where is thailand

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. Where is Thailand located?

A. Africa
B. Europe
C. South America
D. Asia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Thailand is located in Asia, not South America. Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It shares borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. The extract provided also mentions the country of Siam, which is now known as Thailand, indicating its location in Asia. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as Thailand is not located in Africa, Europe, or South America.

2. Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?

A. It is a good gift to give at the party
B. Gifts are never unwanted
C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.

3. What is the meaning of the word leached as used in the last paragraph?

A. Sucked
B. Compressed
C. Seeped
D. Materialized

Correct answer: C

Rationale: "Leached" refers to the process by which substances, such as lead, seep or dissolve out of materials, in this case, water pipes.

4. What is implied by the author's mention of the Kayapo people in the passage on the Amazon Rainforest?

A. The Kayapo people destroy the environment for farming.
B. The Kayapo people farm in an environmentally friendly way.
C. The Kayapo people contribute to deforestation.
D. The Kayapo people hunt animals for survival.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The mention of the Kayapo people in the passage highlights how they farm in an environmentally friendly manner. Instead of using chemicals, they enrich the soil by burning wood and plant banana trees, attracting wasps that feed on harmful insects. This sustainable farming practice showcases their efforts to coexist with the rainforest ecosystem without causing harm. The other choices are incorrect: A is refuted by the passage as the Kayapo people are described as farming in an environmentally friendly way, C is incorrect as the passage does not mention the Kayapo people contributing to deforestation, and D is not supported by the text as there is no mention of the Kayapo people hunting animals for survival.

5. The author seems to?

A. Oppose drinking alcohol
B. Favor a strict diet
C. Oppose regulation of personal habits
D. Advocate moderation and balance

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage does not explicitly state the author's stance on alcohol consumption or dieting. However, the description of playing Bridge emphasizes qualities like time, effort, and attention to become proficient. This suggests that the author likely favors moderation and balance in one's approach to activities, rather than extremes like excessive drinking or strict dieting. Choice A is incorrect because the author does not express opposition to drinking alcohol. Choice B is incorrect as there is no indication of the author favoring a strict diet. Choice C is incorrect as there is no direct mention of opposing regulation of personal habits in the passage.