HUMAN RESOURCE LITER REVIEW Example

HUMAN RESOURCE LITER REVIEW Example HUMAN RESOURCE LITER REVIEW – Book Report/Review Example Unionization in America According to Bohlander and Snell , employees unionize for the following reasons: to meet their economic needs, to adress their general dissatisfaction with managerial practices and to fulfill social and status needs. The clip from â€Å"Bread and Roses† demonstrates the workers’ attempts to organize to fulfill all of these needs. Sam Shapiro specifically points out healthcare and respect at work as the primary reason for the workers’ organization. Throughout the process of organizing the workers have subjected themselves to loss of jobs, insults and deportation in oredr to improve working conditions for all janitors.All in all, unionization is beneficial in our society and is necessary to ensure fair wages and fair treatment of employees. Despite all the laws aimed at protecting and supporting the individual worker in our society today, the individual workers have relatively little power in their relationship with the employer; therefore t hey organize to achieve results they cannot achieve individually (Bohlander they are integral to sustaining and maintaining wages, benefits and workers rights!ReferencesBohlander, G. & Snell, S. (2010). Managing Human Resources (15th Ed). Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning.

Mars Curiosity Rover is Uncovering Martian History

Mars Curiosity Rover is Uncovering Martian History Every day a robotic rover about the size of a small car wakes up and makes its next move across the surface of Mars. Its called the Curiosity Mars Science Laboratory rover, exploring around Mount Sharp at the center of Gale Crater (an ancient impact site)  on the Red Planet. Its one of two working rovers on the Red Planet. The other is the Opportunity rover, perched on the west rim of Endeavour Crater. The Mars Exploration Rover Spirit stopped working and is now silent after several years of exploration on its own. Each year, Curiositys science team celebrates another full Martian year of exploration. A Mars year is longer than an Earth year, roughly 687 Earth days, and Curiosity has been doing its job since August 6, 2012. It has been a momentous time, revealing dazzling new information about Earths neighbor in the solar system. Planetary scientists and future Mars mission planners are  interested in conditions on the planet, particularly its ability to support life. The Search for Martian Water One of the most important questions the Curiosity (and other) missions wants to answer is: what is the history of water on Mars? Curiositys instruments and cameras were designed to help answer that. It was fitting then, that one of Curiositys first discoveries was an ancient riverbed running underneath the rovers landing site. Not far away, at an area known as Yellowknife Bay, the rover dug into two slabs of mudstone (rock formed from mud)  and studied samples. The idea was to look for habitable zones for simple life forms. The study gave a definite yes, this could have been a place hospitable to life answer. Analysis of the mudstone samples showed that they were once at the bottom of a lake filled with water rich in nutrients. Thats the kind of place where life could have formed and flourished on the early Earth. If Mars had living organisms, this would have been a good home for them, as well.   Where Did the Water Go? One question that keeps coming up is, If Mars had a lot of water in the past, where did it all go? The answers suggest a range of places, from frozen underground reservoirs to the ice caps. Studies by the MAVEN spacecraft orbiting the planet strongly support the idea that some episode of water loss to space  occurred. This changed the planets climate.  Curiosity has measured various gases in the Martian atmosphere  and has helped Mars scientists figure out that much of the early atmosphere (which was probably wetter than now) escaped to space. More recent studies have revealed underground ice on Mars, and possibly salty meltwater just beneath the surface in some areas.   Rocks tell a fascinating story of Mars water. Curiosity  has determined of the ages of Martian rocks, and how long a rock has been exposed to harmful radiation. Rocks in direct contact with water in the past tell scientists more details about waters role on Mars. The big question: when did water flow freely across Mars is still unanswered, but Curiosity is providing data to help answer it soon. Curiosity  has also returned important information about radiation levels on the Martian surface, which would be important for assuring the safety of future Mars colonists. Future trips range from  one-way missions  to long-term missions that send and return multiple crews to and from the Red Planet. Curiositys Future Curiosity  is still running strong, despite some damage to one its wheels. That has led team members and spacecraft controllers to devise new study routes to accommodate the problem.The mission is one more step to the eventual human exploration of Mars. As with our exploration of Earth over the past centuries - using advance scouts  - this mission and others, like the MAVENmission and Indias Mars Orbiter Mission are sending back valuable word about the territory ahead, and what our first explorers will find.

