Investment and Portfolio Management Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Investment and Portfolio Management - Assignment Example This research will begin with the statement that investment refers to the current commitment of dollars for a period of time so as to derive future payments that will compensate the investor for- The period for which the funds have been committed The expected rate of inflation during this period of time Compensation for the risk associated with the investment, i.e. the uncertainty of future payments The process of selection of investment categories requires analyzing, estimating and evaluating the expected risk return trade-off for the alternative investments available. Investment needs and Financial Plan differs from individual to individual, and changes with respect to the life cycle of the individual. After the investment decision is undertaken by the individual, the major function is to manage the investment portfolio evaluating the performance of the portfolio and updating the portfolio based on the changes in the economic environment and the investor’s needs. The investor has a sum of $100,000 to invest into financial products such as debt, equity, derivatives or cash according to his or her choice. The objective of the portfolio or the investment policy statement is to achieve long term growth of capital. In addition to that, the fund aims minimizing risk of capital loss through portfolio diversification. The portfolio will be monitored, analyzed and reported upon over the chosen time horizon. The return of the funds is evaluated relative to S&P 500 index.P 500 index. The strategy of the investor is to buy the stock and hold it for long term or at least three years, in expectation of long term capital appreciation. In order to mitigate the domestic gloom in the economy, few funds may be invested overseas in order to geographically diversify and earn benefits from emerging and developing markets. Proper diversification will help reduce the overall portfolio risk by spreading stock specific risk

Discussion Board Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 9

Discussion Board - Assignment Example By investigating and considering the diets of a suspect, psychiatrists, who always help establish the mental stability of suspects, readily establish the motives of the suspects thereby influence the entire judicial process. The phrase â€Å"Twinkie defense† portrays the importance of behavior analysis in court cases. In the trial of Dan White, a former police officer in San Francisco in 1979, the psychiatrist observe that the police officer killed the two victims involuntarily an was suffering from depression. Such determinations arose from the fact that White fed on junks a feature that portrayed his emotional and mental instability. The junks were therefore a symptom of the suspect’s psychological stability. The explanation changed the justice system as the judge later fund White guilty of manslaughter but not murder (Weiss, 2010). Briefly, observing diets among other external factors is vital process of psychoanalysis that helps determine the mental stability of people. In judicial processes, such observations are important since they prove the motives of the various actions. Observing such features is therefore vital inclusion in court proceedings that influence the effectiveness of the entire

Behavioural Effects on Buyer Purchasing Behaviour

Behavioural Effects on Buyer Purchasing Behaviour EVALUATING BEHAVIORAL FACTORS INFLUENCING CONSUMER’S PURCHASE OF CLOTHING AND ORNAMENTS Presented by Soumita De Shivam Sitoke Piyushi Chaudhary Pratiksha Wadekar Abstract This study evaluates behavioral components affecting buyer purchasing conduct of garments and adornments (Jewelry) in Pune, India. It was particularly carried out to analyze customer purchasing decision making process and survey social, financial and in addition individual components affecting purchasing behavior. Information for the study were assembled through structured questionnaire, on a sample of 120 buyers. The purpose behind this exploration is to inspect purchasers purchasing conduct and comprehend the key elements of brands which impact shoppers contribution towards in vogue marked apparel and stylish adornments. The socio-cultural elements are some of the crucial determinants of an individuals need and behavior. This paper extends comprehension of customer purchasing behavior identified with Indian environment and highlights the elements that exceedingly impact purchaser association in fashion. Introduction In addition to having speedier populace development, India in late decades has made striking financial increases, which have brought about changing societal view of the Indian purchasers. Thus, Indians have turned into a practical ethnic target business sector, Clothing area firms are contending to expand their benefit experience the business and among these organizations; branded attire has moved the traditional dressing enthusiasm of individuals. The Indian clothing business sector has showed growth and development in a sector described by moderate monetary development. The household clothing business, which was worth INR 207,400 crore (~USD 38 billion) starting 2012, is required to develop at a compound normal growth rate (CAGR) of 9% through the following decade. Further, the late exclusion of extract obligation on marked attire has given a driving force to retailers as far as the general business sector opinion. Development in Apparel Industry in India is expanding complex with the change in way of life, income and urbanization of the individuals. The overall customers are accepting the clothing style items created in India. AII has understood the tremendous potential to yield business in this section. The Indian purchasers are embracing stylish things rapidly and helpfully with the ascent in rivalry. The present study has been led to determine the data on the patterns of Apparel Industry in India through dissecting the present and future angles. The gems and Jewelery business is one of the biggest buyer divisions in the nation, bigger than telecom, cars and attire and maybe second just to the nourishment segment. Shoppers are more quality cognizant. The Indian adornments business sector is experiencing a slow transformation from unorganized to organized sector. In a short compass of time, sorted out retailers have effectively actualized a change in the purchasing example of the Indian buyers. This is obvious from the movement from the customary jewelery dealer to the jewelery specialist with a character. This shift obviously demonstrates a change in perspective of adornment as an item to brand Identification. Literature Review A paper named ‘Evaluation of Socio-Cultural Factors Influencing Consumer Buying Behaviour of Clothes in Borno State, Nigeria’ by Lawan A. Lawan and Ramat Zanna said that Socio-cultural variables made up of social, monetary, and instrumental variables are key components influencing buyer purchasing behavior, it is in this way presumed that socio-cultural elements, either acting autonomously or in conjunction with other individual or demographic components have huge impacts at every stage (need distinguishment, data pursuit, and assessment, support, and post buy conduct) of the purchaser garments purchasing decision making procedure. Having developed the idea from this paper, we try to test the how various buying behavior influence the consumption of an individual in Pune, India. A paper by Namrata Anand and Vandana Khetarpal from Haryana- India named â€Å"Growth of Apparel industry in India: Present and Future† India alternatively said that the span of both domestic and exports houses of Apparel Industry in India (AII) is anticipated to develop at a CAGR of 9.5% to reach $223 billion by 2021 from the $89 billion in 2011, as indicated by a white paper by industry body FICCI and research firm Technopak. Indias offer of the worlds clothing fares remains at 4.5%. It is evaluated that because of the expanding movement of clothing and material creation to Asian countries and the breaking down fare intensity of China, this figure will develop to 8% by 2020, with an aggregate fares estimation of $82 billion. This development, from 4.5 to 8% of world exchange, will open up immense potential for Indian players. According to Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the survey stated that most gold jewelery publicized in India as 22-carat was of a lesser quality. Over80% of the diamond setters sold gold adornments running from 13.5 carats to 18 carats as22-carat gold gems. The late 1990s saw various marked adornments players entering the Indian market. O ne can watch that there is gigantic extension for the development of marked gems. Despite the financial stoppage specialists accept that it will develop at a CAGR of 25%. A paper on â€Å"Purchasing Behavior of Women towards Ornaments: A Case Study of Bihpuria Town under Lakhimpur district, Assam† which focuses on the purchasing behavior of ornaments by women in Assam and the percentage of money spent on the ornaments from their total income. Empirical research on the influence of culture on consumer buying behaviour, conducted by Kacea and Lee revealed that there is a compelling and steady impact of society at both ethnicity level and the individual level. The study included that among numerous parts of buyer purchasing conduct which social components moderate incorporate character toward oneself, regularizing impacts, the concealment of feeling, and the post asphalt of moment satisfaction. Objective of the Study To study and comprehend the purchasing conduct of shoppers for branded and non-branded jewellery and clothing The study bails us to discover the contrast between discernment, feeling and conduct of branded and non-branded jewellery and clothing. This exploration provides for us a thought regarding the parameters, purchaser consider while purchasing garments or adornments and to know the level of information that the buyers have while purchasing. Methodology The region of study is the city of Pune, Maharashtra, India. Pune is said to be the social capital of the condition of Maharashtra. It embodies Marathi society, which lays accentuation on training, expressions and artworks, music, and theater. Pune society mirrors a mix of conventions with advancement, alongside facilitating established shows. Organized poll was utilized to inspire reactions on components impacting customer purchasing conduct. The populace for the study involved occupants from distinctive regions in Pune. The exploration utilized just essential wellsprings of information. Information acquired were subjected to illustrative measurements, chi square, T-Statistics and different relapse investigation utilizing a measurable bundle; GRETL and SPSS. Analysis and Interpretation The information acquired were investigated through program named Gretl and the outcomes were then interpreted. In this study as data collection system, questionnaire /survey was preferred to get target information. Questionnaire has been readied remembering the different human practices and it contained the accompanying questions: Do you like shopping around? Yes No Graph 1 How often do you go shopping? Sometimes Quite Often Regularly Never Graph 2 What tempts you to shop? Attractive advertisements Discounts Fashion Others Graph 3 When shopping, what do you look for? Value for money Good Quality Customer service Product image Others Graph 4 Do you prefer brands? Yes No Graph 5 If yes, which brand? (Clothing brand) If yes, which brand? Ornament brand (Jewellery) Where do you prefer to shop? Online Shopping Malls Market Exhibitions Others Graph 6 Why do you usually shop for Ornaments? For Festive Reasons For Occasions (Weddings, Birthdays) For Gifting Purpose For Investments Purpose For Re-sale Values For Daily Wear Graph 7 The Population Regression Function for Clothing is given by: Yi = ÃŽ ²1 + ÃŽ ²2X1i + ÃŽ ²3X2i + ÃŽ ²4X3i + ÃŽ ²5X4i + ÃŽ ²6X5i + ÃŽ ²7 X6i + ÃŽ ²8 X7i +Ui Where Yi is the dependent or the explained variable, the X’s are the independent or explanatory variables and Ui is the error term. Yi = Consumption Demand X1i = Age X2i = Shopping Intensity X3i = Shopping Frequency X4i = Shopping Temptation X5i = Shopping Requirements X6i = Shopping Brands X7i = Shopping Place ÃŽ ²1= Constant ÃŽ ²2= Coefficient of Shopping Intensity ÃŽ ²3 = Coefficient of Shopping Frequency ÃŽ ²4 = Coefficient of Shopping Temptation ÃŽ ²5 = Coefficient of Shopping Requirements ÃŽ ²6 = Coefficient of Shopping Brands ÃŽ ²7 = Coefficient of Shopping Place We have taken the period 1980-2011 for conducting our study Null Hypothesis: To test ÃŽ ²1 = ÃŽ ²2 = ÃŽ ²3 = ÃŽ ²4 = ÃŽ ²5 = ÃŽ ²6 = ÃŽ ²7 = ÃŽ ²8 = 0 Alternative Hypothesis: ÃŽ ²1 = ÃŽ ²2 = ÃŽ ²3 = ÃŽ ²4 = ÃŽ ²5 = ÃŽ ²6 = ÃŽ ²7 = ÃŽ ²8 ≠  0 After we run an OLS (Ordinary Least Squares) on the available data we get the following results as shown in Table 1. Table 1 Interpretation OLS regression analysis was employed to show the relative influences of variables like age, shopping intensity, shopping frequency, shopping temptation, shopping requirements, shopping brands, shopping place on consumer buying behavior of clothes in the state of Pune. The results indicates that when there is a rise in age by 1 unit, the Consumer demand rises by 0..47 units The result indicates that when there is a rise in shopping intensity by 1 unit, the Consumer demand falls by 4.76 units. The result indicates that when there is a rise in shopping frequency by 1 unit, the Consumer demand rises by 3.56 units. The result indicates that when there is a rise in shopping temptation by 1 unit, the Consumer demand rises by 0.963 units. The result indicates that when there is a rise in shopping requirements by 1 unit, the Consumer demand rises by 1.467 units. The result indicates that when there is a rise in shopping brands by 1 unit, the Consumer demand falls by 46.15 units. The result indicates that when there is a rise in shopping place by 1 unit, the Consumer demand falls by 1.724 units. From the survey and the noted results through the pie charts we can make the following interpretation on the buying behaviour of the consumers:- Shopping intensity shows a negative coefficient influence whereas shopping frequency shows a positive coefficient influence. Income of consumers have the most influences on consumer buying decision process due to the fact that low income earners may want to prioritize their spending to satisfy basic needs and high income earners concentrate more on their taste and preferences. As a result we see a negative coefficient influence with the consumer buying demand and the place of shopping. Consumers with higher income tend to choose places with brands and luxurious commodities as compared to people with lower income, who would choose to maximize their utility of consumption by minimizing the cost. Hence they may prefer to choose places where non-branded clothes are available too. Shopping temptation and requirements have a positive coefficient influence thus stating that when people are tempted by advertisements, their demand for consumption rises. Consumers shop according to their requirements which are a major factor determining consumer’s propensity to spend and the lower it is the higher the need to carefully share it among basic needs. Shopping brands seem to have a negative coefficient influence on the consumer demands proving that people prefer quality of product more than the brand name associated with it. Age was found to have great impacts on purchasing choice process as uncovered by the positive relapse coefficient impacts over the purchasing choice stages. This may most likely be because of our propensities to learn and adjust to methods for the general public as we go through our lifecycle stages, and especially on account of physical advancement, which influence the kind garments we purchase. Since we have cross Sectional data, there might be a presence of heteroscedaticity. In order to cure heteroscedasticity, we use the General White’s test and see the following result:- We take the null of homoscedasticity. The higher the P-Value, more we do not reject the null of homoscedasticity. In order to carry on with the research, we need a more fitted model . Graph 8 Fit of all the variables with Consumer Demand From the above graphs we see how well the consumer demand fits with the independent variables like age, shopping intensity, shopping frequency, shopping temptation, shopping brands, shopping requirements and shopping place. After we run an Chi-Square test on the available data on Ornaments (Jewellery) we get the following results as shown in Table 2, 3 and 4. Table 2 Table 3 Table 4 The study investigated that there is significance between consumer’s age and their choice of brands related to ornaments. We compute a chi-square test. The graphs and the Chi-Square test help us obtain an insight into the consumer’s behavior towards purchasing ornaments. The purchase can be made with respect to festivities, investment, marriages or gifts. The research shows that both male and female gender buys ornaments. We can thus conclude that female gender shows attraction towards jewellery mainly because of consumption but male gender purchases it for investment. Maximum female consumers are interested in the purchase of ornaments. The purpose/reason for purchase varies from consumer to consumer. Conclusion This examination adds to the comprehension of buyer purchasing conduct in the attire and adornment market. The significant discoveries of the study demonstrated that the general arrangement of autonomous/independent variables was weekly connected with the dependent variable. These examinations make it conceivable to find consumer choice making guidelines. The climbing economy has made Indian purchasers more wealthy. This study has concentrated on how the purchasing conduct of customers differs. In light of this study, we presumed that, individuals in Pune city have relevant learning about various brands of the Clothes and adornments. Information about garments and adornments vary in light of the age level. The demographic components like age, sexual orientation i.e., gender, capability, frequency and so on segregating the purchasing conduct of Clothes and Ornaments is in view of this study the mindfulness level of purchasers. The majority of the respondents have the important learning on the famous brands. Respondents are very little partial by retailers data. The criticalness of adornments in the nation is obvious from the way that on numerous promising events, jewellery forms a piece of blessings. Jewellery has not just been considered with the end goal of adoration, additionally as a security in times of contingency. This is on the grounds that it is regularly extravagant and can be sold at whatever point there is a critical need of cash. Thusly, jewellery additionally fill the need of protection, which can be relied on. Because of the hugeness gold holds in India, the Indians purchase gold much of the time for weddings, as well as on their adoring occasions. Buyer’s state of mind, attitude and conduct on adornments purchase in Pune City has assumed a huge role. References www.insikapub.com/Vol-01/No-03/07IJBAS(1)(3).pdf worldwidescience.org/topicpages/c/consumer+buying+behaviour.html mailer.oalib.net/paper/2690805 www.technopak.com/files/Indian_Apparel_Market.pdf www.citiindia.com/pdf/Harminder%20Sahni.pdf www.cmu.edu/diertrich/sde/docs/lowenstein/behavioraleconomics.pdf scholarship.law.cornell.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi nowandfuture.com/d2/behavioraleconomicsribe239.pdf www.eia.gov/analysis/studies/demand/economicbehavior/pdf/appendixa.pdf www.nber.org/papers/w7948.pdf Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/plumed/16813142 BOOKS Handbook of Centerport Behavioral Economics, By Morris Altman Behavioral Economic comes of age, By Princeton University ________________________________________________________

