Saturday, August 31, 2019

Amy Tan’s “Mother Tongue” and Gloria Anzuldua’s “How To Tame A Wild Tongue” Essay

â€Å"Identity is the essential core of who we are as individuals, the conscious experience of the self inside† – Kaufman (AnzuldÏ a 62). Coming to America and speaking more than one language, I often face similar situations as Gloria AnzaldÏ a and Amy Tan. Going to high school where personal image is a big part of a student’s life is very nerve racking. American Values are often forced upon students and a certain way of life is expected of them. Many times, in America, people look down on people who do not accept the American Way of Life. The struggle of â€Å"fitting in† and accepting the cultural background is a major point in both essays, _Mother Tongue_ by Amy Tan and _How to Tame a Wild Tongue_ by Gloria AnzaldÏ a, which the authors argue similarly about. Both essays can be related to my life as I experience them in my life at home and at school. High school also has an unparalleled reputation of students trying to â€Å"fit in† with their peers and peer-pressure causing people to accept values different to their own, which is similar to AnzaldÏ a’s case. In AnzaldÏ a’s essay, she reflects on the situation that many people face in a contact zone of many different cultures. She begins by explaining how she felt unaccepted by all groups, Americans, Mexicans, and other Spanish speakers. Many people are also forced accept certain cultures over the other. AnzaldÏ a â€Å"was accused by various Latinos and Latinas† of a being a â€Å"‘Pocho, cultural traitor'†. AnzaldÏ a was rejected by many Latinos and did not mix well with Americans either. Gaining respect of peers is also very hard in high school. Living with parent that speaks â€Å"broken English† is similar in all households and presents similar hardships. In _Mother Tongue_, Amy Tan mainly focuses on the hardships of adapting to American culture. Tan also avoids to being in situations where her mother tries to express herself. Amy is â€Å"red-faced and quit† while her mother â€Å"was shouting at [the stockbroker’s] boss in her impeccable English† (Tan 317). Amy is often embarrassed of her mother’s â€Å"broken† English and avoids speaking up in those situations. In both essays, the authors explain the consequences of foreign language  speakers face in an American predominant society. AnzaldÏ a is usually afraid to express herself truly because many times the outcomes discourage her to do so. AnzaldÏ a recalls â€Å"being caught speaking Spanish at recess [which] was good for three licks on the knuckles with a sharp ruler† and â€Å"being sent to the corner of the classroom† for â€Å"trying to tell [the teacher] how to pronounce [her] name†. The outcome of trying to express herself in her true nature often got her punished severely. Tan feels less fortunate to have been in an immigrant family because many of her opportunities were taken away because of that. While growing up, Tan believed that because her â€Å"mother’s English †¦had an effect on limiting [her] possibilities in life† (Tan 318). Amy Tan thought that while living in fear of not â€Å"fitting in†, the opportunities were taken away from her. The stunted language skill development, in immigrant families, could affect their success in school and other achievement tests (Tan 318). The essays differ from each other because in Amy Tan actually accepts parts of American culture, while AnzaldÏ a resists including the American lifestyle into her own completely. AnzaldÏ a is bitter about the fact that she is forced to accept the American culture. She claims that â€Å"required†¦two speech classes†¦to get rid of [the] accent [were] a violation of the First Amendment† (AnzaldÏ a 54). But Amy Tan struggles to incorporate the American lifestyle at many times. Tan fights the stereotype â€Å"Chinese students go into engineering† and struggles to excel in English rather than engineering (Tan 319). In conclusion, in America, foreign language speakers often feel disadvantageous to Americans that have more resources to exploit. But both authors still agree that preserving their heritage is important and should it should not be lost while trying to â€Å"fit in†. While speaking many languages and going to high school in America, the essays are closely related to my own life. I realized that gaining some new culture and losing some of the old culture is best to adapt to the new a country and different people. Balancing the cultures and languages forms our identity.

Friday, August 30, 2019

PEST analysis †Public Bank Essay

Procedure (a) The organisation’s annual report is evaluated (b) Market research and Internet survey has been done to gather more information about the latest news. (c) Interviews were held with suppliers, dealers, stuffs, customers and the publics. Findings About Public Bank Public Bank commenced business on 6 August 1966 and was listed on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange (KLSE) on 6 April 1967. Public Bank remains a leading integrated financial conglomerate in Malaysia. With trust and strong support from the public and commitment from its management and staff, the Public Bank Group remains focused on providing all aspects of banking and financing services which include commercial banking, hire purchase, merchant banking, leasing and factoring, stock broking, sale of trust units and management of unit trusts, and related financial services such as nominees and trustee services, and investment holding. To further strengthen the Group’s performance, Public Bank has begun to further rationalise its Group operations after its successful acquisition and integration of the former Hock Hua Bank in 2001. This rationalisation involves the privatisation of Public Finance to achieve economies of scale, improve cost efficiency and to enhance the market presence of the Group. This rationalisation also helps the Group to achieve its objective of being a preferred one-stop financial service provider in Malaysia. The management and staff of the Public Bank Group are fully committed to  achieve its corporate vision of being ranked among the top 100 banks in the world. In 2002, Public Bank’s world ranking by The Banker improved to the 173rd position, up from 216th in the preceding year. A high standard of customer service is the hallmark of the Public Bank Group that puts it ahead of its competitors. The bank-wide ISO 9001:2000 certification for the Provision of Customer Service at the Front Office in 2001 was a reaffirmation to ensure that courtesy, efficiency, accuracy, empathy, and integrity of customer service are upheld at all times throughout the Bank. Meeting quantitative service standards such as the 2-minute Standard Waiting Time and the 1-minute Standard Processing Time for core transactions for greater customer convenience has become the norm for the Group. To further enhance its customer service standards, ISO 9001:2000 certification for Provision of Customer Service in Loan Delivery has been secured for selected branches in 2002, and this will be extended to all branches in 2003.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Comparative Politics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Comparative Politics - Essay Example But knowing the research involved in Comparative Politics, undoubtedly Empirical Approach is not only the most suitable, but also absolutely necessary. Comparative politics is considered to be an area of intense and continuous research, trying to keep up with the world politics, understanding intricacies of international relationships and foreign policies and diplomacies either leading to events or resulting from them. "The study of comparative politics, like the study of the other sciences, has had a logic of its own, a developmental pattern that combined specific questions about the various nations and peoples in the world, specific data, and specific problems, all within a learning process that has taken a specific direction and reached a working synthesis of its own past," Lane (1997, p.2). It is important as it is also the study of different cultures, ideologies, nations and diverse thinking processes. This is different from political correctness and it does not expect all administrations and policies of all countries to be uniform. Actually it celebrates the diversity, accepts peculiarities and the unknown and hence, more natural and less overbearing. It does not revel in terms like barbarians or foreigners. It involves comparing countries, their problems, economic development and democracy, monarchies, military and autocratic rules, violent political dissent and social revolutions, pure and hybrid regimes, predicting the democracies, non-violent political dissents and transitions to democracy, performances of such democracies, design of institutions, new challenges, and in the end, there is a process to compare the comparisons. It also involves in a linear relationship between economic development and democracies, explanations to democratic institutional performances, positive and negative relationships between ideologies and their institutions. Hard facts concerning history, economics, sociology and politics are found through empirism. It emphasizes the collection of empirical data and the rigorous testing of theoretical proposition against this data. "Empiricism: models or theory were non-existent in traditional comparative politics, at least at the level of intention and recognition. Concepts were often employed with little methodological discussion as to their definition and measurement," Bill and Hardgrave in Lane and Ersson (1994, p.2). As unanimity cannot be established in world governments, the interests and attitudes of influential groups that are running the administration in various countries have to be studied under 'Comparative Government' and for this process, there is no replacement of empirical approach. In studies concerning politics, empirical method provides all answers and offers insights to understand diversity. Aristotle, in his days, being disturbed by the infighting and instability of States around him, causing havoc, had studied those governments empirically, by classifying them into three groups and then, by subdividing them into further five groups, according to their wellbeing and wealth, legitimacy, monarchy and tyranny. This is exactly what the present day political scientist does by way of analysing through empirical methods, collecting data, enhancing or condensing the collected evidences and classifying them under various groups, according to their ideologies, forms, institutions, politica l religions, cultures, agendas and national

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Medical Problems as a Result of Chronic Cocaine Abuse and Alco Lab Report

Medical Problems as a Result of Chronic Cocaine Abuse and Alcoholism - Lab Report Example Initially, the client described the pain as stabbing rated 9/10; however, after administering 2 SL Nitro and ASA 325 mg, the pain gradually became â€Å"crampy† and is currently rated 1/10. In addition, the client was also given Lasix 40 mg IV. The client reported that she tried Excedrin PM and Tylenol PM at home to relieve the pain but was unsuccessful. A day prior to consulting, the client related that she tried taking 100 mg of Toprol XL, which provided no pain relief.Carissa had a history of uncontrolled hypertension and was diagnosed with congestive heart failure (CHF), dilated cardiomyopathy, and polysubstance abuse.- The client had a history of longstanding hypertension and polysubstance abuse.- In March 2005, the client was diagnosed with stage II left intraductal breast carcinoma, metastatic with 1/14 left axillary lymph nodes. The client was S/P left mastectomy, chemotherapy, and XRT. She had a history of depression in the same year.- In July 2006, the client was dia gnosed with congestive heart failure and dilated cardiomyopathy.   - On 11/7/2006 – 16/7/2006, the client was admitted in the ward for 5 days after presenting to the ED with complaints of chest pains and SOB. During her admission, the client’s cardiac enzymes, electrolytes, Mg++ levels are all WNL. Her EKG showed normal sinus rhythm with LA enlargement, LVH, and a prolonged QT interval (.514 sec) but no dynamic changes worrisome for cardiac ischemia. CXR showed marked cardiomegaly with some pulmonary vascular congestion. An ECHO was performed during this time revealing LA dilation (5.0 cm) with LV size at the upper limit of normal, severe impairment of LV systolic function with a calculated biplane EF of 14%. The LV diastolic filling pattern was felt to be â€Å"pseudonormal.† It was during this time that RT was started on an aggressive 5 drug regimen for heart failure and recommended to follow up with a cardiologist at the Myers Park Heart Failure clinic. She has followed up with the Heart Failure clinic two times since July.

