Monday, September 30, 2019

A View Inside The Westboro Baptist Church Essay

Unlike most modern religious groups, the Westboro Baptist Church is unique in the fact that the organization doesn’t meet in a modern church setting. Instead, the Westboro Baptist Church meets on Sundays to picket and protest the funerals of people whom they feel have created blasphemous acts against God. This recently included the funeral of Apple’s co-founder Steve Jobs. In an October 7th cbsnews. com article journalist Edecio Martinez quoted Margie Phelps as posting on twitter, â€Å"He had huge platform†¦gave God no glory and taught sin. This in return yielded a great a greatly deal of responses by media, family, and some other government officials as well. This is the story behind the Westboro Baptist Church and its opposing counterparts. It is first important to understand the dynamics of the Westboro Baptist Church. Known for its fight against the alternative lifestyles of the homosexual community, the members of the Westboro Baptist Church have often times been referred to as the serial protesters and also have been characterized as a hate group. This church is an independent church founded by Fred Phelps in 1955. The group contains 71 members most of which are of Phelps family. Their congregations include picketing and the desecration of the American flag. Theologically speaking they refer to themselves as Calvinist. The church’s view is that most religious groups are Satan worshipers, frauds, and teach lies. They believe that â€Å"God Hates fags† and that it should be a crime. The two most notable groups that Westboro Baptist Church has chosen to picket are homosexuals and celebrities. This organization is without a question unique in its own rights. Since the Westboro Baptist Church popped up on the scene in Nov. 27, 1955, the public has had something to say about them. In efforts to expires the disapproval of the Westboro Baptist Church other groups have met in areas where the church was picketing and turned away from churches protesters. Perhaps one of the most famous counter protests happened after the September 11 attacks. One young man Jared Dailey , stood across from the group and held a sign that displayed, â€Å"NOT today Fred. † Two days later the number shifted from 1 to 86 people standing across from the group. In future protest against the group the slogan that began Dailey used has been popular in use. As a means to counter the Westboro Baptist church organizations such as, The Boston Center for the Arts and an ad-hoc group in Richmond countered the protest by doing pledges and then donating the money to LGBT (Lesbian, Bisexual, and Trans-gender) organizational projects. Others have arranged protest and hackers have been known to hack the Westboro batiste Church websites and disable them from the internet. There have been violent actions also against the group. There have been recorded incidents of angry mob attempting to attack the group, a fire near their meeting lace estimated at $10,000 in damage, and also Army Veteran Ryan Newell was arrested with ammo and an attempt on an attack of the group. For the most part the general public objects to the Westboro Baptist Church and their beliefs. Arguments on both sides of the debacle have both taking time out to use the First Amendment in their defense. The Westboro Baptist Church found themselves in hot water when the father of the Marine Lance Corporal Matthew A. Snyder sued them for defamation of character, invasion of privacy, and intentional infliction of emotional distress on June 5,2006. Although the court threw out the defamation and privacy suits due to the First Amendment the trial still went on for other charges. The family argued that even though the first amendment gives an American citizen the right to free speech it still is limited. On the judges mark the first amendment was recited and let it be known that if vulgar, offensive, or shocking statements were made, then that would be grounds of a guilty plea. The Plea was guilty on behalf of Fred and the other members of the Phelps family. The Westboro Baptist Church also took action as well, on July 21,2006; the ACLU (The American Civil Liberties Union) of eastern Missouri filed a suit for Shirley L. Phelps-Roper. This suit stated that the Missouri law saying that no one was allowed to picket in front of a church or a funeral an hour before or an hour after was preventing her from utilizing her right to religious liberty and free speech. Although the argument was relevant the courts still shot down the suit stating that â€Å"in individual states and cities the law is interpreted as they see fit because the amendment is vague as to the terms and conditions. The Phelps family continued on still to federal court in hopes of a win. On both sides of the argument each have had valid point that the first amendment protects both sides. As the situation continued, it called for the Supreme Court to step in. The Supreme Court stated that even though they do not agree with the Westboro’s acts they still have to aside with them due to the First Amendment of freedom of speech. The Supreme Court quoted â€Å"that freedom of speech is so central to the nation that it protects cruel and unpopular protests – even, in this case, at the moment of a family’s most profound grief. The Westboro Baptist Church is an organization of people with their own beliefs and opinions. Their religion no matter how extreme it may be is still what they believe to be a religion. Time has shown the world many interpretations of God worshipers, and many interpretations of religion, and the Bible. This is not the first group to have these views and probably won’t be the last. The world is a big place with many different people and it is important to look past the ignorance and see the importance of accepting everyone for who they are like it or not.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Chick Webb

