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 the relationship between the tilt of the Earth and seasons as explained in the passage on Daylight Savings Time?
- A. The tilt of the Earth has no effect on seasons.
- B. The tilt of the Earth creates seasons.
- C. The tilt of the Earth changes throughout the year.
- D. The tilt of the Earth is random and unpredictable.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The tilt of the Earth creates seasons.' The passage explains that the tilt of the Earth causes the different seasons by changing the amount of sunlight different regions receive. This tilt results in varying angles at which sunlight reaches different parts of the Earth, leading to the seasonal changes in temperature and daylight hours. Choice A is incorrect because the passage clearly states that the tilt of the Earth does have an effect on the seasons. Choice C is incorrect because the tilt of the Earth remains relatively constant throughout the year. Choice D is incorrect as the tilt of the Earth is not random but follows a consistent pattern.
3. What does the passage about the Water Cycle explain?
- A. The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation.
- B. The water cycle is a continuous process of recycling water on Earth.
- C. Rain is the most important part of the water cycle.
- D. Evaporation is the final step in the water cycle.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation.' The passage explains the stages of the water cycle, starting with precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail) falling to the ground, followed by runoff, evaporation transforming liquid water into water vapor, and finally condensation turning water vapor back into liquid. Choice B is incorrect because it is too broad and doesn't specifically address the stages of the water cycle. Choice C is incorrect as rain is just one part of the water cycle and not the most important. Choice D is incorrect as evaporation is not the final step but one of the stages of the water cycle.
4. What does the passage on Bridge imply about playing the game?
- A. Playing bridge requires concentration.
- B. Bridge is only for older people.
- C. Bridge is extremely easy to learn.
- D. Bridge is too hard for beginners to learn.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The passage implies that playing bridge requires concentration, focus, and mental effort. It mentions that Bridge can be complicated for beginners but with time, effort, and a good teacher, even novices can become proficient. The description of the game's components, such as bidding and playing, highlights the need for the player's undivided attention. The passage doesn't suggest that Bridge is exclusively for older people (B), extremely easy to learn (C), or too hard for beginners to learn (D).
5. What is stated in the passage about the Olympic Games?
- A. The Olympic Games are held every four years.
- B. The Olympic Games are often postponed.
- C. The Olympic Games are held only in leap years.
- D. The Olympic Games only involve certain countries.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The Olympic Games are held every four years,' as stated in the passage. The extract explicitly mentions that the Summer Olympic Games are held every four years. Choice B is incorrect as there is no mention of the Olympic Games being often postponed in the passage. Choice C is incorrect because although the Olympic Games occur during leap years, they are not exclusively held only in leap years. Choice D is incorrect as there is no indication in the passage that the Olympic Games only involve certain countries.
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