The History of Domestic Violence Essay - 2946 Words

Domestic Violence is a critical issue negatively impacting women in the world today. There has to be something done to prevent this type of abuse from happening. The results of my research revealed that there are many victims that do not know the type of help that is available and there needs to be major improvement in the way domestic violence cases are handled. Based on my findings, awareness and prevention programs should be implemented in every state in order prevent this type of abuse from happening over and over. Also, each program must be monitored to ensure they are following the proper guidelines in order to better serve the victims and their families. Has domestic violence stemmed from the mental abuse suffered by our†¦show more content†¦This began to change in the 1980s, as women’s groups were organized locally and internationally to demand attention to the physical, psychological, and economic abuse of women (p.369-370). Domestic violence is a serious social issue that happens to many women in our world today. This type of abuse is not declining but continually rising on a daily basis. There have been issues in the past with the way these cases were being handled. Today, there has been some improvement concerning the laws that have been enforced in order to protect women from this type of abuse. There has been extensive research done on this issue in the past concerning domestic violence. Over the last ten years there have been a number of surveys on domestic violence that have been published from around the world. The problem of domestic violence is on the rise and causing more harm than ever to its victims and their family. Even though there are so many domestic violence cases in the world today, there are still many people in the United States today that are unaware of how serous this crime has become. The explanation for this may be that there are many households that have not ever experienced any type of violence in their home. Many victims of this type of abuse have been misleading by their abuser that they do not even realize that they are victims of domestic violence. Domestic violence causesShow MoreRelatedThe History of Domestic Violence1784 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction Domestic violence started back in the days of Roman Empire however, it was not recognised in Australia as a crime until the early 70’s, Davidson, (1977 cited in Edleson, 1999 ). Furthermore, children who witness this crime are only now beginning to be recognised as victims. These victims and the long term effects of witnessing physical abuse in their home on a regular basis is only new territory that statistics are being done, in comparison with adult victims. Domestic abuse is someoneRead MoreDomestic Violence Throughout History780 Words   |  4 PagesDomestic Violence Throughout History Summary: Domestic violence has been apart of society forever, and it rooted in traditional male dominance and the view of women as property. Still, domestic violence is still a problem that takes place regardless of the socio-economic status of a family. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Domestic violence is as old as recorded history. There have been reports of domestic violence since the dawn of timeRead MoreGibson 1. Josie Gibson . Mrs. Archila . Eng 102. 24 March1276 Words   |  6 PagesGibson 1 Josie Gibson Mrs. Archila ENG 102 24 March 2017 Synthesis Domestic violence is an ongoing epidemic affecting people around the world. Over the years, the problem of domestic violence has raised an abundance of questions: how serious is the issue, and what actions could be implemented to prevent it? In the article â€Å"Domestic Violence Has Been a Problem Throughout U.S. History†, it explains how the issue of domestic violence has been going on for decades; however, did not get address until recentRead MoreDomestic Violence : An Individual Crisis815 Words   |  4 PagesDomestic violence is not merely an individual crisis, but a social crisis. â€Å"Domestic violence is a burden on numerous sectors of the social system and quietly, yet dramatically, affects the development of a nation. Batterers cost nations fortunes in terms of law enforcement, health care, lost labor and general progress in development. These costs do not only affect the present generation; what begins as an assault by one person on another, reverberates through the family and the community into theRead MoreThe Effects Of Domestic Violence On Children s Mental Health941 Words   |  4 PagesIntroduction to Domestic Violence Domestic violence refers to any occurrence of threatening abuse, behavior, or violence (financial, emotional, physical, psychological, or sexual) between adults who are present or past intimate partners or family members (Hester, Pearson, Harwin, 2006, p. 18). It is also known by an assortment of other names: battering, family violence, marital abuse, partner abuse, and wife beating, just to name a few. Domestic violence can be described as choking, burning, beatingRead MoreDomestic Violence : A Global Phenomenon1653 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction Domestic violence is considered a global phenomenon; research suggests that up to fifty percent of women worldwide have been physically abused by their intimate partner. Domestic violence can be defined as an incident or threatening behavior regarding violence or abuse between adults who are or have been considered intimate partners (Bradbury-Jones, C., Duncan, F., Kroll, T., Moy, M., Taylor, J. 2011, p 35). Domestic Violence is a serious and prevalent health issue that affects victimsRead MoreVulnerable Populations1382 Words   |  6 PagesPopulations: Domestic Violence Victims University of Phoenix Domestic violence is something that haunts our society, and has done so for a long time. Critical thinking must be used when dealing with such large scale issues, and domestic violence is no different. The causes and issues with domestic violence are complex, taking an in depth look and truly analyzing the problem is necessary in understanding the problem and making a difference. This paper will discuss domestic violence in depthRead MoreDomestic Violence1340 Words   |  6 PagesDomestic Violence is a problem sweeping the nation. This problem can affect anyone from anywhere but is generally acting out upon children and adult women in abusive relationships. Domestic violence is emotionally and physically scarring for anyone involved, and as a result could take multiple intervention meetings to begin to understand the issue, alleviate the associated problems, and to assist the victim in getting back on his or her feet. The consequences of abuse include anxiety, depressionRead MoreD omestic Violence At Affordable Price Please Use Custom Research Paper1276 Words   |  6 PagesDomestic Violence Research Paper This sample domestic violence research paper is published for educational and informational purposes only. Free research papers, are not written by our writers, they are contributed by users, so we are not responsible for the content of this free sample paper. If you want to buy a high quality research paper on domestic violence at affordable price please use custom research paper writing services. This sample research paper on domestic violence features: 7200+Read MoreThe Effects Of Past And Current Domestic Violence Towards Women Essay1461 Words   |  6 Pagesharassment, domestic violence and even some of the laws that are put in place to protect and demean women’s rights. The purpose of this paper is to inform readers that there are many issues that lead up to a woman killing their abuser/husbands, such as the harsh history of violent used against women by their husband, involvement of church, fear for children in the home, and having limited resources to safely leave. This paper will also inform readers of the effects of past and current domestic violence

Gender plays an important role in society. It points out...

Gender plays an important role in society. It points out men, women, their actions, and how they should behave according to societys perception (Gender Roles Differences,2014). Being male or female is an essential aspect that makes up and helps individuals with their personality and the way they feel about themselves. Gender identity is what someone calls themselves or how they identify themselves. Children between 18 months and 3 years of age are aware of theirgender identity (Understanding Gender,2014). Gender is something that is learned as individuals age because of what is being taught and the different interactions.For some people, gender identity is not the same as their biological or anatomical sex. This is a disorder also†¦show more content†¦She altered her appeareance in which she cut her hair, bandage down her breast, change clothes, put a sock in her jeans, and renamed herself Brandon Teena. Brandons actions show his desire to be a man. He began to actually adopt the male gender role. The psychological concept of gender identity is much more than just homosexuality it is a male gender identity that does not coincide with his biological female sexuality. In gender terminology, Brandons behavior and actions would fall under the catergory of transgender. It refers to someone whose gender does not match their assigned gender when they were born (Understanding Gender,2014). People who are transgender feel like theyre living inside the wrong body more so trapped in som eone elses body(Nemours, Transgender People,1995). There is an scene in the movie where Brandon and his mother are having a conversation about Brandons sexual orientation. The mother asks Brandon,Are you a Lesbian? and Brandon replies,Thats disgusting. I cant be with a woman that way. I love them the way a man does. Its like Im really a man trapped inside this body.(Boys Dont Cry,1999). There is no exact explanation for why a person feels the way they do about theirself. According to Brandons mother he was sexually molested as a child (Wikipedia, Boys Dont Cry Film,2014). In this case, this could be one explanation for Brandons behavior but it is not for certain. Boys Dont Cry shows gender identity as Brandon Teenas life inShow MoreRelatedShe by H. Rider Haggard and Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe1114 Words   |  4 PagesHow are the roles and representations of females in the texts She by H. Rider Haggard and Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe presented? Given two different situations the women are in, the outcome is close to the same. Ayesha in She plays a role she created for herself in the Amahagger community, which can be contrasted with the culture the novel was written in by the author at the time. The women in Things Fall Apart are also as such represented by their culture, and can be compared to the femaleRead MoreAnalysis Of Farewell My Concubine By Lillian Lee1677 Words   |  7 PagesThe postcolonial period characterized the analysis of various gender roles as imposed in the overall theatrical convention regarding men who impersonated women in the Chinese films. In the film namely ‘’Farewell my Concubine,â€⠄¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ gives a description of what initially started as something that meant well in artistic and cultural tradition of the east but was later turned into feminization of the genders in the society. Chen Kaige directed the movie in the year 1993. It is based on novel done by LillianRead MoreRedefining Gender Roles Of A Streetcar Named Desire1605 Words   |  7 Pages103 8 May 2016 Dissecting Gender Roles in A Streetcar Named Desire The representation of gender roles is among the most prominent recurring subjects in theatre, literature and expressive art as we know it. Gender, and what it means to human beings, is a subject that is as difficult to precisely define as death, race, and the concept of existence. Anne Beall, Ph.D. graduate in Social Psychology at Yale University, details in her book The Psychology of Gender that â€Å"Gender is socially defined masculinityRead MoreGender Stereotypes In Mulan1673 Words   |  7 Pagessignificant impact on how these groups are viewed in reality. The media is very powerful when it comes to raising awareness about certain groups, which is important to understand. What the media portrays is often what is perceived. Instead of using the media to strengthen stereotypes among people, the media should be used to stop stereotyping once and for all. While gender stereotypes do unfortunately exist, representations of gender in pop culture can have a positive impact by allowi ng society to see theseRead MoreFantomina: the Manipulator of Situations1503 Words   |  7 PagesFantomina: The manipulator of situations Fantomina is a novella describing how a young woman Fantomina goes about trying to seduce Beauplaisir.Fantomina details the events of how a young woman curiosity leads her into â€Å"faked prostitution† and ultimately falling in love with Beauplaisir.The novella chronicles how the young woman does whatever she can through disguising her identity to be always with the one she has fallen in with, Beauplaisir.The story ends when Fantomina gets pregnant and isRead MoreA Doll s House By Henrik Ibsen1358 Words   |  6 PagesHenrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House was ahead of its times in more ways than one. It was one of the first works of drama to undertake the social issues surrounding gender. Ibsen portrays, through his character Nora, that women continue to gain power in male-controlled societies. When the play was first introduced to the public it was shocking, simply due to Ibsen painting his characters as they would be in real life (or what Ibsen saw in his own lif e). In pre-modern Norway authors began â€Å"testing the norm†Read MoreMedea As A Feminist Hero1378 Words   |  6 Pagesportrayed as a feminist hero. In a society where men are clearly the dominant figure, Medea stood her ground and allowed no man to change her views. The society stereotype where men are the more powerful, dominant gender was definitely prevalent and recognized in Ancient Greece at the time. Women living in this society were discriminated against daily and were looked at as less important. Medea was a play meant to show the unequal treatment of women in Greek society during the time. Medea is portrayedRead MoreToy Story1455 Words   |  6 Pagesthey put on your kid’s face when you see them playing with them on a daily basis. What if toys could talk? What information would they give us? What would they tell us? Recently I set out on a quest to better understand what information I could get just by looking at the toys in my local neighborhood toy stor e and how they shape the mind of kids from a young age. Unfortunately for me, the day I went to the toy store there were not many people shopping, so this made my research a little harder to completeRead More Was Shakespeare a Profeminist? 641 Words   |  3 Pagesthe centuries, gender roles have always existed. Women and men have been assigned certain traits based on their gender. This idea that one trait belongs to only one character is brought up in Macbeth. The gender roles in Shakespeare’s play, Macbeth, don’t necessarily stick to the common ones that stood at the time. In Macbeth, Shakespeare plays with the idea of gender roles by giving traits of the opposite gender to different characters and questions whether these roles are important or not. TheRead MoreWomen in Leadership Roles1671 Words   |  7 Pagesexamines the research on gender equity in educational leadership published since 1997until 2010. Even though women attaining jobs in school leadership has increased, women still do not fill administrative positions in comparison to men. The majority of research related to women and leadership examines the barriers women face in entering or moving up in the leadership hierarchy. Looking at the differences and similarities in how men and women take on and exercise leadership roles, the authors of the

