which part of the bridge was built first

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. Which part of the bridge was built first?

A. Cables
B. Roadway
C. Sidewalks
D. Towers

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Roadway. In the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, as with many bridges, the roadway was built first. The roadway provides the foundation and support for the rest of the structure, allowing vehicles and pedestrians to access the bridge. The construction process typically starts with the roadway to establish a base before moving on to other components like cables, towers, and sidewalks. Therefore, the roadway is an essential initial component in bridge construction. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because, according to the provided extract, the anchorages were built first, followed by the towers, cables, and finally, the completion of the roadway. This sequence highlights the significance of establishing the structural support before the construction of other elements of the bridge.

2. 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.

3. Which might be a good title for this passage about Barefoot Running?

A. Everyone Should Run Barefoot
B. How to Prevent Running Injuries
C. Modern Road Surfaces Versus Barefoot Running
D. The Debate over Barefoot Running

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The title 'The Debate over Barefoot Running' captures the main discussion in the passage.

4. What is the meaning of the word 'composed' in the first paragraph?

A. To consist of
B. To be uniquely discovered
C. To be set apart
D. To be surprised

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context provided, 'composed' means to consist of. The paragraph explains that a drop of water is composed of an oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choice B, 'To be uniquely discovered,' is incorrect as it does not relate to the composition of a drop of water. Choice C, 'To be set apart,' and Choice D, 'To be surprised,' are also incorrect as they do not convey the meaning of 'composed' as it is used in this paragraph.

5. What is the meaning of the word moderation as used in the second paragraph?

A. Adequate amounts
B. Intervals of time
C. Excess
D. Variation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, moderation means consuming adequate amounts of unsaturated fats. The passage highlights that unsaturated fats like olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial when consumed in appropriate quantities. Choice B, intervals of time, is incorrect as it does not relate to the consumption of fats. Choice C, excess, is incorrect because moderation implies avoiding excess consumption. Choice D, variation, is unrelated to the context of consuming fats in appropriate amounts.