In a genre as widely popular and influential as jazz, even some of the most well-respected musicians could fall through the cracks in terms of being a mainstream legend. This is not a revelation of a statement on its own, as this was the story for many a musician. The cause could be simply be a casualty of overshadowing during the jazz/swing craze, not being terribly innovative, or not having a string of hits. Some of these causes even afflicted the subject of this paper. However, it was another factor that makes his story so interesting, yet tragic.Not every artist could be etched in legend such as figures like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, or have his music played all over like Benny Goodman. But Chick Webb’s impact on both the music, culture and technique regarding the drums were and still are well-respected in the jazz scene, despite some of the factors that would hold him back from being a transcendent star. The story of Chick Webb has to begin with the factor that held him back the most and is also the first to afflict him. Despite his disputed birth date, Chick was born in Baltimore, Maryland to William H. and Marie Johnson Webb.William Henry Webb, his birth name, was born with spinal tuberculosis, a condition that would negatively affect him his whole life and ultimately cost him his life. So how does one manage all this pain, let alone become the greatest jazz drummer in history? For starters, the idea of playing the drums came from his doctor. The intent was that the rapid movement of the limbs that is required by the drums would â€Å"loosen up† his stiff limbs and lessen the pain. With the appeal of the instruments’ recreational and medicinal apparent, a young Webb would become a newspaper boy with the sole goal of saving up enough money to buy a drum set.Until then, Webb would settle for the bottom of overturned garbage cans to whet his appetite. By 11 years old, Webb would have his drum set and by 17 years old, he had mo ved to New York City to pursue his dream of being a player in the jazz capital of the world. Chick Webb began playing in New York night clubs as soon as he arrived in 1924. Clubs such as the Paddock Club and the Black Bottom took him in, reference by none other than Duke Ellington, who instantly recognized his talent. Ellington would become an important figure in Webb’s life, both as a mentor and a rival, further down the line.Noting his dominant skill and strong personality, Ellington would encourage Webb to form and lead his own small band. Webb would do just that by forming the Harlem Stoppers, a quintet that would go on to supply the demand for swing music in the era known as the Harlem Renaissance. His skills were rare, and considered ideal to fuel the upbeat pace of swing music and provide a drive to the music that could rarely be matched. Naturally, this skill became quickly recognized all over the city, leading to the expansion of the Harlem Stoppers, who would now be known as the Chick Webb Orchestra.Webb’s status as a successful musician was cemented when his band was selected as the house band of the Savoy Ballroom, a legendary venue located in Harlem. He would be the face of the venue until his final years. Based solely off their own merits, the Chick Webb Orchestra was a highly regarded band. But what made the band legendary in its own right was their willingness to accept challengers in what was known as â€Å"cuttin’ sessions†, or battles of the bands. Many good, but ordinary jazz bands attempted to challenge the great Chick Webb Orchestra, only to be blown out of the ballroom.However, when then-â€Å"King of Swing† Benny Goodman and his band arrived to challenge Webb’s, Chick began to finally get some acclaim from outside of New York. In New York, over 9,000 people came to see this historical event, 5,000 of them standing outside just to have the chance of possibly hearing the monumental clash that was to take place. And when the opportunity arose for Webb and his band to make a statement, they did so in force. Performing first, Goodman’s orchestra performed honorably as many expected from a unit of their stature.But when Webb’s crew began, the outcome would become obvious. With the roar of the crowd Webb’s orchestra, they would end up blowing Benny Goodman’s band out of the ballroom just as he did all the other bands before him that challenged him. His driving sounds often over-powered other bands, playing into the hard swing of his orchestra. Gene Krupa, a legendary drummer in his own right and drummer for Goodman’s band noted that â€Å"Webb cut me to ribbons! † It was this moment where Webb was crowned â€Å"King of Swing† and undoubtedly â€Å"King of the Savoy†.Other legendary challengers such as Count Basie (who played Webb to a draw at the very least), Fletcher Henderson and Duke Ellington would test the mettle of the Chick Webb Orchestra, but none would diminish his status as one of the preeminent bandleaders and musicians of the time. Like most famous muscians of the time, Webb began to record his work, beginning in 1927. However, his powerful sound was difficult to record cleanly without drowning out the full composition of the work. This forced im to tone down his sound and let the rest of the music even out, possibly lessening his fame. However, in circles within the music industry, Webb’s talent and influence did not go unnoticed. When Decca Records formed in 1934, Webb signed to the label and made his most famous recordings, almost all of which featuring Ella Fitzgerald as the singer. Webb initially discouraged the inclusion of Fitzgerald as she did not fit the image of the typical lead vocalist for a swing band. However, once he heard her voice, she would become the lead vocalist for Chick Webb’s Orchestra.This addition skyrocketed the careers of both artist, transforming F itzgerald into a bonafide superstar following the success of their top hit together, Fitzgeralds rendition of â€Å"A-tisket, A-Tasket†. As the quintessential swing artist, Webb’s sound merged perfectly with Fitzgerald, so much so that she became known as the â€Å"First Lady of Swing†. Unfortunately, one could say the vast popularity of Fitzgerald would often overshadow Webb, especially true on recordings. What made it worse for Chick Webb, was the timing of his newfound popularity. In 1938, not too long after the instant success of â€Å"A-tisket, A-tasket†, Webb’s health began to fail.Webb had been playing through pain his entire career, often leaving the stage exhausted. But this time, his spinal condition became more serious and restricted him from playing to a standard that he deemed fit for his fans. Seeking relief, Webb would return to Baltimore for a major operation at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Sadly, Webb would never leave the hospital, dyi ng at just 34 years old. Reportedly, his last words were to his mother, saying â€Å"I’m sorry, I’ve got to go. † The respect the jazz scene had for Chick Webb was obvious at his funeral, where the top musicians of the time all came to pay their respects.The general public also came in full force, so much so that the church where the services were being held could not contain them all, and the procession was composed of almost 80 cars. As one of the few prominent drummer-led swing bands, Webb’s impact is almost always understated. Be it because his lack of hit records as the frontman, a result of Ella Fitzgerald’s popularity or the era’s inability to properly record his talent, or his shortened lifespan, Chick Webb has become a somewhat forgotten name to the mainstream, despite his legendary status within the jazz culture.But due to his influential style, and his battles against some of the more marquee names in jazz/swing, Chick Webb will n ever be forgotten. Works Cited Fritts, Ron, and Ken Vail. Ella Fitzgerald: The Chick Webb Years & beyond. Lanham, MD: Scarecrow, 2003. Print. McDonough, John. â€Å"CHICK WEBB: THE MATRIX. † Down Beat 77. 8 (2010): 37. Downbeat. com. Down Beat, Aug. 2010. Web. 26 Oct. 2012. . Sandler, Gilbert. â€Å"Webb Won the Battle of the Bands. † Baltimore Sun.N. p. , 28 Apr. 1992. Web. 26 Oct. 2012. . Teichroew, Jacob. â€Å"Artist Profile: Swing Drummer and Bandleader Chick Webb. † About. com Jazz. N. p. , n. d. Web. 26 Oct. 2012. . Turner, Nathaniel. â€Å"Chick Webb Bio. † Chick Webb Bio. N. p. , n. d. Web. 26 Oct. 2012. .

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Summarize a reading related to issues of human diversity in working Assignment

Summarize a reading related to issues of human diversity in working with individuals of minority status - Assignment Example Hence, the topic is very vast, and gives extensive information regarding the importance of human diversity in organizations. As is obvious from the title of the research article, it is important to understand where we stand now in terms of human diversity, and what we are doing to promote diversity and reduce all sorts of discrimination against minorities at the workplaces. The authors have stated that previous researches focused on only one or the other type of discrimination; while, this research puts forward a more diverse model of human diversity, giving the reader a more exact idea on how we can promote the idea of human diversity in organization. The research also goes in detail of the outcomes of human diversity. Thus, the reader gets to know the importance of the topic in terms of pros and cons. Although there are no definite research questions or hypothesis that is to be tested, still we can say that the research focuses on queries, such as, what past literature is available, explaining different dimensions of diversity in organizations; and, does past literature tells the reader about the limitations and strengths of each dimension. Hence, the focus is on reviewing past literature, and providing suggestions to improve the research. 2.1. Race and ethnic diversity. The authors start with race and ethnic diversity. They state how humans judge each other on the basis of race and ethnic backgrounds. They have also cited much literature, all of which agrees that racial and ethnic discrimination against minorities results in negative effects on social integration and communication, thus, increasing organizational conflict. 2.2. Gender diversity. It is another dimension of human diversity. The authors state that gender diversity is important, but at the same time, it is important for the organizations to eliminate gender discrimination. Women are more at risk of gender discrimination at