Analysis of Techno-terrorism :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers

Techno-terrorism and the Future of Civilization      Ã‚  Ã‚   "Modern terrorism, with sophisticated technological means at its disposal and the future possibility of access to biological and nuclear weapons, presents a clear and present danger to the very existence of civilization itself"--Justice Arthur J. Goldberg. Mr. Goldberg's statement expresses a valid concern that has become an alarming reality. As terrorists trade pistols for airplanes and pipe bombs for nuclear explosives, technology is rapidly increasing the power, range, and effectiveness of attacks that terrorists are able to execute.    We should expect that terrorist attacks will become even more lethal for a few reasons. First, the terrorists themselves are becoming more technologically adept. Second, governments such as Iraq and Syria are providing the wherewithal for attacks against new and more sophisticated targets. Third, religious radicals are establishing new boundaries for mass violence beyond what had been previously anticipated. Finally, the threshold for new forms of attack has already been breached--such as the attacks on technological infrastructure and poisonings of municipal water supplies. Techno-terrorism is the topic of discussion for this paper, however, it is also a topic for legislators, governments, communities, and families to evaluate when molding the world of tomorrow. The purpose of this paper is to examine terrorist ideology and to explore the technology of terrorism and what impact it may have for the future of civilization.    In order to better understand terrorism and the effect that technology may have, one needs to be cognizant of the different elements of terrorism. One dimension to start with is the general strategies of terrorism--how are terrorists trying to accomplish their goals. Tactics--a related component to strategies--stands out as the essence to terrorism. Other elements that will be covered include personal weapons and technological improvements that serve as an added bonus to personal weapons. Lastly, the latest, and most noxious, phenomenon of terrorism is mass destruction--the use of explosives and nuclear warfare.    When I mentioned general strategies of terrorism, I mean that general themes and patterns or lack thereof will be discussed. The summation of the following points explain the focus of terrorism on a unbiased scale. The first of five major themes is the idea that the terrorist act must always have a victim--someone or something harmed by the act--in order for the act to be utilitarian. Second, there are no real targets in which an enemy or adversary is terminated, only symbolic targets.