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

The Market Opportunities Available to Carrefour in a South Africa Assignment

The Market Opportunities Available to Carrefour in a South Africa - Assignment Example This paper provides a detailed outline of the market entry strategies that the Board of Directors should consider for entering the retail business sector in South Africa. It has been recommended that the joint venture would be the safest and most profitable method of market entry. Table of Contents 1 Brief Synopsis of the Issue 4 Recommendation(s) 4 Background 4 Company overview 4 Theories of international trade and investments 5 Analysis of Market Opportunities in South Africa 6 Company Situation Analysis 10 Analysis of various types of market entry strategies 13 Market entry Strategy: Joint venture 15 Reference List 17 Brief Synopsis of the Issue The proposed market entry strategy for Carrefour is joint venture since this is the best option available to the firm for minimizing threat involved in entering the new market and for gaining knowledge of the local market. Recommendation(s) South Africa is a developing country and the national government is making efforts to attract foreig n direct investment Carrefour is a multinational firm with advanced technological know-how Joint venture with a well performing local firm in the same business is the best strategy to enter the South African market Background Recently, Carrefour has made an unsuccessful attempt to enter the Russian market with the aim of establishing a hypermarket in the country. The causes of the failures have been found to be lack of potential demand (particularly for organic food items) and low opportunities for acquisition and growth. This paper presents a case study, which acts as the platform on which the company should build its strategy to enter the South African market. Through this paper, it has been recommended that Carrefour should adopt the strategy of a joint venture for entering the South African retail industry. Company overview Carrefour was founded in France in the year 1960 by two entrepreneurs, one textile retailer and the other a food wholesaler. In 1960, the first store was hig hly successful and it marked the beginning of the company’s successful journey. In 1975, the company made its first venture outside Europe and opened a hypermarket in Brazil. Since then Carrefour has expanded its business across the globe. Presently, the company has 4635 stores in France alone and more than 5200 stores in Europe, Asia, Latin America, Caribbean and North Africa and Middle East (Carrefour, n.d.). However, in 2009, the company faced a setback while trying to establishing a hypermarket in Russia due to lack of demand for its organic food products (Indu, 2011). The company was forced to quit their business in Russia and exited after four months. It is currently considering South Africa as a prospective country for making investments. Theories of international trade and investments In the modern globalized business world, there is wide agreement on the benefits of international trade among the economist, politicians and academic researchers. Investments made in for eign countries are believed to boost up business operations around the world and also lead to economic progress of the host countries. These countries are encouraged to modify the economic policies pertaining to international trade in such as way, that they can promote international trade and investment.  

Monday, August 26, 2019

The Media Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Media - Research Paper Example In as much as the media stands a vital role in the development of the social order, its fairness in terms of reporting remains questionable. Unfairness issue in the media has been connected to two main reasons. Firstly, it entails the instances of extortion of journalists who reveal the unpleasant facts regarding such vices like; human rights catastrophes, poverty, and environmental abuse. Secondly, the aspect of unfairness along such issues as the racial divide in the mainstream media has led to critics to inquire whether fairness does exist when it comes to reporting by the media. One agency that has always been much concerned about fair reporting is the Fair and Accuracy in Reporting (FAIR) that was founded in the year 1986 in the US(Forte, 2011). According to the agency, most reporters are involved in partisan statements that reveal half-truths whenever they are reporting in either broadcast or print. The trend is very common more especially in social matters such as environmenta l abuse, human rights abuse and elections. Sociologists refer to mass media as mediated culture whereby, media reflects and at the same time creates the culture(Journalism, media and the challenge of human rights reporting, 2002). Individuals and communities are always bombarded with information from a multitude of media sources. The messages not only promote goods and services, but human being attitudes, moods, and a sense of whatever is important or not important. The modern level of mass media saturation has not always been in existence. In the 1960s and 1970, for example, television primarily consisted of three networks that included public broadcasting and very few local independent broadcasting stations. What is the role of mass media? Media executives, Legislatures, sociologists and local school officials have all discussed this type of controversial question. In as much as ideas vary as to the type and extent of influence the media stands, all parties consent that media

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Business Ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 2

Business Ethics - Essay Example Thus, it is expected that the modern business will work for achieving growth and success for both the individual company and their communities (Business Ethics). The social and environmental thinking of business not only encompass a legal duty but also the long-term success of the business. Argument Businesses are operated within the society using the resources from and depending on the society for the proper functioning of the business operations. Therefore attending to the welfare of the society is an obligation or a responsibility on the part of the business organizations. Thus, the social responsibility of business forbids businesspersons in adopting unfair policies that may maximize the profit of the business but harm the interest of the society. Welfare activities on the part of the business organization gain benevolence and reputation. Business carrying out their duties properly can avoid government regulations. The employees are more satisfied if a good working environment is provided with some additional facilities. This in turn increases their productivity and hence facilitates the business. Last but not the least, providing quality products to the consumers at competitive prices is also necessary in the days of increasing consumer awareness about their rights. The integral development of human being is related with the obligations that may arise because of the relationship of man with the environment. Business or the material environment has been taking its toll on the environment and questioning the sustainability of future generations with the increasing pollution, new illnesses and its destructive capacity. If these are not immediately controlled then it may create immense problem for the entire human class. The problems of the ecological and environmental crisis cannot be looked upon distinctly from the notions of development. The obligations of the business towards the environment include consideration of the environment in the decision-making p rocesses and thereafter supervise the activities. There are obligations including monitoring of proper discharge of water. Proper insurance should be done against environmental damage. The environmental taxes and the charges should be paid properly. The land that is being used for the construction purpose should follow proper planning norms and the environmental legislation unit of the country should approve the product. According to the definition of sustainable development, a development is said to be sustainable if the present generation can provide the future generations with at least the same benefits that it inherited from the past generation if not more. However, if the environmental degradation continues then the future generation will not be left also with their basic requirements for a proper living. Since the natural resources are scarce, the use of those resources by the business organizations in their production should be limited and handed in a proper manner to reduce misutilization. Negligence or refusal on the part of a few people in handling the stewardship of the environment in a responsible manner may invite the larger population to experience ‘increased hardship’. The creation of the God is for all human beings and generations and hence needed to be shared equally by the humanity as a whole. The supplies of certain natural resources

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Health Promotion Module , NAPIER UNIVERSITY , Coursework

Health Promotion Module , NAPIER UNIVERSITY , - Coursework Example One has to describe the whole situation openly so the situation is cleared to everyone. Then it has to be analyzed that what happened was done in correct manner and finally it is evaluated that whether it could have been done in a better manner. All three critical thought processes of reflection ensure better learning from an individual’s past experience (Larrivee, 2000, pp. 293--307). Difference between reflection  in  action and  reflection  on  action Reflection in action is the process of thinking before the task has been done. All the consequences are kept in mind before taking first step of task. Reflection on action is opposite to reflection in action because here a person thinks about the act that has been done and he learns from his experience. In this kind of reflection people feel the situation more realistically and can express feeling more effectively (Keyte and Harris et al., 2012, pp. 155--160). Gibbs model of reflection compare with the Atkins and Mur phy model Gibbs model of reflection is very clear and includes description of situation, feelings of the person facing situation, analysis of whole situation and then evaluates the whole situation leading to new strategies if the particular situation encounters again. While in Atkins and Murphy model awareness to situation is necessary to continue the effective process for description, analysis and evaluation and then a person make further action plans. For the same reason I would prefer to use Atkins and Murphy model because prior knowledge is always better to know the new situation. One must know their comfort level of their feelings and thought [4]. TASK 2 - Evidence-based approach to global health promotion Summary Poverty is biggest evil and for many years humankind is working to eradicate it completely but there comes hurdles that haven’t made it successful like in the case of Africa where much aid has been given but have not shown a significant change (Van Der Berg, 20 08). The speaker Esther Duflo highlighted three problems and there solutions in the discussion, according to her three are three main problems which are as follows: Effective immunization When the speaker started her work in Udaipur Rajistan only one percent children were immunized. She observed that not only providing centers to people is enough but there must be some incentives that encourage them to immunize their kids on time. The strategy was implemented and showed a 6 times increase in the rate of immunization (Drewnowski and Specter, 2004, pp. 6--16). Effective use of net beds During the same case study they found that people were offered bed nets for free and after a year they purchased them because they were used to it unlikely those who did not get for free. Send children to school According to the speaker, only by curing intestinal worm problems a 30% increase in the population can be seen in children going to school (Nodhj?lp, 2013). The speaker carries all statistics an d shows very effectively by telling that education is the cheapest mode to eradicate poverty. As we all know poverty is root of evil. It creates unavoidable circumstances, when someone doesn’t have food to eat or someone’s children are dying he acts violently and here comes need of education

