Critically Discuss How Identity Is Successfully Used As A Form Of Organizational Control

Introduction The aim of this essay is to develop an understanding of identity and critically analyze how identity can be successfully used in an organizational control. It will provide a critique of dominant perspectives and frameworks in organizational identity that are obtained by studies in various academic materials, by referring to theories and research in related experiences and case studies. Meanwhile, positive and negative impacts of use of identity in organizational control will be estimated. Finally, a brief conclusion will be conducted and relevant considerations will be presented so as to effectively look at the use of identity regulation as organizational control. In order to better understand identity in organization studies, this essay will firstly aim to distinguish the difference between the terms ‘personality’ and ‘identity’. According to Kenny et al. (2011), personality can be defined as the integration of characteristics patterns of thoughts, emotions and behaviors that form an individual’s unique character. It is usually relatively stable for life; however the term identity, on the other hand, can change and turn into multiplicity as influence by external elements, such as social or cultural situations (Kitay and Wright, 2007). This change is because most people would like to associate themselves with a number of identities, while those significant identities will permit people to better believe in the occupation they do (Kitay and Wright, 2007). This has been further explained by Kenny et al. (2011, p.3) who state that identity can involve identification with factors (local context, culture and history ) that people call ‘our personality’ but can also belong to ‘group membership’, which particularly emerges in the workplace. According to the research of scholars in different sectors, identity has been systemically defined in different theoretical perspectives and is also seen as a social category or ‘label’ in workplaces. Henri Tajfel and John Turner proposed social identity theory as they consider people generally use their experiences to identify themselves in certain social groups and dis-identify with others (Mattewman et al., 2009). In other words, they over-stress diversities with the out-group and underrate diversities within the in-group (O’Conner and Annison, 2002). Similarly, this perspective can be related to the idea of homo-sociability, which considers that people prefer to contact with and accept a person who is more like them, such as same social categories of class, age or religion (Kenny et al., 2011). Moreover, Zuboff (1988) and Brewis (2004) pointed out Foucauldian perspective which states people usually would like to identity with the sounds of thought or dominant discourses, therefore in this regard ‘subjectivity’ becomes the powerful relationship to shape individual identities in society. Foucauldian perspective, to some extent, can be seen as the idea of stereotypes; for example, many organizations will assume managers, especially in senior level, are male rather than female because of the cultural norm (Kanter, 1977). Mead (1934) and Goffman (1969) are two main thinkers in this symbolic interactionism perspective. Mead observes that individuals can constitute of ‘Me’ (how we perceive others to think of us) and ‘I’ (the kinds of attitudes and behaviors we use to interact with others). Similarly, Goffman observes identity as the ‘continuing process of managing how we present ourselves to others’ (Kenny et al., 2011, p.15). Both views can be summed up in that people always establish their self-awareness through social interaction with other people (Gardner and Avolio, 1998). The above acade mic theories contribute a holistic view to allow people to further study ‘identity’ and ‘control’ in-depth. Researchers and management practitioners should seriously consider identity from different perspectives and categories in the society so as to ensure diversity and equality in the organizational management. Identity is a multidimensional concept that can be developed at individual, group and organizational level (Puusa, 2006). Nowadays, there is increasing interest in understand identity in organizational control studies. According to Kenny et al. (2011, p.1), ‘the significance of identity was not simply recognized by management, it was identified as something that could be shaped and controlled by management’. The concept of identity was first looked at from a management point of view by F.W.Taylor in 1911. In his opinion, a person’s identity proves to be a barrier to scientific management (Rose, 1988). As he believed that money was the best and only way to motivate people to work effectively, workers should lose their notion of identity so as to be prepared to fit in to different management models (Kenny et al., 2011). In a lower hierarchy level, Taylor’s theory seems to relatively correct. However, studies have shown that workers resisted these ‘scien tific’ methods as they considered that being a part of the group was more significant than earning more money (Kenny et al., 2011). Thus, it can be deemed that meaningful work is a strong dynamic of motivation and performance, and identity (e.g feeling a part of the group) is one of the important subjective factors that motivate people to work. This is in line with several commentators of the ‘human relation movement’ which states that identity is no longer to be removed by organizational management; for example Maslow’s ‘hierarchy of needs’, and Alderfer’s Relatedness Existence theories. They entirely agreed that employees were stimulated not only by physical factors or money, but also by emotional and social needs in the group (Ross, 1988; Buchanan and Huczynski, 2004). Those needs are strong identification to lead employees to ‘go to extra mile’ (become more flexible and productive) as well as improve their working passi on and enthusiasm (‘discretionary effort’) within the organization (Alvesson and Willmott, 2002). Therefore, it can be asserted that identity is the key engine to driving employees’ internal motivation in the organization. This is also supported by Alvesson and Willmott (2002, p. 621), who argue that identity is definitely ‘a significant, neglected and increasingly important modality of organizational control’. Organizational identity is known as the employees’ view of the organization, which attempts to answer the question of ‘who are we as an organization’ (Kenny et al, 2011). It affords organizations with a feasible framework for understanding their internal behaviors (Whetten, 2006). Albert and Whetten (1985) argue that organizational identity embodies three significant characteristics which are central, distinctive and enduring. Following Albert and Whetten’s (1985) notion, several scholars further identified organizational identity in two different conceptions; realist and constructionist (Gioia and Thomas, 1996; Elstak and Van Riel, 2004). Realists believe that organizational identity is established on the properties of the organization themselves. Conversely, constructionists consider that a set of beliefs is understood by how employees make sense of the organizations. Therefore, through this dynamic, dialectic process it can be proven that employees both shape, and are shaped, by their organizational membership (Puusa, 2006). Meanwhile, it also can further allege that organizations with a strong identity have central attributes, distinctive from other corporations and maintaining that for long-term periods can lead organizations to motivate their employees more effectively and successfully. The positive impacts of organizational identity could appear in several aspects. Firstly, employees will become more self-managing and prefer to approach their jobs with passion and enthusiasm as well as undertaking their responsibilities seriously (Knights and Willmott, 1999). Secondly, it is an essential approach for an organization to attract high-quality employees in order to embrace employees’ desired values and allow them to treat the values as their own (Kenny et al, 2011). Moreover, it can gain and retain employees’ loyalty, commitment and involvement so as to compensate less job security and employment durability in the workforce (Alvesson and Willmott, 2002). Furthermore, managing through shared values, thoughts and feelings have replaced the original ways of managing behaviors (Knights and Willmott, 1999). This has been further explained by Kenny et al. (2011) who stressed that organizations don’t just want to recruit the people who think that they wil l fit into the workplace, but they are now more focused on how to shape employees’ sense of identity after they join. As culture is contingent upon identity, managing ‘corporate culture’ is integral to managing identity, which can be seen as the most common way to shape employees’ self-identity and behaviors (Kenny et al., 2011). On the other hand, organizational identity also brings some problems which organizers have to bear in mind. Firstly, organizational identity attempts to over control employees’ hearts and minds; this can link back to Foucauldian perspective which estimated that employees’ sense of identity can be strongly dominated by ‘enterprise discourse’ (Du Gay, 1996; Kenny et al., 2011). Following this problem, employees’ creativity and innovative skills will minimize or even cannot be discovered in the corporation; therefore it will critically affect organizational improvement and development. Furthermore, employees may feel anxiety or guilty if they attempt to judge or fail to follow the sanctified values of an organization (Schwartz, 1987). Due to the above feelings and matters, ethics has become an ambiguous issue when implementing identity management as organizational control, and it may relate to ‘bureaucratic’ control mechanisms’ probl ems as well (Alvesson and Willmott, 2002). Although there are some negative impacts of using identity as a form of organizational control, there are still many famous companies carefully and successfully designing and advertising their corporate values by managing organizational identity, such as Apple, Alibaba and IKEA (Kenny et al., 2011). Therefore, it can be affirmed that organizational identity is not only focusing on one company or region; it becomes more internationalization and globalization at present. Because of this phenomenon, there are increasing numbers of concentrated issues of identity presented in the workplace as well, such as gender and managerial roles issues; the changing idea of professionalism and the international business activities (Fondas, 1997; Alvesson, 2000; Alvesson and Willmott, 2002). In order to diminish the above issues and manage identity effectively, organizers should provide more opportunity for employees to arrange their agenda and working practices, to maintain a sense of freedom to help motivate people at work, this is classed as ‘micro-emancipation’ (Alvesson and Willmott, 2002). This sense of freedom could be better enforced to show and understand in a new standard form of organizational control, which is called fun organizational identities. This new form not only encourages diversity and allows employees to express their ‘genuine’ feelings in the workplace, but also assists to increase productivity, creativity, inspiration and reduced employee turnover (Fleming and Sturdy, 2009; Ford et al.,2003). For instance, Southwest Airlines is known as a fun organization to work for, which classes employee satisfaction and customer loyalty as more important than corporate profits. They consider people their ‘single greatest streng th and the most enduring long-term competitive advantage’ (Southwest’s Airlines Careers, 2014). Southwest Airlines’ unique identity makes them stand out from all others and delivers benefits to both individuals and the organization. However, there are still a number of disadvantages of having a fun work environment in organizations, such as professionalism at work, reports of sexual harassment and interpersonal conflicts (Ford et al., 2003). Thus, managers should bear those issues in mind and find out solutions as soon as possible so that they can become distinctive to other corporations and reduce the potential risks in the early stage. Organizations should also be conscious of the variation in levels of identification within their workforce (Dutton et al., 1994). Humphreys and Brown (2002) declare that identification is usually a complex and partial procedure, and they defined this process in three categories, which are dis-identification, schizo-identification and neutral identification. And a similar set of classes has been proposed by Collinson (2003) in three levels, these are, conformist selves, dramaturgical selves and resistant selves. Based on these theories, managers should try to use different methods to manage identity so as to stimulate employees to work harder and perform better and also to obtain a high degree of employees who define themselves as a part of the organization (Kenny et al., 2011). According to Kenny et al. (2011), organizations can manage identity in five different ways; these are controlling, concealing, exploiting, faking and shaping. In practice, in order to make employees have a sense of belonging, loyalty and commitment, and be willing to promote the organization’s vision, the organizers should focus on managing their identity in the following ways: a) allow employees to see and know about their career planning in the company, thereby creating hope for them; b) organizations need to explicitly promote the values and vision of the corporation to establish an industry benchmark. For example a hotel brand should treat Accor Hotel Group as their final objective and formulate a long-term, detailed schedule to achieve this goal. This schedule can include how many hotels should open in one year or how this hotel brand can develop in five years or ten years; c) the organization should have strong corporate social responsibility, which includes creating mo re job opportunities, especially for disabled people, environment protection (e.g haze or flood) and good employee welfare (e.g set up a compliant institution so as to protect employees’ benefits). If organizations can accomplish the above steps successfully, employees will feel part of the organization and will be proud of it, and also will put their shoulders on the wheel in order to achieve their career objectives. Additionally, organizations should also manage identity in terms of physical and moral support so as to increase employees’ sense of honor in the group. For example a Japanese senior manager will bow his thanks to the best employees every day, and organizations usually would like to hold some activities to let employees vent outside of their work. In 2010, Foxconn had 18 employees attempt to commit suicide with a total of 14 deaths (Moore, 2012). This example shows the importance of managing identity to motivate employees in an organization. Therefore, managers should take into account Alvesson and Willmott’s (2002) eight methods of regulating identity in organizations, such as knowledge and skills; the rules of the game and hierarchical location, to better understand different ways of managing identity and successfully carry them out in the workplace. Overall, identity is a true essence of who and what the organization is. It is a significant organizing element for everything people say and do in the workplace and it affects the characters, values, communications, decisions and strategies of the organization. Organization with a strong identity becomes easier to make decisions and solve their internal conflicts. Employees can clearly know what is expected of them, understand the company and also feel part of the team. Ethical ambiguities and some other issues still affect the idea of identity regulation in organizational control. Moreover, due to the fast changing pace of business life at present, identity cannot be ‘enduring’ in the organization and it may change with the surrounding environments. For example, the Equality Act 2010 presents a new ‘protected’ status to certain social groups which may influence employees’ sense of identity and identification. Thus, management practitioners have to d eeply understand the different methods of identity management proposed by Kenny et al.’s (2011) and Alvesson and Willmott’s (2002) and then integrate those methods to solve the existing challenges in the working environment so as to successfully use identity as a form in organizational control. References Albert,S. and Whetten,D.A. (1985). Organizational identity. Research in organizational behavior, 7, pp.263-295. Alvesson,M. (2000). Social identity and the problem of loyalty in knowledge-intensive companies. Journal of Management Studies, 37 (6), pp.1101-1123. Alvesson,M. and Willmott,H. (2002). Identity Regulation as Organizational Control: Producing the Appropriate Individual. Journal of Management Studies, 39 (5), pp.619-644. Buchanan,D. And Huczynski, A. (2004). Organizational Behavior. 5th ed. Harlow: Pearson. Collinson,D. (2003). Identities and insecurities: selves at work. Organization, 10 (3), pp.527-547. Du Gay, P. (1996). Consumption and Identity at Work. London: Sage. Dutton, J., Dukerich,J. and Harquail,C.V. (1994). Organizational images and member identification. Administrative Science Quarterly, 39, pp. 239-263. Elstak, M.N. and Van Riel, C.B.M. (2004). Closing ranks: how a collective threat shifts salience from organizational to corporate identity. Best Papers. Proceedings of the 64th Annual Meeting of the Academy of Management. New Orleans. Fondas,N. (1997). Feminization unveiled: management qualities in contemporary writings. Academy of Management Review, 22, pp.257-282. Ford, R. C., McLaughlin, F. S., and Newstrom, J. W. (2003). Questions and answers about fun at work. Human Resource Planning, 26(4), pp.18-33. Fleming, P. and Sturdy, A.J.(2009). Just Be Yourself – Towards Neo-Normative Control in Organizations. Employee Relations, 31(6), pp. 569 – 583. Gardner,W.L. and Avolio,B.J. (1998). Charismatic leadership, a dramaturgical perspective. Academy of Management Review, 23 (1), pp.32-58. Gioia,D.A. and Thomas,J.(1996). Identity, image and issue interpretation: sensemaking during strategic change in academia. Administrative Science Quarterly, 41, pp.370-403. Humphreys,M. and Brown,A.D.(2002). Narratives of organizational identity and identification: a case study of hegemony and resistance. Organization Studies, 23 (3), pp.421-447. Kenny,K., Whittle,A.and Willmott,H. (2011). Understanding Identity and Organizations. Sage publications. Kitay, J. and Wright, C. (2007). From prophers to profits: the occupational rhetoric of management consultants. Human Relations, 60(11), pp.1613-1640. Knighs,D. and Willmott,H.C. (1999). Management Lives: Power and Identity in Contemporary Organizations. London:Sage. Mattewman,L.J., Rose, A. and Hetherington,A. eds. (2009). Work Psychology: An Introduction to Human Behaviour in the Workplace. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Moor, M.(2012). ‘Mass suicide’ protest at Apple manufacturer Foxconn factory. [Online]. (URL http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/china/9006988/Mass-suicide-protest-at-Apple-manufacturer-Foxconn-factory.html). 2014. (Accessed 09 Dec 2014). O’Conner, E.J. and Annison, M.H. (2002). Building trust and collaboration between physicians and administrators. The Physician Executive, 28, pp.48-52. Puusa, A. (2006). Conducting Research on Organizational Identity. Electronic Journal of Business Ethics and Organization Studies, 11, pp. 24-28. Rose,M. (1988). Industrial Behaviour: Theoretical Development Since Taylor. Harmondsworth: Penguin. Schwartz,H.S. (1987). On the psycho-dynamics of organizational disaster: the case of the space shuttle Challenger. Columbia Journal of World Business, 22(1), pp.59-67. Southwest’s Airlines Careers (2014). Southwest’s Core. [Online]. (URL https://www.southwest.com/html/about-southwest/careers/index.html?clk=GFOOTER-ABOUT-CAREERS). 2014. (Accessed 13 December 2014). Taylor, F.W. (2005). The Principles of Scientific Management. 1st ed. First World Library-Literary Society. Whetten,D.A.(2006). Albert and Whetten Revised Strengthening the Concept of Organizational Identity. Journal of Management Inquiry, 15(3), pp.219-234. Zuboff,S. (1988). In the Age of the Smart Machine. New York: Basic Books.