Friday, September 27, 2019

Position entirely your own about what 'college level writing' should Essay

Position entirely your own about what 'college level writing' should look like or what criteria students should have to be succe - Essay Example College level writing would be identified from its structure. Ideally, the student should give the plan of the writing in the first paragraph, and then followed by supporting paragraphs to be summarized in the final paragraph. The thesis statement should appear in the introductory paragraph, giving an indication of what the writing entails. In supporting the main idea in the writing, the writer should borrow from other sources. No writer holds all the information needed and should therefore consult other credible sources. Lunsford (n.d.) supports this argument noting that an integration of a great deal of other sources into a piece of writing shows the analytical aspect of a writer and the ability of such a writer to think at a higher level. Individual paragraphs adopt a similar structure, having introductory, explaining and concluding sentences. However, scientists and art students could argue against this structure, giving examples of writings of project reports and poems. They wou ld argue that writing could adopt any structure as long as it communicates the intended information effectively. Even with this approach, the basic structure would still have to apply where the writer begins with an introduction, indicating the objectives of the writing, then follows with a supporting body before giving a conclusion. To come up with a coherent piece of writing, editing plays a major role. As Lunsford (n.d.) noted, editing eliminates spelling, grammar and punctuation mistakes. This makes the writing understandable to the reader. Content in college level writing is highly regarded. As noted, college students have grown in writing and should therefore be able to impart knowledge through their writing. Having gone through primary education and then to high school, such students should have been exposed to a lot of writing tasks. From the mistakes made and the aspects that rewarded more, the students should have learnt the requirements for an effective writing. At the co llege level, the writers would be expected to think in addition to writing. Knowledge would only be communicated if the writer succeeds in analyzing and evaluating various texts from which information has been borrowed. As such, I support the argument by Lunsford that a writer at this level should be able to â€Å"bring other voices into the conversation† in a way that makes the writing informative (n.d., 184). However, I appreciate those who would argue against the need to borrow from external sources so as to give perfect wiring, such as those in creative and artistic writing. Despite this argument, it would be important to note that such writings have borrowed from external sources whether knowingly or unknowingly. The ability to evaluate these sources, extrapolate and integrate them in the writing produces effective college level writers. College writing should be motivated by the need to fulfill the objectives of the given instructions. Thos of the school of thought of L unsford indicate that writing should be driven by what one believes in. In fact, while analyzing the writing by â€Å"

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Why managers may face difficulties when managing employees in a Essay

Why managers may face difficulties when managing employees in a cross-cultural context - Essay Example factory manager who moved to Mexico in order to raise the productivity of his firm factory in the State of Mexico. He apparently was not able to understand main cultural points and his management was a complete failure which led to a 500.000 $ loss for his company. The culture in which each of us lives influences and shapes our feelings, attitudes, and responses to our experiences and interactions with others. Because of our culture, each of us has knowledge, beliefs, values, views, and behaviors that we share with others who have the same cultural heritage. These past experiences, handed down from generation to generation, influence our values of what is attractive and what is ugly, what is acceptable behavior and what is not, and what is right and what is wrong. Our culture also teaches us how to interpret the world. From our culture we learn such things as how close to stand to strangers, when to speak and when to be silent, how to greet friends and strangers, and how to display anger appropriately. Because each culture has a unique way of approaching these situations, we find great diversity in cultural behaviors throughout the world. According to this definition, culture is made of all that defines our background and this is exactly why, as it is stated, we find great diversity in cultural behaviors throughout the world and this is the exact reason why managers may face cross-cultural p... As they have different cultural i.e. different knowledge, beliefs, values, views and behaviors, they will not have the same approach regarding a work, a problem, a situation. According to DuPraw and Axner3 (1997) there are six fundamental patterns of Cultural Difference: Communication Styles, Attitude towards conflict, Approaches to completing tasks, Attitudes towards disclosure, Approaches to knowing. From a culture to another, even if they share the same language, the meaning of words change and doesn't convey the same ideas and the importance of non-verbal communication is not the same. Conflict, depending on the culture, can be seen as a bad or good thing. Western countries often consider conflicts as being undesirable and often do all that is possible to tackle the issues immediately, whereas some other cultures don't have the same considerations on conflicts and believe that it is profitable for both parts. Another aspect of the conflict is the way to tackle it. Some cultures are accustomed to settle a conflict by a written exchange, contrary to the western face-to-face confrontation which can be embarrassing for them. How to complete task also differs from a culture to another because they will consider the same approach to complete it and also the way to work in teams are not the same. The process to make a decision in the working process is also submitted to variation depe nding on the cultural background. In some countries there is only one decision maker for the entire working process whereas in others the there must be a common agreement on what to do. Expressing feelings can also be an issue because it may be considered rude in some

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Part 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Part 3 - Essay Example The swimming exercise lengthens the lower and upper body. The stretching that one does using their arms and legs pushes the swimmer through the water. The safety in the water is high since there is no impact involved. This security reduces the risk of getting injured in the course of swimming, making it a safe and efficient exercise for joint flexibility. It is a necessary activity when one requires stretching shoulder and elbow joints in the arm and muscles and joints of the legs. The third exercise for improving flexibility in the joints of the body is stationary rowing. This exercise involves making movements with the upper body as if one is rowing a boat. This exercise is a cardiovascular one and extends and contracts all the muscles and joints of the lower and upper body. This training is necessary for improving the knee, shoulder and elbow joints. The fourth exercise is Pilates. It engages the abdominal muscles and improves the mobility of joints. The shallow and profound breaths that take place during Pilates promote flexibility and relaxation. This exercise is necessary for improving the range of motion in one’s joints (Watkins, 1988). Watkins, R., & Buhler, B. (1988). The water workout recovery program: Safe and painless exercises for treating back pain, muscle tears, tendinitis, sports injuries, and more. Chicago: Contemporary