Architecture in the Arab and Islamic world Article

Architecture in the Arab and Islamic world - Article Example This is evident in the current magnificent structures dotting Abu Dhabi in UAE that symbolize ultra-modern architectural design that blend Arab and Western culture. The assertion of the author on the historic attachment of Arab architecture on religion bears significant truth. A critical assessment of most of the ancient and some modern Middle East architecture shows indisputable homogeneity in terms of architectural design. In fact, western nations and ancient civilization discusses more architectural borrowing from the Muslims as evidenced in the widespread application of arcs and domes. However, despite geopolitical factors, the pressure of globalization has promoted a paradigm shift towards a culturally tolerant architectural design in Middle East. In this article, the observed architectural techniques that deviate from the traditional Arab style that is increasingly dominating the Middle East is a reality. In regard to the captivating architectural set pieces in Abu Dhabi like The Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, obvious questions need to be answered in regard to the conservative Arab culture. This has been facilitated by increasing multicultural interaction in the wake of increased campaign for environmental care, space economy and technological explosion as noted by the

The Concept of Resilience Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4250 words

The Concept of Resilience - Essay Example As the report stresses resilience plays a major role in the provision of vital ideologies that would emancipate any form of organization from ills, consequently, create a milieu whereby sustainable development would be achievable. It is important to focus on the issue of vulnerability in the context of resilience and development. Vulnerability cannot be alienated from the issue of resilience. Vulnerability to a social issue, leads to the need to devise methods by the concerned countries to come up with methods that would allow them fit in their current situations, either through finding a solution of coming out of the problem undyingly. This paper declares that contemporary studies focus mostly on vulnerability and the implications; it has had on the resilience capacity of the concerned states. In relation to this concept, Oslon indicates that, for communities to survive in today’s tough situations, an understanding of resilience and vulnerability cannot be escaped. An application of resilience machinery would be beneficial for assistance of alleviating vulnerabilities in the society. If a country is able to maintain its systems and its populace despite, the pressures imposed on them, it would be justified to argue that, the country has developed and sustained resilience. In essence, resilience can be defined as, the aptitude of a state to deal with hard-hitting situations in the country. The capacity to recuperate from such tough situations, whether natural disasters, poverty or inflation, may be indicated as resilience adapted systems.