Literary Analysis “The Kiss”

In the story â€Å"The Kiss† by Julia Alvarez, we see a family with four daughters, a father and mother. The father, who is old-fashioned and strict, has his own ideas of what he wants from his daughters. The daughters except for Sofia, the youngest one, have always done what he has asked for. Sofia does not agree with her sisters and she does what she wants. She runs away with a man, a decision her father cannot forgive. Although Sofia tries to reconcile with her father with no luck, she lets her father know that she has her own way of thinking.No matter how much the father tries to change Sofia’s way of seeing life, in the end he could not. Trying to control a person does not guarantee that the other person will always do what we want. The father of this story is a strong man, trying to control his daughters as if they were small kids. Even when they were grown-ups and married, he always tried to control them. â€Å"They would gather together, without husbands, would -be husbands, or bring-home work, the apartment was too small for everyone, the father argued. † (Alvarez 416) His daughters will do anything to please their father. Even after they’d been married and had their own families and often couldn’t make it for other occasions, the four daughters always came home for their father’s birthday. † (Alvarez 416) They were raised in an old fashion way, and they respect their father. â€Å"But standing up to their father was a different matter altogether. Even as grown women, they lowered their voices in their father’s earshot when alluding to their bodies’ pleasure. † (Alvarez 416) Sofia was different she had her own way of living and did not agreed with her father. She ran away from her house and since then her relationship with her father was not good.Her father did not forgive her for what she did. â€Å"And yet, she of all the daughters, did not want to be the absent one because for the first time since she’d run off with her husband six years ago, she and her father were on speaking terms. † (Alvarez 417) Sofia had always lived her life as she wanted. She had many boyfriends; she also dropped out of school. Her father could not accept her way of living. He found out after searching into her letters that Sofia had an active sexual life. For him this was not acceptable. â€Å"After his initial shock, the father regained his own fury.Are you dragging my good name through the dirt? † (Alvarez 418) After six years Sofia’s father still could not forgive her. Sofia tries to reconcile with him by preparing her father’s birthday party at her house. Sofia prepared everything to please her dad. But after everything that she did, he would still not forgive her. Sofia let her dad know that she had her own way of doing things and her own way of thinking, and he could not change that after all. â€Å"After all her had work, she was not to be in cluded in his daughter count. Damn him! She’d take her turn and make him know it was her!Quickly, she swooped into the circle and gave the old man a wet, open-mouthed kiss in his ear. She ran her tongue in the whorls of his ear and nibbled the tip. † (Alvarez 422) Sofia was different from her sisters and her father never accepted it. I think this made her attitude worse, and when she found out that he would never forgive her, she did not care anymore, and let him know that she would never change. David T. Mitchell comments: Throughout the novel, numerous commentators remark on the poor fortune of a family that consists entirely of girls–â€Å"what, four girls and no boys? while each daughter struggles to free herself from the limitations of a communal designation that strips them of their uniqueness and individuality. Because the label â€Å"Garcia Girls† stands in for the plural identities submerged beneath the faceless anonymity of daughters (who, unlik e their male counterparts, do not need to be individuated as distinct human beings) â€Å"The novel's second chapter deals with Sofia, the youngest of the sisters, who leaves home when she gets pregnant on a vacation trip to South America, and then goes to Germany to convince the baby's father to marry her.Although the couple returns to the U. S. with the baby, the result of this stain on the family's honor is almost complete silence: their father does not mention Sofia's name for months, and even after a reconciliation of sorts the two rarely speak. † (Castells)

Comparison between the “Incident” and the “Travel” Poems Essay

Comparison between the â€Å"Incident† and the â€Å"Travel† Poems Introduction First poem: Incident Keep looking straight at me. Now I was eight and very small, And he was no whit bigger, And so I smiled, but he poked out His tongue, and called me, â€Å"Nigger.† I saw the whole of Baltimore From May until December; Of all the things that happened there That’s all that I remember. Second poem: Travel By Edna St. Vincent Millay The railroad track is miles away, And the day is loud with voices speaking, Yet there isn’t a train goes by all day But I hear its whistle shrieking. All night there isn’t a train goes by, Though the night is still for sleep and dreaming, But I see its cinders red on the sky, And hear its engine steaming. My heart is warm with friends I make, And better friends I’ll not be knowing; Yet there isn’t a train I wouldn’t take, No matter where it’s going. Comparison between the two poems above   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The first aspect to compare between the two poems above is the themes portrayed. In the first poem, â€Å"Incident† highlights the theme of racial discrimination. The speaker in the poem tells the audience how he was travelling in a bus when he encountered an event that he says that he is unlikely to forget. He says that while in the bus travelling to Baltimore, his happiness suddenly turned to sadness when a young boy of his age called him a Niger. In stanza three, the speaker says, â€Å"†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦but he poked out His tongue, and called me, â€Å"Niger†. Niger is a word that is used to sarcastically insult African-Americans living in America. The speaker felt so sad and in the next eight months (from May to December) that he spent in Baltimore; he cannot remember anything else but that annoying incident. In stanza four of the poem, the speaker confirms that he can never forget. He says, â€Å"†¦.From May to Decem ber; of all the things that happened there, That’s all that I remember†.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   On the other hand, the theme in the second poem, â€Å"Travel†, is that of discontentment. The speaker describes her feelings to the audience. She says in stanza threeâ€Å"My heart is warm with the friends I make, And better friends I’ll not be knowing†. In these lines, the speaker says that although she is presently happy with the friends that she has; she thinks the friends that she has not met already may be better. This is a clear indication of dissatisfaction that the speaker expresses.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is also important to analyze the choice of the titles of the poems that the authors use and find out how relevant they are to the poem. The title that the author chooses carries too much weight in the understanding of the poem. The theme of the poem is highlighted in the title, albeit hidden and, therefore, identified after reading the whole poem. In the first poem, the title is â€Å"Incident†. The literal meaning of this word is a happening that is unusual. In this poem, the speaker describes an unusual happening that apparently happened to him. In his context, the speaker experienced an incident. Therefore, the title is very relevant to the poem. In the second poem, the title is â€Å"Travel†. The word travel means movement from one location to another. In the poem, the speaker is discontented by her present state. She longs to move to the next level. She uses train metaphorically to indicate that she wants to cease the next opportunity available and move to the next level. Therefore, the title captures this desire of the speaker so vividly and, therefore, in the context of the theme in this poem, it is very relevant.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The other aspect that needs comparison in these two poems is the choice of the language. The language that the author uses is aimed at making the poem interesting to the reader while bringing out the desired message. In the first poem, â€Å"Incident†, the author chooses to use the first person â€Å"I† in the poem. He allows the speaker to tell the audience about this incident in a direct manner. The reader, who is the audience, is able to connect with the speaker when the speaker talks about himself. For instance, in stanza two, the speaker says, â€Å"Now I was eight and very young,†¦..†. The speaker informs the audience that, at the time of the incident that happened to him, he was eight years old and was very small. Incidentally, the second poem also uses the first person â€Å"I†. The speaker tells the audience about her feelings. This style improves the connection between the audience and the speaker because the poem is about the speaker.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In addition, the two poems have used contracted language in several instances. In the first poem, there is the use of â€Å"That’s† instead of â€Å"That is† in the last stanza line four. This makes the poem informal and makes the readers connect with the speaker easily, especially in the modern times. In the second poem, instances of contractions are numerous. For example, there is the use of â€Å"I’ll† instead of â€Å"I will†, â€Å"isn’t† instead of â€Å"is not† and â€Å"it’s† instead of â€Å"it is† in the last stanza. Again, this contraction makes the poem informal. In the modern times, the poem becomes understandable. The choice of contractions is deliberate. The contractions make the number of syllables in the lines where they are equal to the rest of the lines.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another aspect of the poems that is worth comparison is the use of the rhyme technique in the poems. Both poems have a regular rhyme pattern that serve to make them more interesting to read. The rhyme pattern in the first poem is ABCB. To illustrate this rhyming pattern, it is necessary to pick the last words in one stanza. In this case, the last stanza has last words as â€Å"†¦Baltimore, †¦December, †¦there and †¦remember†. In the case of the second poem, the rhyme pattern is ABAB. The last stanza has the last words as â€Å"†¦make, †¦knowing, †¦..take and †¦.knowing†. The words illustrate the regular rhyme pattern. The same patterns are repeated throughout the poems. The regular rhyme pattern help make the poem rhythmical and lyrical.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is important to compare the mood in each, and the tone used in either poem. In the first poem, the mood is jovial initially as depicted in the first and the second stanza. The speaker expresses his joy when he smiles at the stranger boy. However, the mood changes to sadness after the speaker is insulted by the boy when he calls him Nigger. As the mood changes, so does the tone. It starts as joyfully to a somber one. In the second poem, the tone is optimistic. The speaker is optimistic and hopeful of a better future. However, there is some tinge of negativity in the tone in the first two stanzas. This negative tone expresses speaker’s dissatisfaction about her current status.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The first poem uses imagery when the speaker tells the audience how he saw a boy staring straight at him. He smiled at him. The reader can vividly see the mental image of the speaker smiling at the stranger. In the second poem, the author employs metaphor by using a train to signify different paths in life. The speaker says that â€Å"†¦..Yet there isn’t a train I wouldn’t take, No matter where it’s going† in the last stanza. It means that the speaker is willing to take any path in life although there is no opportunity that is presenting itself. In addition, the second poem has employed personification in the first stanza when the speaker implies that the Train â€Å"whistling† and â€Å"shrieking†.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The two poems have so much in common. The similarities emanate from the choice of the language and the styles employed. Therefore, it is clear that poets have one thing in common as far as their writing skills are concerned. They have a rich background of poetry techniques. They always employ them appropriately to suit the message intended to be delivered. References St, John R. A. Explorations in Literature. Greenville, S.C: BJU Press,  2013. Print. Source document