Friday, August 23, 2019

Answsering law quesiton Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Answsering law quesiton - Essay Example Jaime owed Simon and Davina a duty of care, being the owner of a restaurant which serves food to the public for a fee. Hence, he has the duty and obligation to see to it that clients are served well because he is engaged in the food business, and attached to this is the quality of service to his clients. Based on the facts of the case, there is clearly a breach of duty on the part of Jaime, the moment he forget to inform the chef that Simon and his guest only requested for vegetarian dishes. It was due to the fact that there were several guests that same night that kept him pre-occupied that he totally forgot to inform the chef of Simon’s request. As a restaurant owner, he owed a duty of care to all the clients and guests who enter and dine in his restaurant. In the case at bar, the fact that Simon informed Jaime only to serve them vegetarian dishes is an indication that Simon has already foreseen the damage or harm that will be inflicted upon Davina in case a different food, and not vegetarian dishes will be served to her. This act done by Simon in order to protect Davina is also known as the ‘neighbor principle’. He took the necessary steps to exert reasonable amount of care to avoid acts or omissions which you can reasonably foresee would be likely to injure his guest, Davina. It is thereof without a doubt that a duty of care was expected of Jaime to Simon and Lavina There is also a proximity between the parties, as Jaime is the seller and Lavina and Simon are the buyers of his services. Under the law, is it fair, just and reasonable in all the circumstances to impose a duty of care in the case of Jamie. Here, Jamie is liable for the tort of negligence due to his failure to exercise reasonable care which caused a damage to Davina. His failure to inform the chef that only vegetarian dishes should be served is tantamount to negligence or omission on the part of Jamie. Therefore, he is liable to pay consequential damages to Davina because th ere is a strong connection between the cause of his failure to take reasonable care and that damages that Davina has suffered. Verily, there is a clear showing that Davina would not have been injured â€Å" but for† the Jamie’s act or omission. Hence, Davina entitled to an award of consequential damage because aside from the violent illnsess, she also suffered from consequential economic loss when she cancelled a photo shoot costs of the damage for a beauty campaign, which could have been an opportunity for her to receive economic gain. 2.) Jamie can raise the defense of contributory negligence on the part of Davina. This means that any award of damages may be reduced to the extent that the Davina, the claimant was to blame for the injury or loss inflicted to herslf. It is entirely Davina’s fault if she had too many glasses of champagne prior to her meeting with Simon and totally forgot to inform him about her allergic food reaction. This act shall hold her liab le for contributory negligence. The fault shall be shared by Jamie and Davina. There was also a mistake committed by Davina by coming to the restaurant in a sober mood, and totally disregarding to report to Simon about the allergic food reaction that she possesses. This act redounds to inaction, omission and oversight on the part of Divina. The Law Reform Act 1945(Contributory Negligence) provides for apportionment of blame between the

Bond pricing and fund managemet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Bond pricing and fund managemet - Essay Example the amount of returns that an investor can earn from an investment, as well as the future changes as a result of economic risk associated with that particular investment can be established. For this reason, the above curve facilitates a significant comparison in bonds values. The term structure of interest rates is also the yield curve and is a central element in modern financial and monetary economics. It is the variation of the bonds’ yield with identical risk profiles with these bonds’ terms2. The yield curve shows the relationship between bonds yield to maturity and the effective maturity. Bonds with longer maturities are considered to have higher yields. However, there are also opinions that the yield curve may be flat showing that the yield curve remains the same irrespective of the bonds’ maturity. Also, in some cases, bonds with short-term maturities have their yield curves inverted implying that they are higher than those of long-term bonds3. Notes that the bonds’ yield curve is influenced by several factors among them the fiscal policies, inflation, economic conditions, tax policies, foreign exchange rates, expected forward rates, bonds’ credit rating and foreign capital inflows as well as outflows. The term structure of interest rates bears three identifiable features. They include higher volatility of yields on short-term bonds than long-term bonds; change in yields of various bonds move in the same directions; and the long-term bonds have higher yields. Several theories have been advanced to explain these characteristics. They are broadly classified as the market segmentation theory and expectations theories, which are the preferred habitat theory, the liquidity premium, and the pure expectation theory. Given that bonds have some set durations, sellers and buyers frequently have preferred maturities. The bond buyers prefer maturities that coincide with when they need money or with their liabilities while the bond sellers want maturities

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Homework 1 SPSS Essay Example for Free

Homework 1 SPSS Essay 1.How many respondents said they drink because their friends drink?_________________ 2.What is the mean age of the respondents?_________________ 3.What is the modal response (most common response) to the question about when drinking occurs on Saturday?_________________________________ Create a new variable SENIORS from CLASS: 1 for those who are seniors, 2 for all others. Be sure to use the â€Å"All others† choice. There is no need to specify â€Å"system-missing to system-missing† for this question. How many students are in each category? 4. Seniors __________ 5. All others______ ¬___ 6.How many respondents consider themselves social drinkers? __________________ 7.What is the modal response to the question: How many nights do you go out?_________________ 8.What percent of the valid responses are heavy drinkers? ____________________ 9.How many respondents said they are problem drinkers?____________________ 10.What is the mean response to the question about whether school interferes with students’ social lives?_____________________ 11.What is the mean number of credit hours for which the respondents are enrolled?_____________________ 12.What is the mean GPA of the respondents?_____________________ 13.What percent of the valid responses don’t like wine cooler at all? _____________________ Create a new variable WORK2 from WORK: let l = do not work,14. Do not work_____________ 2 = do work. DO NOT use the â€Å"All others† choice. How many students are in each category? 15.Work ______________ 16.How many students said they have had financial aid while at IU?_____________________ 17.How many females completed the survey?_____________________ 18.What is the mean amount of money the students in our sample have available each week for entertainment?_____________________ 19.What is the mean response to the statement â€Å"Academic success is very important to me?†_____________________ 20.What is the mean response to the statement â€Å"Drinking is an important part of my social life?†_____________________ 1. 9 2. 21.3684 3. 3/Evening 4. 62 5. 15 6. 29 7. 2 8. 18.9% 9. 1.3% 10. 2.5921/Neither agree nor disagree 11. 15.5658 12. 3.2021 13. 25.7% 14. 38 15. 39 16. 43 17. 36 18. 74.8667 19. 6.3056 20. 4.1429