Mixed Ability Grouping

MIXED ABILITY GROUPING Ana Redondo I/ INTRODUCTION: The main purpose of this module is to present to you some general evidences of different researches about method of mixed ability grouping versus other forms of organising pupils in MFL teaching and learning perspective. II/CONTENT 1/ Political context (in England and Wales) * 1944 the educational system in Britain streamed into diferent types of secondary schools, student with special educational needs being educated in special school. Since 1980s central government break up the Local Education Authorities by introducing Local Management of School * 1991-1993, chidren with special education needs into mainstream school, private school: 20-25%, conprehensive school being skew. * Throughout 1990, setting had proved to be effective in many secondary schools for mathematics, science and language. Pupils grouping are cosidered under such pressures: Student’s achievements (examination results), policy and society, local needs and parental choice. / Mixed ability grouping * In the title clerly indicates: ‘Mixed ability grouping’ also refer to a group in which children of varied ability are taught together rather than being set apart. * -No group of pupils is ever homogeneous. Differences in areas: ability, gender, self-concept, self-estem, ethnic background. a. Advantages of Mixed abilitiy grouping * Mixed ability grouping provides all pupils with equality of opportunity and reduces the negative results often associate with homogeneous grouping. It avoids the problems associated with allocating pupils to homogenous groups. * It promotes a good relation among pupils, between teachers and pupils. * Reduce competition and the labelling of pupils. * Low ability pupils are supported more benefit. b. Disadvantages of mixed ability grouping * It is hard to ensure that higher ability Ss are stretched sufficiently. * The meeting the needs of high and low ability pupils can result in failure. Teachers need to be sensitive to aware the differences of in order to set appropriate work, maximize learning outcomes and avoid conflicts between teaching and learning. * Mixed ability grouping makes unrealistic demands on teachers' pedagogical skills. * The majority of the class is often poorly supervised. Mixed ability grouping pose particular difficulties in MFL. 3/ Other forms of organisind pupilss – MFL teaching and learning perspective * Students have multiple intelligences, there for, some are better at certain things than others. Homogeneous groupings are likely to alow teachers a greater opportunity to meet the individual’s needs of students. * Homogeneous groups of pupils can achieve more efficiently in MFL. * Homogeneity of teaching groups- when classes share a greater similarity of learning qualities and characteristic, allows the techer to carry out their teaching more effectively. * It is difficult to allocate students to the appropriate group, no stigma is attached. Both ‘mixed ability grouping’ and ‘ability grouping’ have advantages and disavantages.III/CONCLUSIONS * I suggest here to consider ‘homogeneous groups’ and ‘within -class groups’ as pragmatically feasible options. Seated group work, collarborative project work, co-coperative learning, flexible learning, task-based learning or carousel work can all be applied in various different ways to ensure academic and social learning. (Ana Redondo) * The grouping of pupil is only one of several factors affecting the learning environment of the classroom. The quality of instruction and the curriculum are central. (Halam, 1996:2)

