Thursday, December 26, 2019

The Legacy Of The Native Americans - 906 Words

Our history is written by the winners of the bloody, and merciless battles that shaped our country. The hate that has slaughtered thousands of people, is also the hate that has made our country the beautiful tragedy it is today. We all know the history of how Christopher Columbus came to the native land, named the people here indians because he thought he was in the Indi mountains and brought disease and colonists to the land to make it part of spain. What is usually left out of our history is just how brutal living at that time really was, and just how much we abused the Native Americans to get what we wanted. The true history of the native americans is no longer taught in schools, they no longer teach about the native americans and what they went through from being invaded, tricked, slaughters and finally removed from their own land. The first genocide in america was the Native Americans, they were pushed from their homes and forced to fight or die for their ancestral lands. Even though the natives were mostly friendly and willing to become acquainted with the new settlers they were soon pushed out and slaughtered. One of the last real resistance acts came in 1812 when congress declared war on great britain, Tecumseh, A famous Native American warrior, lead an act of defiance with his confederacy and sided with the british to try and push out the settlers. According to John Sugden, author of Ohio History â€Å"Tecumseh led a group of raiders in these efforts, attackingShow MoreRelatedShould The Washington Redskins Be Allowed? Keep Their Mascot Name?874 Words   |  4 Pagesthough but the 2,129 other teams with a mascot with Native American association. People have been taking both sides and some believe it’s racist, while others argue the legacy and history tied with the name. Others even claim that the name is not really referencing native Americans at all. Which brings me to my question should the Washington Redskins be allowed to keep their mascot name? Academic Summary #1 The article, â€Å"The 2,128 Native American Mascots People Aren t Talking About† written by HayleyRead MoreEssay On Columbus Day1399 Words   |  6 Pageswhich many people will follow during colonization: to conquer and enslave the people and the land for golds and richest. We as Americans celebrate Columbus Day to remember the achievements that Columbus has done. However, we shouldn’t celebrate Columbus Day because of what Columbian legacy left a negative impact in our history and that the Spaniards treated the natives poorly during their colonization to gain gold and silver. In the past, we conquer lands while enslaving those who live theRead MoreWorld Wars And The Great Depression1262 Words   |  6 PagesI’m amazed at how many Americans don’t know their own family heritage any further back than their grandparents. For many years, I was one of them. I would casually tell people, â€Å"My family never really talked much about our family tree, because we were afraid we’d find horse thieves hanging from the branches.† But, bad or good, I always wondered about my roots. I’m not alone. Millions of Americans have the same questions. So, what happened? Were so many of our families separated in the westwardRead MoreHistory of US Land Development1390 Words   |  6 Pagesthe New World. The Natives reciprocated this â€Å"favor†, by introducing the Europeans to many of their own crops, which fed large population growths in both the Old World and in Africa. In addition to crops and animals, the Europeans (unintentionally) spread many of their diseases to the native population. Without any natural defense, ninety percent of the native population was killed. Although the Europeans weren’t as heavily affected by foreign diseases as the Native Americans were, they certainlyRead MoreMascots : It s More Than Mascot Status1678 Words   |  7 Pagessignifying the main ideas behind an organizational mascot. It s more than mascot status when there is far more concept to the image it used. Even though Native American Mascots are very offensive toward the tribal nations, Indian Mascots should be viewed with hono r and pride toward the team s franchise where by like animal themed mascots, Native mascots are to be viewed with equality as other teams that promote the spirit and effort of the team organization. A mascot is any individual, animal, orRead MoreChristopher Columbus : A False Narrative For Americans1282 Words   |  6 PagesChristopher Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492 and â€Å"discovered† North America. This common misconception creates a false narrative for Americans learning about Christopher Columbus’ legacy - and indeed about the country’s early post-European history. When Christopher Columbus came ashore, North America was already inhabited by hundreds of thousands of native peoples so the concept of Christopher Columbus somehow â€Å"discovering† what is now the United States of America is inaccurate. He did, howeverRead MoreThe Legacy Of Christopher Columbus1390 Words   |  6 Pagespeople in the US have mixed historical and traditional in terpretation about the legacy of Christopher Columbus. The history of the famous explorer has been rewritten many times. He was one of the first of many Europeans to land in the New World. He is an Italian explorer whose discovery of the New World— Caribbean– with his crewmen marked the beginning of decades of colonization and trans-Atlantic invasion on the American soil. Columbus sighted the New World, as he intended to sail west hoping to reachRead MoreEnglish View Of Native Americans During Early Nineteenth Century981 Words   |  4 PagesEnglish view of Native Americans in early seventeenth-century According to the English, Native Americans in early seventeenth century Virginia left an imprint on the New England earth. They traditionally settled near water and in small groups, and not in a larger population. They also made little benefit of their land, being never fertile. The English settlers were very taken at the fact they didn’t use the land to the best it could be used. They were tall, brown and proportionate appearanceRead MoreNative American Paper1353 Words   |  6 PagesNative American Storytelling Paper Rashmi Price ENG/301 August 26, 2013 Dr. Gregory Beatty Native American Storytelling Paper Native American literature is considered by many as the traditional written and oral literature of Native cultures around the world. Many of these literatures are transmitted over periods of time by storytellers. This particular literature has many features that includes a mixture of oral tradition techniques along with tribal mythology. The majorityRead MoreGeorge Washington On Legacies Left1646 Words   |  7 PagesIf someone were to write an essay on legacies left by a certain person, George Washington would top the list. George Washington was the first President of the United States of America and he did a stellar job. George Washington was one of the reasons we have the freedoms embodied by Americans still to this day. He did not have a particularly easy childhood but he powered through it. There are so many people who spend their lives complaining but do not do anything to change the situation while George

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Music And Its Effect On Life - 1733 Words

Music, a vocal or instrumental sound (sometimes both) combined in a way that produces beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion or some might say the art or skills of creating or performing a piece. A favorite song is probably your favorite because it is associated with an emotional event in your life (Music). Over the years, music has drastically altered and has become very different from what it used to be. There was once a purpose, but as time progressed, it is sad to say the importance or significance is basically gone. Music is said to have begun during the time of the cavemen it was the grunts, groans, and whines that created the soul sound that would eventually become something so beautiful and unique. They began by hitting rocks and logs and soon after language was formed, and their voices became one with the instruments (N.A.). Now within each time period, music made more of an impact and established a distinctive sound. From Medieval to Renaissance, to the Baroque, Classical and the Romantic period each individual time span brought more to the meaning of what music really is. An emotional connection that could change a person mood in an instant. A sound that allowed anyone to connect with not only the words but also the instruments as well. As music evolved during the 1900 s more genres were created, for example, ragtime, big band, jazz, blues, hip-hop, etc. (N.A., Music History). Now today s compositions tend to bring out the worst in this particularShow MoreRelatedMusic And Its Effect On Life1167 Words   |  5 PagesWhen younger, music was simply something fun that passed time, but as soon as the song ended and the music stopped, that was is. Music had little significance to me. As I started to grow older I came to realize the value music has on oneself and the emotions it can trigger. It can light up a mood, expresses feelings, calm you down, and most importantly, be nostalgic. Music has the power to bring back important memories and moments, and often the people you shared them with. These memories come withRead MoreThe Effect Of Music On The Mind Of Life1035 Words   |  5 Pages The Effect of Music Music is the artistic form of auditory communication incorporating instrumental or vocal tones in a structured and continuous manner through rhythm, melody, and harmony. To many people, music is a way of life. It has become a big factor in most cultures and in society. Most people feel stronger than others in a discussion of music. The influence of music can affect the ways of the mind, the brain, and mood of a human. The interconnection between the music and theRead MoreMusic And Its Effect On Human Life894 Words   |  4 PagesSince always, music has been an important aspect in human culture because it has many applications and uses in human life. It is consider that music plays an important role to human beings, and it is reflect in many different ways. In medicine, music takes a significant part because it can be used to improve human health and life quality; for example, music can helps to reduce stress, cure illness, or produce happiness. Also, it is known that music can have great impact during pregnancy, or it canRead MoreMusic Therapy And Its Effect On The Quality Of A Person s Life1802 Words   |  8 PagesMusic therapy has the ability to change lives in a very powerful way, and science has shown us that it can have a positive effect on the quality of a person’s life. Music therapy is a healthcare practice that utilizes clinical and evidence-based music therapy methods to addres s stress, wellness, pain, physical rehabilitation, and to improve a person’s quality of life. It can have a significantly positive effect on people—physically and emotionally. While the earliest known mention of music beingRead MoreMusic Therapy On Quality Of Life1549 Words   |  7 Pagesreview, I posed two research questions. Firstly, does Music Therapy in general improve perceived quality of life? And secondly, does evidence exist that rhythm related interventions are successful in improving health and perceived quality of life? Upon investigating whether Music Therapy generally improves perceived quality of life, I found five studies that clearly affirm that it does. In â€Å"Effects of Live Music Therapy Sessions on Quality of Life Indicators, Medications Administered and Hospital LengthRead MoreInformative Speech : Reference Of Music By Gretel Herrera1124 Words   |  5 Pagesreference to Music by Gretel Herrera General Purpose: To Inform Specific Purpose: At the end of my speech, the audience we will learn the importance of music in our lives and the benefits associated with listen to music to our health and development of our brain. Thesis: Music is an important and rewarding part of our lives and is essential to the development of a child’s brain and to keep a healthy body. I. Introduction A. Attention Getter: Today I am going to talk about music. We can say thatRead MoreHow Has Classical Music Changed the World1724 Words   |  7 PagesCLASSICAL MUSIC CHANGED THE WORLD How has classical music changed the world we live in? The world we live in has changed but Classical music has remained the same. Classical music isn’t really prevalent in today’s society. Classical music doesn’t appeal to this generation. Classical music is more appreciated by older generations. Classical Music is not as popular today as it used to be. It has been around for hundreds of years and it is the oldest type of music out there. Classical music is veryRead MoreHow Music Has An Effect On The Human Brain1561 Words   |  7 PagesDonald A. Hodges and Robin W. Wilkins, two professors of music education at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro have done research and wrote about their findings as it relates to how and why music has an effect on the human brain, in an article entitled How and Why Does Music Move Us?: Answers from Psychology and Neuroscience. In the article they go over the technique used to examine the brain’s interconnect ivity as people listen to music. This technique is called Network Science. They writeRead MoreYjt Task 11224 Words   |  5 Pagesis to persuade my audience that music can be used to help with stress as well as pain.   I want my audience to see that the use of music in everyday life is good for the mind, body and soul.   My central idea is that music is what can be used in the medical field as therapy use for pain, stress relief and in everyone’s everyday life. Intended Audience: My ideal audience for this speech would be those of any age that will be willing to try the power of music.   The topic would also be beneficialRead MoreMusic Is The Most Influential Real Life Application Of Music Psychology971 Words   |  4 PagesMusic is an ancient and universal practice regarded as a form of expression and emotional communication (Levitin Tirovolas, 2009). It is therefore assumed a degree of musicianship is biologically guaranteed in humans; we are likely to either actively participate in the production of music or passively listen to it (Wilson, 1987). Music psychology aims to explain musical behaviour through the understanding of various cognitive processes including perception, performance and memory (Tan, Pfordresher