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

College students need tax deductions - response to questionnaire Essay

College students need tax deductions - response to questionnaire - Essay Example Further, 7 (about 44%) of them stated that they do not work, i.e. they do not hold any sort of job, whereas 2 (about 12%) of them worked around 10 to 15 hours per week; 3 of them (about 19%) claimed that they worked 15 to 20 hours per week and the rest of them (about 25%) stated that they worked more than 20 hours per week. The findings show that a majority of the students does little to no work in the way of employment. When asked how many hours would suffice for them to afford college, about 19% said that they did not need work to afford college, and a similar percentage said that they had never thought about this question. Another 19% said that 20 hours per week would suffice, whereas 6% said that 15 hours and about 37% said that more than 20 hours per week would be sufficient. Around 44% of them stated that they had never thought about the tax rates for single college students, and an identical percentage stated that it is too high, only 2 (12%) thought that the current tax rate is reasonable. However, 100% of them would support a decrease in the current tax rate. Out of these, around 19%, about 12% and 50% wanted the tax rate to be reduced to 20 percent, 18 percent and 15 percent respectively, with about 6 percent stating that they did not want it changed. About 62% said that they found it hard to cope with their studies due to their work responsibilities whereas the other 48 or so percent did not have any such problems. When asked what problems they have had to face due to juggling work and studies together, the responses were quite varied: some of them simply stated that they do not work, whereas those who worked stated that their grades suffered, they were sleep deprived, had little to no social life, had professors who gave them extra work on weekends when they had to work most of the weekend, had a lack of concentration at both work and college as well as an unbalanced diet. In short there are

Monday, September 23, 2019

Technology Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Technology - Research Paper Example There are various benefits that have been offered by different technological advancements, but these advancements have been severally criticized by the opponents of the debate of technology being beneficial or harmful to the society and its members. The opponents as well as the proponents of the debate use various researches in order to support their claims. The benefits of technological advancements have been well documented but at the same time the negative effects of technological advancements have even been well researched and these negative effects have been as severe as being the cause of death amongst the members of the society. As new technological advancements enter the society the concern of how negatively these advancements are impacting human beings has increased within stakeholders and policy makers. Technological advancements may have several benefits to offer but it is severally damaging the educational, social, physical and psychological life of human beings. The use of technological devices has increased quite steadily and these advancements are being used by people of all ages including teenagers, young adults, older adults as well as seniors. Steinberg in his article has cited various studies that have been conducted in order to provide insight regarding the benefits of video game technology and in these researches the populations that were survey and observed included children ageing 4 to 6 years old, children who were in the middle years of the school life, individuals who were working as adults and various others (Steinberg 1). Similarly, Winteman focuses on the use of technology of internet amongst the population of teenagers while discussing the impact of technology on members of society (Winteman 1). Technological advancements have severally damaged the psychological wellbeing of its users. The proponents of technology argue that technological developments have impacted the psychological development of the members of the

Sunday, September 22, 2019

American Wartime Music Composers - Cohan & Berlin Term Paper

American Wartime Music Composers - Cohan & Berlin - Term Paper Example The 20th century was such a juxtaposition of styles, forms, and genres of music that it was difficult to chose two "composers" who had something in common. Perception is one of the most important tools of propaganda. For the first time aural perception was combined with the visual. Audiences became more demanding as the subjective choice of music was more diverse and more complicated . The radio was a significant factor in the mass distribution of different types of music. By World War II, composers of all genre were put in the forefront for the first time in history . Contrary to social believe, composers were highly touched by the effects of the number of deaths of the World War I and the number of deaths by the flue pandemic which closed theaters for almost 3 years. The two World Wars created different levels of propaganda and thus music was used differently. By World War II, audiences expected to be entertained by going to dance halls, jazz bands, musicals, music revues†¦. A s radio was a major form of entertainment in the majority of American households, music stations flourished. By World War II, it was common to go to cinema once a week. The United States War Office had a "Wartime Music Committee". (Sheppard 304) Audiences at home were under the influence that all was going well in both wars and soldiers were played music when they were in the mess hall; saw movies and were fed propaganda that the Americans were winning battles. Music was an important part of the war effort Each soldier was given a book of military songs. Over 9 000 songs were composed from the start of World War 1. Composers and producers were drafted or volunteered to entertain the troops. At the turn of the century, Musical theatre was a juxtaposition of a group of songs with a slight story line. George Cohan (b. 1878 d.1942) was raised in a family of vaudeville performers. (Kenrick) In the early 1900's the US was in a state of economic stability and patriotism. American Musical t heater was in its infancy. Vaudeville performances were still common. A group of diverse traveling performers would perform on stage with no continuity in the program. He is quoted as saying his family was making $1 000.00 a week in the late 1800's. (Kenrick)When he came to New York, he began writing and composing his own songs and "sketches". They were the equivalent of musicals but they were simplistic and missed the continuity of full musicals of today. They were a group of songs, perhaps in different keys without any or a few common musical themes. He is considered the father of American Musical Theatre.(Ewan 68) As a proud chauvinist, his song writing was one of the first to be used to promote national cause or "national propaganda". As soon as President Wilson declared war, his most famous song "Over There" became a national hit. (Kenrick) It showed the value of fighting the war. His war songs showed the negative side of staying out of the war. His songs did not take into acco unt the human emotional side of fighting a war. Irving Berlin (1888-1989) was one of many Jewish immigrants who came to the US as a child. He lived in abject poverty. His father was a singer (cantor) in the synagogue so his son would have had vocal religious training. This fact is not to be neglected as a young orthodox Jew he chanted his studies. (Kenrick) Once in the US, his father died within 2 years and as a child I Berlin went to work on the streets to help support his family. Little by little

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Computer Technology Essay Example for Free

