Tear the Curtain Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Tear the Curtain - Essay Example Alex is a Vancouver theater critic and is very passionate about his work. He firmly believes he found the legendary theater director Stanley Lee who directed the famous (or infamous) ‘The Empty Space’. Alex is strong in his conviction that Stanley Lee is the person who can destroy audience complacency, as he is not satisfied with the way the theater business is progressing. But what Alex is trying to do is not easy. He strives to prove something through Stanley Lee but himself gets caught up between two mob families and the Empty Space Society. The breakdown of Alex has a buildup revolving around Stanley Theatre. The two rival gangs are trying to take control of this theater and Alex gets caught up in the crossfire (Kaplan, 2012). Anagnorisis occurs in the play when Alex creates confusion among the audience about reality and truth. For a moment the audience gets puzzled if they are watching a play or is it happening in real life, or probably they too are the part of a play. This strange sense of existence or the question of existence seeds catharsis in the audience. Although the plot of the play doesn’t revolve around Rene Decarte’s philosophy of existence yet there are aspects in the play that leave a deep impact on the audience, the make them question their own existence. This conflict leads them to a catharsis, where they ask quick question to their own ‘self’ to confirm if they really exist in the audience or are they on s stage. But this form of questioning is overshadowed by the strong premise that they bought the tickets to the play and that can’t be a part of the play. They have their lives back at home, their own sense of existence. How can that be true that Alex is reading the script and the script itself reads he is reading it? It is there and then the audiences get wrinkles on their foreheads, some start scratching their chins, while some would look away from the stage to

Voter Initiatives Affecting Ell Essay Example for Free

Voter Initiatives Affecting Ell Essay It is no secret that the debate over what is the best course of action to educate our non-native English language students across the country is a highly charged topic that runs from the classroom to Capitol Hill. There have been many shifts in direction and focus of educational programs for English Language Learning (ELL) students during the past century in our nations history. In 1968, with the passage of the Bilingual Education Act (Title VII of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act) legislation was adopted to support programs for educating language-minority students. For the first time, this federal law provided legal guidelines and funding for transitional bilingual education programs. This legislation was further developed in 1974 as a result of the US Supreme Court ruling in Lau V Nichols where a group of Chinese immigrant parents in San Francisco argued that the school district was not adequately providing an equal and effective education because they failed to address their students needs to learn English. As a result of this ruling the mandate to school districts was established to focus funding and attention around a sufficient bilingual education program. Several rulings following this case helped to clarify the need for adequate pedagogy, a sufficient number of qualified teachers to implement the program and a system to measure the effectiveness (Mora,2009). However, the tone of bilingual education began to shift beginning in 1998 when states began to propose anti-bilingual-education ballot initiatives. Three such initiatives were passed in California (1998), Arizona (2000), and Massachusetts (2002) but were rejected in Colorado (2002) and Oregon (2008). (Mora, 2009) All three initiatives in California, Arizona, and Massachusetts were initiated by the same person, Ron Unz, a wealthy chairman of a financial services software company from California. The result of his efforts created Proposition 227 in California, Proposition 203 in Arizona and 603 CMR 14.00 in Massachusetts which all required that English language learners be educated for one year in a sheltered English immersion program. After that time students must then transfer into mainstream English classrooms. The laws only allowed for instruction of students in their non-English native language under limited and restricted conditions through a parental petition and waiver process (Mora, 2009) The real issue at hand concerning these introduction of these laws are much deeper cultural and sociological issues. According to the California Department of Education, changes in school demographic figures indicate that the language minority student population at that time was growing two and a half times faster than the general student enrollment. As an example, nowhere was this change more notable than in California where 1.4 million students were classified as English language learners, with native Spanish-speakers comprising 82 percent of this population (Weisman and Hanson, 2002). Before the implementation of Proposition 227 eliminated the need to provide bilingual education, California was reported to be short 22,000 bilingual teachers. Bilingual teachers on average were paid $5000 more annually than non-bilingual teachers. This law eliminated the need for these resources. To other voters, the concept that children can learn in their native language while also learning English and eventually achieve academically in English contradicted the American tradition of assimilating immigrants into the mainstream society. To many opponents of the bilingual education program that existed prior to these laws, encouraging bilingualism and biculturalism threatened the very definition of the American culture, which, they believed, promoted the values and language of a common group (Weisman and Hanson,2002). ). These proponents of the initiatives believed that new immigrants must abandon their native languages and cultural practices to fully assimilate into U.S. society. They feared that Spanish-speaking immigrants in particular had been clinging to their language and resisting learning English (Mora,2009). It remains to be seen the impact that this legislation has had on the academic outcomes of ELL students. In Arizona, research has suggested that the immersion program has been ineffective with only 11% of students entering the one year program actually obtaining English proficiency within a one year period (English for children, 2013). In California, due to the dramatic changes in the education policy of the state since the passage of Prop 227, it is difficult to measure the impact that Proposition 227 specifically has had on the outcome of these students (American Institutes for Research and WestEd, 2006). One thing is clear, the improvement in the outcomes for ELL students since the adoption of these state initiatives has not been noteworthy. While there has been a slight decrease in the performance gap between ELs and native English speakers, it has remained virtually constant in most subject areas for most grades (American Institutes et al, 2006). Despite the new law, the growing presence of students whose native language is not English indicates that the need for teachers who can understand the language and culture of their students has not waned (Weisman,et al 2002). Educators have reported that since the implementation of the law in their classrooms they have felt frustrations about instructional constraints, concerns about adverse effects on students, fear, intimidation, tension, and a sense of political consciousness(Weisman et al, 2002). In conclusion, the one common denominator resulting from the implementation of the state voter initiatives is that it has created conflict between the law and the instructional tools that educators know to be effective. The initiatives have been more of an expression of cultural ideas and insecurities that have affected the productivity and the role of our education system as it pertains to integrating immigrant Americans. In the future, in order to best navigate the changes in policies and legal mandates concerning the outcomes of ELL students, educators should lean more on research and experience to drive educational programs that will be most effective to this population of students. In this way, our countrys education system can lessen the emotional impact of various cultural groups and political agendas and allow all students to receive the core educational standard set forth in the Equal Education Opportunity Act of 1974, a fair and equitable education for all students regardless of race, ethnicity or language of origin. References American Institutes for Research, WestEd. (2006, January 24). Effects of the implementation of Prop 227 on the education of English learners, K-12. Retrieved from http://www.wested.org/online_pubs/227Reportb.pdf English for children (Arizona Proposition 203, 2000). (2013, January 24). Wikipedia. Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_for_Children_(Arizona_Proposition_203,_2000) Mora, J. K. (2009, April). Membership. Educational leadership: Supporting English language learners: From the ballot box to the classroom. Retrieved from http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational-leadership/apr09/vol66/num07/From-the-Ballot-Box-to-the-Classroom.aspx Weisman, E. M., Hanson, D. Z. (2002). Teaching English language learners after Prop 227: Reflections of bilingual teachers. Issues in Teacher Education, 53-68. Retrieved from http://www1.chapman.edu/ITE/weismanhanson.pdf