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Elements of Cinematography Demonstrate †Free Samples to Students

Question: Discuss about the Elements of Cinematography Demonstrate. Answer: Introduction In the Mood for love, is a romantic drama film written and directed by Wong Kar- Wai with the cinematography being conducted by Pin Bing Lee and Christopher Doyle (In The Mood For Love by Wong Kar Wai with English Subtitle). The film follows two key characters as they learn about the unfaithfulness of their spouses and find comfort in each other. However, their expressions of intimacy are confined because of societal norms. The melodrama in the film is not presented in the classic sense, despite the fact that it is an exercise on demonstrating the different faces of love. This is evident in the fact that the director does not probe into the lives of the characters or attempt to question their motives; instead he just observes using the camera to follow the characters without judging. The cinematographers of the film utilize a very distinct manner of conveying intensity and emotions of the characters. In the film the author manages to effectively utilize cultural background in creatin g aspects of cinematography and mise-en-scene that exhibit what the characters are unable to. This paper reviews how elements of mise-en-scene and cinematography are used to express what the characters in the film cannot. From the onset of the film, elements of cinematography are used to demonstrate aspects of restricted freedom for the characters. This is witnessed in the manner in which the characters are framed. The two main characters are usually portrayed in a narrow hallway that was along the apartments corridor. This portrayal served to represent the restricted freedom that Mrs. Chan and Mr. Chow (the two leading characters) had to face in the apartments (In The Mood For Love by Wong Kar Wai with English Subtitle). The aspect of being trapped is also demonstrated in the scene under the shed when it is raining. In this scene, the bars are made noticeable to reflect the fact that being married, both the two characters were trapped in their marriages. It is reflected in the bedroom scene when Mrs. Chan is ceremoniously changing her shoes before going to bed serving to demonstrate the fact that she felt she was trapped in her marriage. An aspect of brilliant cinematography is depicted in the placemat of the camera as Su opens the window of the apartment house she intends to rent. The camera is placed outside the window of the room and as the windows are open it conveys an aspect of voyeurism as the audience is invited to have a look inside the room. It is also important to note that the room is highly decorated with a number of flowery motifs. These are used to reflect the traditional values that were embraced by Chinese women during the early 1960s. This determination is based in the fact that wall motifs can be traced back to the Jade era when the country started to embrace decorations in most of their objects. The culture of motifs was brought into Hong Kong as refugees from mainland China fled the communist regime. The shooting of significant portions of the film by one lens serves to enhance the depth of the audience. This helps to avoid the noticeable distortion perspectives thereby providing a smooth transition between the different shots. By doing this the cinematographers provide the audience with the feeling of being in the same room with the two protagonists. The cinematographers utilize the telephoto lens in shooting close-ups that are tightly framed. This serves to convey the quality associated with personal encounter and in doing so enhance the anxiety projected by the film. A key major aspect of cinematography that is depicted in the film is the use of tracking shots in ensuring a seamless transition between the different spaces (Barsam, and Dave 41). A clear example of this is seen when Su and Chow are in their individual apartments and the cinematographers utilize tracking shot to slide between the two spaces. Lighting also played a significant role in establishing the emotions that the filmmaker wished to project through the film. The director accentuates the melodrama that is associated with the protagonists through the use of low-key lighting. This is a technique that relies heavily on the use of a single light source in the production of an image in which a significant percentage of the screen is in the shadow (Barsam, and Dave 67). An example of this is seen in the scene with Mr. Chow walking up the apartments staircase that is dimly-lit. In this scene, low-key lighting is used to demonstrate the emptiness of the characters life. The next scene starts with the camera zooming out from a ceiling light thereby providing a contrasting mood between the two scenes. The use of high key lighting in this scene is to suggest that there is a sense of hope for Mr. Chow as he is going to met Su who will be his solace. In the last scene where the two protagonists say their final words to each other before they part ways, the backlighting had been placed in various angles thereby creating silhouettes which were used to express the inner torment of the characters. The wall separating the two apartments is used to demonstrate the separation between the two characters. However, it is also evident that as the two characters lean on opposite sides of the wall, it acts as a connector that symbolizes the solace the two found in one another and a form of complicity. The two characters desire to be together but they are faced with a number of factors which act as barrier to them forming a relationship. The wall is used as a symbolism of the barriers ( the fact that they are both married and societal practices) separating them. The shot of the films opening scene demonstrates a partial view of a wall and a lady in her middle ages providing a sense of mystery for the audience as the rest of the house is obscured. One also notices the consistent lack of strong shadow contrast. This depiction serves to allude to the level of mystery that is contained in the film before it even commences. It achieves this by producing a dramatic effect where images from the background that could have completed for the attention of the viewer are eliminated and focus is only on the main characters. By doing so it serves to efficiently prepare the audience for the mystery contained in the film. This is achieved by drawing attention to the light and the objects eliminated by it. The cinematographers also utilize medium close-up during the chats between Mrs. Chan and Mr. Chow to establish a sense of complicity between the two characters. The complecity between the two is evident when Mr. Chow moves into a hotel room so that the two can see each other without any worries on what the other people are saying. It is also evident in Mr. Chow offering Mrs. Chan an opportunity to help him a series of martial art papers. This opportunity provides for them to spend time together. The brilliance of utilizing cinematography to bring out the aspect of complicity in the film is also seen in the type of shots taken when Mr. Chow is whispering through the hole. In this scene, the film utilizes high angle shots to depict Mr. Chows vulnerability and the fact that he has no control over the societal status of his love for Mrs. Chan. Mise-en-scene is used to depict the aspect of complicity in the film through the presentation of the main characters. Through an analysis of the film, it is evident that most of the shots depicting the two main characters are taken behind objects like a curtain, door, and a plant. This serves to demonstrate the inescapable relationship that the two characters have with their spouses who are unfaithful to them and the level of complicity between them. It also serves to demonstrate the fact that there relationship is not open and that they have to hide it from the general public. Mise-en-scene is used to effectively demonstrate the rime period represented by the film. This is seen in the actors consumes. The costumes were inspired by 1960s Hong Kong where people used to abide by societal set standards of proper decorum for women and couples was regarded as a virtue. Other than the costumes, the make-up was also used to draw emphasis to the human figures and aid to the trait of how well mannered the leading female actor was. The make-up heavily focused on the face of the lady and consisted largely of bright colors. The director also manages to integrate the cheongsams which have been intricately designed are an embodiment of the cultural shift that occurred in Hong Kong between the early late 1950s and the late 1960s as Chinese emigrants flooded the Island as they escaped the Communist Revolution. The immigrants brought with them distinct elements of Chinese culture and Cheongsam become quite popular in Hong Kong being regarded as a form of metaphoric misc-en-scene. The cheongsams design is also used to symbolize the emotional journey of Mrs. Chan as she transitions from a state of emptiness to that of subtle bliss ( when being comforted by Chan). This is evident in the cheongsam changing from the plain flowery motifs that is seen in the opening scene of modern patterns that are more flamboyant (In The Mood For Love by Wong Kar Wai with English Subtitle.). Conclusion Through an analysis of the film, it is also evident that it maintains a monotonous consistent color palette that is altered only by the occasional inclusion of the color red in forms of Mrs. Chow's costume and the curtains. One should also note that Sus red outfit serves the purpose of bringing out the sexual tension that exists between the two protagonists. Every night as before going to bed, the camera would focus on Mrs. Chan as she ceremoniously transitions from one footwear to another (In The Mood For Love by Wong Kar Wai with English Subtitle). This is indicative of a mask used to hide her feelings of despair with regards to her husband who was unfaithful. From the discussion provided, it is evident that the film director managed to effectively utilize different elements of mise-en-scene and cinematography to bring out the different elements of the film that the characters are for one reason or another unable to do. By focusing on the protagonists the director also managed to ensure that the melodrama depicted in the film was in line with the storyline of the film. Work Cited Barsam, Richard, and Dave Monahan.Looking at movies. WW Norton Company, 2015. In The Mood For Love by Wong Kar Wai with English Subtitle. YouTube, YouTube, 15 Feb. 2014, www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0Q1bHqQT0E. Accessed 1 Oct. 2017

