Classic Literature Essay

Writers also use a foil character as well as irony of circumstances. A foil character is used to create suspense because the reader doesn’t know how the foil character will react in his situation, or how the other characters will react to him. Another element writers use is foreshadowing. Writers reveal some details in the story to lull the reader into thinking something is going to happen a certain way. However, when the writer uses irony of circumstances, the reader is caught off guard because the story didn’t end the way the expected it. rs use foreshadow and irony of circumstances to create suspense in their stories. Kate Chopin uses foreshadow in her story â€Å"Desiree’s Baby.† In â€Å"The Story of an Hour,† she uses irony of circumstances. Let’s first look at â€Å"Desiree’s Baby.† She uses foreshadowing to create suspense. Writers reveal certain things about characters to prepare the reader for the outcome. This creates suspense because the readers want to continue reading when they catch a glimpse of a character or the character’s actions. Through these revelations, readers anticipate how the story will end, so they continue reading to find out what does happen. Kate Chopin uses foreshadow in â€Å"Desiree’s Baby.† When Desiree notices something different about her baby, she talks to Armand. He tells her that the baby’s coloring indicates only one thing–he is part black. Armand accuses Desiree of deceiving him. Chopin uses a certain passage to foreshadow things about Desiree that may reveal what will happen to the characters in the end. Desiree told Armand, † ‘Look at my hair, it is brown; and my eyes are gray, Armand, you know they are gray. And my skin is fair, †¦ Look at my hand; whiter than yours, Armand.’ † These details show the reader that Desiree is lighter than Armand. The reader becomes confused and wonders what is happening. A writer uses foreshadowing to reveal certain details that lulls the reader into thinking a certain way. Then, through the use of another technique called irony of circumstances, a writer wants to surprise the reader at the end of the story by making an  unusual turn of events. At the end of the story, Chopin finally reveals that Armand is the one who is half white and half black and not Desiree. Just like â€Å"Desiree’s Baby,† Chopin uses irony of circumstances in â€Å"The Story of an Hour.† Mrs. Mallard is waiting of news about her husband, whom she thought might have died since he had been gone so long. When Mrs. Mallard is told that her husband’s name is on the list of those who were killed, Mrs. Mallard is devastated. However, her attitude changes quickly because she is free to do what she wants. The reader is still held in suspense because he or she doesn’t know what Mrs. Mallard is going to do until the end of the story. The reader is surprised when Mrs. Mallard’s husband shows up alive, and when Mrs. Mallard dies after seeing her husband. Even though Chopin uses foreshadowing, she still catches the reader off guard by using irony of circumstances.

Investment Opportunity Essay

What is the interest rate or coupon rate?   The stockbroker has already given us the answer to this and it is already very appealing. What is the bond price? The stated bond price refers to the cost of purchase or investment in the bond issue. This part of the question should also include elaboration of the yield to maturity period.   The referred yield to maturity of a bond is the expected rate of return until the bond matures. What is the bonds credit quality, its rating and is it insured? The credit rating of a bond is an initial indicator of the views of the market place considering the position of the issuer’s ability to repay interest and principle on a timely basis. It is very convenient to be aware of the type of bond you want to invest in, that is, an investment grade bond or high yield If the bond is insured, there is guarantee that the investors will be indemnified for their principal amount and interest should the Yubetchyu state default. Investors are also privileged to purchase insurance on purchases of secondary market bonds. What is the tax status? Different types of bonds have different tax status. Interest income from the United States for example is exempted from state and also local taxes. The stock broker should expound on whether the Yubetchyu state is likely to drop state and local income taxes. What is the tax break worth? There should be the ample consideration of the tax break worth. This is mostly determined by the state you are in and your income tax bracket. It is therefore advisable to consult from financial professionals before investing in areas carrying out tax implications. What is the actual yield after my broker has taken his commission and fees? Calculations of the total yield should be done with relevance to deductions. It is calculated as follows:   Annual Interest à · Price = Yield, this however does not reflect fees charged on the brokers commission or the overall transaction. This is rather calculated as a percentage of the sales. What is the transaction type of the bond? Before purchasing a bond, it is important to know whether the bond is being offered for the first time or not. New issue bonds are more likely to prove difficult to invest in since the competition is against institutions and professional investors. Finally how credible is my advisor? Is he a registered one and if so, how long has he been working in the field of investing in bonds for clients. By asking these questions, you determine what kind of investment advisor you are associating with.

BUILDING E-COMMERCE APPLICATIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE Assignment

BUILDING E-COMMERCE APPLICATIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE - Assignment Example on for businesses who are aiming to step into the digital world, although it might sound ancient but there are many businesses that are not making the most of the web tools. Campmor turned to their program integrators Tychon Solution so they could really be able to exploit the web analytical tools. After the masterful tweaks from their internet solution providers, they were able to document from which part of the world they were getting most visitors from and for who long they stay on their web page and which items they are most interested in, that is pure marketing manipulative exploitative tactic. They also upgraded their whole website so that it became truly user-friendly and people were not abandoning their sopping when they took out their credit cards to buy because it became easier to navigate through the website. There is a lot more to building an EC application than to be able to really put it to use. Having a sniper rifle is one thing, having the skill of breathing, wind direction, sunlight, target movement, length of the bullet, range of the gun, trajectory and even the earth’s rotation, is quite another. The EC architecture, its design and how it can be customized to fit a business need is the real ingredient to online business success. D-M-E is another success example of incorporating EC to modify their cloud presence. Knowing how to exploit the Internet marketing, almost any business can tremendously increase their

Financial Analysis of a Local Government in South Florida Essay - 1

Financial Analysis of a Local Government in South Florida - Essay Example the findings of my financial analysis revealed that: Net assets of FKEC activities decreased 2.1 percent to $123.5 million. However, most of those net assets are either restricted as to the purposes they can be used for or they are invested in capital assets. Unrestricted net assets showed a $0.1 million surplus at the end of this year. This surplus does not mean that FKEC has significant resources available to pay its bills next year. (Monroe County 2003) Rather, it is the result of having long-term commitments that are a little less than currently available resources. The surplus balance has remained similar to the prior year. Specifically, FKEC did not include in past annual budgets the full amounts needed to finance future liabilities arising from various claims and to pay for unused employee vacation and sick days. FKEC will include these amounts in future years' budgets as they come due. (Monroe County Although the net assets of our business-type activities increased by 3.5 percent to $85.6 million, these resources cannot be used in governmental activities. FKEC generally can only use these net assets to finance the continuing operations of its business activities such as food service. Changes in net assets. FKEC’s total revenues increased by 3.9 percent to $114.3 million. (See below)A significant portion, 49 percent of FKEC's revenue comes from taxes. (See below Twenty-five percent comes from state allocations, and most of the rest is from federal and state grants.

Ec 4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Ec 4 - Essay Example These two definitions are summarized as historical genesis and current utility. This presents a dilemma of incorporating distinct criteria of current utility and historical genesis under a single phrase. Biologists have failed to to acknowledge the confusion between these two distinct definitions for they tend to observe natural selection as a dominant evolutionary progression, making the historical process and the current utility seem as combined (Gould & Vrba 7). An outstanding instance of how linking these two definitions has caused misunderstanding is Darwins’ and Williams’ failure to label the infused sutures as adaptation since they were not built by selection to function as they do in mammals (Gould & Vrba 7). Williams calls this feature as an accidental effect that aids in the survival of mammals and not an adaptation. Nonetheless, these biologists failed to give the features that develop as a result of fitness to a current role a name (Gould & Vrba 7-9). Since the new features that develop in organisms to aid in the survival of the descen dants re not considered as an adaptation, they develop due to capability and not natural selection and are referred as exaptation. This, then, generates a variance between those features that develop due to natural selection and fitness to a current role. In this case, the mammalian sutures are an exaptation and not adaptation (Gould & Vrba 7-10). Exaptation offers a solution to the dilemma of preadaptation. Evolutionists and biologists have experienced trouble with the concept of preadaptation. Most of them have connected the features that develop to assist in performing a new role as preadaptation. If adaptation were developed for a current use, then structures functioning in a distinct and subsequent way cannot be preadaptations. In this case, preadaptation has been associated with indeterminate teology. Teology implies a description of the role of a given

Databases Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Databases - Essay Example Stephens (2010) defines a database simply as a tool that stores data. Stephens further notes that the database gives one the opportunity to create, read, delete and update information somehow. In this sense, Stephens include filing cabinets, the brain and notebooks as databases. With regard to computer science and information technology, a database is generally defined as an organized collection of information in digital form such that a computer program can fast chose the data pieces that are desired (Connolly and Begg (2002). A database may be made for one or more purposes and may be though of as an electronic filing system. Traditionally, databases may be organized by files, records and fields. A file in this respect is a set of records, a field represents one piece of information while a record represents a complete set of fields Types of Databases Different organizations and experts categorize databases differently. Some experts categorize database types as analytic databases an d operational databases. Based on functionality, databases may be categorized as hierarchical and network. According to The One Stop Website Shop (2012), two main types of databases however exist; relational and flat-file. The flat file type is generally suited to handling small amounts of information that need to should be readable to humans and editable by hand. Basically, the flat-file database consists of a set of strings stored in a single or more files. The file(s) can be parsed to retrieve the data that are stored therein as noted by Date (2003). The flat-file is favourable when the data to be stored is simple, and in the form of data values and lists. However, this type of database can be complicated if the replication of more complex data structures is involved according to The One Stop Website Shop (2012). One other disadvantage with these types of database lies in the fact that they are easy to corrupt. The relational databases have more logical structures compared to the ir flat-file counterpart in view of the way that information is stored. Relational databases in existence today include Oracle, SQL Server and MySQL. In the relational database, a table is used to represent actual objects, and every field acts as an attribute. As an example, a table that contains information about books could contain columns for the author, tile and ISBN. These arch details which describe the books contained in the table. Yet again, the table contains rows each of which represents anew book. The relation evident in relational databases exist in the reality that various tables can be linked to one another. The relations can be extremely complex and difficult to replicate in the flat-file type of database. In spite of its complexity, the relational database is advantageous in the sense that duplication of data is avoided if the database is properly designed. Databases Management Systems In order to access information contained in a database, one needs a database manag ement system (DBMS). A database management system in this respect is a set of programs that enables one to enter, select and organize data contained in the database. Database management system may also be defined as a department that controls, structures and maintains a database in use (Date 2003). The DBMS permits access to one and the same database by various user application programs. Examples of DBMS include Basex, Oracle and Sedna, just to mention a few. Use and Roles