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

History of Womens Rights in Britain

History of Womens Rights in Britain British society has undergone many changes in the period before the 1st World War, the industrialization that changes in womens life promoted womens independence and emancipated them from the patriarchy (June Purvis, Jane Humphries, 1995, P86). During that time British society has undergone a radical change in employment levels and composition of social classes. While the men were at the front, the English women participated massively in the war effort in the arms industry the munitionnettes, and the political struggle to conquer the right to vote was conducted by the suffragettes. The year1918 is considered a transitional year in the acquisition of voting rights given to English women. ONeil W.L described the vote as a reward gave to women for their dedicated service during the war. (Their performance on the home front won English women to vote, 1969, p79) However, it appears obvious to ask why the vote in 1918 under the Representation of the People Act gives the right to vote only to women over 30 years and excluded young women who worked in munitions factories. The economic and social role played by women during the First World War has helped give them the right to vote, however, other factors must also be taken into account. We first explore the time period before the 1st World War that led to electoral reforms of 1918 and the years of struggle and activism. Similarly, we show the action undertaken by the suffragettes before and during the war but also the social and economic role of women. Finally, we analyze the consequences of granting the right to vote. The British suffragist did not plead equality of gender, but instead justified their claims by the difference between men and women (M.Pugh 1992, p3). It is judicious to remember what the political rights of English women were especially before 1918. Women have not always been excluded from parliamentary elections. The following years show, however, through the action of the first organizations suffragists, slight changes in the legislation for women: in 1869, the taxpayers and single women won the right to participate in municipal elections (Borough election), the Education Act of 1870, opened the school boards to women (June Purvis, 1995, p280), the Municipal Corporation Act of 1882 allowed them to elect representatives to the Municipal Council. The law on property rights for married women ( Married Women Property Act) (June Purvis, 1995, P283) was also significant in that it represents a clear recognition of legal emancipation, because before a married womans property was owned by her husband (June Purvis, 1995, p76). The Married Womens Property Committee (J. Purvis, 1995, P282) founded in 1865 by Dr. Pankhurst had always believed that before fighting for the right to vote, women should have control of their own money ( married women had no legal existence from their husbands, they had no rights over their property). It was done in 1882. In 1894, the government gives the right to vote to married women. No more reforms came after 1894 in favour of the improving of the women situation. The suffragist movement starts with two majors rivals ideological organisations: The National Union of Womens Suffrage Societies (NUWSS) and the Womens Social and Political Union (J. Purvis, 1995, P296). In 1861, on 10380558 women in England and Wales, there were 2293752 bachelors and widows (A. Rosen, 1974, p3). Employment opportunities for women of the middle class were also very limited: education except universities comprised 72.5% of women (Lee Holcombe, 1973 P203) but very poorly paid, and domestic work. This difficulty of single women to find a job paying enough incentive to Ladies of Langham Place (J. Purvis, SS Holton, 2000, p59) to begin a series of campaigns from 1850 and was certainly one of the reasons led to the emergence and expansion of the feminist movement. First suffragist organised movement appeared in 1867, when a new electoral law voted by the Liberals, widened the electorate to male workers in cities and nothing to women. The indignation of women increased when the electoral reform of 1884 by Conservative gave the vote to agricultural workers and nothing to women. In 1897, the movement was reorganised and consolidated within National Union of Womens Suffrage Societies, chaired by Millicent Garrett Fawcett (J Purvis, S S Holton, 1995, p285) who claimed the parliamentary franchise for women on the same terms as it is or may be granted to men. The NUWSS directed his efforts by conversion of the public opinion and adopted a neutral attitude with political parties. The main militant and most famous suffragist movement is the Womens Social and Political Union, founded in October 1903 in Manchester by Emmeline Pankhurst in order to promote, through social and political work, interests of workers. Christabel, the eldest daughter of Emmeline Pankhurst noticed how constitutional action of Mrs. Fawcett is unsuccessful decided to participate in a political meeting, harassing MPs. Deed not Words was their permanent motto (J. Purvis, Sandra Stanley, 2000, P111). On October 13, 1905, at a Liberal Party meeting in Manchester, Christabel and Annie Kenney (youngest member of the WSPU) attempted to question Sir Edward Gray on the future intentions of the Liberal government on the issue of womens suffrage, Will the Liberal Government, if returned, give votes to women?(June Purvis, 2000, p112) They received no reply, they were forcibly evicted by policemen, and Christabel committed the technical offense of spitting at a policeman in order to be arrested. They did not pay the fine and were sent to jail for three days (S. Pankhurst, 1931, p189-191). Across the country, the suffragettes began to disrupt meetings and prosecute ministers who appeared in public. Imprisonment multiplied, made of a suffragette as a martyr (J. Purvis, M. Mulvey-Roberts, 2000, P159). In June 1906, Christabel took the head of the party and announced that WSPU will adopt an impartial attitude towards all the other candidates. On October 12, 1907, a constitution written by Teresa Billington was adopted (Andrew Rosen, 1974, p72), is providing the primary objective of obtaining the right to vote, which was used to establish equal rights and opportunities. Six strategies were considered, including the main lines: opposition to all government, Participation in Parliamentary Elections in opposition to the Government candidate and independently of all other candidates, vigorous stirring and education of public opinion. In 1909, began the second phase of militant action, with hunger strikes (J Purvis, 2000, p160) (to obtain the status of political prisoners) and new methods more violent, which the government responded with repression. The demonstrators were brutalized, arrested, and the hunger strikes were controlled by ordering to force suffragettes to feed (J Purvis, 2000, P145). After 1911, however, activism became increasingly violent; methods of WSPU did not generate support from the public opinion and politicians. The suffragists had begun to break windows, cause arson, setting fire to letterboxes, thereby attracting the growing hostility of the population. A significant number of suffragettes left in 1907, the WSPU, and follow direction of Mrs. Charlotte Despard, with the Womens Freedom League, which advocated passive resistance, for example, tax-resistance, to refuse that single women to pay tax (J. Purvis, 1995, P291-292) or to participate in the census. The suffragettes actions have seriously undermined the unity and the strength of the suffrage movement. By transgressing the laws, the suffragettes knew to seek attention to womens demands by refusing to obey the laws made by men only, to discredit the government by revealing its inability to respects laws and to pressure the government in order to have positive answer to their request. The militant activities were attributed to hysteria activist hysteria (J. Purvis, SS Holton, 2000, p159), they went against the goals they set themselves. In1908, was created the Womens National Anti-Suffrage League, headed by Mrs. Humphry Ward, and their objectives where, first to resist the proposal to admit women to the parliamentary Franchise and to parliament and, to maintain the principle of the representation of women on municipal and other bodies concerned with domestic and social affairs of the community (J Purvis, 2000, P208). Even if inequalities still existed, we must recognize that progress has been made since the mid-nineteenth century with the Matrimonial Causes Act (1857) (J. Purvis, 1995, p76), the custody of Children (1873), the property rights for married women (1870 and 1882), the right to vote in municipal elections (1869). We must also remember that the idea of womens suffrage is in the minds of the population. The WW1 and the departure of men to the front emphasized the female workforce, with highlighting condition of work, prejudices, and discriminations at work. The declaration of the war cause important unemployment especially for women. In September 1914, 44% of women workers were unemployed against 27,4 % for men (MN Bonnes Raud, 1992, p357). In January 1915, 2 million of men in a total of 10, 6 million of men joined the army (M Pugh, 1992, p19). In March 1915, the Ministry of Commerce called to any woman wishing to participate in the war effort by working in industry, agriculture or commerce, to register on Register of Women for War Service . First, it was individual initiatives; women replace their husbands in shops, in offices. The women learned to perform in difficult factories, thus ending the reluctance of employers to hire them. Women held positions reserved for men (bus drivers, inspectors, window cleaners) and worked in munitions factories needed for the war. Women worked not only in the army industry but also in administration, and banks. Women had lower wages against men, before 1914, women worked and earned less than the half of men wages. The Treasury Agreement of 1915, did not stop the wage discrimination between men and women. The agreement ensured equal pay for work piece without mentioning hourly wages. In 1906, the female wage in textile was 58,5 % lower then mens wages, the average female wage was 43,7% less than men. (AL Bowley. Wages and Income in UK since 1860 (CUP 1937): MN Bonnes Raud p333). Between July 1914 and July 1918, the number of employed women rose from 4.93 million to 6.19 million, an increase of 1.26 million (M Pugh, 1992, p20). The war enabled women to access a greater number of jobs, sometimes better paid and more rewarding. The office work was more successful than agriculture for which we recruited many women (note 30 P66) but the conditions were not only harsh but also very similar to domestic service (M Pugh, 1992, P23). In October 1918, the Parliamentary gives to the right to vote for English women over the age 30. Women over 21 years waited until 1928 to get the right to vote equal to men. Laws counted many injustices in 1918 and to causes to defend were still numerous in divorce, succession, inheritance, right to vote, laws on nationality, child custody, employment opportunities and wages. Regarding wages, in 1970, the parliament voted a law on equal pay Equal Pay Act. Ten years after 1918, were characterized by numerous laws that change the legal and the personal status of the English women. Married women and mothers obtained to be treated with more justice and humanity. The Property law of 1922, Law and property Act recognized the equality of husband and wife, father and mother, son and daughter when a parent or a child died. Three laws dealing with divorce, the custody of children aim to more equality: the Matrimonial Causes Act of 1923 correct the Act of 1857 and made adultery a reason for div orce, The Summary Juridiction Act of 1925 increased the number of reason for women to separate from her the husband, and abolish the obligation for a women to leave her husband before initiating proceedings against him; The Guardianship of Infant Act granted to both spouses equal rights for custody of child in the case of divorce or separation. Regarding the status of single mothers Affiliation Orders Act of 1918, increased alimony to pay by the father for an illegitimate child, The bastardy Act of 1923, The Legitimacy Act of 1926, legitimized the born of the children outside of the marriage in the case of previous marriage, and Illegitimate Children Scotland Act of 1930. In 1926, a law of adoption Adoption of Children Act gave more security to the adopted child and parents that enable to increase the number of adoption. In 1925, the Widows Orphans and Old Age Pensions Act gave more social justice for widows, orphans, old-age people. Finally in 1925, the Criminal Justice Act ended the presumption that married women who committed crimes in the presence of her husband did it under duress of him. Conclusion: The traditional conception of women in Britain was strengthened by the First World War, with improvement in social policy and especially, in getting the right to vote and to be in the workplace. Indeed, if the right to vote should be considered as reward given to women, the first awarded were mothers but no young women who worked in factories because law established a minimum age of 30 years. Failures by the suffragist movement before 1914 show the little interest of politicians in women claims. However, they were able to use propaganda to attract women to work in industries. The pres showed pictures of women wearing trousers fashioning shells, or a post-office worker with a uniform driving trucks post. Once the war ended, in 1920, two thirds of women who had entered the workforce between 1914 and 1918 had left. A year later, the number of working women was slightly higher than in 1914 (A. Marwick, 1977, p 162). In February 1919, the number of workers had declined overall by 12.9% to -44.1% in the metallurgical industry, and -78.6% in the national armaments factories, the positive figures include clothing and food (MN Bonnes Raud, 1992 p447). The work of women proved that it was temporary propaganda supported by the government and the press. Inequalities among women in the workplace existed (type of job, wages), and they were not integrated like men. Women became certainly more aware about their values and men discovered that their wives, mothers, and young women are able to play an important role in the British history. References: A. Marwick, Women at war, 1914-1918, London : Croom Helm (for) the Imperial War Museum, 1977. Andrew Rosen, Rise up, women! : The militant campaign of the Womens Social and Political Union, 1903-1914: Routledge and Kegan Paul, 1974, P3. E. Sylvia, Pankhurst, The suffragette movement: an intimate account of persons and ideals, London: Longmans, Green, 1931 P189-191. Jane Purvis, Womens History: Britain, 1850-1945. An Introduction. 1995. Jane Purvis and S.S. Holton (eds.) Votes for women, 2000. Lee Holcombe, Victorian ladies at work: middle-class working women in England and Wales, 1850-1914, Newton Abbot: David and Charles, 1973. M. PUGH, Women and the Womens Movement in Britain 1914-1959, Basingstoke: Macmillan Education, 1992. MN Bonnes Raud, Les femmes au service de linstitution militaire en Grande-Bretagne pendant la Premià ¨re guerre mondiale (Doctorat, Bordeaux 3, 1992), P357. ONeill, William L, The woman movement: feminism in the United States and England, London: Allen Unwin, 1969, P79.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Observations Of An Early Years Child Young People Essay