Monday, December 2, 2019

Rooms division assignment free essay sample

Introduction The aim of these assignments are to assess the outcome of students’ learning in terms of knowledge acquired, understanding developed and skills or abilities gained in relation to achieve the learning outcomes (LO) and assessment criteria with reference to grade descriptors (i. e. M and D). The unit examines the role of the rooms division within the management of a hospitality operation, the operational elements that comprise the rooms division and how these are deployed by management to maximise both occupancy and rooms revenue. Learners will gain understanding of the role of the front office as the ‘nerve centre’ of customer activity with network communication links within and to other departments. They will also gain understanding of the management of housekeeping services. Learners will be able to identify trends and technologies which impact on rooms division operations and effectively utilise a computerised operating system within the rooms division. Main Assignment Tasks Learning outcome 1 You are a trainee manager who has been asked by his manager to prepare a short induction presentation to ensure that newly recruited staff understands services provided by the rooms division in diverse contexts. We will write a custom essay sample on Rooms division assignment or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page TASK 1 (AC1. 1 ) Produce 15-20 power point slides that detail accommodation AND front office services for at least two organisations. (Examples of front office services) Housekeeping and maintenance Decoration and furnishings Refurbishment Accommodation environment and occupancy Guest services and supplies Linen services and laundry Cleaning services Environmental issues You will need supporting notes describing accommodation and front office services. Provide real industry examples where possible and make sure you reference your sources of information. Please submit a hard copy of your presentation and notes by the xx/xx/2013. Please also include these with your final report. TASK 2 (AC1. 2) Produce a table outlining the roles and responsibilities of Accommodation and Reception Services staff using as an example of a specific company. Accommodation Staff Reception Service Staff Company 1 – Roles Responsibilities Roles Responsibilities Notes should support your tables Give clear references to sources of information. Please submit a hard copy of the table and notes by xx/xx/2013. Please also include the table with your final report. TASK 3 (AC1. 3) Discuss the legal and statutory requirements in relation to the room’s division operations. (Examples of legal and statutory requirements) Health and Safety Hazardous substances Protective clothing Consumer law Price tariff and display Data protection Immigration (hotel records) Give clear references to sources of information. TASK 4 (AC 1. 4) Evaluate services provided by the rooms division in a range of hospitality businesses (Examples of different businesses) Hospitality businesses Hotel Restaurant University campus Learning outcome 2 TASK 2. 1 Assess the importance of the front of house area to effective management. The areas that are important to effective management include: Business/Department plans Operations POS management Night audit Use of technology Controlling and updating front-of-house-services Health and Safety Consumer and data protection Pricing. TASK 2. 2 Discuss the key aspects of planning and management of the front of house area for a given hospitality operation. Company 1 – Key Aspects Importance to planning and management Some of these should include: Visual impacts First impressions Design and layout Zoning Ambience Colour Flowers/Plants Heating Lighting Security TASK 2. 3 Critically discuss the key operational issues affecting the effective management and business performance of the front office area for a given operation Examples of front office area operations: Services – Rooms related Concierge Information Sales Administration Operational Issues – Financial Sales Marketing Human resources, quality, customer Learning outcome 3 1. Assess the importance of property interiors and design to effective management using a specific company (AC3. 1). Business departmental plans, operations and procedures Interior design in terms of visual impact, ambience, ratings, cost Access to mobility within interior, fabrics/furnishings/fittings Space, lighting, heating, effect of colour, flows plants 2. Discuss the critical aspects of planning and management of the accommodation service function for a given hospitality operation (AC3. 2) To include the bedrooms, function rooms, meeting, staff, public) Linen and laundry, cleaning, leisure areas, waste management, use of technology, health and safety, consumer and building regulations, evaluating and controlling rooms services. 3. Analyse the key operational issues affecting the effective management and business performance of the accommodation service function for a given operation. (AC3. 3) Financial Marketing Human resources Quality and Customer Learning outcome 4 4. Performance revenue/yield management activities to maximise occupancy and rooms revenue. (AC4. 1) Revenue/Yield management, forecast methodology, perishability cycle Distribution channels, price discrimination different rates and tariff structures to maximise occupancy Inventory management including the use of booking horizons to maximise yield, advantages and disadvantages of yield management. Hotel internet marketing including viral marketing 5. Discuss the sales techniques that room division staff can use to promote and maximise revenue. (AC4. 2) Tariff structures, market based pricing, negotiated sales, (delegate, seasonal and corporate packages) Use of overbooking policy, sales leads, referrals, selling other services, Up-selling, repeat business, customer loyalty scheme, source of bookings, central reservations, agents. 6. Discuss the purpose and use of forecasting and statistical data within the rooms division. (AC4. 3) Comparison of actual data to projected, formulation of marketing and pricing policy, Operational and financial reports. 7. Calculate room division performance indicators to measure the success of accommodation and sales. (AC4. 4) Front office performance indicators (room occupancy %, sleeper %, double/twin occupancy %, average room rate, and average sleeper %. Achievement of Pass, Merit and Distinction Grade Achievement of a Pass grade: A pass grade is achieved by meeting all the requirements defined in the assessment criteria for pass for each unit. Achievement of a merit grade To achieve a merit grade you must achieve a pass grade and also your essay/assignment/coursework demonstrates your abilities and skills in the following areas: M1identify and apply strategies to find appropriate solutions M2select/design and apply appropriate methods/ techniques M3present and communicate appropriate findings On successful completion of these assignments learners will achieve the following learning outcomes: Grade Descriptors and indicative characteristics Achievement of Pass, Merit and Distinction Grades 1. Achievement of Pass Grade A Pass grade is achieved by learner on meeting all the minimum requirements defined in the assessment criteria for each unit. 2. Achievement of Merit Grade To achieve a Merit grade learner must achieve a pass grade and also his/her essay/assignment/coursework demonstrate his/her abilities and skills in the following areas: M1: Identify and apply strategies to find appropriate solutions. Effective judgements have been made Complex problems with more than one variable have been explored An effective approach to study and research has been applied M2: Select/design and apply appropriate methods/techniques. Relevant theories have been applied A range of methods and techniques have been applied A range of sources of information have been used The selection of methods and techniques/sources have been justified The design of methods/techniques have been justified Complex information/data have been synthesised and processed Appropriate learning methods/techniques have been applied M3: Present and communicate appropriate findings. The appropriate structure and approach has been used Coherent, logical development of principles/concepts for the intended audience A range of methods of presentation have been used Technical language has been accurately used Communication has been taken place in familiar and unfamiliar contexts The communication is appropriate for familiar and unfamiliar audiences and appropriate media have been used 3. Achievement of Distinction Grade To achieve a Distinction grade learner must achieve a merit grade and also his/her essay/assignment/coursework demonstrate his/her abilities and skills in the following areas: D1: Use critical reflection to evaluate own work and justify valid conclusions. Conclusions have been arrived at through synthesis of ideas and have been justified The validity of results has been evaluated using defined criteria Self-criticism of approach has taken place Realistic improvements have been proposed against defined characteristics for sucess D2: Take responsibility for managing and organising activities. Autonomy/independence has been demonstrated Substantial activities, projects or investigations have been planned, managed and organised Activities have been managed The unforeseen has been accommodated The importance of interdependence has been recognised and achieved D3: Demonstrate convergent/lateral/creative thinking. Ideas have been generated and decisions taken Self-evaluation has taken place Convergent and lateral thinking have been applied Problems have been solved Innovation and creative thought have been applied Receptiveness to new ideas is evident Effective thinking has taken place in unfamiliar contexts Plagiarism and Collusion Any act of plagiarism and collusion will be seriously dealt with according to the regulations. In this context the definition and scope of plagiarism are presented below: ‘Plagiarism occurs when a student misrepresents, as his/her own work, the work, written or otherwise, of any other person (including another student) or of any institution. Examples of forms of plagiarism include: the verbatim (word for word) copying of another’s work without appropriate and correctly presented acknowledgement; the close paraphrasing of another’s work by simply changing a few words or altering the order of presentation, without appropriate and correctly presented acknowledgement; unacknowledged quotation of phrases from another’s work; The deliberate and detailed presentation of another’s concept as one’s own. ’ All types of work submitted by students are covered by this definition, including, written work, diagrams, designs, engineering drawings and pictures. ‘Collusion occurs when, unless with official approval (e. g. in the case of group projects), two or more students consciously collaborate in the preparation and production of work which is ultimately submitted by each in an identical, or substantially similar, form and/or is represented by each to be the product of his or her individual efforts. Collusion also occurs where there is unauthorised co-operation between a student and another person in the preparation and production of work which is presented as the student’s own. (ibid)’ Extension and Late Submission If an extension is necessary for a valid reason, requests can me made using a course work extension request form available from the college. Please note that the lecturers do not have the authority to extend the coursework deadlines and therefore do not ask them to award a coursework extension. The completed form must be accompanied by evidence such as a medical certificate in the event of being sick. Support Material

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Legal and Regulation essays

Legal and Regulation essays Asbestos means any of the following fibrous silicates: actinolite, amosite, anthophyllite, chrysotle, crocidolite or tremolite; fibre means a fibre of asbestos that is more than five micrometres in length and less than three micrometres in width and that has a length to width ratio not less than three to one as viewed in a phase contrast optical microscope at for hundred to five hundred magnification; joint health and safety committee includes a joint health and safety committee includes a joint health and safety committee established under section 9 of the Act, a committee of like nature and the workers or their representatives who participate in an arrangement, program or system conforming to subsection 9 (4) of the Act. Regulation applies, to every employer operating a mine or mining plant for the purpose of mining, crushing, grinding or sifting asbestos and to those workers of such an employer who are likely to inhale or ingest asbestos; to every employer processing, adapting or using asbestos in connection with the manufacturing or assembling of goods or products and to those workers of such an employer who are likely to inhale or ingest asbestos; and to every employer, engaged in the repair, alteration or maintenance of machinery, equipment, aircraft, ships, locomotives, railway cars and vehicles and to those workers of such an employer who are likely to inhale or ingest asbestos, engaged in work on a building that is necessarily incidental to the repair, alteration or maintenance of machinery or equipment and those workers of such an employer who are likely to inhale or ingest asbestos. An employer to whom this Regulation applies shall take every precaution reasonable in the circumstan ces to ensure that every worker who is not an employer and who works in the workplace of the employer is protected and every worker shall comply with the requirements of the employer. ...