Reflective Journal on Introduction to Leadership for Trait Theory

Question: Discuss about theReflective Journal on Introduction to Leadership for Trait Theory. Answer: The concept of leadership can influence a group of individuals towards a certain goal or to achieve a particular objective. This is done by the managing body by using their formal rank on organizational members. According to Binod et al. (2013), leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want to be done because he wants to do it. Leadership Theories Trait Theory Trait theory is a theory of leadership that consider traits or behavioral patterns of an individual. These patterns can be ambition, energy, physics and including social behavior. A desire to step up and lead is also a trait one of the traits that show or increase leadership chances in an individual. Integrity and honesty to be able to point and differentiate leaders from non-leaders is also an important and most valued trait in leadership. Other traits include but not limited to job-relevant knowledge, self-confidence, self-motivation and drive and intelligence. However, no one known trait automatically shows or point straight to leadership. There is also no clear evidence that leadership and traits are related (David Russell, 2014). Behavioral Theories This is a theory suggesting that specific behaviors differentiate those who can lead from those who cannot. It is to be differentiated from trait theory as it means that leaders can be taught or trained while trait theory suggests that leaders are born, and not made. This theory attempts to uncover the behaviors in which leaders engage, rather than what traits a leader possesses. From a study at Iowa State University, Eyun?Jung Linda (2012) concentrated on leadership style theory and came up with two basic styles Autocratic leadership style: This style is where a leader made decisions and tell the employees what to do and closely supervises them. Democratic leadership style: This is where the employees are encouraged to participate in decision-making and are to carry out their duties with no supervision whatsoever. Different styles were needed for different situations, and each leader needed to know when to exhibit a particular approach. Autocratic Leadership Style This is a classical approach where manager retains a lot of power, and all the decision-making authority stays with him. He avoids consulting his stuff by not allowing any input, and on the other hand, the staff is expected to obey without question. With this type of leadership style, the structure is set on punishment and reward. It was, however, greatly criticized some years back as it is highly staff resistant. It uses threats and punishment to influence the employees and therefore may demoralize them, and consequently, the trust between the employer and employees is lost (Farhad Akram, 2012). Autocratic leadership, however, does not mean that this style of leadership is all bad. It comes in handy when there are new and untrained staffs who do not know what duties to perform or the processes to follow. It also provides effective and well-organized work as supervision gives order and discipline. Staff may also need to be well supervised as not all of them listen and follow instructions and hence need someone to be tough on them. When there is no time to involve the stuff, and a quick decision is needed, then this approach is needed as it saves time. The style is also effective when duties are to be delegated and shared to other organizations. As much as it is necessary to use this type of leadership often, there are situations where it is not a good idea to use it. This is when I get tense, and other employees are fearful, employees need to have their opinions heard, the employees only need their leader to make decisions for them. Therefore, it may lead to low staff morale and absenteeism. Bureaucratic Leadership Style This is the kind of leadership style that operates by the book. Bureaucratic leadership is where everything is done according to the procedure. It is well effective when the staff needs to be taught certain rules and procedures, their safety is paramount, and they need to be well coached and often more preferred when the type of work is where cash is involved. According to Liwen Jingkun (2015), there are limitations to this leadership style. It is ineffective when staff loses interest, and lack motivation, when work habits become hard to break even after what need is to be done is already done, when works become lazy and do not want to learn or do more and when they lose interest in their co-workers, hence discouraging team spirit. Democratic Leadership Style This is also known as participative style. It is where staff participation is required and encouraged. They are included in the decision-making and are involved in all happenings of the workplace, and they become part of the workplace family. Everything affecting them in the workplace is made known, and they come together to find a solution. A democratic leader is an individual leader who creates plans to help staff to be better besides providing room for improvement them. Moreover, this type of leadership is where an employer encourages the employees to seek promotions and to make goals. It is effective when the employees need to be informed of changes and reforms in the workplace. Employees may also need the influence to grow and achieve more, and also when the workers need to be included in decision-making and problem-solving duties. When team building also needs to do, this type of leadership style should be used. Laissez-Faire Leadership Style This is known as a hands-off type of leadership, where the leader provides little or no supervision and leaves the work to the employees, thus giving them freedom as needed. The employees are given authority over all workplace duties including decision-making and problem-solving. It is used when the employees are highly skilled and experienced, where they pride in their work and are self-driven towards success, and when they can be trusted (McManus, 2011). Importance of Leadership Qualities to Managers Activity: numerous a period's decent leadership abilities make me more prone to have a decent feeling of activity henceforth I don't hold up to be advised to perform obligations. My groundbreaking makes me more outcome situated and more prepared to offer answers for issues that emerge. Ingenuity: leadership aptitudes improve your capacity to discover better approaches for getting things done in an association. You are propelled by the capacity to change or re-make basic practices, which are all there to profit the work environment. Master liveliness: leadership aptitudes enhance your capacity to be proactive. Pioneers don't only 'purpose to do' however they really 'play out.' The 'entertainers' are the ones who are viewed just like the most dependable and profitable. On the off chance that you can obediently complete composed plans without hesitation, at that point you are demonstrating that you can assume the responsibility of the circumstance rather than simply react to them. Here are portions of the numerous qualities that make me a decent pioneer. Basic leadership. This is having the capacity to pick two blueprints at the time. My capacity to settle on grounded and snappy choices without trouble in demonstrate hatred for the greater part of the choices accessible likewise indicates I have incredible critical thinking aptitudes. A decent leader bases their choices through a decent adjust of enthusiastic and coherent thinking; this implies considering the certainties and in addition the path in which a choice will impact others (Pederzini, 2016). Time-administration. This ability runs as an inseparable unit with being sorted out. Having the capacity to hush up about timetables you set and needs well while meeting due dates. This is significantly more basic when you are in the position of driving a group as you should outline courses of events well for everybody. Appealing. Certainty and decisiveness pioneers have a specific quality of character and a solid feeling of independence. Charisma is a characteristic trademark that makes it simple to impact others. Open talking aptitudes specifically build up your level of allure and capacity to be sway crowds. Listening. Leaders should not be busy but able to five a listening ear to employees inputs and help carry them out accordingly while taking into account each and everybodys concerns. All the above skills and qualities are what help management run and have productive workplaces. Leadership in Teams and Organizations In practice, leaders set clear visions, and by doing this, they influence workers to comprehend and acknowledge the coming changes of the association. For instance, a unit of youthful troopers might not have confidence in a specific mission requested by their boss, yet a decent officer or leader will impact the fighters to do their obligations by letting them know of the vision and the significance of their part in the outcome. With that, the officers are more disposed to take after the leader. As indicated by Pederzini (2016), propelling representatives is to discover enough about the necessities and prerequisites of workers, accommodating them what they need and compliment them for an occupation well done. Being a long way from home is desolate for a youthful warrior. Utilizing a similar case, a great leader knows and will speak with his gathering to get more contribution on their requirements and needs. It is generally as straightforward as giving the troopers a sweet treat for their endeavors. Developing Leadership in an Organization For an organizing to be developed, skills need to be sharpened and looked into well. Decision-making; this is being able to choose two blueprints at the time. Your capacity to settle on grounded and brisk choices without trouble in demonstrate hatred for the greater part of the choices accessible additionally indicates you have incredible critical thinking abilities. A decent chief base their choices through a decent adjust of enthusiastic and sensible thinking; this implies considering the actualities and in addition the route in which a choice will impact others. Time-administration, this expertise runs as an inseparable unit with being composed. Having the capacity to remain quiet about timetables you set and needs well while meeting due dates. Time administration aptitudes are much more basic when you are in the position of driving a group as you should delineate timetables well for everybody. Appealing; certainty and confidence leaders have a specific quality of character and a solid feeling of independence. Charm is a characteristic trademark that makes it simple to impact others. Open talking aptitudes specifically build up the level of charisma and capacity to hold a conversation with a group of people effectively (Watkins et al., 2012). References Binod K. Shrestha and Devi R. Gnyawali, 2013. Insights on strategic management practices in Nepal. South Asian Journal of Global Business Research, 2(2), pp. 191-210. David Giles Russell Yates, 2014. Enabling educational leaders: qualitatively surveying an organization's culture. International Journal of Organizational Analysis, pp. 94-106. Eyun?Jung Ki, Linda C. Hon, 2012. Causal linkages among relationship quality perception, attitude, and behavior intention in a membership organization. Corporate Communications: An International Journal, 17(2). Farhad A. and Akram S., 2012. Strategic management: the case of NGOs in Palestine. Management Research Review, 35(6), pp. 473-489. Liwen Tan, Jingkun Ding, 2015. The frontier and evolution of the strategic management theory: A scientometric analysis of Strategic Management Journal, 2001-2012. Nankai Business Review International, 6(1), pp. 20-41. McManus, J., 2011. Revisiting ethics in strategic management. Corporate Governance: The International Journal of Business in Society, 11(2), pp. 214-223. Pederzini, G. D. A., 2016. Strategic management cultures: historical connections with science. Journal of Management History, 22(2), pp. 214-235. Watkins R., Meisers M.W Visser Y., 2012. A guide to assessing Needs, Tools for collecting information, making decisions and achieving development results. Washington: World Bank Publications.