Multicultural Education Improvement Research Paper

Multicultural Education Improvement - Research Paper Example Banks (1994) identifies five dimensions of multicultural education.   The first of these dimensions are â€Å"content integration† which is a technique by which educators ensure that teaching reflects cultural diversity (Banks 1994, p. 4). An example is to emphasize contributions in the field of study by diverse cultural heroes. Secondly, educators utilize â€Å"knowledge construction† which informs students how perspectives are influenced by â€Å"conclusions reached within that discipline† (Banks 1994, p. 5).   The third dimension of multicultural education is referred to by Banks (1994) as â€Å"prejudice reduction† which helps students to form objective views of diverse groups (p. 5). The fourth dimension is â€Å"equitable pedagogy† which attempts to alter classroom instructions that all students among different cultural groups perform academically.   The final dimension is â€Å"empowering school culture and social structure† whic h focuses on the environment within the school and ensuring that it supports diversity among the student body. Multicultural education can be defined as education strategies designed to accommodate teaching and learning for diverse cultures.   The idea is to provide for fostering pluralism among races, cultures and classes.   Theoretically at least, if students are subjected to multicultural education that is properly integrated into teaching and learning processes, attachment and engagement should improve.   ... 5). The third dimension of multicultural education is referred to by Banks (1994) as â€Å"prejudice reduction† which helps students to form objective views of diverse groups (p. 5). The fourth dimension is â€Å"equitable pedagogy† which attempts to alter classroom instructions that all students among different cultural groups perform academically (Banks 1994, p. 5). The final dimension is â€Å"empowering school culture and social structure† which focuses on the environment within the school and ensuring that it supports diversity among the student body (Banks 1994, p. 5). Multicultural education can be defined as education strategies designed to accommodate teaching and learning for diverse cultures. The idea is to provide for fostering pluralism among races, cultures and classes. Theoretically at least, if students are subjected to multicultural education that is properly integrated into teaching and learning processes, attachment and engagement should improv e. Ukpokodu (2009) informs that if multicultural education focuses on transformative learning, students of all races, cultures and classes transform their way of thinking and their perspectives and attitudes to more democratic and objective ways of thinking (2). Arguably, students become more responsible citizens and want to be productive citizens. As Banks (2008) argues, responsible citizenship can be hampered and can be lost on minorities when they are forced to detach themselves from their own cultures and languages (p. 130). Therefore by virtue of transformative learning under the auspices of effective multicultural education, students can be expected to become more engaged and attached to school, as they are not forced to become detached from their own cultures, races and classes. To

PERSONAL ETHICAL DEVELOPMENT EXERCISE Assignment

PERSONAL ETHICAL DEVELOPMENT EXERCISE - Assignment Example Mental well being of an individual is the overall result of his mind, body and soul. Therefore, it is essential to deal with the various issues confronting an individual in all these aspects. I will try to understand the various issues concerning the people of my responsibility and guide them in their mental requirements. I will assume the role of a mentor who can approach and assist them in any difficult situation. I will be greatly aware of my role as a leader in the physical well being of my people and I will always seek ways to ensure that they are physically and mentally fit. I will make sure that they go through physical training programs regularly and motivate them about the need of a sound body for a sound mind. In order to encourage them in maintaining their good health, I will also conduct such programs that motivate them. In keeping the unity and values of family relationship intact, I will encourage constant cooperation among the family members and such activities as sharing, discussions, entertainments, etc will be encouraged. I will always ensure that the people in the family and friend-circle know each other very deeply. I will encourage my acquaintances to share each other and motivate and help mutually. In the areas of education and career, I will always be cooperative with and helpful to other individuals of the group and I will ensure that there is long lasting harmony and unity in the group. I will be useful to all my colleagues and mates in their needs and will always search for their assistance and cooperation at times of need. Finances/Stewardship As a leader, I will always be careful about dealing with the finances and use my stewardship in the most effective way. I will look into the needs of my people and make use of the resources for their assistance. I will also motivate them as a steward and would not let go anything wrong about in my responsibility. I will always make sure that the people entrusted to me are at ease and comfort, and I will give priority to their needs. Service/Philanthropy In areas of service and charity, I will always maintain decorum and propriety in my activities and the people who reach out for my service or philanthropy will never be dissatisfied or frustrated about my role. I will always ensure that the people in need are given the best treatment and their comforts are always looked for. PERSONAL MISSION WORKSHEET Why do I desire to become as an organizational leader The role of an organizational leader is inevitable in the contemporary context of business and I feel it is the best way to be an agent of change in the industry. In the progress of an organization, the role of the leader is often emphasized and as a leader I desire to get the organization progressing, to get it operating at high efficiency in order to meet its short-term goals as well as the long term goals. "In a large complex organization and environment only a 100% fully engaged human leader can hope to achieve these lofty requirements to fulfill their duties. Thus, leadership is not for everyone, and leadership is one with responsibility. A leader must be able to

Prewriting Exercise Essay Example for Free

Prewriting Exercise Essay STEP 2) Describe two controversies surrounding this topic The first controversy is with regard to the idea of a universal health care system for the United States as a solution to its current health care situation of having an increasing rate of uninsurance among its working populace. While there is considerable current literature that argue that government should be able to provide adequate health care for all of its citizens, the questions of prioritization and proper allocation of funding comes into play. Specific research would have to be found to quantify as well as qualify the problem of uninsurance so as to evaluate just how much government action ought to be necessary.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The second controversy is whether or not current government action in terms of federal funding for Medicare and Medicaid is sufficient to address the needs of Americans. This issue examines what both of the programs currently provide and how much each has actually helped the American public in facing health service issues. Again, factual research need to be complied in order to present a clear picture of how much these programs are helping so that a sound conclusion regarding whether they are helping enough can be reached. STEP 3) Describe which side of the argument you feel is right and why I believe that given the current health care needs of the American public, serious consideration of establishing a universal health are system should be deeply considered. I also believe that current measures are not enough. Of course, these are assertions that I’ve initially made based on personal experiences in my interactions with individuals seeking health care support from the government. Therefore, I would need to gather more solid, factual information to support my claims. I will need to explore the concept of a universal health care system better in terms of its application to other countries so that I can have a deeper perspective on what needs to be done. STEP 4) Formulate a working thesis sentence The development of a universal health care system is a positive step towards the solution of the American uninsurance problem.