Consider Laertess contribution to the theme of revenge Essay Example for Free

Consider Laertess contribution to the theme of revenge Essay Of the various parallels between Hamlet and Laertes is one of the most telling. From the beginning of the play we see the two in comparable situations, each young men of the court, each seeking university, each spied on by Polonius, each (it would appear) loving Ophelia, in different ways. Therefore, when Laertes finds himself in Hamlets position of having a father murdered, the audience watches with interest to see how he will react, and how this will compare with Hamlets behaviour in the same situation. In fact, although Hamlet points out that: by the image of my cause I can see The portraiture of his Laertes reaction to murder of his father is very different from hamlets, and indeed he is everything which Hamlet rebukes himself for failing to b. He forms the very epitome of a traditional avenger, and almost everything he does forms a contrast with what Hamlet does not do. Immediately as he returns to the court in a riotous head, having recruited a rabble, to aid him in his revenge. Thus we see that he finds both opportunity and means to destroy his fathers supposed murderer as soon as he possibly can. It is sometimes argued that Hamlet has little opportunity, doing the first two acts of the play, at least, to confront Claudius and exact his revenge. However, it is clear that particularly since he is loved by the distracted multitude Hamlet might have actively created such an opportunity for himself, just as Laertes does. Furthermore Laertes is determined that he will dare damnation in order to revenge his father. This is very important when soliloquy beginning, To be or not to be, in which he confesses that the dread of something after death is, in part, what makes him lose the name of action, for again we see hamlets attitude to his task differs radically from that of a traditional avenger. This is also apparent when Laertes says that he would cut (Hamlets) throat I th church ! , since we are immediately reminded that Hamlet refused to kill Claudius, when given the perfect opportunity, because he was in prayer. Hamlets refusal to kill Claudius at this time (because his prayers make him fit and seasoned to go to heaven which is hardly a fitting revenge for a man who has sent his brother to be judged with his crimes broad blown) may if we decide that they are more than just another rationalization (an entirely debatable point in itself) prove that Hamlet reflects more carefully than Laertes on the business of revenge and that he is more caught up in the need for a perfect and fitting revenge. Nevertheless Laertes clear opinion that Revenge should have no bounds, and his immediate and unhesitating action, in comparison with Hamlets continual prevarication, persuade us that he is the more effective avenger. Laertes falls into the same category as Fortinbras, who with his unimproved mettle hot and full seeks revenge on Denmark for winning and taking control of what had been his fathers lands, and Pyrrhus, who brutally kills an old and defenceless man in the name of revenge. All these characters unhesitating and decisive action, and what seems to be their lack of fear at the consequences, throw Hamlets indecisiveness very much into relief, for whilst he can only unpack (his) heart with words, they can sweep to revenge as he longs to. However, it is \Claudius, not Laertes, who actually states that Revenge should have no bounds, which is not only ironic, since it is Hamlets hesitation alone which has saved him so far, but I feel also has sinister undertones, since one would hardly have put such words into the mouth of the clearest villain of the play without implying that this sentiment is also, somehow, villainous. Of course, as Claudius is here manipulating Laertes strong desire for revenge, it would be unwise to attach too much importance to this point, but it is nevertheless interesting to examine our attitude to Laertes attitude towards revenge as opposed to Hamlets. After all, the impetuous approach of the former allows him to believe: ; The people muddied, Thick and unwholesome in their thoughts and whispers. Thus he promptly accuses the wrong man (Claudius, rather than Hamlet) of killing his father. Compare this with Hamlet well aware that all is not necessarily what it seems in Denmark who creates an elaborate plan to catch the conscience of the king before he proceeds. It might also appear to the audience that Laertes defiance of damnation is more to do with a lack of reflection on the undiscovered country than courage in facing it. After all, as hamlet points out: the native hue of resolution Is sicklied oer with the pale cast of thought Laertes is all resolution, untroubled by the words and thoughts, which impede hamlets action. (We never see Laertes in soliloquy, of course, because he is morally certain of what he must do, and does not explore the subject further. ) However, we possibly feel some sympathy with the view that: blest are those Whose blood and judgement are so well co meddled That they are not a pipe for Fortunes finger. Ironically, these words, spoken by Hamlet in praise of Horatio, actually describe the former in some respects, and particularly when we see him in comparison with Laertes. After all, whilst his endless reflection might appear to serve, at times, only to exacerbate and rationalize his delay, at least he can only rarely be accused of being rash. Laertes believes that, That drop of blood thats calm proclaims me bastard. However, this rage, this refusal to reason calmly and to reflect on what has happened, allows the slippery Claudius to manipulate Laertes for his own ends, leading to the treachery which destroys Claudius and Laertes themselves, and Gertrude, as well Hamlet. Ultimately, there is a certain nobility t be found in the exchange of forgiveness between hamlet and Laertes (the final link the latters assurance that: Mine and my fathers death come not upon thee, Nor thine on me! Which is greater than Laertes revengeful triumph over Hamlet. This is not to say that Shakespeares presentation of Laertes serves entirely as an indictment of the process of revenge. Both hamlet and Laertes speak of the honour of revenge, and finally does kill Claudius, that he is justly served. However, I can feel that considering Laertes contribution to the theme of revenge is only useful when seen alongside hamlets reaction to the same theme, and perhaps this portrayal of a traditional avenger who is only useful when seen alongside hamlets reaction to the same theme, and perhaps this portrayal of a traditional avenger who is rash, manipulative and finally self-destructive, allows us to see hamlet in a more favourable light when he is unable to assume the same role as traditional avenger.

The Fab Four :: Personal Narrative Essay Example

The Fab Four In high school I had four teachers that were very important to my success. High school was a good time for me with all my sports, music activities, and Student Council, but it was also very tough. I didn't have many friends. Also, I worried so much about school and "getting the grade", that I often felt very stressed. I also went through a period of a couple years when I was pretty depressed. These four teachers helped me through my difficult times mostly by just being there to listen. I also loved their classes, but I think that more than anything they influenced me because I liked them as people and knew they believed in me. I truly believe that if a student likes a teacher, feels a connection with them, and can develop a relationship, they will be much more interested in the material and will care more and do better. The first two of these teachers, Mr. Oftedahl and Mr. Vepraskas (Mr. O and Mr. V), were my band and choir directors. What amazing people! I love music and often times use music as a form of escape or healing in the rough times. Mr. O and Mr. V were always there to listen to me and offer what comfort they could. I could talk to them as real people, on an adult level. They didn't treat me as a kid with just kid problems. They were very sincere when talking to me and were also very talented musicians. Even though they were my teachers, I know I can talk to them and that they are more than my teachers - they are my friends. Their friendship and open door was what I needed most at that time in my life. The other two high school teachers who were influential were helpful in the same ways as Mr. O and Mr. V, always willing to listen, but they were more. Because of these two teachers, I not only knew that I wanted to teach, but they helped me realize what I wanted to teach. Señorita Brown was my Spanish teacher my freshman and sophomore years. I fell in love with Spanish when I started taking it in 7th grade with the dream of someday traveling to Spain. Señorita Brown helped me to realize that not only did I love Spanish, but that I was gifted in the language and could help others.