Human being’s personality Essay

It is said that every human being’s personality is molded by the sum of his or her experiences. Personally, I believe that perhaps, a more accurate statement would be that human beings are molded by what they derive from each of their life’s experiences. Hardships in my Childhood I grew up in circumstances that provide a classical example of disparity between appearance and reality. To the outside world my parent’s marriage appeared to be picture perfect. However, in reality, alcohol abuse by my father and domestic violence between my parents had created an environment within our house that, for me, was both difficult and frightening. My father had a drinking problem, and the encounters between my father and mother often escalated into violence. I spent a great deal of time trying to be a peacemaker and caretaker of my parents. Despite my unfortunate situation, I was always determined to be successful. I knew in my mind that the path to success would prove to be a great challenge for a young black female, who was not mature enough or, had emotionally stable guardians to guide her path. Nonetheless I was determined to achieve the goal, I had in my mind. Early in my childhood, sports became more than just a past time; it became a way of dealing with the hardships of a dysfunctional household. As a student, Physical Education became one of my favorite courses; since it was the only time during the day when I was able to enjoy my childhood without thinking about what was going on in my home life. By the time I was eight, my parents separated. My mother and myself relocated from Connecticut to New York City. This transition was extremely difficult for me. Although my parent’s marriage was any thing but stable, my father had always meant the world to me. Over the next few years my mother was required to make a transition from being a â€Å"stay at home mom†, to being the â€Å"sole provider† of our household. Due to dire finances and the inability to afford childcare, I always had a greater than usual amount of household responsibilities over my shoulders. My social interactions at this time were limited primarily to organized school activities. I developed strong work ethics at an early age by spending my weekends bagging roceries at the neighborhood supermarket. My mother did not want me to work but I loved the feeling of earning my own money, since it gave me a great feeling of independence. Worked as a Camp Counselor When I reached the age of fifteen, I started spending my summers working as a camp Counselor, where I was responsible for the organization and development of activities such as, arts and crafts, swimming, and delivering sports related instructions. This was the point when I first became interested in becoming a physical education teacher. I loved the feeling of being in charge and having the younger kids look up to me. Worked as a Sports/Youth Counselor By the time I began college, I was more eager than most freshmen to begin a whole new life, because so much had happened in my past life, which I wanted to put behind. Outside of athletics, I never really had an active social life, so this made my transition to university life very difficult. My undergraduate life had been quite short lived. I had to leave school after only the first semester due to limited finances. Discouraged by the inability to further continue my education, I returned home to work full time as a Sports/Youth Counselor for youths with learning disabilities, emotional disorders, and mental retardation. This proved to be one of the most extraordinary experiences in my life, as it provided me with a chance to interact closely, on a day-to-day basis, with youngsters, whose courage and massive temperament for joy and happiness, impressed me immensely. Their smiles and laughter were pure, even while they battled against significant personal difficulties for which they were not themselves responsible. Ironically, as I worked with these small children I was simultaneously fighting a small battle of my own, resisting my initial resistance and fear of dealing with these children. Before I got to know these youngsters, I was worried that they would detect my discomfort, catch me staring at them, misinterpret something I might have said, or be hurt somehow by my actions or words. In the beginning all of these things appeared to be threatening possibilities. However in reality, once I immersed myself into work, my fear of any incidents happening, disappeared. I began relating to these children in the same as other normal kids. The youngsters soon sensed this and responded well to me. Working with these youngsters made me realize that despite my childhood I was still very fortunate to have health and the ability to be as physically independent. Secondly it made realize that I had been bestowed with the gift of having the ability and passion to help others. Graduation A year and a half later, I returned to Virginia State University as an independent student, more determined and passionate than ever to finally have the opportunity to finish what I had previously started. In between my busy work schedule, I completed a work-study as a student athletic trainer. Although, very time consuming, it was a very exciting job. I loved the rush and excitement of preparing for the day of final game, and the ability of being a part of the treatment protocols, utilized on a daily basis in athletic preparation. This job provided fascinating, educational, and an exciting experience that exposed me to the field of sports and medicine all in one. This was also the major, which I pursued later at the United States Sports Academy as a graduate student. Working as a Physical Education Teacher Upon graduation I decided to take a year off from school, while I focused on settling into the teaching profession. My first teaching position was at the middle school level, in New York City. This experience proved to be the most challenging one. During the tenure of this job, I come in contact with students who displayed behaviors and emotions that were the direct results of some of the same childhood and family scars that I had once faced as a child. It was extremely difficult trying to educate these students without becoming emotionally attached. At the same time it was very stressful, trying to relate to them, and getting them to understand that their current situation would not determine their future status. I quickly came to realize that summer camp and teaching were two totally different professions in their own ways. I am currently a Physical Education teacher and Department chair at high school level. Post-graduation in Sports Medicine I enrolled at the United States Sports Academy to pursue my master’s degree in Sports Medicine, during my second year of teaching. Although I had started to get adjusted to teaching, I missed the rush of being an athletic trainer. At the end of the school year, my college sweetheart and fiance was hired at our Alma mater as an offensive line coach. This position gave me the opportunity to complete my post-graduate intern hours in an environment that was very familiar to me. I was required to make one last employment transition that would have allowed me to utilize my intern skills as a trainer. Development of my Passion for Weight Training During the course of my internship, I was diagnosed with Graves’s disease. This disease directly affected my Thyroid gland and its ability to produce hormones properly. This posed as a major setback not only in my everyday life but also in completing my master’s degree. Shortly thereafter, I suffered from major depression, which caused me to gain over forty pounds of weight and lose the motivation that had once driven me towards success. After a year of feeling sorry for myself and taking prescription medications, which generally left me feeling isolated, or sleeping during the major part of the day, I came to realize that medication was not the long-term answer. I was once again faced with a life challenge that soon exposed me to another aspect of the sport sciences. More determined than ever to get my life back on track, I invested in my first gym (gymnasium) membership. Committing myself to a strenuous weekly regimen, I soon began to experience many physiological and psychological benefits of my investment. My accomplishments in the gym helped me overcome, what a year of medication could not do. It also helped to develop a passion that led me towards the pursuit of my master’s degree. More importantly, it gave me the opportunity to help change the lives of others. My continuous efforts and positive results in the gym deepened my passion for weight training and assisted me in restoring the drive and motivation that had been lost due to depression. Within the following year, I had lost 48 lbs and completed my masters . Working as a Personal Trainer Having lost 48 lbs of weight after joining the gym, I competed in my first amateur body-building competition. Winning this competition gave me a sense of empowerment, that I had the ability to achieve anything in life that I desire. Since then I have won two heavy weight class titles and am currently classified as a pro qualifier in the NPA. In the past year I have received my personal training and nutritional consultants, and group exercise certifications. Fitness and nutrition has been a major part of my healing process along my life journey. I currently work part time as personal trainer in a local fitness center and have started my own mobile fitness business, titled â€Å"Elite Physique Fitness†. I conduct this business along with two fellow personal trainers. We offer services like personal training, group exercises, massage therapy, nutrition workshops, and first aid and CPR classes. My career plans and goals Plans for achieving the Doctoral Degree I plan to attend the academy during the school years as a correspondence student and as a – resident student during the summer sessions. I am currently a Physical Education teacher and Department chair. Besides this, I also work part time as personal trainer in a local fitness center and have started my own mobile fitness business. Although I already have an extensive educational and hands on background in the field of sports and fitness, I feel the need to develop myself in the field of management in order to successfully run my business. My desired area of study is Sports Management with an emphasis on finance and entrepreneurship. My Career Plans After Receiving the Doctoral Degree I plan to teach as a Physical Education teacher for approximately one more year, and then I plan for a transition from being a High school teacher to a University professor in the field of fitness, sport management, athletic training, or sports medicine. Upon completion of my doctoral degree, I plan to expand my current personal training business and increase its reputation within the community in the long-term. My short-term goals are to refine my management skills and develop an organization of knowledgeable professional trainers to accommodate the below mentioned programs. I am really eager to develop an educational program within the school system to deal with childhood obesity. As a physical educator and fitness business owner, I would like to incorporate a â€Å"childhood obesity and wellness program† within the school system. In preparation for this, I plan to utilize information obtained from the research courses to further study and conduct research on childhood obesity and poor nutrition in relation to the issues of academic performance and self-esteem. I also would like to offer â€Å"holistic wellness programs† to corporate businesses. I am strongly interested in developing partnerships within the community to help develop programs, which would address many health related issues in our society. Specific courses that would assist me in completing these goals are personnel management and sports entrepreneurship My Plans For A Mentorship I plan to complete my mentorship training in the field of fitness management. I also intend to apply for membership at American Family Fitness, Golds Gym, and the YMCA. I feel these particular facilities will provide the hands on training needed to accommodate and complete information learned through my coursework at the United States Sports Academy. Reasons For Pursuing The Doctor of Sports Management Degree at the Academy Reasons for choosing the Academy’s program over other doctoral programs I attended the Sports Academy as a graduate student and was really impressed with the rofessionalism of the program and I loved the fact that the program was geared primarily towards sports specific majors. I feel that the Academy will not only provide me with sound and stable training, but will also enhance my skills, which would help me in my future endeavors. It will also give me a great opportunity to network amongst professionals who have already completed the journey of success on which I am still traveling. My desire to pursue a degree in sport management is driven by my already diverse and accomplished background in the field of sport sciences. My Concerns, Choices and Goals regarding the doctoral program Since I feel the need to develop myself in the field of management in order to have a successful business, my desired area of study is Sports Management with an emphasis on finance and entrepreneurship. My aspirations for the future are to help others change their lives and teach them how to begin the healing process through health, fitness and nutrition. The doctoral program would greatly contribute towards my intellectual and personal growth and help me in achieving both my previously mentioned short-term and long-term goals.