USA- Spain an Example by

USA- Spain Spain is as diverse as any other country, especially for non-natives. However, several principles of human resources still apply to companies based in Spain where employees are most likely Spanish. These general principles along with specific ones can help improve job satisfaction, improve motivation, and increase performance in all departments. Need essay sample on "USA- Spain" topic? We will write a custom essay sample specifically for you Proceed First, it should be understood how diversity should be put to an advantage. Differences among employees are nothing new to international businesses. Thus, the differences should be identified and all efforts should be put in understanding them and putting them in their proper perspectives. For instance, adjusting in the time differences in the work schedules of workers in Spain should be made. The first consideration is that superiors should understand the culture of siesta. Because workers used in this culture may find it difficult to go back to work with the same level of energy that they have in the morning, managers should promote activities that will perk them up when they go back to work in the afternoon after the siesta break. Siesta is not the only cultural difference that Spain has over the United States and other countries. The Geert Hofstede Cultural Dimensions (Hofstede, 2003) indicate some job-related factors that make Spanish workplaces different from those in the United States. First, the power distance index in Spain is greater than in the United States. This shows that hierarchy is important for Spanish workers. Thus, line of functions if there are any should be closely observed. Superiority should be well respected and job descriptions should be followed. Giving regard to hierarchy is important for the Spanish so non-natives should be sensitive about it to avoid offending them. Americans are more liberal than the Spanish. This is evident in the high margin that it maintains over Spain in terms of individualism. Thus, American workers can be used to speaking out and speaking up, while the Spanish can keep restraint and avoid deviance. This can pose a problem for Americans new to Spain especially in the workplaces where team work is essential. (Hofstede, 2003) In view of this, Americans should not take it negatively if they find it hard for their Spanish workers to contribute actively at work. While Spanish workers can also exercise initiative, it is not a general practice for them to precede the initiative of their superiors because, as mentioned above, they highly regard hierarchy and power distance. Americans, thus, should mean well by being more encouraging to their Spanish workers and giving constructive criticism to their initiatives. It should also be noted well that the lack of individualism can make the Spanish sensitive with outright negative criticism. Unlike in the United States, Spanish workers may not take criticism told straight up easily. Americans in Spain should know this so that they may avoid this which can greatly affect the work performance of their workers. Where history was discriminative and regarded women as second-class citizens everywhere once, Hofstede (2003) claims that masculinity is greater in the United States than in Spain. This may induce the fact that American workplaces can be more male-dominated than Spanish workplaces. However, it should not be concluded that American workplaces are more discriminative. In fact, American firms are drastically enforcing measures to avoid all forms of discrimination including against women. In view of an American in a Spanish workplace, however, care should be taken that discrimination against women that may be normal in a United States setting is avoided. In fact, discrimination of any form should be eliminated at any angle. It should be noted that diversity does not make a specific culture more superior than others. This will foster good relations among employees and employers however diverse the setting may be. Americans are individualistic, and so it follows that they can be adventurous as well. Hofstede (2003) showed that the Spanish avoid uncertainties and can play things safely more than their American counterparts. This is essential especially for stakeholders and high-ranks. Knowing that the Spanish can be less adventurous, they should make sure that every step they take in the business that they are handling are carefully studied and backed up with relevant and updated data. This lessens the risks in their decisions which may repel Spanish partners and officers from supporting their proposals. If they show that every single detail of the proposal has been studied, they are more likely to endorse the proposal and enforce it. As with workers, managers should show workers how a decision has been made, and how it can affect the workers and the company both positively and negatively. Laying the cards straight will enable the workers to get a view of the situation and clarify doubts and qu estions that they may have early on. As risk-taking behavior is evidently essential for businesses to maintain their competitive edge, Americans should be sensitive about the play-safe behavior of the Spanish and should work around it. The more one adheres to the culture of one country, the easier it is for him to blend in. Reading about the country and its people as well as seeking guidance from a native can very well improve ones staying power in a Spain-based company. Avoiding saying words that one does not understand is one key. The Spanish uses a language that is totally different from that of Americans, and so it should be understood that using the language should be taken with care. This will dispel slip-of-the-tongues and mispronunciations which can be funny and worse offensive to native speakers of the language. Dressing is another consideration. While corporate dressing is a universal language, it can still be highly variable in consideration of the climate changes in the country and the comfort of the people there. Thus, while one is get used to specific clothing items in his centrally air-conditioned office, if it does not fit well in the workplace in Spain (even if it is equally air-conditioned and the position and company is the same), deviant clothes should go and replaced with ones which will allow one to blend in. Diversity is a challenge that multinational companies face every single day. Yet, this should not stifle companies from prospering. Again, fostering these differences for the advantage of the company is the key to creating a homogenous group of workers who can co-exist despite major incompatibilities. In the end, it will appear true that managing diversity in the workplace is the only way that companies can penetrate the global business scene. References Hofstede, G. (2003). Geert Hofstede cultural dimensions. Retrieved June 7, 2007, http://www.geert-hofstede.com/hofstede_dimensions.php This essay is written by top academic experts from our essay writing service (USA).

Music Education essays

Music Education essays Do you remember your first elementary school Christmas program, your little sisters piano recital, or those Friday night football half-time shows? What about the first musical you sat through on a field-trip or the band you wanted to form when you were fifteen? These are all common experiences for Americas youth. It would be correct to say that, at times, music is shoved down our throats, and is forced upon us by some higher authority. Of course, it is all done for our own good. But who decided that music was so important? Who decided that music education was valuable to the American people? Is music education really that valuable or is it just a luxury that we could live without? With the shrinking budgets that schools are facing today, these questions are being raised. Many argue that fine arts education is not essential to children while others argue that fine arts education teaches valuable skills that can be carried across the whole curriculum and into adulthood and, th us, is essential. Educational goals for Americas youth are set by the state and national governments. These goals are set to try to ensure that children and young adults receive the type of quality education that will help them in the successful world. In 1991, national goals in education were issued by President Bush and the nation's governors. These goals were to be achieved by the year 2000. According to Karl Glenn in the NASSP (National Association of Secondary School Principals) Bulletin: "These goals call for American students to be ' first in the world' in science and math achievement and to demonstrate competency over challenging subject matter including English, mathematics, science, history, and geography" (Glenn, 1). Music education and other fine arts education were not seen as important or even minimally essential. This sent a clear message to the public that fine arts education is of little value to America's youth. ...

Proper Parallel Construction of Sentences with Not, Neither, and No Longer

Proper Parallel Construction of Sentences with Not, Neither, and No Longer Proper Parallel Construction of Sentences with Not, Neither, and No Longer Proper Parallel Construction of Sentences with Not, Neither, and No Longer By Mark Nichol When writing sentences in which a comparison is made with not, neither, or â€Å"no longer† as the focus of the contrast, be vigilant about achieving logical parallel structure, as discussed and demonstrated in the explanations about and revisions to the following examples. 1. Becoming a better parent is not about becoming a different person, but doing what it takes to do less of the behavior that is not true to who you are. When the contrasting word or phrase (in this case, not) is associated with the preposition about, which is often the case, if not precedes about at the beginning of a point, about must be repeated at the beginning of the counterpoint: â€Å"Becoming a better parent is not about becoming a different person but about doing what it takes to do less of the behavior that is not true to who you are† (a â€Å"not about [this] but about [that]† construction). Alternatively, precede not with about for a â€Å"about not (this) but (that)† construction: â€Å"Becoming a better parent is about not becoming a different person, but doing what it takes to do less of the behavior that is not true to who you are.† 2. This publication is neither intended to be a legal analysis nor a detailed cookbook of steps to take in every situation. In a neither/nor construction such as this one, when the key verb (here, intended) applies to nor as well as to neither, the word must precede the first word as well as the second: â€Å"This publication is intended to be neither a legal analysis nor a detailed cookbook of steps to take in every situation.† Alternatively, revise the sentence to hinge on not and or rather than neither and nor: â€Å"This publication is not intended to be a legal analysis or a detailed cookbook of steps to take in every situation.† 3. Compliance is no longer viewed primarily as a legal risk to be avoided, but rather an operational one to be monitored. Similarly, when employing â€Å"no longer† to compare a previous state with a current one, make sure that the verb or verb phrase before â€Å"no longer† is located so that the verb applies both to that phrase and to the concluding part of the sentence describing the current state: â€Å"Compliance is primarily viewed no longer as a legal risk to be avoided, but rather as an operational one to be monitored.† Alternatively, convert the second half of the sentence to an independent clause by inserting a verb: â€Å"Compliance is no longer viewed primarily as a legal risk to be avoided; rather, it is an operational one to be monitored.† Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Style category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:12 Signs and Symbols You Should KnowSocial vs. SocietalComma After Introductory Phrases

Comparison of Scripting Languages Research Paper

Comparison of Scripting Languages - Research Paper Example They are categorized into scientific concerned and general purpose scripting languages. Examples of scientific based one are Matlab and Octave while those of general purpose are python and Perl. However, we are going to compare and contrast Matlab, Python, and Octave scripting languages by analyzing. According to Chapman, Matlab is a computer program enhanced to perform scientific and engineering calculations (2008). It started as a program to calculate matrix mathematics but with time, it improved to a malleable calculating program capable of resolvingbasically any technical difficult. Python is a dynamically, securely, and powerfully typed language. Python offers the clean and easy word order of the prevalent scientific calculating environments, grounded on your preferredhigh-performance FORTRAN, C, and C++ codes (Langtangen, 2008). While Octave is software, same as Matlab that has a well-matched scripting interface. However, Octave image processing purposes are not as broad as tho se provided by Matlab. Python, Matlab, and Octave scripting languages have many things in common. They have no affirmation of variables, and simple and suitable word order that make them easy to use ad to learn. In addition, they easily go together with GUIs, simulation, and visualization. However, Matlab and Octave are more independent languages, while Python requires coupling with several other packages in order to make an environment of reasonable functionality. Federico argues that, dynamic typing is easily found in scripting languages such as Python, while in Matlab and Octave both dynamic and static typing is found (2010). In addition, Python is much stronger programming language compared to Matlab and Octave making it the most convenient to use in computing scientific calculations. However, this python feature makes it to be preferred to by scientists can perform weighty operations compared to Matlab and Octave. The time needed to load and change input files folder of the Mat lab, Octave, and Python differ considerably. Python is the fastest followed by Matlab and Octave respectively. These show that Python can load fastest compared to the other two, however, it is the best in loading. In terms of the power structure examination, Python has the best performance compared to Matlab and Octave. This makes it efficient in the calculation and extremely fast compared to Matlab, though, Octave is the slowest of all. These clearly illustrate that Python programming language is stronger compared to Matlab and Octave. The Python, Matlab, and Octave environments differ considerably. The Python environment is incredibly open and is made in such a way that external tool can be integrated with it. For example, calling a program like FORTRAN from the Python is extremely easier, and the Python borders can take benefit of object- concerned scheme and easy gluing to GUIs, and visualization. However, calculating with FORTRAN from these boarders can be done in either short scripts or interacting full over a Python shell. Therefore, Python interfaces can be used to existing libraries like a way of making your own custom-made environment for resolving predicaments. Conversely, Matlab and Octave environments are not open, therefore, they cannot be easily be integrated with external tools. The characteristic of the toolbox of the Python, Matlab, and Octave also differ according to how can be contained. In Matlab and Octave, the toolbox is mostly characterized by a

Redemption exercise (finance management) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Redemption exercise (finance management) - Essay Example (c)Oak plc uses a ‘moderate matching policy’ for the financing of its non-current assets and working capital. Using the diagram below, which shows a moderate matching policy explain the meaning of the term ‘moderate ‘in relation to financing of assets and distinguish a moderate matching policy from (i) an aggressive policy and (ii) a conservative policy. (10 marks). Moderate matching policy calls for matching assets and liabilities maturity. That is all of the fixed assets plus the permanent current assets are financed with long term capital, but temporary current assets are finance with short term debt (Brigham & Ehrhardt, 2013). It is policy that enables firms to finance some of its permanent assets with short term debt. That is, all of the current assets – fluctuating and permanent current assets- and part of non-current assets are financed with short term credit. a) Factoring is a means of utilizing accounts receivables to generate cash flow by selling them to a factor and thereby effectively converting credit sales to cash sales. The buyer of the goods is notified to make payments to the factor. Invoice discounting is the provision of finance against the security of a certain percentage of receivables. The title to the invoice and the rights to the proceeds remain with the seller. The financier will purchase a company’s invoice at a discount but the management of receivables and collection will remain with the company (Brigham & Ehrhardt, 2013). (c)Describe the effect overtrading would have on the main accounting ratios. (You may wish to consider the following ratios: acid test ratio, inventory days, trade receivable days, trade payable days and current ratio) (10 marks) The growth in sales volume increases the inventory and receivables. This will affect the working capital management efficiency leading to an increase in the trade receivable and