Financial Analysis of Northrop Grumman Essay Example for Free

Financial Analysis of Northrop Grumman Essay The fiscal analysis of Northrop Grumman includes the examination of profitability, liquidity, and equity ratios, its 3 year stock price, as well as a general financial overview of the company. This case study exams their fiscal strategy as well as the debt utilization and possible effects of the fiscal crisis on Northrop Grumman. This document compares Northrop Grumman to other companies in the defense sector by comparing their ratios as well profitability. The paper will provide the reader with an understanding of the financial makeup of the company and its current and recent performance as well as estimates of future earnings. Overview of Northrop Grumman Northrop Grumman is one of the world’s major defense contractors. Northrop Grumman is an innovative company that has long history of making aircraft and other products that support the defense industry. Northrop Grumman is made up of the former Northrop and Grumman companies and eighteen other companies that have been integrated into one successful corporation. Northrop Grumman has four primary sectors in its business model: aerospace systems, electronic systems, information systems, and technical services. The company has its headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia, and production facilities across the United States, with major facilities in California, Virginia, and Maryland. Northrop Grumman is the third largest defense contractor in the world. Some of Northrop Grumman’s primary competitors are Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Boeing, and L-3 Communications Holdings, Inc. Northrop Grumman plans on remaining competitive even with the threat of sequestration looming over the federal government and the threat of an additional $500 Billion in defense cuts above the currently planned $500 billion in defense cuts. They plan on remaining competitive by being able to successfully develop and market their products, to stay ahead of the competition. This is done by reaming innovative, and providing the facilities and people to accomplish these goals of developing and manufacturing new products and support businesses and governments in information technology. History of Northrop Grumman Northrop was founded in 1939 by Jack Northrop in Hawthorne, California. The company produced its first aircraft in 1940, the N-3PB patrol bomber for the Norwegian Air Force. The first production aircraft for the United States Army Air Force was the P-61 Black Widow. They continued developing aircraft for the United States Air Force, competing in the bomber contract in the mid-1940s for the long range heavy bomber contracts using his radical flying wing designs of the XB-35 and XB-49, which were in competition with the B-36 and B-47. This was a highlight of Jack Northrop’s development of technologically advanced aircraft. In 1959, they had the first flight of the F-5 a supersonic low cost fighter that would serve as the basis of the T-38 supersonic jet trainer for the USAF, and later on the F-20 an upgraded version of the F-5. They also designed the US first ICBM the Shark. They continued with development of many programs culminating with the B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber, currently the most advanced and expensive bomber ever built for the US Air Force. In 1994 they acquired the Grumman Corporation and became Northrop Grumman. The Grumman Corporation started out in the 1930 was instrumental in the development of Naval Aircraft. They built the XFF-1, built in 1931, was the first naval aircraft with retractable landing gear. The built the widely successfully naval fighters the Wildcat with the first ever sto-wing and the Hellcat one of the most successfully carrier aircraft of World War Two. Grumman continued to develop aircraft for the United States Navy, developing the F9F Panther, one of the United States Navy’s earliest jet fighters. Grumman continued to develop jet aircraft, including the A-6 Intruder family of aircraft for the Navy, as well as the F-14 Tomcat, made famous by the movie Top Gun. Most notably the Grumman designed and built the Lunar Lander for the Apollo program. Key Products Northrop Grumman is primarily involved in four related by also distinct industries which are also their core competencies. They are involved in aerospace systems, electrical systems, information systems and technology systems. Involvement in these key areas allows them to focus on their customers’ needs for unmanned air systems; command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR); logistics, and cyber security. The company is currently involved in a many major programs for the Defense Department. They are producing the RQ-4 Global Hawk an unmanned air system (UAS) that is the only UAS that is allowed to fly in US airspace. They are also developing and producing active electronically scanned array radars for the F-35 and F-16 as well as a multitude of electronic warfare systems like the US Navy’s Next Generation Jammer. The Lightning family of advanced targeting pods is also a key program within Northrop Grumman, with the L ightning Generation four reaching its 250th produced unit. Northrop Grumman is also developing the X-47b for the US Navy, which would give them a stealth carrier launched unmanned combat air vehicle, which would be the first for the US Navy. This aircraft also made history, by being the first unmanned combat air vehicle to accomplish a catapult launch, on 29 November 2012 at the Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland (McKinney 2012). Northrop Grumman is also a partner with Lockheed Martin in building major components to the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter Program, specifically the center fuselage and weapons bay. They also participate in the civilian sector with the flat sequencing system for the US Post Office, and information systems for the Department of Homeland Security and public 911 services. Financial Condition Northrop Grumman is a financially secure company that is looking to maintain its current status quo. According to their Value Line Report they were given an A++ rating for financial stability. Value Line is also estimating their 2012 revenues at $25100 million, which represents a decrease of $1312 million. Even though the company’s revenues have decreased since 2010, they have been able to maintain their strength in the defense industry. They are still the third largest defense contractor; even with their recent sell offs of Newport News and Huntington Ingalls Industries, Incorporated. This sell off, the drawdown in the Iraq and Afghanistan, and the decreases defense spending has led to a decrease in revenues however according to Value Time, their revenue in 2013 is estimated to be $2,500 million a decrease of only $100 million. Northrop Grumman also carriers a middle grade bond rating of BBB+, BBB+, and Baa+ from the 3 major bond raters, S P, Finch, and Moody’s. These rating show that Northrop Grumman is stable company with an average stock price for 2012 of $63.13. Northrop Grumman Fiscal Strategy Northrop Grumman’s corporate strategy can be explained in the 2011 Annual Report opening quote from CEO Web Bush, â€Å"2011 was an outstanding year for Northrop Grumman, affirming that our focus on performance, portfolio alignment and effective cash deployment continues to create value for our shareholders, customers and employees and position our company positively for the future.† This quote states the overall direction that CEO Web Bush is taking Northrop Grumman into the future. The key to this strategy is Northrop Grumman focusing on performance. An example of this was an earnings per share increase of 17% on diluted shares to $7.41 (Northrop Grumman 2011). In 2011, with the spinoff of their shipbuilding division, they were able to provide, $1.6 billion in equity to their shareholders (Northrop Grumman, 2012). These actions have all been to provide the most benefit to their shareholders. Northrop Grumman is also focusing in on the new strategies that the Department of Defense is pursuing, with over 90% of their business with the DoD and the US government by focusing in on the growth areas of the DoD. C4ISR, unmanned systems, cyber security, and logistics are leading the way as the new focus of Northrop Grumman as they are the portions of the DoD that will continue to grow with the current budget issues facing the Obama presidency. They are also continuing its focus on their aerospace division which is the most profitable, since Northrop Grumman is a prime contractor on the F-35 and the F/A-18, as well as the builder of the Global Hawk. They are also seeing the US budget problems as an ideal point to start pursue the international market place more, like the recent sale of Global Hawks to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Their continued focus of on stockholder’s value means they need to focus on their key priorities of unmanned air system, C4ISR, logistics, and cyber security. Another part of Northrop Grumman’s strategy is making minor and major acquisitions into other companies allowing them to expand their business, which in turn will help increase stockholders value. They will from time to time create strategic alliances, form joint ventures, and dispose of or spinoff companies when they believe that these actions will aid in creating more value for their stockholders. Northrop Grumman’s strategic plan is to continue to focus on increasing shareholder value as well as to continue to maintain their cutting edge in technology and in the defense industry, and to develop systems that will support the DoD new strategies as US forces leave Afghanistan and begin to focus on the Pacific Region. The current fiscal crisis that is gripping the US, with large cuts to the defense budget, expiration of the George W. Bush tax cuts, increased tax rates, cuts to social programs, and new taxes from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Ac 2010, will directly affect Northrop Grumman at all levels. However, Northrop Grumman is in a position to succeed with the cuts and tax increases and the possibility of another $500 billion in budget cuts to its largest customer, the Department of Defense in the event of sequestration, because of the companies diversity within the defense market and their mix of being the primary contractor and a subcontractor on many contracts. They plan on continuing their focus on their core industries needs of the DoD. Northrop Grumman also believes