Utility of Concept of Marketing to Organizations Essay

Utility of Concept of Marketing to Organizations - Essay Example It also represents the smooth interface between the flow of goods and services for development of a positive business environment. The study will deal with the importance of marketing in the development of business strategies and also other relative business activities within the organizations. It will also highlight the various concepts of marketing which are useful in starting a business and other relative business marketing activities. Finally, the study will conclude the impact of marketing on the activities conducted by the organizations. The concept of marketing helps the organization reaching their goals in a systematic manner also with the intention of creation of customer value. Marketing has not only helped the profit oriented organizations but also to the nonprofits organizations and libraries to large extent to contribute considerably to the benefits of the society. It has supported the organizations to accomplish their goals with the incorporation of marketing concepts a nd the implementation of marketing techniques. Unlike the traditional marketing concepts the modern marketing lays emphasis on the customer needs through the incorporation of various technologies. The concepts of marketing have helped the organizations to identify the marketing techniques to which it can helps in restructuring, orientation of the organization. ... For example the production department of the organization needs the concepts of marketing for the smooth physical distribution of goods and services (Gilbert, 2008). These help in the solving problem related to inventory control, cost minimization and that too within certain limits. It terms of distribution purposes and is solely responsible for the sales response to the company stimuli and also focuses on target markets and buying behaviour. The inclusion of concepts of marketing in providing specialised customer service helps in the goals and objectives, establish the interdependence of physical distribution and marketing (Gupta, 2009). Certain marketing concepts like segmentation, positioning, targeting, exchange transactions, relationships and networks, marketing channels, supply chain and completion help the organization for improvisation overall. This concept assists the organization in several ways for the process of quality control, service and product development by taking i nto account the customer needs and services, awareness of their services etc. It also helps in determining and evaluation of the appropriateness of the existing activity that leads to the development of the product and services. Implementation of the marketing activities help in the business, profit and non profit oriented organizations. However, the manager need to utilize and comprehend certain components of marketing theory which help then in realizing the differences and also the distinguishing between different marketing concepts for selling, promotion, public relations and other functional aspects that are an integral part of the marketing process. It helps in the total contribution of the marketing implementation activities which contribute to the overall

Operational management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Operational management - Essay Example The name Starbucks is actually known to have originated from an American novel named Herman Moby. In 1982, a man named Howard Schultz decide to join Starbuck as he was ones impressed by the culture and popularity of Starbucks’ services and by 1990 Starbucks had expanded beyond the borders of Seattle to the rest of the world (Bussing-Burks, 2009, pp. 1-2). 1.1. Evolution of its strategy over time Starbucks strategies have changed over time since it started its operations in the coffee industry. Mr. Schultz, the CEO has changed the culture of its operations from the small shop in Pike place market in 1971 to the now big company that is known all over the world. Starbucks actually changed the manner in which people perceived and drank coffee. Today Starbucks offer their services with Wi-Fi server customers on the sofa as well as on the sub ways which never used to happen back then. With the management of Mr. Schultz, Starbucks expanded so fast and at some point some of its stingy customers abandoned it (Deresky, 2008). Therefore, the company was faced with financial constraints as there sales volume decreased and its competitors in the industry somewhat overtook them. Starbucks later revived its operation leading again in the industry in 2008 with the help of Mr. Schultz’s management. Mr. ... Therefore, its mission is to inspire and nurture the human spirit at an individual level one at a time with a cup of coffee and in one neighborhood. Some of the company’s objectives is to offer quality products and services through sourcing of the finest coffee beans as well as improving the lives of the coffee farmers. With all the mission statements therein, the company has fully grown internationally (Griffin, Management, 2010, p. 206). 1.3. How effective is the Corporate governance The corporate governance is seen to be very effective since it’s been responsible for overseeing the activities of the corporate powers and ensuring that the firm’s daily activities are followed to the latter with intentions to foster the company’s goals and objectives. The corporate has also ensured that the necessary skills and experiences needed to meet the company’s goals and objectives are provided for at the correct times (Mullerat & Brennan, 2010). The corporat e has been responsible for the welfare of its partners and has, therefore, ensured that the working environment is free from health hazards. It has further ensured that they offer high standard coffee to its customers by purchasing and roasting fresh coffee (Aras & Crowther, 2011, p. 544). The corporate governance has been quite effective in its management since understand that profitability is an essential tool for the future success. 2.0. External Environment Analysis Starbucks has for a long time benefited from its international operations since 1990. Today, Starbucks does not only depend on the U.S. market but greatly enjoys the international market as they have gone overboard in offering their goods and services purposely to boost their revenue and maintain the rate at which it is

Physical Characteristics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Physical Characteristics - Essay Example All scientists do not unanimously accept the latest IAU launched definition of a planet that changed the status of Pluto. They continue to view Pluto as the ninth planet. (Spinrad, 2004), (Stern, 2007) Kuiper Belt is an unexplored region of the solar system that extends from just outside the orbit of Neptune to quite a distance from the orbit of Pluto. It is similar to the asteroid belt in that it consists chiefly of small bodies and one known dwarf planet, Pluto. But while the asteroid belt is made up of metal and hard rock, the Kuiper Belt is composed mainly of frozen objects made up of dust and ice, called KBO's. They vary in size from small clumps of ice and dust to large bodies like the Pluto. It is the revolution of these objects that determines the disc-shaped structure of the Kuiper Belt. If their orbits are interrupted in order to bring them into the inner solar system, they can be seen as comets which turn into gas and dust when they get too near to the sun. (Stern, 2007) During the year 1905, an American astronomer named Percival Lowell, observed that some kind of gravitational force seemed to be disturbing the revolutions of Uranus and Neptune. In 1915, he postulated the existence of another planet beyond Neptune and started his research from his Arizona observatory. Unfortunately, he found his death in 1916 before he could discover Pluto. But his works were carried on by the Lowell Observatory staff, and in 1929, Clyde W. Tombaugh, an assistant at the observatory, took pictures of the part of the sky that was in question with a very powerful wide-angled telescope. The next year he discovered Pluto on three of the photographs. (Spinrad, 2004) However, the newly discovered planet seemed to be quite small to cause interruptions in the orbits of Uranus and Neptune. So, the calculations of Percival Lowell were rechecked by the later astronomers, and were found to be inaccurate confirming no disturbances in the orbits of Uranus and Neptune. Hence, discovery of Pluto was just luck through hard work. Later, in 1978, the U.S naval observatory at Flagstaff observed discovered a moon orbiting Pluto very closely, and named it Charon. (Stern, 2007) In 1951, Gerard Kuiper, a renowned Dutch American astronomer, predicted the presence of the Kuiper Belt. He and his colleagues expected that a belt composed of frozen volatile material might exist beyond the orbit of Neptune, just like the rocky asteroid belt lying between mars and Jupiter. Although the first few searches were unsuccessful, introduction of the charge-coupled device (CCD) in the late 1980's opened up a new gateway to space research. These devices were a lot more efficient in absorbing light than the obsolete photographic technology, allowing them to capture extremely dim objects. Thence in 1992, two astronomers, Jane Luu and David Jewitt, discovered the first Kuiper Belt Object, 1992QB1. (Stern, 2007) Physical Characteristics: Size and Orbit Pluto is approximately 39 times as far from the sun as the earth that is a distance of about 5.9 billion kilometers. It has an approximate diameter of 1,400 miles, which is about two-thirds the size of earth's moon and less than a fifth of the earth itself. (Spinrad, 2004) It takes about 248 earth years to complete a full revolution around the sun, while it takes 6 earth days for a full rotation around its axis. As its orbit is elliptical in shape as

Stress Management Programs Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Stress Management Programs - Essay Example Stress in the workplace can be managed through improved personnel selection and job placement. According to Robbins (1993), people with little or an external locus control tend to be more stress prone. Therefore, it is imperative for the management to ensure that a person has experience or is capable of coping with the demands of the job before he is appointed to a certain position in the organization. In some cases, a person may have experience but incapable of coping with the demands of the job. This aspect is very important in as far as stress management is concerned. The other important strategy that can be implemented by the management is related to goal setting. The use of goals to different individuals helps to reduce stress and they can also lead to motivation of the employees. It is also important for the management to provide goal feedback to the employees since this helps to reduce uncertainties among the workers. Another stress management program that can be implemented is related to job redesign. According to Robbins (1993), job redesigning helps the employees to be more responsible, it gives them more autonomy and it also gives them more control of their work which reduces stress since they are no longer dependent on others. A person who has control over his job is motivated and is likely to be stress free. The other dimension that can be implemented by management to address the issue of stress is related to participative decision making. By virtue of giving the employees a voice to contribute towards the decision making process, the management is in a position of increasing employee control of their work which helps to reduce stress. It is important that the managers should increase employee participation in the decision making process of the company so as to be in a position to minimize chances of stress related problems in the company. The other

Apple Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 8

Apple - Essay Example Under the leadership of Steve Jobs, Apple underwent a period of tremendous innovation that led to the launch of category-defining products for example the iPod, iPad and iPhone. Apple also launched ITunes online store, Apple retail store to complement the electronics. Apple rides on its strengths to acquire and maintain a competitive advantage in a fast growing market that is extremely competitive.2 On the other hand, the increased competition can have ripple effects on the growth and success of the company. Apple has gained a strong market position due to the ‘Apple Eco-system’. The company has a wide range of applications, software and such interrelated products that support each other. The newly released products especially the iTV keep expanding Apple’s eco-system. The company therefore continues to enjoy customers’ trust therefore enjoys a competitive advantage over its competition. Brand awareness is also increased by the high quality customer experience at the Apple retail stores since the staff is always well informed with direct contact with the customers. The stores enjoy maximum profits from direct sales. Apple also has a strong marketing strategy. It employs a strong team of marketers and advertisers who ensure that pricier products are sold and build superior stores that are meant to achieve marketing goals while advertising the products in a compelling way. This advertising trend was started in 1984 when Apple produced a commercial that became famous for a long time which was broadcast during the Super bowl that year.3 Apple unlike Microsoft creates its own hardware and as such, it does not have to depend on other companies to create products that run on its operating system. Apple offers a variety of products that make profits. It is diversified and does not rely on one sole product to make sales unlike Google which majorly relies upon advertising to