Coca-Cola Marketing Plan Essay Example for Free

Coca-Cola Marketing Plan Essay A. Introduction The Coca-Cola Company is the worlds largest beverage company, operating in over 200 countries with a product line that includes over 2,800 diverse items. The companys primary responsibility is to develop concentrates, beverage bases and syrups, which are sold to bottling companies that comprise the worlds largest beverage distribution system. In addition to product development, the Coca-Cola Company is responsible for product marketing. Their mission is to refresh the world, inspire moments of optimism, and to create value and make a difference. B. External Environment Socio-Cultural Factors Coca-Cola is recognized as the worlds most valuable brand. The company has been extremely successful in global marketing, and experts indicate that this success is largely based on product variation and adaptation (Lamb, Hair McDaniels, p. 114). Since the Coca-Cola Company extends to over 200 countries (with headquarters located in Atlanta, Georgia), they have an immense need to diversify their products and create a marketing plan that meets the socio-cultural interests of all their customers (vendors) and consumers (drinkers) around the world. The Coca-Cola trademark is recognized worldwide, no matter what language is printed on the bottle. However, the Coca-Cola Company must continue to tailor their marketing plan and product development to respect each consumers unique values, beliefs and cultures. An example of the Coca-Cola Company adapting to the external socio-cultural environment is in 2007, the Coca-Cola Company received a silver award at the Iberoamerican Advertising Festival for their Levate la Mano (Raise Your Hand) commercial that was aired in Latin America (2007 Annual Report: Marketing Highlights). Coca-Cola has also created a unique formulation for Sprite sold in Japan to meet the cultural preferences (p. 114). Social factors have been carefully considered in the companys marketing plan. The Coca-Cola Company has successfully developed products to please the 21st centurys health-conscious consumer with brands like Coca-Cola Zero (their best selling brand in over 25 years), sports drinks, and bottled water. Coca-Cola must continue to adapt to the external environmental threat of the healthy lifestyle movement through product development and marketing of healthy options available in the product line. Economic Factors  The United States is currently experiencing an economic recession. This period of negative growth includes higher unemployment, inflation, and cost of living expenses while consumers are experiencing lower disposable income and purchasing power (p. 641). The Coca-Cola Company contracts with numerous bottling companies around the world to create and distribute their beverages. The weakened economy could have a negative impact on any of the bottling companies, which would threaten the stability of the Coca-Cola Company due to the dependent relationship. The Coca-Cola Company must be profitable in order to sustain their investment in communities around the world. Furthermore, small communities depend on large businesses like the Coca-Cola Company to strengthen their own economy and help create social and environmental programs. The Coca-Cola Company has been very successful in helping other nations grow and become economically stable by investing millions of dollars back into the countries in which they are operating. Legal Factors Legal factors that could pose an environmental threat to the Coca-Cola Company include new legislation or regulation of food and beverage products. Activists are trying to push for more government involvement in product advertising and labeling. While many laws have already been passed in this regard, expanded or new laws could threaten the company by creating more overhead expenses and decreasing the profit margin. Technological Factors In todays marketplace, technology is a key player in helping a business stay profitable. Large businesses, like the Coca-Cola Company, must invest in technological research to find ways to become more efficient, and ultimately better competitors. The Coca-Cola Company should address external technological threats by investing directly in applied research to improve recording and monitoring of the sales, production and delivery process between the Coca-Cola Company and the bottling companies (p. 90). Competitive Factors Consumer tastes and needs are ever changing. With the new focus on health and nutrition and concerns with obesity, many consumers are changing their behaviors and products choices. Tea products, bottled water and energy drinks have become favored as opposed to the typical soft drink. This is an external threat to the Coca-Cola Company, as these changes in preferences have increased the number of competitors in the industry. The Coca-Cola Company is not only in competition with soft drink companies, like PepsiCo, Inc., but with other unassuming companies like Unilever, Kraft Foods, and Nestle. The Coca-Cola Company must continue aggressive efforts in responsible marketing, community investment and product development to hold the No. 1 place in sales of juice, ready-to-drink coffees, and teas. Surprisingly, Coca-Cola is ranked No. 3 in soft drinks, but their No. 1 ranking in juices, teas and coffee products indicate that they are in touch with their consumers interests, and that they understand that soft drinks cannot be their sole products in order to sustain business. C. Target Market The primary target market of the Coca-Cola Company is all consumers of all nations that have a thirst for a high-quality beverage from a reputable brand that cares about small communities and saving the environment. The Coca-Cola Company is well known for advertising to persons of all ages, genders, incomes, ethnicity and lifestyles. Nevertheless, more specifically, over the last decade the Coca-Cola Company has focused on a secondary target market, based on specific psycho-graphic characteristics, of consumers that are health conscious and interested in buying products to support their overall wellness. The Coca-Cola Company has reached this market through many product lines, and has customized their website to provide healthy resources and marketing of products that are considered smart choices. D. Product Coca-Cola is the number one selling sparkling beverage in North America. Coca-Cola is primarily a business product. As a business product, Coke is sold to grocery stores, convenience stores, gas stations, vending companies and restaurants. Coke could also be considered a convenience product as it is a relatively inexpensive item that merits little shopping (Lamb, Hair, McDaniel, pg. 308). It is can found almost everywhere, from schools, hotel, theme parks, airports, places of business and even rest stops on the highways. Coca-cola was packaged solely as soda fountain drink when it was introduced in 1886. In 1894, a candy storeowner started placing the drink in bottles and approached the owner of the Coca-Cola Company, Asa Griggs Candler, about bottling the drink. Candler declined. Then in 1899, Candler sold the rights to bottle the drink and over the next 10 years, 400 bottling plants would be born. The packaging of red and white Coca-Cola products is a world recognized.

The Impact of Culture on the Function of Sound in Masala Essay

The Impact of Culture on the Function of Sound in Masala "I declare the National, uhh, sorry...the Canadian National Museum of Philately officially open." - Minister for Multi-Culturalism, Masala Although there are moments in Masala when the surface dialogue is loaded with irony and satire, the background or ambient sound of the film is also used to examine the central theme of the film, the search for personal and cultural identity. This theme of cultural representation and personal identity is additionally expressed through director Srinivas Krishna’s technical approach toward the function of sound in the film. In fact, the different approaches to life and art that distinguish one culture from another are evident in a brief comparison of the employment of sound in the Japanese films Gonza The Spearman and Fireworks and the Canadian production Masala. The influence of Western technical conventions upon Krishna’s use of sound, both through the narrative and sub-narrative (or background sound), is quite distinctive. Masala presents the viewer with an approach toward sound that is clearly influenced by the culture the film was created in, using dialogue and backgr ound sound to enhance the central theme of the search for cultural and personal identity. As a result of different cultural approaches to the art of film making, Japanese directors such as Masahiro Shinoda (Gonza) and Takeshi Kitano (Fireworks) typically employ sound in an effort to enhance the storytelling aspect of cinema. This ‘storytelling’ approach to film supports the gratuitous use of sound effects to emphasise punches, kicks, and the extreme violence and excessive amounts of blood that have come to signify fight scenes in Japan cinema (particularly to ... ..., just as the real estate agent states "Your momma gave you a bum steer when you were 4 years old. We need to clean that up right now. If we don’t clean that up right now, you will be emotionally prohibited from creating wealth." In short, the use of sound in Masala is the culmination of the life of Krishna - the character - as a minority struggling for both personal and cultural identity in an increasingly satirical world, and Krishna - the director - using film, specifically dialogue and background noise, to ask questions about social and cultural status. Krishna’s eventual death - a reaction against stereotypes - and his grandmother’s acceptance and desire for the technology (among other facets) of a foreign culture - a shattering of stereotypes - reveal that director Krishna’s intent is to raise questions, to provide a solid background for deeper discussion. The Impact of Culture on the Function of Sound in Masala Essay The Impact of Culture on the Function of Sound in Masala "I declare the National, uhh, sorry...the Canadian National Museum of Philately officially open." - Minister for Multi-Culturalism, Masala Although there are moments in Masala when the surface dialogue is loaded with irony and satire, the background or ambient sound of the film is also used to examine the central theme of the film, the search for personal and cultural identity. This theme of cultural representation and personal identity is additionally expressed through director Srinivas Krishna’s technical approach toward the function of sound in the film. In fact, the different approaches to life and art that distinguish one culture from another are evident in a brief comparison of the employment of sound in the Japanese films Gonza The Spearman and Fireworks and the Canadian production Masala. The influence of Western technical conventions upon Krishna’s use of sound, both through the narrative and sub-narrative (or background sound), is quite distinctive. Masala presents the viewer with an approach toward sound that is clearly influenced by the culture the film was created in, using dialogue and backgr ound sound to enhance the central theme of the search for cultural and personal identity. As a result of different cultural approaches to the art of film making, Japanese directors such as Masahiro Shinoda (Gonza) and Takeshi Kitano (Fireworks) typically employ sound in an effort to enhance the storytelling aspect of cinema. This ‘storytelling’ approach to film supports the gratuitous use of sound effects to emphasise punches, kicks, and the extreme violence and excessive amounts of blood that have come to signify fight scenes in Japan cinema (particularly to ... ..., just as the real estate agent states "Your momma gave you a bum steer when you were 4 years old. We need to clean that up right now. If we don’t clean that up right now, you will be emotionally prohibited from creating wealth." In short, the use of sound in Masala is the culmination of the life of Krishna - the character - as a minority struggling for both personal and cultural identity in an increasingly satirical world, and Krishna - the director - using film, specifically dialogue and background noise, to ask questions about social and cultural status. Krishna’s eventual death - a reaction against stereotypes - and his grandmother’s acceptance and desire for the technology (among other facets) of a foreign culture - a shattering of stereotypes - reveal that director Krishna’s intent is to raise questions, to provide a solid background for deeper discussion.

Rough Draft on Drug Wars

Rough Draft Thousands upon thousands of lives have been taken due to the huge demand for drugs crossing from Mexico into the United States. The murder rate is extremely high, and has caused so much chaos between both countries because of this. Drug dealers in the United States contact drug dealers in Mexico, and vice versa, to cross the drugs between borders illegally. A high percentage of the time, either of the drug dealers from both sides will have a scape goat swim the border while carrying high amounts of drugs with them, or will attempt to cross it over smuggled in a vehicle.In Mexico, it is extremely corrupt and even the law enforcement is involved in the crossing of drugs illegally. This being done causes so much conflict between the two countries and it’s very scary for anyone living in the Mexico side of it, because wars will break out over the drugs almost daily and many people’s lives end up being taken because of this. Innocent people can be caught in betwe en a gun fight and their lives are in extreme danger, which is another reason why this drug war continues to go on.Many families try and flee their country to come into the United States so their families do not have to live in danger, but if being caught trying to cross over illegally, there are extremely harsh consequences. It is sad to know that millions of families have to live in fear and are too scared to leave their houses because they are scared of being caught in between one of the many gun fights that break out. There have been many cases where the Mexican Cartels will hire the elderly people of Mexico, and sometimes even children, to be their drug traffickers, putting them at extreme risk of being badly hurt, incarcerated, or even murdered.The Mexican Cartels believe that using children or the elderly will make it look less likely to be any type of illegal activity, but in the mix of it all, they have had many of them hurt or in extreme trouble with the law. Drug wars are not only held between the United States and Mexico; there are so many other places dealing with the same problem and that is why we need to raise awareness on the situation more than we already have. There have been many attempts in causing this fight to end, but it is too big of a fight for anyone to be able to get ahold of everyone causing this chaos.Any drug cartel around the world could careless who gets ahold of their drugs as long as they’re making money, and they are putting our younger generations at risk of becoming addicted to the drugs they are passing out to the world. Addiction is so high and the effects are incredibly bad. The effects of addiction could either be hereditary, or something one has seen throughout their lives causing them to do exactly as they had seen. There needs to be more educational programs out there to teach every one of the effects of addiction.The strong effects of drug use affect your body and can eventually begin to start to deteriorate over time. Your brain, muscles, respiratory system, liver, and every part of your body will begin to deteriorate after long periods of using illegal substances. Drug use especially affects your brain and the way you allow your thoughts to flow. Drug users are very irresponsible and can only go on with their lives if they are getting high. It is a horrible thing to get into and can cause the one with the disease to not even be able to enjoy life anymore without feeling the effects of the drug they are addicted to.The way I believe we should educate others on the causes and effects of addiction are to hold seminars and educate the younger children in grade school. People who are educated on the extreme effects of drug use might actually not get into them with proper education. Those who were never educated on the effects of drug use are most likely going to be the ones to fall victim of peer pressure and eventually get into drugs themselves. In other cases, it is hard to avoid and ca n be picked up as a child, seeing family members or other individuals doing drugs.We should educate everyone, as well as having no tolerance laws when it comes to hard drugs and giving longer sentences to those who are caught with the drugs, instead of letting them off on probation or parole. Many people would completely disagree with allowing marijuana to be legal, but if you think about it, it could eventually cause the drug violence to end around the world. Marijuana has the least effects out of all the drugs in the world, and although people take it to the extreme, it is honestly a harmless drug and should not be causing this many people to have their lives taken over it.

