how did people regard a white elephant in ancient siam

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. Why was receiving a white elephant considered a burden in ancient Siam?

A. People tried to avoid receiving it, as it was a burden.
B. It was a symbol of honor and wealth.
C. It was used in ceremonial processes.
D. The people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Receiving a white elephant in ancient Siam was considered a burden because the animal, being sacred, couldn't be used for work like other elephants. The recipient had to bear the cost of feeding the elephant large amounts of fruit and maintaining it in a lavish manner. The ruler's displeasure if the gift was not accepted graciously added to the pressure. This financial strain often led recipients to financial ruin. Therefore, people tried to avoid receiving a white elephant to prevent these financial consequences. Choice B is incorrect because the white elephant was not considered a symbol of honor and wealth but rather a burden. Choice C is incorrect as the white elephant was not primarily used in ceremonial processes but was a gift that came with financial responsibilities. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not mention that people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift, but rather the opposite.

2. What is the meaning of the word innocuous as used in the first paragraph?

A. Undiscovered
B. Harmless
C. Imperceptible
D. Purposeless

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The word "innocuous" in this context means harmless, indicating that most nail abnormalities are not dangerous.

3. The main idea of the passage is ___________.

A. The CDC keeps an eye out for new potentially threatening health issues
B. Children require several more hours of sleep per night than adults do
C. More people are staying up at night to surf the Internet or watch television
D. Lack of adequate sleep is becoming a major national health problem

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that lack of adequate sleep is becoming a major national health problem.

4. Choose the best summary of the passage about Sunny-Side Up.

A. Light-skinned people need a maximum of 15 minutes a day in direct sunlight to achieve the benefits of the sun’s rays.
B. Spending too much time indoors can wreak havoc with your circadian rhythms, leach vitamin D from your bones, and damage your immune system.
C. Although negative effects of sunlight are well known, people should be aware that some sunlight is necessary and beneficial.
D. You can avoid direct sunlight but still reap the benefits of a day in the sun by using sunscreen or tinted glass.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The best summary captures the essence of the passage, which acknowledges the well-known negative effects of sunlight while also emphasizing the necessity and benefits of sunlight exposure. C accurately reflects this balanced view, making it the most appropriate choice.

5. The information presented is:

A. Slanted in favor of newscasters
B. Slanted against people with deep voices
C. Balanced in its approach
D. Not applicable

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The information is balanced in its approach. While the extract mentions that women tend to have shriller voices, making them less desirable public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates, it does not show bias in favor of newscasters or against people with deep voices. The main focus is on the impact of voice qualities such as harshness, rather than promoting or criticizing any specific group.