that their business is well positioned within the US government, because of the diversity of programs they are working on like the F-35 Lightning II, RQ-4 Global Hawk, Minute Man III upgrades, next generation jammer, and other classified programs. These programs, with their importance to the US DoD will allow Northrop Grumman to remain viable during the fiscal crisis, and remain profitable. They also believe that a deal will be reached averting the crisis, and allowing business to continue. Northrop Grumman’s Weighted Average Cost of Capital Northrop Grumman has a weighted average cost of capital of 8%. This represents the low cost at which Northrop Grumman is able to procure financing. They currently have been buying back shares, which are increasing shareholder’s equity by making each share worth more; as well they have been utilizing debt effectively. They particularly have been using bonds to buy back stock as well as for financing capital programs. They use the weighted average cost of capital as a tool in determining discount rate and terminal value assumptions. The weighted cost of capital takes into consideration the relative weights of the components of their capital structure. This is used to measure the costs of new capital, and with a weighted average cost of capital at 8%, Northrop Grumman seems to balance in its approach to capital which is a sign of a mature and financial stable company. Profitability Northrop Grumman has been a profitable company over the course of its history. In 2002 their profits were $697.0 million and a Value Line estimate of $2,005 million for 2012, which are almost three times the profits of 2002. These recent profits can be attributed to the operations in the Middle East, particularly the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, which have increased profits in every major defense contractor. Northrop Grumman plans to remain profitable during the defense cuts from 2011-2021 by continuing their excellence in their product development, manufacture and support. Failure in any of these areas will have a negative effect on their profitability. They also need to ensure that their contracts are completed on time and on budget, to ensure that with some of the current contracts and political environment that either they do not get canceled, or that they do not have continue on with their own funds. Other things that could affect profitability would be a failed rocket launch or failure of a product that cannot be fixed causing a contract to be canceled. Northrop Grumman’s net profit margin has also increase since 2002. In 2002 their net profit margin was 4.1% and has increased gradually to an estimated 8.0% in 2012. However, Value Line estimates that their net profit margin will decrease to 7.3% in 2013 and fall to 6.8% till at least 2015. The gradual increase in profits is attributed to the wars in the Middle East, where there has been an increased demand on their products, but the estimated decrease will be a result of the winding down of operations in the Middle East and the fiscal crisis enveloping the US Government. Even though their profits and net profit margin is planning on decreasing in 2013 and beyond according to Value Line, Northrop Grumman will remain profitable and thereby allowing to focus on their strategy of performing well for their shareholders. This increase in profitability is in line with their strategy of performance particularly with their stock price, which investors take the firm’s profitability into account. This has resulted in an average return on capital of 9.2%. Their return on capital is estimated to continue this increase rate through 2017 at 11.5%. Northrop Grumman’s EBITA Margin for 2011 is 14.26% at $3,304,000 million which has been increasing since 2010 and should continue to steadily increase even with the future budget uncertainty in the US government. Dividend Policy Northrop Grumman is also a stable company because of its dividend policy. Northrop Grumman offers a quarterly dividend and has been paying a dividend since 1943 except for 1949-1950. The dividend payouts for 2012 were $0.50 for the first quarter and $0.55 for each subsequent quarter, totaling $2.15, with earnings per share of $7.40 estimated for 2012 resulting in a 29% dividend payout ratio. When compared to other companies in the defense industry, Northrop Grumman is on par with its main competitors in regards to a dividend payout ratio with Boeing having a 2011 dividend payout ratio of 31% and Lockheed Martin of 41% in 2011 (Tortoriello, 2012). In 2011, Northrop Grumman was able to allocate $2.8 billion to give back to shareholders by repurchasing stock and through dividends. These strong cash flows in 2011 were a result of the spinoff of their shipbuilding industry, and $26,412 million in sales. The company is continuing its share repurchasing in 2012 with $290 million allocated to repurchase 13.6 million shares, with $2.0 billion left in that program (NOC earnings release, 2012). This along with the $2.15 dividend in 2012 represent Northrop Grumman strength as a company and their resolve to focus on their shareholders, by buying back stock, making it worth more and continuing to raise their dividend. Prior to the 2000s Northrop Grumman conducted its dividend policy like a utility with dividends that did not change its payout year to year. This all changed when Ron Sugar became CEO of Northrop Grumman in 2003. He began a program the resulted in stock buyback programs and was able to double the dividend payout during his tenure. CEO Sugar was able to raise the sales per share, however this did not result in an increase in the share price, which a low of $33.80 (Forbes, 2011). Northrop Grumman through their current CEO Wes Bush has increased their emphasis shareholder returns. He was able to the do by increasing dividends by an average of $0.13 per year and an average dividend of $1.78, since 2007. The 2012 dividend will be $2.15 with the fourth quarter paid on Dec 31, 2012. Northrop Grumman’s dividend policy is to continuously provide a dividend to its shareholders and to continuously attempt to increase the dividend as well. Another part of Northrop Grumman’s dividend policy is the stock buyback program. Northrop Grumman has been doing this since 2010, since they have excess cash from the spinoff of Newport News and Huntington Ingalls Industries, Incorporated, the shipbuildin g portion of Northrop Grumman and recent bond issues to buy back stock, in lieu of issuing a higher dividend. Corporate Bond Policy and Debt Usage Northrop Grumman uses corporate bonds like many other companies, for acquisitions, capital expansion projects, and refinancing existing debt. They currently have nine bond issues out with interest payments ranging from 1.85-7.81% with maturity dates from 2014 to 2040. Its current credit rating from SP, Fitch and Moody’s is BBB+, BBB+, and Baa1. These rating mean that Northrop Grumman has a lower medium grade rating, however according to Moody’s their debt metrics are at the high end of their current class of debt. Their current long term debt on 31 December 2012 will be $3,935.0 million (Value Line, 2012). Since 2009 they have paid of $256.0 million towards their long term debt. In 2011, Northrop Grumman paid $2,692 million in interest payments, according to their 2011 Annual report. They are projecting paying $207.0 million in 2012, which is lower than 2011, but that number is likely to rise at least through 2017. In November of 2010, Northrop Grumman issued a tender offer to buy its bonds back for a total of $2.119 Billion of bonds from its subsidiaries. Concurrently, they have a public offering of senior unsecured debt securities for debt repayment, pension funds, acquisitions, share repurchases, and working capital. On 15 February 2011, Northrop Grumman had a bond issue of $750 million at maturity with an interest rate of 7.125%. Moody’s has not down or upgraded Northrop Grumman’s bond rating, due to a large order of RQ-4 Global Hawks to NATO, and because of a $4.0 billion share repurchase plan. That sale could have a positive effect on their bond rating. All in All, Northrop Grumman has had numerous bond issues, and is currently using its latest one for a multitude of purposes. Industry Comparison Northrop Grumman is one of the top five defense companies in the world with defense revenues in 2010 of $31,181 billion (Tortoriello, 2012). Northrop Grumman as the one of the leading defense contractors in the world and is on par with or exceeding its competitors. Comparing the profitability of Northrop Grumman to its peers in the defense industry, we can take a look at figure 1 and compare profitability ratios of Northrop Grumman with the averages in their industry group. The median return on assets (ROA) for the search and navigation equipment is 7.10%, Northrop Grumman currently has a ROA of 7.45% as of 31 Dec 2011, and their current ROA is 5.72% as of 30 September. Using 2011 numbers, Northrop Grumman is slightly more profitable than the other firms in its SIC industrial grouping. Northrop Grumman is also effective in how they finance their activities, by using a mix of bonds, stock options, and other forms of financing. As of 2011 their total debt to equity ratio is 0.38 when compared to the industry average is of 84.40 is significant because it shows little financing Northrop Grumman is using at this time, however, they are still have a decent bond rating of Baa1 from Moody’s and Value Line has their financial strength listed as A++. The industry average for the quick ratio is 2.00. Northrop Grumman’s 2011 quick ratio was 0.97. With a quick ratio below one, this shows that Northrop Grumman is highly effective at creating cash from its investments and work activities. In examining these ratios; it shows that Northrop Grumman is a highly successful and stable company that would present a low risk investment to an investor. However, it is to be seen what the possibilities of sequestration and cuts to the military have on these ratios and the profits and low debt that Northrop Grumman has during the 2000s. Stock Price Analysis Northrop Grumman is a publicly traded firm on the New York Stock Exchange, under the symbol NOC. As of 14 December, 2012 they currently have 254,000,000 shares of common stock outstanding. They currently have zero preferred stock and $3,935 million currently in bonds. According to Northrop Grumman’s last cash flow statement, they paid $543 million in dividends. As of 15 November 2012, the board of directors decided to issue a quarterly dividend of $0.55 per share