Definition of a physical geology term Sedimentary Rock

Definition of a physical geology term Sedimentary Rock Introduction Rocks are divided into three major types, viz. sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. The geologic reactions occurring on the Earth only cause minute alterations to the landscape in a given lifetime. The changes become evident after millions of years. Though gradual, the geologic processes can reduce a mountain to a plain.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Definition of a physical geology term: Sedimentary Rock specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The geologic processes lead to the erosion of debris, which is then transferred to form deposits of sedimentary rock. In essence, sedimentary rocks exist at the cost of other rocks that break down through weathering and they are carried by various agents such as wind and deposited to form the rock. Sedimentary Rocks: overview Sedimentary rocks can form a string of layers, which can total up to thousands of meters in breadth. By examining these rock layers, g eologists can retrieve information about the background of the Earth. The magnitude of information about the Earth’s background is tremendous. Every rock layer marks an age of geological process. Moreover, the information retrieved in line with its texture, formation, and remnants is crucial for global modification, thus revealing the nature in which the earth changes from the past, present, and future. For a geologist to study the sedimentary data properly, s/he should comprehend the contemporary sedimentary structures, their sources, mode of transit, and areas or regions where the sediments are currently settling (Stille 56). A research on the ongoing sediment formation and depositing will help one to have a clear view. The nature of the fossil recorded in the sedimentary rocks gives a glimpse on surrounding where the sediments settled and the process and timeline of how the Earth developed and transformed over time. Other than the scientific importance, sedimentary rocks a lso play a great role in industrial and social development. Sedimentary can be used to make various tools that are useful in accomplishing a variety of tasks. This aspect was recorded as early as in the Neolithic Age when early man made tools such as axes and arrowheads using sedimentary rocks.Advertising Looking for research paper on geology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Some of the statues include those designed during the Renaissance and art in ancient Greek. Notably, about 90% of the known minerals are found within sedimentary rock layers. Oil, coal, cement (sand, limestone, and gravel) and fertilizer is all but a product of sedimentary rocks. Moreover, sedimentary rocks store a lot of water that people depend on for survival. Indeed, the significance of sedimentary rocks cannot be ignored. Nature of Sedimentary Rocks The constitution of sedimentary rocks is derived from mechanical and chemical breakdown of ot her rocks. The deposit is compressed to solid rock layers made up of organic substances, chemical remains, and pieces of minerals. One can have a good observation of sedimentary rocks by visiting the Grand Canyon in Arizona. One of the common characteristics is that they have distinct layers known as strata measuring about 100m thick with each layer having disparate and unique texture coupled with internal and external construction. Fig 1: a sedimentary rock.  Source: (â€Å"Civil† par. 6) The texture is often composed of minerals and pieces of rocks implying that abrasion must occur during its formation. The bedding planes (which separate the different layers) often have ripple marks as well as other facts that show that there were water deposition stored along the bedding plane. Sedimentary rocks are present throughout the world and they form about 75% of the entire world (Tucker 56). The ocean floor is often covered with sedimentary rock layer.Advertising We wil l write a custom research paper sample on Definition of a physical geology term: Sedimentary Rock specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Types of Sedimentary Rocks There are two types of sedimentary rocks with a distinction on their texture and composition. These two groups include clastic rocks and chemical rocks. Clastic sedimentary rocks refer to rocks that were formed out of fragmental materials that were transferred and subsequently deposited in the environment of deposition. Essentially, clastic is derived from a Greek word klastos, which means broken. The clastic rocks are further classified by considering the nature of grains. They are of three types, viz. conglomerate, sandstone, and mudrock with grain size descending respectively. The size of grain in clastic is always determined by the size of the preexisting rock as well as the capability of the transport agent (wind and water). Deposition occurs when the velocity of the transporting r educes. If the transporting agent were moving fast, then it is anticipated that particles deposited will be coarser than those being moved slowly. Fig. 2: the formation of a sedimentary rock. Source: (â€Å"Rock Hounds† par. 1) Conglomerate is made up of large grains with sand particles and mud occupying the spaces created by the grains. Naturally, they are smooth and coarsely stratified. They are currently found in the bases of most mountains as well as stream paths. Sandstones are popularly known by most because they are easily observable and are anti-weathering.Advertising Looking for research paper on geology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More They made up of almost anything and they appear in a range of colors (Sohn and Wright 49). Mudrocks are composed of very small grain particles and they are the most dominant in the family of clastic rocks. Due to their smoothness of the grains, they break down easily and create slopes and they are commonly deposited along deltas as well as river floodplains. Chemical Sedimentary Rocks Chemical sedimentary rocks develop when chemical reactions lead to the removal of ions from water to form solid substances. Unlike clastic rocks, chemical rocks are grouped according to the composition. Some of the popular chemical sedimentary rocks include limestone, dolostone, and chert. Limestone is the most common and dominant chemical sedimentary rock. Its constituents include calcium carbonate and it is formed via both chemical and biochemical procedures. The disparate textures of limestone have led to its further categorization to include skeletal, oolitic, and microcrystalline limestone. Skelet al limestone includes chalk, which is made of plants, and animals remain (Tucker 105). Dolostone closely resembles limestone. It has a light gray color and it can be formed through precipitation and chemical reaction between water having magnesium components and calcium carbonate present in limestone. A third type of chemical and biochemical sedimentary rock is chert ,which is made up of microcrystalline quartz. It has a granular texture and it breaks like a glass. It has an array of colors and the different colors are often given specific names. For instance, a red chert is referred to as jasper. Its characteristic nature to break and form sharp edges inspired many traditional artists to use it to design arrowheads, spears and other tools (Sohn and Wright 78). Conclusion Geological processes are incessantly taking place in various places. Inasmuch as one cannot notice the effects ongoing processes, millions years later, another generation will be living in a new world with differen t sedimentary structures. As noted in the discussion, sedimentary rocks are formed from weathering of rocks both chemically and mechanically. The nature of this formation leads to a further classification to clastic and chemical sedimentary rocks. Most of the essential minerals such as diamonds and limestone that people rely on for survival and luxury are found within these rocks. The significance of sedimentary rocks shows how vital people should be imparted with geological knowledge and in particular that of rocks. Civil: Sedimentary rocks 2011. Web. http://royalcivilgirlz.blogspot.com/ Rock Hounds: How sedimentary rock is formed 2013. Web. Sohn, Emily, and Pam Wright. Earth Materials: The Mystery Rocks. Chicago: Norwood House Press, 2011. Print. Stille, Darlene. Sedimentary Rocks: A Record of Earths History. Chicago: Capstone, 2008. Print. Tucker, Maurice. Sedimentary Rocks in the Field: A Practical Guide. London: John Wiley Sons, 2011. Print.

