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. The word watchdog as used in the second paragraph of the passage can best be defined as ___________.

A. companion
B. guard
C. manager
D. punisher

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, "watchdog" refers to a guard or overseer, specifically relating to Lifewings Partners’ mission of ensuring safety and preventing medical errors. The organization acts as a monitor in healthcare settings, which aligns with the definition of a watchdog, confirming that option B is correct.

3. How were white elephants regarded by the people of Siam?

A. If a village elder received a white elephant, the entire village shared in the supply of meat.
B. White elephants were highly prized as they were very hard workers in the cane fields.
C. The people of Siam vied for the honor of receiving the king's gift or a white elephant.
D. White elephants were a financial burden despite being considered sacred.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. In the culture of Siam, white elephants were highly regarded as sacred and receiving one as a gift from the king was considered an honor. It was a symbol of prestige and status to receive the king's gift of a white elephant. Option A is incorrect as white elephants were not used for meat supply. Option B is also incorrect as white elephants were not prized for their work but rather for their symbolic value. Option D is partially correct but does not capture the full significance of white elephants in Siam.

4. Why did the author write this passage?

A. To explain insomnia and propose some solutions for the condition.
B. To encourage people to avoid sleep.
C. To criticize people who have sleep problems.
D. To promote the use of sleep medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The author wrote the passage to explain insomnia and suggest ways to deal with it. The passage provides information about insomnia, its impact on daily life, and offers solutions like sleep hygiene and non-pharmacological therapies. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as the passage does not encourage avoiding sleep, criticize people with sleep problems, or promote the use of sleep medication. Instead, it focuses on understanding and addressing insomnia.

5. What is implied about Benjamin Franklin in the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. Benjamin Franklin opposed the idea of Daylight Savings Time.
B. Benjamin Franklin was the first to implement Daylight Savings Time.
C. Benjamin Franklin proposed the idea of Daylight Savings Time.
D. Benjamin Franklin had no role in Daylight Savings Time.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage states that Benjamin Franklin first suggested the introduction of Daylight Savings Time in the 18th century. However, the first serious proposal came in 1907 from William Willet. Franklin's idea was not implemented during his lifetime, but he did propose the concept. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because Franklin did not oppose the idea. Choice B is incorrect because he was not the first to implement it. Choice D is incorrect because he did have a role in proposing the idea.