Observations Of An Early Years Child Young People Essay In my essay I have aimed for the reader to achieve an understanding of what might appear to be some challenges facing early year practitioners working with birth three years in and out of home care. I undertook three visits to an eight-week-old baby See Appendix 1 regarding background information. I completed three observation sheets that demonstrate my interaction with a child of that age. Before I started my observations I was aware of what experiences could be valuable to . Due to his young age I knew his communication skills would consist of smiling, eye contact and crying. I was also aware he would be completely dependent on adults to support his physical and emotional needs. I also considered Piaget schemes of thought as he believed childrens outline of thoughts are apparent from babyhood in their early physical and sensory actions. During my time observing I was always in his home environment. I began to consider what challenges working with this age group could be in an early years setting. Current ratios in childcare settings are one adult to three babies aged six weeks two years. Children aged two three years have the ratio of one adult to five children. These ratios are set by the conditions made by Care Commission when inspecting premises for the first time before it opens. This shows the level of interaction will be limited compared to a 1:1 ratio that a child can receive at home. The quality of the interaction may be limited in a setting depending on the individual personality. This is where it is important for the practitioners to be aware of Getting it right for every child, (2007). This gives the practitioner the opportunity to look at a childs best outcomes for their well being regardless of their background or individual needs. In appendix B:3, column 3 I imitated s sounds and expressions. I picked up on his cue and copied it. This is in-line with Trevarthen, (1977:255) Play leading to a structured game and laughter, develops hand in hand with primary intersubjectivity. Interaction starts very early. Pre-verbal communication is the beginning of child language skills. Schaffer (1996) engaged together using a variety of dialogue between making sounds, movement touch and a variety of facial expressions. Children will also mirror what they are shown. Murray and Andrew, (2000:52) The parents mirroring is a way of conveying their acceptance of the baby and it can both affirm and enrich the babys experiences. In appendix B:2, column 3 mirrored his mums face signals. A babys stress level needs to be considered as Lyon et al (2000) suggested a high level of control could affect later emotional life for that child. This will affect their well-being. In my observation I was aware of the importance not to stress baby and to follow his routine. This is evident in B:1, column 2 and B:2, column 2. According to Balbernie, (2001) Relationships are essential to the babys health and well-being, and determine their future potential and life chances. This was important for me to understand as I engaged with baby . As a practitioner relationships with children under three years play an important role in the childs future outcomes. Challenges for a child being at home may be that they live far away from other children and not have any siblings. Also parents are spending more time away from home due to work commitments. Dryden, (2005) feels practitioners will need to be vigilant of a child who may not be used to sharing or new/loud noises. The child may also not be used to sharing the significant adult. The setting has to be a high learning environment for children up to three years. Adults have a responsibility to have a knowledge and understanding of child development. Adults do have an influence in a childs development. As families may also ask for advice, a practitioner needs to be able to support them or have an understanding when they need to seek further advice from another source. These are all aspects that Dryden (2005) considers to be important. Working in partnership with parents sharing information and involving them in their childs continuous learning and development. This is stated in The Early Years Foundation Stage, point 1.27. According to Frobel, Montessori and Steiner each stage of a childs development is important and requires sensitive and appropriate handling. They believed in looking at a childs achievement rather than what a child struggles to do. However as I was working with a child of a young age I was aware of his brain cells forming rapidly. According to Dowling, (2010) A young brain grows rapidly through sensory experiences, touch, taste, touch hearing, seeing and smell. I felt with the experiences B1-B3 I contributed to s learning whilst keeping his routine in place. Different models can be used to consider a childs development. The checklist model is where a practitioner can see what a child can or cannot achieve. The medical model is whereby seen if a child is healthy. Another model is the deficit model. This is where an adult will lead activities in order to test whether a child has acquired knowledge or developed a skill. The Early Years Foundation Stage has a profile scale booklet, which practitioners may use to assist them with their observations and assessment of a childs development. Bowlbys (1969) theory points out babies and young children can become close to a small number of adults. Babies are also born to seek secure attachments; they need comfort and have physical and emotional needs. A child who has a secure attachment may struggle to settle into a nursery setting if not offered opportunities to mix with other adults and children. Bowlbys (1998) work demonstrates a child in out-of-home setting will look for another adult to be their significant key person. A practitioner will need to be aware a child may feel vulnerable at arrival time, changes within the playroom and other adults in the room. Dryden, (2005) expresses the importance of a practitioner working with the child and family to develop a close professional relationship. The child will see the family involvement with their key worker and this will enable the child to form a secure attachment to the key worker/practitioner. Whalley and the Pen Green Centre Team, (1997) also believe practitioners and parents should share information about the childs play behaviour at home and within the setting. This will help to provide a good understanding of the benefits to the child and to enable a close relationship to support their play. A challenge to this would be if parents were unwilling to work alongside the setting and with staff. In Early Years Foundation Stage Principle 1.4 one of the themes emphasises that every child is unique and has the ability to learn and develop in a confident manner. This will allow practitioners to understand the importance of being in tune with children and this can be done through knowledge of child development and observations. Recording of information is also important for sharing information. This is outlined in the Pre-Birth to Three guidance. The Pre-Birth to Three, Positive Outcomes for Scottish Children and Families document is the national guidance for practitioners working with children under the age of three and for other adults who are involved with children. It is also to make a smoother transition before children begin to engage with the Curriculum For Excellence. People may challenge if children need a curriculum for such an early age. Dryden, (2005) believes an early years curriculum must be examined to consider the experiences that are of most relevance to very young children. Dryden stresses that a curriculum at the age of under three is not appropriate. Researchers Gopnik, Meltzoff and Kuhl (1999) believed babies learn through experience. A practitioner can offer experiences and opportunities in the early years to expand their learning whilst using a curriculum for guidance. Pre-Birth to Three guidance states Supporting and providing appropriate challenges for babies and young children is key to achieving pos itive outcomes in the future. A curriculum for the children under three according to Manning-Morton and Thorp, (2001) should be about focusing on what children can do either with or without support and not what they should be doing at a certain age. Childrens experiences under three years is the foundation of their future. Children need positive relationships, interaction and opportunities to learn to grow to their full potential. Partnerships with parents and agencies offer a community of support to the individual. The role of the adult is vital to the child learning whether it be in the home or a play setting. When planning to meet with baby I communicated well with his mother via the phone and by showing her the information regarding my work at university. This too is important in a setting. This is in-line with the Pre-Birth to Three guidance developing effective communication systems. To meet all the children needs, practitioners will face difficulties in large settings. Practitioners should consider Bruce (1987) Principle 7 What babies and young children can rather than cannot do is the starting point of the childs play, learning and education. Time will also play an important factor in a practitioners ability to meet the needs of children, especially under three years, as they are all individuals and have particular routines.

Monday, August 19, 2019

The Invention of Air Conditioning :: essays research papers

Willis Haviland Carrier invented the first air conditioner in 1902. This was designed to boost the working process control in a printing plant. Carrier’s invention controlled temperature and humidity. The low heat and humidity helped keep the paper dimensions and ink alignment the same. Later his invention was used to populate productivity in the workplace. The Carrier Air Conditioning Company of America developed for the increasing demands. Gradually, air conditioning was used to help increase comfort in homes and cars. Residential sales increased rapidly in the 1950's. Carrier lived from 1876-1950. He graduated with a Masters in Engineering from Cornell University. One of Carrier’s first patents was awarded to him in 1906,â€Å"The Apparatus for Treating Air†. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers was given Willis Carrier’s formula for the Rational Psychrometric Formulae. The Carrier Engineering Corporation was formed in 1915. The factors for exponential growth for air-conditioning are the HVAC Market, energy, environment, communication, societal, political, preparing for the future, looking ahead, and the conclusion. Buildings of the U.S. use approximately 35% of the nation’s precise total of energy consumption. The worth of shipments by U.S. HVAC manufacturers was over $28 billion of 1996. Since there are 52,000 CHC chillers needed to be replaced among the U.S., there’s a large opportunity for new chillers, new technology for the HVAC industry. The ozone depletion is an international issue in which is currently being resolved. The 3rd world countries are still allowed to manufacture CFC’s. Illegal imports of CFC’S to the U.S. is a consistent concern. Many illegal imports are virgin CFC’s. Those whom have a political overtones are specifically the ones whom create a protectionism of local commerce, having a negative impact on those inside and out of the country.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Stephen Crane and Walt Whitman: The Natural and the Language of Social

Stephen Crane and Walt Whitman: The Natural and the Language of Social Protest      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Though in his short life Stephen Crane was never a soldier, his novel The Red Badge of Courage was commended by Civil War veterans as well as veterans from more recent wars not only for its historical accuracy but its ability to capture the psychological evolution of those on the field of battle (Heizberg xvi). Walt Whitman, on the other hand, served as a field medic during the Civil War. He was exposed perhaps to the most gruesome aspect of the war on a daily basis: the primitive medical techniques, the wounded, the diseased, the dying and the dead. Out of his experiences grew a collection of poems, "Drum Taps" , describing the horrors he had witnessed and that America suffered. As literary artists, a wide chasm of structure and style separates Crane and Whitman. The common cultural experience, the heritage of the Civil War connects them, throwing a bridge across the darkness, allowing them, unilaterally, to dispel notions of glorious battles and heroic honorable de aths. By examining Crane's Henry Fleming and the wound dresser from 'Whitman's poem of the same name, both fundamental literary differences and essential thematic consistencies emerge.    In The Red Badge of Courage, Henry Fleming was drawn to enlist by his boyhood dreams. His highly romanticized notion of war was eclectic, borrowing from various classical and medieval sources. Nevertheless, his exalted, almost deified, conception of the life of a soldier at rest and in combat began to deflate before the even the ink had dried on his enlistment signature. Soon the army ceased to possess any personal characteristics Henry had once envisioned, becoming an unthinking, dispas... ...  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Eds. New York: W.W. Norton, 1962. Hartwick, Harry. The Foreground of American Fiction. New York: American Book Co, 1934, p. 17-44 Rpt in Crane,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Stephen. The Red Badge of Courage. Sculley Bradley, Richard Beatty, and E. Hudson Long Eds. New York: W.W. Norton, 1962. Schroeder, John W. "Stephen Crane Embattled," University of Kansas City Review, XVII (Winter 1950), 119 Rpt. in   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Crane, Stephen. The Red Badge of Courage. Sculley Bradley, Richard Beatty, and E. Hudson Long Eds. New York: W.W. Norton, 1962. Walcutt, C.C. American Literary Naturalism, A Divided Stream. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1952, p.66-82 Rpt in Crane, Stephen. The Red Badge of Courage. Sculley Bradley, Richard Beatty, and E. Hudson Long Eds. New York: W.W. Norton, 1962. Whitman, Walt. Leaves of Grass. New York: Bantam Books, 1983.