6 Neuroscience Hacks to Beat Writers Block - Freewrite Store

6 Neuroscience Hacks to Beat Writers Block - Freewrite Store The page is blank and the cursor is blinking at you accusingly. You’ve been sitting at your computer for an hour and you’ve written a sum total of nothing. It’s not that you don’t want to write – it’s that you can’t. The words that yesterday flowed so easily have disappeared into the ether – and you’re wondering despairingly if they’re ever going to return. Most (if not all) writers are familiar with this scenario. The dreaded writer’s block – that, for me at least, usually turns up when there’s an important deadline looming. Recently, however, I got into an argument with a friend – another writer – who insisted that writer’s block doesn’t exist. Writer’s block, he said, was all in my mind. He’s not the first to suggest that idea. I headed straight to Google to find out what others have to say about it (hoping to be able to present my friend with proof that I was right and he was wrong). Instead, I stumbled across some fascinating research from the world of neuropsychology and neuroscience. It turns out that writer’s block is just in my head – but not in the way that my friend was suggesting. The Neuropsychology of Writer’s Block Neuropsychology is a complex field that combines psychological understandings of the mind with a more physiological investigation of the way that the brain works. For example, neuropsychology might look at what neurons are firing when we experience certain feelings, or what the parts of the brain that are active during specific experiences or actions. So, what does neuropsychology have to say about writer’s block? Neurologists, psychologists, neuropsychologists and neuroscientists have been studying and debating for decades why things like writer’s block occur. While some psychologists will conclude that writer’s block is more of an excuse than a phenomenon, there have been studies that have set out to demonstrate that there’s neuropsychological evidence for the reality of writer’s block. Executive Dysfunction Neuropsychologists Elkhonon Goldberg and Russell Barkley have both investigated a set of complex mental functions that happen in (or are controlled by) the pre-frontal cortex known as ‘executive functions’. It is these executive functions that allow us to do things like plan, organize, prioritize, self-monitor, initiate and sustain certain behaviors as we pursue goals. When there’s disruption to executive functions, we enter a state Russell Barkley has called ‘executive dysfunction’. A sign of executive dysfunction is an inability to stop ourselves from doing something that’s preventing us from achieving a goal-focused activity. A prime example of this is when you’ve set yourself a goal of writing a blog post but spend the time set aside for writing watching videos of dogs on YouTube. When writers are experiencing writer’s block, then, it’s a form of executive dysfunction. Certainly, there are problems with executive functions when you feel that your creativity is blocked. These problems can include: Difficulties with getting started (initiation) Distraction Trouble prioritizing Struggling to pace ourselves Emotional Roots Another key neuropsychological view of writer’s block came from Gene Parret. His theory is that not only is writer’s block a genuine malady, but it is also rooted in underlying fears. Neuroscience backs up this idea. Everything that we do is the result of neurons firing in our brains – and strong emotions, such as fear, can have a profound effect on neuron functions. Parret’s view is that the way that we perceive our writing abilities plays a huge role in our experience of writer’s block. For example, if you have a negative mindset (such as thinking that no one will want to read what you’re writing) and sit down to write, the negativity will impact on your neuron pathways and cause difficulties with the writing process. The Psychology of Writing Ronald Kellogg is the author of ‘The Psychology of Writing’ and he has highlighted the way that certain environments, schedules and rituals can either increase or inhibit writing processes. There’s a neuropsychological link with this, as it’s been shown that neural pathways can be activated by associations with places, times of day, and so on. Circadian Rhythm Rules There are links, too, with the circadian rhythms (otherwise known as the sleep-wake cycle). For example, many writers find that their creative juices flow better at certain times of day. This is another area that has been backed up by neuroscience – albeit in studies done with mice. Neuroscientific studies have revealed that circadian rhythms aren’t just about when we’re awake and when we’re asleep. There are also times of the day that are better suited to different types of tasks. To make this more complicated, everyone’s circadian rhythm for specific tasks is different, so there are no rules when it comes to the specific times when you should be doing something. What the circadian rhythm studies have shown, though, is that if you don’t understand your own circadian rhythms, you could find yourself trying to write when your brain is better optimized for research (knowledge-processing). There are different neural processes involved in creativity (such as writing) compared with more structured tasks (such as research), so when you experience writer’s block, it could actually be that you’re trying to be creative when your brain wants to be learning. Interestingly, we’re notoriously bad at correctly understanding our own circadian rhythm, too. Some research has proved that self-proclaimed ‘morning-people’ are actually more productive in the evening, and those who call themselves ‘night-owls’ are more productive during the morning. Could beating writer’s block be as simple as better understanding your circadian rhythm? Using Neuropsychology to Combat Writer’s Block Now that we’ve taken a quick tour through some of the complexities of neuropsychology, it’s time to get practical. How can you use neuropsychology to combat writer’s block? There are actually a number of techniques you can use that have their roots in neuropsychological thinking. 1.  