An Analysis of the Benefits and Historical Development of Theatre in Essay

An Analysis of the Benefits and Historical Development of Theatre in Education - Essay Example The changes that have occurred within education and theatre are now able to benefit students in developing the craft of theatre more than past techniques, specifically because of the development into new and experimental approaches. The purpose of theatre in education from a historical context was to develop the craft of acting for students interested in performing literary works. However, newer models of theatre in education have created an alternative approach to understanding why theatre is used in schools. The curriculum and the main goals have changed the way that theatre is approached as well as what is used within the classroom for students. The concept of expression is now not only used for the study of acting and literature, but is also used for social and psychological development. When certain plays are interacted by students they have the ability to understand and interact with the information that is linked to this. The first objective that is achieved is instructional, which relates to the classroom teaching and the cognitive process used. The second objective is related to the expressions used. The educational level that is used within this is created specifically for an understanding of social a nd cultural issues that are prevalent in society and which need to be looked into (Jackson, 256). The development of theatre in education is not only important with the implementation and understanding of different cognitive processes. It is also essential because of the extra skills that it provides children with as they are moving through different development stages. Theatre for children that is developed in the correct manner can help with social skills and the ability to work within teams, specifically because of the way that different scripts are developed. More importantly, the use of different scripts can help with the development of communication and confidence. For all areas of academia as well as with

Nutritional Value of Fast Food Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Nutritional Value of Fast Food - Essay Example The sandwich itself comes with vegetables included such as tomatoes, pickles, onions, and lettuce leaves. Thus giving the sandwich more nutritional value for my money. It is a heavy meal because of the proteins that were combined and the Kaiser bun itself is light in texture although quite filling to the stomach. Topping off the meal with a Lemonade drink helps cut the calorie and fat count of the sandwich since acidity in food or drinks has been known to have a positive effect on the intake of carbohydrates and fats. I eat these types of meals at Wendy's about once a week. As a full-time student, I find that I do not have the time to whip up a meal from scratch. Wendy's burgers and drinks offer me a healthy meal alternative that helps me achieve the nutritional needs of my body. I grab the meal to go or for delivery and sit at my study desk as I continue to concentrate on my studies. This type of food gives me the much-needed energy boost that helps me get through my long study sess ions that often last well into the night. Chili's Entree: Grilled Chicken Salad 270 Calories 14 g. Total Fat 4 g. Sat. Fat 14 g. Carbohydrates 25 g. Protein 4 g. Fiber 610 mg. Sodium Drink: Frosty Chocolate Shake 690 Calories 33 g. Fat 21 g. Sat. Fat 92 g. Carbohydrates 8 g. Protein 0 Fiber 210 mg. Sodium Comment: I normally eat at Chili's about once or twice a month depending upon my financial needs for the next 2 weeks. I do not usually carbo load unless I have to, such as when I need to have marathon study sessions or when I need to finish a school paper within a matter of hours. I normally watch what I eat and make sure that the food will not harm my body in any way. Which is why I normally order the Grilled Chicken Salad at Chilies. It is a very filling meal that has a decent number of calories and a very controlled amount of fats in it. Since the chicken is grilled, the skin is removed and the part used is usually the breast which is known to be the healthiest part of the chic ken. It is served with a light vinaigrette on a bed of vegetables that are as fresh as they can come. I often top the meal with a Frosty Chocolate Shake because I have a weakness for milkshakes. The calcium that I get from the shake helps augment my limited calcium intake during the week. Knowing that the food at Chili's is always healthy, I really wish I could eat there more than once a month. But the prices are prohibitive and I need to watch my budget so I always make sure to drop in for a decent and healthy meal every time I have the extra cash on hand to do so. Comment on Student #1: Student # 1 readily shared his experience with eating the â€Å"junk food† of all burgers, that is McDonald's. A McDonald's meal easily satiates one's appetite due to the overwhelming amount of grease and preservatives that go into the preparation of their sandwiches and fries. That is why when it comes to eating fast food sandwiches, it is always best to look for the ones that come with a n utritional rating that supports the sandwich ingredients. His choice of Dr. Pepper is also alarming. Knowing that sodas are laden with sugar and nothing more than that, it was a wise decision for the student to shy away from McDonald's for the rest of the year.  

Organisation Design and Organisation Development Essay

Organisation Design and Organisation Development - Essay Example Therefore, organizational development is one of the most important practices that any organization needs to follow. But, it is very for the management to understand what OD is not because it is not practice of training and development, human resource development, group or team building. It is an organizational perspective but not any individual perspective. Therefore, the main objective of organizational development policies has developed the organization as whole but not to develop an individual staff or to develop a specific division or team within the organization.   It can be stated as a continuous process and not as an acute event. An effectively designed organization contributes in keeping the work environment healthy and job can be done within a structured framework. Organizational development helps an organization to have improved performance on a sustainable basis. The OD practitioners should have strong democratic and humanistic approach to any change in the organization. A collaborative work environment and work culture is the key drive for OD intervention in an organization. Organizational development process involves a number of major interventions that include strategic diagnostic, evaluation of current and proposed strategies, critical thinking, change management, cultural changes, performance management, talent management, learning and development, customer service and sales effectiveness. Finally, organizational development practice believes that each and every areas of an organization is essential to build an advanced system that has strong impact on all internal and external environments where the organization functions.

Major medical condition Essay Example for Free

Major medical condition Essay Virtual communities are a good example of how social exploration is impacted by ICT (and impacts) human interaction. A virtual community is an Internet-based medium where persons can ‘post’ thoughts, ideas, and opinions they would like to share with others. People experience a connection and social interaction through the virtual management of information in a digital medium. The virtual community allows information to be gain an open diversity that promotes the broadening of â€Å"horizons in terms of connecting with people of different backgrounds† (Ward p 101 1999). Citizens of the virtual community are not geographically secluded to their local culture, and therefore the management of information across the virtual community â€Å"seems to add to the interest and depth of the community† (Ward p 101 1999). ICT convergence allows for the Internet to be used for communication in multiple manners. The Internet is the medium where internet telephony, phone text message or SMS, online chat or IM, email, podcast, blog, and so forth take place. There is not another medium for transfer of digital information, but there are multiple and convergent methods (cell phone, computer, PDA) to utilize in the transfer. Internet telephony is one example of ICT convergence that has changes the manner in which society communicates. This refers to technology that enables routing of voice conversations over the Internet or any other IP network. The voice data flows over a general-purpose packet-switched network, instead of the traditional dedicated, circuit-switched voice transmission lines. The home computer or mobile laptop can function as a home based telephone, which allows for multiple social connections to be made. Phone text messages, instant messages, online chat and Short Message Service (SMS) are computer programs that enable two-way typing to connect users to each other. Available on digital networks these allow text messages of written characters to be sent and received via the network message centre to the mobile phone, or from the Internet. If the digital device is powered off or out of range, messages are stored in the network and are delivered at later. This increases the opportunity of social connectivity to overcome the concern of time and place, as messages can now be written and received instantly rather than left on a traditional answering machine, and accessed instantly or at a later time. Society places a profound monetary value on information communication technology. People pay for cellular phone access and satellite television. People purchase subscriptions to access the Internet for the ability to make medical, financial, housing, and even education decisions via digital communication. In 2005, 21 million Americans used the Internet to gain career education (Horrigan and Rainie p 4 2006). 17 million Americans used the Internet to help another person with a major medical condition, where 7 million used the Internet to help themselves deal with a major medical condition (Horrigan and Rainie p 4 2006). Another 17 million used the Internet to choose a college, where 16 million Americans used the Internet to purchase a car, and to make a major financial investment (Horrigan and Rainie p 4 2006). 10 million Americans used the Internet to find housing, and 8 million used the Internet to change jobs (Horrigan and Rainie p 4 2006). Podcasts are a form of digital broadcasting that allows the user to publish audio and video files to the Internet for users to download at anytime. This increases the ability to access media related information. A blog and email are written information that is sent instantly to a destination web site, forum, or individual person. Email is mail or text composed and transmitted on a computer network. A blog is basically a web-based journal that are typically updated daily using software that allows people with little or no technical background to update and maintain the blog in much the same manner as email, simply by typing the message and pressing send. Another significant example of using information communication technology to achieve a desired goal is the blogging community. Blogging is the act of creating and sharing a blog. A blog is written communication published on the Internet. Blogging has changed the manner in which writers achieve their publishing goals of sharing personal information and stories (Lenhart and Fox p 2 2006). There are about 12 million bloggers in America (persons who maintain a blog). 54% of bloggers â€Å"say they have never published their writing or media creations anywhere else† (Lenhart and Fox p 2 2006). Statistically speaking, that is six million Americans who have utilized a blog by managing information to reach desired writing and publishing goals.