The Comparison of Sigmund Freud and B.F. Skinner

The Comparison of Sigmund Freud and B. F. Skinner One name that jumps out at the mention of psychology, or the study there of, is the name of Sigmund Freud. Sigmund Freud is also known as the â€Å"Father of Psychoanalysis. † Freud was also known for having the tendency to trace nearly all psychological problems back to sexual issues. Although only parts of his theory of psychosexual development are still accepted by mainstream psychologists, Freud's theory of the Oedipal Complex has become a cultural icon (Freud, Sigmund, 2012).Freud is known for developing the use of psychoanalysis. Psychoanalysis is based on the observation that people are often unaware of many of the things that determine their emotions and behavior. Psychoanalytic treatment demonstrates how the unconscious affects current relationships and patterns of behavior. It then helps track them back to past experiences, such as in childhood, and helps people to deal better with how past experiences then affect the ir current adult life (Freud, Sigmund, 2012).Freud’s contributions that often comes to mind while thinking of psychoanalysis include the therapy couch, the use of talk therapy, and his theories about the unconscious which include the role of repression, denial, sublimation, and projection. (â€Å"The Individual†) Freud also incorporated the use of dream analysis and the study of dreams. While working with his patients, they began to spontaneously tell their dreams. Freud became interested in dreams and the revelations that they could provide as doors to the inner psyche (â€Å"The Individual†).He soon systematically included interpretation of dreams in psychoanalysis, as well as hypnosis and free association of the dreams that had been revealed. Freud was one of the first psychologists to utilize hypnosis in therapy. Freud's interest in what lay beyond the conscious mind and in the practice of hypnotism and what led hysteria eventually led him to study with the famous neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot of the Salpetriere Hospital in Paris (â€Å"The Individual†). When Freud returned to Vienna, he began using hypnosis, massage, and pressure on the head to get patients to dredge up thoughts elated to their symptoms. Only later did he ask them to say whatever crossed their minds. This he called â€Å"free association,† and had already been described as the â€Å"talking cure† (â€Å"The Individual†). Just as Freud is known as the father of Psychoanalysis, B. F. Skinner is often referred to ask the â€Å"the father of operant conditioning. † B. F. Skinner is also known for major contributions to the field of psychology (About B. F. Skinner, Sept, 2012). Skinner was a prolific author, publishing nearly 200 articles and more than 20 books.Skinner was most known for his work in behavior psychology. Behavioral psychology is the psychological practice that focuses on learning new behaviors and how to modify our exist ing behavior and how that takes place (About B. F. Skinner, Sept, 2012). One of his major contributions was his theory of operant conditioning. Operant conditioning means roughly, the changing of behavior by the use of reinforcement, either positive or negative, and which these reinforcements are given after the desired response (About B. F. Skinner, Sept, 2012).Skinner identified three types of responses or operant that can follow behavior. While behaviorism is no longer a dominant school of thought, the work in operant conditioning remains today. Many different types of professionals utilize operant conditioning in society today. Mental health professionals often utilize operant techniques when working with clients (â€Å"The Individual†). Teachers frequently use reinforcement and punishment to shape behavior of their students in the classroom. Animal trainers even rely on these techniques to train dogs and other animals.In order to study Operant conditioning and it’ s affects on rats, Skinner developed a device known as the Skinner Box. This was used in lab experiments to judge the outcome of certain stimuli on rats and how their behavior would change from said stimuli (About B. F. Skinner, Sept, 2012). Skinner was an inventor of many things. He also worked on a product which he called, â€Å"The Baby Tender†. The â€Å"baby tender† was developed due to his wife’s concern that there was a need for a safer crib, where there wouldn’t be worries of the infant’s extremities getting caught in between the bars.The â€Å"baby tender† was an enclosed and heated crib with a plexiglass window. Unfortunately, the â€Å"baby tender† was confused with the Skinner box that was used in experiments in rats (About B. F. Skinner, Sept, 2012). Skinner did not do conditioning experiments on babies in the baby tender; it was developed as simply a safer crib for newborns. Both the ideas of Sigmund Freud and B. F. Skin ner have had major influences in the field of psychology and psychological practices.Both Freud and Skinner have influenced how psychology is used in therapy on patients; as well as practical uses that leave the clinical realm, and can be used in everyday life. Resources â€Å"B. F. Skinner Foundation – About B. F. Skinner. † B. F. Skinner Foundation – About B. F. Skinner. N. p. , n. d. Web. 20 Sept. 2012. . â€Å"Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy. † Freud, SigmundA []. N. p. , n. d. Web. 19 Sept. 2012. . â€Å"SECTION TWO The Individual: Therapy and Theory. † The Individual: Therapy and Theory. N. p. , n. d. Web. 25 Sept. 2012. . â€Å"Sigmund Freud. † Sigmund Freud. N. p. , n. d. Web. 20 Sept. 2012

Standard Lesson Plan Format for ESL Teachers

Standard Lesson Plan Format for ESL Teachers Teaching English, like teaching any subject, requires lesson plans. Many books and curricula provide advice on teaching English learning materials. However, most ESL teachers like to mix up their classes by providing their own  lesson plans and activities. Sometimes, teachers are required to create their own lesson plans when teaching ESL or EFL at international institutions that are scattered throughout the world. Develop your own lesson plans and activities by using a basic template. Standard Lesson Plan Format Generally speaking, a lesson plan has four specific parts. These can be repeated throughout the lesson, but its important to follow the outline: Warm-upPresentFocus on specificsUsage in a wider context Warm-Up   Use a warm-up to get the brain thinking in the right direction. The warm-up should include the target grammar/function for the lesson. Here are a few ideas: Ask small talk questions about the weekend for a lesson on the simple past.Discuss a hypothetical situation for a lesson focusing on conditionals.Challenge students to describe others in class when working towards building descriptive vocabulary.   Presentation The presentation focus on  the learning objectives of the lesson. This is the teacher-guided section of the lesson. You might: Explain grammar at the whiteboard.Show a short video to introduce a topic of discussion.Present new vocabulary, making sure to provide lots of  contexts.Present written work for a class discussion of structure. Controlled Practice Controlled practice allows for close observation to gauge whether the learning objectives are understood. Controlled practice activities include:​ Gap-fill exercises on tense conjugation.Complete-the-sentence exercises to encourage specifically-written formulas.Reading and listening comprehension activities.Language function practice on specific activities such as apologizing, negotiating, and thanking. Free Practice Free practice allows students to take control of their own language learning. These activities should encourage students to explore language with activities such as: Class debatesCreating role-plays and acting them out for othersGames focusing on communication skillsEssay writing During the free practice section, take note of common mistakes. Use feedback to help everyone, rather than focus on individual students.   This lesson plan format is popular for many reasons, including: Students have a number of chances to learn a concept through various means.Students have plenty of time to practice.Teachers can give detailed instruction, or students can deduce structures and learning points through practice.The standard lesson plan format provides structure.The lesson provides for variation over the course of 60 to 90 minutes.This lesson plan format moves from teacher-centered to student-centered learning. Variations on the Lesson Plan Format Theme In order to keep this standard lesson plan format from becoming boring, it is important to remember that there are a number of variations that can be applied to the various segments of the lesson plan format. Warm-up:  Students might arrive late, tired, stressed or otherwise distracted to class. In order to get their attention, its best to open with a warm-up activity. The warm-up can be as simple as telling a short story or asking students questions. The warm-up can also be a more thought-out activity, such as playing a song in the background or drawing an elaborate picture on the board. While its fine to start a lesson with a simple How are you, its much better to tie your warm-up into the theme of the lesson. Presentation: The presentation can take a variety of forms. Your presentation should be clear and straightforward to help students understand new grammar and forms. Here are a few suggestions on how to present new materials to the class: Reading selectionSoliciting students knowledge about a specific pointTeacher-centered explanationListening selectionShort videoStudent presentation The presentation should include the main meat of the lesson. For example, If you are working on phrasal verbs, make the presentation by reading something thats peppered with phrasal verbs. Controlled practice: This  section of the lesson provides students with direct feedback on their comprehension of the task at hand. Generally, a controlled practice involves some type of exercise.  Ã‚  Controlled practice should help the student focus on the main task and provide them with feedback - either from the teacher or the other students. Free practice: This integrates the focus structure, vocabulary, and functional words and phrases into students overall language use. Free practice exercises often encourage students to use the target language structures in: Small group discussionsWritten work (paragraphs and essays)Listening comprehension practiceGames The most important aspect of free practice is that students should be encouraged to integrate language learned into larger structures. This requires more of a stand-off approach to teaching. Its often useful to circulate around the room and take notes. Students should be allowed to make more mistakes during this part of the lesson. Utilizing Feedback Feedback allows students to check their understanding of the lessons topic and can be done quickly at the end of the class by asking students questions about the target structures. Another approach is to have students discuss the target structures in small groups, once again giving students the chance to improve understanding on their own. In general, it is important to use this lesson plan format to facilitate students English learning. The more opportunities for student-centered learning, the more students acquire language skills for themselves.