payable 12 December 2012. Northrop Grumman since 2009 has paid an average dividend of $1.83. They also have repurchased $2,194 million in company stock, and they have been doing this for the past few years as another way to compensate their investors besides dividends. Northrop Grumman over the past thirty-six months has seen its stock rise and fall and continue on that path with an average volatility of 2.0. The low volatility of their stock is representative of a stable company, and stable stock prices, that would attract conservative investors, and give new investors faith that they will receive a decent return on their money. Northrop Grumman during this time has since its stock prices with a high of $71.87 and a low of $49.26. The few really large troughs in the wave that the stock price creates is August of 2011 and fall of 2009. These troughs represent the low times for Northrop Grumman’s stock, but during these times there stock has been steadily climbing specifically after Wes Bush took over as CEO and began to focus on improving the share price as well increase the performance of the company. These dual actions have led to an increase in their share price as well helping the company reduce debt, and increase capital to deal with the impending financial crisis that could possibly lead to another recession. As of 14 Dec 2012, Northrop Grumman is trading at $67.37 (yahoo finance, 2012); they have consistently been trading in the upper $60s since July of 2012, when the stock price was rising from a low of $57.29 in June of 2012. Northrop Grumman stock has been rising because of the good ratings they have received from numerous media outlets, such as Value Line and Yahoo Finance. The rise in stock prices and favorable rating can be attributed to the company renewed focus on its core industries and the spinoff of its ship building subsidiaries. Their performance has increased under the leadership of their current CEO Wes Bush. Their stock prices have also remained stable in recent months, because of the strong cash presence, which is adding investor friendly initiatives such as a raising the dividend and repurchasing stock, as well as lobbying for new contracts, like the $30 million post office contract and the NATO contract to buy RQ-4 Global Hawks. Lastly, Northrop Grumman is one of the more stable companies with an estimated EPS in 2012 of $7.40, down $0.01 from 2011, which is indicative of a stable company that is meeting or exceeding its performance estimates. Currency Risk Northrop Grumman is exposed to foreign currency risk; however they are not at a great risk to fluctuations in foreign currency. They are exposed to the risks of foreign currency from their international operations. They mitigate foreign currency risk by entering into foreign currency forward contracts as to manage portions of receipts from international customers and payments that may be have to made to international partners. As of 31 December 2011 Northrop Grumman had $233 million in foreign currency forward contracts outstanding (Northrop Grumman, 2011). With $26,412 million in sales in 2011, (Northrop Grumman, 2012), $233 million is not very significant, and they believe a 10% change in interest rates of foreign currency exchange rates would not have a significant effect on the financial position or effect their operations. Capital Markets Northrop Grumman will be affected by the volatility and disruption the domestic and international credit markets. Northrop Grumman access these markets from time to time when they need capital to support capital expansion projects, refinancing of existing debt, and for evolving lines of credit. With the current fiscal crisis in the US and Europe, will make it difficult for Northrop Grumman access credit on favorable terms or at all which will have an adverse effect on the fiscal standing. They are at risk, because of counterparty default because they deal with bankers and brokers in the credit market, when they have need for more capital. Their suppliers are also at risk with the volatility and disruptions in the credit markets from the fiscal crisis. If their ability to access credit on favorable terms, or at all could adversely affect Northrop Grumman by forcing them to change suppliers, which could lead to them to be unable to meet their contractual obligations. This could cause delays in programs or force them to find other means to assist their suppliers to support their contracts. Northrop Grumman has also entered into credit agreements amounting to an aggregate principle of $2 billion. This is a revolving door 364 day credit agreement that will help them cover costs over the short in the event of a decrease in cash. This revolving line of credit is based on many rates, including the LIBOR or an alternate rate. Northrop Grumman will be facing issues in the credit market, due to the fiscal crisis in the US, and the instability in the federal budget and the looming threat of sequestration, which will directly affect the credit markets. However, the slow growth rates of the US economy, and economy remaining on the brink of falling back into recession has kept interest rates low, which is an attempt to make credit easier to access. Conclusion Northrop Grumman is a leading defense contractor in the United States that has four main business areas, aerospace systems, electronic systems, information systems, and technical services. They are involved in many products that are used or are in development for the Department of Defense, from the RQ-4 to new electronic warfare systems. Northrop Grumman currently receives 90% of its revenues from the US government, primarily from military contracts. They are also a very stable company that has been increasing their dividends over the past few years, as well as having a steady stock price that has been increasing as well. Their currently a lower medium grade bond rating, rated at Baa+ from Moody’s. They have a strong history of supporting the US military with a multitude of historic aircraft and systems that support these aircraft. Northrop Grumman will continue to excel within the looming threat of sequestration and $1 trillion in budget cuts to the defense budget over the next ten years. All in all, Northrop Grumman is a leader in the defense industry and will continue to be a profitable company during the drawdowns in the Middle East and the defense budget cuts facing the US armed forces. References Defense System Staff (2012) NATO inks $1.7B deal for Block 40 Global Hawks, 1105 Media, Vienna, VA. Retrieved on November 10, 2012 from http://defensesystems.com/articles/2012/05/21/agg-nato-global-hawks-contract.aspx. Dobosz, John (2012) Half A Trillion In Pentagon Budget Cuts Turns Defense Stocks Into Dividend Darlings, Forbes, Inc. Retreived on November 12, 2012 from http://www.forbes.com/sites/johndobosz/2012/05/25/superior-firepower-pays-fat-dividends/ Harrington, Robert L. (2012) Value Line Northrop Grumman. Value Line Publishing. Retrieved on November 20, 2012 from http://www3.valueline.com.ezproxy.libproxy.db.erau.edu/secure/vlispdf/stk1700/index.aspx. Mergent (2012) Mergent Online General Company Information, 2012. Retrieved November 15, 2012 from www.mergentonline.com. McKinney, Brooks (2012) Northrop Grumman, U.S. Navy Conduct First Catapult Launch of X-47B Unmanned Aircraft, Globe Newswire. Retrieved on November 29, 2012 from http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=10014076. Movius, Steve (2012) Northrop Grumman Reports Third Quarter 2012 Financial Results. Falls Church, Va. Northrop Grumman (2012) 2011 Annual Report. Falls Church, Va. Thompson, Loren (2011) How Northrop Grumman Aims To Outperform, Forbes, Inc. Retrieved on November 29, 2012 from http://www.forbes.com/sites/beltway/2011/01/10/how-north rop-grumman-aims-to-outperform/. Thompson, Loren (2012) Northrop Grumman Finds A Formula That Will Work In Hard Times, Forbes, Inc. Retrieved on December 11, 2012 from http://www.forbes.com/sites/lorenthompson/2012/12/11/northrop-grumman-finds-a-formula-that-will-work-in-hard-times/?partner=yahootix. Tortoriello, Richard (2012) Industry Surveys, Aerospace and Defense. S and P Capital IQ Industrial Surveys, New York. Retrieved on November 25, 2012 from http://www.netadvantage.standardandpoors.com.ezproxy.libproxy.db.erau.edu/NASApp/NetAdvantage/index.do. (2012) Industry Browser Industrial Goods Aerospace/Defense Major Diversified Company List Yahoo Finance. Retrieved on December 8, 2012 from http://biz.yahoo.com/p/610conameu.html. (2012) Moodys Disclosures on Credit Ratings of Northrop Grumman Corporation , Services, New York. Retrieved on November 3, 2012 from http://www.moodys.com/research/Moodys-Disclosures-on-Credit-Ratings-of-Northrop-Grumman-CorporationPR_243144. (2011) Moo dys says Northrop Grummans $4 billion share repurchase authorization wont impact ratings, Moody’s Investor Services, New York. Retrieved on November 10, 2012 from http://www.moodys.com/research/Moodys-says-Northrop-Grummans-4-billion-share-repurchase-authorization-wontPR_218143. (2012) Northrop Grumman Corp. Ford Equity Research, Retrieved November 30, 2012 from www.fordequity.com. (2012) Northrop Grumman Corp. Mergent Corp. Retrieved on December 12, 2012 from www.mergent online.com. 2012 D B ratios, SIC 3812. Retrieved on December 5, 2012 from http://www.mergentkbr.com.ezproxy.libproxy.db.erau.edu/index.php/reports/industry (2010) Northrop Grumman Announces Cash Tender Offers for Debt Securities and Commences Debt Offering. Los Angeles. Retrieved on November 10, 2012 from http://investor.northropgrumman.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=112386p=irol-newsArticleID=1489734highlight=. (2012) Northrop Grumman, Yahoo Finance. Retreived on October 30, 2012 from http://finance.yahoo.com/q/bs?s=NOC+Balance+Sheetannual. (2012) Northrop Grumman Corporation, numerous Moody’s reports. Moody’s Investor Services. New York. Retrieved on November 1, 2012 from http://www.moodys.com/credit-ratings/Northrop-Grumman-Corporation-credit-rating-558850. (2010) Northrop Grumman Announces Cash Tender Offers for Debt Securities and Commences Debt Offering, PR News Wire, Los Angeles. Retrieved on November 27, 2012 from http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/northr op-grumman-announces-cash-tender-offers-for-debt-securities-and-commences-debt-offering-106442983.html. (2012) 3 Defense Companies To Buy Ahead Of A Fiscal Cliff Compromise. Retrieved on December 9, 2012 from http://seekingalpha.com/article/1053621-3-defense-companies-to-buy-ahead-of-a-fiscal-cliff-compromise?source=yahoo.