Body Image and Eating Disorders: Country Comparison

Body Image and Eating Disorders: Country Comparison Management of Personal Lifestyles Eating Disorders: USA vs. Singapore Yeo Zi Li Jodie Eating disorders are psychological conditions defined by abnormal and unhealthy eating habits involving insufficient or excessive food intakes that affect a person’s physical and mental health. People suffering from eating disorders are often preoccupied with their physique and weight. The main types of eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa. Anorexia Nervosa is a psychological illness whereby patients don’t â€Å"lose† interest in food but instead intentionally restrict their food intake because of the fear of being fat or gaining weight. A person with anorexia disorder may be underweight, but still has intense fear of putting on weight. They may purposely count calorie intakes for every meal to an excessive extent, over-exercising, use laxatives and other methods to get leaner. On the other hand, Bulimia Nervosa is binge eating on food and losing control over food intakes. It involves eating large amounts of food over a short amount of time. Feeling of guilt and shame will follow such binge, resulting in compensating actions such as self-inducing vomiting, over-exercising, not eating, and abusing diuretics, enemas or laxatives. Similar to many other psychological illnesses, Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa are complex, multi-layered disorders that arise from various psychological, mental and emotional concerns that vary with individuals. There are many issues that have been observed leading to eating disorders, but a more prominent reason is due to the ideal body image portrayed and promoted by media which contributes largely to eating disorders among youths. Eating disorders are so common in America, 1 or 2 out of every 100 students struggle with it (â€Å"Eating Disorders†). Figure 1: Seventeen Cover Page Source: Nina Figure 2: VS Love My Body Campaign Source: Parrott Figure 3: VS The Perfect Body Campaign Source: â€Å"Victoria† Statistics in America shows that the ideal body type portrayed in the media is possessed naturally only by 5% of American females. Report shows 47% of girls in 5th-12th grade wanting to lose weight after seeing magazine pictures, and 69% of girls in the same age group reporting that these magazine pictures influenced their idea of a perfect body shape (â€Å"Eating Disorders Statistics†). In America, beauty is portrayed as slim but with a great figure, as shown in Victoria’s Secret’s Campaign. However, media fails to portray that a size 10 can be equally hot as size 6 and beauty is not just about being thin. An Asian body structure is naturally petite as compared to a Western body structure; it is easier for Asians to reach the ideal body image portrayed by the media, which results in a higher rate of eating disorders in America as compared to Singapore. Eating disorders have been regarded particularly to Western society previously; however, they have now become a more global issue with a rising rate of eating disorders cases seen in Asian countries such as Singapore, Japan, Korea, and China (Chisuwa). The ideal body standard not only affects the West, it is increasingly seen in Singapore. In comparison of statistic between Singapore and America, Singapore shows a rough estimation that 80 thousand Singaporeans suffers from eating disorders out of a total population of four million, whereas in USA, 5 million people suffer from eating disorders out of a population of 293 million (â€Å"Statistics†). According to reports from the Singapore General Hospital, more teenagers as young as 13, are being treated at public hospitals for eating disorders. Figures show an increase from 65 cases in 2011, to 75 cases in 2012 and 95 cases in 2013 (Tan). Figure 4: SHAPE Magazine Singapore Source: â€Å"SHAPE† Figure 5: Her World Magazine Singapore Source: â€Å"Her† Similar how magazines in both Singapore and America portray â€Å"fit† with cover girls that are slim and the choice of words used in the front page. It influence consumers’ idea of beautiful being having the ideal shape, or body just like a magazine cover girl. In an interview I conducted with 50 physically fit looking teens and 50 working-class women, the top physical insecurities felt are feeling fat or chubby around their tummy, thighs and arm areas, others mentioned their body physique like having a smaller/larger chest, or too broad shoulders, or not being satisfied with their facial structure. Some commented on avoiding sleeveless tops, white shirts or wearing longer skirts or pants to hide their insecurities. They also talked about how they would try controlling their diets to â€Å"not gain weight† by limiting their food intakes or skipping meals occasionally. Some said the numbers on the weighing machine impacts their perception of how â€Å"fat† they are and they will eat lesser to maintain or achieve a certain targeted weight. When shown a magazine cover page (See Fig. 4), 70% of teens admitted on being envious of the figure and wanting to lose weight to achieve it, while the rest said that it is photo-shopped and i t doesn’t affect them. 40% of the working-class women desire that figure portrayed on the cover page and wants to achieve it, while the rest said it doesn’t appeal to them (See Fig. 6) Figure 6: Ideal Body based on cover girl survey chart In a pilot study conducted with 26 female medical students in Singapore, 58% reported feeling moderately or very fat, despite a mean Body Mass Index (BMI) of 18.7. An alarming figure of four out of the 10 with BMI below 18 reported feeling very fat. A study conducted with Singapore Chinese school girls with an average age of 16.5 years, 56% of them felt overweight even with a mean BMI of 18.89 (Ung). Asians have a smaller body structure and framework thus comparing to American, there’s a difference between the Body Mass Index (BMI). For Asians, a BMI that is 24 or higher is considered overweightand obesity, a BMI of 28 or higher (â€Å"Ethnic†). For Americans, a BMI between 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight and 30 or higher is considered to be obese (â€Å"Defining†). The idea of skinny-bony body structure being beautiful is often termed as â€Å"à ©Ã‚ ªÃ‚ ¨Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã… ¸Ãƒ §Ã‚ ¾Ã… ½Ã¢â‚¬  (gu-gan-mei) in the Asian culture, whereby you can easily see a person’s bone structure – protruding collar-bones, hip bones. That’s the idea of beauty because it looks sexy. Both Asian and American have this idea of how sexiness and beauty looks like – that you have to be skinny to be pretty. Figure 7: Bony Asian Artiste Source: SinaFigure 8: Ideal bony structure Source: Pinterest Models must be of a certain body frame and below certain weight in order to be called models. A friend of mine, who’s recovering from Anorexia, was rejected from a clothing line modelling audition and told harshly that she’s â€Å"too fat†. When in fact, the judge could have easily told her that her body type is not what they are looking for, instead of using words like â€Å"too fat†, which seriously hurts a person’s self-esteem and digs into that insecurity furthermore. Not only women, men suffer from eating disorders too. However, they are less likely to seek medical treatment because of the perception that eating disorders are a â€Å"women disease†. In America, an estimation of 10% to 15% of people with eating disorders is male. In Singapore, about 20 per cent of people who seek help for eating disorders are males. A data analysis report shows that in between 2003 to 2012, there were 72 cases of men suffering from an eating disorder and seeking help at the Eating Disorders Clinic at Singapore General Hospital. The average age was 19.9 years (â€Å"The†). To conclude, even though majority of people suffering from eating disorders are women, there is an increasing rate of male patients as well. United States, in comparison with Singapore, have a larger amount of people developing eating disorders and media is a large medium for such influence on youths and adults. I can conclude from the interview that many are affected by the media’s portrayal of an ideal body, but American society being more liberal, are more exposed and marketed to such body ideals due to easy accessibility with public broadcast media like VS models runway shows and magazine cover pages. In comparison, Singapore has more censorship in the media. Works Cited Chisuwa, Naomi, and Jennifer A. ODea. Body Image and Eating Disorders amongst Japanese Adolescents. A Review of the Literature.Body Image and Eating Disorders amongst Japanese Adolescents. A Review of the Literature(n.d.): 6. Web. 17 Jan. 2015. Defining Overweight and Obesity.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d. Web. 15 Jan. 2015. Digital image.Pinterest. N.p., n.d. Web. Digital image.Sina.com.cn. Sina Corporation, n.d. Web. Eating Disorders Statistics.National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, n.d. Web. 14 Jan. 2015. Eating Disorders.KidsHealth. Ed. Michelle New. The Nemours Foundation, 01 Jan. 2011. Web. 17 Jan. 2015. Ethnic Differences in BMI and Disease Risk.Ethnic Differences in BMI and Disease Risk. Harvard School of Public Health, 20 Oct. 2012. Web. 17 Jan. 2015 Her World Singapore.Her World Singapore. Singapore Press Holdings, n.d. Web. â€Å"Nina Dobrev on the cover†.Digital Image. Seventeen. Hearst Communications, Inc., n.d. Web. 20 Jan. 2015. Parrott, Lauren. Real Beauty vs. Love My Body.Real Beauty vs. Love My Body. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jan. 2015. SHAPE Magazine Singapore.SHAPE Magazine Singapore. Singapore Press Holdings, n.d. Web. Statistics by Country for Eating Disorders.RightDiagnosis. HealthGrades, n.d. Web. 17 Jan. 2015. Tan, Rachel. More Youngsters Diagnosed with Eating Disorders.The Straits Times. Singapore Press Holdings, 13 Oct. 2013. Web. 17 Jan. 20015. The Men Do Get It: Eating Disorders In Males – An Asian Perspective.†Aseanjournalofpsychiatry.org. Asean Journal of Psychiatry, n.d. Web. 19 Jan. 2015. Ung, Eng Khean.Eating Disorder. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Jan. 2015. Victorias Secret Perfect Body Campaign Sparks Backlash.New York Post. FOX News, n.d. Web. 20 Jan. 2015. 1