Greek Mythology :: Greek Mythology, Informative

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Long ago, people lacked knowledge on why certain things happened. Without scientific answers, like we have today, the Ancient Greeks created their own answers about the world and an individual’s place in it. These tales were known as myths. They described the feelings and values that bound the members of society. There are two types of myths -- creation myths and explanatory myths. A creation myth explained the start of many events such as the origin of the world and the creation of human beings. An explanatory myth explained a natural process or event such as illness and death. Most myths concerned divine beings such as gods, goddesses and other heroes with supernatural powers. These characters had many human characteristics, aside from their special powers, that included birth and death and the presence of emotions such as love and jealousy. These human qualities of the divine beings reflected the values of society. Such characters are called anthropomor phic, derived from two Greek words meaning â€Å"in the shape of man†. Gods and goddesses that resembled animals were referred to as theriomorphic, derived from two Greek words meaning â€Å"in the shape of an animal†. The last group of mythical characters has no name. They didn’t take the form of a complete human or animal, such as a figure with a human body and an animal head. As well as being entertaining and interesting to read, myths played an important role in Ancient Greek society.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Greeks honored their gods with different kinds of festivals. Their celebrations have continued throughout the years and two have become worldwide traditions.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Sample Survey Questionnaire

Good day! The researcher is conducting a study entitled, â€Å"Advantages and Disadvantages of a First Year Cadet who has a Cousin on the Senior Classes†. This survey will serve as an instrument in the fulfillment of the said study. The researcher also hopes for honest answers which will be based on your own experience inline with the study. The researcher also assures you that your response will be kept confidential. Truly yours, E/Cdt. Sesgundo, Jun Paulo B. Researcher Personal Information: Name (Optional):_____________________________ Age: ______________ Year and Section: _____________________________Instructions: Put whether your answer is strongly agree, agree, disagree or strongly disagree through their corresponding numbers as listed below; 4 – Strongly Agree 3 – Agree 2 – Disagree 1 – Strongly Disagree |Questions |Response | |A. |Did your cousin from the higher classes help you in entering NYK-TDG Maritime Academy? | | |B. |Does your cousin from the higher classes help you in your daily life inside NYK-TDG Maritime | | | |Academy? | |C. |Does your cousin from the higher classes help you in your academic subjects? | | |D. |Does your cousin from the higher classes help you when other senior bullies you? | | |E. |Does your classmates and batch mate benefits from you on having a cousin on the senior classes? | | |F. |Did some of your classmates and batch mate criticize you on having a cousin from the senior | | | |classes? | | |G. Have you been given a corrective measure from another senior just because of having a cousin from | | | |the higher classes? | | |H. |Have you once used your cousin’s name as an alibi for having done a violation? | | | |Does your cousin from the higher classes give you a corrective measure for having done a | | |I. |violation? | | |J. |Is your cousin from the higher classes going on bonding with you during liberties and vacations? | | |K. Does your cousin from the higher classes cares abo ut you in terms of your attitude performance | | | |towards other cadets? | | |L. |Is your cousin from the senior classes bias between you and your other fellow first year cadets? | | |M. |If your cousin is bias with you and other first year cadets, are you in favor of it? | | |N. |Did your cousin from the higher classes give a corrective measure to other cadets because of | | | |bullying you? | |

Friday, August 16, 2019

Rhetorical Devices Essay

The definition of an anecdote is a story that is very short that either explains or emphasizes a point that is trying to be made. In my speech when I was explaining that soccer has affected the paths that my life has taken including schools and friends, I used the short story of getting recruited for soccer at the high school and collegiate level, which is also where I met my best friends. In Bekah Diehl’s speech making the point that the saying â€Å"the only fear is fear itself† she said she not scared of the fear of baseballs, but rather the ball itself. The story she used was with her friends playing catch with the baseball around her. The conclusion is the final part of a speech that closes it and ties it all main points together. In the conclusion the thesis is stated, the main points are summarized, and a clincher is said to leave the audience with. The conclusion for my speech was that soccer has made me a well-rounded individual and has shaped the person that I am today. My favorite memories have included playing soccer and my teammates. When I step on the field I am free. I would not be the same person today if soccer was not in my life. In the closing of Bekah Diehl her conclusion that was her fear of baseballs is real and something she has to deal with. However, she takes comfort that her she doesn’t have a phobia of something else and that her phobia could be of something worse.

Thursday, August 15, 2019

Kfc Markting

ESTEL Frame work: In Macro environment there are many factors that will effect the decision making in any organisation. To overcome and analyse these factors organisation can categories it in to PESTLE model which is considered as below. The macro-environmental or external factors of KFC can be identified by using PESTLE analysis which stands for Political, Economic, Social, Technology, Legal and Environmental. Political factors:This factor mainly deals with the government policies and procedures which is worked out through legislation and consists of all legal factors such as How stable is the political environment? Government position on market ethics Government view on culture and religion Government policy on Economy Taxation policy on tax rates and incentives These are some of the political factors that include legal issues, government implementations and define both the formal and informal rules under which the organization must be operated. Economic factor:KFC organization is affected with national and global economic factors such as Cost of labour, Interest and Inflation rates, Economic growth rates, Business cycle stage (e. g. recession, recovery) and Unemployment rates. Due to recession the income of the KFC has consistently dropped down and most of the employees were jobless and the rest employees were employed for very few hours also the organisation had to cut down their budget. Social factor: It includes the cultural and demographic aspects of the external macro environment.The potential of the employees who come from different back grounds and work together in the KFC and customer trends and aspect which the KFC has to consider as per their needs and wants of the customer such as changes in lifestyles, Level of education, Value in society, Demographics (age, sex, race etc. ,) and Change in consumer needs and wants. The U. K people are mostly dependent of the fast food centres as they find very busy with their schedules. Technological factor:This factor is the major driver of globalization which reduces the minimum efficient of production levels and some of the technological factors are recent technological developments, Rate of technology changes, Alternative way of providing services, New discoveries, Communication technology. The technology has now become the most important aspect in KFC as when the customers are mostly delighted and satisfied with service including latest technology that is available in the KFC. The latest Technological methods that are used to serve the customer faster are such as digital screens, wireless headphones for the staff, cooking utensils.Legal factor: The KFC has to maintain the rules and regulations related to the hygiene factors such as like employee proper training regarding the food and safety, personal hygiene, clean work environment and proper use of the utensils. This also deals with the legal environment in which the firms operate like the U. K has come up with the introduction of age discrimination legislation and increase in the minimum wage and greater requirement of recycles. When speaking about the hygiene it’s a very true example were KFC had to bare the high penalty because of failing in maintaining food hygiene. A Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant at the Hernston Business Park in Bridgend has been fined a record ? 24,000 plus costs of ? 2,000 after pleading guilty at Bridgend Magistrates Court to multiple food hygiene offences – the largest penalty handed out to date for such offences in Bridgend County Borough. Bridgend County Borough Council brought two prosecutions against KFC (GB) Ltd resulting from inspections completed by the Public Protection team on 25 September 2005 and 22 May 2006. † Ref: http://www. bridgend. gov. k/web/groups/public/documents/press_release/018326. hcsp http://www. oup. com/uk/orc/bin/9780199296378/01student/additional/page_12. htm Environment factor: KFC by considering the environmental factor has proved t o be quite friendly towards environment where it uses the paper material for the food and services carrying instead of plastic to help in reducing the global warming though it cost very high for the organisation to adopt paper materials such as paper plates, paper boxes for food parcel, glasses and cups etc. 3. The Swot Matrix The SWOT analysis is an extremely useful tool for understanding and decision making for all sorts of situation in KFC organisation. The SWOT is acronym for Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, Threats. SWOT provides a good frame work for reviewing stratergy, position and direction of a company or business proposition. Need an essay? You can buy essay help from us today!