The Color

The Color in a space gives more depth and mood to it .When perceived by a person, psychological effects and reactions are made on him or her due to the physiology of color. According to child psychologist Jean Piaget (1954), children during preoperational period (Age 2-7) communicate more with colour than language. He further explains the importance of colour in sensory & cognitive development of a child during this period. Despite of being the most deeply affected group of users, children are presently the least able to influence the design of their own environment. Not only are children seldom consulted about these matters; their needs are often forgotten when such facilities are being designed. Architects design environments which uplift the spirit and enhance sense of well being for People. They are able to modify the way a person would perceive, think about and behave in an environment. In this case Architects have a greater responsibility in shaping the built environment of the Kindergarten where the primary user is the child (Age 2  ½ -5). Since the early education methods are based on principles of child psychology, environments of early learning and the colours used for its ambiance are interrelated and play a vital role in child development. Hereby it is important to understand the type of color combinations required as spatial characteristics to fulfill the needs of Kindergarten activity and to discuss in what extent it is achieved in the Sri Lankan context.CHAPTER 1INTRODUCTION Chapter 1 gives a background of the study, which will establish its needs, objectives, scope and limitations, method and benefits. Background to the subject The manner in which we experience the sense of being in the world has been driven by a pure sensory understanding. Human contact in the world is through the sensory organs that respond through tactile, visual and audible means of the physical environment. Amongst these, colour plays a significant role in visual transfer of information from the surroundings to the perceiver. Colour is first and foremost an experience which permits human beings to enhance the total experience of the world around them. The ability to use the sense of color to an advantage in visual arts, clothing, external architecture, landscape architecture and interior architecture is one of the distinctive features of the human kind (Kuehni, 1983). Unlike the adult human who comprehends his external environment within a complex array of experiences children are mostly extroverted by nature: they not only absorb the many avenues of interest in the environment, but also experience the many emotions it evokes with candour and eagerness. As young children are instantly attracted to colour, it is recognised as one of the best mediums through which they can represent the feelings they realise. (Birren, F., 1976) Faber Birren (1988) states that Children's responses are more colour dominant than form dominant: hence its application in the spaces that children occupy requires a conscious effort. Accordingly learning spaces, such as preschools, colored appropriately, provides an unthreatening environment to the child that improves visual processing, reduces stress, and challenges brain development through visual stimulation/relationships and pattern seeking. (Simmons, 1995).Use of color in early learning spaceAlthough the use of color becomes a very sensitive and important application in preschool environments, is it is wrongly considered a surface application than an actual design element which addresses functional, aesthetical and psychological aspects, of the user. . Therefore it is important to understand that a colourful space does not necessarily provide the appropriate solutions as one would assume a colorless space would not. â€Å"Color for the sake of color accomplishes little that is constructive, just as bleak environments accomplish nothing constructive either† (Mahnke, 1996, p.180). Research has demonstrated that specific colors and patterns directly influence the health, morale, emotions, behavior, and performance of learners, depending on the individual's culture, age, gender, and developmental level, the subject being studied, and the activity being conducted. Mahnke F.H. (1996) states the use of preferred colors and color schemes in preschool environments increases the attractiveness and the sense of belongingness. Producing a fruitful and enjoyable education process†¦ Therefore Children's preference for color should be carefully regarded in the colour application of preschools. 1.2 Objective of the study The main objective of this study is to analyze the use of colour in early learning spaces and its contribution to the kindergarten concept of ‘learning through play'. While it is apparent that color in child environments are necessary what is less clear is the combinations and variations that work as stimuli in a kindergarten environment and work positively towards the learning activity of the child. Moreover, this main objective can be further detailed with the following.To analyze color preferences of preschool children, in relation to age and gender.To analyze the use of color through the identified principles and apply them to the â€Å"Learning through Play† method adopted in kindergartens.To discover how the use of colour in a pre-school environment particularly affects the kindergarten activity, the ambiance and the behavior of the child.  To identify possible colours and colour schemes with the aid of natural light conducive in creating an ideal kindergarten en vironment for â€Å"Learning through Play†.1.3 Methodology Initially the Kindergarten and early childhood education and the concept of ‘Learning through play' is studied through a literature survey referring to Local and international examples of kindergarten architecture to determine the nature or specific features of the spatial quality required. Subsequently theories and principles relevant to color for ‘Learning through play' is reviewed through literature in order to identify key principles relevant to the study: the main intent being to analyze colours and colour schemes used in kindergarten environments through which to establish the colour principles to be adhered in order to achieve the particular spatial quality required for ‘Learning through Play' Once established these factors form the basis for the examination and evaluation of case studies. The data researched to evaluate the key principles will be collected through a process of systematic observation during different times of the day and a field survey. The three case studies will be selected, investigated and analyses through derived principles which form the scheme of analysis: Accordingly, students of three kindergartens of Colombo District will be chosen: each study will contain different colour applications in specific identified areas: namely the classroom, play areas and the corridors which are then each tested against their colour preferences respectively. The results of the studies will then analyze. The research concludes with a discussion on how colour is manipulated and made meaningful in the Kindergarten concept of ‘Learning through play' with an emphasis on its effect on optimum learning. It further discusses other considerations such as location and the levels of light and glare that may be accountable for the variables observed in the study. 1.4 Scope and limitations Study is focused on identifying the â€Å"use of color† with regard to Child behavior patterns and the early learning spaces only. Further limitations of this dissertation are:The user group will be limited to the pre-operational period of childhood (2 1/2 – 5 year old children) of Nursery and kindergarten Method.Interpretation of Colour in Architecture would be confined to the Nursery and Kindergarten Method.Literature reviews on child based research and use of color on kindergarten environments.Case studies are analyzed based on accepted research, accepted theories on colour, childhood development and sensory perception without entering into a discussion on divergent views.Architectural benefits of the studyIdentify which color combinations are more suitable in a healthy learning environment for children.Create an opportunity for discussion to establish a perception on how to use color for early learning spaces.Create awareness for innovative use of color in the conte xt of early learning space design in Sri Lanka.