Computer Technology Essay The education system world wide has been vying to raise the quality of education as reflected in the volumes of research regarding quality education and teacher effectiveness. In the light of the rapid advancement of technology, more research attention has been given to the integration of information and computer technology (ICT) with the educational design and curriculum. It has been included for since computers were invented, however because of the rapid rate by which modernization occurs, the ministries of education for every country must be able to cope up by intensifying the rate degree of integration while upholding quality content and instruction as well. In present Saudi Arabia, the application of satellite technology had been the focused issue because of its potential to elevate the quality of teaching and learning at all levels (Al-Sharhan 2000). Studies have shown Australian states as a model for the significant links communication systems provide for students across the nation to interact and add valuable substance to their learning (Al-Sharhan 2000). The potential of such satellite communication new instated in Saudi Arabia and its uses for educational purpose is yet an area to be discovered and studied because of the reduced equipment, maintenance and operational cause that this technological advancement provides (Al-Sharhan 2000). However, the education system in Saudi Arabia must be prepared by properly equipping their teachers, their curriculum, and their students for the changes that would occur as the operation of the satellite communication are full-fledged. The important focus of this management plan is to introduce ICT and integrate it into the method of quality teaching and learning to the highest degree possible. In ten years time the great need to close the â€Å"performance gap† between the schools and colleges in terms of achieving the goals of a world class high quality education would be eradicated if not it would totally minimal compared to the global leaders in education (Kelly 2001). The current status of the education system defined by limited technology. Studies are still underway into how the satellites can be used however, at present; there are still no clear terms in how it must be used before this quality teaching and learning framework. Planning for improvement must be based upon the baseline or the â€Å"initial audit† of the school and college to include the opinions of the parents, the students, and the staff as the starting point for quality management (Kelly 2001). Considerations must be a unified expected outcome, the welfare of the internal customers, the key persons responsible for implementation and task assignments and a means to assess and evaluate the effectiveness of the plan (Kelly 2001). Overview There must be a close consideration for the content and educational design for the integration of ICT into the curriculum and into the classroom instruction (Naidu 2003). Content refers to the information or in the scenario of the ICT integration, electronic information that the students would get as learners (Naidu 2003). Educational design refers to the processes that the educators would use in planning and providing the education for the students (Naidu 2003). The faculty needs to be prepared and guided for the integration of the technology. As the method of instruction would be elevated and modernized, the teaching quality must be improved as well and not be forgotten in the excitement for advanced technology (Fraser 2004). Regulatory and quality assurance would be increased, however there would be a shift from a managerial system to an academic accountability system for the teachers in the college as they have more freedom as well as responsibility when their methods for instruction grows wider (Fraser 2004). The increased emphasis on quality and accountability would be a response to the changes that the colleges and universities would have with a change in their material conditions as the satellite technology become fully accessible and utilized in education (Fraser 2004). As most teachers are used to the traditional technologies, they must be aware that every tool that would become available has something unique and valuable to offer (Clark et al. 2003). Technology can enrich any course subject in ways the traditional method cannot (Clark et al. 2003). In terms of assessment such ICT programs, a web-based assessment reflects the continuum of assessment types because of their nature of improvement (Naidu 2003). Traditional assessments were known to lack a variety and autonomy as well as student choice, they were also lacking in work-based application and project-based learning as well as limited peer and self-assessment strategies (Naidu 2003). ICT-based assessments would be introduced in this plan to be able to evaluate the quality of an ICT-integrated education system. Satellite communications are used for different applications that can both be used for educational purposes; one is for remote sensing, taking pictures and capturing scientific data and the other for telecommunication purposes (Al-Sharhan 2000). Their difference in purpose can point to different themes and school activities by which they would be used. The telephone link would be one of the most important contributions this satellite technology can have for the schools of Saudi Arabia (Al-Sharhan 2000). Theoretical Foundations Expected Outcome Teachers. The computer and all the benefits it can provide have been massively changing the perception for teaching instruction (Nicholls 2002). The expectations have become higher in terms of teacher preparation and delivery in relation to quality education (Nicholls 2002). The teachers can not be one way or the other when it comes to technology; most of the time, some either ignore technology because of the lack of trust and knowledge or rely on them because of familiarity (Nicholls 2002). The implementation of this plan would enable the teachers to be comfortable with teaching with technology. In less than ten years, the staff would become so familiar with ICT that it would be the new normalcy when it comes to quality education. The elevation of standard for the Saudi Arabia schools would reflect that not only a few subjects would make use of such ICT-based curriculum, but it would be a requirement for every subject course and professor. The educators would be the ones introducing technological advancement to their students with their methods and in turn the students would be equipped to use them because of such instruction. Students. The satellite technology would be able to accommodate a large number of students simultaneously and over an extended geographical area (Al-Sharhan 2000). Most of the students are more IT literate and expect technology to be used for teaching by the educators (Nicholls 2002). The teachers, who are well-equipped in operating technology, would be able to customize their activities to fit the needs of the students. It encourages the students to go beyond the lecture to expand their learning and to conduct self-directed study (Nicholls 2002). The school may have web-based discussion forums, electronic mailing lists that enhance student participation and individualized learning (Nichols 2002). The Education System. The integration of ICT and the use of satellite technology can be potential for elevating the standard of the education system in developing countries to overcome specific problems such as loosing high quality teachers due to emigration to other countries, shortage of physical equipment and materials in many schools (Al-Sharhan 2000). The combat against high adult literacy can also be fought better given the Open University potential for online learning (Al-Sharhan 2000). It also provides the solution for segregating male and female students that would be difficult in physical classrooms but would be possible with online classrooms that would give more educational opportunities to women than before (Al-Sharhan 2000).