Cognitive Cueing Cognitive cueing is based on Kellogg’s understanding of how certain places can impact on the efficiency of certain processes. It’s not an immediate fix, as it takes time to establish cognitive cues, but it’s a technique that’s been shown to help break the cycle of writer’s block. With cognitive cueing, you need to create a specific space that is only used for writing. It will only be effective if that space is exclusively for writing – if you use it for anything else, the cognitive cues won’t work. Your brain will come to associate the space with the act of writing, and the neural pathways that are formed will kick-start the writing process when you return to the space to write. 2.  Circadian Self-Reflection Since our circadian rhythms have such a big impact on our ability to perform specific tasks, it makes sense that another means of beating writer’s block lies in understanding the times of day that are most suited to writing. It’s different for everyone, so the only way to figure out the times of day that are suited to research and those that are better suited for creativity is through self-reflection. Keep a journal or notes about your daily activities and reflect on how easy (or difficult) the different types of tasks seemed. Vary the times of day that you complete tasks so that you can begin to see patterns. When you understand your circadian rhythm, you can focus your writing activities at the most creative times of day, and reduce your risk of writer’s block. 3.  Incubate Your Creativity Incubation of ideas is a neuropsychological principle that’s been tested on mice. It’s based on the idea that when you work on a task (or learn a skill) and then take a break or begin a different task, the neural pathways involved in the original task or skill remain active. RELATED: Writing Habits to Jumpstart Your Creativity Applying this to writer’s block, if you find that you’re struggling to get the words onto the page (or screen), then taking a break and doing something else – going for a walk, reading a book, and so on – can allow ideas to incubate, since the neural pathways that related to your writing task will stay active. Writers regularly report that their best ideas come when they’re doing something completely unrelated, so it’s worth trying incubation to beat writer’s block. 4.  Motivational Methods In neuropsychology, there are different types of motivation that have been identified, and people tend to have one or the other. These are known as ‘approach motivation’ and ‘avoidance motivation’. ‘Approach motivated’ people are optimistic about what they can achieve, and positively motivated to complete tasks. ‘Avoidance motivated’ people, by contrast, are negative and motivated by a fear of failure. Neuroscience shows that changes in neuronal activity can be affected by perceived outcomes – so what we think will be the result impacts on our performance. If we start writing worried that no one will want to read what we’re writing, this perceived outcome will negatively impact our neurons, and the writing task will become more difficult. RELATED:  55 Motivational Writing Quotes from Famous Authors The solution to this problem is to change our motivational type and use approach motivation. To do this, we focus on positive outcomes and set easily attainable goals that will reinforce the positivity. The more we attain these ‘easy’ goals, the better the impact on our neurons, and the less likely we are to experience writer’s block. 5.  Background Noise I was skeptical about this technique – until I tried it myself. Apparently, studies have shown that writers are often more productive in coffee shops or other similar environments where others are being productive. This has something to do with background noise – and there are now apps that will actually replicate the ambient noise of a coffee shop for writers who aren’t able to physically go out and sit in a coffee shop to write when they’re feeling blocked. Different types of background noise can either positively or negatively affect our creativity and productivity, so it’s important to note that you need to find the kind of background noise that works for you. Some people, for example, are more sensitive to noise, so a very busy coffee shop could have a negative impact on their ability to write, but a quieter shop could help to combat writer’s block. 6.  Unplug and Reset In the modern world, it sometimes feels like we’re slaves to our technological devices. Smartphones, tablets, and laptops keep us constantly connected to emails, social media, online videos and other distractions – which can be bad news if you’re already prone to experiencing writer’s block. There are a range of psychological benefits to unplugging from technology for a while. Unplugging can help when you’re feeling depressed and anxious or overwhelmed in any way. It can also help with writer’s block, by removing distractions and allowing you the opportunity to reset and get back in touch with your creativity. If you’re used to writing on a laptop or desktop computer, switching off all your technology can help unblock you when you feel like your creativity has dried up. The abundance of distractions on the internet can make it impossible to focus on anything and get into a rhythm.   It’s a simple technique that increases your ability to focus and helps get those creative juices flowing again. While you could abandon technology completely and go back to the basics with pen/paper, most of us can type much faster than we write.   Plus, re-transcribing handwritten notes to the computer is extremely tedious. Luckily, there is a way to unplug but still reap the benefits of technology: Freewrite’s distraction-free writing devices. With a typewriter-like feel and automatic syncing to the cloud, you can get writing again quickly. Find out more about the range of available devices here. A Treatment Plan for Writer’s Block Neuropsychology shows us that there’s scientific evidence for the existence of writer’s block – and it isn’t just excuses and/or laziness. Treating writer’s block with neuropsychology offers a range of techniques that can be used individually or combined into your own personal treatment plan. Experiment with the different techniques and find the ones that work best for you, so that you can combat the dreaded blank-page syndrome that writers fear.