Saturday, November 23, 2019

The Definition and Description of Geological Erosion

The Definition and Description of Geological Erosion Erosion is the name for the processes that both break down rocks (weathering) and carry away the breakdown products (transportation). As a general rule, if rock is just broken down through mechanical or chemical means, then weathering has occurred. If that broken-down material gets moved at all by water, wind or ice, then erosion has occurred.   Erosion is different from  mass wasting, which refers to the downslope movement of rocks, dirt, and regolith primarily through gravity. Examples of mass wasting are  landslides, rockfalls,  slumps,  and soil creep. Erosion, mass wasting, and weathering are classified as separate actions and often discussed individually. In reality, they are overlapping processes that usually act together.   The physical processes of erosion are called corrasion or mechanical erosion, while the chemical processes are called corrosion or chemical erosion. Many examples of erosion include both corrasion and corrosion. Agents of Erosion The agents of erosion are ice, water, waves, and wind. As with any natural process that takes place on the Earths surface, gravity plays a major role as well. Water is perhaps the most important (or at least most visible) agent of erosion. Raindrops strike the surface of the Earth with enough force to break apart soil in a process known as splash erosion. Sheet erosion occurs as water collects on the surface and moves toward small streams and rivulets, removing a widespread, thin layer of soil along the way. Gully and rill erosion occurs as runoff becomes concentrated enough to remove and transport larger amounts of soil. Streams, depending on their size and speed, can erode away banks and bedrock and transport large pieces of sediment.   Glaciers erode through abrasion and plucking. Abrasion occurs as rocks and debris become embedded on the bottom and sides of a glacier. As the glacier moves, the rocks scour and scratch the surface of the Earth. Plucking takes place when meltwater enters cracks in the rock beneath a glacier. The water refreezes and breaks off large pieces of rock, which are then transported by glacial movement. U-shaped valleys  and  moraines  are visible reminders of the awesome erosive (and depositional) power of glaciers.   Waves cause erosion by cutting away at the shore. This process creates remarkable landforms like wave-cut platforms, sea arches,  sea stacks, and chimneys. Due to the constant battering of wave energy, these landforms are usually short-lived.   Wind affects the surface of the Earth through deflation and abrasion. Deflation refers to the removal and transport of fine-grained sediment from the winds turbulent flow. As the sediment is airborne, it may grind and wear away surfaces with which it comes in contact. Like with glacial erosion, this process is known as abrasion.  Wind erosion is most common in flat, arid areas with loose, sandy soils.   Human Impact on Erosion Although erosion is a natural process, human activities like agriculture, construction, deforestation, and grazing can greatly increase its impact. Agriculture is particularly notorious. Areas that are conventionally plowed experience upwards of 10 times more erosion than normal. Soil forms at about the same rate that it  naturally erodes, meaning that humans are currently stripping away the soil at a very unsustainable rate.   Providence Canyon, sometimes referred to as Georgias Little Grand Canyon, is a strong testament to the erosional effects of poor farming practices. The canyon began forming in the early 19th century as rainwater runoff from the fields caused gully erosion. Now, just 200 years later, guests can see 74 million years of beautifully layered sedimentary rock in the 150-foot canyon walls.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Marketing Essential Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Marketing Essential - Assignment Example The return on assets of the bank was only 0.65% as compared to the average industry return approximated to be only 0. 81%. According to research, this low performance was due to the low interest from the public sector, that gives about 48% of the deposits and 28% of the loans (Thomas 2001). The country's government, in its proposed housing report has given a directive to the Bank to give 100% mortgage finances to its civil servants for three years (Roger 2000). The strategic plan of the Bank for the period starting 2001 to 2004 does not however include this directive from the government, as the competition for the deposits is still high . This situation therefore is a clear indication that the Bank has a great task to manage and give funding for this kind of loan deposits if it's to work with the guidelines of the Central Bank. The government, however, has given the Bank an opportunity to increase its market share as the deal would generate more money. Therefore, there need to raise the required money through deposits, while giving the Bank a greater market share in the local industry and increase the profits for the bank in the coming three years. This has been analyzed by looking at both the internal and external factors. The external factors has taken a look at the â€Å"macro-environment† , and the rivals in the market, while the internal factors was the analysis of the performance of the Bank, its management, infrastructure, the mission statement and its market coverage. There was the â€Å"SWOT† analysis that was aimed at identifying the Bank's strengths, weakness, opportunities and the threats. The analysis gives the Bank an indication that their need to change the strategies the bank used that and to give the market coverage the importance. This does not show that the Bank should ignore its existing market such as giving service to the public sector but refocusing the already being used mission. This would help the bank to achieve her stat ed objectives over time. Introduction The directive by the government to the Bank to give mortgaging, financing to the public servants puts the bank in a hard situation to get the deposits required to finance these servants. The mortgages will have a repayment period of 15 years with the interest rates based on 7. 5 per annum. The mortgage amount the Bank is expected to raise for the civil servants is $ 65 million and according to a research the new mortgage plan is to amount to $10 million in the first year, $18 million in the second year, and $37 million in the third year. This marketing plan for the Bank is intended to enable it raise the required funds for the directive, while to secure a strong position in the market industry and get higher profits for the 3 year period and the future plan (Carl 2000). In order to achieve this objective, the Bank had to deal with the issue of retaining the existing customers, come up with new customers, raise the $65 million to fund the civil s ervants over the next three years, increase her market share, maintain loans to deposit ratio to be in line with central bank's guidelines (appendix A), and to increase the company profits (Mintel 2001). Analysis of the Company Situation Competition In the country, there are four other related banks that offer similar services as the Kenya Commercial Bank. The banks include, the Barclays bank, the Standard Chartered bank, the Equity Bank, and K-Rep bank. These banks have all been successful in their

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Tell us about the types of housing foundation used today in terms of Essay

Tell us about the types of housing foundation used today in terms of building structure and interior design - Essay Example ce, a house built in a bad soil might require the use of a deep foundation Because of this, an individual is free to choose on the type of foundation to use. The following are some of the popular types of foundations used today: This is a type of foundation in which a concrete slab is prepared and then used as a foundation. Here, a 4-8 thick concrete slab is made on an initially prepared frost line footing then used as a base for the entire building. In this situation, the foundation is directly constructed on a place in which there is no crawlspace or basement. However, for slab foundation to be effective, it needs to be embedded with steel bars (Dearborn & Verton, 2007). These are necessary for preventing any faulting or cracking which might be experienced. Besides, it should be made after the construction of all the necessary waistlines and waterlines. Thus, it will produce a very firm and long lasting foundation for the structure. Slab foundation has become very popular with many interior designers because it is less costly. In fact, it is the cheapest of all the construction foundations. Unlike other foundations, it only requires the use of a slab. This helps in saving on the money that would otherwise be used in floor joints that are used for supporting the building. In addition, the construction of this foundation is much easier as compared to others. Once it is made, the house is directly erected on it (Nicholson, 2011). Hence, it helps in saving a lot of time during the construction process. Nevertheless, slab foundation might be undesirable to some designers and house owners because it is more expensive to maintain. For example, in case of any breakage, the entire slab might be torn a part before any reparations are made. Meaning, it is expensive to repair in case of damage. Crawlspace foundation is constructed from the outside of the house. They are raised above the ground to elevate the building to around 5 feet above the ground level. It is

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Leaders in Innovation Assessment Essay Example for Free