Employability Skills Within Health and Social Care Settings

Employability Skills Within Health and Social Care Settings Introduction. Employability. There are many career prospects in Health and Social care all across the United Kingdom. For someone to be employable in Health and social care setting, one has to be highly motivated, have skills they can transfer to the job, understanding and personal good qualities (Finley, Ivanitskaya, and Kennedy 2007). Employment is when someone is able to get a job, stay in the job and if an opportunity arises they will be in a position to develop their profession (Yorke,2004).To demonstrate that there are a lot of opportunities in Health and social care, this report is going to examine the variety of employment roles within the setting. It will also explain why it is important to have a well-structured organisation that is an organisation with hierarchy. In addition some of the hierarchy information will be described in diagrams and some will be noted down for example its responsibilities and roles .ref. Different types of professions within health and social care . According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs (1987), people have the same desires and  needs which need to be satisfied. The needs are physiological, safety, social, esteem and self-actualisation. Depending on an individual, if one of these needs are not met or all of them one becomes preoccupied and vulnerable. For people’s needs to be met, health and social care need to be different so that it can offer cost-effective care while maintain good high quality (Smith, 2000). The needs can be met by giving direct support to individuals or by working with people in the society. Healthcare is the managementofillness by treating and preventing it. This can be achieved by trained professionals for example alliedhealthprofessions. Whereas Social Care services aid everyone who is marginalised and vulnerable due to sickness, disability, old age and poverty. However, social care consider needs and ability of the person before they provide the services (NHS, 2014) .There are many serv ices in health and social care services. They include care networks, community care networks, health maintenance organizations and accountable health plans. That means there are many places where one can get employment in health and social care. For example hospitals, medical offices and community health centres. Another service in social and health care is public health; is involved in the promoting of well-beings for individuals and societies. Because all of these services in health and social care, for effective services to be achieved there is supposed to have a variety range of professions (Martin, etal, 2010). Healthcare professions can be identified into three groups, that is independent practitioners provides range of services without the approval of the third party .Dependant practitioners provides few services under the management of an independent practitioner. Support staffs, works under the management of independent practitioners and dependant practitioners (Coles and Porter, 2009).However having said that, some of the healthcare occupations may fall under one category depending on the place of employment and duties that are attached to that job. Allied healthcare professions encompass a range of careers in all aspects of care. Some of the allied healthcare occupations are found in medical, technology, respiratory therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and dietetics. They can work in either the community or with an individual depends on the place of work and responsibilities .This extends to the needs of the individual or the community. The nursing occupation is the biggest in healthcare .Nurses can work in different healthcare settings, depending on their roles and responsibility and the place they are working. Nurses have ethical responsibility to safeguard life and to relieve suffering. The moral principles that govern their behaviour are respect of autonomy, nonmaleficence and beneficence (Schwartz,etal,) Nurses have to apply standards and guidelines set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC,2014). Another occupation in healthcare is Dietitians.They are qualified professionals in diet. They help people to make informed choice by giving them advice on good lifestyle and food choices. To practice as a dietician one has to be registered by Health and Care Professional Council (HCPC). They also treat people with different medical problems associated with diet (BDA, 2014). Other occupations within social care area, are social workers and social care worker. Social care workers do not need qualification because their main roles is to give personal care and help the service users to manage their every day to day life However duties may vary depend on where one works. A person can work in different social care settings for instance in the community giving door to door support to the service users. They don’t have a legal board but each and every one is accountable and responsible for their actions to their employers (Brotherton and Parker, 2011).Furthermore Social workers work in different places in social care settings .They can work with different organisations like charities, independent organisations. In addition some can work for the NHS and mental health trust. They work closely with service users, their friends and families. They can also involve police, local department schools and probation services depending on the client they are dealing with. For one to be a social work qualifications are needed a degree or masters because the job involves working vulnerable people. They can work with either adults or children; this includes elderly, young offenders, people with different disabilities and homeless. Hence their role is to advocates, advice, counselling and listening. In addition the type of job they can carry depends on the area and case they are working on. They work closely with law so for one to practise in UK has to be registered withHealth and Care Professions Council(HHPC). Demonstrating research skills in researching careers. It is important to show good research skills in researching a career one wants to follow. It is important because this will make someone prepared and show their dedication towards the career progression. If one wants to be a nurse, they are supposed to be caring, and compassionate towards people. In addition commitment to helping people is also important. There are many jobs that are available in nursing and the major employer being National Health Service (NHS) .They includes clinical practice, management, education and consultation. Nursing is divided into four branches which are; mental health, adult, learning disability and children’s nursing. For someone to be a qualified nurse, one needs to have a degree in nursing. And to be a qualified nurse working for NHS one needs to be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NHS).In addition ,once one has qualified and obtained the important experiences ,they can go on and develop their skills so that they can become spe cialist in a particular field. They can become practice nurse .This can give them opportunities to work in different health and social care areas like community health centres and hospitals .If one is a nurse working for a NHS there are different Bands depending on experience and qualifications. All this information I started searching on the internet and then for in depth I searched on different NHS careers websites which are; http://www.nhscareers.nhs.uk/working-in-the-nhs/pay-and-benefits/agenda-for-change-payrates ,http://nursing.nhscareers.nhs.uk/. I also searched on www.ucas.com and the Royal of College of nursing website. http://www.rcn.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/78667/002775.pdf. Hierarchy within health and social care. Health and social care settings are very big, so effective and quality care to be given there must be order within the organisation. An organisation has to distribute the job to people who have skills arranging them from the bottom to the top (Fisk etal,2011). It is like a ladder, a person or group at the bottom will be managed by the ones above them. The people on the top levels have power, authority and ability to enforce rules to those on the bottom levels. This arrangement is called hierarchy (Galinsky and Magee,2011).In addition, since health and social care is very big, there are some job combinations that are unlikely to go well together. Some skills needed for a particular job may be different from one another, for an example the finance department and the nursing department. Furthermore in health and social care there are big organisations with big hierarchies and small organisations with small hierarchies. For an example NHS is a well-structured and a big hierarchical organ isation whereas a care nursing home is small hierarchical organisation. This means each and every worker in that particular organisation has a significant role that is connected to their qualifications and responsibilities. Below are diagrams of two different hierachies,big and small . The big organisations have got many structures and many management systems; this enables tasks to be carried out easy with competent people. The people on the lower levels often show support for hierarchies because whenever they are stuck on anything they ask the person above them, this reduces stress and responsibilities. The advantage of Hierarchy in a big organisation is that everyone knows their job description and who is above them. However this is different from a small organisation as there are few employees. In addition, small organisations everyone has to be a generalist. The other advantage of big hierarchical organisations is that they employ many employees and everyone would be accountable for their work, however nobody takes an overview because everybody will be doing their specific job. In a small hiercchial organisation if a problem arise it can be sorted quick because there are few workers and many of them do general whereas in a big hierarchical organisation informat ion passes through many people. Decisions take so long because they have to pass through many levels. In big organisations there are limited opportunities to develop skills because one will be stuck in one job description whereas in small organisation one can develop many skills because they do not have a specific job. There is also some limitations in small hierarchical system organisations, there is few chances of improvement within the organisation. The nursing staff can only advance if there is a promotion (Steege, 2014). There are limited positions available for that. There are only two advanced nursing positions in a nursing home. These nurses are MDS nurse and the Director of Nursing. Normally people working on these positions stay in the job for quite a long time so there would not be any vacancies. Furthermore in a small organisation workload can overburden the person in charge for example nurse in charge will be responsible for working on the floor, giving medications and answering any relative’s queries. Hierarchies motivates employees to perform well because of the opportunities for promotion, however in big organisations many levels increase the costs of the organisation. The Importance Hierarchy in terms of roles and responbilties. A hierarchy is very important in health and social care organisations because it provides order and structure (Markus and Kitiyana,2003).Hierarchy includes authority and following of rules. People who are employed in hierarchal organisations are accountable for getting assigned work done; hence there is authority and power involved. The role of hierarchy is to place people with necessary skills and competence at each level and making it easy to identify accountability at each level if any error happens(Rose,Wenzel,andMiltlying,2002). People who work in hierarchical organisations have assigned roles and responsibilities according to the contract they sign between them and the employer. According to employment Rights Act (1996), the contract should contain all employments terms. This helps to put boundaries in each level of the hierarchy because it states what a person can and cannot do. The hierarchy helps to create effective communication between employees and all levels of the hiera rchy. The hierarchy also ensures that employers and other professional guidelines are followed. CONCLUSION . There are many opportunities for one to be employed in health and social care settings. There are different ranges of occupations within the settings. Most of the occupations require training and one should be registered with the right board to be able to practise. Health and social care is big hence hierarchy is important to bring structure to the organisations. http://www.nhs.uk/CarersDirect/social-care/Pages/what-is-social-care.aspx nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/advice/planning/jobprofiles/Pages/dietitian.aspx. http://www.rcn.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/78667/002775.pdf D. Baird Schwartz, M.E. Posthauer, J. OSullivan Maillet Practice Paper of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Ethical and Legal Issues of Feeding and Hydrationhttp://www.eatright.org/HealthProfessionals/content.aspx?id=6889Accessed April 29, 2013 http://www.nmc-uk.org/ www.bda.uk.com http://www.bdacareerchoices.com/. George.n root 111,demandmedia. 1

Jade of Peony Essay -- Literary Analysis, Wayson Choy

We have all been in a situation where we have immigrated to a new country for different reasons regarding, better future, or education. In the book Jade of Peony, Wayson Choy describes a struggle of a Chinese immigrant family as they settle in Canada, through the perspective of three young children; Liang, Jung, and Sekky. Each child describes his or her struggle, while settling in a new country. The family struggles to keep their children tied to their Chinese customs and traditions as they fit in this new country. The Chinese culture needs to be more open minded as it limits the future generation’s potential. Chinese culture limitations are seen through the relationship expectations, education, gender roles and jobs. Similarly, the relationship expectations in Chinese customs and traditions were strongly held onto. The daughters of the Chinese family were considered as a shame for the family. The sons of the family were given more honour than the daughters. In addition, some daughters were even discriminated. The only daughter in the family, Liang had to hear her grandmothers taunt: â€Å"If you want a place in this world [...] do not be born as a girl child† (Choy 27). The girls from the Chinese family were considered useless. They were always looked down upon in the family; they felt as if the girls cannot provide a family with wealth, this attitude would really affect the parents from Chinese family preferred boys as they thought; boys could work and provide the family income. Due to Chinese culture preference to having boys, girls often did not have the right to live. In the Chinese ethnicity, the family always obeyed the elder’s decision. When the family was trying to adapt t o the new country and they were trying to learn th... ...ulture resists the new generations potential, due to the gender roles and jobs. In conclusion, Chinese cultures prohibition was seen, by examining the relationship expectations, education, and gender roles and jobs. The Chinese culture needs to be more cultivated as it constricts the newer generation’s capability in Canada. In Wayson Choy’s book The Jade of Peony, he describes the struggles of an immigrated Chinese family, as they tried to follow two cultures to adjust in a new country like Canada, but still held onto the old traditions of China, and the kids of the family struggled as they tried to follow these two cultures. We all know the struggles the Chinese immigrants had to face as they embraced a new life in a country like Canada. However, we remember and praise these immigrants for their determination as they, work hard to make a name in this country.

Kindergarten - Full Day or Half-Day? :: Teaching Education

Kindergarten - Full Day or Half-Day? On August 30, 2000, the Maryland State Board of Education made a request for mandatory full-day kindergarten to be added into their budget for the fiscal year of 2002. The Board’s goal is to have full-day kindergarten programs implemented in all state public schools by the 2004-2005 school year (Maryland State Board of Education [MSDE], 2000). Making this change from half-day kindergarten to full-day kindergarten, they hope full-day kindergarten will help children benefit academically in the long run. Despite these goals, it is unclear as to whether full-day kindergarten is actually beneficial to all children. The first day of kindergarten can be an awful experience. I vividly remember how terrible the first day of kindergarten was for me. I cried until I had no tears left, and I clung to my mom’s side for safety. After several attempts, my mom and Miss. Mariner, my kindergarten teacher, were able to coax me to enter the classroom. They provided me with several reasons as to why I would like kindergarten, but it was that final argument that school was only three hours long, which convinced me to â€Å"brave† it out. I didn’t have any disorders. I wanted to learn, and I was by no means antisocial. I was afraid of leaving my mom, and I was uncomfortable of changing my normal schedule. Fortunately, I loved kindergarten and after that first day there were no more tears. However, I was still preoccupied with the fact that three hours of my life were being taken from me. After the third week of school, I told my mom I had to quit all my other activities because school took up too much of my time. I laugh now at how precocious I was, but in the eyes of any five-year-old, three hours is a huge chunk of their time. I cannot even imagine what my behavior would have been like if kindergarten was a full day. After three hours of school, I was exhausted and a little irritable. This transition from no structure to six hours of structured school time may be too much for a young child to handle. This is why kindergarten should focus on acclimating a child to the school day by allowing them to wade into the â€Å"waters,† instead of throwing them into the â€Å"deep end.