Life in the Mesopelagic Zone of the Ocean

Life in the Mesopelagic Zone of the Ocean The ocean is a vast habitat that is divided into several regions inclusive of the open water (pelagic zone), water near the ocean floor (demersal zone), and the ocean floor (benthic zone). The pelagic zone consists of the open ocean excluding areas near the coasts and sea floor. This zone is divided into five major layers marked by depth. The mesopelagic zone extends from 200 to 1,000 meters (660-3,300 feet) below the surface of the ocean. This area is known as the twilight zone, as it sits between the epipelagic zone, which receives the most light, and the bathypelagic zone, which receives no light. The light that reaches the mesopelagic zone is dim and does not allow for photosynthesis. However, distinctions between day and night can be made in the upper regions of this zone. Key Takeaways Known as the twilight zone, the mesopelagic zone extends from 660s include fish, shrimp, squid, snipe eels, jellyfish, and zooplankton. The mesopelagic zone experiences significant temperature changes which decrease with depth. This zone also plays an important role in the cycling of carbon and maintenance of the oceans food chain. Many of the mesopelagic animals help to control the numbers of upper ocean surface organisms and in turn serve as sources of food for other marine animals. Conditions in the Mesopelagic Zone The conditions in the mesopelagic zone are more harsh than those of the upper epipelagic zone. The low levels of light in this zone make in impossible for photosynthetic organisms to survive in this ocean region. Light, oxygen, and temperature decrease with depth, while salinity and pressure increase. Due to these conditions, little resources for food are available in the mesopelagic zone, requiring the animals that inhabit this area to migrate to the epipelagic zone to find food.   The red line in this illustration shows a typical seawater temperature profile. In the thermocline, temperature decreases rapidly from the mixed upper layer of the ocean to much colder deep water in the thermocline (mesopelagic zone). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration The mesopelagic zone also contains the thermocline layer. This is a transition layer where temperatures change rapidly from the base of the epipelagic zone through the mesopelagic zone. Water in the epipelagic zone is exposed to sunlight and rapid currents that distribute warm water throughout the zone. In the thermocline, the warmer water from the epipelagic zone mixes with the cooler water of the deeper mesopelagic zone. The thermocline depth varies yearly depending on global region and season. In tropical regions, thermocline depth is semi-permanent. In polar regions, it is shallow, and in temperate regions, it varies, usually becoming deeper in summer. Animals That Live in the Mesopelagic Zone Anglerfish (Melanocetus murrayi) Mid-Atlantic Ridge, North Atlantic Ocean. Anglerfish have sharp teeth and a luminescent bulb that is used to attract prey. David Shale/Nature Picture Library/Getty Images There are a number of marine animals that live in  the mesopelagic zone. These animals include fish, shrimp, squid, snipe eels, jellyfish, and zooplankton. Mesopelagic animals play an important role in the global carbon cycle and oceans food chain. These organisms migrate in massive number to the oceans surface at dusk in search of food. Doing so under the cover of dark helps them to avoid daytime predators. Many of the mesopelagic animals, like zooplankton, feed on phytoplankton found abundantly in the upper epipelagic zone. Other predators follow zooplankton in search of food creating a vast ocean food web. When dawn arises, the mesopelagic animals retreat back to the cover of the dark mesopelagic zone. In the process, atmospheric carbon obtained by consumed surface animals is transferred to the ocean depths. Additionally, mesopelagic marine bacteria also play an important role in global carbon cycling by capturing carbon dioxide and converting it to organic materials, such as pr oteins and carbohydrates, that can be used to support marine life. The animals in the mesopelagic zone have adaptations to life in this dimly lit zone. Many of the animals are capable of generating light by a process called bioluminescence. Among such animals are jellyfish-like creatures known as salps. They use bioluminescence for communication and to attract prey. Anglerfish are another example of bioluminescent deep-sea mesopelagic animals. These strange looking fish have sharp teeth and a glowing bulb of flesh that extends from their dorsal spine. This glowing light attracts prey directly into the mouth of the anglerfish. Other animal adaptations to life in the mesopelagic zone include silvery scales that reflect light to help fish blend in with their environment and  well developed large eyes that are directed upward. This helps fish and crustaceans to locate predators or prey. Sources DallOlmo, Giorgio, et al. Substantial Energy Input to the Mesopelagic Ecosystem from the Seasonal Mixed-Layer Pump. Nature Geoscience, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Nov. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5108409/.  New Research Reveals Sound of Deep-Water Animal Migration. Phys.org, 19 Feb. 2016, phys.org/news/2016-02-reveals-deep-water-animal-migration.html.  Pachiadaki, Maria G., et al. Major Role of Nitrite-Oxidizing Bacteria in Dark Ocean Carbon Fixation. Science, vol. 358, no. 6366, 2017, pp. 1046–1051., doi:10.1126/science.aan8260.  Pelagic Zone V. Nekton Assemblages (Crustacea, Squid, Sharks, and Bony Fishes). MBNMS, montereybay.noaa.gov/sitechar/pelagic5.html.  What Is a Thermocline?† NOAAs National Ocean Service, 27 July 2015, oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/thermocline.html.

Climate and Storms Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Climate and Storms - Research Paper Example A low pressure region is developed in the Atlantic and high pressure region in Peru in a normal year and therefore trade winds flow strongly from the east to west in the pacific and therefore warm waters are carried westward, in el Nio years the low pressure region is replaced by a relatively high pressure region in the pacific and this reduces the strength of trade winds and therefore there is an accumulation of warm water in Peru, in la Nina periods results after the el Nino period whereby there is an accumulation of cold water in the pacific. .. References: Columbia (2009) ENSO, retrieved on 29th November, from http://iri.columbia.edu/climate/ENSO/globalimpact/TC/Atlantic/index.html CCD (2009) la Nina report, retrieved on 29th November, from Http://www.ccd.ucar.edu/lanina/report/baethgen.html CPC (2009) List of El Nio and la Nina years, retrieved on 29th November, from http://www.cpc.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/ensostuff/ensoyears.shtml Physical geography (2009) ocean circulation differences in El Nio and la Nina years, retrieved on 29th November, from http://www.physicalgeography.net/fundamentals/7z.html Wunder Ground (2009) 1997 hurricanes, retrieved on 29th November, from http://www.wunderground.com/hurricane/at1997.asp Wunder Ground (2009) 1995 hurricanes, retrieved on 29th November, from

Assign_1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Assign_1 - Essay Example This development was followed by commercial motives that were aligned to take the internet to a commercial scale. Cerf played an instrumental role in making the internet popular and helped define it in its current state. TCP/IP forms a part of the internet protocol suite that is the widely used communication protocol over the internet. The complete protocol tends to provide end to end connectivity between devices communicating through the internet. The protocol also specifies how data is formatted, transmitted, received, addressed and routed between the sender and the destination. The internet protocol version four (IPv4) was the first most widely deployed internet protocol. Even now, the most widely deployed internet protocol is the IPv4. The IPv4 uses the 32 bit (4 byte) address scheme that limits the total address space to around 4.3 billion users (2^32). This limit was exceeded in February 2011 but this exhaustion had been envisioned for some time already. Development on the IPv6 protocol had been underway in the nineties. The IPv6 protocol was deployed in 2006 on a commercial basis and tends to use 128 bit addresses to produce 3.4 x 1038 addresses for users and devices. Given the expansion in i nternet services and internet dependent devices it was necessary to expand the total number of addresses to accommodate an ever-increasing user base. In the video Cerf goes ahead to say that he would like to see an incorporation of authenticity layers to augment the validity of online users. Currently it is common for internet users to use the internet without much need for authentication. Using this advantage users can surf the internet anonymously and there have been cases of abuse over the internet. Cerf also goes ahead to say that anonymous surfing may actually be necessary in order to protect the identities of people using the internet in states where censorship laws are repressive. This issue is open to debate but Cerf’s point of view is clear that he

Business Strategy and Planning Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Business Strategy and Planning - Case Study Example During the 1960s, distribution was decentralised. In 1973 the company became a plc. The oil crisis of the early 1970s forced it to improve efficiency. During the 1980s and early 1990s expansion into the north-east of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland made it 'national' in the scale of its operations. By the end of 1994 (Sainsbury's 125th year), the company had 355 stores in UK and an off-shore store in Calais. With the start of the new millennium Sainsbury's sold Homebase and Shaws Supermarkets to focus on the core UK business, comprising Sainsbury's Supermarkets, Sainsbury's Local, Sainsbury's online and Sainsbury's Bank. The acquisition of convenience store chains Bells Stores, Jacksons, JB Beaumont and SL Shaw increased its presence in the UK convenience sector. Today Sainsbury's serves 16 million customers each week in 455 supermarkets and 301 convenience stores across UK. The company employs 153,000 workers to deliver 'Great Food at Fair Prices'. Sainsbury's sells 6bn of British food every year, and in March 2006, reported a 5.3% rise in sales, its fifth quarter growth in a row. Sainsbury's was for decades the premier supermarket in the UK; it lost this position however in 1995 to Tesco, further slipping to No.3 in 2003 behind Walmart-owned ASDA. According to the latest TNS rankings released in June 2006, Sainsbury's remains the UK's third largest supermarket on 16.0% market share, while ASDA remains second largest at 16.4% and Tesco has increased its share to 31.1% (The information in the above paragraphs were collected, paraphrased, collated and abridged from the four web sites of: (1) http://www.sainsburys.co.uk/home/htm, (2) www.j-sainsbury.co.uk/ (3) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sainsbury and (4) http://www.fairinvestment.co/uk/default.aspx, all retrieved August 8, 2006). About TESCO. Tesco is the largest British supermarket chain and has significant operations in other countries. Originally specializing in food they have moved into areas such as clothes, consumer electronics and cars. By 2003 it had over 2000 stores, including a large number of convenience stores in the UK. Outside of the United Kingdom they also operate in the Republic of Ireland, Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan, and Malaysia. Tesco was founded by Jack Cohen, who was selling groceries in the markets of the London East End from 1919. The first Tesco store was opened in 1929 in Edgware, London. The firm was floated on the stock exchange in 1947. The first Tesco self-service store opened in 1948 in St Albans and was still trading as of 2002. The first Tesco supermarket was opened in 1956 in Maldon, Essex. Its first "superstore" was opened in 1968 in Crawley, West Sussex. It began selling petrol in 1974 and its annual turnover reached 1000 million pounds in 1979. It introduced a loyalty card in 1995 and later an Internet shopping service. During the 1990s it expanded into Eastern Europe, Ireland and East Asia. In July 2001 it became involved in internet grocery retailing in the USA when it obtained a 35% stake in GroceryWorks. Tesco has expanded also by taking over other chains, including: Victor Value, England, 1968