Leaders in Innovation Assessment Essay As stated in the assessment instructions, in the field of organizational leadership, many models are used as a means of examining what qualities and skills make an effective leader. Although there is a variety of models I have decided to analyze the behavioural and the transformational theory models. Reviewing the resources recommended for discovery and delivery skills, I learned how those skills have a direct impact on an effective leader’s performance in innovation organization. The discovery skills are based on associating, questioning, observing, experimenting, and networking they are also referred as the DNA of innovation. Delivery skills also play in the innovation process with their four key skills which are analyzing, planning, detail-oriented implementing, and self-disciplined executing. In the body of this paper I will unfold my research on those skills and identify its correlation with innovation. I will also be assessing the strengths and weaknesses on my ability to support innovation in an organization. Leadership Models Supporting Innovation Over the years, a number of leadership theories have been established including: trait, behavioural, contingency, and transformational theory. My analysis will be on behavioral and transformational. Behavioral Theories As described in Doyle and Smith (2001) early researchers ran out of steam in their search for traits, they turned to what leaders did and how they behaved, specially towards followers. They moved from leaders to leadership and this became the dominant way of approaching leadership within the organizations in the 1950s and early 1960s. Different patterns of behaviour  were grouped together and labeled as styles. This became a very popular activity within management training perhaps the best known being Blake and Moutons Managerial Grid (1964; 1978). Various schemes appeared, designed to diagnose and develop peoples style of working. Despite different names, the basic ideas were very similar. The four main styles that appear are: Concern for task. Here leaders emphasize the achievement of concrete objectives. Concern for people. In this style, leaders look upon their followers as people their needs, interests, problems, and development. Directive leadership. This style is characteriz ed by leaders taking decisions for others and expecting followers or subordinates to follow instructions. Participative leadership. Here leaders try to share decision-making with others. The behavioral theory has many assumptions which conclude that leaders can be made rather than born. This theory has a direct approach with innovation in the organization. With the managements concern for their employees it gives everyone in the organization the motivation to innovate. Innovation is all about adaptability and with the behavioral theory leaders are made, which means that they can adapt to any situation that they are confronted with. The following grid model was developed by Robert Blake and Jane Mouton in the early 1960s The grid clarifies the magnitude in which a leader focuses on these dimensions determining the leadership style that they relate to. Some leaders are more concerned with getting the tasks at hand completed successfully in a timely manner. Other leaders prefer creating solid interpersonal relationships with their employees, because by being an oriented leader the employee’s performance will be higher. For example, if you have a high concern for completing a task and achieving results with little concern for having a relationship with people, you would be an authority-obedience manager. Another example: if you have little concern to complete a task or interact with people, you would be an impoverished manager. Transformational Theory Transformational leaders are those leaders who transform followers personal  values and self-concepts, move them to higher levels of needs and aspirations (Jung, 2001), and raise the performance expectations of their followers (Bass, 1995). This leadership has four components; charismatic role modeling, individualized consideration, inspirational motivation, and intellectual stimulation. Using charisma, the leader instills admiration, respect, and loyalty, and emphasizes the importance of having a collective sense of mission. By individualized consideration, the leader builds a one-to-one relationship with his or her followers, and understands and considers their differing needs, skills, and aspirations. Thus, transformational leaders articulates an exciting vision of the future, shows the followers the ways to achieve the goals, and expresses his or her belief that they can do. (Bass, 1990) Incorporated by (Cohen and Levinthal, 1990; Damanpour, 1991) has been suggested that transformational leadership is an important source of organizational innovation, empirical studies have not examined the moderating role of this contextual factor while investigating the relationship between transformational leadership and innovation. In addition to external support for innovation, support within the organization, in terms of an innovation supporting climate and adequate resources allocated to innovation might also be an important contextual factor that plays a role in this relationship. Transformational leaders have been suggested to have an impact on innovation. Transformational leaders enhance innovation within the organizational context; in other words the tendency of organizations to innovate. According to (Elkins and Keller, 2003) transformational leaders use inspirational motivation and intellectual stimulation which are critical for organizational innovation. They also promote creative ideas within their organizations and their behaviors. Blake , and Jane (n.d.). Discovery and Delivery Skills In recent studies it has been identified that the ability of a person’s creative thinking comes one-third from their genetics; and the other two-thirds of innovation skill set comes through learning (Dyer, Gregersen,   Christensen, 2009, p. 63). To begin with, a person is given a skill set that they will analyze till understand, then practicing, experimenting, and lastly gaining confidence in one’s capacity to create. The following details will demonstrate by skills how innovative entrepreneurs acquire their innovation skills. The following five skills set that constitute the â€Å"innovators DNA†: associating, questioning, observing, networking, and experimenting. Discovery skill 1: Associating is the ability to successfully connect seemingly unrelated questions, problems, or ideas from different fields, is central to the innovator’s DNA. Discovery skill 2: Questioning the power of provocative questions. To question effectively, innovative entrepreneurs do the following: ask â€Å"why?† and â€Å"why not?† and â€Å"what if?† Discovery skill 3: Observing the behavior of potential customers. In observing others, they act like anthropologists and social scientists. Discovery skill 4: Experimenting, innovative entrepreneurs actively try out new ideas by creating prototypes and launching pilots. Discovery skill 5: Networking is devoting time and energy to finding and testing ideas through a network of diverse individuals gives innovators a radically different perspective. Delivery skills play in the innovation process, improving their discovery, and encouraging themselves and their organizations to take a long-term view. The delivery skills consist of four keys terms: analyzing, planning, detailed-oriented implementing, and self-disciplined executing. At times delivery skills are relatively more important during the maturity growth of a business. Analyzing: examine methodically and in detail the constitution or structure of something or information. Planning: the process of making plans for something. Detail-oriented implementing: capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task well done and executed. Disciplined-executing: acting in accordance, and performing an act successfully. The synthesis of, discovery and delivery skills are critical for delivering results and translating an innovative idea into reality for organizations. According to Dyer, Gregersen, and Christensen, (2011) it is vital to understand that the skills critical to an organization’s success  vary systematically throughout the business life cycle. For example, in the start-up phase of an innovative venture, the founders are obviously more discovery-driven and entrepreneurial. Discovery skills are crucial early in the business life cycle because the company’s key task is to generate new ideas worth pursuing. Thus, discovery skills are highly valued at this stage and delivery skills are secondary. However, once innovative entrepreneurs come up with a promising new business idea and then shape that idea into a bona fide business opportunity, the company begins to grow and then must pay attention to building the processes necessary to scale the idea. Strengths and Weaknesses in Discovery Delivery Skills Strengths Discovery Skills Weaknesses Associating: I’m always coming up with new ideas to improve things. Experimenting: Like with observing I also like to experiment, but I quickly become frustrated after getting something wrong after a couple of tries. I would like to give myself the ability to keep trying with a positive mind that I will get to the right solution. Questioning: When it comes to questioning I don’t have a mute button. I like to ask enough questions because it helps me come up with the best solution. Networking: I have no networking skills. I’ve had the opportunity to do this in my place of work, but I never take the time to do it. Observing: This skill is definitely one of my strongest. I observe everything that goes around me always finding a better way to solve an issue. StrengthsDelivery SkillsWeaknesses Planning: I enjoy planning, especially when the plan in process will be a success to an issue. Analyzing: I lose interest very easily when I have to sit down for a long period of time to analyze something. Detail-Oriented: When I’m given and assignment I make sure I executed just as it was asked. Discipline-executing: I always make sure I perform to the best of my ability as asked of me following all regulations and procedures to be successful. Having good associating, questioning, observing, planning, detail-oriented, and discipline-executing skills will not only be beneficial for me, but also  for the organization that I work for. Due to the fact that innovation is a critical aspect for organizations, senior executives are always seeking for candidates with these types of skills because it will contribute to their ability to innovate and be successful in the business with strategically ideas since executives don’t feel responsible for innovating. Unfortunately due to that fact; that my weaknesses with experimenting, networking, and analyzing will hinder my ability to support innovation in an organization at 100%. Although I’m not as concerned even though my weaknesses will delay any project I might be working on, but with trial in error I can convert those weaknesses into strengths. As stated in the innovators DNA, practice, practice, practice. Though innovative thinking may be innate to some, it can also be developed and strengthened through practice. Conclusion Through the models and detailed explanations we have learned how the behavioral and transformational theories are a big part of innovation and organizations. The roles of discovery and delivery skills are crucial in an organization to innovate with ideas, research, and these skills are a company’s success to innovate and succeed. I feel comfortable with my discovery and delivery skills, my role now are to practice and work on my weaknesses. A candidate with all the skills in place; is better than one with just a few. References Barnard, C. (1938), new definition of leadership. Retrieved from http://changingminds.org/disciplines/leadership/theories/leadership_theories.htm Bass, B. M. (1990). From Transactional to Transformational Leadership: Learning to Share the Vision. Organizational Dynamics, 18(3): 19-32. Bass, B. M. (1995). Transformational Leadership. Journal of Management Inquiry, 4(3): 293 298. Behavioral Grid Retrieved from http://education-portal.com/academy/lesson/classical-leadership-theories-lesson-quiz.html#lesson Cohen, W. M. and Levinthal, D. A. (1990).Absorptive Capacity: A New Perspective on Learning and Innovation. Administrative Science Quarterly, 35: 128-152. Damanpour, F. (1991). Organizational Innovation: A Meta-analysis of Effects of Determinants and Moderators. Academy of Management Journal, 34: 555-590. Doyle, M. E., Smith, M. K. (2001). Classical models of managerial leadership: Trait, behavioral, contingency and transformational theory. Retrieved from Infed Web site: http://www.infed.org/leadership/tradional_leadership.htm. Dyer, J. H., Gregersen, H. B., Christensen, C. M. (2009, December). The innovators DNA. Harvard Business Review, 87(12), 60–67. Dyer, J. H., Gregersen, H. B., Christensen, C. M. (2011). The innovators DNA: Mastering the five skills of disruptive innovators. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press. Elkins, T. and Keller, R. T. (2003). Leadership in Research and Development Organizations: A Literature Review and Conceptual Framework. Leadership Quarterly, 14: 587-606. Jung, D. I. (2001). Transformational and Transactional Leadership and Their Effects on Creativity in Groups. Creativity Research Journal, 13 (2): 185-195 Transformational model Retrieved from http://strategyofnarayan.blogspot.com/2013/04/assignment-of-week-23.html