The influence of journalism and newspaper on the public sphere

The influence of journalism and newspaper on the public sphere Habermas developed the concept of the public sphere to mean that part of life, especially in social circles, where the population can exchange opinions on issues of significance to the common good, so as to form a public opinion. This public sphere is expressed when people gather together to debate issues that are with a political base. Habermas' effort rely on a characteristic historical moment when coffee houses, salons, and societies became the place of discussions during the 17th and 18th centuries and extends this phenomenon to an ideal of participation in the public sphere for today (Mayhew, 1997). The significance of the notion of public sphere lies in the process of debate, which must be modeled to a critical and rational discussion. That is to say that the discussion has rules where emotive language is avoided and focus is laid on the rationality of the contents being debated. The contributors are supposed to have a common attention in truth with no status differentials. Criticism is one component that is considered vital in this process such that the propositions are tested and the contributors or participants can make discovery through the process (Mayhew, 1997). Properties of journalism/newspapers that allowed a public sphere to emerge The media has played a critical role in the emergence of the public sphere. To start with, the press has a wide reach which allows more public participation. Sine early times, the newspaper journalism highlighted political controversies and development. The development of the newspaper in the 17th century was seen as an emergence of a critical organ of a public involved in vital political debate. The recent media has developed to the extent of commodifying news. In addition, publishers in early time took sides with loyalist or patriots. The news brought more controversy and kept the public informed of the political happenings. The editors more often than not created a sphere for political discussions. Changes to journalistic field and the newspapers that present the greatest challenges to a democratic public sphere The emergence of the mass press is based on the commercialization of the participation of the masses in the public sphere. As a result, this ‘extended’ public sphere lost much of its original political touch giving way to entertainment and commercialism. The role of newspapers as a traditional media has become increasingly problematic in today’s democracy. The gap between the democracy ideology and its practice is so conspicuous. The mass communication is lacking credibility in furtherance of democratic ideals. Many theorists have pointed out that newspaper and other journalistic channels separate people from one another and substitute themselves for older places of politics The newspaper has become active participants in the political process through their role in publicity, instead of reporting on the process itself. Furthermore the newspaper has become fundamental to political life. Political participants are required to regularly update with the media's requirement and plan their exposure actively; failure to do so they tend to fall quickly out of favor. Moreover, the lousy â€Å"media performers† assume the same failure. Public debates on television and the discussion columns in newspapers present little aspect of a critical-rational debate. (Thomson, 1995) Plebiscites, research in public opinion and opinion management do not provide a potential for democracy; they are adjunct to public administration rather than a true public discussion. That is they do not present a chance for discursive opinion formation. Manipulation of events is used to provide utmost televisual effects. Debates are modeled such that the extreme opinions clash in order to attain maximum impact and increase ratings. Elsewhere, there is little contribution in regard to the development of discursive public opinion or will. The choice of topics reflects the inclination to proprietal and commercial interests. Television programs that allow audience participation are directed to groups that are not significance for the public view. However, this admission does not guarantee any changes in the power structures within the society. So these programs provide just an illusion of involvement which arouses a feeling in the public that their democratic rights are exercised. As a result of the shifting communications environment, the public sphere is revealed as a platform for advertising. In the process, this realization has invaded the process of public opinion by methodically exploiting or creating news events that draw attention. Aspects of the current media system that present the greatest opportunity for the continuation or renewal of the public sphere The efforts to salvage the public sphere centre on making publicity a basis of logical consensus formation other than controlling popular opinion (Benson & Neveu, 2005). Traditional media can add into democratic functions through action as an agent of representation. The media should be organized to tolerate different social groups to articulate their outlook. In addition, the media should aid organizations to get support through publicity of impending causes and protests. That is the media should help these organizations operate as representatives medium of the supporters view. Presently, the internet presents a great opportunity to many of the things aforementioned. It has the capacity to extend participative democracy in a revitalized public sphere. The structure of the internet eliminates control by the conglomerate media organization. Many more people have access to internet opportunities and debate for the formation of political will. As well, the commodification of the internet is inevitable. However, the traditional media have vast resources and established audiences. The resources include money, expertise, research materials, and photographs while the audience is often willing to accept what they publish. (Mayhew, 1997) Conclusion A public opinion can only be formed if there is existence of a public that engages in rational discussion. The public opinion is a critical authority that balances social and political power and publicity can manipulate it so as to support products, programs, people and institutions. However, there has been a deterioration of the public a phenomenon which is fuelled primarily by publicists (Thomson, 1995). A person's individual point of view when solicited does not comprise the public sphere, since it include a process of opinion formation; for instance, a public opinion poll. Over the years, the notion of the public sphere has been used and linked to matters in media theory which include consumerism and commodification, culture and media ownership, surveillance and participative democracy, and desecration by public relations practitioners, virtual communities mapping, globalization and journalism in the future. The public sphere is still functional, although it is not and will not be the same. Its future lies within the digital media especially with the emergence of the internet phenomenon. (Thomson, 1995) References: Benson R. & Neveu, E (2005): Introduction: Field Theory as a work in progress. Pp1-25 Thomson, J.B. (1995): Advertising, public relations, and the problem of strategic communication, Media and Modernity. Pp119-148 Mayhew, L.H. (1997): The new public. Pp 189-235. New York: Cambridge University Press Thomson, J.B. (1995): Media and the development of modern society, Media and Modernity. Pp 1-80