How to Rename or Define

How to Rename or Define How to Rename or Define How to Rename or Define By Mark Nichol When constructing a sentence in which a term or concept is described in other words or a meaning is given, use these guidelines for punctuating the parenthesis. When using namely, which establishes that one or more examples or names of a thing will be provided, or employing phrases that serve a similar purpose (such as â€Å"for example† and â€Å"that is†), always follow the word or phrase with a comma. The punctuation preceding the word or phrase depends on the structure of the sentence. (The abbreviations e.g. and i.e., representing Latin phrases equivalent to â€Å"for example† and â€Å"that is,† respectively, are discouraged in formal prose in favor of the English phrases except in parentheses or in notes; use the same surrounding punctuation for the abbreviations as for the phrases.) When what follows is a simple phrase and not an independent clause, precede namely and the like with an em dash to signal that one is transitioning from discussing something to providing examples about it: â€Å"Constitutional law defines the interrelationships between various branches of government within a state namely, the executive, the legislative, and the judicial.† Alternatively, enclose the additional information in parentheses: â€Å"I enjoy reading nineteenth-century historical adventure novels (for example, those by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson).† If the word or phrase, and what follows, is an independent clause, start a new sentence or precede the word or phrase with a semicolon: â€Å"I agree with what you said. That is, I agree if I understand what you meant.† â€Å"I agree with what you said; that is, I agree if I understand what you meant.† An em dash may be used in place of the period or semicolon to signal an abrupt addition to the preceding statement, or use parentheses to represent an afterthought. Another option, in place of using namely, is to employ a colon, which among other purposes is used to indicate an expansion or explanation: â€Å"Constitutional law defines the interrelationships between various branches of government within a state: the executive, the legislative, and the judicial.† â€Å"For example,† â€Å"that is,† and similar phrases can be used following a colon or an em dash: â€Å"I enjoy reading nineteenth-century historical adventure novelists: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson, for example.† â€Å"I enjoy reading nineteenth-century historical adventure novelists that is, writers like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.† (Either phrase can precede or follow the examples, but â€Å"for example† usually comes at the end and â€Å"that is† usually appears at the beginning.) Use of â€Å"in other words† as a transitional phrase follows these patterns (the particular method of punctuation depends on the context specific to a sentence): â€Å"We have insufficient funds to continue operating in other words, we are broke.† â€Å"We have insufficient funds to continue operating. In other words, we are broke.† â€Å"We have insufficient funds to continue operating; in other words, we are broke.† â€Å"We have insufficient funds to continue operating. (In other words, we are broke.)† One similar point about punctuation is how to provide a gloss, or a brief definition, as I’ve done in this sentence for the word gloss: Set the gloss off from the term with a pair of commas. Alternatively, enclose the gloss in parentheses, especially if the gloss is a translation: The word is chico (â€Å"boy,† â€Å"child,† or â€Å"small†). Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Style category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Creative Writing 101Proved vs. ProvenGlimpse and Glance: Same or Different?

Relationships between Gods and Mortals in Greco

Relationships between Gods and Mortals in Greco The relationships between gods and mortals are one of the central themes of Greco-Roman mythology. Though gods and goddesses obtain the ultimate power and can rule over destinies of men, they not always are depicted as the voice of justice and sometimes use their might for satisfying their personal needs and compensating for the weaknesses of their character. The popularity of the theme of love affairs between the gods and the mortals can be explained with the peculiarities of the concept of divinity in Greeks and Romans.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Relationships between Gods and Mortals in Greco-Roman Mythology specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Along with supporting humans during their wars and interfering into the earth conflicts, gods often fell in love with mortals though it was prohibited by the divine laws. On the one hand, it can be explained with the weakness of character of gods. On the other hand, realiz ing their enormous power and lack of restraints, the divine creatures could be certain that they just could afford themselves violating the rules without fear of future punishment. There are a great number of examples when the relationships between gods and mortals ended as marriage-type of love. These include, for example, Ariadne marrying ,Dionysus, the Greek god of grape harvest and winemaking, Tithonus marrying Eos, the Greek goddess of the dawn, and Psyche marrying Eros (Cupid in Roman mythology), the god of sexual love. At the same time, there is a wide range of relationships between the gods and the humans without marriage, the so-called lust-type of love. These are the couples of the goddess Aphrodite and her young lover Adonis and relationships between Zeus and mortal women Alkmene, Semele, and Leda. The majority of god-mortal couples bore children who could become a Demigod or a hero. Hesiod, a Greek oral poet even compiled the prolonged lists of mortal women who had relat ionships with gods and children who were born from divine and mortal couples. â€Å"Since many aristocratic families and even entire cities traced their lineages to these heroes, this extensive list acts as a bridge between the Theogony and the world of Hesiod’s audience† (Trzaskoma 131). Thus, looking for their forefathers in these lists, ancient Greeks and Romans rationalized the beliefs in their own divine origin. The representation of the love liaisons between gods and mortals in Greek and Roman myths removes the distinct line between the divine and mortal origin of heroes and changes the traditional interpretation of the concept of divinity as the voice of justice which is deprived of biases. Another interpretation of relationships between the gods and the mortals is presented in Euripides’ play Hippolytus in which Artemis as the goddess of chastity rejects to protect her human lover Hippolytus. As opposed to numerous examples of divine lovers who protected their favourites and interfered in the earth affairs, Artemis decides to take revenge on Aphrodite who kills her lover in future by killing Aphrodite’s next mortal favorite.Advertising Looking for essay on literature languages? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The goddess of chastity admits that â€Å"This is the settled custom of the gods: no one may fly in the face of anothers wish: we remain aloof and neutral† (Euripides 69). This interpretation of the divine rules contradicts a plenty of examples from the Greek and Roman myths in which the gods and goddesses make attempts to ruin plans of other gods for the purpose of achieving their own goals. At the same time, one of possible explanations of Artemis’ choice can be found in the peculiarities of her sphere. The goddess of chastity is expected to follow the rules even violating her own interests. Still, this perspective on both the relationsh ips between the gods and gods and mortals is valuable for presenting the wide range of existing approaches to defining the concept of divinity in Greeks and Romans. As opposed to pure and innocent feelings of Artemis, the plot of another Euripides’ play Ion is based on lust kind of relationships between gods and mortals. According to the myth, the god Apollo raped Creusa and she bore a child Ion, one of the main protagonists of the play. Though these events are not depicted in the work, this background information is central for interpreting the following development of the events. The play depicts the destiny of Ion who does not know who his parents are till the end when the truth is disclosed. The theme of destiny of half-divine children who are sometimes regarded as bastards is central for the play because Apollo’s act ruined lives of several mortals, making them suffer. The Apollo-Creusa liaison can be considered as one of the most disgusting examples of lust kind of relationships between the divine and mortal characters in all the Greek and Roman mythology which, however, adds new shades of meaning to the interpretation of the concept of deity by ancient people. Instead of separating the worlds of gods and mortals, Greek and Romans depict the numerous examples of liaisons between divine and human characters in their myths, expressing their unique views on deity and the weaknesses of gods. Euripides, Moses Hadas, John McLean. Ten Plays by Euripides. New York: Bantam Books. 1981. Print. Trzaskoma, Stephen, Scott Smith, and Stephen Brunet (eds.) Anthology of Classical Myth: Primary Sources in Translation. Cambridge: Hackett Publishing Company. 2004. Print.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Relationships between Gods and Mortals in Greco-Roman Mythology specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More

Using Italian Reflexive Pronouns

Using Italian Reflexive Pronouns In a reflexive sentence the action of the verb reverts to the subject, as in the following examples: I wash myself. They enjoy themselves. In reflexive sentences, Italian verbs, like English verbs, are conjugated with reflexive pronouns. Reflexive pronouns (i pronomi riflessivi) are identical in form to  direct object pronouns, except for the third person form  si  (the third person singular and plural form). SINGULAR PLURAL mi myself ci ourselves ti yourself vi yourselves si himself, herself, itself, yourself (formal) si themselves, yourselves (formal) Just like direct object pronouns, reflexive pronouns are placed before a conjugated verb or attached to the infinitive. If the infinitive is preceded by a form of  dovere,  potere, or  volere, the reflexive pronoun is either attached to the infinitive (which drops its final  Ã¢â‚¬â€œe) or placed before the conjugated verb. Note that the reflexive pronoun agrees with the subject even when attached to the infinitive. Mi  alzo.  (I’m getting up.)Voglio alzarmi.  Mi  voglio alzare.  (I want to get up.) Mi, ti, si,  and  vi  may drop the  i  before another vowel or an  h  and replace it with an apostrophe.  Ci  may drop the  i  only before an  i  or  e. Si  lava tutti i giorni.  (He washes  himself  every day.)Ci  divertiamo molto qui.  (We enjoy  ourselves  a lot here.)A casa,  m’annoio.  (At home, I get bored.)

Small-Cale Chinese Restaurant in Hatfield Dissertation

Small-Cale Chinese Restaurant in Hatfield - Dissertation Example They compare the perceived benefits received against the perceived costs in terms of sacrifices they make. If they are not treated fairly, the perceived customer value is not derived. The study also finds that the two restaurants under study have their own restaurant management methods. One has an authoritative structure with formal procedures and policies while the other nurtures a culture of service, with its roots in the Chinese culture, characterized by guanxi and harmony. Both have created their own points of differentiation. One thrives on food quality and the other on service quality. The study concluded by recommending that restaurants should adopt experiential marketing which would enable evaluating and understanding customers’ point of view, their expectations and perceptions. Customer feedback should be adopted as a strategic imperative which is being ignored by one of the restaurants under study. Employee empowerment is another human resources strategy that should be adopted. While a customer-focused approach is essential the finer details of the strategy would depend on the size of the restaurant, the level of the restaurant, the clientele it serves, the cuisine it has on offer and on the objectives and goals of the company. Acknowledgement The presentation of this dissertation has been a challenging and one of the most satisfying experiences in my academic life. It has been possible to complete this study only with the support, guidance and patience of the following people: Ms Bunce Sally, my tutor, whose patience and guidance has been a motivating factor. She undertook to be my supervisor despite her academic and professional commitments. Her persistence in corrections helped me achieve this level of work. The owners of two... The hospitality sector, being a service sector, maintaining service quality is a major challenge. Competitive advantage and consequent success relies heavily on the service delivered. Globalization and internationalization have made the business environment even more challenging. The delivery of service depends upon several factors, the human resources being the most important factor. Every interaction in the service sector is a service encounter and such encounters take place at various levels. With services being intangible, heterogeneous, perishable and inseparable, how these elements are perceived by the customer would lead to customer satisfaction. Besides, elements of human â€Å"chemistry† may affect service delivery as some might be more committed to successful service encounters (Lashley, 1998). However, assessing customer expectations of satisfactory service becomes difficult. With the globalization of the food industry, the British appetite for global food transform ed national eating habits. Asian cuisine became palatable along with the traditional English fish and chips or burger chips. As per a survey conducted by, Valued Opinions, a company that conducts paid surveys, Chinese food is Britain’s favorite takeaway. A market research report by Mintel also shows that Chinese cuisine has come out on the top for the first time as the nation’s most popular takeaway meal. By now, more and more western people enjoy Chinese cuisine in the UK as they find Chinese food is not just delicious, but green and healthy as well.