Friday, November 15, 2019

My special person essay :: essays research papers

MY SPECIAL PERSON â€Å"When I entered the classroom, for the very last time, I looked around at every little detail, many of which I’d probably ignored, for the past four years. Birds were singing in a synchronised melody as they flew past our classroom window. There was the natural aroma of fresh coffee coming from the teacher’s lounge next door. My classmates were sitting at their usual desk waiting for the first lesson to begin. But something was different today, something wasn’t right. And as I entered the classroom it hit me, like an unseen rocket headed to my heart†¦ †¦ The silence. All eyes were on me, some gave a sorry-you’re-leaving-smile, while others looked liked they were about to jump off the nearest window. These were my friends, not just any old friends of course, they felt like family, I grew up with these people and at that moment as I stared into each of their eyes I realized something, something which had always been staring back at me, these people were special. Each and everyone had something that made them unique and as they sat there shining like a thousand stars, one of them shined the brightest. Her long silky hair covered half of her face, but I knew she’d been crying, he chestnut coloured eyes tried to avoid meeting mine but when we did exchange glances, I have her a sympathetic smile and she returned the favour. The rest of that day was full of tears, hugs, a surprise party, games presents and goodbyes. That day will stay with me forever. However I am glad to say that wasn’t the last time I saw my friends and I’m even more glad to say that wasn’t the last time I saw my best friend. Its funny how two people, who are connected, become even closer when they’re apart. Fortunately Ginevra came to visit me in London twice after that, but I went back to see her in my hometown every year. As the years past, and as we grew, our friendship grew stronger, like an ever-growing tree, sending it’s roots deeper and deeper into the ground. Every year she would wait for me with open arms. Some people get worn-out with long distant friendship, but not her, she would always stick by me and never let me down. When I lived in Italy for all those nine years I never had the privilege to have any brothers or sisters so I considered her as my own flesh and blood.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

The Effects of the Media on Body Image

The pressure to be thin has amplified significantly due to the growing influence of the media. Despite numerous of other factors that contribute to society's view of the ideal body image, the media by far has the largest influence on society through icons that constantly reinforce unrealistic beauty standards and idealize the thin. The media persistently glamorizes the extremely skinny, which greatly impacts how society views different body types. Pictures of impossibly thin models are continuously pasted all over billboards and magazines. The skinny are looked up to, and the obese are shunned. Popular television shows that include overweight characters depict them either as comical outcasts or failures. There is also an abundance of television programs that focus solely on overweight individuals attempting to lose weight. For instance, The Biggest Loser is a very successful television series and publishing enterprise which selects participants based on body size. According to John Whyte, MD, in â€Å"Media Portrayal of People Who are Obese,† â€Å"The Biggest Loser promotes the perception that obesity is caused by individual failure rather than a mixture of individual, environment, and genetic sources. The popular television show also suggests that obese people are fat because they are lazy and that the only way for them to be respected and accepted is to lose the extra weight. These type of shows portray obesity in a certain way that promotes negative perceptions and fosters prejudice against the obese. Viewers don't consciously think about it, but the more they a re around the media that subtly promotes these perceptions, the more likely the perceptions are to be engrained in their minds. Moreover, the high standards of beauty that the media implements daily are nearly impossible for the majority of people to meet. Even though the average American is at least slightly overweight or obese, popular media pushes out derogatory themes that discriminate unfairly against the obese. The media's strong influence on society against bigger body types has caused numerous of dire effects on the way people think today. As stated by Shelly Grabe of Medical News Today in her article â€Å"Concern over Strong Media Influence on Women's Body Image,† researchers have recently conducted a meticulous study on the extent to which the media affects women. They found a tremendous difference between those who were exposed to media and those who were not; the women who had been exposed reported less satisfaction with their bodies (Grabe). Exposure to media that depicts dangerously thin actresses and models significantly increases people's distress about their bodies, thereby influencing dissatisfaction and chances of engaging in unhealthy eating behaviors. Furthermore, research has â€Å"repeatedly shown that constant exposure to thin models fosters body image concerns and disordered eating† in many people. Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia have been steadily more common in younger generations today. Subliminal messages from the media about what the â€Å"ideal† body should look like molds the naive teenagers' mindset and influences their definitions of what is ugly and what is beautiful. There are few that escape the inundating influences of the media. In fact, â€Å"the average American sees three thousand ads per day† (Jean Kilbourne). Therefore, the media does not just play a small role in influencing society's view on different body types. The media relentlessly bombards society with negative connotations of the overweight and the fat, unwelcomingly shaping America's perception of the ideal body. Discrimination against body types that do not fit into the media's definition of beauty has immensely impacted society. However, the media does not have to be such a big influence. There have been a plethora of organizations that exist to help boost the self esteem of those who suffer from harmful messages sent by the media about what their bodies should look like. According to the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA), a civil rights organization, was started in 1969 to â€Å"eliminate discrimination based on body size and to provide obese people with the tools for self-empowerment though public education, advocacy, and support. † NAAFA delivers a message to society that belies the media's input of the ideal body type. The non-profit organization seeks to better society and to limit discrimination against the obese. There are many similar organizations and groups that help support people who are facing discrimination from their peers. Additionally, there has been an ongoing growth of celebrities who embrace their bodies for what they are. Celebrities such as Adele serve as an excellent inspiration and role model to people who look up to them. Seventeen Magazine has also initiated a Beauty Peace Treaty which encourages females all around the world to pledge to accept their bodies. The treaty has gained the signatures and vows of over four thousand people and continues to grow in popularity. Even though popular media is the root of the negative impressions of the obese, society does not have to be anchored in place to those stereotypes. The media has the greatest incessant impact on society’s view of the ideal body type. From advertisements to song lyrics, popular media is ubiquitous, constantly reinforcing erroneous standards of beauty and flawed perceptions of the obese. However, there are a variety of different resources that help combat the negative influences from the media and encourage those that suffer from low body image.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Reading journal- Parvana Essay