Determining Databases and Data Communications Essay

In this paper the writer will seek to respond to the questions designated for both scenarios. This paper will list typical fields for each type of data. Provide an example of two relationships that you need to track. This paper will also answer the questions of: Do you need a database system? If not, can Excel ® handle the data and the output? What are the advantages and disadvantages? Would you use a personal database or an enterprise database? Explain your answer. Would a decision support system (DSS) be helpful? Explain your answer. When directing companies who work diligently with computer technology, it becomes increasingly imperative to have an adequate knowledge of the technology that is obtainable. This will allow those who have to manage information to make the most effective choice concerning what technology should be used for the company. In the two scenarios, making the best choices in technology allows the manager to best confer time and energy with superficially formi dable responsibilities. For instance, in the first scenario, an marketing assistant of a consumer electronics company is asked to not only maintain the booths for various trade shows from beginning to end, but is also asked to ensure that there any issues that arise during the delivery of the products are resolved. First, it is important to realize what information should be maintained in order to best ensure that the tools that are used during the trade shows. In cases like these, it would be important to have a list that details what displays, equipment and booths are needed for specific trade shows, as well as when the displays, equipment, and booths should be shipped to the area and back. For example, if a trade show located in Tulsa, OK only needed one booth with one display in order to accommodate the space, it would be the job of the marketing assistant to ensure that the various parts made it to Tulsa, as well as ensure that the booth and display made it back to the office f or future use; it would be necessary to know when it would be sent, as well as when it will be delivered back (which could be maintained with the knowledge of the delivering postal tracking number). In order to keep track of what is necessary for each trade show, there are several technological tools that would be instrumental in maintaining the information that will be transmitted. While one could use an Excel to begin the process of tracking the information that is needed, it would not be the best method of collecting that type of information, and it could be overwhelming over time. A database, on the other hand, could handle the information that is contained, and would allow the marketing assistant to create reports later on that can be used to analyze what changes could be made in the future whether it is making earlier shipments in order to ensure that it reaches an area on time, etc. (Middleton, 2009). Since there would only be one person keeping track of the information, it would not be necessary to create an enterprise database, which would have the capabilities of being made available to other departments within the company (Web Definition, 2012). This would allow one person to maintain the pertinent information that other departments may need without having too many people managing information, which could lead to confusion regarding where equipment is or what is needed for certain trade shows. Also, in order to maintain the large amount of information that would come from managing various trade shows, it would be necessary for the marketing assistant to have a decision support system, which is a â€Å"computer system that is designed to provide assistance in determining and evaluating alternative courses of action† by â€Å"acquiring data from the mass of transactions of a firm,† by â€Å"analyzing it with advanced statistical techniques to extract meaningful information,† and by â€Å"narrowing down the range of choices by applying rules based on decision theory (Web Definition, 2012).† This will allow the marketing assistant to gain better knowledge of what could be improved upon for future trade shows. In the second scenario, technology has to be used in order to manage a consulting team of seven, some of whom work in an office and others who work from home. In this case, ensuring that there is equ al accessibility to each employee is paramount to maintaining the business. A wide area network, or WAN, would help to accommodate the needs of employees who are working in the office as well as those who work from home. The WAN would create several LAN connections that would allow workers to the same access to important information regardless of where they are (John, 2009). Also, for projects that more than likely will be time-sensitive, employees within the consulting team will have access to the printers and other equipment’s that is a part of the network, so that tasks are completed in a timely manner (John, 2009). While there are certain security risks with using WAN that includes the potential infiltration from people other than employees and the possible placement of viruses that would threaten the maintenance of information that is stored, the use of anti-virus programs and other programs would help to protect the computers and information that they have, and the benefit far outweigh the potential risks. Also, a wireless access would better assist the team in completing tasks in different areas. Like WAN, wireless access would assist employees in gaining pertinent access to the information may normally be stored in in the office. For a consulting team who works in different areas, privacy and computer protection become a relevant problem that can be addressed with creating a virtual private network, or VPN. A VPN would ensure that the information that is held at the office for the team remains on a network that would only be accessible by the team, and it would prevent others who are not a part of the team from placing viruses on the computers or accessing the information, which could greatly hinder the completion of tasks and the accessibility of information. When considering what wireless networks should be used, cost as well as features must be considered. Excel documents often help to organize this information in order to assist leaders in making decisions regarding the best wireless network to purchase. For instance, if a wireless network is priced low but does not offe r the speeds or other features necessary to operate for a company, the network would not be good to expend money on. However, it could be equally dangerous to expend a lot of money on a wireless network that has a lot of features that may or may not be used. As a result, this requires that a company list the various features that would be necessary for the functioning of the company. The company can then review the list of features that are included for wireless networks that they are considering, listing the price of each network. This allows them to find the wireless network that best meets their company’s needs without paying a lot of money for it. In conclusion, having a working understanding of the technology that is available to a company can help managers make wise and efficient choices regarding what tools should be used. In the first scenario, using databases in comparison to excel documents allows the marketing assistant to properly track equipment that is used on a daily basis, as well as track where it is being shipped to. In the second scenario, using WAN or wireless networks allow a team to maintain access to pertinent information that could help employee’s complete tasks in a timely manner regardless of their location. In these ways, technology assists companies in maintaining their business. References: Decision Support System. (2012). â€Å"Decision support system.† Retrieved from: http://www.decisionsupportsystem.info/ Middleton H. (2009). â€Å"Maintaining a relational vs. flat file marketing database.† Retrieved from: http://www.dbmarketing.com/articles/Art223.htm Charlene N. (2010). â€Å"Benefits of developing & maintaining a database.† Retrieved from: http://www.reviveprojects.com.au/blogs//2010/10/06/benefits-of-developing—maintaining-a-customer-database- Web Definition. (2012). â€Å"Enterprise data.† Retrieved from: www.dataclaritycorp.com/cognos-glossary.html

Courage in To Kill a Mockingbird Essay

The book, To Kill a Mockingbird, is told from the point of view of a girl named Scout Finch. The story is set in a predominantly white neighborhood. Scout’s father is a lawyer, and the story begins when he is tasked to defend an African-American wrongly accused of raping a white woman (Lee 2002). The involvement of Atticus Finch in this case brings upon them verbal and physical abuse, such that Scout almost fought off her aggressors in school with her fists (Lee 2002). Her father, Atticus, tells her not to be provoked, to keep out of trouble, as they should not mind what other people are saying (Lee 2002).   This shows what Plutarch is saying regarding courage: â€Å"Courage consists not in hazarding fear, but being resolutely minded in a just cause.† For sure, Atticus is fearful for his strong-willed daughter and son; however, he is resolute on defending Tom Robinson. Atticus’ courage is not about skirting fear, but seeing only the justification for taking on Tom Robinson’s case. Like a horse with blinders, Atticus is focused on the case. This is why he does not want Scout or Scout’s brother Jem, to fight other people when they taunt the children regarding the case: other people do not matter. As long as Atticus knows that what he is doing is right, opinions of other people should not bother him. This is what he is trying to instill upon his children. He is also trying to teach them that courage does not only come from one’s fist or the barrel of the gun; courage is being deciding to follow through with a decision whatever it takes, regarding the insurmountable challenges. This for me is one of the aspects of courage. It is important to be resolute on a decision. As people say, obstacles occur when our mind is taken off the goal. It also takes courage to keep one’s eyes on the goal, to ignore the obstacles in our peripheral vision. No matter how insurmountable the challenge is, we still have to go for it, especially if we believe it to be right. Our world is shaped by people faced with impossibilities, yet they did not give up. These people caused the French Revolution, invented light bulbs, fought for women’s suffrage. We all live in a better world today because of them, and they did it because they had courage.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Courage I feel, is also found in everyday decisions. Obviously, it takes courage to sign the document that would start the Manhattan project, but courage is also involved when one befriends a stranger too. Scout does this in the book, befriending and trying to see what the world is like for Boo Radley (Lee 2002). Other people shun him, and make up horrible stories instead, but Scout has the courage of a child not yet corrupted by the world. In the end, she realizes that he is a good person. This is a courageous act, admitting your mistake, and accepting someone ostracized by society. Scout may not be aware of the implications of her action, but she flouted her neighborhood’s notion of propriety (just like her dad), and reinstating the fact that humans are above the standards we set for ourselves. This is courage too. And I believe that this is the hardest of all to do. To fight injustices in your everyday life is not only exhausting but harrowing, yet this is one area you will be able to do your most. Everyday decisions require staunchness of decision; these decisions are not â€Å"one-time big-time† deals. You will live with the effects of these decisions for every single day of the rest of your life, and the effects will be magnified.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Courage also must precede all other qualities. If one does not have the courage to do what is right, even if one has a sense of what is right and wrong, this knowledge will not be put to use, because fear will convolute one’s sense of right and wrong. Winston Churchill once said, â€Å"Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities because it is the quality which guarantees all others.† In the book, Atticus was courageous enough to follow through with his conviction that Tom Robinson is innocent (Lee 2002). He knows he will inevitably lose the case, as the jury is all-white (Lee 2002). Yet, he forges on. If he did not push through with his decision, or if he wavers, we would not have seen his other attributes: a responsible and loving father, an understanding neighbor, an upright man. If he had let himself be dwarfed by fear, we would not have seen the other qualities, as these have all been dwarfed by fear.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There is another aspect to courage I must point out: courage is not being able to not know fear while undertaking a difficult task. Courage knows this fear, even before one accepts the task, and yet goes on with it anyway. Courage, for me, knows fear, of being fully aware of the implications of your decision, and you continue because you will not forgive yourself if you did not do the right thing or if you continue so that those who come after you will not be placed in the same situation. This for me is the essence of courage: of making a decision, and acting upon it, so that other people will not have to make the same decision because you have made the world a better place to live in. Courage prefers to go out like a blaze in the night. It is, to quote Dylan Thomas, to go not gently into the night, and to rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Advertising Speech Outline