Test-Taking Tips and Strategies

Test-Taking Tips and Strategies Of all the stressors that come with earning a degree in higher education, taking a test – or exam, rather – often causes the most stress. Tests are rarely simple, most always a challenge, and, worst of all, the student hardly knows what to expect – even those who  have done their work, studied hard and prepared well for the exam.  The key to successful test taking, however, is preparation and avoiding carelessness when taking the test. How to Write a College Research Paper Taking a test demonstrates the student’s ability to understand their course material and use that knowledge ina pragmatic way. There are two kinds of tests: objective tests –true/false, multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank; andsubjective tests – short answer, essay, oral exams. Regardless of the student, their approach to taking tests, intelligence, skill level, or if they have a proclivityfor performing well on tests, here are a few suggestions for the student who wishes to excel on tests. Test-Taking Tips and Strategies Improve test-taking abilities by looking at old tests. When preparing for any test, the student should review previously taken tests to be aware of areas that may require more attention. Each test a student takes in some way prepares them for the next – especially the Final exam. Be early, early, early. The day of a test, the student should one, get up out of bed at an early hour, early enough to get a good, healthy breakfast before reviewing last-minute notes. Also, the student should arrive early to the test-taking site to avoid any stress or panic. Visualize. It’s a health practice for the student to imagine a successful test – literally envisioning themselves going slowly and successfully over each question, performing each in a confident, competent manner, and finishing every question calmly, thoroughly, with the least amount of stress as possible. Be alert, sit upright and, if possible, choose a comfortable seat/chair and location. A great deal of the student’s success in taking a test depends on their ability to stay focused, alert and comfortable. Stay relaxed, confident – and keep a positive attitude. Like visualizing success, the student must not let their negative thoughts cause a poor test performance. They should keep reminding themselves they are doing their best, will pass the test with flying colors, and get on with their day. A few deep breaths also help to maintain focus and composure. Read the directions carefully and avoid making errors due to carelessness. Most tests do have a time limit; however, it is more than beneficial when the student reads all directions Have a strategy. Answer questions in a strategic order, depending on the student’s strengths/weaknesses, comfort level, and understanding of the content. The student may want to answer easy questions first, as sort of a warm-up, which may build confidence, then answer questions with the most point value. On objective test questions, eliminate incorrect answers: This works with multiple-choice questions, true-false questions, etc. If possible, make very broad outlines for essays. This helps the student visualize their written answer, serving as a makeshift formula for a response. If time allows, look the test over once more. Rather than turning in their test right after they’re done with it, the student should hold on to their test as long as possible. They should check to make sure they’ve answered every question to the best of their abilities and not made careless, pointless errors, have mismarked answers, and so on. Also, the student may find pertinent, helpful information, or even an answer to a question, at a different part of the test. Three Steps to a Great College Essay