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Burger King Ad Analysis Essay

In June of 2009, Burger King released an advertisement for the â€Å"BK Super Seven Incher† for a limited promotion in Singapore. The sexual message that this ad aims to convey is not so much hidden or subliminal as it is blatantly obvious. Not many would be able to simply glance at this ad and then go about their day. Men and women alike are drawn to the ad because they are either attracted to it or offended by it. Effective advertising usually triggers some kind of powerful emotion within its audience. In that respect, this advertisement succeeds with flying colors. Whether it is because of feelings of disgust or attraction, the images in this ad are difficult to ignore which is exactly what the advertiser envisioned happening. Although very ineffective, this ad is still being analyzed today which is quite significant. Burger King’s advertisement effectively creates and manipulates the narrative, layout, and copy to create a strong reaction to sexism and vulgarity wit hin its audience causing them to only focus on the nature of the ad, not how much they want to buy the product. The ad, through its imagery and text, aims to create a fantasy where all a man has to do is hold a burger and young, attractive women will want to have sex with them. Even if men do not consciously think this way, the idea it is still in the back of their minds. In an attempt to create an effective subtext with these images and words, the ad dehumanizes both men and women. On one hand, the woman in the ad is seen as an object who is only useful in sexual situations — hence the focal point of her face, her mouth which is directly in line with the burger. Many have even noted that the woman resembles a blow-up doll which further solidifies the idea of transforming women into sexual devices rather than human beings. On the other hand, a phallic idea is triggered in a man’s mind that to create the notion that size does matter and this ad presents it as the only thing that really does matter when it comes to attracting a woman. It gives men the impression that if they are no t well endowed, women will disregard them unless they are seen eating this burger. The prominent images of this ad cause the audience to have a strong emotional reaction to the ad whether they know it or not. The portion of the advertisement that first catches the audience’s eye is the image of a stunned, fairly artificial looking woman with her mouth agape to a sandwich that seems to be appearing out of nowhere. The sandwich pictured with the woman also looks much thinner and longer than the one pictured at the bottom. The image of the sandwich next to the woman’s mouth creates obvious phallic visualizations within the audience’s minds. The ad’s blatant allusion to oral sex causes the audience to have a strong reaction upon seeing it. The image suggests that upon eating this sandwich, every adjacent woman will be rendered helpless at the sight of a man holding a seven inch burger. The woman also seems to be looking at something out of frame beyond the sandwich. The mysterious item in the shadows that the woman’s eyes are fixed on adds yet another cue a man could subconsciously get by looking at the ad. This allows a man to conjure up any type of scenario within his mind from only the presence of shadows in the ad. Right below is the second-most prominent part of the ad: the words â€Å"It’ll Blow Your Mind Away† in large font with the two largest words in that sentence being â€Å"It’ll Blow.† The ad tends to two very significant aspects of a young man’s life: food and sex. Food is a basic human need but it is not enough to say that this sandwich will satisfy your hun ger, it must also be able to fulfill another desire. The images of this ad indirectly suggest that the sandwich will cater to a man’s hunger as well as his sexual frustration. Along with the suggestive images this ad presents, the words surrounding the artwork bring an equally as obvious but a much more distasteful idea to the mind. In small font at the bottom it reads: â€Å"fill your desire for something long, juicy and flame-grilled† because we all know that a long cake tastes better than a short one. The fact that the sandwich is seven inches long has little to nothing to do with the quality of the sandwich but rather the visualization that this extra long burger evokes while accompanied with the images. As if that was not enough to make a man go cross-eyed, it goes on to add that the burger will make one â€Å"yearn for more† after one taste. The seemingly endless sexually suggestive elements of this ad just causes it to be mulled over in the minds of men and women alike which adds to its effectiveness not to sell a product but to keep the Burger King name in people’s heads. The name of the product in itself is also something to be considered. Without the imagery of the product it would be unclear as to what is being sold. Only in the small text do you see what this product is actually categorized under — a burger. To someone unfamiliar to this ad, the term â€Å"seven incher† could mean a plethora of items, both sexual and non-sexual. Because of the lack of distinction between food and phallus, the audience gets the wrong (or the right) impression of this product. In describing the burger in further detail, the words â€Å"crispy,† â€Å"thick,† and â€Å"hearty† are used to create the idea that not only will you be attracting women from all over the globe, you will also be buying a top-of-the-line meal for the bargain price of $6.25 — an idea any man would be mesmerized by. One long-running advertisement of a similar product could come to mind when faced with an ad centered upon the size of a sandwich — Subway’s â€Å"Five Dollar Foot Long† campaign. Unlike the Burger King ad, the Subway ad features mainly a catchy jingle and cheery imagery. Subway’s advertisers could have easily gone in the route that Burger King did and made the extra long sandwich sexual. Any company would choose not to sexualize their ads in order to avoid excluding the portion of their audience who would not be attracted to or would even be offended by such graphic images. Subway, instead, used positive and healthy imagery using athletes and generally fit people to advertise their product. In 2008, about the time the campaign for the five dollar sandwich began, the U.S. was faced with a financial crisis. As a result, Subway came up with the campaign of a cheap alternative to healthy food. As a result, a very marketable image of their product was created. A notable difference between Burger King’s ad and Subway’s ad is that the â€Å"BK Super Seven Incher† ad had to be taken down right after the backlash ensued; the everyday â€Å"Five Dollar Foot Long† campaign was sustained until Subway was pushed to increase the price of the sandwich due to inflation. Much like an ad targeted to women of all ages that shows young, thin, energetic girls wearing fashionable clothing, this ad creates false scenarios in the minds of males about a situation that eating this burger will put them in. In the past, the appeals of Burger King ads seemed to be based on humor and were aimed towards a more universal audience. Their ads usually include the advertising mascot of the company, â€Å"The King,† who would often be presented in comical situations. The ad, in no way, alienated any group of people which is why it was kept. The problem in advertising today and particularly in this ad is that companies now allow their products to give off the wrong impression in order to get a rise out of people. Despite its limited release, the unnecessarily sexual nature of the ad sparked much discussion around the world. Not long after the backlash, Burger King officials released a statement expressing that the ad was not created by their principal advertising agency, but by a more independent Singapore agency. Although the ad was taken down shortly thereafter, this does not change the fact that Burger King knew what they were getting themselves into in allowing this ad to be released. Excessively sexualizing a product could mean much negative repercussions for a company. Whether Burger King thought they could sell more sandwiches this way or not, they got the publicity that they were striving for. Although the feedback that they were receiving was extremely negative, it successfully got their name in people’s minds which is considered positive for any company. Burger King, by no accident, released an overly sexual ad that could cause any consumer to think twice. In some cases, sex only sells to a point, then it becomes overkill meaning that the ad could work against them if it is deemed â€Å"too sexual.† Done in the right way, sexual ads are very successful but in those cases the ads are very subtle and usually focus on some kind of subliminal message. Burger King’s target audience who are predominately young males will certainly have a strong reaction to the ad but will most likely not be more inclined to buy the product after seeing it in those terms. This ad is a good example of how shock value gets attention but does not effectively sell a product.

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

How to use R packages to identify differentially expressed genes for a Coursework

How to use R packages to identify differentially expressed genes for a real data set - Coursework Example The data were classified according to the gene expressions before and after application of the drug on patients. However, owing to time constraints, some important operations that would have allowed the analysis to exhibit more of its features were left out. For example the arrays were given a summative test at every level; that is t-tests, ebayes and samr. The arrays would have exhibited more underlying relations if the individual cases were matched against their resultant gene expressions after the administration of the drug. The columns could alternatively have been split up in pairs to come up with several individual files that would allow the execution of singular tests on individual files, thereby making the results even more focused. The only weakness of this approach is the need to further recombine the individual results from the tests, but which can not be addressed by the use of the combined arrays. With more time the tests would also have been described under varying p-values. By varying the p-value, it is possible to know the levels of accuracy that similar tests should be subjected to in future. This sets a crucial precedent especially since same method of study will be repeated for future

Monday, August 12, 2019

Explain How Electronic Recycling will better the environment as a Annotated Bibliography

Explain How Electronic Recycling will better the environment as a whole - Annotated Bibliography Example Alternatively, other new perspectives of comprehending the implications of electronic recycling continue to emerge because of extensive research (Parsons & Oja, 2013). The writers cite military simulations conducted in the US that currently attempt to reduce equipment damage and physical harm to both soldiers and citizens. Overall, this safeguards the environment because a lot of computer materials are recycled for reuse in the facilitation of communication and surveillance unlike the disposal of such electronic gadgets. Similarly, electronic recycling through computer simulation nurtures potential environmentalists concerned with the total protection of their surrounding irrespective of arising costs. In a symposium conducted by environmentalists and scientists, several issues emerged on the successes and failures of electronic recycling. According to (Zhang, 2011), the development of effective recycling techniques has resulted to the proper use of printed circuit boards (PCBs). This means success has been achieved in recovering hazardous soldering materials to assist in leaching studies. In the same perspective, the safe disposal and treatment of PCBs resin has heralded a novel way of recycling electronic materials. Unfortunately, some organizations continue to violate electronic recycling standards and this hampers success in reducing the organic swelling characterized by PCBs.

