discusses how the human body hosts a wide array of microorganisms, emphasizes the importance of these bacteria in the development of the immune system, and explores the potential applications of bacteriotherapy. Choice A is the correct answer because it accurately reflects the central theme discussed in the passage. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they focus on specific details or applications mentioned in the passage, rather than capturing the overarching theme of the critical role of microorganisms in immune system function.
4. Which detail is not given as a side effect of NSAIDs?
- A. Nausea
- B. Headache
- C. Weight loss
- D. Dizziness
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The passage lists several side effects of NSAIDs, including nausea, headache, and dizziness. However, weight loss is not mentioned as a side effect, making option C the correct choice since it does not align with the details provided in the text.
5. Which statement from the selection presents a fact rather than an opinion?
- A. One of the worst voice qualities is harshness
- B. Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw
- C. Your voice will sound unpleasant if it is shrill, grating, hard, piercing, brassy, too loud, or too nasal
- D. Because tension occurs in higher pitched voices, women tend to have shriller voices than men, which usually makes them less desirable public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Statement B, 'Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw,' presents a fact rather than an opinion. This statement provides a clear and objective observation about the potential cause of harsh voice qualities, based on physical tension in specific areas of the body, which can be objectively measured and identified. Choice A is an opinion as it states 'One of the worst voice qualities is harshness' without providing a verifiable basis. Choice C lists subjective descriptors of an unpleasant voice without stating a definite cause. Choice D introduces a gender-based assertion about voice quality, making it an opinion rather than a factual observation.
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