Angela Martin GP- To Advertise SP- To Advertise to my audience the benefits of using Febreze odor eliminating products CI- Febreze is a brand of household odor eliminator manufactured by Proctor & Gamble that is a highly-effective odor remover for cooking, animal, work and smoke odors. A home is truly the heart of the family, so having a home that’s happy, good-smelling, and comfortable and clean is important to life. Febreze Odor Eliminator can help you breathe a lot easier in your home. Febreze just doesn’t cover up odors; it penetrates deep into fabrics and the air to eliminate odors and leaves a light fresh scent.Using Febreze is just another way to make you breathe happy and keep your surroundings smelling fresh. For this reason, I’d like to share with you some of the benefits of using Febreze Odor Eliminating products. In the next few minutes, I will discuss: 1) What Febreze is and where it comes from; 2) The active ingredients that makes it work; and 3) Th e safety and the availability of Febreze products. I. In 1998, Procter and Gamble (P&G) introduced a new household product intended to enable consumers to remove odors from fabrics A.Febreze is classified as an air freshener by Proctor and Gamble 1. According to Chemical and Engineering News, Procter & Gamble introduced a cyclodextrin-containing fabric spray called Febreze. When sprayed on a fabric, some of the cyclodextrins in the product release a pleasant fragrance. 2. This product uses a compound called cyclodextrin, which has a cone-shape which allows it to trap volatile molecules that cause odors. B. All kinds of Febreze, scented or unscented, have the same active ingredient. It is beta-cyclodextrin, which is a carbohydrate. 1.Specifically, it is an eight-sugar ringed molecule that is made during the conversion of starch. 2. It is typically made from the starch found in corn 3. The cornfields of the Midwest make cleaning products, too! II. Febreze works well in the home or car . No matter where you find musty or smelly fabric, Febreze can eliminate the odors quickly without leaving a heavy residue of its own scent. A. Febreze is safe for nearly all fabric surfaces and odors fade away as Febreze dries. 1. Febreze works well without added side effects like overbearing smell or skin allergies.Angela Martin 2. The ASPCA considers Febreze safe in households with dogs and cats when used as directed. B. After the launch of Febreze, rumors spread on the Internet that it is dangerous to household pets, such as dogs. According to Snopes. com, these rumors are false. 1. The National Animal Poison Control Center have no evidence that Febreze, when used according to label instructions is harmful to pets 2. Veterinary toxicology experts working for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center consider Febreze fabric freshener products to be safe for use in homes with pets. 3. t’s approved by the ASPCA for use around cats and dogs since December, 1998 and does not cont ain Zinc Chloride. III. Whereas candles once dominated the category, home air fresheners have driven the growth over the past several years. A. Innovation–primarily in the air freshener segment–has propelled the growth of the overall market, says PF publisher Tatiana Mermen. â€Å"Consumers have fallen in love with technological gadget diffuser devices as well as the more passive reed diffusers,† 1. The recession has taught a lot of us what we can live without and what we can't.Air freshener, it appears, is in the second category. 2. Among sprays, IRI-reported mass sales for Febreze Air Effects, introduced in 2004, reached $70. 6 million last year, eclipsing Ousts mass sales of $45. 9 million, PF reports. B. Febreze comes in a variety of sizes and strengths Regular strength (500ml), Extra Strength (500ml) Extra Strength (1 liter). There is also a small handy size (100ml) 1. Febreze Odor Eliminating products are sold at your neighboring stores: a. CVS, Targets, W algreens, and Giant Eagle are some stores that sell Febreze b.Febreze products can also be purchased online. 2. The product initially sold poorly until P;G realized that people had become accustomed to the smells in their own homes, then switched to linking it to pleasant smells and cleaning habits to produce the successful product. a. To conclude Febreze was the first successful product in this new field of fabric cleaning, and it does work. b. Remember this is a superb convenience product that if used according to instructions works well, it is not a replacement to cleaning itself. Angela MartinIn the last few minutes, I have discussed; 1) What Febreze is and where it comes from; 2) The active ingredients that Febreze contains; and 3) The safety an availability of Febreze. The makers of Procter and Gamble suggest Febreze can safely and effectively be used on car seats, sofas, curtains, clothes, sports shoes, and pet bedding as examples. In today’s modern world and busy life styles there are a vast range of convenience products to make life easier and Febreze is just one such item. It claims to safely remove odors from various fabrics, upholstery and surroundings.One thing I will point out in my opinion that you should bear in mind; this is NO SUBSTITUTE or replacement for clean air but it sure smells like it with Febreze. BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. â€Å"Febreze review†. Ciao Shopping Intelligence. Retrieved September 14, 2001. 2. â€Å"Chemical Functional Definitions – Cyclodextrin†. Procter;Gamble. 2005. 3. Uncomplexed cyclodextrin solutions for odor control on inanimate surfaces. US Pat. No. 5,714,137. Filed 1994; assigned 1998. 4. . â€Å"Ask the Expert: Poison Control – Febreze†. ASPCA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-0219.

Curriculum Development Class Reflection Paper

Two separate classmates asked me education questions two nights ago, Wednesday, 17 and based on what I have learned in our class, I could answer them. Until then, I did not realize what an impact this class had on my educational training. At the end of the summer, I will graduate with a Master’s in Business Education, and be a student teacher in the fall. In my business education courses, I have learned about professional organizations, endorsements, textbook adoption, and a few smaller topics. One class did focus a lot on the syllabus, unit plan, lesson plan, setting measurable objectives, and following the core standards.When I started thinking on what my â€Å"take away† is from this course, I realized that it is about 90% of the course. The other 10%, I actually knew. Since you probably do not want me to write a book, I am going to pick out the topics that grabbed my attention the most. Prior to beginning this course, I knew changes had occurred in how knowledge was delivered to students in the classroom. What I did not realize was how much was involved in the development of curriculum and the extent to which it has changed in such a short time.It has always been my perception that teachers knew the subjects they taught and that their knowledge was transferred to the students. I had not given much thought to the many other factors that a teacher is responsible for. I now understand that there are many elements involved in planning and implementing a curriculum for each class taught. I am amazed at the magnitude of information that needs to be considered; such as, desk arrangements, wall space use, planned activities, time considerations, classroom management, rules, procedures, record keeping, available resources, technology, plus many more.Many of these items can probably be easily mastered after performed a time or two, but as a future teacher, I have to ask, â€Å"What have I gotten myself into? † When I was in school, all I remember was that my teachers had a green lesson plan book and that was it. In a couple of my business classes I have written my philosophy on education and then one on teaching. What I did not know, was there are â€Å"determinants of an educational philosophy. † I had never heard of perennialism, idealism, realism, experimentalism, or existentialism.On one end of the spectrum there is perennialism and on the other end there is existentialism. Experimentalism with a little of existentialism mixed in, loosely reminds me of some of the year-round school schedules talked about in chapter 8; where the students decide the type of instruction and when they will attend school. I based my philosophy on my personal values and what I believed teaching to be, which includes a little of some of the â€Å"known† philosophies. Last semester, one of my professors passed out this colorful triangle and called it Bloom’s Taxonomy.Possibly he expected everyone to know what is was, so he did not discuss it. After reading chapter three and hearing the presentation, I am amazed that time was not spent going over the levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy in my business education methods class. I have been setting goals and objectives for most of my life. I did not expect the way I executed them when I taught would be any different. The state standards outline my objectives, and I determine how the material will be delivered, which was the approach I intended to take.Of course I knew that knowledge would be passed from me to the students and then they would be tested over the material; however, that only represents the beginning and end of the Bloom’s Taxonomy process; there is a big gap in the middle. When I stop and think about the process of the educational objectives of the cognitive domain, it makes perfect sense to follow the â€Å"steps† up the ladder. As a teacher, if I miss a step, let’s say for the sake of time or convenience, I have reduced m y effectiveness as a teacher; therefore, I have lowered my standards.In another class, much time was spent on the discussion state standards. Since I will be a business teacher, I will be qualified to teach many classes; therefore, I will have to become familiar with multiple sets of standards. I looked back through chapter four and learned how the standards first came to be, and considered how they have evolved to create a foundation for the standards we use today. It is intimidating to see how comprehensive the standards are.The first presentation on the article during the last night of class introduced three areas of curriculum that are not discussed at length in the book: subject-centered curriculum, learner-centered curriculum, broad-fields curriculum, and core-curriculum. It was interesting how they are separated in the terms used, but how integrated they should be. It is clear that students, at least in Tennessee, are taught from the common core. It seems that the teaching is a by-product of what everyone else wants, beginning at the national level all the way down to an individual school.I know in the chapter that I presented, Chapter 8, the author brought up the conventional way teaching has, for the most part, been done; teaching for the convenience of the teacher which did not facilitate the learning of the student. It is evident that change is occurring rapidly. There is only a brief mention of teaching to various learning styles. Oddly, I recently discovered I am a visual learner. For the life of me, I could never figure out why I had to have complete silence when reading.This revelation occurred in another education class and was reinforced when I read the paragraph on learning styles in our text book. The actual implementation of teaching must revolve around a flexible classroom. Not all students learn at the same pace and as a teacher I have to realize that and teach on multiple levels. Differentiated learning is at the heart of teaching. Every thing I have mentioned thus far, barely scratches the surface of the changes in my perception of teaching, the collection of new knowledge, and revelations I have had pertaining to class preparation.I know I can handle students in a classroom, but I am scared of everything else that defines a teacher. I just hope I have learned enough to effectively prepare kids to enter the real world. My courses are part of a career pathway, you might say, I am the last line of defense. It is overwhelming to think of my future and the enormous responsibilities I am entrusted with. In the questions you posed for consideration, one related to the Praxis test. To student teach, I have to take the PLT 7-12 test.I have reviewed the study outline, which are about six pages. Of course there will be material on the test about curriculum, but what scares me is everything on the outline that I have never heard of. I seems like it will be impossible to prepare for, any help you have to offer would be greatly appreciated. I took my first content knowledge Praxis test last Saturday for marketing. I had to smile when the first question on the test asked about Bloom’s Taxonomy. It is the little things that connect everything in life.