Saving behaviour of Malaysian university students

Saving behaviour of Malaysian university students The purpose of doing this research is to determine the factors that influence the saving behavior towards private and public university students in Malaysia. There is an introduction regarding the research background about the factors influence the saving behavior towards private and public university students in Malaysia. For information, it determines the objectives of entire research and also justifies significant of research which outlines the purpose of this research. In addition, it also provided the definition for important terms throughout the research. With the rapid development of the financial system and the broader array of financial products and services available to consumers, there is an increasing need for Malaysians to make wise savings and investment decisions that will have lasting implications for their financial well-being. Due to the many peoples lack of the skill to manage their financial status, financial problems increase day by day. As a result, the understanding of the important of saving behavior and a clear picture of this matter is an important element to us. We are required to get a full answer from the problem. Previously there are a lot of researches had been done by other researcher. However, the studied is not well enough to give an insight or the key for the problem. The research is going to identify research problems by gathering all relevant and appropriate sources to support the statements and see how other researchers have perceived regarding the topic area. All data collected from previous studies are used to demonstrate the relationship between independent and dependent variables and it will show how independent variables make impact on the dependent variable. Chapter 2 Literature Review 2.2 Independent Variables 2.2.1 Demographic Factors Soo (2009) explained that demographic variables played a significant role in explaining attitude toward saving. However, when demographic variables were not considered, characteristics of saving goals and individual regulatory orientation were significantly related to attitude toward saving. In addition, the effect of saving goals was moderated by a households regulatory orientation. Moreover, it was concluded that saving goals affect attitude towards saving and saving behavior among peoples. Based on Jehad (2007), understanding the demographic problem behind the saving patterns is benefits for designing effective public policy. Age According with Joe, Hadley Balasundram (2002), many college students were unworried about their own financial status, future wealth, and retirement planning. Thus, the attitudes of the preschool children toward saving can consider an important personal characteristic because it may give an impact to them for their future life. (John Andrew, 2002). Nowadays young generation have low level of financial literacy, which due to their uncontrolled expenditure behavior. In the advancing ages, it would be quite difficult for an individual to develop the habit of systematic manage their financial planning (Pillai, Rozita Rachel, 2010). Due to the age factor, youth lack of the skill of financial literacy compared to middle-aged and older adults who have more experienced in financial planning (Pillai et. al., 2010). Besides, based on Elsa, Annamaria Chiara (2009), older individuals may have little discretionary saving the reason is because the amount of saving is already providing for their future retirement needs. From the research of Mohamad Maurice (2010), students who had late enrolled in their childhood consumer experience were considerably less likely to report financial problems. Moreover, Students are never required to educate themselves on personal finance. Once they enter the workforce, they will likely not take the time to become more financially literate and will not adequately prepare for their retirement (Chris Oliver, 2011). In contrast, the younger generation and the elderly save very little primarily due to their lower income, respectively. Thus, the life cycle hypothesis implies that private saving rises with a higher percentage of the working population, and falls with a higher percentage of the younger generation and aging population .According to the life cycle hypothesis, the middle age groups were categories to be the best in managing their saving. The life cycle hypothesis also suggests that young and old groups are the least likely to save because of their situation (Jehad 2007). A positive relationship between age and saving has been reported in many studies (Chang, 1994; Johnson Widdows, 1985; Browning Lusardi, 1996). Browning andLusardi documented a complex relationship between age and saving. Using crosssectional data, they concluded that elderly savings can be complicated by a cohort effect. Generally, people reaching maturity at different times might vary their attitude toward risk and borrowing, consequently affecting their saving rate. Using panel data, Hurd (1990) reported a decline in wealth among the elderly, suggesting a negative relationship between age and saving. Other studies compared the actual saving rate of different age groups with the expected saving rate based on economic models. Browning and Crossley (2001) concluded that while the elderly dissave, their actual dissaving rate is not as large as that predicted by an economic model. Avery and Kennickell (1991) found that age groups older than 65 saved more than what would be expected ba sed on an economic model. Gender According with Maria Stephanie (2002), studies in the field of psychometrics had found out that female attitude toward risk differs from male and demonstrates that gender is a powerful determinant of risk attitudes and judgments. The Study of John Andrew (2002) had show that the mothers attitudes are systematically both more important and than man. It can be said that female students were more likely to engage in savings behavior than male students (Maria et. al., 2002) In addition, according from Mohamad, Maurice, Jariah, Tahira Mohd (2008), female students had greater financial well-being than male students. From Angela, Urvi Erik (2008), it stated that women wealth has historically been lower than men. Moreover, the results of the current study had showed that there has an existing of the differences within saving behaviors between men and women (Angela et. al., 2008). Patti (2010) had reported that women who were in poor health condition were seldom to make their saving in the short period, while poor health condition did not significantly influence the short term saving of men. Furthermore, Patti et. al., (2010) has shown that the economic wellbeing and financial behaviors of male and female differ significantly. Female hold lower levels of wealth and have significantly lower earnings than male. Gender based differences in behavior that are systematic and widespread can influence consumptions, savings, investment and the level of risk taking at aggregate level were mentioned by (Szekeres et. al., 2010). The researches on developing countries proved that women may have a stronger preference than men for buying goods and services that contribute to the human capital of their children, such as food, education, and health care (Valeria, 2010). The study of Szekeres (2010) show that the term of gender refers to socially learned behaviors that are associated with females and males. Parents Marital Status David (2010) the analysis indicates that marital-status transitions play an important role that can impacts on personal saving decisions especially in the cases of widowhood and divorce. It stated that, when people get married, form a family, or separate through divorce or widowhood, they can experience dramatic changes in their financial positions. Therefore, the marital status and children almost certainly affect household resources, preferences, and background risk, and these elements lie at the heart of any analysis of optimal asset allocation and wealth buildup over the life cycle. In addition, households experience an increase in wealth due to the merging of the spouses assets after they marriage. Moreover, household heads of each gender must engage one of five states at the beginning of each age. They can be married, divorced, widowed, never married, or deceased. According to Berkay (2010), it suggested that the legalization of divorce led to a significant increase in the propensity to save by married individuals, which is consistent with individuals saving more as a response to the increase in the probability of marital breakup. Moreover, from the same research, some theoretical work has made a challenge to introduce marriage and divorce explicitly in a model of savings. It argued that different channels through which marital transitions can have an effect on consumption and savings. Avery and Kennickell (1991) reported that during a three-year period the wealth of those married or single (for the entire period) increased, which indicated saving. However, wealth decreased for those whose status changed between 1983 and 1986. Rha, Montalto, and Hanna (2006) discovered that households with single heads and children, households with married heads and children, and households with single female heads without children were less likely to save, relative to households with single male heads without children. Households with children tend to save less (Douthitt Fedyk, 1989; Bosworth et al. 1991; Browning Crossley, 2001; Freyland, 2004; Deaton, 2005). Ethnicity According to Yusof, Erik Bart (2000), there were large fraction of the ethnic Malay work in low-wage industries, whereas the ethnic Chinese and Indians frequently work in high-wage industries. For information, Mohamad Maurice (2010) were found that it has a negative coefficient indicating that Chinese students were substantially less likely to have effective financial behavior than the reference category such as Malay, Indian and others. Perry and Morris (2005) used data from the 1999 Freddie Mac Consumer Credit Survey to examine responsible financial behaviors, such as saving money. They found low-income African Americans were more likely to engage in responsible financial behaviors than their low-income White counterparts. The research did not find a significant interaction effect between race and income with respect to responsible financial behaviors for the Asian and Hispanic groups. Rha, Montalto, and Hanna (2006) found that households with a White respondent were more likely to save than those with Black or Hispanic respondents. They also found that Black households were significantly less likely to save than White households. However, Hogarth and Anguelov (2003) found that Hispanics were more likely than Whites to be savers. Their results showed no differences among Blacks, Whites, and other races in likelihood of being a saver. 2.1.2 Family Structure An additional child might cause a negative influence on a familys ability to save while. On the other hand, it may boost up the parents desire to save more (Tim, Sandra, Roslyn, Robert, 2006). The studies of Kathy (2009) had mentioned that the geographical redistribution of financial infrastructure, away from lower income communities, has resulted in geographical pockets of financial exclusion, economic decline, poverty and deprivation, as low-income households often do not have access to financial institutions and savings incentives. Additionally, low-income consumers often have to suffice with lower quality goods and services. They may have no choice but to purchase second hand goods, an option that is almost always viewed as second best (Joseph et. al., 2009). Besides, Additionally one can speculate about whether students from wealthy families might have had more and earlier consumer experience and greater financial socialization, so that those who scored higher on those predictors might also be able to rely more on their parents to assist them after graduation (Mohamad Maurice,2010) From the research of John Andrew (2002), it shows that parents wealth residuals are correlated to childrens wealth residuals. In other words, parents who save more than expected are more likely to have children who also save more than expected even after controlling for parental wealth. In addition, the first prediction of the model of the research were the savings behavior of children should be similar to that of their parents, controlling for income, age and other demographic variables. Thus, children observe parents consumption and planning behavior and may learn, or simply absorb, particular attitudes that affect savings behavior. Furthermore, homogeneity within communities and heterogeneity across communities could lead to relationships between parents and childrens behaviors. In between, the parental wealth may have direct effects on childrens behavior. Household income or lifetime earnings are positively associated with increases in household savings (Browning Lusardi, 1996; Chang, 1994; Rha, Montalto, Hanna, 2006; Hurd Zissimopoulus, 2003). Perry and Morris (2005) found that people with higher incomes were more likely to engage in responsible financial management behaviors, such as saving money. Avery and Kennickell (1991) reported that individuals with incomes more than $50,000 saved more than economic theory would suggest. Chang (1994) noted that income had a positive effect on saving. Rha, Montalto, and Hanna (2006) found a positive relationship between household income and the probability of saving. Browning and Lusardi (1996) noted that households with greater income uncertainty possessed higher savings from current income. 2.2 Spending Pattern Pillai et. al., 2010 With availability of generous pocket money, personal credit cards, access to credit cards of family members or high-paid jobs at prime age, young people are faster becoming impulsive spenders and prove reckless often. Moreover, strategic marketers are designing products and services targeting young generation. With the ease of information access through the Internet and web technology, marketers have managed to capture a significant market of youth through online store sales. In the Asian subcontinent, new trends in fashion, electronic gadgets, sports, video games, mall culture and music are important contributors to wasteful spending among the youth. Most of todays young adults, although smart and independent, scarcely understand the value of money because of the desire to adopt extravagant lifestyles, in addition the above mentioned factors. Young adults under the age of 30 are now the fastest growing age group filing for bankruptcy. Besides, evidences show tha t college students tend to spend their discretionary income on instant gratification of their wants rather than save money for their further education. Hibbert, Beutler Martin (2004) examine the influence of parental financial prudence on the attitude and behaviors of the next generation toward their finances. The study underscores the importance of family atmosphere to inculcate the necessity of being rational in personal financial management from the very early life of a person. Moreover, keeping personal financial records makes one to keep track of his or her various expenses and also develop the qualities of a cautious spender because one is constantly aware of how much he/she has spent probably during the last week, month or year. For information, spending in excess of their earnings is one of the most common problems faced by young adults today. The youth are following the I want philosophy, that is, they are more interested in accumulating material possessions than saving money and this leads to the domino effect of making impulsive purchasing decisions resulting in overspending and shortage of money. In addition, credit car d use habit has grown phenomenally among young adults. This increase in the number of youth holding credit cards and incurring credit card debt has generated concern that these young people are over extended and unaware of the long-term consequences associated with severe indebtedness. Moreover, John Andrew (2002) had mentioned that children are always be able to observe parents spending and planning behavior and learn the behavior from them. Mohamad Maurice (2010) stated that more than half of the respondents did not save any money when they received their scholarship or education loan. More than half of the students used their money for shopping. The data showed that 45 percent of them spent all their money before the end of the semester. 2.3 Educational Qualification It is obvious that people who are educated would be more aware about their future life. Thus, the important on saving might be one of the factors that make them taking into their consideration (Joseph, Clifford Annette, 2011). In addition, Masud, Husniyah, Laily, Sonya (2004) had pointed out that it is possible for educators to offer a course that teaches the financial skills necessary to overcome the financial problems among university students. For information, John Marco (2000) explored that the parents education levels would have a causal effect on childs education. Moreover, Mohamad Maurice (2010) stated that those students with higher financial knowledge were more likely to engage in saving behavior. Furthermore, the research said that the college-educated parents are strongly associated with higher residuals, it may effect that survives controlling for wealth (John Andrew 2002). Angela, Urvi Erik (2008) predictable a bargaining model of household saving behavior and found out those households where the husband had more education than the wife had lower levels of net worth. Higher rates of tertiary education which could perhaps be counted as another form of investment have also contributed to increasing debt (Janice,2007) 2.4 Sibling Rank Keister (2003) found that the number of siblings a person has is a significant predictor of the importance one places on saving for retirement. The more siblings one has, the less time each child has devoted exclusively to them from their parents. Parents with more children tend to save less and have less time to educate each child about saving. Also, the more siblings one has the less likely their parents are to pay for college, give them a car, or put the down payment on their first home. This causes them to have to pay for these items with no financial assistance from their parents. They are forced to start their finances off in debt and once someone is in debt, they often remain there for the rest of their lives. In addition, the more siblings one has the less likely they are to receive an inheritance when their parents pass away. In addition, it also finds that overall, the more siblings one has the less wealth accumulation they are likely to achieve. 2.5 Place of Origin Masud, Husniyah, Laily Sonya (2004) had mentioned that when the place of origin was compared, a higher percentage of those from rural areas reported experiencing more problems compared to those from urban areas. Students from rural areas may have a limited amount of resources in comparison to urban area students. Soo(2009). A students residential status can also influence the problems he or she faces. A higher percentage of those living off campus did not have sufficient money to last until the end of semester compared to those living on campus. Students living off campus spend more money on items that students on campus do not have to pay for, such as gasoline for commuting. Yet, a higher percentage of students living on campus reported skipping meals to save money. Since their money was not sufficient to last until the end semester, several students have to borrow money from friends. Thirty percent of males and no females indicated that they plan to pay off their debt when they get the money.