What makes a difference in bereavement and grief Research Paper

What makes a difference in bereavement and grief - Research Paper Example C. A. Corr and D. A. Corr (2012, p. 244) identify five critical variables that influence experiences of bereavement and grief, namely: nature of the prior attachment or the perceived value, the way in which the loss occurred, coping strategies, developmental situation of the bereaved person, and the nature of the support that is available to the bereaved person after the loss. Of the five principles stated, the author believed that the nature of the prior attachment or the perceived value, the way in which the loss occurred, and the coping strategies appear to make a difference in the ways in which bereavement and grief are experienced. First, prior attachments refer to the relationship one has built with the person who has died. The depth of that relationship cannot be appreciated unless that person has gone or died. Another way to look at this is the perceived value of the relationship; that is, the more important a person to the bereaving individual, the greater is the expression of grief. For instance, if someone who died belongs to a member of our family, it will represent a loss that will need to be mourned as I have attachment to the person involved and he/she is also important or of value to me. In addition, relationships are multidimensional and may also affect difficultly grieving and bereavement if it is associated with the loss of the person w ho inflicted abuse or violence. The second principle which appeared to make a difference in the ways in which bereavement and grief are experienced is the way in which the loss takes place and the circumstances of the bereaved person. From my perspective, grieving becomes difficult and loss is hard to accept if the person died in a tragic and traumatic way (e.g., suicide, violence, and natural disasters). Time also matters in the grieving and bereavement process. It would be harder to accept a sudden and an unexpected death than a foreseen one like in the case of terminal cancer patients. Similarly,

Search Engine Optimization Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Search Engine Optimization - Research Paper Example This is to mean that, white hats use terms appropriately to ensure that their websites are visible. On the other hand, black fill their websites with content or words that get plenty of hits from search engines. White hats, when compared to black hats have distinct characteristics that put them apart in favor or against one another as one of the uses unscrupulous means and makes attractive promises (Creative Momentum 1). In relation to white hat search engine optimization, it follows regulations and guidelines to the letter, as provided by search engines to ensure that websites are visible to all that require information from them. This includes careful use of words that get numerous hits from search engines such that the words used are not meant to bloat documents or articles in the website. Instead, the words used are of a unique nature in that they are informative and, at times, act as support words for the whole article and not for exploiting the abilities of search engines. As s uch, websites are designed with certain aspects in mind; these include rules and norms, as well as a code of ethics to ensure that all internet activities are conducted with transparency. Based on this, following the guidelines of search engines for optimizing visibility, ensures that the ever-changing algorithms applied by search engines (Revenuewire 2) achieve transparency. This shields legal or appropriate sites from relegation, and thus gets high ratings by following meeting the terms of use on multiple levels. The white hat optimizers or designers, therefore, apply to the intelligence and needs of internet users to deliver quality content that does not fool search engines by giving false information, including in the titles of the websites. In relation to domain naming, white hat optimizers allow the actual intent of the website to appear rather than mislead the search engine user into logging into it for irrelevant content. These are the distinct characteristics of â€Å"whit e hat† search engine optimization due to their compliant nature, which offers protection from removal and relegation. On the other hand, black hat search engine optimizers have their own code of ethics, or lack of it thereof that sees them dump the rulebook and carry the day, but only for limited moment (Smith 5). Black hat optimization in search engines involves the application of hidden content, where there are numerous links and articles, as well as documents that are spammed with keywords, which serve as crucial gateway points for search engines. This is in relation to search engines accessing the site due to its heavy saturation with such words that are mainly used by internet users to query information from the internet. Information is usually hidden in scripts and non-script parts of code in a website, where search engines only expose it as its algorithms crawl the internet. In addition black hat optimizations tends to have meta-keyword stuffing, where in the descriptio n of the website, or even in its headers, it has numerous keywords (Wilding). These words raise the flags, both red and white for search engines thus improving the ranking of a website, especially in marketing and sites that market content to generate revenue. Through this, it is evident that black hat optimizers are only