An Analysis Of A Thousand Splendid Suns English Literature Essay

An Analysis Of A Thousand Splendid Suns English Literature Essay At the time, Mariam did not understand. She did not know what the word harami- bastard meant. Nor was she old enough to appreciate the injustice, to see that it is the creators of the harami who are culpable, not the harami, whos only sin is being born. Mariam did surmise, by the way Nana said the word, that it was an ugly, loathsome thing to be a harami, like an insect, like the scurrying cockroaches Nana was always cursing and sweeping out of the kolba. (P.) As I read this passage, it elucidated the faulty mother-daughter relationship held between Nana and Mariam. While I was reading this passage, I predicted that regardless of what happens, this relationship will end up in betrayal and fear. What mother or guardian would call her child a bastard, something completely out of their control and decision? Mariam neither chose nor decided that she would be an illegitimate baby or an accident. Nanas insecurity is evident as she tries to place the overbearing guilt and anger she has in her own daughter. Although Nana may love Mariam, her failure to communicate a caring facet of her personality will ultimately, in my opinion, cause the failure of a loving relationship. Youre afraid, Nana, she might have said. Youre afraid that I might find the happiness you never had. And you dont want me to be happy. You dont want a good life for me. Youre the one with the wretched heart. Pg. 27 (C.) Throughout our lives, we often fuel our hatred toward our parents or guardians because of ignorance, disappointment, or failed expectations. In our adolescence, we fail to see how much parents sacrifice for us. We say things we regret out of frustration and anger. Much like Mariam, I have also doubted my parents intentions, and how miserable they were making my life. As I matured I began to realize many things lost to my parents by making the choice to have children: freedom, commitment to jobs, time. It would seem absurd to have children, but the chance that they may give the unrivaled unconditional love found nowhere else is a worthy cause. When Mariam left Nanas side, it was not only a physical abandonment but also an emotional one. Nana may have been cold and callous, but the love and care she offered Mariam were unrivaled. You go on and cry, Mariam jo. Go on. There is no shame in it. But remember, my girl, what the Koran says, Blessed is He in Whose hand is the kingdom, and He Who has power over all things, Who created death and life that He may try you. The Koran speaks the truth, my girl. Behind every trial and every sorrow that He makes us shoulder, God has a reason. But Mariam could not hear comfort in Gods words. Not that day. Not then. All she could hear was Nana saying, Ill die if you go. Ill just die. All she could do was cry and cry and let her tears fall on the spotted, paper-thin skin of MullaFaiuzullahs hands. Pg. 36 (E.) Mariam undergoes an extreme change in this passage. This initial conflict acts as a foundation for a series of complications that ensue, progressively destroying the little security Mariam has after this tragic experience. Through each emotional trauma Mariam encounters, she grows stronger. Her persona depicts a strong, independent individual, evident from the beginning of the novel where she often questions authority and dreams of a bright future with war, poverty, and death hovering in silence in the area around her. Mariam had so openly walked into Jalils empty gifts with high hopes, leaving behind the only love she would ever receive in this world. Consequently, as reality set in, Mariams hope is crushed: she is unwanted, alone, and guilt-ridden.Hosseini seems to reflect upon the endless cycle of hope and crushed dreams, similar to that of real Afghan women oppressed by sexist regulations. Mariam thought of Jalil, of the empathetic, jovial way in which hed pushed his jewelry at her, the overpowering cheerfulness that left room for no response but meek gratitude. Nana had been right about Jalils gifts. They had been halfhearted tokens of penance; insincere, corrupt gestures meant more for his own appeasement than hers. This shawl, Mariam saw, was a true gift. Pg. 68 (Q.) Gifts are always meaningful to me whether it is for self-appeasement or gratitude. I do not comprehend why Mariam would think any less of Jalils gift than Rasheeds. While Jalil was bounded by guilt, Rasheed too was bounded by marriage and love. Both gifts through Mariams perspective would be insincere. Every gift has a reason, why would Jalils be an exception. The same way Jalil tried to buy Mariams forgiveness through these gifts, Rasheed was trying to buy her love. Although Rasheeds deed seems nobler, in my perspective they are relatively the same. Mariam seems to be in denial about Jalils character and role as a father. As portrayed in the passage, she tries to exact her reasons to hate him by finding fault in his gifts and other things. Mariam lay on the couch, hands tucked between her knees, watched the whirlpool of snow twisting and spinning outside the window. She remembered Nana saying once that each snowflake was a sigh heaved by an aggrieved woman somewhere in the world. That all the sighs drifted up the sky, gathered into clouds, then broke into tiny pieces that fell silently on the people below. As a reminder of how women life us suffer, shed say. How quietly we endure all that falls upon us. Pg. 82 (P.) Throughout the book, Nanas stringent words seem emphatic as the novels universal theme. Mariams life begins to be the perfect definition of endurance, and the reader eventually sees how she grows to be the spitting image of Nana. In the passage, Mariam immediately recollects experiences with Nana following her death. The way Hosseini chose to particularly note female struggles and prejudice foreshadows the imminent future of abuse Mariam soon ensues. Another clue of foreshadowing is seen in the repercussions of Nanas words, especially endurance, which impacts Mariam greatly as she often associates Nana with it. It was Gods fault, for taunting her as He had. For not granting her what He had granted so many other women. For dangling before her, tantalizingly, what He knew would have her thegreatest happiness, then pulling it away. Pg. 84 (E.) Mariam, in her state of weakness, seems to need some reassurance that there is reason or fault behind her miscarriage. She feels the unbarring need to justify why her happiness had so easily been stripped away. Accusations were haranguing in her head, until eventually she reached the conclusion that Allah had been responsible. The way Hosseini makes Mariam question her own religion truly illustrates the extent of the scenario, where she would go as far as to question her own faith. This passage also portrays the desperate nature of Mariam. She believes that salvation can be found in the baby that had slipped away; Rasheed would be satisfied and she would be granted the privilege of being a mother. Her tower of security crumbles with this as her security and confidence idles away along with the baby. I know youre still young, but I want you to understand and learn this now, he said. Marriage can wait, education cannot. Youre a very, very bright girl. Truly, you are. You can be anything you want, Laila. I know this about you. And I also know that when this war is over, Afghanistan is going to need you as much as its men, maybe even more. Because a society has no chance of success if its women are uneducated, Laila. No chance. Pg. 103 (R.) Hosseini provides excellent insight of a postmodern Afghan family with this passage. Although Laila is an adolescent at the time, her fathers beliefs prove to influence the many decisions throughout her life. As the plot progresses we see Laila mature into a strong, persevered woman with the bulwark of her fathers aspirations. Hosseini brilliantly initiates this flashback to contrast the solidity of sexist attitudes portrayed by Mariams life, to provide as a beacon of hope that one day soon education will be the deciding factor of power rather than gender. A child of the revolution and the Soviet invasion, this passage foreshadows a bright future by characterizing Laila through this dialogue. Hosseini furthers his purpose beyond the plot to inspire readers to purse a future of education. Even in modern society, sexism is still an overbearing factor that continues to assault the security of women everywhere. Despite the antediluvian setting in which A Thousand Splendid Suns takes place, Hosseini exemplifies how hope still exists not only from women amidst female oppression. Sometimes Laila wondered why Mammy had even bothered having her. People, she believed now, shouldnt be allowed to have new children if theyd already given away all their love to their old ones. It wasnt fair. A fit of anger claimed her. Laila went to her room, collapsed on her bed. When the worst of it all had passed, she went across the hallway to Mammys door and knocked. When she was younger, Laila used to sit for hours outside this door. She would tap on it and whisper Mammys name over and over, like a magic chant meant to break a spell: Mammy, Mammy, Mammy, MammyBut Mammy never opened the door. She didnt open it now. Laila turned the knob and walked in. Pg. 107 (E.) This passage displays a critical point in the novel. Much like Mariam, Lailas self-worth had constantly been depreciated by Mammy, who failed to live up to the motherly figure that she was to her sons. Although Laila was too young to understand, Mammy was disillusioned by the past, lingering in memories rather than reality. The more Mammy continues to grieve about her two sons, the further away she pushes Laila. The emotional trauma Laila underwent is evident from the passage. As Mammy becomes less and less of a motherly figure, Laila too becomes less and less of a daughterly figure. I felt that throughout Lailas adolescent, she had tried to earn the respect and love of her mother. When Mammy failed to provide the care and love to quench Lailas desire for attention, Laila simply gave up. With this, Laila and Babis relationship flourished in ways Mammy and Lailas could not. In Tariqs grimace, Laila learned that boys differed from girls in this regard. They didnt make a show of friendship. They felt no urge, no need, for this sort of talk. Laila imagined it had been this way for her brothers too. Boys, Laila came to see, treated friendship the way they treated the sun: its existence undisputed; its radiance best enjoyed, not beheld directly. Pg. 119 (C.) More than once have I been in the situation Laila places Tariq in. The awkward silence between two close friends that are not exactly in a legitimate relationship. Although Lailas realization is stereotypical and a double standard, it does shed some truth for certain circumstances. I do not feel the need to express or display the obvious. I find that some girls feel insecure about friendships and constantly need clarification on the status of the relationship while boys just categorize most simply as friends. Rather than get complicated and over dramatic, boys simply enjoy the friendship as it is without labeling and categorizing. I personally do not enjoy public displays of affection mostly because I find that the constant need to satiate a girls desire grows to be a near impossible task. Women have always had it hard in this country, Laila, but theyre probably more free now, under the communists, and have more rights than theyve ever had before, Babi said, always lowering his voice, aware of how intolerant Mammy was of even remotely positive talk of the communists. But its true, Babi said, its a good time to be a woman in Afghanistan. And you can take advantage of that, Laila. Of course, womens freedom- here, he shook his head ruefully-is also one of the reasons people out there took up arms in the first placeGod forbid that should happen!Babi liked to say sarcastically. Then he would sigh, and say, Laila, my love, the only enemy an Afghan cannot defeat is himself. Pg. 121 (C.) This passage poses a very controversial issue plaguing the world today, religious practice versus feminist struggles. As portrayed in the story, religion has often sparked many complications when poised against more new world thinkers. Babi exemplifies revolutionist ideas, the same ideas being fought over in many parts of the world. Religion has enormous influence upon societies even in the present. Sexism still pursues the daily lives of many women even in modernized societies like America. Variegated by perspective, remnants of sexism may still exist in fundamental readings such as the Bible. Sexism has grown to seem inescapable because of ignorance that has stemmed from years and years of male superiority. Well take care of her, Lailajan, one of the women said with an air of self-importance. Laila had been to funerals before where she had seen women like this, women who relished all things that had to do with death, official consolers who let no one trespass on their self-appointed dutiesSome days, Mammy said in a hoarse voice, I listen to that clock ticking in the hallway. Then I think of all the ticks, all the minutes, all the hours and days and weeks and months and years waiting for me. All of it without them. And I cant breathe then, like someones stepping on my heart, Laila. I get so weak. So weak I just want to collapse somewhere.' Pg. 124-129 (Q.) The way in which Hosseini illustrates this funeral perfectly describes the supercilious nature of people. I fail to understand why these women feel so inclined to only take part of Mammys life when they are invited to do so. Furthermore, why is it that Mammy continues to neglect Laila even in her time of weakness? As Hosseini described it, these women were official consolers who let no one trespass on their self-appointed duty. Laila had tried to be there during Mammys moments of weakness, only to be pushed further and further away from any chances of a legitimate relationship. While Mammy mourns for her sons, she is completely unaware that Laila is her child. She laments how horrid life will be without taking into account of her only remaining child. What truly bewilders me is why Mammy insists to be so unaware of her own childs palpable state of depression. Mammy was soon asleep, leaving Laila with dueling emotions: reassured that Mammy meant to live on, stung that she was not the reason. She would never leave her mark on Mammys heart the way her brothers had, because Mammys heart was like a pallid beach where Lailas footprints would forever wash away beneath the waves of sorrow that swelled and crashed, swelled and crashed. Pg. 130 (CL.) Hosseini further elaborates upon the complications developing between Mammy and Laila. The figurative language justly describes the anguish subjected to Laila. Despite Lailas efforts to leave an impression on Mammy, Mammy remains lost in the memories of her deceased sons. Laila had been devoid of a motherly figure throughout her childhood, and still so even after the sole attention of Mammy had passed on. The dueling emotions Laila feels signifies one of the first internal conflicts Laila undergoes. This internal conflict ultimately clarifies the abandonment that Mammy had so long initiated. Faced with the harsh reality, this passage elucidates Mammys insecurities. When stripped of her very pride and glory, Mammy returns to the safety of her memories, longing for the impossibility of seeing her sons again. With the passing of time, she would slowly tire of this exercise. She would find it increasingly exhausting to conjure up, to dust off, to resuscitate once again what was long dead. There would come a day, in fact, years later, when Laila would no longer bewail his