The Racial Struggles of Puerto Ricans Essay -- Race Racial Culture Ess

The Racial Struggles of Puerto Ricans Another large component of Puerto Ricanness is Race. All of the different cultures that have throughout history combined to form Puerto Rico effect their nationality, history, lifestyles, traditions, music, and foods. The "discovery" or infiltration of the island of Borinquen (or Puerto Rico as it was later renamed) in 1493 by Spain resulted in the decimation of the native Taino population. With the loss of an immediate source of cheap labor to work the fields for their sugar cane industry, they introduced African culture into the region by importing slaves to replace the Taino field workers. In addition to the introduction of African culture into Puerto Rico voluntary immigration brought further divergence from the native population of the island through the influx of foreigners of European descent. The prosperous sugar and coffee industries during the Spanish rule attracted foreigners seeking economic prosperity from area such as France, Italy, Spain (primarily Corsica and Mallorca) and other areas in Europe. The arrival of the foreigners resulted in the "whitening" (Gonzalez) of the racial mixture of the island’s inhabitants. Through the Spanish colonial era briefly describe above, it is evident that Puerto Rican society was a very culturally diverse island. Despite this there has always been heavy emphasis placed on the whiteness of the society by the white elite that dominate the island. Josà © Luis Gonzà ¡lez wrote a controversial article titled Puerto Rico: The Four-Storeyed Country in which he expressed his view that Puerto Rican society was not predominately white but rather black because of the thousand of slaves that were taken to the island to work on Sugar plantations. Gonz... ...aven, 1997) Guerra, Lilian. Popular Expressions and National Identity in Puerto Rico: The Struggle For Self, Community, and Nation. (University Press of Florida: Gainesville, 1998) Dietz, James. Economic History of Puerto Rico. (Princeton University Press: Princeton, 1986) Glasser, Ruth. My Music is My Flag: Puerto Rican Musicians and the New York Communities. (University of California Press, Berkaley 1995) Scarano, Franciso. Sugar and Slavery in Puerto Rico, 1815-1849: An Overview from: Scarano, Sugar and Slavery in Puerto Rico: "The Plantation Economy of Ponce, 1800-1850. (Madison U. of Wisconsin Press, 1984), 3-34. Morris, Nancy. Culture, Politics, and Identity. (Wetsport: Praeger, 1995) Ferre, Rosario. The House on the Lagoon. (New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1995) Lopez, Tania. Personal Web Page http://frontpage/tlopez

Challenges of Transforming a Traditional Brick-and-Mortar Store Essay

1.Reconcile the idea of selling aromatics over the Internet with a functional approach to marketing. Is the idea basically sound? Although a web-based selling aromatics strategy does not guarantee success, however there are many benefits on web-based sales. The benefits Celia can get from the web-based business if she launches the web site correctly are; †¢There is a potential to increase her revenue. †¢The ability to expand her business into global markets. †¢The ability to remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week without additional cost. †¢The ability to lower the cost of doing business †¢Can rate the customer satisfaction about her product will promote more business Celia is very knowledgeable on aromatics products therefore she can be successful by selling online. Many people do not live in a city where their favorite product being offered and they are willing to purchase it from on-line. Celia can take advantage of the growing internet market to launch her scent products. Celia needs to manage her web site properly and use the right strategies to promote her products. Celia needs to pick the correct tool to promote her product and make it available for the on-line customer. In order to be successful in web-based sales, Celia need consider the followings: †¢She need to understand her target customer †¢offer the customer what they want †¢Make sure the web site easy to navigate †¢Simple design of the web site – create user friendly website †¢ Make sure the web site is fast, simple checkout process †¢Assure customers that their online transactions are secure. †¢Keep the web site up to date †¢Hire a professional web designer to create and maintain the web site. 2.What should Celia do? Reference your recommendations to the text or presentation. †¢The first step Celia should take is, she need to select an all-in-one e-commerce internet service that includes; web page editor, shopping card software, design templates, payment processing. Using the all-in-one e-commerce internet service will allow Celia to launch an attractive online store which will promote more sales. †¢Celia should focus on a niche in the market. †¢Celia should market her products online by opening social networking accounts such as Facebook or Twitter. With the social network Celia can start blog about her products and the uniqueness of the products that she offering. She can also offer discounts to the readers who reads her blog or whoever connected with her. †¢ She can attract visitors by giving away â€Å"freebies† through the social network †¢Celia should promote her web site online and offline. One-way of promoting will be giving additional discount to people who orders from online. †¢The last step to develop an effective search engine to optimize her strategy, cheap or lower cost website cannot offer the extensive customer service. Therefore, Celia should consider getting a professional website designer who has referrals and creditability to perform the job that she requires. 3.Comment on Table 1 and the pattern of sales. MonthNumber of Online Transaction Total Monthly Dollars Sales Average Monthly Dollars Sales January2 $ 19.72 $ 9.86 February13 $ 598.69 $ 46.05 March4 $ 103.29 $ 25.82 April6 $ 208.86 $ 34.81 May20 $ 826.58 $ 41.33 June4 $ 98.57 $ 24.64 July2 $ 16.60 $ 8.30 August1 $ 7.29 $ 7.29 September4 $ 114.28 $ 28.57 October5 $ 106.54 $ 21.31 November10 $ 233.54 $ 23.35 December25 $ 1,026.89 $ 41.04 Average per month8 $ 280.07 $ 35.01 Yearly Total96 $ 3,360.85 n/a 1st 2nd 3rd The highest sale of the monthDecemberMayFebruary The lowest sale of the month August JulyJanuary The highest Average of the month February MayDecember The lowest Average of the month August JulyJanuary †¢The highest sales of the month is December oTotal revenue of $1,026.89 oTotal item sold 25 This indicates holiday season and customer are looking for gift items and therefore sales increased. †¢The Second highest sales of the month May oTotal revenue of $826.58 oTotal item sold 20 This indicates mother’s day and customer are looking for gift items and the target market is women. †¢The Third highest sales of the month February oTotal revenue of $598.69 oTotal item sold 13 This indicates Valentine’s Day and customer are looking for gift items and the target market could be women. †¢The highest average unit price of the month is February oThe average price for unit $46.05 This indicates price per perfume increased on the month of February may be it has to do with the Valentine’s Day. During that time people will pay any price to get quality item on the market. All these results show potential target market Celia should focus is ladies and during the holiday season, Valentine’s Day and the mother’s day.

Find the best online essay writing services with us

Find the best online essay writing services with us The online world has opened many opportunities to its users. By surfing through the internet, information can be retrieved immediately and used where necessary. There is no doubt that the internet is more beneficial and has done more good. One major area where the internet proves to be best is in the education sector. First, it is a reference to lots of research materials. It contains billions of articles depending on the kind of research subject you key in. Instead of going to the library, students could easily use the internet to retrieve information. Second, the internet is a major facility in the search of online essay services. By simply typing the words best online essay writing services, an endless list appears. Students can then make their choice of service from the list. What the internet has failed to provide is one single search for the best online essay writing service. This is because all these services offer the same help. There are only few differentiating details and very much hidden. Students need to have the third eye to see this. But being a writing service, we help our customers hire the right people. Here are some steps to find the best online writing services. The first step is going through classifieds of essay writing companies. This is a rough check through these companies, their advertisements and the kind of services they offer to customers. Check companies offering similar features and whose websites look alike. This makes your selection easier as you have a few companies in hand. Carry out an extensive research on the few services you have picked. Focus only on their history, their performance in the market and the number of customers they are working for. The best online writing site should be identified by huge number of customers. Additionally, check out reviews written on those specific sites. Read about customer support, quality, delivery and customer usability. Check out the services offered. There is a situation where you might order a thesis from a service and it turns out that they do not deal with us. Its important you get a clear list of services offered other than those put on the website. Finding best online essay services will thus take some time. If you are stuck with choosing the best essay paper writing service, do not waste more time. Check out our reviews!