Friday, September 20, 2019

The Humor In Friends

The Humor In Friends Friends is the famous sitcom in the United States which was played at the NBC television since the 1990s. After entering the Chinese film market, The TV sitcom also have given Chinas TV viewers a new feeling, and attracted many fans of it. As one of the most popular sitcoms in the United States, Friends has been successfully completed 10 seasons. And more than 60 countries have its loyal audience. But, when the film was playing, I fount that most of the people seemed by no means to had laughed as might as perhaps had been anticipated in canned laughter. To explore the reason is people are unable to understand the humor of it. So they dont laugh. Therefore, this essay attempts to explore humor of Friends through the use of relevant theory and research. Definition and Classification of Humor Humor derived from the Latin whose original meaning is body fluid. And the extensive use of humorous is attribute to the British playwright whose name is Ben Jonson. The Every Man in His Humor which is created by him is remarkable for humor. Humor is a form of languages which through the art of processing and it is artistic language. Definition of Humor French writer named Degebola had given a definition of humor: Humor is an element in peoples laugh. Humor is what moves us. Humor is a smile in the eyes of wise man. This is a happy idea of an unsophisticated person. In fact, it is very hard to give a definition of humor for it belongs to a genius and inspiration. Humor will use the glows of wisdom to rout of the dark of life, and create the beaming smile. Lenin had said that: Humor is a beautiful, healthy quality. Maybe this is why some people have sense of humor as a manifestation of a persons maturity. So humor is the great wisdom, which is the ridicule and naughty after apperceive life. And this will be my definition of humor. Common Classification of Humor From the form of points, humor mainly including these types as followed: Transform Humor means to agree with this point firstly, and then worsened, and point out the different point of view. This humor can make both sides of this antagonism freed from the confrontation, and create a relaxed atmosphere. Lets take an example: Huxley actively supported and promoted Darwins theory of evolution, for which he had been cursed as Darwins bulldog by the church at that time. A debate, when Huxley went into the meeting, the religious leaders and some people who against the theory of evolution were shouting: Be careful, Darwins bulldog comes again! Huxley wasnt angry, and then he said to the detractors contemptuously: Yes, you are right. But the hounds are the most fearsome things of thieves! As a result, the attackers got much unhappiness, but Huxley and his supporters kept calm and happy. The character of Transform Humor is the objection after agreement, and it clarify their own point of view unexpectedly with the purpose to enable readers to understand thats witty sense of humor. Self-mockery Humor means that others tease you intentionally or unintentionally to send you into a dilemma, and then you can use the Self-mockery Humor to disengage yourself from adversity decently. Rockefeller who was the U.S. oil magnate was a little bald. Once at a public occasion, one of his opponents in a sarcastic tone said to him: Sir, you have made combing into an art form, because you have made an arrangement for every hair of your head! With a wry smile, Rockefeller said: In the past years, they are just a number. But now they both have their own names. Everybody got into laugh, and Rockefeller was also able to escape the predicament quickly. A real sense of humor is inseparable from self-involvement, which gives the humor to others, but also to themselves. People who lack of self-confidence can not humor himself. Therefore, the Self-mockery Humor is more need for self-confidence. Distortion Humor means the listener dont understand the meaning of each other, but apprehend from another aspect intentionally. And bring a sense of humor to make people laugh. Lets take an example to explain. Teacher: I hope all of students parents will come to attend on the parent-teacher meeting this Friday. Student: Excuse me, sir. Which should we call to take part in, farther or mother? Teacher: Its not important. Ask the person who is the head of a household to come. Student: That had to be me. The object that the teacher pointed was parents. But the student interpreted it as member of family. So, of course, he included himself. Distortion Humor is often expressed in the form of pun, similar sound and ambiguity. Sophistry Humor. Hegel once discussed sophistry like this: Sophistry usually means to make a false truth very nice, which like the real thing. Sophistry Humor means to make humor in a sophistic way. Of course, it should make sophistry emotional and extreme. Because it is the only way to make sophistry integrates with humor. Emotionality means to inject joking and ridicule factors into Sophistry. Extreme can make a person know it is false immediately, which avoid deceptive and damaging. Sophistry Humor is not the same as Sophistry Logic. Sophistry Humor let you see the flaws deliberately, and realize the humor in it. For example: The teacher discovered that Peter was sleeping in the class. Then she asked: Why do you sleep at class, Peter? Peter: Im not sleeping. Teacher: Why do you close your eyes? Peter: Teacher, I was reciting the concept. Teacher: Why do you nod you head all the time? Peter: Because your class is very nice, sir. Teacher: Why do you drool? Peter: Because it is full of relish in your class. Peter was sleeping in the class, but he refused to acknowledge. The words that he answered the teacher were all false, which like Hegel said: It is very nice, and like the real thing. The Humor Used in Friends Universal Humor means the way of humor which make different cognitive environment of readers understand easily. For example: Phoebe: Yeah. We dont speak. Shes like this high-powered ¼Ã…’driven career type. Chandler: What does she do? Phoebe: Shes a waitress. (Season 1:2) In this dialog the waitress does not like her twin sister clearly. First, the description of her sister makes the audience think of a high occupation immediately. But as the dialogue progresses, the audience know she is a waitress. Two kinds of script opposition (high / low status) make them have to understand the text again, and this processing has also got more contextual effects. Cultural Humor. Such humorous use the elements of knowledge which should be understood under a particular cultural context. In sitcom, it is often to use some movie stars or the name of a classic novel to get humorous effects. Therefore, the focus of such a translation is that we must notice whether the audience can understand the original knowledge and do some necessary adjustments before translation. Or it must result in failure. For example: Monica: Oh wait ¼Ã…’you know what ¼Ã…’I got it ¼Ã…’I got it ¼Ã…’pretend like you just woke up ¼Ã…’okay ¼Ã…’that will throw her off. Be sleepy. Rachel: Yes ¼Ã…’and grumpy. Chandler: What are you ¼Ã…’stop naming dwarves! ¼Ã‹â€ Season3:4 ¼Ã¢â‚¬ ° Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is well-known story in the West. Sleepy and Grumpy are two of the small dwarfs names. Chandlers reply gives an additional contextual effect to the recipients. But in China, the more familiar calling is the first dwarf, the second dwarf, and the third And the Chinese audiences are unable to obtain the names of the dwarfs. The translation make interpreter pay more efforts, but received little of the contextual effects. So it is failure. Verbal Humor. Language humor (or named pun) is a word game to strive to achieve a humorous effect. When the two scripts appear in a scene simultaneously, they may be overlap or completely overlap, but the meaning must be opposed in certain degree. In translation, due to the coincidence of language, puns can also be reflected perfectly in the translated version by the way of literal translation. For example: 1)Joey: AH ¼Ã…’now Rachel ¼Ã…’these ah ¼Ã…’these little women. Rachel: Yeah. Joey: How little are they? I mean ¼Ã…’are they like scary little? (Season 3:13) Joy is going to read Little women which is recommended by Rachel. But he still comprehends in wrong way for his little reading. 2)Phoebe: Well ¼Ã…’I-I wasnt hopping mad ¼Ã…’you know. Frank: You hopped a little bit. (Season 3:5) Hop means light jumping. But the meaning of the text is very angry. This translation is very successful. However, such a language is rare and more of the status as flowed: 3) Phoebe: Oh. (They start kissing again) Ross :Wait ¼Ã…’wait ¼Ã…’wait. Phoebe: What? Ross: My foot is stuck in the pocket. Phoebe: What? Ross: No ¼Ã…’I cant get it out. Phoebe: Well ¼Ã…’thats not something a girl wants to hear. Ross: No ¼Ã…’come on dont start. (They start kissing again) Ouch! Phoebe: What? Ross: Stupid balls are in the way. (Holds up two balls)(Season 3:6) In this event, the translators can adjust at all levels to make the translation as similar as original interpretation. Humor Translation Theories Through the comparison of humor used in common environment and Friends, we know that humor can roughly be divided into the following two kinds of humor theory. General Theory of Verbal Humor The General Theory of Verbal Humor (GTVH) proposed by Victor Raskin and Salvatore Attardo in 1991 (an extension of the semantic script theory of humour, SSTH which Raskin proposed in 1985) identifies a semantic model capable of expressing incongruities between semantic scripts in verbal humor; this has been seen as an important recent development in the theory of laughter. The GTVH is one of the most mature theories which research the humor of language from linguistic humor. GYVH proposed the humor mechanism which is mad up by script oppo-sition, logical mechanism, situatio, target, narrativestrategy and language. Oppo-sition can be interpreted as overlapping and opposition of two or more of the script. Logical mechanism would mean that only works in a joke. Distorted and joking logic means the logical mechanism of combine two or more scripts. Situatio is the various props of joke: people, events and things. Target means the laughing-stock in humor. Narrativestrategy indicates that any sense of humor will adopt some sort of narrative techniques, such as general narration, dialogue, puzzles and so on. Language contains all the needed information and specific wording the text of the oral language of the text. Attardo think that the most important element of knowledge is that the inconsistent script which has determined the specific choices of other elements. So he point out that any humorous text must contain this factor. He also pointed out that when two humorous compare, the levels higher, the same less. (Attardo, 1994:183) So it is also a tool to compare the similarity of humorous. Relevant Theory of Humor Translation Relevance theory is used mainly to understand the problem and describe discourse.In the view of its founders Sperber and Wilson, the context in discourse comprehension is a very important factor. They suggest that it is necessary to understand the words in context. And its only need to activate in certain aspects of the context, but not all. The building of context doesnt progress in the bound of mutual knowledge for understanding the discourse, but try their best to build their own context to become communion. When people affiliating with each other, they continue to correspond and compromise, and be in accord at last. Relevance theory suggests that here are generally three situations about complementarity and expansion for interlocutors to cognize context: The first is encyclopedic knowledge in context, which the listeners add some necessary encyclopedic knowledge to expand their understanding context in their existing cognitive