HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test Related

Review HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test related questions and content

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.