Yellowstone National Park Geography and Overview

Yellowstone National Park Geography and Overview Yellowstone is the United States first national park. It was established on March 1, 1872  , by President Ulysses S. Grant. Yellowstone is mainly located in the state of Wyoming, but it also extends into Montana and a small part of Idaho. It covers an area of 3,472 square miles (8,987 sq km) that is made up of various geothermal features like geysers, as well as mountains, lakes, canyons, and rivers. The Yellowstone area also features many different types of plants and animals.   History of Yellowstone National Park The history of humans in Yellowstone dates back to around 11,000 years ago when Native Americans began to hunt and fish in the region. It is believed that these early humans were a part of the Clovis culture and used the obsidian in the region to make their hunting weapons, mainly Clovis tips, and other tools.   Some of the first explorers to enter the Yellowstone region were Lewis and Clark in 1805. During their time spent in the area, they encountered several Native American tribes such as the Nez Perce, Crow, and Shoshone. In 1806, John Colter, who was a member of the Lewis and Clark expedition, left the group to join fur trappers - at which point he came across one of the parks geothermal areas.   In 1859 some early explorations of Yellowstone took place when Captain William Reynolds, a U.S. Army surveyor, began exploring the northern Rocky Mountains. Exploration of the Yellowstone area was then interrupted due to the beginning of the Civil War and did not officially resume until the 1860s. One of the first detailed, explorations of Yellowstone occurred in 1869 with the Cook-Folsom-Peterson Expedition. Shortly thereafter in 1870, the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition spent a month surveying the area, collecting different plants and animals and naming unique sites. Following that expedition, Cornelius Hedges, a writer, and lawyer from Montana who had been a part of the Washburn expedition suggested making the region a national park.   Although there was much action to protect Yellowstone in the early 1870s, serious attempts to make Yellowstone a national park did not occur until 1871 when geologist Ferdinand Hayden completed the Hayden Geological Survey of 1871. In that survey, Hayden gathered a complete report on Yellowstone. It was this report that finally convinced the United States Congress to make the region a national park before it was bought by a private landowner and taken away from the public. On March 1, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Act of Dedication and officially created Yellowstone National Park.   Since its founding, millions of tourists have visited Yellowstone. In addition, roads, several hotels like the Old Faithful Inn and visitor centers, such as the Heritage and Research Center, have been constructed within the parks boundaries. Recreational activities like snowshoeing, mountaineering, fishing, hiking, and camping are also popular tourist activities in Yellowstone. Yellowstones Geography and Climate 96% of Yellowstones land is within the state of Wyoming, while 3% is in Montana and 1% is in Idaho. Rivers and lakes make up 5% of the parks land area and the largest body of water in Yellowstone is Yellowstone Lake, which covers 87,040 acres and is up to 400 feet (120 m) deep. Yellowstone Lake has an elevation of 7,733 feet (2,357 m) which makes it the highest altitude lake in North America. The remainder of the park is mostly covered by forest and a small percentage of  grassland. Mountains and deep canyons also dominate much of Yellowstone. Because Yellowstone has variations in altitude, this determines the parks climate. Lower elevations are milder, but in general summers in Yellowstone average 70-80 °F (21-27 °C) with afternoon thunderstorms. Yellowstones winters are normally very cold with highs of just 0-20 °F (-20- -5 °C). Winter snow is common throughout the park. Geology of Yellowstone Yellowstone was initially made famous due to its unique geology caused by its location on the North American plate, which for millions of years has slowly moved across a mantle hotspot via plate tectonics. The Yellowstone Caldera is a volcanic system, the largest in North America, which has formed as a result of this hot spot and subsequent large volcanic eruptions. Geysers and hot springs are also common geologic features in Yellowstone which have formed due to the hotspot and geologic instability. Old Faithful is Yellowstones most famous geyser but there are 300 more geysers within the park. In addition to these geysers, Yellowstone commonly experiences small earthquakes, most of which are not felt by people. However, large earthquakes of magnitudes 6.0 and greater have struck the park. For example in 1959 a magnitude 7.5 earthquake hit just outside the parks boundaries and caused geyser eruptions, landslides, extensive property damage and killed 28 people. Yellowstones Flora and Fauna In addition to its unique geography and geology, Yellowstone is also home to many different species of plants and animals. For example, there are 1,700 species of trees and plants native to the Yellowstone area. It is also home to many different species of fauna- many of which are considered megafaunas such as grizzly bears and bison. There are around 60 animal species in Yellowstone, some of which include the gray wolf, black bears, elk, moose, deer, bighorn sheep and mountain lions. Eighteen species of fish and 311 species of birds also live within Yellowstones boundaries.To learn more about Yellowstone visit the National Park Services Yellowstone page. References National Park Service. (2010, April 6). Yellowstone National Park (U.S. National Park Service). Retrieved from: https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm Wikipedia. (2010, April 5). Yellowstone National Park - Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yellowstone_National_Park

good ole days essays

good ole days essays The Good Old Days They Were Terrible Today is Monday July the 10th. Today was a very long day, I got up at sunrise and did not get home until after sunset. I am not used to working like this. I came from Germany with my parents in 1887. I was but a little boy when we came here. I was probably between the ages of 5 and 6. My father had a small store in Germany, where he sold food and other goods. I guess it could be called a general store. The store was not doing that much business because the farmers in Germany were going through a lot of agriculture changes. The farmers could not pay the bills and because of this we were going broke. Well, back to today! Today was a very hard day. When I woke up this morning my brothers and I had to feed all of our animals. We had a few chickens, some cows, and a few pigs. The pigs are the worst to feed because you have to walk through all of the mud and muck to get to them. I hate feeding the pigs, I just hate it! The chickens on the other hand were easy to feed becaus e all we had to do was go in the chicken house and put some feed into the feeders. Today also happened to be the day we have to clean out the chicken house. We clean all of the animals pens and houses every Monday. I know it sounds bad, but trust me it is not as bad as having to feed the pigs. When we finished feeding all of the animals, we had to go out into the fields and check on the crops and make sure there were no animals getting into the crops. While my brothers and I were in the fields, we heard the mom ringing the bell. This meant that it was time for us to eat. This is my favorite time of the day. I look forward to this every morning when I wake up. My mom is the best cook in the world. Well, once again dinner was great. When we finished eating dinner, the family would go outside and gather around my father and h ...

Online learning Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Online learning - Essay Example The most effective way to learn these skills is to develop those while one is still a student. Life after education is a lot more complicated than what most students think especially when there is a need to deal with many things all at the same time. Oftentimes, there is a need to meet hectic deadlines and perform tasks that need to be studied thoroughly. On such situations, one needs to organize the things that should be done according to their importance. While organization skill in online learning allows the students to prioritize their goals, in the workplace, it allows one to focus and meet the deadlines without compromising the quality of the work (â€Å"Organizational Skills,† n.d.). Organization skill, as used in the workplace, improves my efficiency as it enables me to finish the necessary work load. As organizational skill develops my efficiency, time management skill improves my productivity as it enables me to maximize my time and effort. As applied in the workplace, time management skill allows one to exercise full control over his/her schedule and allocate ample time for different tasks that need to be done (Foltynek & Motchyka, 2009; Roper, 2007). In relation to organization skills, effective time management skill improves my professional career as it develops my productivity. Aside from the skills previously mentioned, effective communication skill is also important in online learning and in the workplace. Professionals highly depend on their effective communication skill as it determines whether or not their message is clearly understood by the receiver or they clearly understood the message of their leaders (Johnson, n.d.). Effective communication skills would enable me to express my ideas and comments effectively, objectively and politely. In addition, communication skill helps me establish connections

A Library Outside the Traditional Library System Article

A Library Outside the Traditional Library System - Article Example I was stuck in my research quest. I did not know what to do. My cousin had limited experience with the online library himself. We send a message through the system in the form of an inquiry to the librarian about how to proceed. The librarian answered in less than 48 hours. The tips I received from the librarian on how to find the information I was seeking were very useful. Remote access is the ability to enter or log into a network from a remote location (Webopedia, 2007). School should be providing this type of service to its student body. Remote access has plenty of applications for students enrolled at the k-12 level. Teachers can create laboratories in their classrooms is which all the students are able to log into a network to enjoy some type of educational experience. The teacher itself does not have to be present during the session since remote access allows teachers to monitor the system from an outside location. Student knowing that the teacher can monitor their computer activities; since every action get logged into the system will behave well and learn the value of responsibility and self-control. Remote access can also provide privileges to the k-12 students such as the ability to enter the school library or electronic resources to find information after school that can help them with their assignment from their homes. As a part of team responsible for managing a school library media system in the transition process of creating a website and electronic resources there would be plenty of things that had to be worked on, but the top priority would be on educating the faculty and teachers on the system. A school with technologies deficiencies in its library system has a great possibility of having these types of deficiencies thought the school. I would set up immediate mandatory seminars for the teachers to get them up to data on the National Educational Technology Standards.

Discussthetraitsapproachtotheentrepreneurialpersonalityandthereasons Essay

Discussthetraitsapproachtotheentrepreneurialpersonalityandthereasons why it fails to properly predict the behaviour of entrepreneurs - Essay Example Traits can be defined as habitual behavioural and thought patterns of people. Traits have been measured to reflect how much of a particular trait does a specific category of people reflect. This also implies that individuals that behave in a similar fashion can be compared and norms for various categories of people can be identified based on trait patterns. The trait approach has set down these patterns for entrepreneurs (Okhomina, 2010). The trait approach has set down certain parameters based on this very measurable feature of behavioural pattern and the paper seeks to study this approach. It moves on to explore the drawbacks of the trait approach and discusses the reason behind the failures of the theory. Entrepreneurship can be narrowly defined as a person who establishes and runs his or her own business. An aspiring entrepreneur is a one that hopes to establish and run his or her own business at some point in time. Entrepreneurship can also be defined as creation of something that adds value with appropriate time and efforts going towards its development. This definition assumes that personal satisfaction and monetary gains are rewards for various risks (social, physical and financial) undertaken. Entrepreneurship and the entrepreneur have changed that path for markets and economies. They have contributed in developing new services and products and have given way to creativity and innovation that made economic development and prosperity possible. It is because of this importance that entrepreneurs hold in shaping the economic future of the country, that studies have been conducted to study entrepreneurial behaviour and define traits that would in turn help in developing entrepreneurial ability in the nations. There are many traits for an entrepreneur but the trait that has been identified as one of the critical ones is the ability to identify opportunity and making profits

A Problem In the Field of Finance Annotated Bibliography

A Problem In the Field of Finance - Annotated Bibliography Example This will provide important information and guidance about scholarly sources relating to earning management. This journal article examines the relationship between firm size and earnings management. To this end, the article is based on an empirical study into small and large organizations to identify which organizations are more prone to earnings management. The study indicates that both large and small organizations undertake earnings management to avoid presenting negative results. The study shows that most small firms undertake earnings management to avoid reporting losses. On the other hand, larger and medium sized organizations use aggressive earning management to avoid profit decreases than smaller firms. The journal involves a study of the relationship between earnings management and accounting standards. It identifies that earnings management are increasingly done in areas where organizations and business are allowed to pass judgments. These areas are increasingly being regulated by accounting standards. However firms continue to use methods of overriding accounting standards because most of these elements and aspects of earnings management causes firms to incur serious losses. Fundamentally, this journal examines the relationship between earnings management and corporate governance. It answers the question of which practices of earnings management affects earnings management and how. The study critically evaluates 100 S&P firms and their accounting practices and auditing trends between 1994 and 2003. The study identifies that in organizations where there is a strong presence of institutional investors, earnings management are minimal because there is control and care that is induced in the affairs of the firm. However, where there are many individual shareholders, earnings management is common. This study involved an examination of elements of managers’ manipulation of

Frist assay in helth an safety management Essay

Frist assay in helth an safety management - Essay Example It includes both large scale civic surroundings i.e. places of work, as well as personal places such as homes. The phrase, today, has been widely known and used to illustrate the interdisciplinary field of study which seeks to address various aspects of man – made surrounding such as its design, management, and safety issues in relation to human activities. The construction industry has a disturbingly low safety mechanism as compared to the other industries where accidents which involves temporary access systems, fitting of defective components, unauthorized modification of structures, omission of barriers as well as other more common factors arising on account of management failure such as failure to control and prevent risk, unsafe methods and practices, and inadequate training and supervision account for a large proportion of injuries in the construction industry worldwide1. Although the construction industry has been widely appreciated for making major contributions in accelerating development across the globe, its image has been tarnished by the number of accidents and health hazards that occur on an almost regular basis on the sites. This research paper deals with the various aspects involved in the workplace safety management practices with regard to the construction industry. It analyses and discusses the contemporary issues, current trends and strategies that could be used to improve the working conditions and reduce the health hazards which are faced by construction workers. According to HSE approximately 2.2 million3 people work in Britain’s construction industry, which is incidentally considered to be one of the most dangerous places to work, making it one of the largest industries in the country. Statistics suggest that nearly 2800 people have died as a result of accidents on construction sites in the past 25 years4. Most of the accidents occurring on

