what is the authors reason for writing the passage on the white elephant

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What is the author's reason for writing the passage on the White Elephant?

A. To inform readers about Thailand's historical customs.
B. To entertain readers with the origins of the term 'white elephant.'
C. To explain the tradition of giving white elephants.
D. To criticize the tradition of giving white elephants as gifts.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To explain the tradition of giving white elephants.' The passage provides historical context about the practice of giving white elephants as gifts in ancient Siam, now Thailand. It explains how white elephants were considered sacred, could not be put to work, and became a burden to the recipients. The author's purpose is to shed light on this tradition and its implications, not to inform readers about Thailand in general (choice A), entertain with fun facts (choice B), or criticize the tradition (choice D). Choices A and B are incorrect because the passage focuses specifically on the tradition of giving white elephants, not on broader aspects of Thailand or entertainment. Choice D is incorrect because the passage does not criticize the tradition but rather provides a factual account of its historical significance.

2. What is the meaning of the word compelling as used in the passage about Sunny-Side Up?

A. Reasonable.
B. Convincing.
C. Common.
D. Worthwhile.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, "compelling" refers to something that is convincing or persuasive. The passage presents a strong argument in favor of sunlight's benefits, particularly in relation to vitamin D synthesis. Therefore, B is the correct choice as it aligns with the author's intent to present a convincing argument.

3. What does the word 'suit' mean in the passage about Bridge?

A. A set of clothing to be worn together.
B. Any of the four sets into which a deck of cards is divided.
C. To request or appeal persistently.
D. To be convenient or right for.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Any of the four sets into which a deck of cards is divided.' In the context of card games like Bridge, 'suit' refers to one of the four divisions of a deck of cards - spades, hearts, diamonds, or clubs. Each suit contains cards of different ranks, and during the game, players must follow suit if possible, meaning they must play a card of the same suit that was led. This is crucial for understanding card hierarchy and gameplay in Bridge. Choice A is incorrect because it defines 'suit' in terms of clothing, which is not relevant to the context of the passage. Choice C is incorrect as it defines 'suit' as a verb meaning to request persistently, which is unrelated to the card game. Choice D is also incorrect as it defines 'suit' as an adjective meaning to be convenient or right for, which is not the meaning intended in the passage about Bridge.

4. What is the main idea of the passage about High Fructose Corn Syrup?

A. The passage discusses the potential health risks associated with consuming HFCS.
B. High fructose corn syrup may be contributing to obesity.
C. Manufacturing process of HFCS involves a chemical process.
D. Rats prefer high fructose corn syrup over other sweeteners.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main idea of the passage about High Fructose Corn Syrup is that it may be contributing to obesity in America. This is evident from the information provided in the extract, which discusses how HFCS has been linked to health issues, including obesity. Choice A is incorrect because the passage primarily focuses on the potential health risks associated with HFCS consumption, not just the examination by the American Medical Association. Choice C is irrelevant as it only talks about the manufacturing process of HFCS, which is not the central theme of the passage. Choice D is incorrect as it emphasizes the preference of rats for HFCS, which is a minor point compared to the potential impact on human health, particularly in relation to obesity.

5. The word 'track' as used in the last paragraph of the passage can best be defined as ___________.

A. Keep a record of
B. A new attitude
C. Follow carefully
D. A paved, circular path

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the context of the passage, 'track' refers to a 'paved, circular path' for running or walking. The last sentence of the passage encourages people to get off the couch and onto the track, indicating a physical path for exercise. Choice A, 'Keep a record of,' is incorrect as the context does not suggest any relation to recording information. Choice B, 'A new attitude,' is unrelated to the context of exercise and fatigue reduction. Choice C, 'Follow carefully,' does not fit the context of physical activity and energy levels discussed in the passage.