Nursing critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Nursing critique - Essay Example The major concepts of the theory center on the environment, nursing, health, and the person. Fundamentally, nursing care focuses on the patients, and the environment mediates an individual’s health. Hence, nursing care should assist a patient to complete self-care. Thus, nurses have the responsibility to assess patients’ ability to provide self-care, as well as, determine the environmental context with the intent of overcoming the health-related limitations. Environment can affect the delivery of quality health care according to Orem’s theory. The Self-Care Deficit Theory originated from Orem’s quest of working towards the goal of improving the quality of nursing, especially in the general health care facilities within her state. Typically, the dissatisfaction, as well as, the concern of lack of organizing a framework for nursing knowledge influenced Orem to come up with the theory (Fawcett, 2001). Orem indicated that many concept models from medicine, sociology, and psychology were the basis of the curriculum in the majority of the nursing education programs. Orem cited the blatant absence of specification, agreement, and fundamental elements that offered guidelines for the identification of nursing problems and organization of knowledge to support her theory (De & Anderson, 2008). Orem formulated the ideas of the theory after she interacted intensively with the nurses in their profession for a considerable time when offering her expertise consultation in Indiana State Board of Health (Fawcett, 2001). The exposure led to Orem to conclude that nursing entailed thinking and communication. Hence, questions centering on the responsibilities of nurses as practitioners of nursing, the reason they offer care, and the results of their work formed the basis for the development of the theory. The theory is useful in practice as it provides it details the ways of meeting the

Early Islam Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Early Islam - Research Paper Example Thus, contrary to what some outsiders may think, Islam did not appear as a separate or new religion. Rather, it confirmed the earlier messages of God to mankind (HQ, 6:92) and took the form of a completion of his messages. Islam therefore has a very close relationship with other religions. Indeed all prophets are seen as brothers, as demonstrated when the Holy Prophet led them all in prayer on the night of the ascension in Jerusalem. Prophet Muhammad is thus widely seen as the ‘Seal of the Prophets’. In particular, Islam gives high regard to the ‘People of the Book’, which refers to Jews and Christians. Allah advises Muslims not to dispute with them (except with better means or in the case of a wrong being inflicted) (HQ, 29:45-49). The beginning of Islam thus stretches back to the beginning of creation itself. The same one God, who sent earlier prophets to guide mankind, also sent the final prophet Muhammad (SAWS). The Quran also describes at length, the li ves of the prophets that were sent earlier, including Prophet Isa (Jesus) and Musa (Musa), peace be upon them all, among others. Racially, the Arabs share a common ancestry with the Jews. Both are viewed in Islam as the ‘Children of Ibrahim (Abraham)’. The linkage of these two races has also been proven genetically. The genetic signature of Prophet Harun (Aaron) has been shown to be CMH as the primary Y-marker, which is found among Jews and in high numbers among Arabs (Kleiman, 161-162). The two races were divided by Ibrahim’s (AS) sons. Whereas the Jews descend from the Prophet Ishaq (Isaac), the Arabs are descended from his brother Ismail (Ishmael), peace be upon them both. This also explains some of the tenets of Islam. For example, the hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) has its origins in the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), his wife Hajar and son Ismail (AS). The three were responsible for building the Ka’ba and finding the well of Zam-Zam (Ibrahim, 219). This holy family is thus respected not only by Jews but also by Muslims. In fact, Muslims regard Prophet Ibrahim (AS) not as a Jew as such, but a ‘Hanif’ referring to his abhorrence for idolatry (Peters, 121). Similarly, prophet Musa (AS) played a significant role in the assigning of the five daily prayers obligatory on Muslims. The relationship between Prophet Isa (Jesus) and Prophet Muhammad is also very close but the Trinitarian Christians have elevated Jesus’ status to such an extent, by ascribing to him Godly qualities, that it becomes difficult to make them appreciate their connection. Suffice it to say, Prophet Isa’s (AS) life is covered in detail in the Holy Quran, including his life as a child that is not mentioned in the Holy Bible. Also, in Islam, Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) is seen as the paraclete spoken of by Jesus Christ. Like Christians, Muslims also await the return of Jesus Christ in the end times. Some Christians even view Islam as an offshoot o f Christianity, as do for example, Ohlig & Puin in tracing its origins of its tenets to pre-Nicean, Syrian Christianity. However, this approach makes the mistake of attributing similarities to one (in this case Christianity) being the origin of the other (i.e. Islam), whereas similarities in beliefs and tenets actually show that both have a common origin. Hence, there are bound to be similarities because God had been sending his messages and prophets

Economic Theory of Capitalism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Economic Theory of Capitalism - Essay Example It can be said that capitalism has had a huge impact on the sovereignty of the states, which have come to depend on it completely. It has, in fact, been said that it undermines state sovereignty because decisions that governments have to make have to put into consideration their impact on international affairs (Anderson 85). An example of this is oil-exporting countries, which heavily depend on the income from this product to fund their national budgets. Moreover, if these countries were to act in a way that displeases the international community, then they would be forced to abandon such decisions through the placing of sanctions on their exports by those countries, which import their oil (Hobson 64). Moreover, because of capitalism, many countries have economic interests in other countries. To protect these interests, it has become necessary for the power to meddle in the political affairs of the weaker ones. This has not only made the latter countries lose their sovereignty, but i t has also encouraged their overdependence on more developed nations for economic aid. In many countries, it has been found that economic power is disproportionately balanced so that a few hold most of the wealth while the rest only hold very little or none at all (Lenin 18). This has created a situation where individuals own the majority of the resources in the society and this has made the gap between the rich and the poor to widen. The rich become richer while the poor have continued to become poorer as the cost of living increases while their income has remained the same. The economic policies of many countries tend to be left in the hands of politicians, who make decisions about things or places they are unacquainted with, lack of adequate information about the framework to design effective and correct policies and programs to facilitate the development of their people. This has led many nations to pursue policies that are detrimental to the equal development of all their citiz ens, as they have tended to secure the status quo; namely, the rich being favored at the expense of the poor, who make up the majority of many societies the world over (Schumpeter 105). The potential for social chaos because of this, as propagated by Marx, is quite possible especially when one considers that the trickle effect policies propagated by capitalists do not seem to work. It is a fact that economic inequality is a reality among the majority of the world’s population and this has come about mainly because of the fact that capitalist policies have become dominant. Despite this situation being rampant the world over, most of the people with the power to make a difference are either unwilling or unable to do so because they do not want to disturb the status quo as it is.

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

GFR - Essay Example Various tests are carried out once the disease is detected which include – Blood tests, urine tests, ultra sonogram and biopsy. Blood is checked for creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. The normal range for creatinine is 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dl and that of blood urea is 7 to 20 milligrams per decilitre of blood. If it exceeds, then the kidney is not functioning properly. The test carried out will also show the level of protein in the blood-(Proteinuria) A reference range which is both cost effective and quick can also be used to check protein levels in the urine. The normal renal protein excretion is less than 150mg/24 hours. The glomeruli normally filters around 75 to 10 mg/24 hours. Albumin is too thick to pass through the glomerulus and may cause damage. Therefore this test would show the damage if any. Normally the albumin that passes through is around 25-300 mg/ 24 hours. Dip stick tests detect albumin levels and if the level of urine proteinnuria is above 2gms/24 hours, it results in glomerulus disease. The maximum rate at which a substance can be cleared from the plasma is the GFR of that substance. Substances which are freely filtered by the glomerulus and are not secreted or absorbed can be used. Creatinine which is a by product of metabolism and is present in the blood can be checked by testing the concentration of creatinine and plasma within the 24 hour period. In acute cases of kidney failure, a dialysis machine is used on the patient because the kidneys of the patient are not capable of clearing the blood of harmful substances including toxins. This machine consists of tubes which are inserted into major veins to filter or purify his blood. In a patient is suffering from renal disease, his GFR an go down to about 50- 60 ml/min and still no symptoms are shown. But, if the GFR goes as low as 15 – 20ml/ per minute then dialysis is definitely

Opinion of experinces at Commonwealth Scientific of Industrial Research Paper

Opinion of experinces at Commonwealth Scientific of Industrial Organization (CSIRO) - Research Paper Example The objective of the organization guides it toward performing certain activities. The objectives of the business in most cases are directly related to the organization’s core business activity. After going through the company’s history, I have realized that the main role of CSIRO is carrying out scientific research for Australia’s benefit and facilitating the application of the research results. Other functions include international scientific liaison, research workers training, maintenance of measurements standards, distribution of scientific and technical information and publishing scientific papers. However, the activities and products of the organization may to some extent affect the society. I believe that CIRO as a reputable organization manages its products well and engages in social responsibility. Given that nanotechnology may have a lot of implications in the future, I hope to find out from my experience in the organization what these implications will be. There are various types of businesses including sole proprietorship, partnership, and limited companies. Each of these has its advantages and disadvantages. With almost no doubt CIRO is a company. Yet again, there are various forms of partnerships that may be established at the institutional level. Organizations normally work together to achieve various goals, sometimes sharing resources and in other cases sharing knowledge. Joint ventures are, for example, established so that the companies involve benefit from each other or gain advantage where there are restrictions in case they go alone. I have learnt that CIRO engages with various organizations at different levels in the course of its duties, something that I believe is beneficial to it. I hope to establish with time which organizations CIRO engages with chiefly, and the relationships that exist between them (joint venture, partnership, research partner†¦). I believe I will appreciate these relationships