News Summary Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

News Summary - Assignment Example Now, several companies with presence in Bangladesh including Esprit Holdings, Fast Retailing and Zara parent  Inditex  SA have signed five-year contracts implementing third-party safety inspections of buildings to ensure their compliance with the safety standards. Likewise, companies like H&M are also looking into increasing the wages of the workers, saying that workers should be able to live on their wages. This means that manufacturing cost will be higher, which is favorable to the workers but not to manufacturers and consumers. Nevertheless, the move has started yet there are no reports whether prices of products will increase with the ongoing changes. Despite the move of several Western companies, the report says that only up to 25 percent of the factories have complied with the said action. This means that 75 percent has not yet done its part and those factories could be expected to add up to the number of fire incidents in Bangladesh. Therefore, Geoffrey Crothall, spokesman for China Labour Bulletin suggests that the government should take the matter seriously and take the responsibility of inspecting buildings and looking into the welfare of their own people. Chiu, K. (2014). Western brands rethink low-cost focus. Retrieved January 27, 2014, from

Engage with the topic of Pleistocene Re-wilding Essay

Engage with the topic of Pleistocene Re-wilding - Essay Example ies we know today came about as a result of evolution of mega carnivores and herbivores and therefore biodiversity is not what it is without this segment of megafauna. The plan to re-wild America is therefore the most suitable way out of total extinction of these species because even as debate is being generated on this move, more large vertebrates from Asia and Africa are constantly finding homes in America in the form of zoos and private reserves (Donlan, 913). It is estimated that there are more Asian tigers in America that in the wild. The process of re-wilding North America has in fact started and all that is left is to move these animals in captivity to the free world of the US landscapes. The success of this process will be founded on the following tenets: That human beings have a natural attraction to megafauna which the explanation to why San Diego’s Wild Animal Park receives 1.5 million visits annually much more than the total number of visits to US national parks that are homes to rodent and other small animal species (Donlan, 914). Releasing the captured animals couples with their relationship with the American ecosystem given t heir extinct ancestors roamed the American plains is enough reason to get the process of re-wilding started. Wild Bactrian camels that are currently facing extinction in the Gobi desert had their ancestors, Camelops, originate from North America and therefore taking them back home to America would rescue this species from total extinction. Another basis is that, even with the surging world human population, regions of Southwest America that are the possible home of these re-introduced species are experiencing population decline providing sufficient room for the megafuna to roam and reproduce. As the custodians of world heritage, the human race is ethically bound to ensure large vertebrate are not extinct and this responsibility, coupled with the potential economic and biological benefits that come with re-wilding, provides

News Summary Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

News Summary - Assignment Example Now, several companies with presence in Bangladesh including Esprit Holdings, Fast Retailing and Zara parent  Inditex  SA have signed five-year contracts implementing third-party safety inspections of buildings to ensure their compliance with the safety standards. Likewise, companies like H&M are also looking into increasing the wages of the workers, saying that workers should be able to live on their wages. This means that manufacturing cost will be higher, which is favorable to the workers but not to manufacturers and consumers. Nevertheless, the move has started yet there are no reports whether prices of products will increase with the ongoing changes. Despite the move of several Western companies, the report says that only up to 25 percent of the factories have complied with the said action. This means that 75 percent has not yet done its part and those factories could be expected to add up to the number of fire incidents in Bangladesh. Therefore, Geoffrey Crothall, spokesman for China Labour Bulletin suggests that the government should take the matter seriously and take the responsibility of inspecting buildings and looking into the welfare of their own people. Chiu, K. (2014). Western brands rethink low-cost focus. Retrieved January 27, 2014, from

Christopher Columbus Essay Example for Free

Christopher Columbus Essay From the date of his birth to the amount of schooling he received as a child, to the final resting place of his remains historians are simply not sure. It is even claimed that he was, at the age of 21 a privateer. â€Å"Columbus’s son Ferdinand stated in History of the Life and Deeds of Christopher Columbus that in 1472 Columbus was given command of a ship on a privateering expedition to Tunis in northern Africa. In a lost letter, Columbus supposedly related to his son how Rene I, duke of the French province of Anjou, had commissioned Columbus to make a surprise attack on a large Spanish ship sailing off the coast of North Africa. 4 However Ferdinand’s claim is the only proof available and the claim is largely believed to be false. There is a lot of information that is well known, and well documented. Christopher Columbus completed four sea voyages. Starting with his most famous in 1492 and ending in 1506. Although he took to the sea at the age of 14 he was not commissioned to his own ship until much later. At the age of 41 he made his historic voyage to the new world. Although Columbus is given credit for discovering America it was not named for him, it was named after Amerigo Vespucci. The name America was given to the Western Hemisphere by European writers and mapmakers after Columbuss death. Nothing in their experiences had led the first explorers to realize that they had come into contact with a vast and unrecorded continent, many times the size of Europe. Previously there had been no accounts, or even rumors, of the unknown peoples of this new continent in European scholarly literature and discus sion or in popular chronicles. † 5 If Christopher Columbus had one true purpose, it was not to find the new land or even riches for King Ferdinand V and Queen Isabella I. His true calling which led him to the sea was to travel to the East by going west. He wanted to find a direct trade route to Asia, and to explore the region discovered by Marco Polo. His obsession to find this region was so intense it actually led him to believe that Cuba was part of Asia. In an ironic twist of fate, the closest Columbus would ever come to reaching Asia was on one of his earliest voyages. In 1474 Columbus, hired on as a sailor, set off for Khios, an island in the Aegean, this was to be the first long voyage Columbus would ever take and the closest he ever came to Asia. Columbus spent a year on this island and was able to become economically independent from his family. 7 To truly understand why someone would be obsessed with finding a direct trade route to Asia, you must understand why this was necessary. â€Å"The event that had the most far reaching effects on Europe in the 15th Century was the fall of the city of Constantinople (modern Istanbul, Turkey) to the Mu slim Ottoman Empire. Constantinople had been the capital of the Orthodox Christian Byzantine Empire for centuries, and it was an important center for trade between Europe and Asia. In 1453 the Ottoman Empire, which had already conquered much of southeastern Europe, captured the city, closing an important trade route from Europe to the east. European merchants could still buy Asian goods from Muslims in places such as Alexandria, Egypt. However, Europeans longed for a sea route to Asia that would allow them to bypass the Muslims and purchase Asian products directly. In addition, European princes and kings quickly realized that the first nation to find such a route could become very wealthy by monopolizing the highly profitable Asian trade. 8 Although Columbus never found that direct route to Asia, he did find recognition and wealth from his travels. â€Å"The widely published report of his voyage of 1492 made Columbus famous throughout Europe and secured for him the title of Admiral of the Ocean Sea and further royal patronage. † 9 Christopher Columbus was also a family man. He had two sons; his first was with wife â€Å"Felipe Perestrello e Moniz, the d aughter of a well respected, though relatively poor, noble family. † 10 They had a son Diego in 1480 or 1481, historic records are unsure of the exact date. Felipe died shortly after. Diego was boarded in a Spanish Monastery were Columbus found great support for his voyages in the monks who lived there. They introduced him to nobility, share ancient maps and vital information about sea currents and the size of the oceans themselves, and for a short time he was â€Å"maintained at the expense of the queen. † 11 His second son Fernando was born out of wedlock to a young peasant woman named Beatriz Enriquez de Arana, in 1488. Beatriz is believed to be the great love of Columbus’ life and his love for her helped him through the toughest portions of his life as he awaited the end of the war to take Granada. Christopher Columbus was an entrepreneur, as well as an opportunist; on his second voyage he carried with him African slaves to the new world. 12 Columbus also claimed a dowry offered to the first person to see land on his maiden voyage. During his first voyage, on October 12, 1492 a lookout spotted land a couple hours after midnight from the crow’s nest of the Pinta. The lookout’s name was Rodrigo de Triana for his sighting; he should have received a pension of 10,000 Maravedis per year. That was roughly what an able sailor could make in a year at the time, however Columbus pocketed the money himself, claiming he saw lights the night before. 13 This however would not be a onetime occurrence, in 1491 Columbus made a final appeal to Spanish Monarchs but his plan was rejected. In the past his plan was rejected for technical reasons, such as his assessment of the size of the ocean, it was believed to be too large to cross or the distances and measurements that Columbus came up with were not accurate. This time, the request was denied due to simple greed. â€Å"Columbus had asked for one tenth of all the riches in the indies, and his demands for the titles of admiral, which would give him the right to judge commercial disputes; of viceroy, which would make him the personal representative of the monarchs; and of governor, which would enable him to act as supreme civil and military authority in any new lands he discovered. † 14 However, â€Å"Columbus had successfully won over many of the learned scholars and scientific advisers, nd Ferdinand’s treasurer, Luis de Santangel, interceded on Columbus’s behalf. Arguing that the investment was small considering the potential reward, Santangel convinced the king and queen to reverse their decision. A court official was dispatched on horseback to bring Columbus back. After several more weeks of negotiating a contract, in April 1492 Columbus left for Palos de la Frontera and his rendezvous with history. † 15 On Au gust 3, 1492 Columbus sets off for the Canary Islands with his three ships, the Nina, Pinta and the Santa Maria. The Canary Islands were a necessary stop over for two reasons, first the rudder of the Nina needed repair and secondly Columbus had studied the swift moving currents that were found off the Canary Islands. 16 September 6, 1492 the armada left the Canary Islands via those swift currents in search of a direct route to Asia, what he found instead would change mankind forever. Columbus’ second voyage was his largest in size. In his first voyage Columbus had three ships, but in his second he had 17 ships. This time he was taking provisions to set up colonies as well as soldiers and livestock designed to stay on the island and establish colonies. His first voyage consisted only of enough provision and personnel for a year long voyage based on exploration and discovery. In September 1493 the fleet sets off from Cadiz, Spain for the Canary Islands. Once again utilizing the swift currents of the Canary Islands, the fleet reaches Hispaniola in November 1493, an island Columbus discovered in his previous voyage. Columbus’ third voyage leaves Sanlucar, Spain with six ships on May 30, 1493. For the first and only time Columbus purposely splits his ships and sends half his fleet to Hispaniola and takes the other half on a more southerly route to the Cape Verde Island. In August 1498 Columbus returns to Hispaniola and assumes the role of governor. HE resides as governor for two years before he is arrested for misadministration, and was arrested, bound in chains and returned to Spain. Columbus, in an act of defiance refused to have his chains removed until the monarch gave the orders to do so. 17 â€Å"On December 17, 1500, Columbus went before the royal court. The king and queen instructed that whatever items were taken from Columbus at his arrest be restored to him. The monarchs would not reinstate Columbus’s titles, however. This was, however, neither victory nor vindication for Columbus. With his titles annulled, the former governor spent the next two years in despair and humiliation. † 18 Columbus had another chance to win back his good name, and on his fourth voyage in May of 1502, he would leave Cadiz, Spain with four ships. 19 In June of 1503 Columbus’ ship is marooned and beach on the island of Jamaica. It suffers a severe case of sea worms and is no longer sea worthy. The crew is spends a year on island and in November 1504 Columbus heads back to Spain. On May 20, 1506 Columbus dies in Valladolid, Spain. 20 â€Å"both of his sons, his brother Bartholomew, and his faithful friend Diego Mendez were at his side when the admiral murmured â€Å"Into thy hands, O Lord, I commit my spirit† and passed away. His body was buried initially in Valladolid, but in 1509 his son Diego transferred the remains to the monastery of Las Cuevas in Sevilla. The current location of Columbus’s remains is still debated. They were moved to the Americas in the middle of the 16th century, first to Santo Domingo and then, in 1795, to Havana, Cuba. Then his remains supposedly traveled back to Spain in 1899 where, it is claimed, they are interred in the Cathedral of Sevilla. † 21 So in death, as in life, Christopher Columbus is a noble man, and spirit, and a true explorer, entrepreneur and mystery. Although his accomplishments have recently been criticized by modern historians as untrue, making claims that the Vikings discovered America long before Columbus, the credit still goes to Christopher Columbus.