The book Parvana is about an 11-year-old girl living in Afghanistan, under the extreme Taliban regime. The Taliban ban women from going outside without a man and Afghan women are forced to wear the burqa at all times in public. Her family lost almost everything due to the bombings/wars in Afghanistan. Her father sells their remaining family items at the market place and offers his service of writing and reading and documents for people to make a living. The story takes a twist as Parvana’s father gets arrested and put in jail because he attended collage in England. Parvana is forced to change her appearance, to look like a boy and help her family buy products from the market and also take her father’s place in the market to earn the family some money. Characterisation- is the process of conveying information about characters. Characters may be presented by means of description, through their actions, speech, or thoughts. Details of characterisation might also include descriptions of what a certain character wears, looks like, and smells like and so on. Parvana- is the main character in this book. She is a teenage girl living a tough life in a country where women don’t have rights. Her father calls her his little ‘Malali’. Parvana is a confident girl who never gives up hope. Father- He is an educated man, working in the marketplace as a letter reader/writer. Father needs to be accompanied by Parvana, as a bomb blew off his leg. Mother- Her name is Fatana, she is a loving and caring person who looks after the whole family. She is also educated and used to work for the women’s Afghanistan association before the Taliban took over. Mrs. Weera- She is an old PE teacher who worked with Parvana’s mother. She is a great and very helpful woman who comes to live with the family. She is an independent woman who pushes the family to fight harder and often compares life to the hockey field, describing the family as a strong team. Shauzia- An eleven-year-old girl, who also works in the market place and becomes Parvana’s best friend. Homa- A shy girl that Parvana finds hiding in a bombed house. The Taliban murdered her family and she was left to die on the streets. Parvana’s family and Mrs. Weera adopt Homa, as she slowly recovers. Setting- The setting is where the events/ story takes place. There may be more than one setting in a novel. The time of an event is also considered as a setting. This book Parvana takes place in Kabul, Afghanistan Theme- the main subject that is being discussed or described in a piece of writing This book is full of themes like courage, perseverance, friendship, adventure, and many others. But the most important theme in the entire novel is courage, As of Parvana’s determination and boldness that she is able to deal with the challenges she faces. It is hard to believe that the naà ¯ve eleven year old of the opening chapters becomes the courageous young adult that her family must rely on. This courage is first evident when Parvana decides to disguise herself as a boy and states, â€Å"In the end, it was really her decision†¦Ã¢â‚¬ËœI’ll do it.†Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ This shows us that Parvana realizes that her family is in desperate need and is willing to put herself in direct jeopardy for her family. Key concepts: Diaspora/Displacement- the voluntary or forcible movement of peoples from  their homelands into new regions Refugee / illegal migrants/ migrants/ asylum seekers- people who leave their country in order to escape war, persecution, natural disaster or just to live a better life. Emigrant/ immigration- an immigrant is someone moving into a country and an emigrant is someone moving out or away from a country. Dying or dead languages/ Mother Tongues- The Language that a person has grown up speaking from early childhood. Sub- cultures/ cultural landscapes- a cultural group within a larger culture, often having beliefs or interests at variance with those of the larger culture. Slavery- Slavery- is a system under which people are treated as property to be bought and sold, and are forced to work. Terrorism- the unofficial or unauthorized use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims. Women rights- Women’s rights are the rights and entitlements claimed for women an d girls of many societies worldwide Taliban- a fundamentalist Islamic militia; in 1995 the Taliban militia took over Afghanistan and in 1996 took Kabul and set up an Islamic government; â€Å"the Taliban enforced a strict Muslim code of behavior† People/ religion- the belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, especially a personal God or gods. Wars- a state of armed conflict between different countries or different groups within a country. Reference: Definition of key concepts War – definition of war by the Free Online Dictionary, Thesaurus and Encyclopedia.. 2014. war – definition of war by the Free Online Dictionary, Thesaurus and Encyclopedia.. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.thefreedictionary.com/war. [Accessed 18 March 2014].   Thinking about why we read literature Peer ‘Interview’ -Why bother reading books? Books are not only entertaining to read once you get the right one, but extend your skills in so many areas including grammar and punctuation and spelling. They boost your imagination and your creativity, and also, in my opinion, give you a different outlook on the world depending on the moral and/or plot of the story. -How would the experience of life be different without books? The amazing thing about books is the community that revolves around them, and now with social media, sharing great books has never been easier. Books give knowledge, skills and creativity, so a world without books would destroy a large community of book worms and less creativity in people would be evident, not to mention the grammar and punctuation. -What does literature bring to the human experience that other activities cannot bring? Once you get really into a book, there is really nothing like it. The only thing I could compare to the experience of a good book is a movie. When I read a really good book, I have a mental image, almost a mental movie, rolling in my head all the time. I block out distraction and find myself gasping at the ink on the paper. -What kind of books have you been reading over the past year? I have not read as many books as I would have liked to in the last year, mostly due to being busy, but the books I have read have been typically ones aimed at my age group, such as late-teen fiction, mostly action genre. -Do you enjoy reading? Why/why not? I only enjoy reading when I get immersed into a good book, if the book doesn’t really grab me early on, typically in the first half, I do not enjoy reading it. -Does reading literature have much value to most young people now? I think young people such as myself think literature is no value to them, but they really don’t understand how broad the word literature extends. Most things they read on the Internet is literature such as quotes they find relatable or the latest celebrity gossip. -Why do teachers push students into reading fiction rather than just non-fiction? Fiction is a fresh change from the reality of non-fiction. Fiction has much more versatility in the way it can let the imagination run free and create a story in which grabs the reader -Why do so many cultures place great value on â€Å"literature†? Literature is shared and passed around and down through the decades, this is the same across any culture around the world, whether it is through the Internet as previously stated, or through Aboriginal dreamtime stories. -Will books survive this decade? Why/why not? I think books will never go out of fashion; they will always be available whether through the physical paper format or the electronic format. They are too much of a unique experience when you get into one to not survive the current decade. EXPLORING TEXTS Book Ellis, D, 2002. Parvana. 2nd ed. Kabul, Afghanistan: Allen & Unwin. Journal Abirafeh, L, 2003. The Impact of Religion on Women in the Development Process. CriticalHalf Journal of Women for Women International , Volume 1, part 1, 37-38. Newspaper Bengali, S, 2014. Taliban threaten to attack Afghan presidential elections. The Guardian, 10 March. Website No choice for Afghan girls brought up as boys. 2014. No choice for Afghan girls brought up as boys. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.asafeworldforwomen.org/children/c-central-and-south-asia/children-in-afghanistan/2191-no-choice-for-afghan-girls-brought-up-as-boys.html. [Accessed 13 March 2014]. Other (Web article) Zavis, A, 2009. Taliban. Afghan corruption greases Taliban’s rise, [Online]. 1, 1. Available at: http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2009-11-21/news/0911210199_1_president-hamid-karzai-opium-trade-taliban [Accessed November 21, 2009]. â€Å"Once upon a time†¦Ã¢â‚¬  The Author of the book Parvana draws the reader into the book by putting them straight into the events of Parvan’s life. It makes the reader more and more  curious about her life and it makes the reader to read more. The story starts off at the market place where Parvana is whispering to herself â€Å"I can read that letter as well as Father can† (Pg9), she wouldn’t dare to say it out loud because the man next to them would not want to hear her voice nor doesn’t anyone else in the market! The Author then goes on to explain the harsh rules of the Taliban and how girls are not meant to be outside. The whole book is in a chronological order, it explains their history as we read. Where and when? The novel Parvana is set in Kabul Afghanistan. Afghanistan is located in the Middle East. Afghanistan has been at war since 1978, when American backed fighters opposed the soviet0backed government.  Before the U.S. invasion, before the Russian war, before the Marxist revolution, Afghanistan used to be a beautiful place.  One of a few American schools in Afghanistan shows just how stable the country once was.  The beautiful city of Kabul had become a city of ruins and bombed out buildings. Many buildings had become bricks and dust. The restaurants and stores were gone. The streets had many holes in them and caused people to fall. References How the city of Kabul changed . 2014. . [ONLINE] Available at: https://mkislibrary.pbworks.com/f/Breadwinner+questions.pdf. [Accessed 18 March 2014]. Characterisation (who?) Parvana Beginning Middle End Bewildering Brave Relief Dissatisfied Courage’s Excited Intelligent Strong Safe Proud Determined Accomplished Truthful Adventures Joy Parvana is a very joyful and a strong girl. She is a 13-year-old girl and nothing can bring her down! She is also a determined, hard worker. If she has something to say she will say it, she demonstrates this as she stands up to the Taliban by saying, â€Å"stop! Stop it!† (Pg44) and she said this to protect her mother. Through out the book Parvana grows stronger as a person, she went from a girl who barley had the guts to talk, to a person who was the source to the family and took care of everyone. Before the wars Parvana and her family were living in a good and a peaceful life. When the Taliban took over, the whole country suffered. The family’s  house used to be nice, and the parents had come from respected Afghan families. The house was large with servants, and many rooms. A bomb had destroyed the first house, and the family had moved many times until finally they all lived in one small room. Parvana and her friend came up with an idea of a portable â€Å"shop† by using trays to move their items around. But Money to buy trays, they did something revolting. Parvana took the decision to dig up bones from a graveyard to earn money. There are many other events like this that took part in her life. She loves making her own decisions, as you can tell she loves adventures. She has achieved many things, one being working to take care of her family. Parvana is always willing to help out and she is a kind-hearted person. Plot construction (what happens? When? Why? How?) The Events are not really too different from really life, most of the events that take place in the book still happens in Afghanistan. Parvana is a brave girl who stands up to the Taliban, Parvana and her mum were beaten up by the Taliban just for standing up for their rights. An event similar to the story took place last year, a girl was shot by a Taliban for speaking out and attending school. Plot structure: Is the sequence of events that make up a story, the plot usually begins with an exposition,  Subplot: Is the secondary strand of the plot that is there to support the main plot. A subplot usually involves supporting characters, takes up less of the action and has less significant events occur. Crisis – Critical event or point of decision which, if not handled in an appropriate and timely manner, a turning point and may turn into a disaster or catastrophe.  Resolution – It is the point in the stories plot line where the original conflict is solved. The problem in the story is resolved. Complication- complication means to have a problem that makes you have a decision between 2 things. Flashback – recalling of a previous event or happening to clarify a current situation in a literary work. It is used to create suspense in the story.  Climax- the most intense, exciting, or important point of in a novel/story.  Coda- Is the very last paragraph of a story or a letter which puts the story to an end. Basically the concluding section of a story.  Timeline of events that occurred in the book Parvana Perspective The topic I’m going to discuss is when I broke my curfew and came home late. My perspective towards it was that I just couldn’t make it any earlier and I missed the bus that’s why I was late. But my mum’s attitude towards it was that I broke her trust and disobeyed her by not getting home in time. Her belief was that I don’t value her trust as much as she does. First person narration- A point of view in which a story is narrated by one character at a time, taking about themselves. First-person narrators usually use of the pronoun â€Å"I,† as they are talking bout themselves. Third Person narration – Third person is told from an outside narrator’s point of view and it uses pronouns such as â€Å"he† or â€Å"she.† Omniscient narration- All†knowing’ kind of narrator, mostly found in works of fiction written as third person narrative. The omniscient narrator has a  full knowledge of the story’s and the unspoken thoughts of the various characters. The one event from my book that I choose was when Parvana and Shauzia, see thousands of people huddle into the stadium and watch the punishment of thieves where they got their hands chopped off. Watching this event through Parvan’s eyes was terrific, scary and unbearable, as they are kids and it’s a very harsh punishment. Watching this through the other men in the crowd was no too bad because they are used to it, they are used to the Taliban scaring them with events like this as they probably have seen worse before. References Definitions Literature Glossary. 2014. Literature Glossary.   Available at: http://www.shmoop.com/literature-glossary/first-person-narration.html. [Accessed 19 March 2014]. Theme is what the main idea is in the story. It’s the subject of the novel. Plot is what a story is all about. It’s the general idea on what the readers or viewers must expect to happen in the story. Parvana is full of concepts like courage, kindness, perseverance, friendship, adventure, and many others. In this novel there are a number of themes, but there are three more significant themes than the others. Courage is one of the most important theme in this novel, the determination and boldness that Parvana is able to deal with challenges she faces. A young eleven-year-old girl becomes the courage’s young adult that her family must rely on. The first sings of courage is shown when Parvana decides to disguise herself as a boy and says. â€Å"In the end, it was really her decision†¦Ã¢â‚¬ËœI’ll do it.†Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ This shows us that Parvana realizes that her family needs her and they’re in desperate need. Parvan’s behavior is courageous, as she knows that if the  Taliban catches her, she shall be punished, but knows that it is necessary because she is supporting her family. The second most significant theme would have to be kindness. Parvana is a kind willing person she treats others kindly, this includes family, friends and strangers. An example of one of her act of kindness is that when her sister Nooria was going to another city she decided to buy her a pen as a gift even though she did not have much money. Parvana had to work very hard in the market to earn the money she made. This demonstrates her kindness. Parvana puts others before herself, another example of Parvan’s kindness is her generosity towards strangers. Parvana found a girl named Homa she looked depressed and homeless. Parvana took a Homa to her house and gave her food, provided shelter, and comforted her as much as she could. Not many people would’ve treated a stranger as kind as Parvana treated Homa. The last most important theme in this book is war, as Parvana and her family is living in an area where war is going on and the every choice they make are based on the fact that war is going on. War has destroyed their life and their house, the main aim in this book is to get away from war and live a peaceful life. Packaging for Publication The cover design of Parvana highlights the main theme and the setting of the book as you can see its set in a Middle Eastern country as the two ladies besides Parvana are wearing a burqa and she looks like she is hiding from something. When deciding what goes on the front of your book you take into condensation the main theme and the plot of the book and the message your trying to get across to the reader, it also needs to be catchy enough. It should get someone who is walking past take their time to stop and read that blurb at the back of the book. The back should also have pictures to keep it looking exciting and not bland Referencing Article about an afghan girl shot down by a taliban Pakistan BANS memoir by Malala, the girl shot by the Taliban for going to school | Mail Online. 2014. Pakistan BANS memoir by Malala, the girl shot by the Taliban for going to school | Mail Online. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2497630/Pakistan-BANS-memoir-Malala-girl-shot-Taliban-going-school.html. [Accessed 18 March 2014]. Themes raised in Parvana What Are the Three Most Important Themes Raised by the Novel Parvana by Deborah Ellis? – College Essays – Kevinnathanael. 2014. What Are the Three Most Important Themes Raised by the Novel Parvana by Deborah Ellis? – College Essays – Kevinnathanael. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.studymode.com/essays/What-Are-The-Three-Most-Important-430531.html. [Accessed 18 March 2014]. Book review Home – The Breadwinner by: Deborah Ellis. 2014. Home – The Breadwinner by: Deborah Ellis. [ONLINE] Available at: http://ss-thebreadwinner.webs.com. [Accessed 18 March 2014].