Best practice review - work based learning Literature

Best practice - work based learning - Literature review Example Recognizing the importance of learning for development and has led to the origination of large number of methodologies. The single objective working behind development of leanings methodologies has been to improving the level of effectiveness.Among various methodologies introduced for the purpose, Work Based Learning is most recognized and accepted one. As the name signifies Work Based Learning refers to the learning that predominantly takes place through work (Garnett, 2001). Learning in work place maintains focus on job. Work based learning is being associated with on job training, skill development and experiential learning that is being provided to the students in the employment environment; hence reducing the gap of between pedagogical learning and work based experiences of learning and doing. Though considerable development is being made on the matter and great variety of models and themes have been devised there is still gap existing between the work-based learning demands as the opportunities facilitated by the workplace to align on same page. Hence, along with development of the field towards success the criticism has also been coming along. REVIEW FROM LITERATURE Eraut and Hirsh (2007) have suggested in contrast to the traditional forma l learning settings; work based learning is accredited with greater knowledge and skill development along with higher level of effectiveness based on the knowledge that is adopted by being part of the work environment . It further refers that strength of the knowledge is developed from responding to the issues originating from pieces of work. Work based learning is not only regarded as the form of combination of theory and practice but at the same time it is conceptual development that has combination of explicit and tacit forms knowledge (Brodie, and Irving, 2007). The combination of the explicit as well as tacit knowledge is further generated from the dual aspects facilitated from the knowledge. Learner in the work b ased learning environment develops tacit and explicit knowledge on both levels of individual as well as collective level as given presented below: (Raelin, 1998) Hence, the combination of the work based learning best practices has to facilitate the combination of these factors in a negotiated combination in order to achieve the effective and robust results (Lester, 2002). Settings; however, may vary with respect to the need of the learner and the facilitator. For instance, the methodology of work based learning that is applied at Middlesex University is of format that has negotiation as critical element. Work based learning in Middlesex University is designed with high level of negotiation between the parties involved such as the learner, the facilitator as well as the employer that provides learning set up. Such negotiated learning results in developing the learner that reflects greater commitment to work and self development. However, the commitment of learners within this format and self development is dependent on the level of motivation provided by the employers; especially in work activities that does not offer learner some level of discretion with respect to decision making as well as authority to take action (Zembylas, 2006). Work based learning settings also offer a distinctive form of learning where learners are provided with conceptual development. The learning is since provided with vocational training therefore the conceptual development is conducted with experiences and reflections (Reeve, and Gallacher, 2005). Further, the concept of action research that facilitates learning with conducting research in order to solve the real world problems is also accepted influential methodology. In the mentioned settings the solution to the problem is more democratic as it is arrived by collaborative discussions on work place or any other structured format that falls in the category of work based learning. Hence, in every context the success is derived from p ragmatic concept of

Sunday, August 11, 2019

PET HOUSE Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

PET HOUSE - Coursework Example This report aims at conducting an analysis of Mungo and Maud with respect to its mission, vision and team structure, along with other factors that may impose considerable effects on its adopted process of New Product Development (NPD). The report also presents a reflection upon the structure, performance, innovation and creativity of Mungo and Maud during the process of NPD with due significance towards the benchmarking techniques used by the company. Vision is a statement about what or how a team would like the things to be. It can be regarded as a brief picture of future possibilities and attainments that the team shall be striving to create in due course of time (Grusenmeyer, 2014). Correspondingly, the vision considered developing the NPD process of Mungo and Maud, and accordingly for the team will be concentrated on preserving the uniqueness of the company and its brand image among the worldwide customers that are suitable for the pets’ comfort. Hence, three key elements will be considered as important in the vision of the team, i.e. uniqueness, quality and availability. A mission statement, in general, can be defined as the strategic direction to achieve the determined goals with proper usage of the available resources, in combination with the pre-defined vision of the team and the organisation (Grusenmeyer, 2014). Accordingly, in the context of Mungo and Maud, the mission of the team will be to ensure that the customers are served with superior quality of products, which are diversified in various market segments and product lines including human clothing and stationeries, pet products and gift items for humans and pets. Moreover, the team will also strive to offer its products in a quality assured by reasonable price to satisfy customer affordability. Team structure is referred as the group of professionals with various

Saturday, August 10, 2019

Explain how the management practices of planning, leading, organizing, Essay

Explain how the management practices of planning, leading, organizing, staffing, and controlling are implemented in your place o - Essay Example Leading – is the process where all the organizations resources, including manpower, are effectively led towards the fulfillment of the stated objective. It includes motivating the people to optimize their performances. Organizing – determines the tasks that need to be done to achieve the stated objectives and goals. The organization’s structure is also defined at this stage where functions can be effectively dispensed and to establish who decides what. Staffing - is the stage or process of determining the personnel who can do the job best. It also involves the determination of how many people are required for a task to be accomplished. Controlling – is the tool where management can measure its actual performance compared to the intended plan. Through controlling, management is enabled to apply corrective measure if there is a deviation in performance vis-a-vis intended plan. II. How are these principles implemented in the workplace? I used to work in a sta rt up fast food chain and was involved in setting up of its new branch. I was a new employee and was assigned to tag along the branch manager and was asked to perform as a support system to the setting up of the new branch. My functions then are not clearly defined as I was involved in almost all aspect of the business but it gave me an insight on the different aspect of management. It gave me an idea that running a business is both a science and art where there are principles that needs to implemented and also tools to be used for the successful management of a business enterprise. The first stage: Planning Before going to the actual site, and doing anything the manager first planned on what to do and how do we intend to things. From what I recall, the objectives must be first established as a core part of planning. In our case, the first and most important objective is to make the store operational in three months within a specified budget. Schedules were then established along wi th commensurate tasks that need to be performed for the objective to be realized. Management tools were employed such as the Gantt chart, Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) and Critical Path Method (CPM) to ensure that everything will go on schedule to realize the objective of opening the store in three months (Gomez-Mejia, 2002). The planning stage took a while because it involved several studies to determine on how some functions can be done with a smaller budget and shorter period of time. Example for this is the consideration on how the physical be set up at a lesser cost. Leading When the objectives were already clearly defined and the tasks needed to accomplish were already enumerated, the Branch Manager, has to pull its human resources together and direct our efforts and energy towards the fulfillment of tasks on schedule. In addition of clearly defining what needs to be done in a specific time-frame to accomplish our objectives, the Branch Manager also motivated his people by giving favorable write-ups and small incentives if we accomplish tasks within the stated time-frame (Gray, 2008). Organizing After defining the tasks involved on how to accomplish our objective, tasks were then specifically assigned to each employee where we are responsible for its completion. Task varies after the completion of each task and is usually time bound. The branch manager had to check time to time to ensure that each one of us is within schedule and that there is no duplication of work to

Friday, August 9, 2019

ASP.NET and the three tier architecture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

ASP.NET and the three tier architecture - Essay Example The user interface or the front end of the website with all the static and dynamic pages that are visible to the end user is the presentation layer. The presentation layer can be developed as soon as the design of the website has been finalized. The HTML (HyperText Markup Language) pages and the CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) are coded to develop the template for the front end (Ramirez, 2000). It is essential that this layer is user – friendly and has a simple and effective set of navigation rules. The presentation layer just displays the data to the end user and it never communicates directly with the database. The business layer has the business logic for the website operations. It can also be said that the data for the dynamic sections of the template are rendered by the business layer and also the user inputs are validated and processed by the business layer. The business layer acts as a mediator between the data layer and the presentation layer (Mitchell, 2006). The business logic for the operation of the web application resides in the business layer. By having the entire business logic in a separate layer, it is every effective to modify the logic in this layer and the content gets modified in the presentation layer automatically at all necessary locations. The data layer interacts with the database using stored procedures and queries to retrieve or store data in the database. The data is returned to the business layer which then processes the data and passes it on to the presentation layer accordingly. By separating the data layer, it is very simple to create functions (in this case, stored procedure) once and use them at all required places in the business layer. This reduces the code repetition to a great extent and also makes the code maintenance process very efficient. It is clear that the various parts of the functions of a client – server architecture have

Thursday, August 8, 2019

Kikujiro and Kitano Movies Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Kikujiro and Kitano Movies - Movie Review Example Indeed, as a follow up to his most notable work "Hana-bi," or "Fireworks," this film seems to have gone unnoticed for the most part because of its veering toward the usual Disney-like story of a crabby old man hitting the road with a dejected kid, but then, we're talking about Kitano. He was able to make the movie look fresh, original, and even surprising. He was also able to show that his works shouldn't be stereotyped at all to the yakuza films he made, which are filled with "juxtapositions of life and death, ugly violence and beautiful serenity - and usually end bleakly with suicide." The movie may be looked into as somewhat having two unique parts, with the first part the more gilt-edged portion. The first half focuses on the journey for the most part. The audience follow the seemingly incompatible pair through various risky adventures such as when they hitchhiked and raced among cyclists. Everything else that happen afterwards has its foundation on the search for Masao's estranged mother in another part of Japan and surprisingly brings on laughs. The second part isn't that quite spectacular though. ... The result is that some scenes became a drag to some because of repetitive scenes of adults acting like children such as when Kikujiro forms an assorted crew of misfits to play with Masao and have them dress up as aliens, Indians, marine life and even watermelons. Nevertheless, with Kitano's concept of building a friendship between the most unlikely of people, it really makes for an admirable and interesting story. It is also interesting to note that Masao's scrapbook seems to provide the structure for the movie giving each chapter a fair description. Each chapter offers a well-defined character that is, in different turns, hilarious, playful, surreal, disturbing, and heartbreaking. For one, Kitano is bold enough to use a child molester as an unlikely source of black humor and subject of any child's nightmare. The variations in tone between the chapters help in orchestrating unexpected tonal shifts and works to add to the context of the story. The theme: Alienation and inclusion Kitano was also able to look into the theme of both alienation and inclusion in his very own Japanese society. In fact, the two main characters, and even most of those who help the duo along their journey, can all be considered as unwanted by the society as they were not really a part of any conventional family or group structure. The characters, on the other hand, who live a more unquestioned lifestyles are frequently conflicting with the movie's protagonists. At the onset of the story, Kikujiro reacts to their alienation with anger while the nine-year old Masao with sadness. But along their expedition, they begin to discover similarities between themselves and the circumstances in Toyohashi become a turning point for the protagonists to