Weaknesses of Stainless Steel

Weaknesses of Stainless Steel Introduction This report has been written to give you the reader a basic understanding of stainless steel. The report will explain how it is made, uses in industry and the strengths and weaknesses of the material. History Originally known as rust less steel, stainless was officially discovered between the years of 1900 and 1915. There is no exact date of creation as the discovery was the culmination of many works, the first of which is recorded in 1821. A Frenchman named Berthier found that when iron is alloyed with chromium it becomes resistant to some acids. Further developments were made in 1872, when three British scientists tried to patient their version of stainless steel which contained, 30-35% chromium and 1.5-2% tungsten, which they too declared was weather and acid resistant. Three years later in 1875 another Frenchman, Brustlien, discovered the iron used to make stainless had to have a very low carbon content, of only 0.15%, which was only discovered because ferrochrome became available. Why this material is considered useful or important? Stainless steel is considered to be very useful because it is ductile and malleable and produced to withstand the elements, resisting oxidation and staining. With over 150 various different stainless steel compounds there is one to suit most applications where other metals maybe used. Where is it found? Stainless steel is not found, it is manufactured from various elements depending on its required use. All stainless steel begins as low carbon steel (50% or more) which is combined with 10 to 26% chromium, to create the base of all stainless steels. which is a hard metal with a high melting point. What are the raw materials that are used to produce this material? The raw materials use to produce stainless steels are, a minimum of 50% low carbon steel, and at least 10% of chromium. Depending on the grade of stainless steel other elements will be added during production including nickel, nitrogen and molybdenum which will give added resistance to various forms of corrosion and can also reduce the overall weight. What are its applications in industry? Stainless steel is used widely across many industries such as: Surgical tools: Forceps, needles, scissors and scalpels Kitchen ware: Pots, pans, knives and forks Architectural structures and panels: roofing, decorative pieces eg. Empire state building Storage containers: For liquid chemicals to beer or milk. Automotive parts: car exhausts, catalytic converters, trim pieces and fasteners Marine: Handles, nuts and bolts, frames and fixtures Even down to the most basic nuts and bolts. The most commonly used form of stainless is 304 due to is cost, strength, versatility and finish available along with its great welding and forming characteristics. 304 is austenitic meaning it is a non metallic solid solution of iron and carbon which contains no more than 0.08% carbon, and a minimum of 8% nickel and 18% chromium 316 is the most common form of stainless steel after 304 and is often referred to as marine/ surgical grade stainless. Due to the fact that 316 is sold as a marine grade of stainless it has to resist chloride corrosion caused by salt water, so the addition of molybdenum is required. Molybdenum is a silver coloured element which has an extremely high melting point and when alloyed with steel becomes very hard and resistant to salt corrosion. This is why 316 is suitable for marine use and is also used in surgical and food and beverage applications such as milk storage tanks and piping where a sterile environment is very important. For applications where heat is an issue titanium can added to raise the melting point 321 other wise know as aircraft grade stainless has an increased resistance to temperature, withstanding 600-900Â °C What are its properties; i.e., mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, physical, etc. Mechanical properties of stainless steel are its ability to What are its strengths and it limitations? The biggest strength of stainless steel is that it has a very high resistance to oxidation. Although there are many other advantages: Low maintenance: Rarely requires cleaning Anti staining and wont rust: due to the chromium in stainless steel, which reacts to oxygen creating a protective surface layer over the metal, it is very hard to stain, or create rust. High positive and negative temperatures: The ability to withstand temperature allows stainless to be used in a wide range of different environments. Pressure: Stainless steels ability to contain high pressures make it ideal for storage containers and piping. Malleable and ductile: Stainless is most commonly produced in coils, sheets, plates, bars and tubes of differing size. What are the future demands and applications on this material? Stainless steel will be use for long time to come into the future. Although there is no specific future applications that stainless will be in demand for it will be a material which will continue to be used for many years to come purely because stainless steel is 100 recyclable. Even the majority of stainless steel produced today will contain up to 60% recycled material. Knife http://www.valleymartialarts.com/index.php?main_page=indexcPath=3_18 Kitchen http://www.furniturestoreblog.com/2009/01/24/the_ultimate_stainless_steel_kitchen_from_strato.html Tubes http://www.thomasnet.com/articles/metals-metal-products/stainless-steel-tubes Chromium http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chromium http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molybdenum http://www.wisegeek.com/how-is-stainless-steel-made.htm http://www.azom.com/details.asp?ArticleID=965 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SAE_steel_grades http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stainless_steel#Uses_in_sculpture.2C_building_facades_and_building_structures

High-fi Cy-fi Essay -- Argumentative Persuasive Literature Papers

High-fi Cy-fi The world of Cyberpunk can be compared to a creature of fantasy. This fantasy creature unfolds wings of enchantment and uncoils a sinewy body of treachery and suspicion that is adept at drawing the attention of anyone who has an interest in science fiction or adventure. Cyberpunk is a form of science-fiction that is described by Garyn Roberts as "characterized by tough characters in tough worlds (Intro 1006)." The toughness of cyberpunk heroes can be related to the detective fiction stories of the 1920’s and 1930’s. This particular genre is also characterized by themes of technology, particularly virtual reality. In this form of science-fiction literature, it is very easy to discern the involvement of Rock ‘n’ Roll and punk themes. In this essay, I plan to prove that cyberpunk is a very creative form of literature and not the irrelevant, or unimportant, literature it was once perceived to be (Intro 1006). To do this I will provide an in-depth description of what is referred to as the Matrix, access to the matrix, descriptions of the extent to which technology is integrated into the life of those inhabiting a cyberpunk reality, and electronics capable of creating artificial creatures. The Matrix. In the cyberpunk world it can be linked to everything or it can represent everything such as in the movie The Matrix. When spoken of in terms of being a physical entity the matrix is simply nothing. The matrix is a name given to the theoretical space that exists in the digital world. "Trying to remind myself that this place and the gulfs beyond are only representations, we aren’t "in" Chromes computer, but interfaced with it, while the matrix simulator in Bobby’s apartment generates this illusion†¦ (Gibson 1011)." In ... ...rpunk is a form of writing that is sure to grow in popularity. Bibliography Bear, Greg(ory Dale). "Blood Music." The Prentice Hall Anthology of Science Fiction and Fantasy. Ed. Leah Jewell. Upper Saddle River: Prentice Hall, 2001. 1019-1035 Cameron, James. "Terminator, The." Published by: Pacific Western, Hemdale Film Funding, Euro Film Funding, and Cinema 84: 1984. James Cameron and Gale Anne Hurd Gibson, William (Ford). "Burning Chrome." The Prentice Hall Anthology of Science Fiction and Fantasy. Ed. Leah Jewell. Upper Saddle River: Prentice Hall, 2001. 1006-1019 "Matrix." Infoplease Dictionary. 2001 Learning Network. 7 Dec, 2001 http://www.infoplease.com/ipd/AO531187.html. Roberts, Garyn G. "Introduction to ‘Burning Chrome’." The Prentice Hall Anthology of Science Fiction and Fantasy. Ed. Leah Jewell. Upper Saddle River: Prentice Hall, 2001. 1006

