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 implied by the author's mention of the Kayapo people in the passage on the Amazon Rainforest?
- A. The Kayapo people destroy the environment for farming.
- B. The Kayapo people farm in an environmentally friendly way.
- C. The Kayapo people contribute to deforestation.
- D. The Kayapo people hunt animals for survival.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The mention of the Kayapo people in the passage highlights how they farm in an environmentally friendly manner. Instead of using chemicals, they enrich the soil by burning wood and plant banana trees, attracting wasps that feed on harmful insects. This sustainable farming practice showcases their efforts to coexist with the rainforest ecosystem without causing harm. The other choices are incorrect: A is refuted by the passage as the Kayapo people are described as farming in an environmentally friendly way, C is incorrect as the passage does not mention the Kayapo people contributing to deforestation, and D is not supported by the text as there is no mention of the Kayapo people hunting animals for survival.
3. What is stated about Benjamin Franklin's role in Daylight Savings Time?
- A. Benjamin Franklin invented Daylight Savings Time.
- B. Benjamin Franklin proposed the concept of Daylight Savings Time.
- C. Benjamin Franklin opposed Daylight Savings Time.
- D. Benjamin Franklin had no connection to Daylight Savings Time.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Benjamin Franklin is credited with proposing the idea of Daylight Savings Time, as stated in the extract. However, it was not implemented during his lifetime. Choice A is incorrect because he proposed, not invented, Daylight Savings Time. Choice C is incorrect as there is no mention of Franklin opposing it. Choice D is incorrect as the extract clearly states his connection to the proposal of Daylight Savings Time.
4. What is implied by this paragraph about food and drink?
- A. We should eat and drink in reasonable quantities.
- B. Alcohol should be banned.
- C. People should eat in large quantities.
- D. We need stronger laws to control drunk drivers.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The paragraph emphasizes that while food and drink are necessary and desirable, their abuse can lead to serious physical and mental problems. It highlights the negative consequences of overeating and alcohol abuse, such as strain on the heart, diabetes, and other health issues. The text suggests the importance of moderation in consumption to prevent health problems. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the paragraph does not call for a ban on alcohol, promote eating in large quantities, or specifically discuss the need for stronger laws to control drunk drivers.
5. What does the word 'obligatory' mean in the context of the passage on Daylight Savings Time?
- A. Approved.
- B. Sparse.
- C. Requisite.
- D. Aberrant.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the passage, Daylight Savings Time is presented as something that must be done by law, making it a requirement or something obligatory. 'Requisite' fits this meaning. 'Approved' (choice A) does not convey the sense of necessity as 'obligatory' does. 'Sparse' (choice B) means thinly dispersed and does not relate to the context. 'Aberrant' (choice D) means deviating from the norm, which is not applicable in this context.
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