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 'sterile' as it is used in the second paragraph?
- A. free of bacteria
- B. healthy
- C. delicious
- D. impotent
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In the context provided, 'sterile' means free of bacteria. The text mentions that raw foods are not sterile and can be a common source of foodborne illnesses due to contamination with harmful bacteria. 'Healthy' (choice B) is incorrect as the term 'sterile' specifically refers to the absence of bacteria, not overall health. 'Delicious' (choice C) is irrelevant to the context of bacteria contamination. 'Impotent' (choice D) is also incorrect as it does not relate to the concept of being free from bacteria.
3. Which statement would not be inferred by the reader in the passage about Barefoot Running?
- A. Runners who take their shoes off may face some hazards.
- B. Modern running shoes may increase the odds for injury.
- C. Walking barefoot is good for the muscles and tendons.
- D. Before 1950, even Olympic runners ran barefoot.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The passage does not imply that Olympic runners specifically ran barefoot before 1950. While it discusses historical context regarding running shoes, the claim about Olympic runners is not substantiated within the text, making D the correct answer. It represents an inference that cannot be drawn from the provided information.
4. What is the meaning of the word 'phenomenon' in the second paragraph?
- A. Something that is lifeless to the senses
- B. Something that is nonchalant
- C. Something that is significant but unusual
- D. Something that is chemical in origin
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the context of the second paragraph, 'phenomenon' refers to something significant and unusual, specifically describing the scientific phenomenon known as the Doppler Effect. This effect explains the change in frequency of sound waves when a source of sound and the observer are in relative motion. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the meaning of 'phenomenon' in this context. 'Lifeless to the senses,' 'nonchalant,' and 'chemical in origin' do not align with the description of the Doppler Effect, which is a notable and uncommon scientific occurrence.
5. A reader might infer from this passage that the organization ___________.
- A. succeeded in eradicating malaria
- B. has always been led by a medical doctor
- C. no longer studies communicable diseases
- D. changed its name to match its mission
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The passage never says whether or not the CDC succeeded in its original mission (choice A) or whether it continued to be led by doctors (choice B). Inferring either of those things would be a leap unsupported by the text. Choice C is countered by information in the final
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