Gambling Essay examples -- essays research papers fc

Gambling, while it lowers taxes and creates jobs, it also causes addicts to lose money and therefore creates a higher crime rate.A Quick History of Gambling.Gambling was a popular pastime in North America long before there was ever a United States. Playing cards and dice were brought over by both the British and the Dutch. By the end of the 17th century, just about every countryseat in colonial America had a lottery wheel. Cockfighting flourished thoughout the countries, especially in the South. Bear Baiting was also a popular sport, but the Puritans banned it.(Ortiz 4)Almost 100 years later gambling in the West gave gambling a second life. Early church leader struck down all forms of gambling and so in the East gambling for the most part died completely. Far from both government controls and moral interference of reform groups in the East, gambling became so popular in the West that Monte tables were often setup in the middle of the town.(Donovon 13)Organized CrimeDuring the Prohibition Era (1920-1933), illegal gambling was organized into an authoritarian regional and national system. Responsibility for the syndication of gambling is usually attributed to Arnold Rothstein, who invented the inner-city layoff. He is also known for master minding the "Black Sox" scandal in which the White Sox threw the 1919 World Series to the Cincinnati Reds to assure gambling profits.Gambling legally, once again, becomes acceptable.Since the 1970s, the United States has turned full circle in its attitude toward gambling. Three hundred years ago, the "sport", mostly in the form of lottery, was seen as a perfectly acceptable way to raise money for public purposes.(Savage 12) Over the past several years, slow economic growth, cuts in federal funding to states, and growing public needs have forced many desperate state and even local government to seek additional sources of revenue. Most states have turned to lotteries, horse and dog racing, and, most recently, a growing number of states have resorted to casino gambling as a way to raise money and keep taxes low.(James B5)Sports gamblingDuring the late 1980s, and early 1990s, several states have tried to introduce sports betting, either as part of lottery, like sports pool, or as sports bookmaking. Never the less, the leader of the nation's sports integrity, including the National Basketball Association (... ... spend money gambling," and 59 percent thought that "gambling can erode young people's work ethics." The respondents were evenly split on whether "gambling teaches children that one can get something for nothing" with 49 percent agreeing and 48 percent disagreeing.(Siebel 82)ConclusionIn conclusion gambling is alright as long as its is done in moderation. Also if you know that you have a problem with gambling you should call the gamblers hotline so that you can get the help that you need before it's to late. I would also like to say I learned a lot from this research paper. I hope whomever reads this research paper does so to. Works CitedDonovan, Hedley. The Gamblers. Alexandria: Time-Life Books, 1978.Goddu, Jenn. "Blue Chip lives up too most of its goals." Hammond Post-Tribune 24 Feb. 1999: E1+James, Rich. "All five casinos show January revenue drop." Hammond Post-Tribune 23 Feb. 1999: B5+Ortiz, Darwin. Gambling Scams. New York: Dodd, Mead + Company, 1984.Savage, Jeff. A Sure Thing?. Minnesota: Lerner Publications Company, 1997.Siebel, Mark A, Nancy Jaids, and Alison Lanes. Gambling Crime or Recreation. Texas: Information Plus, 1996.