Vietnam War The Easter Offensive

Vietnam War The Easter Offensive The Easter Offensive occurred between March 30 and Oct. 22, 1972, and was a later campaign of the Vietnam War. Armies Commanders South Vietnam United States: Hoang Xuan LamNgo DzuNguyen Van Minh742,000 men North Vietnam: Van Tien DungTran Van TraHoang Minh Thao120,000 men Easter Offensive Background In 1971, following the failure of the South Vietnamese in Operation Lam Son 719, the North Vietnamese government began assessing the possibility of launching a conventional offensive in spring 1972. After extensive political infighting among senior government leaders, it was decided to move forward as a victory could influence the 1972 US presidential election as well improve the Norths bargaining position at the peace talks in Paris. Also, North Vietnamese commanders believed that the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) was overstretched and could be easily broken. Planning soon moved forward under the guidance of First Party Secretary Le Duan who was assisted by Vo Nguyen Giap. The main thrust was to come through the Demilitarized Zone with the goal of shattering ARVN forces in the area and drawing additional Southern forces north. With this accomplished, two secondary attacks would be launched against the Central Highlands (from Laos) and Saigon (from Cambodia). Dubbed the Nguyen Hue Offensive, the attack was intended to destroy elements of the ARVN, prove that Vietnamization was a failure, and possibly force the replacement of South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu. Fighting for Quang Tri The US and South Vietnam were aware that an offensive was in the offing, however, analysts disagreed as to when and where it would strike. Moving forward on March 30, 1972, Peoples Army of North Vietnam (PAVN) forces stormed across the DMZ supported by 200 tanks. Striking the ARVN I Corps, they sought to break through the ring of ARVN firebases located just below the DMZ. An additional division and armored regiment attacked east from Laos in support of the assault. On April 1, after heavy fighting, Brigadier General Vu Van Giai, whose ARVN 3rd Division had born the brunt of the fighting, ordered a retreat. That same day, the PAVN 324B Division moved east out of the Shau Valley and attacked towards the firebases protecting Hue. Capturing the DMZ firebases, PAVN troops were delayed by ARVN counterattacks for three weeks as they pressed towards the city of Quang Tri. Coming into force on April 27, PAVN formations succeeded in capturing Dong Ha and reaching the outskirts of Quang Tri. Beginning a withdrawal from the city, Giais units collapsed after receiving confusing orders from I Corps commander Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Lam. Ordering a general retreat to the My Chanh River, ARVN columns were hit hard as they fell back. To the south near Hue, Fire Support Bases Bastogne and Checkmate fell after prolonged fighting. PAVN troops captured Quang Tri on May 2, while President Thieu replaced Lam with Lieutenant General Ngo Quang Truong on the same day. Tasked with protecting Hue and re-establish the ARVN lines, Truong immediately set to work. While the initial fighting in the north proved disastrous for South Vietnam, staunch defending in some places and massive US air support, including B-52 raids, had inflicted heavy losses on the PAVN. Battle of An Loc On April 5, while fighting raged to the north, PAVN troops advanced south out of Cambodia into Binh Long Province. Targeting Loc Ninh, Quan Loi, and An Loc, the advance engaged troops from the ARVN III Corps. Assaulting Loc Ninh, they were repelled by Rangers and the ARVN 9th Regiment for two days before breaking through. Believing An Loc to be next target, the corps commander, Lieutenant General Nguyen Van Minh, dispatched the ARVN 5th Division to the town. By April 13, the garrison at An Loc was surrounded and under constant fire from PAVN troops. Repeatedly assaulting the towns defenses, PAVN troops ultimately reduced the ARVN perimeter to about a square kilometer. Working feverishly, American advisors coordinated massive air support to aid the beleaguered garrison. Launching major frontal attacks on May 11 and 14, PAVN forces were unable to take the town. The initiative lost, ARVN forces were able to push them out of An Loc by June 12 and six days later III Corps declared the siege to be over. As in the north, American air support had been vital to ARVN defense. Battle of Kontum On April 5, Viet Cong forces attacked firebases and Highway 1 in coastal Binh Dinh Province. These operations were designed to pull ARVN forces east away from a thrust against Kontum and Pleiku in the Central Highlands. Initially panicked, II Corps commander Lieutenant General Ngo Dzu was calmed by John Paul Vann who led the US Second Regional Assistance Group. Crossing the border Lieutenant General Hoang Minh Thaos PAVN troops won quick victories in the vicinity of Ben Het and Dak To. With the ARVN defense northwest of Kontum in a shambles, PAVN troops inexplicably halted for three weeks. With Dzu faltering, Vann effectively took command and organized the defense of Kontum with support from large-scale B-52 raids. On May 14, the PAVN advance resumed and reached the outskirts of the town. Though the ARVN defenders wavered, Vann directed B-52s against the attackers inflicting heavy losses and blunting the assault. Orchestrating Dzus replacement with Major General Nguyen Van Toan, Vann was able to hold Kontum through the liberal application of American airpower and ARVN counterattacks. By early June, PAVN forces began withdrawing west. Easter Offensive Aftermath With PAVN forces halted on all fronts, ARVN troops began a counterattack around Hue. This was supported by Operations Freedom Train (beginning in April) and Linebacker (beginning in May) which saw American aircraft striking at a variety of targets in North Vietnam. Led by Truong, ARVN forces recaptured the lost firebases and defeated the final PAVN attacks against the city. On June 28, Truong launched Operation Lam Son 72 which saw his forces reach Quang Tri in ten days. Wishing to bypass and isolate the city, he was overruled by Thieu who demanded its recapture. After heavy fighting, it fell on July 14. Exhausted after their efforts, both sides halted following the citys fall. The Easter Offensive cost the North Vietnamese around 40,000 killed and 60,000 wounded/missing. ARVN and American losses are estimated at 10,000 killed, 33,000 wounded, and 3,500 missing. Though the offensive was defeated, PAVN forces continued to occupy around ten percent of South Vietnam after its conclusion. As a result of the offensive, both sides softened their stance in Paris and were more willing to make concessions during negotiations.