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

GFR - Essay Example Various tests are carried out once the disease is detected which include – Blood tests, urine tests, ultra sonogram and biopsy. Blood is checked for creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. The normal range for creatinine is 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dl and that of blood urea is 7 to 20 milligrams per decilitre of blood. If it exceeds, then the kidney is not functioning properly. The test carried out will also show the level of protein in the blood-(Proteinuria) A reference range which is both cost effective and quick can also be used to check protein levels in the urine. The normal renal protein excretion is less than 150mg/24 hours. The glomeruli normally filters around 75 to 10 mg/24 hours. Albumin is too thick to pass through the glomerulus and may cause damage. Therefore this test would show the damage if any. Normally the albumin that passes through is around 25-300 mg/ 24 hours. Dip stick tests detect albumin levels and if the level of urine proteinnuria is above 2gms/24 hours, it results in glomerulus disease. The maximum rate at which a substance can be cleared from the plasma is the GFR of that substance. Substances which are freely filtered by the glomerulus and are not secreted or absorbed can be used. Creatinine which is a by product of metabolism and is present in the blood can be checked by testing the concentration of creatinine and plasma within the 24 hour period. In acute cases of kidney failure, a dialysis machine is used on the patient because the kidneys of the patient are not capable of clearing the blood of harmful substances including toxins. This machine consists of tubes which are inserted into major veins to filter or purify his blood. In a patient is suffering from renal disease, his GFR an go down to about 50- 60 ml/min and still no symptoms are shown. But, if the GFR goes as low as 15 – 20ml/ per minute then dialysis is definitely

Customer Relationship Management and Systems Essay Example for Free

Customer Relationship Management and Systems Essay 1. What concepts in this chapter are illustrated in this case? Symantec Corporation started out with good intentions. Shortly after acquiring Veritas it began an ERP rollout that was designed to standardize and unify the Symantec and Veritas information systems. The goal was to create a single ERP system, within which all of the company’s extensive network of resellers, integrators, distributors, and customers could place orders for over 250,000 different products Symantec offered in the same way. That follows the basic concept of enterprise systems which are based on a suite of integrated software modules and a common central database. When new information is entered by one process, the information is made immediately available to other business processes. Although companies can rewrite some of the software in ERP systems, the software is unusually complex and extensive customization may degrade system performance, compromising the information and process integration. If companies want to reap the maximum benefits from enterprise software, they must change the way they work to conform to the business processes in the software. Although Symantec and Veritas had each used Oracle E-Business Suite 11d prior to the merger, both used highly customized versions of the systems that made integration a daunting task. An overhaul of the combined company’s enterprise systems was needed to join together Symantec and Veritas’s data from key business processes. Enterprise systems help large companies enforce standard practices and data so that everyone does business the same way worldwide. Enterprise systems help firms respond rapidly to customer requests for information or products. Unfortunately, the two companies bungled the implementation of the enterprise system almost from the beginning. 2. What management, organization, and technology factors were responsible for Symantec’s difficulties in overhauling its ERP systems? Management: Most of the issues were due to the company’s shortsightedness in implementing Project Oasis. The initial reaction to the launch of the new system was decidedly negative. Once customers reached a Symantec employee, they could spend up to 20 more minutes troubleshooting problems, and were often told that there was nothing that could be done. There was simply too much change occurring all at once for typical customers to handle. Partners were unhappy with Symantec’s slow response to many of the problems. Organization: The company was unprepared to meet the increased demand for customer support after the rollout. Symantec neglected to coordinate the development of its new ERP system with the launch of other products from different divisions within the company. The changes to the licensing system were not coordinated with the rest of the project. Customers were unhappy with changes to the stock-keeping unit product system (SKU system). Symantec had overlooked the needs of many customers while designing a technically sound but user-unfriendly ERP system. Technology: Both companies used highly customized versions of Oracle’s E-Business Suite 11d prior to the merger. Users struggled to process the large amount of information provided to them and were overwhelmed by the increased number of steps, all of them new, required to place orders. Some smaller distributors and partners didn’t update their systems to handle the new SKUs and were unable to submit purchase orders electronically. After the rollout, licensing became much more difficult for Symantec’s customers and partners, forcing them to wait multiple weeks before receiving their licenses. 3. Was Symantec’s response to the problem adequate? Explain your reasoning. The company initiated a follow-up project named Project Nero. The goal of the project was to recapture the loyalty of customers who were disenchanted by the changes brought about by Oasis. The project reached out to customers and fixed the problems with the information systems to improve response times and streamline operations. The company began by adding over 150 new customer representatives to handle the increased volume of calls, reducing wait times and increasing customer satisfaction. Executives traveled the country to improve relations with angered customers and partners. The company introduced a master list of product releases readily available and standardized its communication methods between departments regarding new projects and change management. Symantec used Net Promoter methodology to measure and increase customer loyalty. The results identified specific criticisms and customer problems and dramatically aided Symantec in correcting those problems. Project Nero helped the company weather the worst of the crisis. However, the company does not release the results of its Net Promoter surveys to the public so the extent to which it has repaired its reputation is unclear. 4. What would you have done differently to prevent the implementation problems that arose at Symantec? Student answers will vary but some of the principles that should be included in their answers are: Even the most careful planning and well-designed systems can quickly go awry if customers are unable to make use of the new system. Enterprise applications involve complex pieces of software that are very expensive to purchase and implement. The total implementation cost of a large system, including software, database tools, consulting fees, personnel costs, training, and perhaps hardware costs, might amount to four to five times the initial purchase price for the software. Enterprise applications require not only deep-seated technological changes but also fundamental changes in the way a business operates. Business processes must be changed to work with the software. Employees must accept new job functions and responsibilities. Most implementation projects fail or experience enormous problems because executives, managers, and employees did not understand how much organizational change was required. Specific Symantec problems that perhaps could have been avoided: †¢ Communicate with employees better to counteract the negative attitude towards the project. †¢ Communicate with customers and distributors better about the upcoming changes. †¢ Make sure all of the systems that were changing were coordinated throughout the organization. †¢ Not change as many systems all at the same time. Even though stretching the implementation out over a longer period may have cost more money, perhaps it would have prevented some of the massive problems overall. 5. If you were a partner or customer of Symantec, would you have switched vendors in response to the ERP overhaul issues? Why or why not? Student answers will vary. Some principles to keep in mind are: Enterprise applications introduce switching costs that make it very costly to switch vendors. Companies become dependent on the vendor to upgrade its product and maintain the installation. Many of Symantec’s partners and smaller distributors were reliant on Symantec and perhaps could not afford to switch vendors. That would mean they would have to switch all of their internal systems at great cost. Customers are often reluctant to switch vendors based on historical relationships. If the problems seem temporary, the customers will hang on. If the problems seem insurmountable, some customers will desert the sinking ship.