Child Development – Unit 1

Beginners Guide for New Parents â€Å"A taste of things to come† Awareness of child development From birth to adulthood children are all developing. They develop at different rates but all follow the same basic pattern. Physical development starts from the head, and works down the body to the arms and finally the legs. Communication develops from crying to recognizable words and then intelligent conversation. Emotionally children are reliant on their primary caregiver until they develop an awareness of themselves and are able to socialize and function independently. These various strands of development are not made in isolation or sequentially. Development is concurrent and holistic, therefore any deficiency in one area can affect the development in other areas. ————————————————- Pattern of child development Physical development | | 1. 1 a| Infant0 – 12 months| A newborn lies curled up in the fetal position, unable to raise head. Movements are instinctive such as reactions to sound or closing eyes in bright light. 3 months can turn head to look at objects. 6 months child begins to hold up head, keeping it steady for increased periods. Learns to grasp and hold objects, then moves them from one hand to the other at will. Next can pull body to a sitting position and stay upright when aided. 9 months is able to sit unaided. Releases toys by dropping. Uses pincer grip to pick up items. Holds feeding bottle. 12 months as the baby gains more body control it can roll and crawl. | | Early years1 – 3 years| The gross motor skills are developed as the child starts to stand with support. This progresses to standing alone for a couple of seconds. Can walk holding one hand for support. Can walk unaided, run and jump as she develops full control of her limbs. Finer motor skills are developed such as the pincer grip to pick up small objects. Is able to hold a spoon to feed themselves. Learns to hold a crayon to scribble and then draw shapes with. Talks well in sentences, clear enough to be understood. | | Childhood4 – 7 years| Learns to eat independently using a knife and fork. Motor skills are developed to the point where a child can walk backwards. They can now walk placing heel to toe and balance themselves on a narrow beam. Manual dexterity now allows them to catch a ball, build structures, and draw shapes. Dress and undress with assistance, then alone. Take turns in play with friends and plays cooperatively. Could be frightened of things like spiders and ghosts. Knows their left from right and how many fingers they have. | | Puberty8 – 12 years| Hormonal changes are responsible for a growth spurt at this time. Gain muscles, but can still appear to lack coordination. Develop large and fine motor skills for use in sports and hobbies. Activity increases and may want to spend more time with peers rather than parents. Noticeable body changes take place, girls develop breasts and boys’ voices change. The growth of underarm and pubic hair is normal at this time. Another indicator of this stage is the development of Acne. Pre teens begin to notice the opposite sex, but prefer to stick with their own gender. | | Adolescence13 – 16 years| Their own identity emerges in musical taste and clothes. Teenagers frequently have close friendships with their peers. Are often concerned about how they look and what others think of them. Physical changes continue as puberty is ongoing or completed. Children become more independent but still seek advice and guidance from parents. Teens are aware of the opposite sex and may be going out with them. Preoccupied by their own sexualityConflict and a lowered opinion of parents emerge as teenager tries to mature. | | Young Adult17 – 19 years| More stable emotionally. Not so concerned about body once puberty ends. Develops clear sexual identity. By the end of this stage both girls and boys will have reached physical maturity. | | Communication and intellectual development | | 1. 1 b| Infant0 – 12 months| A newborn baby cries as their only means of communication. As young babies have no concept of time, to them all needs are urgent, and should be responded to as such. Begins to formulate concepts and is aware of the physical sensation of hunger. Will cry in order to have the need for food met. Develops different cries for a variety of needs, changing, hurting, frightened or lonely. Once they find their voice they will make cooing noises and other sounds. Begins to take an interest in their surroundings, paying attention to toys. Uses voice to communicate feelings, with laughter when playing and screaming when annoyed. Can understand familiar objects and has an expectation of what they will do. Chatters away tunefully and uses voice to attract attention. Watches the actions of those around them with interest. | | Early years1 – 3 years| Will learn 2 or 3 words that will be repeated constantly. Able to make the appropriate response to simple instructions. Goes through a trial and error process to discover what an object does. Can verbally communicate what they need. Is developing an inquiring mind about things and surroundings. Uses own personal jargon with many words unintelligible to most people. Knows the names for different parts of their body. Often repeats the last word spoken by any adult in earshot. Has a growing vocabulary of over 200 words and talks to themselves continuously. Joins 2 or 3 words together to make a sentence. Can use their own name with reference to themselves. Constantly asking questions, with infantile substitution, and can relate past events to the present. | | Childhood4 – 7 years| Speech becomes more confident as the substitutions decrease and full fluent speech is achieved. Can count up to twenty using repetition. Ask for the meaning of unfamiliar words. Questioning generally is at its height. Can draw a recognizable house and detailed people. Has a sense of time and can relate to the past, present and future. Able to write their own nameCan match colours and has an understanding of numbers. Reading skills will be developing in this stage and the child might write independently. | | Puberty8 – 12 years| Speech has now developed fully. Reading and writing skills are now being refined. Able to express thoughts and discuss learning making use of language skills. Shares ideas and opinions with peer group. Speech style or jargon is important to fit in with their group. Have a fairly rigid concept of right and wrong. | | Adolescence13 – 16 years| Will confide more with their peers than their parents. Increased use of speech reduces the amount of acting out. Have a good idea of their favorite sport and subjects and are well motivated in these areas. Fluctuates between considerable maturity and babyness. Can appear secretive at home, talkative but not very communicative. Has a stubborn unwillingness to compromise. | | Young Adult17 – 19 years| Thinking about choices to be made regarding further education or career choice. Emerging ability to make independent decisions and able to compromise. Begins to become more self-reliant. Conversation skills are well developed and uses prior knowledge gained. | Social, emotional and behavioural development | | 1. 1 c| Infant0 – 12 months| Creates an attachment bond with mother. Smiles at mother and may squeal with delight. Familiar routines elicit a positive response. Responds to different tones from mother. May become shy in the company of strangers and cling to a familiar adult. Can imitate hand clapping. Understands simple com mands and can wave goodbye. Will cooperate with adult dressing them. | | Early years1 – 3 years| Can demonstrate signs of affection. Will participate in nursery rhymes. Now should be able to help adult with dressing. Indicates when pants are soiled or wet. Becomes emotionally dependent on a familiar adult. Drinks from a cup with both hands. At the end of this stage will gain control of bowels. May throw a tantrum when frustrated. Able to play co-operatively and may have imaginary friends. Tries visibly hard to please. | | Childhood4 – 7 years| Child enjoys co-operative and dramatic play, taking turns. Understands the links between co-operation and competition. Can respond rationally to reasoning. Enjoys a degree of independence but still needs reassurance. Can become totally engrossed in activities. Can be concerned about being disliked. Fears develop about things under the bed or ghosts. Now able to form firm friendships. Fairly independent and confident. | | Puberty8 – 12 years| They will develop a select group of friends. Friendships become firm and more settled. They seek more independence in order to solve problems themselves. Need continued praise and encouragement. Increasingly concerned about what others think about them. Will be unsure about changes in their setting. | | Adolescence13 – 16 years| Body changes can upset self-esteem of children and make them quite vulnerable. As their bodies take on adult characteristics they still feel childlike inside. Will feel pressure from growing up and changing expectations. Some become more assured by changes in their environment. Peer pressure is a significant influence on them. Children want to spend more time with their friends than family. | | Young Adult17 – 19 years| As children enter adulthood they are still relatively inexperienced. The peer group losses importance and is replaced by a few close friends. Mature young adults will start to listen to their parents again, asking for advice. As a sense of identity emerges they are no longer afraid to seek counseling. One on one dating becomes important. May embark on a more intimate relationship with someone. | | Different aspects of development can affect one another | | 1. 2| Football| A child needs to be physically developed in order to play this game. They will use gross motor skills to run around and kick the ball. Hand-eye (feet-eye) coordination is also essential as the player needs to be spatially aware of where they are in relation to other things. It is no good have strong legs and great aim if you could not see where the ball was and make a connection. | | | It is not much fun playing this game in isolation. As a team game players need to have the social skills to share the ball by taking it in turns. They have to understand the cooperation factor which is vital in a competitive game. No one person can win a game on their own. | | | This game consists of rules that are available off the pitch, these may be discussed orally or read by individuals. Professional teams are supported and lively banter between children will have them routing for their side. With little instructions or intervention children can communicate with each other to organise themselves into teams and have a very good game. | Language| It is important that babies are spoken to regularly and exposed to a variety of rich language. The more they are talked to the more responsive they will be. The more that they hear, allows them to develop a larger and more varied vocabulary. Research shows that there is a link between early language and literacy skills. Increased reading and writing skills can be the foundation for academ ic and social success in the future. | | | | | ————————————————- Influences that affect children’s development Background | | 2. 1 a| Members of your family are the most important people in your child’s life. This includes siblings, aunts and uncles, cousins or even neighbours and good friends. If all is well in their world the chances are that it will be the same for your child. However things do happen that can have an effect on your child’s development and you may not realize it. If a family member becomes ill or dies this can be an emotionally upsetting time not just for the adults involved, but also for the children who have formed an attachment to them. Some less obvious influences may be the ‘expected’ birth of a sibling; the introduction of a new partner or having to move home or school. You should pay attention to any change in your child’s behaviour and check if their learning is being affected. | | Is your culture the same as the environment you are raising you child in? If not you should consider how these differences will affect your child. When English is not your first language it is helpful to your child if you encourage your child to develop this along side their mother tongue. It is important that children are able to speak, write and understand English so that they can have full access to the curriculum and make progress at the same rate as their peers. | Children are known to be a very expensive to raise and educate. Not all parents have the necessary funds to feed and cloth them adequately, let alone provide for extras. Poverty may be recognized by other children if a child does not have the latest fashion or electronic gadget at home. This may lead to a child being excluded from certain playground groups. It has been reported that children from d eprived circumstances do not usually do well aat school as this impacts on most areas of their development. | | Health | | 2. 1 b| Ill health of a mother or baby immediately after birth can have a profound effect on a child. It is in this very early stage of life that infants need the care of a constant caregiver. Any interruption to this process stops the child’s normal attachment progression. This could then result in a child struggling to form close relationships later in life. A child may be unwell occasionally and need to stay off from school for a few days. There will be cause for concern if this becomes a regular pattern. Any child who misses out on school restricts their developmental opportunities. A child who has a physical impairment is understandably restricted in certain areas, such as ovement in the playground and the social interactions that come with play. Support from adults around them is essential to help ensure they are included wherever possible. | | Growth and weight are primary indicators that are used by professionals to monitor the progress and well being of children. Children of the same age are often different shapes and sizes and there are a number of indicators that ca n explain this. For example boys are often bigger than girl, genetics may be responsible for a boy having a short stature and slight frame, or a poor diet may be responsible for a child being overweight. In all these cases reference to a growth chart may provide answers or explanation for their current development position. A pattern emerges over time for each child and cause for alarm would be if there was a sudden or sharp deviation from the normal pattern. The route for a child who was born prematurely will initially be on a lower path than that of a full term baby however it would be expected to ‘catch up’ over time. Even if this was not the case as long as the child was meeting other development goals this would not be an issue in isolation. | | | | | Environment | | 2. 1 c| Where children live has a marked effect on their social and emotional development. Children that live in a nice, clean, graffiti free, residential area are likely to grow up stress free. They will probably live in a single family residence, in a natural setting, with room to run and exercise their gross motor skills. It is likely that they will know their neighbours giving them opportunities for extended social interactions. High rise dwellings; noise and traffic pollution; overcrowding and access to services, all contribute to levels of psychological distress for many children. This manifests itself indirectly as poor interactions with parents and teachers which culminate in poor language and learning development. | | Children are routinely exposed to noise from cars, airplanes, music and other people. It is essential for children to be able to hear properly in order to learn how to read. However, when they are constantly bombarded with acute noise levels they begin to ignore all auditory input. This defense mechanism has been documented by researchers who recorded significantly reduced reading and speech ability. Children’s cognitive development is also compromised by noise pollution as adults and teachers around them struggle to be heard. Teachers can become annoyed, fatigued and impatient in a loud environment. Their teaching style can become compromised as they lose valuable time dealing with distractions. This indirectly deals another blow to the child chances of developing | | Crowding is another factor that has been noted as having a marked effect on children’s development. This phenomenon can affect the only child as well as those from large families. It comes about when a child is placed in an overcrowded situation over which they feel they have no control. Children may withdraw into themselves as a coping strategy. This may occur in a children’s activity area and result in less constructive and interactive play. Language development can be affect as parents speak less to children in crowded situations. There is also a tendency to speak in simple terms, thereby depriving them of the opportunity to hear and learn more complicated words. | | Importance of recognising and responding to concerns | | 2. | As parents you are in the best position to observe and monitor how your child is developing. Conversely when you feel that there is something wrong you should trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to discuss them with your doctor or health care professional. You might notice that your child never makes eye contact with you; perhaps they fail to respond to your voice; or they display sudden and severe mood changes sev eral times throughout the day. Instead of speculating what might be the problem might be on your own, a proper diagnosis is best. Early intervention will identify any problem and work towards solutions can start straight away if necessary. | | If you recognise that there are external issues affecting your child you should respond to them appropriately. As a parent or carer you could share your concerns with your child’s teacher. This will allow them to be alert to the child’s behaviour and they may be able to monitor their progress more closely for a time. It is also important to disclose changes in the family environment, such as a family break up with changes to living arrangements. As I have already said these may well have an effect on the child that the teacher can be forewarned to deal with. | | In some schools you may have direct access to the Special Education Needs Coordinator or the child can be referred to them via the teacher. It is always a good idea to find out from the school who these people are and what is the procedure to get access to them. If you have this information available before you need it you will be able to act quickly and correctly when concerns arise. | | ————————————————- Transitional stages Experienced by most children| | 3. 1| Being bornMilk to solidsCrawling to walkingBeing fed to feeding themselvesNappies to potty trainedUnaware to aware of selfHome to nursery| Nursery to Primary SchoolPrimary School to Senior SchoolPubertySexual awarenessChanging friendshipsHandling financesGetting a job * | | * Puberty * * You will need to watch out for Puberty, or adolescence as it is sometimes called. This is the natural transition that your child will go through on the way to becoming an adult. Aside from the growth spurt that occurs at this time for both sexes, girls will have their first period, and boys experience their first ‘wet dream’ (nighttime emission) and voice breaking etc. Less physical changes are the physiological, behavioural and relationships. The enormity of these changes may be overwhelming for a child who feels that there is something actually wrong with them but they are too afraid to ask anyone. The stress adolescents feel during these times of change can lead them to try drink or drugs as a coping strategy. Others may experiment with substance abuse or engage in risky sexual behaviour. There are various consequences that can come about from this behaviour such as contracting sexually transmitted diseases; teenage pregnancy or even death from addiction overdose or suicide * | | * These scenarios have been well studied and documented, they are included here not to alarm but to make you aware and equip you with pointers that will help you recognise situations that can be emotionally tough for your child. Stay involved with your child during these transitions and encourage them to talk to you about anything and everything, listen to them without judgment. Does your child feel neglected? Set aside some special time with them to show your interest and this will give you an opportunity to pick up on problems or changes in their behaviour. Prompt your child to talk about their experience or knowledge of different substances and the abuse of them. You have every right to know who your child is friends with and keep track of their movements. Again research has shown that children whose activities are not monitored by their parents are 4 times more likely to use drugs. Any observation of changes or disturbing behaviour should alert you to seek the help of professionals at an early stage. | | Experienced by some children | | 3. 2| A new siblingDomestic violenceBullyingEmotional abuseParents separating/divorcingSerious illness (child/parent)Family member diesUnexpected change of schoolMoving house| Physical/sexual abuseSeparation from familyParent(s) in prisonLooked after by local authorityMarriage (consensual/forced)Learn to driveGoing to universityChange group of friendsCo ming out as gay or lesbian| | * Going to University * * You might think this is great for you and your child. You have encouraged and supported them for years. They have studied hard and beat off stiff competition for a place at the university of their choice. Nevertheless, their departure is a significant milestone for the family as it ushers in a new transition and time of separation that everyone will have to get used to. Unless the family is quite wealthy the stress of financing higher education can have a negative impact on all. The adjustment for students away from home for the first time can have an effect on their mental health. The ‘empty nest’ left behind may give you as parents a feeling of loss as you relinquish some of your parental control. * The impact of university on students gives them a newfound sense of freedom as they are off the radar in terms of parental restrictions and rules. However, they will be confronted by new and different pressures as they take control of their lives. They now have to learn to live with a new ‘family’ and learn how they are now to behave with this new group of people . The opportunity for study is obviously available but so is the list of other things to do and places to go. It can be a time of sensory overload as course work and parties vie for attention. As a parent you should encourage your child to explore new interests, meet new people and discover their new surroundings, with the proviso that getting an education should be the foremost concern. Encourage them to seek out professors or other adults who can keep them focused and grounded. Ensure they know where to turn for help if they do encounter problems whether they are academic or emotional. * * In the midst of students finding their independence and doing fine – you may be in receipt of a tearful phone call. You may try to advise from a distance but this is not always possible. Work out ways to stay connected and involved by doing little things to remind them they are in your thoughts. Sending cards or notes with pictures of events they have missed can help to let them know they are loved and it is not a case of ‘out of sight out of mind’. * | | Affect of transitions on children’s behaviour and development | | 3. 3| At some time children will have to leave the comfort of their home and move on to some form of semi formal or formal education. This might initially be at a playgroup, nursery or reception class. Whichever route they take it is a time of major change for them and the way they handle it should be monitored closely. Children who have been used to one on one attention may struggle with having to share the teacher with the rest of their classmates. However those who have had a secure and happy upbringing will be emotionally mature enough to cope with the change. Children of a more delicate nature may regress in their behaviour and need reassurance to participate. They may suck their thumb for comfort or cling to a favorite toy or object. Sensitive handling of these actions will help them through and build up confidence to a point where learning is not hindered. | | Children who are looked after have been prematurely separated from parents. If this takes place in the formative years it is likely that they will have attachment issues. When this happens a child can become emotionally stuck at the age they were when the separation took place. This can then have a detrimental affect on how they view making attachments with others who are tasked with looking after them. The defense mechanism is now set to I will act up and refuse to engage with you just in case you up and leave me too. Every effort must be made to engage these special children and help them overcome their disadvantaged circumstances. Universities are well aware of the problems faced by students, especially in the first year, and have systems in place to deal with these transitions. | | ———————————————— References If you wish to do some more research or reading on the subject here are some of the books and websites I found useful when writing this booklet. Supporting teaching and learning in schools: Louise Burnham & Brenda Baker, 2010 6 to 16 Child Development: Penny Tassoni, 2007 The effects of the Physical Environment on Children’s Develo pment: Dr Gary Evans http://www. parenting. cit. cornell. edu/documents/Physical-Environment-Evans. pdf www. nhs. co. uk www. pampers. co. uk