Food Insecurity and Soup Kitchens Research Paper

Food Insecurity and Soup Kitchens - Research Paper Example Introduction Food security is the â€Å"consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life† according to Nord, Hooper & Hopwood (p.1). On the other hand, â€Å"very low food security† refers to a reduction of food intake and disruption of eating patterns in households due to a lack of money and other resources for food during particular times of the year (Nord, Andrews & Carlson 5). Adequate food is essential for good health and good nutrition. Economic policy and program regimes that support the fundamental factors related to food security are capable of reducing health inequalities. On comparing Canada and the United States on the impact of food insecurity, it was found that in Canada’s levels of food insecurity are lower than that of the U.S., indicating that Canada’s is more food secure as a result of various measures, and the success of governmental and private programs in alleviating hunger. Further, problems and solutions related to food i nsecurity conceptualized for Binghamton area of New York will be conceptualized on the basis of a survey conducted and census information. Food Insecurity in Canada and in the United States Canada and the United States significantly differ in the proportions of their populations that have consistent access to sufficient food for active, healthy living. ... households twice as likely to be food insecure in relation to Canadian households with children. The important parameters that impact food insecurity across the world include income adequacy, education, household structure, presence or absence of children, residence area, and other factors. Nord et al (p.16) state that these parameters should be considered in the context of the different social, economic, program and policy systems of Canada and the United States, to achieve a better understanding of the impact of these factors on household food security. Canada’s Action Plan for Food Security in response to the World Food Summit commitment to reduce food insecurity by 2015, builds on several existing international commitments which affect food security. These emerge from current domestic programs such as Canada’s own â€Å"Nutrition for Health: An Agenda for Action; Gathering Strength: Canada’s Aboriginal Action Plan; revisions to legislation including the Fish eries Act† (Agriculture and Agri-Food, Canada 5) and Canada’s evolving economic, social and environmental programs and policies. A Joint Consultative Group (JCG) composed of both government and civil society representatives have developed the Action Plan. In 2009 the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) â€Å"announced food security as a priority theme and pledged an additional $600 million over 3 years in support of this theme† (CFSPG 1). The government’s program has been successful to a certain extent. To augment the work of the government, there have been private organizers rallying forces under the banner of food security. Thus, local efforts in Canada include the setting up of food pantries, treatment of chronic diseases related to malnutrition,