Modeling CALL programs in EFL Flipped Classrooms

Modeling CALL programs in EFL Flipped Classrooms Modeling CALL programs in EFL Flipped Classrooms  to Enhance Achievement and Language Learning Attitude Abstract Computer software has been widely used for teaching English language in flipped classrooms. The present study supplied a practical example of integrating Computer-Assisted language Learning (CALL) programs in English courses to flip the teaching process. The kind of CALL integration addressed in this study has allowed much more flexibility in delivering instruction to diverse groups of English learners or at best, to implement individualized instruction. Examples of modeling CALL programs in teaching listening, pronunciation, reading, writing, and vocabulary were implemented in this study. Sixty students (30 control group and 30 experimental group) studying at King Marriott Higher Institute for computer participated in this study. The control group studied through the regular non-flipped classroom while the experimental group studied through implementing CALL programs to flip the classroom. Following the Quasi experimental pre-post design the study was conducted during the first seme ster of the academic year 2016-2017. The results of the study showed that CALL programs in flipped classrooms have improved the students language learning attitude and averaged examination scores to a statistically significant extent. Key words: CALL, flipped classroom, attitude, individualized instruction 1. Background Introduction to CALL What is CALL? The acronym CALL represents a term that stands for Computer-Assisted Language Learning. It refers to manipulating computers in language teaching and learning. Traditionally, it is used as a means of teaching and assessing particular language items. Following the traditional CALL process, the learners are first introduced a rule and different examples, then, they practice varied exercises to test their knowledge of the rule and finally, the computer gives appropriate feedback and awards marks in records to be later checked by the teacher. Levy and Hubbard (2005) define CALL as the field that is concerned with how the computer mediates between the language learner and language learning objectives (figure 1). Figure 1. Levy and Hubbards 2005 conceptualization of CALL Levy (1997, p. 1) defines Computer-assisted Language Learning (CALL) as the search for and the study of computer applications in language teaching and learning. Beatty (2003, p. 7) gives a broad definition of what may go on in computer-assisted language learning (CALL), Beatty gives a definition of CALL that accommodates its changing nature that is any process in which a learner uses a computer and, as a result, improves his or her language. Furthermore, CALL includes issues of material, design, technologies, pedagogical theories and of instruction modes. CALL materials include those which are mainly made for language learning and those which adapt the existing computer-based materials, e.g. video and other materials (Beatty, 2003, pp. 7-8). The History of CALL For more than three decades, computers have been used in language teaching. Three main stages represent the history of CALL: Behaviouristic CALL, Communicative CALL and Integrative CALL (Warschauer Healey, 1998). Each stage corresponds to a certain pedagogical approach. Behaviouristic CALL Influenced by audio-lingual teaching method, Behaviouristic CALL was emerged in the late 1960s and used widely in the 1970s. This stage was characterized by using repetitive language drills, known as drill-and practice. The computer represented a mechanical tutor that never allowed students to work individually, which in turn inhibited motivation. It also implied using extensive drills, grammatical explanations and translation (Warschauer Healey, 1998). Communicative CALL The Communicative CALL initiated in the 1980s after rejecting the behavioristic approach to language teaching theoretically and pedagogically. At this time, personal computers were paving the way for students to work individually at schools. Corresponded to cognitive theories, Communicative CALL considered learning as a process of discovery, expression and development. Advocates of Communicative CALL debated that computer based activities should focus more on using communication forms. Furthermore, software including simulations and text reconstruction program was widely used and developed in this period. Therefore, Communicative CALL focused on what the students did with each other while working at the computer rather than what they did with the computer. Interactive CALL Interactive CALL replaced communicative CALL which began to be criticized by the 1990s. Thus, teachers used more social and learner-centered methods in a response to new second language acquisition theories and socio-cognitive trends. Language learning in authentic social contexts was emphasized at this time. Content-based project-based and task-based approaches were applied to integrate learners in authentic environments, and to integrate and use various skills of language learning. In such integrative approaches, learners try to use a variety of technological tools and progress a continuing process of language learning instead visiting the computer lab once a week for conducting separated exercises. Types of CALL Programs Davies, Hewer, Rendall, and Walker, (2004) divide CALL programs into: Specific CALL software: They are specific language learning programs designed to develop, facilitate the language learning process, like language learning CDs, language learning websites and quizzes. Generic software: They are general computer software designed for general purposes, like word-processors, presentation software, and spreadsheet, that can be used in language learning. Web-based language programs: They are online language learning programs like concordancers, online dictionaries, online encyclopedias, news/magazine sites, etc. Computer-mediated communication (CMC): programs for online oral and written communication like email programs, online asynchronous and synchronous chat, discussion forum, etc. Warschauer (1996) divides CALL programs and applications into two main categories; computer as tutor programs and computer as tool programs. Computer as a tutor refers to CALL programs designed for teaching grammar, listening, pronunciation, reading, text reconstruction, vocabulary and writing. Computer as a tool refers to the most common use of a computer as a tool, and probably the usual use of computer programs for language learning, as word processing programs, grammar checkers, concordancers and collaborative writing. Advantages of computer in language teaching and learning Teaching and learning technologies become one of the most effective areas in the educational system, especially in language learning (Reinders and Thomas, 2012). Today the number of teachers and students using computers and the Internet to teach/learn a second language has increased due to the technology advances (Han, 2008). In order to analyze the advantage of using computer in language learning, Li-Yun Lu and Tang (1996) divide the advantages into three types: the inherent nature of the computer; The benefit of the teacher; the benefit of the learner. The inherent nature of the computer The computer can handle a much wider range of activities, and much more powerfully, than other technological aids. It offers a two-way learning session with the student. The computer can assess the students response. It can also display messages, take the student through subsequent attempts at a question, and even take the student to a different section of package, depending on the nature of the response. The benefit of the teacher The computer presents several aspects of particular promise. Prominent among these is its versatility in handling different kinds of material. For example, the simplest is the one-way presentation of information, in the form of text, graphics, audio and video. Also, the computer can handle question-and-answer routines, simulated dialogues, hypothesis testing, and many other types of exercises. The benefit of the learner The computer also offers many advantages for the learner. Access is one of the benefits. The computer offers the student the choice of when to study particular topics and how long to spend on them. The flexibility makes many educational courses accessible to students who would otherwise have no chance to take them. It is not a dream to make the distance teaching. Many computers can be linked by telephone on special landlines. Alternatively, teachers can send tapes or discs of their materials through the post. Whatever the factors of time and distance, the computer retains its potential for personalized instruction. There is no low attention period as the student waits for his or her turn to come round in class. On the contrary, each student has the computers full attention and can work at the speed best suited to the individual. Flipped Classrooms What is a flipped classroom? The flipped classroom is a recent model of pedagogy in which the regular lecture and assignment elements of a course are reversed. In other words, activities that have traditionally taken place inside the classroom now take place outside the classroom and vice versa. For instance, instead of having lectures during sessions at university, students gather the information largely outside of sessions, by reading, watching videos and listening to podcasts or other audio format (Centre for Academic Development and Quality, 2016). Tucker (2012) adds there is more than one model for flipping the classroom, the core idea is to flip the regular instructional approach: with the help of teacher-created videos and interactive lessons, instruction that used to take place in class is now accessed at home, in advance of class. The classroom becomes a place to deal with problems, advance concepts, and to engage in collaborative and active learning. In contrast to the lecture format, in flipped classrooms the role of the lecturer changes from being a presenter of content to a learning coach. Bergmann, Overmyer and Willie (2011) state that the lecturer is no longer the sage on the stage but the guide on the side. Students become active learners instead of relying on the lecturer as the disseminator of knowledge. Advantages of the flipped classrooms Flipped classrooms have may learning advantages related to sustainable learning, engagement and interaction. Bergmann, Overmeyer and Willie (2011) include several advantages for the Flipped classroom: 1- lifelong learning: learners depend on CALL programs to learn the content before coming to classrooms. Such method of acquiring knowledge, is a lifelong learning skill. 2- Material engagement: in classroom learners complete different active learning exercises that reflect the applications, implications and controversies associated with the material. This engagement highlights the importance of the material in the learners everyday lives and helps them relate to the topics. 3- interaction between learners and faculty: class periods are specified to interactions among the learners. This strategy shifts the focus of learners from the front of the classroom. The flipped classroom moves the faculty teacher from the stage to one-on-one interacting with the students. 2. Method 2.1. Participants and location The study was conducted at the King, Marriott Higher Institute for Computer Science, Alexandria, Egypt during the first semester of the academic year 2016-2017. 60 students (30 control group and 30 experimental group) participated in the study. 2.3. Treatment Two units from CommercialTechnical English Terminology Textbookà ¯Ã‚ Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃƒ ¯Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ªÃƒ ¯Ã‚ Ã‚  were used in this study (Unit 1: Introduction into Business English and Unit 2: Recruitment). The control group studied the two units through the regular non-flipped classroom. The experimental group studied the units through implementing CALL programs to flip the classroom. The researchers introduced the proposed CALL programs and how to use them during the introductory session. 2.4. Instruments 2.4.1. Achievement Test The researchers conducted an achievement test to assess the participants performance. The test is composed of three parts; the first evaluates communication skills, the second assesses vocabulary acquisition and the third is reading comprehension. (appendix I). 2.4.2. Attitude Survey To assess the participants attitudes toward the flipping classrooms in English language learning, the researchers conducted an attitude survey (appendix II). The researchers followed Lickerts 5 range scale in conducting the survey. 3. Results 3.1. Achievement Hypothesis One There is a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of the experimental group students and that of the control group in the post application the achievement test in favor of the experimental group students. To verify the validity of the previous hypothesis independent samples t-test was used. Table (1) shows the significance of difference between the mean scores of the control and the experimental group students in post-testing. Table 1 Significance of difference between the mean scores of the experimental and the control group students in post- testing Group Mean Std. Deviation Levenes Test df t Sig. Control 13.4 1.79 F Sig. 58 5.35 .001 Experimental 15.7 1.57 .31 .57 The data presented in table (1) reveals that Levenes Test F (Equality of Variances) equals 0.31 which is significant at 0.57, t value is (5.35) and significant at 0.001, and df equals 58 which means that there is a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of the control and experimental group in post-testing. 3.2. Attitudes Hypothesis two: Participants have positive attitudes toward flipped classrooms in English language learning. Results of attitude survey are presented in the following table. Table 2 Students attitudes toward flipping the classrooms in English language learning Statement Strongly agree Agree Indecisive Disagree Strongly disagree 1. The flipped strategy helped me to study individually according to my pace. No.12 (41.4%) No.13 (44.8%) No.3 (10.3%) No.1 (3.4%) No.0 (0%) 2. The flipped strategy attracted me to study more outside the classroom. No.11 (36.7%) No.14 (46.7%) No.3 (10%) No.2 (6.7%) No.0 (0%) 3. The flipped strategy helped me to get more knowledge and information. No.9 (30%) No.15 (50%) No.5 (16.7%) No.1 (3.3%) No.0 (0%) 4. In-class activities enhanced what I studied outside the classroom. No.9 (30%) No.16 (53.3%) No.5 (16.7%) No.0 (0%) No.0 (0%) 5. In-class activities make the teacher available to answer questions. No.18 (60%) No.11 (36.7%) No.0 (0%) No.1 (3.3%) No.0 (0%) 6.Working with colleagues collaboratively in class makes me more active. No.9 (30%) No.16 (53.3%) No.4 (13.3%) No.1 (3.3%) No.0 (0%) Close inspection of the data presented in the previous table reveals that the participants have positive attitudes toward flipping the classrooms in English language learning. 4. Discussion The researchers implemented different CALL programs in this study like Natural Reader, Corpus concordancing, online listening Lab and PowerPoint presentations. The selected training units were explained and presented through PowerPoint program and were given to the experimental group students to be studied outside the classroom. Also, the experimental group students were trained during the introductory session on a cocordancing program for enhancing vocabulary acquisition and the natural reader program for developing reading skills. Experimental group students were trained to study the proposed units outside the classroom and to practice different activities in the classroom to enhance what they have studied. On the other hand the control group students studied with the regular method, i.e. explanation in the classroom and activities outside the classroom. After finishing the treatment (2 units) both the experimental and the control group students sat for an achievement test and the experimental group students completed an attitude survey related to the flipped classrooms. The mean scores of the control and the experimental group were 13.4 and 15.7. The results of the achievement test highlights the effectiveness of flipping the classrooms. Furthermore, the results of the survey proved that experimental group students agreed upon flipping the classrooms. References Beatty, K. (2003). Teaching and researching computer-assisted language learning. New York: Longman. Bergmann, J., Overmyer, J., and Willie, B. (2011). The flipped class: What it is and What it is not. The Daily Riff. Retrieved from http://www.thedailyriff.com/ articles/the-flipped-class-conversation-689.php. Centre for Academic Development and Quality (2016). CADQ Guide: The flipped classroom. Nottingham Trent University. Retrieved from www.ntu.ac.uk/cadq Davies, G., Hewer, S., Rendall, H., Walker, R. (2004). ICT4LT Module 1.4: Introduction to computer assisted language learning (CALL). http://www. ict4lt.org/en/en_mod1-4.html. Han, W. (2008). Benefits and barriers of computer assisted language learning and teaching. US-China Foreign Language, 6(9), 40-43. Levy, M. (1997) CALL: Context and conceptualization. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Levy, M. and Hubbard, P. (2005). Why call CALL CALL? Computer Assisted Language Learning. Vol. 18, No. 3. Li-Yun Lu and Tang, F (1996). Computer-Assisted Language Learning. NYU School of Education Department of Teaching and Learning-Multilingual Multicultural Studies TESOL. Reinders, H., Thomas, M. (2012). Contemporary computer assisted language learning. Retrieved from http://www.eblib.com. Tucker, B. (2012). The Flipped Classroom. Education Next. Retrieved from www. educationnext.org. Warschauer M. (1996) Computer Assisted Language Learning: an Introduction.In Fotos S. (ed.) Multimedia language teaching, Tokyo: Logos International: 3-20. Warschauer, M., Healey, D. 1998. Computers and language learning: an overview. Language teaching forum. 31, Pp.57-71. Appendices Appendix I Achievement Test I- Complete the following conversation. (7 pts) Operator: Hello, Frank and Brothers company, ? John: This is John Robert. Can I have extension 3421? Operator: Certainly, . . David: Jack Richardsons office, David speaking. John: John Robert calling, is. ? David: Imsorry hes out at the moment. Can ? John: Yes, Could you ask him to . at 9147 6320. Its urgent. David: Could you the number please? John: Yes, thats 9147 6320, and this is John Robert. David: Thank you Mr Robert, Ill make message. John: Thanks, bye. David: Good bye. II- Insert the following words in the gaps in the text below. (9 pts) Many People looking for work read the . advertised in newspapers by companies and. . To reply to an adevertisment it is to for a job. You fill the companys., and send it along with your CV and You often have to give the names of two.. . If your qualifications match the , you might be. , i.e. selected to attend an.. . III- Read the following extract, then answer the questions. (4 pts) Business is an organized approach to providing customers with different products and services they need. Also word business refers to an organization that provides these products and services. Businesses in general seek to make a profit i.e., they aim to achieve revenues that exceed the costs of operating the business. Prominent examples of for-profit businesses include Mitsubishi Group, General Motors Corporation, and Royal Dutch/Shell Group. However, some businesses only seek to earn enough to cover their operating costs. Commonly called nonprofits, these organizations are primarily nongovernmental service providers. Examples of nonprofit businesses include such organizations as social service agencies, foundations, advocacy groups, and many hospitals. Answer the following questions. 1- Define business and its main aim. 2- Show the difference between profit and nonprofit business. 3- Mention two examples of nonprofit organizations. 4- Propose a suitable title to the extract. Appendix II Attitude Survey Choose the response that best reflects your attitude 1. The flipped strategy helped me to study individually according to my pace. Strongly agree Agree Indecisive Disagree Strongly disagree 2. The flipped strategy attracted me to study more outside the classroom. Strongly agree Agree Indecisive Disagree Strongly disagree 3. The flipped strategy helped me to get more knowledge and information. Strongly agree Agree Indecisive Disagree Strongly disagree 4. In-class activities enhanced what I studied outside the classroom. Strongly agree Agree Indecisive Disagree Strongly disagree 5. In-class activities make the teacher available to answer questions. Strongly agree Agree Indecisive Disagree Strongly disagree 6. Working with colleagues collaboratively in class makes me more active. Strongly agree Agree Indecisive Disagree Strongly disagree à ¯Ã‚ Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃƒ ¯Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ªÃƒ ¯Ã‚ Ã‚  This book is compiled and supplemented by one of the researchers (Dr. ayman Elesery).

