HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step 1: White elephants are mentioned in the passage. Step 2: The passage describes white elephants as being given as gifts. Step 3: The passage emphasizes that white elephants are considered burdensome and unwanted. Step 4: Therefore, the purpose of white elephants in the tradition mentioned is to symbolize unwanted and burdensome gifts, supporting choice B. Summary: A: Incorrect - White elephants are not portrayed as symbols of wealth and power in the passage. C: Incorrect - The passage does not mention white elephants being used in religious ceremonies. D: Incorrect - The passage does not suggest that white elephants are mythological creatures with no real use.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chronic illness. Sleep apnea causes interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to reduced oxygen supply to the body. This can result in various chronic illnesses such as hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The other choices are incorrect because sleep apnea does not promote good sleep (choice B), improve memory (choice C), or reduce physical illness (choice D). In fact, untreated sleep apnea can significantly impact overall health and quality of life due to the associated chronic health conditions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: To explain the tradition of giving white elephants. The passage likely provides details, history, and significance of the tradition, aiming to educate readers. This choice aligns with the purpose of informing and clarifying the practice of giving white elephants. The other choices are incorrect because A only focuses on historical customs, B focuses on entertainment value, and D suggests a critical viewpoint, which may not be the main purpose of the passage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the article specifically discusses differences in eating methods, providing explanations for various cultural practices. This conclusion is directly supported by the content of the article. Choice B is incorrect as it generalizes eating habits across all cultures, which the article does not do. Choice C is incorrect because the article does not focus on challenges of space travel related to eating habits. Choice D is incorrect as the article does not mention chopsticks or forks in the context of space travel.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the article discusses the importance of diversity in food habits and the benefits of trying new dishes. The author emphasizes the interesting aspects of various cuisines, promoting cultural understanding. A: Incorrect. The article does not mention chopsticks being funny. B: Incorrect. Space flight is not discussed in the article on Eating. C: Incorrect. While the author may enjoy trying new food, the main focus is on the significance of diversity, not personal preferences.