Reading Comprehension HESI A2

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the term "white elephant" originated in Siam (now Thailand) where the king would gift a rare albino elephant to those who displeased him. This gift was seen as a burden due to the high cost of care and inability to be used for work. Therefore, an unwanted gift is called a white elephant as it burdens the recipient. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the historical context and origin of the term.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: White elephants were regarded as a symbol of royal power and prosperity in Siam. Step 2: The people of Siam desired to receive the king's gift or a white elephant to gain prestige. Step 3: This desire to receive a white elephant shows that the people vied for the honor associated with it. Step 4: Choice C is correct as it aligns with the historical significance of white elephants in Siam. Summary: Choice A is incorrect because white elephants were not primarily valued for their meat. Choice B is incorrect because white elephants were not used for labor in cane fields. Choice D is incorrect because white elephants were considered sacred and symbolized prosperity despite the financial burden.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the primary purpose of the essay is to inform the reader about the stages of the water cycle. This can be inferred from the content focusing on the processes involved in the water cycle, such as evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. The other choices are incorrect because while they may be related to the topic of water, they are not the main focus of the essay. B focuses solely on how rain is formed, C focuses on persuading readers to preserve water, and D focuses on water's importance in life, all of which are not the central theme of the essay which is the water cycle stages.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Put or go on board a ship. The word "embark" is commonly used to refer to the act of boarding a ship or starting a journey. In the passage, the context suggests the beginning of a journey, which aligns with the meaning of embark. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not match the meaning of embark in the given context. Removing the covering from a tree (A) does not relate to the context of starting a journey. Speaking harshly to others (B) and entertaining the reader (C) are also unrelated to the concept of beginning a journey or boarding a ship.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because ponds and lakes are not formed by evaporation (B) or condensation (D). They are also not a part of the evaporation process (B) but rather examples of groundwater reservoirs (A). Runoff (C) refers to water flowing over the land surface, not the formation of ponds and lakes. Therefore, the reader can conclude from the passage that ponds and lakes are examples of groundwater reservoirs.