The sanctity of life

The sanctity of life The Christian response to abortion in our western culture has been a matter of preserving the sanctity of life. Although it would seem to be cut and dry to a Christian that abortion violates that sanctity of life, it continues to face constitutional evolvement, differing worldviews, the scrutiny of the medical profession, and with respect to school text books. All of these concerns illustrate a wayward compass, lacking the ability to find true north. Society continues to weigh the simple yet complex definitions of personhood. Abortion is purported to be morally justified by pro-choice advocates in the postmodern culture. The question of what is right or wrong is argued within both sides of the issue. For instance the religious community cannot reach agreement cites Rothstein and Williams, (1983) what a person consists of or when a person begins life. This paper will contend that the postmodern attitude towards abortion has been characterized as ambivalent, and in a postmodern theistic society which has been exposed to liberal schools of thought changing Christian and family values to err on the side of science and convenience. Further, decision makers on the pro-choice side have used their agenda to further their secular beliefs through education, giving rise to sexual promiscuity. Additionally, there have been declines in moral thresholds, in theological literacy, and in respect for the importance of gender roles, resulting in societys ambivalence and a reduction in regard for the sanctity of life. Disputes over abortion are usually very heated due to the involvement of conflicting world views. Abortion is going to have difficulty attempting to reside within a Christian worldview, based purely on their opposing logic. Furthermore, abortion cannot maintain itself within the worldview of liberal postmodernism. Challengers of abortion are aware they are supporting unborn babies; although they may not be cognizant they are also supporting the Christian worldview. Also supporters of legal abortions identify that they are securing a womans right to choose even though they may not be completely aware of their support to the postmodern worldview. A worldview adds perspective and helps us identify with the world around us, and how we deduce and appraise not only what we see, but how we compare ourselves to our understanding of life. Religion has the ability to hone a persons worldview, which starts to develop and institute a moral awareness which tends to give form and shape our moral perspectives. (Durkheim 1954), Religion serves as a main source for determining right and wrong, good and bad, just and unjust.(p. 43). In order to have a suitable understanding of the postmodern view of abortion, both opposing worldviews must be examined in order to balance our understanding as to why a person in a theistic society embraces a pro-abortion stance. This comparison will also show why there is difficulty in finding a common ground, and why a postmodern worldview conversion or construction is not practical at this point, leading to the rise in secular decision making. Comparative analysis of two opposing worldviews: Man is a created being and has a composition pre-determined by an intelligent and purposeful design, as opposed to mans indiscriminate evolvement and has no fixed nature or design. Man is an immortal spirit being which indwells a mortal body, and in contrast, man is wholly a physical animal and or machine. Moral law governs universally through marriage, sexual activity, and family, and in contrast morality is culturally and or individually determined. (Luker, 1984) Argues that pro-choice activist women share almost no common premises and very little common language with antiabortion activist women; in particular, the worldviews and conceptions of motherhood held by the two different groups of women are antithetical. (p.2). The culture war on abortion has many fronts, and those who adhere to liberal postmodernism or answer to liberal postmodern ideology are likely to frame lawful abortion as a set of rights or privileges. Professor Stanley Hauerwas author of Theologically Understood goes on to say that Christians in America are tempted to think of issues like abortion primarily in legal terms such as rights. He explains rights as an agreement between members in a society, who have nothing in common. Professor Hauerwas states that within a liberal society such as ours, the law functions as a mediator of such agreements. He gives an example of our system of law by saying lawyers are to America what priests were to the medieval world. In other words according to professor Hauerwas, Is abortion right or wrong? Or is this abortion right or wrong? rather, the first question is, Why do Christians call abortion, abortion and with the first question goes a second, Why do Christians think that abortion is a morally problematic term? (p. 5). Professor Hauerwas demystifies years of elusions by calling abortion, abortion which is already an achievement based on principles. Lets call a spade a spade, pro-choice is really pro-abortion isnt it, or what about termination of pregnancy, and with the use of this terminology the postmodernist have reduced the churchs involvement, and reallocated the moral responsibility onto the medical profession. (Emerson, 1996) For most of the twentieth century, abortion was removed from public scrutiny by defining it as a question of medical judgment. (p. 44). Well by circumventing the church we can easily foretell any future decision making within a postmodern society towards abortion by defining that mistake as take God out of anything and it dies as pointed out here by Friedrich Nietzsche, parable of a madman Do we smell anything yet of Gods decomposition? Isnt this the crux of postmodern wisdom which is inserting Gods insignificance into the minds of our youth like a Botox injection giving off the same expression of emotion? As pointed out by (Sire, 2004) A culture cannot lose its philosophic center without the most serious of consequences, not just to the philosophy on which it was based but to the whole superstructure of culture and even each persons notion of who he or she is. When God dies, both the substance and the value of everything else die too. (p. 211). This leads me to my next point on Postmodernisms thinking on the sanctity of life, which has created a pro-abortion crisis in America. In the United States alone the abortion rates had increased, in 1974 898,000 to 1,533,000 in 1980. These figures tell us that on an average day in Washington D.C., our nations capital 4,257 abortions are outnumbering live births. Twenty-five percent of all pregnancies are terminated in this manner and forty percent among teenagers, and approximately twenty percent of all women in the United States have had a legal abortion. Sixty percent were under twenty five years of age, and eighty two percent were unmarried at the time of their abortions, and sixty nine percent of these individuals were white. This is the latest available information provided to us by researchers at the (Henshaw, Koonin Smith institute, 1991). The above information shows the influential state and the wide acceptance of abortion and its use as a solution rather than as a last resort. Another way we see secular conditioning, is through what we read, which raises the question are we neglecting to effectively teach any alternatives to abortions such as adoption? For a number of generations we have been stealth fully preconditioning society by removing God from public education. Here for example a member of the Texas board of education is reported saying (Castro, 2010)There seems to be a misinformed view of religion in American history, that America is somehow founded on Christianity, Mize said. We just ask that things be historically accurate.(Â ¶7). The following message certainly points to a valid concern held by many Christians, and alludes to a valid misrepresentation on prolife options within our school textbooks. The following independent study is brought to us by (Kathy Shepherd Elaine Hall, 1994) from 1988 through 1993 sampling 27 textbooks representing 16 publishers covering a period of 6 years.(p. 267). They referenced topics such as, abortion and legal cases such as Roe v. Wade, pro-life, birth control, teen pregnancy, and reproduction. Citations for abortion were indexed more than 60 times and adoption citations were indexed under 13 headings. Also with this study acknowledgement to abortion was tendered 4 times more page space than adoption. That study certainly lessens the burden of understanding a postmodern view towards the ultimate decision to dismiss life, since a form of preconditioning has shown a dismissive slide of pen towards alternatives methods of abortion. (Geersten, 1977) The textbook often provides the central focus and organizing framework for courses, and students, in turn rely on textbooks as their most readily available source of information about the course topics. (p. 102). Postmodern theists are also finding difficulty with the abortion issue when it comes to their education as pointed out here, (Schmalzbauer, 1993) contends that Evangelicals for the most part tend to adhere to their education group rather than their religion with regards to their abortion attitudes. (p. 6). Education will no doubt reconstruct the minds of our youth as pointed out by (Evans, 2002) when he commented on Wuthnow, 1988 education is a more powerful opinion structuring force than religious discourse itself, and most studies find that the more education a respondent has, the more liberal his or her abortion attitudes. (p. 418). This adds to why a postmodern theistic society raises and nurtures its most influential citizens into embracing such secular ideas as Humanism, Naturalism, and Theistic Existentialism? (Bruce Steve, 1996) Postmodernism is here to stay and to evolve. It is a major paradigm shift that has vast and deep impact on the world. When modernity hits hard on Christianity, many sociologists predict the inevitable demise and even eradication of Christianity by secularism. (p. Â ¶5). Also having the wrong personalities controlling how textbooks are studied can only point to the trickling down effect of God within the hearts of man. (Strickler and Danigelis, 1999) Point out that education is shaping the very future of Christendom. By the mid-1990s abortion had been legal for two decades, the population had become more educated and more secular, and other sociodemographic trends found abortion increasingly acceptable. (p. 188). Another reason our postmodern society leans towards abortion as a first consideration rather than as a last resort rests within their understanding of God. The postmodern cultures knowledge of the bible clearly illustrates the ease of which abortion decisions are made. According to the attitudes in society, the concept of God has not changed, and Americans declare their attitudes outline their public disposition. Timothy Renick, (2007) mentions a vast many Americans purport their own religious institutions take part in public strategy issues, and the majority of Congress members consult their individual religious values when voting on legislation. He further notes that America is still very Christian minded, more so than Israel is Jewish or Utah is Mormon. (Timothy Renick, 2007) Yet surveys show that the majority of [postmodern] Americans cannot name even one of the four Gospels, only one-third know that it was Jesus who delivered the Sermon on the Mount, and 10 percent think that Joan of Arc was Noahs wife. (Hey, at least they know that Noah was associated with an ark-or is that Arc?) (p. 26). (Timothy Renick, 2007) continues to paint a solemn picture of postmodern Christianitys understanding of the bible by saying, Many high school seniors think that Sodom and Gomorrah were husband and wife. Renick also claims that devout Christians are, on average, at least as ignorant about the facts of Christianity as are other Americans. Sixty percent of evangelicals think Jesus was born in Jerusalem; only 51 percent of the Jews surveyed made the same mistake. And things are not getting any better. (p. 26-27). (Renick, quotes Prothero, 2007) comments on America which has become a nation deeply religious and profoundly ignorant about religion.(26). References Schmalzbauer, John 1993 Evangelicals in the new class: Class versus subculture predictors of Ideology. Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion 32(4):330-342. Wuthnow, Robert 1988 the Restructuring of American Religion. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press. Geersten, R. (1977). The textbook: An ACIDS test. Teaching Sociology, 5, 101-120. Henshaw, S. K., Koonin, L. M., Smith, J. C. (1991). Characteristics of U.S. women having Abortions. Family Planning Perspectives, 23, 75-81. Bruce, (1996). Religion in the Modern World. Oxford. Oxford University Press. Emerson M. (1996). Through Tinted Glasses: Religion, Worldviews, and Abortion Attitudes. Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, 1996, vol. 35, No. 1. P. 41-55. April Castro, (2010) Texas Ed Board Set to Take 1st Vote since Primary. http://abcnews.go.com/US/wirestory?id=10058603page=1. Retrieved on April 9, 2010. Lokensgard, K. (AP 2009). Religious literacy, the First Amendment, and public education. Council of Societies for the Study of Religion Bulletin. 38(2), 41-45. Renick, T. M. (S 4 2007). Dumbed down: what Americans dont know about religion. Christian Century. 124(18), 26-29. Once again here we are asking how a Christian in a postmodern society can consider abortion as a viable solution to a complex moral issue. The abortion debate has polarized Americans like no other national problem since 9/11 or Watergate. The abortion issue has created a vast partitioning across Americas cultural, and religious lines, which is also evident at the individual, political, and ecclesiastical levels. (New International Version, 1984) You may say I am allowed to do anything. But I reply, Not everything is good for you. And even through I am allowed to do anything, I must not become a slave to anythingBut our bodies were not made for sexual immorality. They were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies. (1 Cor. 6:12-13). Thomas Jefferson is regularly addressed as one of the finest proponents of religious freedom in the nineteenth century. In a letter dated 1816 he writes about moral decisions which he acknowledges the individual is heir to his own decision and no one else, (Lokensgard, 2009) But I have ever thought religion a concern purely between our God and our consciences, for which we were accountable to Him, and not to the priests (p. 43).

