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 the overall tone of the essay?
- A. Informative
- B. Insensitive
- C. Grim
- D. Uplifting
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The passage discusses the challenges and symptoms associated with sickle-cell anemia, portraying a somber and serious tone. The descriptions of persistent pain, difficulties, and the impact on individuals' lives make the overall tone fairly grim. The essay focuses on the hardships faced by individuals with sickle-cell anemia, highlighting the severity of the disease. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the tone of the essay is not informal, insensitive, or uplifting. It is important to consider the language used, the subject matter, and the overall emotional impact of the text to determine the tone accurately.
3. What role does water vapor play in the Water Cycle, as described in the passage?
- A. Water vapor is unnecessary in the water cycle.
- B. Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.
- C. Water vapor is harmful to the environment.
- D. Water vapor cools the Earth's surface.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.' The passage clearly outlines the importance of water vapor in the water cycle. It explains that water vapor returns to the air from surface water and plants, and condenses back into droplets of liquid, forming clouds. These clouds eventually lead to precipitation like rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Choice A is incorrect as water vapor is crucial in the water cycle. Choice C is also incorrect as there is no mention of water vapor being harmful in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not state that water vapor cools the Earth's surface; instead, it highlights its role in the formation of precipitation.
4. The author's reason for writing this piece seems to be to
- A. Teach the reader
- B. Persuade the reader
- C. Entertain the reader
- D. Inform the reader
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The author likely wrote this piece to inform the reader because the content is focused on providing information about the Golden Gate Bridge's history, construction, and significance. The text presents facts and details without attempting to persuade or entertain. The main purpose appears to be sharing useful or educational information rather than teaching, persuading, or entertaining.
5. 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.
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