High School Drop out Rate Essay Example for Free

High School Drop out Rate Essay Analysts agree that the rate of high school dropout in the United States has reached catastrophic levels. Credible estimates claim that more than a third of all students that join high school are likely to abandon school before completion. A look at the past decades indicates that this has been a growing trend and is yet to be arrested appropriately. This is a problem that has not been captured in the public glare due to scarcity if data. This paper will provide the available statistics on the rate of high school dropouts; provide an analysis of the possible causes and remedies. Different publications contain valid rates of dropouts; this is because of the existing differences in the definition of a dropout. There are those that graduate after completing the high school syllabus, others that graduate after completing an equivalency test of the same and those that graduate after passing other states based tests. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) compiles its data using either the event rates, status rates or the cohert rates. Events rates refer to the number of students that drop out of school annually while the status rate takes into account the total number of students that have cumulatively dropped out of school as a proportion of the total population. (National Institute on the Education of At Risks Students, 2006) Indicative reports have it that the rate of school dropout from the 1970s to the 1990s recorded a steady decline; however the rates have stabilized from the 90s to date recording an insignificant improvement. A look at the 1999 and the 2000 reports indicate that 5% of all students that had joined high school in the respective years dropped out within a year. This is in according to the available education department’s event dropout rates. The status dropout rates for 2000 indicate that â€Å"some 3. 8 million young adults were not enrolled in a high school program and had not completed high school. † (National Center for Education Statistics). Other available statistics on the dropout rates focus on the differences between gender and the racial groups. They have indicated that 5. 8% of male students are more likely to dropout compared to whose dropout rate is 4. 3%. The gender disparities in the dropout rate are witnessed across all the ethnic and racial groups with male students being the most affected. The dropout rate for the minority groups has remained higher than that of white Americans. The Latinos lead the group of the minorities with a rate of 27. 5%; African Americans have 13. 6% while the whites have a dropout rate of 7. 9%. This is according to the 1993 survey although these rates have remained fairly constant since then. (National Institute on the Education of At Risk Students, 1996) Having looked at the existing statistics, it is important to look at the reasons behind these statistics. There exists immense research on the causes of high school dropouts but it is important to point out that they focus on a variety of issues depending on the discipline. The ethnographic studies for example may focus on the issues of minorities and the social causes of their dropout. Attempts therefore to establish the specific factors are impeded by the existence of â€Å"a large variety of factors that predict or influence dropout behaviors, ranging from family background to school characteristics. † (Richard, 2002, 120) Scholars however have observed that students drop out of schools either after being ‘pushed out’ by the school environment or after being ‘pulled away’ by factors beyond the school curriculum. (Jay W. , 1999). A survey conducted on the various reasons behind the high school drop out rates revolve around vague reasons such boring classes and hard exams. These though are the pointer towards the major factors that contribute towards high school dropout rates. The causes range from academic challenges, economic, social and personal reasons One of the major ‘push out’ cause of dropout of high school can be traced to the various schools’ requirements to undertake an exit exam as the precondition for graduation. A look at the United States reveals that most states have put forth a requirement for a standardized test to mark the graduation of students from high school. Exit exams were adopted to enable states to standardize their tests and upgrade their diplomas. Where the merits of these exams have been widely noted, criticism has been leveled against them alleging that they exert too much pressure on the high school students. The basic purpose of exit exams is to ensure that the quality of the diploma is maintained, today however it is being seen as pushing students out of school, â€Å"these critics rely upon the push-out-myth- the idea that requiring students to pass exit exams forces students to drop out of high school. † (Jay P. , 2006, 127). The conclusion that stringent exam requirement may push students out of school has been reached after examining performance records and transcripts belonging to those that have dropped out. Studies have pointed out a streak of dismal performance by most of them indicating a sense of hopelessness on the drop outs. Some students have blamed the dismal performance on the lack of motivation by their teachers. Another possible cause of school dropout is peer influence. Peers are an important component to the development of an individual and also as socialization agents. It has been established that the influence of the family to the life of adolescents is fast waning and its place taken over by peers. The issue of how peers influence school drop out rate is broad and has been found to be an important factor. School dropouts have claimed to have been influenced by their peers to quit schools especially for those that had non schooling friends. This is so as peer influence has been found to either be a source of motivation or discouragement. This has been problematic as most of these have plunged into the crime world led by their peers. Working students also find it hard to cope with both tasks and most have even been found to give up education in the belief that they will resume later. Unsupportive parents have also been known to lead their children out of schools due to lack of moral support. Just like there is no single cause behind the high rates of school dropouts, there is no single remedy for the problem. It requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates both students and the teachers. It has been found that most students drop out of schools to escape the taxing nature of academics and exams. While it is not prudent to change the existing exams, it would be appropriate to put measures to ensure that the tests would not be an excuse to drive students out of school. As Marvin (2003, 215) has pointed out, â€Å"states should look for more ways to identify students at risk and consider instituting or adapting existing programs to support students before they drop out. † The best approach hence would be to incorporate a support program to help students cope with the rising challenges. This should include providing extra school tutoring and retake programs for students that perform dismally in the first attempts. This should also include introducing changes to the academic programs to ensure that they are more responsive and relevant to the student lives. The government also should roll out programs that aim towards sensitizing students on the need to stay in school. A number of factors that contribute to high rates of school dropout are social-psychological meaning that they can be eradicated through creation of awareness and general counseling. It is also important to involve students in the process of policy making to ensure that their expectations and views are incorporated and hence make them feel that they have a bigger stake in the school programs. Indeed there much has to be done to reduce the number of students that fail to complete their high school. The dropout rates indicated above are worrisome. More also needs to be done to bridge the dropout disparities across the racial groups. Students should be sensitized on the dangers of dropping out of schools especially as they are exposing themselves to the risks of unemployment as well as crime.