The Big Issue in the North Essay -- Social Issues, Homelessness, Crime

This essay will concentrate on the Big Issue in the North (BIIN) which is part of a social business with the solution and support systems to help eradicate social problems and create opportunities for people â€Å"who have had a raw deal in life†,(Swithinbank,2001) empowering them to change their lives. The BIIN is a limited company employing staff to write, design and distribute the magazine. Vendors buy the magazine for one pound and sell it for two pounds, making a 100 per-cent profit. Some of this money must be re-invested into buying more magazines; the rest is kept by the vendor. In this way, despite being socially excluded, the vendor has a regular wage. This encourages people to make efforts to develop routine and stability and gives them opportunity to change their lives for the better. This essay will look at how the Big Issue partakes in current legislation; the history of the Big Issue; study the internal structure of the organisation and demonstrate how the Big Is sue ensures effectiveness and manages constraints. Every Government which has come into power has tried to eradicate homelessness, and lower crime rates. The 2002 Homelessness Act defined provisions that local councils, homeless agencies and housing associations have to follow to develop and help eradicate homelessness. Shelter says â€Å"it is glad the government has come round to its view that street homelessness is only the most visible form of homelessness† (Walker, 2002). As a result of these acts the BIIN in Liverpool partake in monthly meetings with other agencies such as the Whitechapel, Basement and Mental Health teams. The Liverpool Homelessness Strategy 2008- 11, sets out how all stakeholders such as the BIIN will focus on prevention of homelessness ... ...he ways staff overcomes this difficulty is by using internet resources, pictures and power phrasing words. In extreme circumstances staff can consult a translator, however this is expensive. Another constraint is staff storages which mean out of town vendors are not always monitored as often as city centre vendors. This could be managed by having a staff member once a month committed to out of town visits. Finally this essay has shown how the BIIN gives homeless people the opportunity to earn an income it also gives them motivation and self-esteem and goes beyond just selling the magazine. This essay shows the BIIN works in partnership with many agencies by sharing information, by following government guidelines and offering people a â€Å"hand up instead of hand out†. The BIIN also demonstrates that all individuals should be included in society and be valued.

Auschwitz Concentration Camp :: essays research papers

Auschwitz EVEN IN THE SILENCE OF THE POLISH countryside, Auschwitz can not rest in peace. The name alone prompts instant recognition--a shorthand for the criminal barbarity of the 20th century. If ever there were a place in which myth was unseemly and unnecessary, where fact could be left unadorned, it would be Auschwitz. For 50 years, that has not been the case. The list of myths and misconceptions about the largest Nazi concentration camp is a long one. Soviet investigators declared in May 1945 that 4 million people had died in Auschwitz, and the Polish Communist authorities stuck to this inflated figure until they lost power in 1989. Since then the number has heen revised to between 1.1 million and 1.5 million, which most historians now believe is accurate. Until the Soviet bloc fell, the exhibits at Auschwitz downplayed the number of Jewish victims, suggesting that their part of the total was smaller than the 90 percent figure generally accepted today. In the West, many erroneously believed that the camp was created to murder Jews, and that Auschwitz was the primary killing ground for Polish Jews. The facts are more complex. A former army barracks located near the town of Oswiecim, or Auschwitz in German, the main camp received its first transport of 728 Poles in June 1940. These were political prisoners, usually affiliated with resistance movements. In most cases, they were Catholics, since the deportations of Jews had not yet begun. But as soon as those first prisoners arrived, they were treated to a speech that signaled the future evolution of the camp. "You have come not to a sanatorium but to a German concentration camp where the only way out is through the chimney," Karl Fritsch, the SS chief in charge of the prisoners, declared. "If someone doesn't like it, he can throw himself on the barbed wire. If there are Jews in the transport, they don't have the right to live more than two weeks; priests, one month, and the others, three months." "The camp was created to destroy the most valuable part of Polish society, and the Germans partly succeeded in this," says Zygmunt Gaudasinski, an early political prisoner there. Some prisoners, like Guadasinski's father, were shot; torture was commonplace, and the early mortality rate was very high. That changed once prisoners latched onto jobs--in the kitchens, warehouses and other sheltered places--which increased their odds for survival. Auschwitz Concentration Camp :: essays research papers Auschwitz EVEN IN THE SILENCE OF THE POLISH countryside, Auschwitz can not rest in peace. The name alone prompts instant recognition--a shorthand for the criminal barbarity of the 20th century. If ever there were a place in which myth was unseemly and unnecessary, where fact could be left unadorned, it would be Auschwitz. For 50 years, that has not been the case. The list of myths and misconceptions about the largest Nazi concentration camp is a long one. Soviet investigators declared in May 1945 that 4 million people had died in Auschwitz, and the Polish Communist authorities stuck to this inflated figure until they lost power in 1989. Since then the number has heen revised to between 1.1 million and 1.5 million, which most historians now believe is accurate. Until the Soviet bloc fell, the exhibits at Auschwitz downplayed the number of Jewish victims, suggesting that their part of the total was smaller than the 90 percent figure generally accepted today. In the West, many erroneously believed that the camp was created to murder Jews, and that Auschwitz was the primary killing ground for Polish Jews. The facts are more complex. A former army barracks located near the town of Oswiecim, or Auschwitz in German, the main camp received its first transport of 728 Poles in June 1940. These were political prisoners, usually affiliated with resistance movements. In most cases, they were Catholics, since the deportations of Jews had not yet begun. But as soon as those first prisoners arrived, they were treated to a speech that signaled the future evolution of the camp. "You have come not to a sanatorium but to a German concentration camp where the only way out is through the chimney," Karl Fritsch, the SS chief in charge of the prisoners, declared. "If someone doesn't like it, he can throw himself on the barbed wire. If there are Jews in the transport, they don't have the right to live more than two weeks; priests, one month, and the others, three months." "The camp was created to destroy the most valuable part of Polish society, and the Germans partly succeeded in this," says Zygmunt Gaudasinski, an early political prisoner there. Some prisoners, like Guadasinski's father, were shot; torture was commonplace, and the early mortality rate was very high. That changed once prisoners latched onto jobs--in the kitchens, warehouses and other sheltered places--which increased their odds for survival.

Geometry Kite Making

1) Search for a kite you’d like to build. It can be any shape kite, but keep in mind that the easier the build, the more difficult I grade it. The harder it is to build, the more chance it won’t be completed in time. So evaluate yourself & the directions to determine which kite you decide on building. a. Google the web (not videos, nor images) – â€Å"How to build a kite with step by step directions† †¦ You can word your search in any way that is similar to what I just gave you. b. Be sure what you pull up has Step by Step Directions on how to build the kite (i. e. t will tell exactly how & where to cut the material, where to place the dowels, where to tie the string, etc, etc).c. Be sure what you pull up has Clear Materials Listed – meaning you will be able to list off what is needed to build a kite (i. e. exact centimeters or inches of dowels, the diameter of the dowel, if plastic tubing is needed, string length, etc, etc). d. Print all this out – preferably with photos (always helpful when building). 2) Write up a materials list with the totals (dowel length, string length, fabric, etc) on a lined piece of paper so that it’s legible.This is for me to go shopping with, so I need the exact total & I need to read it. I’m not interested in how many ___ sized pieces of dowel you need because we’ll just cut up the total length later; I just need you to calculate from your internet, printed materials list the exact totals of each item. 3) Build your kite – we’ll be doing this in class as a group. You won’t be taking any of these items home, so you need to make sure you are here for each class we designate as build days. e.Each â€Å"build day† you will need: yard stick (science lab has some), pencil, pen, lined paper for calculations, calculator, ruler, protractor, kite instructions & a servant’s heart (because we’ll need to bring other items to & from my c lassroom each of these days = teamwork). f. Measure the perimeter & area of your kite, once completed. g. Were there any angles in your kite? What types; how many; what degrees were they (calculate algebraically being sure to write down how you calculated †¦ same side interior, complementary angles, etc. )? h.Are there any parallel &/or perpendicular lines? Transversal lines? i. As you build along, rewrite the steps in your own words so that someone else could build your kite. Use as many geometric terms as articulately possible. Reason: 1) I asked; and, 2) the directions you find on the internet are often more complicated than need be, so you’ll be helping someone else out. Maybe we’ll start our own website someday! 4) Project items from the book: j. Page 453: You’ll need to draw diagonals on a plain, white sheet of copy paper using a yard stick for accuracy.Mark off your half-inch measurement (the  ½ inch past center point) with a pencil so that it†™s visible to others. The â€Å"front corners† are considered the ones where you folded the paper, not the ones where it’s unfolded. **There is a â€Å"typo†: you’ll be folding the corners & stapling them about 3-4 in. from the front of the kite. You will staple those folds together perpendicularly to the first fold. ** Tie one end of string through the back of the staple. Open up the unfolded paper to create a kite surface. ~ You are not creating a paper airplane, and so therefore will follow these directions with the book’s directions to create a paper kite. ~~ k. Page 468: When â€Å"describing† each effective area, the book is asking you to compare the effective area to the actual kite (i. e. : does the effective area have the same area as the part of the kite that’s facing the wind; or less, or more; etc, etc). When you compare, do so in words (using as many geometrical terms as possible) as well as with some calculations.l. Pa ge 476: SKIP †¦ this is what you did in Parts 1 & 2. ) REPORT: Research the history of kites, and be sure to write down your sources for use in a reference page later (when you hand in your final project). m. When were they first used? What were they used for? In what country did they first get used predominantly? n. Find examples of how kites were used for: rescuing sailors, vanquishing enemies, predicting the weather, etc. Give me any other uses for kites †¦ be thorough & creative. o. Tell me any interesting facts you discovered about kites while doing this research.