loss. Or not as relentlessly; not nearly. There would come a day when the details of his face would begin to slip form memorys grip, when overhearing a mother on the street call after he child by Tariqs name would no longer cut her adrift. She would not miss him as she did now, when the ache of his absence was her unremitting companion- like the phantom pain of an amputee. Pg. 168 (E.) Hosseini uses a flash-forward technique to drastically contrast how much Laila truly misses Tariq. Tariqs departure alters Lailas progressive thoughts about the future and replaces them with dismal illusions. This event symbolically marks when the repercussions of war finally reach Laila, as her life is slowly but surely destroyed by violence and terror. Throughout the first half of the novel, Tariq had always acted as hope and the very reason why Laila bothered waking up every morning. As Tariq and Laila split paths, the hopes and aspirations slowly disipate into a struggle for survival. She realizes now that forgetting Tariq is inevitable and prolonging will leave her with regrets, but cannot bring her to do so. Mm. He smiled sadly.I cant believe Im leaving Kabul. I went to school here, got my first job here, became a father in this town. Its strange to think that Ill be sleeping beneath another citys skies soon. Its strange for me too. All day, this poem has been bouncing around in my head. Saib-e-Tabrizi wrote it back in the seventeenth century, I think. I used to know the whole poem, but all I can remember now is two lines: One could not count the moons that shimmer on her roofs, Or the thousand splendid suns that hide behind her walls.' Pg. 172 (C.) As Babi departs, he cannot help but mention the most prominent and significant lines in this novel. Hosseini brilliantly initiates these lines from the poem Kabul as a resolution for Lailas childhood, a subplot in the novel. The two lines flawlessly capture the essence of nostalgia, a feeling most readers are familiar with. While reading this, I remembered departing from Taiwan with the same feeling of nostalgia illustrated in this passage. At first view, Taiwan was just a mundane rural country infested with people; however, the memories I shared with my family here cannot be denoted by words. An authors job is to successfully build a relationship with the reader as Hosseini successfully does. Hosseinis choice in using figurative language allows for more imagination and understanding rather than a blatant perception of nostalgia. Laila wasnt listening anymore. She was remembering the day the man from Panjshir had come to deliver the news of Ahmads and Noors deaths. She remembered Babi, white-faced, slumping on the couch, and Mammy, her hand flying to her mouth when she heard. Laili had watched Mammy come undone that day and it had scared her, but she hadnt felt any true sorrow. She hadnt understood the awfulness of her mothers loss. Now another stranger bringing news of another death. Now she was the one sitting on the chair. Was this her penalty, then, her punishment for being aloof to her own mothers suffering? Pg. 188 (E.) Laila had already felt the repercussions of war before when Tariq had left her. Now, however, as the war scene shifts towards Kabul, she feels the overwhelming influence war has upon her and those close to her. The news of Tariqs death stabbed at Lailas old wounds. Hosseini draws a clear line between death and abandonment with this passage. This passage clearly defines the relationship in which Tariq and Laila had shared, one that was far greater than any other relationship. Despite how the war had killed all of her family members, Lailas security, that had remained untouched for so long, had finally broken. It is evident that Tariq was more than a mere friend or brother. Tariq was an unrivaled lover that Laila knew could never be replaced. A love that had blossomed as children, Lailas childhood had finally collapsed upon her. Why have you pinned your little heart to an old, ugly hag like me? Mariam would murmur into Azizas hair. Huh? I am nobody, dont you see? A dehati. What have I got to give you? But Aziza only muttered contentedly and dug her face in deeper. And when she did that, Mariam swooned. Her eyes watered. Her heart took flight. And she marveled at how, after all these years of rattling loose, she had found in this little creature the first true connection in her life of false, failed connections. Pg. 226 (CL.) Hosseinis use of dialogue in this passage truly makes for a heartaching moment in the novel. Never before has Mariam understood what unconditional love felt like. Mariam matured expecting the worse in people after having been surrounded by lies and deceit throughout her adolescence. Those she cared about were either guilt ridden or stripped away by the war. She was insecure, callous, and alone. When Aziza is introduced, Mariam finally realizes she is not alone, or rather; she does not have to be alone anymore. She tears down her walls that had so long prevented her from forming any true heartwarming relationships. Most of all, however, she learns how to forgive and forget, no longer grieving over what had happened by rather hoping for what has yet to happen. This passage clarifies very well the personality and persona of Mariam. Seasons had come and gone; presidents in Kabul had been inaugurated and murdered; an empire had been defeated; old wars had ended and new ones had broken out. But Mariam hardly noticed, hardly cared. She had passed these years in a distant corner of her mind. A dry, barren field, out beyond wish and lament, beyond dream and disillusionment. There, the future did not matter. And the past held only this wisdom: that love was a damaging mistake, and its accomplice, hope, a treacherous illusion. And whenever those twin poisonous flowers began to sprout in the parched land of that field, Mariam uprooted them. She uprooted them and ditched them before they too hold. Pg. 229 (R.) Hosseini augments the distinction between marriage and true love. Mariam, although forced into marriage, had remained optimistic, hopeful, that perhaps what had been simply a coincidence would blossom into contentment and what she believes to be true love. As disappointment after disappointment occur, this dream shatters and dissolves into torment. A prospect of human nature that Hosseini seems to instill into the reader is how emotional pain cannot be simply mitigated or eradicated. Moreover, such pain, if continually nurtured, will embody a permanent scar in ones beliefs, aspirations, and ultimately personality as witnessed in Mariam. The connotation of the figurative language used to describe Mariams feeling reflect the anguish and insecurity subjected to her, for example, She had passed these years in a distant corner of her mind. A dry, barren field, out beyond wish and lament, beyond dream and disillusionment. Hosseini elegantly words this passage to truly allow the reader to relate to the callous state Mariam has slipped into as a result of an arranged marriage. Love and hope, once regarded greatly by her, are simply whisked away. The security she once had with her loved ones had devolved into a void of self-pity. It wasnt the fear of bleeding to death that made her drop the spoke, or even the idea that the act was damnable- which she suspected it was. Laila dropped the spoke because she could not accept what the Mujahideen readily had: that sometimes in war innocent life had to be taken. Her war was against Rasheed. The baby was blameless. And there had been enough killing already. Laila had seen enough killing of innocents caught in the crossfire of enemies. Pg. 253 (E.) Hosseini captures the true essence of developing Lailas character as the protagonist of the novel. When faced with the realities of war invading every aspect of her life, Laila is lost, confused, and much like Mariam, alone. She attempts to cope with all the problems that shortly ensue after losing her beloved parents, but only manages to avoid them. Thoughts, opinions, and ideas were all things Laila could escape with perseverance and determination, however, reality soon catches up with a tangible breathing being. The moment Laila makes the distinction between politics and her personal life is when she fully matures into an adult. Shortly after this realization, Laila makes a connection with the baby- much like herself, he was the result of being caught in the crossfire of enemies, where in this instance are her and Rasheed. Laila begins understanding the true value of human life, and how easily it is taken away. Clearly against the mindless violence, Laila chooses not to stoop down to the Mujahideens method of murder. Death from starvation suddenly became a distinct possibility. Some chose not to wait for it. Mariam heard of a neighborhood widow who had ground some dried bread, laced it with rat poison, and fed it to all seven of her children. She had saved the biggest portion of herself. Pg. 272 (C.) Poverty and world hunger are two critical issues plaguing many parts of the world. Hosseini distinctly provides an example of how torturous life is in indigenous third world countries, where death is a plausible option of starving. Things we take for granted such as food, shelter, and family are scarce and near extinct in war-torn places such as Afghanistan. Hosseini instills a powerful image into the reader by bringing children into the equation rather than adults. Children that have been deprived of education, friendship, and other fundamental things such as fun are not given the opportunity to live life to the fullest extent. The most compelling aspect of this, however, is how the widow had chosen to take the lives of seven children, all of which were too young to make an adequate decision, in addition to her. It isnt your fault. Do you hear me? Not you. Its those savages, those wahshis, who are to blame. They bring shame on me as a Pashtun. Theye disgraced the name of my people. And youre not alone, hamshira. We get mothers like you all the timeall the timemothers who come here that cant feed their children because the Taliban wont let them go out and make a living. So you dont blame youself. No one here blames you. I understand. He leaned forward. Hamshira I understand.' Pg. 283 (R.) Zaman, the orphanage director, is one of the few characters that understands and relates to Laila. Often times people fall into a deep state of disillusionment when reality has grown too real, per se. As reality hits a breaking point where fault is found in near everything and no one takes blame, people begin blaming themselves. Bystanders that are powerless to make a change find fault in themselves for not having enough money, enough control, or enough courage. It is an innate behavior to always want to help whether you do or do not have the ability to. Finding someone who understands this, however, is rare in war torn countries like Kabul. The world is not fair; power does not directly correlate with hard work and perseverance. People will blame others for events that are completely out of their control, while others will take the effort to actually take part in the resolution. Mariam wished for so much in those final moments. Yet as she closed her eyes, it was not regret any longer but a sensation of abundant peace that washed over her. She thought of her entry into this world, the harami child of a lowly villager, an unintended thing, a pitiable, regrettable accident. A weed. And yet she was leaving the world as a woman who had loved and been loved back. She was leaving it as a friend, a companion, a guardian. A mother. A person of consequence at last. No. It was not so bad, Mariam thought, that she should die this way. Not so bad. This was a legitimate end to a life of illegitimate beginnings. Pg. 329 (R.) Mariam had throughout her life expected the worst in people and herself. Faith, hope, and trust had all withered along with each new chapter of her life. At these last moments of her life, Mariam finally begins to see the positive aspects of her life rather than the negative. People in general always bury themselves in a pit of self-pity when cornered, confused, and in their moment of weakness. They try to run away from realitys responsibilities through lies, rejection, and solitude. However, eventually, reality catches up to them and they realize the only person to blame is themselves for not taking a chance, the opportunity to love and trust again. Mariam took a leap of faith by extending her hands as a gesture of friendship toward Laila. Hosseini seems to have intended this passage to leave an everlasting mark on the reader: despite all of the things he or she was not able to complete, all the aspirations and motives he or she did try to achieve are what truly defines him or her as a person. Im sorry, Laila says, marveling at how every Afghan story is marked by death and loss and unimaginable grief. And yet, she sees, people find a way to survive, to go on. Laila thinks of her own life and all that has happened to her, and she is astonished that she too has survived, that she is alive and sitting in this taxi listening to this mans story. Pg. 350 (E.) Laila beings to realize how narrow minded she had been thinking ever since the ripples of war had destroyed the very essence of Kabul. She sees how the repercussions of war have simply augmented the problems of everyone including her. No longer is she in her own circle of torment when she realizes almost everyone is struggling for survival, some worse off than her. The belief that there are still people alive and trying to reconstruct their lives gives Laila hope that is not directly stated by Hosseini. This taxi driver, a seemingly insignificant character, introduces Laila to hope for Kabul and most of all herself. Before Laila had only taken into account her own life rather than Kabul in general. Laila watches Mariam glue strands of yarn onto her dolls head. In a few years, this little girl will be a woman who will make small demands on life, who will never burden others, who will never let on that she too has had sorrows, disappointments, dreams that have been ridiculed. A woman who will be like a rock in a riverbed, enduring without complaint, her grace not sullied but shaped by the turbulence that washes over her. Already Laila sees something behind this young girls eyes, something deep in her core, that neither Rasheed nor the Taliban will be able to break. Something as hard and unyielding as a block of limestone. Something that, in the end, will be her undoing and Lailas salvation. Pg. 355 (E.) This scene follows shortly after the death of Mariam as Laila visits Mariams old home. Laila has a flashback and sees Mariam mature progressively, however, rather than seeing the negative, she notes all the positive aspects of her life. This passage is critical in the story as it is one of the few scenes marked by salvation and generosity; one where a character is defined by her personality and traits rather than her tragedies and losses. This passage acts as Lailas show of gratitude without a direct statement. The most prominent quality Laila seems to emphasize the most is Mariams unfaltering loyalty to those she loves and cares about. Hosseinis use of figurative language and imagery makes this passage graceful and justified as a reminiscent of Mariam and her sacrifice. The interpretations of this passage are endless, as the figurative language invokes a more abstract definition of Mariam rather than direct characterization. I hope you do not think that I am trying to buy your forgiveness. I hope you will credit me with knowing that your forgiveness is not for sale. It never was. I am merely giving you, if belatedly, what was rightfully yours all along. I was not a dutiful father to you in life. Perhaps in death I can be.Now all