Banquos Purpose in Shakespeares Macbeth Essay -- essays research pap

Banquo's purpose in the play is the quintessential foil of Macbeth, both in acting, as well as in meaning. Shakespeare utilizes Banquo in order to create opposite moods to what is the drive of the play, which is Macbeth and his wife plotting, scheming, and murdering, by offering great solid blocks of integrity, passion, and goodness, that slightly descend into questioning. In contrast to Macbeth's ambitious state, his transformation into an immoral form of such a state, and his acting on such, Shakespeare creates Banquo in order to give the reader a feeling for contrasting points in order to augment, and practically create, the play. When confronted by the Weà ¯rd Sisters for the first time, both Macbeth and Banquo are given prophesies, however, the wiser Banquo is able to qualm his curiosity. Banquo attempts to share his knowledge with Macbeth by explaining ?to win us to our harm, the instruments of darkness tell us truths to betray?s in deepest consequence (I.iii). Banquo immediately questions the prophecies and their potential, wisely tempering his ambition without further ...

Data Warehouse: Understanding Rei

John Smith Dr. Daniels 2/14/13 Chapter 5 Video Case 1. Data warehouses store current as well as historical data and are used for creating trending reports for senior management reporting such as annual and quarterly comparisons. REI is building a data warehouse because they want to better serve their customers with their products. The data ware house allows REI to make the customers experience with their company a much more fulfilling one ensuring their return. 2.Consumer cooperatives have some disadvantages in comparison to traditional firms. Consumer cooperatives require a high level of organization. Because the consumers are helping to make many decisions there are more legal responsibilities for the company. The company must listen to the consumers and also provide rules that the consumer cooperative must follow as a whole. While it is great for the consumers to be so involved, traditional firms have less of a hassle and don’t need to take so many extra steps when making d ecisions. . REI’s data warehouse will allow them to create more marketing strategies, specifically on their online shopping Website. With the use of the data warehouse, REI’s website will be able to recognize customers when they log on to the Website. By doing this, REI can tailor products or information to the customer each time they log on. 4. Some risks of creating a data warehouse would be organization.Without proper organization the company will not be able to achieve the strategic objectives set out by top management. This will make the company seem unprepared and ultimately give their customers an unpleasant experience. 5. REI chose to work with IBM data technology because IBM has very effective and organized systems that make managing the data warehouses simple and easy. This allows REI to make effective strategic objectives and marketing strategies for the company to follow and accomplish.

Magnolia Therapeutic Solutions Case Study

Magnolia Therapeutic Solutions is a well known nonprofit that provides psychotherapy for clients with Post Traumatic Syndrome Disorder (PSTD). Magnolia contributed several hours of intensive help to the victims of 911. In return NYC gave the organization a large grant to help it meet the demands of PSTD services. Mary Stewart, the founder of the organization believed that the grant given in 2001 would be renewed in 2002 as well. Much to her surprise the grant was not renewed. The grant was already factored into her budget for 2002 and she had to go back and revise the budget. Mary was $500,000 short and in turn had to lay off one third of the employees. My Decision Versus the Boards The board of directors chose to approve the budget, based on Mary’s 2001 budget and financials. My decision would have been the complete opposite. The decision I would have made was to ask Mary for documents backing up the proposed budget. Mary made the budget based on her grants and fundraising from 2001. She did not take into consideration that the grant may not have been renewed. If she had made a lower budget, or even a back up budget, she would have had an alternative plan if NYC did not renew the grant. I made the decision I did because Mary’s 2002 budget was made up on monies she was not even sure that she would have. Mary even based the development department raising more money on a grant she was not even sure would be offered to the organization. Organizational infrastructure had a large affect on my decision to reject the budget. The policies and procedures that are put into place by an organization are done so to build accountability and adjust to internal and external requirements. According to Business Development Group, Inc (1999-2009), â€Å"Properly implemented policies and procedures prove to be very critical for achieving growth and profitability through the more efficient allocation and utilization of a company's limited resources† (para. 3). Causes Behind the Ultimate Problem There were several causes behind the ultimate problems Magnolia suffered. This seems to have stemmed from the lack of accountability and responsibility with the financial management. First, Mary had written a budget based on funds that were not guaranteed. She even based raising money for the organization on higher grants for 2002. Since the 2002 budget was written on false grants, this caused a huge problem and several staff members got laid off. This caused the organization to come to a stand still. This problem could have been solved a few different ways. Either by writing a budget with the grants and funds Mary knew 100% would be available. Or she could have written the budget with the NYC grant and had a back up budget incase it was not renewed. This way the board of directors could have seen either way Mary had a budget that could actually be carried out. Secondly, in 2001 the organization used the remainder of the grant to â€Å"increase other administrative services. † The surplus from the grants in 2001 should have been budgeted into the growing organization and the services provided, not administrative services. â€Å"The identification of a human service agency’s programs, the creation of a program structure, the assignment of program managers, and the designation of responsibility centers are the basic building blocks of financial management† (Martin, 2001, p. 16). Main Differences There are several differences in a non-profits inability to thrive and a for-profits inability to thrive. First, a non-profit can fail in acquiring â€Å"revenue† by not getting enough grants and not having enough staff. For-profits fail to get revenue by not making enough profit. Secondly, non-profits accrue expenses through program supplies, staffing, bills, and rental space. A for-profit accrues expenses through production, staffing, bills, paying out shareholders and owners, and getting the necessary supplies to keep up with newer products/technology. Lastly, non-profits do not have the resources to pay employees/volunteers for training or higher education. This could result in a nonprofit’s inability to thrive. Training key employees is usually part of most for-profit organizations. Money is typically not an issue and organizations that make a profit know if they put money into an employees training, the end results will come back to them. Risk Management â€Å"Risk management can be defined as the identification, planned control, and reduction of risks to a human service agency† (Martin, 2001, p. 187). Magnolia’s deficit happened because Mary and the organization did not have any risk management set in place. Had the organization had a risk management plan, Mary would have known better than planning a budget with unknown funds. â€Å"A formalized risk management program is one of the few ways a human service agency can reduce service delivery costs without cutting either staff positions or operating budgets† (Martin, 2001, p. 187). If Magnolia had used the essential tasks of risk management it may have been able to find a way to keep employees or get funding elsewhere. The five tasks are risk identification, risk evaluation, risk control, risk funding, and administration. These tasks are a key component in helping nonprofits thrive. Had Magnolia identified problems or issues that could potentially happen with the budget and shortfalls it could have minimized the outcome. Conclusion Because of Mary Stewart Magnolia had become a nonprofit organization that was helping in such a needed area, PSTD. Magnolia continued to thrive and receive many awards for the services performed. The organization received a large 1-year grant from NYC to help 911 PSTD victims. When it came time for Mary to write the budget for 2002 she included the 2001 1-year grant from NYC. In the end Mary’s budget caused a deficit in the organization and one third of the employees had to be laid off. If there had been a better risk management plan in order this could have been prevented. Also, if Mary had created a budget that was based on grants she knew they would be receiving the organization could have continued providing the excellent services at the same rate.