Friday, November 8, 2019

How Senators Use the Filibuster to Stop Legislation

How Senators Use the Filibuster to Stop Legislation The term filibuster is used to describe a tactic used by members of the U.S. Senate to stall or delay votes on legislation. Lawmakers have used every trick imaginable to filibuster on the floor of the Senate: reading names from the phone book, reciting Shakespeare, cataloging all the  recipes for fried oysters. The use of the filibuster has skewed the way legislation is brought to the floor of the Senate. There are 100 members of the upper chamber in Congress, and most votes are won by a simple majority. But in the Senate, 60 has become the most important number. Thats because  it takes 60 votes in the Senate to block a filibuster and bring an end to unlimited debate or delay tactics. Senate rules allow any member or group of senators to speak as long as necessary on an issue. The only way to end the debate is to invoke cloture, or win a vote of 60 members. Without the 60 votes needed, the filibuster can go on forever. Historic Filibusters Senators have effectively used filibusters or more often, the threat of a filibuster to change legislation or block a bill from being voted on the Senate floor. Sen. Strom Thurmond gave the longest filibuster in 1957 when he spoke for more than 24 hours against the Civil Rights Act. Sen. Huey Long would recite Shakespeare and read recipes to pass the time while filibustering in the 1930s. But the most famous filibuster was conducted by Jimmy Stewart in the classic film Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. Why Filibuster? Senators have used filibusters to push for changes in legislation or to prevent a bill from passing with less than 60 votes. It is often a way for the minority party to yield power and block legislation, even though the majority party chooses what bills will get a vote. Often, senators make their intent to filibuster known to other senators to prevent a bill from being scheduled for a vote. Thats why you rarely see long filibusters on the Senate floors. Bills that will not be approved are rarely scheduled for a vote. During George W. Bushs administration, Democratic senators effectively filibustered against several judicial nominations. In 2005, a group of seven Democrats and seven Republicans - dubbed the Gang of 14 - got together to reduce filibusters for judicial nominees. The Democrats agreed not to filibuster against several nominees, while Republicans ended efforts to rule filibusters unconstitutional. Against the Filibuster Some critics, including many members of the U.S. House of Representatives who have seen their bills pass in their chamber only to die in the Senate, have called for an end to filibusters, or to at least lower the cloture threshold to 55 votes. They allege the rule has been used too often in recent years to block important legislation. Those critics point to data that show the use of the filibuster has become too common in modern politics. No session of Congress, in fact, had attempted to break a filibuster more than 10 times until 1970. Since then the number of cloture attempts has exceeded 100 during some sessions, according to the data. In 2013,  the Democratic-controlled U.S. Senate voted to change the rules on how the chamber acts on presidential nominations.  The change makes it easier to set up confirmation votes for  presidential nominees for executive branch and judicial nominees with the exception of those for the U.S. Supreme Court by requiring only a simple majority, or 51 votes, in the Senate.

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

The French Terms of Order of Events

The French Terms of Order of Events The English word then has two distinct meanings: one related to consequence and the other to time. These two meanings translate differently into French, and the various synonyms fall roughly into two groups: Words commonly used to explain the consequences or effect of an action, like  ainsi,  alors, and  donc,And terms used to indicate the sequence of events, such as  aprà ¨s,  ensuite, and  puis.   Cause and Effect Ainsi 1. so, thus, therefore  (adverb)   Ainsi, jai dà ©cidà © de partir.   So I decided to leave.Jai perdu mon emploi, ainsi je ne peux pas acheter la voiture.   I lost my job, so I cant buy the car. This use of ainsi is roughly interchangeable with donc (below). 2. this way, like that Si tu vas agir ainsi, je ne peux pas taider.   If youre going to act like that, I cant help youCest ainsi ; tu dois laccepter.   Thats the way it is; you have to accept itAinsi va la vie.   Such is life.Ainsi soit-il.   So be it. 3. ainsi que:  just as, like, as well as  (conjunction) Ainsi que javais pensà ©Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã‚  Just as I thought†¦   Je suis impressionà © par son intelligence ainsi que son honnà ªtetà ©.   I am impressed by his intelligence as well as his honesty. Alors 1.  then, so, in that case  (adverb)   Tu ne vas pas la fà ªte ? Alors, moi non plus.   Youre not going to the party? Then I wont either.Elle ne comprend pas, alors il faut laider.   She doesnt understand, so we need to help her.Je nai pas mangà ©, alors il est difficile de me concentrer.   I didnt eat, so its difficult to concentrate. When used in this way, alors is more or less interchangeable with the first meanings of ainsi and donc; however, alors is not as strong in its cause-effect.  It means so or then rather than therefore. In other words, ainsi and donc indicate that something happened, and specifically because of that, something else happened. Alors, on the other hand, is more well then I guess this will/did happen.2.  so, then, well  (filler)   Alors, quest-ce quon va faire ?  Ã‚  So what are we going to do?Alors l, je nen sais rien.  Ã‚  Well, I dont know anything about that.Et alors ?   And then? So what? 3.  at that time Il à ©tait alors à ©tudiant.   At that time, he was a student. /  He was a student at the time.Le prà ©sident dalors Bill Clinton†¦Ã‚  Ã‚  The president at that time /  Then-president Bill Clinton†¦ 4.  alors que: at that time, while; even though  (conjunction)   Il est allà © la banque alors que je faisais les achats.   He went to the bank while I did the shopping.Il est sorti alors que je ne voulais pas.   He went out even though I didnt want to. Donc 1.  therefore, so, thus  (conjunction)   Il nest pas arrivà ©, donc jai dà » manger seul.   He didnt arrive, so I had to eat alone.Je pense, donc je suis (Renà © Descartes).   I think, therefore I am. This usage of donc is interchangeable with the first meaning of ainsi. The only difference is that donc is a conjunction and, in theory, must join two clauses, whereas ainsi can be used with one or two clauses. In reality, donc is often used with just one clause as well: Donc je suis allà ©Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ So I went†¦ When used in this sense, both ainsi and donc indicate a cause-effect relationship. 2.  then, it must be, in that case Si ce nest pas Philippe cest donc Robert.  Ã‚  If its not Philippe then it is (it must be) Robert.Jai perdu mon stylo donc celui-ci est toi.  Ã‚  I lost my pen so this one must be yours. 3.  then, so  (intensifier or filler)   Donc, elle à ©tait enceinte ?   Was she pregnant, then? So was she pregnant?Voil donc notre conclusion.   So here is our conclusion.Qui donc à ªtes-vous ?   So who are you?Allons donc !   Come on (already)! This usage is similar to the way so is used in English. Technically, so indicates a cause-effect relationship, but it is often used colloquially as a filler. For example, you might greet someone and say So I bought a car or So, are you going out tonight? even though nothing was said previously that the so is linking back to. Sequence of Events Aprà ¨s 1.  after  (preposition)   Il a tà ©là ©phonà © aprà ¨s toi.   He called after you (did).Aprà ¨s avoir tout lu†¦ (past infinitive) After having read everything†¦ 2.  afterwards, later  (adverb)   Viens me voir aprà ¨s.   Come see me afterwards.Quest-ce qui sest passà © aprà ¨s ?   What happened later/afterwards? Aprà ¨s is not interchangeable with ensuite and puis. Those adverbs indicate a sequence of events, whereas aprà ¨s simply modifies a verb to say what will/did happen at a later time. There is no sense of progression from one action to the next when using aprà ¨s. 3.  aprà ¨s que: after  (conjunction)   Aprà ¨s quil est mort, jai dà ©mà ©nagà © en Belgique.   After he died, I moved to Belgium.Je vais le faire aprà ¨s quil arrivera.   Im going to do it after he arrives. Aprà ¨s que is followed by the indicative, not the subjunctive. However, when describing something that has not happened yet, the verb after aprà ¨s que is in the future, rather than in the present, as it is in English. Ensuite 1. then, next, later  (adverb)   Jai mangà © et ensuite je me suis habillà ©.   I ate and then I got dressed.Je suis allà © la banque et ensuite au musà ©e.   I went to the bank and then (to) the museum.Il ma dit ensuite que†¦   And then he told me†¦, / He told me later that†¦ Puis 1. then, next  (adverb)   Jai mangà ©, puis je me suis habillà ©.   I ate and then I got dressed.Je suis allà © la banque et puis au musà ©e.   I went to the bank and then (to) the museum.Puis il ma dit que†¦   Then he told me†¦ This meaning of puis is interchangeable with ensuite, except for the sense of later, which only ensuite has. They do not indicate a cause-effect relationship; they simply relate a sequence of events. 2.  et puis: and besides, moreover (conjunction) Je nai pas envie de sortir, et puis je nai pas dargent.   I dont feel like going out, and besides, I dont have any money.Nous devons à ©tudier, et puis toi aussi.   We have to study, and so do you.