context. The second is context of knowledge. It means that the listeners can transfer related information from the short-term memory which provided by above text to expand their understanding of the context. The last is situational knowledge in context. It means that the listener must call the relevant information from the surrounding scene to expand their understanding of the context. When translating the universal humor, its important for readers to gain more contextual effects through the process of seeking the opposite script to pay extra effort. When translating the cultural humor, the translator should pay attention to that if the readers knowledge can understand the elements in the text. When translating the verbal humor, the translator can do some flexible adjustments within the allowable range. Analysis of Humor in Friends dialogues Through the above descriptions and argumentations between common humor and the humor in Friends, the following we will make a detailed analysis of the humorous dialogues in Friends. There are a large number of humorous dialogues in Friends. But not all these dialogues can be used in this paper. So, the humorous dialogue needs to be created in accordance with factors or the reasons for creating humor. Those that flout three maxims were chosen to be explained in details. Humor Produced by the Deliberate Flout of the Maxim of Quality By the maxim of quality, it means that in a dialogue we all make our contribution to one thing that is true or say things that are true. To keep to this maxim, we simultaneously observe two sub-maxims: we do not say what we believe to be false, and we do not say anything we lack adequate evidence. Joey: What are you talking about? Keep it! Phoebe: Its not mine, I didnt earn it. If I kept it, it would be like stealing. Rachel: Yeah, but if you spent it, it would be like shopping! Phoebe: Okay. Okay, lets say I bought a really great pair of shoes. Do you know what Id hear, with every step I took? Not-mine. Not-mine. Not-mine. And even if I was happy, okay, and, and skipping-Not-not-mine, not-not-mine, not-not-mine, not-not-mineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦(Friends, 1994) This dialogue appears in this scene that Phoebe find there is 500 extra dollars appeared in her account. And every one advises her to keep the money, but she is unwilling. She wants to use them to buy something. She believes that if she used the money to buy shoes, shoes would blame her. Of course, she knows shoes can say nothing. She is saying something untrue and is thus flouting the maxim of Quality. At the same time, humor is produced by the shoes which are personified as a person having a voice. Her implied message is I should not keep the extra money. And I would feel guilty if I kept and used it. 2)Ross: Yeah, uhà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ and then I figured after you win, we could all go out to the balcony and see a night rainbow with gremlins dancing on top of it! Ross: You know what, Im sure your wish is gonna come true, but, you guys-just in case, maybe a genie will come out if we rub this lamp! (Friends, 1999) Ross said that these two sentences, meaning that compare with his friends words someone see a night rainbow with gremlins dancing on top of It, the words a genie will come out if we rub this lamp is more convinced, to show he does not believe his friends would win. The humor here is expressed through the use of metaphor. Ross knows that it is hardly happen for the phenomenon what he said, so he is flouting the maxim of quality deliberately. The implicature that results is It is impossible for you to win. 3) Ross: If I hadnt let you talk me to go into the airport in the first place, I wouldnt have put my fist through the wall. Chandler: You put your fist through the wall? Ross: No. I miss it and hit the door. But it opened really hard. (Friends, 1997) Ross fails to persuade his girlfriend to stay with him. He says he put his fist through the wall to show how upset and angry he is. But, what Ross said is doubted by Chandler because Chandler knows Ross is too timid to put his fist through the wall. Last, Ross admits he just put his fist on the door. Here, the untrue words which said by Ross on purpose and so it flout the maxim of quality. This kind of humor is founded on hyperbole largely. Humor Produced by the Deliberate Flout of the Maxim of Relevance The maxim of relevance means that we make all of contribution relevant to the exchange in a dialogue. 1 ¼Ã¢â‚¬ °Ross: So, I just finished this fascinating book. By the year 2030, therell be computers that can carry out the same amount of functions as an actual human brain. So theoretically you could download tour thoughts and memories into this computer and and and live forever as a machine. Chandler: And I just realized I could sleep with my eyes open. (Friends, 1995) Although Ross and Chandler are good friends, they are worried about different things due to their differences in character. When Ross is talking about high-tech, Chandler talks about sleeping with eye open in response. His reaction has nothing to do with the subject of Ross. Therefore, he is flouting the maxim of Relation. It is easy for audience to understand his sense of humor. That the subtext is: Im not interested in your topic. 2 ¼Ã¢â‚¬ °Ross: I can ask her to live with me. Chandler: Are you serious? Ross: Why not? Chandler: Because youve only known her for six weeks. Ive got a carton of milk in my fridge, and Ive had a longer relationship with. Ross: Look, guys, I love her, you know? (Friends, 2001) Chandler: And I love the milk! But I wont ask some British girl to move in with me! Ross wants to ask his British Girlfriend to live with him. But Chandler disagrees. He thinks it is too short for them to live together. And this is reasonable. Later, he refers to the milk which is in his fridge. Chandler compares the time that he keeps the milk in fridge with the time that Ross knows his girlfriend. It is clear that there are no comparable kinds. Obviously, the thing said by Chandler is irrelevant to the matter of Ross. Thus humor is produced by his flouting the maxim of Relevance. Phoebe: Oh, hey, Mon, do you still have your like old blouses and dresses from high school? Monica: Yeah, I think I have some around here somewhere. Why? Phoebe: Well, its just that maternity clothes are so expensive. (Friends, 2003) In this conversation, when Phoebe is asked why she talks about Monicas dresses from high school, she answers maternity clothes are expensive which does not seem to answer the question. But in fact, she is suggesting that the blouses and dresses of Monica are big enough for a pregnant woman. Thus humor is produced by her flouting the maxim of Relevance deliberately. Humor Produced by the Deliberate Flout of the Maxim of Manner By the maxim of manner, it is meant that in a dialogue we all try to be perspicuous. In line with this maxim, there are four sub-maxims: 1) we try to avoid obscurity, 2) we try to avoid ambiguity, 3) we try to be brief, and 4) we try to be orderly. Phoebe: Ooh! Oh! (She starts to pluck at the air just in front of Ross.) Ross: No, no dont! Stop cleansing my aura! No, just leave my aura alone, okay? Phoebe: Fine! Be murky! (Friends, 1996) In this conversation, Phoebe tries to catch Rosss attention by the way of plucking the air in front of Ross. But Ross feels annoying, and he would like leaving alone. So he said: Stop cleansing my aura! Just leave my aura alone. Moreover, Phoebe doesnt use unhappy to describe the air around Ross directly. She uses murky. Here, both Ross and Phoebe use obscure expression and thus flout the maxim of Manner. But the humorous effect they create and the implicature of their utterance are obvious and accepted by audience. Emily: What did you decide? Does your uncle Nathan get an invitation or not? Ross: Oh, God! Nobody likes him. And hes so cheap. I mean hed never fly to London in a million yearsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Yeah, invite him. (Friends, 1997) Ross and Emily are deciding attendees for their wedding. When Emily and Ross discuss whether tell Ross uncle to attend the wedding, Ross does not answer yes or no briefly and directly. Instead, he says a lot of weak points of his uncle in the first place, but finally he decides to invite him so quickly. Therefore, it is clear that Ross intentionally express in a long way which create a sense of humor in the way of flouting the maxim of Manner. Chandler: Now it seems like all of a sudden, so much is happening. Joey: I know. Ross is getting married. Chandler: Phoebes making people. Joey: Everybodys doing stuff. Chandler: And we just sit here. I meant if I died, the only people know would be that I was here only by the ass print on the chair! (Friends, 1997) Chandler and Joey have a conversation talking about their recent life. Compared with the friends who are in dealing with some major events, they are wasting their lives. Chandler says these words to create a funny effect, and that is we just sit hereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦if I died, the only people know would be t hat I was here only by the ass print on the chair. This sentence could hardly be humorous if he just says directly and briefly we just sit here without doing things meaningful. Therefore, Chandler produces humor by the way of flouting the maxim of Manner. Conclusion This paper discusses some humorous conversations in the U.S. sitcom Friends. Humorous conversation delivers the meaning of a conversation situation in this case. Therefore, this paper, furthermore, is possible to explore the deeper meanings which are implied or hidden in humor. To some extents, this paper can help audiences better understand the method for humor, as well as the expression of humor, in particular, to improve their ability of understanding and using humor of American verbal because the humor in Friends is humor of unique American style. However, the researches in this field have not reached a mature stage, which are quite deficiency and lack of authority both in China and abroad. Because of the differences between different cultures, people in non-English speaking countries do not fully understand the English sense of humor sometimes. Friends is a classical and typical American sitcom which is full of strong elements of American culture. The way of Studying and discussing American culture is a great help for English learners to understand American humor. Therefore, a further study of humor in Friends can possibly make certain contributions for cross-cultural communication. Humorous language, as the main form to express humor, is popular in our daily life. It comes from our daily life while to some degree it goes beyond life reality. Humor is such a pervasive human phenomenon, observable in many aspects of life that it has been studied from a multi-disciplinary viewpoint, including fields like linguistics, rhetoric, aesthetics, philosophy, sociology, and etc. From this essay, detailed and Pragmatic Analysis of Verbal Humor in Friends can help English learners to better improve their ability of understanding and the appreciation of the nature of American humor. At the same time, it is illuminating for them to apply humor skill to mediate interpersonal relationships. References English Language Humor Appreciation. Mao Guirong. Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences Publishing House, 1993. Friends (File). Bright, Kevin (Director). 1994-2004. Pragmatic Analysis of Humor in FRIENDS. Chen Jin. South China Agricultural University, 2006. English Linguistics. Ling Zhenghua. Hunan Peoples Publishing House, 2006. The American Way of Comedy. Inga Walte. 2000. Linguistic Humor. Hu Fanchou. Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences Publishing House, 1987.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Gwenllian Princess of Wales :: European History