NASA and Project Juno Essay Example

NASA and Project Juno Essay Example NASA and Project Juno Essay NASA and Project Juno Essay Introduction Jupiter is the fifth planet from the sun and is the largest planet in all of our solar system. Jupiter is more than twice as massive as all of the other planets combined and is made from about 90% hydrogen and 10% helium. Despite having sent different spaceships and orbiters to observe Jupiter there is a lot more to learn about the planet. That is why from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on August 5, 2011, NASA New Frontiers mission launched a spacecraft named â€Å"Juno† to study and find out more about Jupiter. More specifically, Juno will map Jupiter’s gravity field, magnetic field and its atmospheric structure from a polar orbit. The whole purpose of this mission is to have a better understanding of the formation of our solar system and planetary systems discovered around the stars. Why Jupiter? The primary scientific goal of the NASA space mission Juno is to drastically improve our understanding of the planet Jupiter. Jupiter, which is considered, as the â€Å"Gas Giant Planet† and scientists believe that Jupiter can show the secrets to the fundamental processes of the formation of our solar system. Scientists at NASA have developed different theories as to how Jupiter was formed. Some believed that it began as a solid chunk of heavy material, like rock or ice. As gravity gathered debris, its gravitational pull increased and eventually it became big enough to attract light gases. Another theory is that Jupiter was formed when a small region of the gas disk around the sun collapsed on its own. Whatever the case is, they are all theories. They are all ideas of how Jupiter was formed, and no one really knows how Jupiter was made for sure. Which is why the Juno mission was launched. If we can find out what makes Jupiter’s core and exactly how much water the planet contains we can narrow down the number of theories that were developed by the scientists. Jupiter has long intrigued scientists since Galileo’s time.