The Magic Circle :: essays research papers

The Magic Circle   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Magic Circle, by Donna Jo Napoli dealt with three main characters. In the story a woman named The Ugly One possesses the power to heal. The woman has a beautiful daughter named Asa. The Ugly one is a sorcerer; who also helps sick people who are possessed by demons. The Ugly one becomes a witch after biting the finger off a deformed baby child and desiring an exquisite golden ring.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The main character is The Ugly Sorcerer who is a hunchback. At first she helps deliver children at birth and then she becomes a sorcerer when her neighbor persuades her to learn the ways of a healer. She uses an amethyst stone that is holy so that she can draw a circle known as a magic circle. The circle keeps her safe while summoning demons that try to turn her into a witch. A man asked her to heal his child with an extra finger, but instead of using her powers she simply bites it off and then she foolishly steps out of the magic circle to grasp the once desired ring and is regrettably she is turned into a witch.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A boy named Peter is one of her patients. The Ugly one cures him and they become friends. Peter teaches her all he knows about the devils. Peter is a normal young child who keeps his faith in The Ugly one till the end. Peter turns into a strong young man who is very knowledgeable about anatomy and demons due to his studies in books.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Bala was the neighbor who convinced The Ugly One to heal people. The Ugly One was not sure if the Bala was good or evil because of her name. The letters in Bala's name were so similar to the Devils' names. Bala treated The Ugly one very cruelly and had no respect for her because she was a hunchback. When The Ugly One turned into a witch, Bala was very quick to turn against her and sided with the crowd. The Magic Circle :: essays research papers The Magic Circle   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Magic Circle, by Donna Jo Napoli dealt with three main characters. In the story a woman named The Ugly One possesses the power to heal. The woman has a beautiful daughter named Asa. The Ugly one is a sorcerer; who also helps sick people who are possessed by demons. The Ugly one becomes a witch after biting the finger off a deformed baby child and desiring an exquisite golden ring.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The main character is The Ugly Sorcerer who is a hunchback. At first she helps deliver children at birth and then she becomes a sorcerer when her neighbor persuades her to learn the ways of a healer. She uses an amethyst stone that is holy so that she can draw a circle known as a magic circle. The circle keeps her safe while summoning demons that try to turn her into a witch. A man asked her to heal his child with an extra finger, but instead of using her powers she simply bites it off and then she foolishly steps out of the magic circle to grasp the once desired ring and is regrettably she is turned into a witch.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A boy named Peter is one of her patients. The Ugly one cures him and they become friends. Peter teaches her all he knows about the devils. Peter is a normal young child who keeps his faith in The Ugly one till the end. Peter turns into a strong young man who is very knowledgeable about anatomy and demons due to his studies in books.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Bala was the neighbor who convinced The Ugly One to heal people. The Ugly One was not sure if the Bala was good or evil because of her name. The letters in Bala's name were so similar to the Devils' names. Bala treated The Ugly one very cruelly and had no respect for her because she was a hunchback. When The Ugly One turned into a witch, Bala was very quick to turn against her and sided with the crowd.

Mariette in Ecstasy Essay -- Literary Review

In the book Mariette in Ecstasy, Rob Hansen paints a story of the extraordinary happening at a priory in upstate New York. His depiction of life in the priory is centered around the newly inducted Mariette Baptiste, the young and beautiful daughter of a local physician, and the disputed events that threaten to tear the priory apart from within. Rob Hansen does an incredible job of placing the reader in the priory for themselves and allowing them to see just what kind of life the sisters live. On Mariette’s first day, the women rise at five o’clock to a ritualized call and response, where Sister Hermance shouts, â€Å"In Jesus Christ, my sisters, let us rise!† and the sisters respond with, â€Å"His holy name be praised!† (Page 5). The women follow a rigorous and regular schedule for the rest of the day. Embedded in their lifestyle are a lot of rituals and intricate tasks, which have been almost completely legitimized by their repetition. The women of the priory also live a highly ascetic life, believing that the hard work performed and simple living conditions in themselves alone can give rise to an experience that is greater than anything achievable through other worldly goals. Mariette herself writes prayerfully, â€Å"Were it necessary to give up all the worldly pleasures of my life to gain one instant of happiness for you, I would do it without hesitation.† (Page 135). The way the sisters go about living their spiritual life has a touch of Peter Berger’s idea of masochism to it as well. In Mariette’s talks with Pà ¨re Marriott, she says, â€Å"as I began to meditate on the crucifixion and Christ’s own trials in this world, I became rapt in thought and I found myself again before Jesus, who was suffering such terrible pain†¦An unquench... ... common problem of theodicy. If God is good, why would he not help his own followers and prevent them from being led astray? The act of calling in a surgeon implies that religion is not â€Å"good† or â€Å"powerful† enough which calls into question the order of things within the priory and even the plausibility structure that has been securely established for so long. Ron Hansen for the most part avoids directly addressing these religious issues; instead Mariette in Ecstasy aligns more with what Mikhail Bakhtin argues a novel is, a presentation of many perspectives. In the end these two perspectives both have their own idea of what the objective truth of the presented world is, and while Ron Hansen avoids directly presenting one side as the one that’s right, his novel brings up the existence of more than one side, which alone is more than many similar religious works do.