Bavarian Dialect

Bavarian Dialect Who hasnt  heard of Bavaria? It is such a popular travel destination, offering everything from the fairy tale Neuschwannstein castle to the not-to-miss yearly Oktoberfest. As a tourist, Bavaria is fairly easy to explore and travel in, but as a German learner, not so if you want to really immerse in their culture. The barrier for any German learner or even Germans from other parts of Germany is  das baierische  Dialekt. True, Bavarians do speak Hochdeutsch as well since  it is taught in schools, but as the bavarian dialect  Ã‚  is the daily language  of choice among Bavarians,  you need to know some Bavarian in order to get by. But of course to complicate things further for the German language learner,  there are several bavarian dialects!  There are three main ones: northern bavarian (mainly spoken in upper Palatinate), central bavarian (spoken mostly along the main rivers  Isar  and  Danube, and  in upper Bavaria  including  Munich) and southern bavarian (mostly in Tyrol region). The Baierisch  that you hear on the bavarian tv channel is mostly the central bavarian dialect coming from Munich. There is hardly any bavarian literature out there.  Bavarian is considered to be a spoken language rather than a written one,  even though the bible was translated into Bavarian as well.   So how different is Bavarian from standard German? See if you can understand the following Bavarian tongue twister: Oa Zwetschgn im Batz dadatscht und oa im Batz dadatschte Zwetschgn gaabatn zwoa batzige dadatschte Zwetschgn und an batzign Zwetschgndatschi! Exactly! Now for something easier. Heres a silly  Bavarian poem: Da Jackl und sei Fackl Da Jackl, der Lackl,backts Fackl am Krogn,duads Fackl in a Sackl,mechts mim Hackl daschlogn. Aba as Fackl, so a Prackl,is koa Dackl im Frack,beißt an Jackl, den Lackl,durchs Sackl ins Gnack!                                                                           -  Barbara Lexa Better, nicht wahr? In standard German, the  poem would read as follows: Jakob, dieser Flegel,packt das Ferkel am Kragen,steckt das Ferkel in ein Sckchen,mà ¶chte es mit der Axt erschlagen. Aber das Ferkel, so ein Ungetà ¼m,ist kein Dachshund mit Frack,beißt den Jakob, diesen Flegel,durch’s Sckchen hindurch ins Genick.   And finally heres the English translation: Jakob, dieser Flegel,packt das Ferkel am Kragen,steckt das Ferkel in ein Sckchen,mà ¶chte es mit der Axt erschlagen. Aber das Ferkel, so ein Ungetà ¼m,ist kein Dachshund mit Frack,beißt den Jakob, diesen Flegel,durch’s Sckchen hindurch ins Genick. Hopefully, I havent discouraged you from visiting the Bavarian state, but please do not go there without learning   at least some common Bavarian phrases and words. Bavarians will be flattered that you have made the effort to learn a bit  of their language and you wont feel completely lost either when somebody addresses you   or uses some of the following phrases: To greet someone: Gruss GottWhen leaving: Pfiat eich! Until next time!Also very popular: Servus   This word can be used informally   either as hi or as goodbye with somebody with whom you are on familiar terms with. Sapperlot  »It is used to express surprise or enthusiasm in the same sort of way as more modern terms such as Alle Achtung! and Respekt! but it is also used in the same way as swear words to express frustration or outrage. These are just a few words and phrases. For more  Bavarian vocabulary and expressions, read here. There is one final point  about the bavarian dialect that I want that will gladden the heart of any German language learner:  The bavarian grammar is a little simpler from the standard German one:  Ã‚  only articles are declined,  PLUS, the simple past is hardly ever used! Thats one more reason to learn some Bavarian. Now go and visit Bavaria! Pfiat eich!

Personal statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

Personal Statement Example That is why I have always advocated charity clinics and free consultations for those in need whenever I have the time to spare. The volunteer service and hospital based training I did in India allowed me to treat medical cases that helped enhance my patient diagnosing skills. These were on the job experiences that came in handy when I came over to the US for further training. Although only a student under the supervision of internal/family medicine physicians, I am currently being allowed to develop my skills by working alongside them in clinical trials while I continue to pursue the requirements to complete my medical residency in the U.S. This type of interaction with both patients and fellow physicians has certainly come a long way in honing what I hope to be world class physician skills in the future. I know very well that I need to keep myself physically and emotionally well-rounded as well if I am to continue serving my patients to the best of my abilities. That is why I always take the time during my very busy work week to stay fit with various sports activities like tennis. I also make sure to set aside my weekends to reconnect with my family. These activities will help me deal with the high pressure job of being a doctor and has translated into continuously improving and evolving medical skills for my patients. I have been taught b

Compare and contrast the use of dramatic irony in Oedipus Rex and Essay

Compare and contrast the use of dramatic irony in Oedipus Rex and Doll's House - Essay Example th plays use dramatic irony to develop conflict in situations that would otherwise not appear to have any, but they differ greatly in how that irony is developed and who is aware of what; in â€Å"Oedipus Rex† the irony develops as a slow but inevitable march towards disaster, making the tone of the play about sweeping concepts like fate, whereas in â€Å"A Doll House† the irony develops through constant attempts by each character to hide their actions from each other, making the play a universal parable about the life of the typical 19th century family. Both â€Å"Oedipus Rex† and â€Å"A Doll House† are similar in using dramatic irony in a plot that would otherwise be bereft of conflict. For instance, in Oedipus, there is no particular antagonist as exists in a traditional narrative – Oedipus is essentially a hero and an anti-hero. The plot revolves around a â€Å"murder† that happened before the play even begins (Sophocles 18), and centers on a quest in which the hero eventually finds himself guilty of that same murder. Likewise, in â€Å"A Doll House,† one of the central themes is the inability of this family to openly communicate with each other, until the relationships in the family erode to the point that Nora, the protagonist â€Å"does not love† her husband Helmer anymore (Ibsen 1333), leaving her house â€Å"empty† when she goes (1333). Obviously this lack of communication would not function to advance the plot if the audience could not see it develop; thus â€Å"A Doll Hou se† uses dramatic irony to advance the plot While both â€Å"Oedipus† and â€Å"A Doll House† use irony to advance the plot, the effects of that irony on the viewer are very different, because the mechanism of developing the irony is very different between the two works. In â€Å"Oedipus,† the narrative relies almost entirely on outside knowledge of events to drive the irony. The audience never sees the events that set Oedipus up to kill his father or sleep with his mother, so when he