Gwenllian Princess of Wales Gwenllian was only a few months old when her father, Llywelyn the Last, was killed near Irfon Bridge on 11 December 1282. Her mother, Llywelyn's cousin, Eleanor de Montfort, died while giving birth to her in the palace of Pen-y-Bryn, in Abergwyngregyn near Bangor, Gwynedd on 12 June 1282. Llywelyn and Eleanor (the daughter of Simon de Monfort) were married in Worcester in 1278 following Eleanor's release at the end of a period of about three years as a prisoner of the English crown. Gwenllian was the only child of the marriage. There were no sons, therefore, to inherit the title of Prince of Wales, but as the daughter of Prince Llywelyn, Gwenllian was the heiress of the Princes of Gwynedd and the royal family of Aberffraw. She was the Princess of Wales and as a result represented considerable danger to the king of England. Were it not for their close family ties it is likely that the king would have arranged for her too to be killed. Instead, she was destined, upon the orders of Edward I, to spend the remainder of her life in a Gilbertine priory at Sempringham in Lincolnshire. Edward kept the title of 'Prince of Wales' for the crown, bestowing it upon his son Edward who was crowned in Caernarfon in 1301 aged 17 years. Sempringham was far from Wales, and the Gilbertine order was an English order led by a highly respected prior who was requested to take care of the Welsh princess for the princely sum of  £20 a year. Although the princess was cloistered at Sempringham to ensure her disappearance from the face of Welsh history, the king of England was not averse to using Gwenllian to his advantage as he saw fit. When Sempringham fell upon hard times the king wrote to the Pope requesting assistance, reminding him that the prior was the guardian of the daughter of Llywelyn, Prince of Wales. Gwenllian spent her life in the flat fenlands of eastern England rather than amongst the mountains of the land of her birth and, in all likelihood, she never knew the sounds of her native tongue. Throughout her time at the priory the English never succeeded in correctly pronouncing her name; she is listed as 'Wencilian' in the priory's records and it seems that she herself used the signature 'Wentliane'. According to the priory's records, Gwenllian, daughter of the Prince of Wales, died in 1337 having spent fifty-four years in the order.

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

The Genetic Screening Debate :: Biology Biological Genes Papers

The Genetic Screening Debate Within the past thirty years, researchers have found strong evidence linking genes and disease. The development of predictive genetic tests followed shortly after the isolation of certain candidate genes. Although predictive genetic screening is only available for a handful of diseases, its effects and ramifications have become hotly debated issues in a wide range of areas, from government to religion. The debate began in the 1993 when researchers isolated the BRCA1 gene, which is associated with increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. The discovery of this gene led to excitement and speculation of developing a predictive genetic test to identify those women at risk for these cancers. In this paper, I will first describe the biology of genetic testing, and then discuss the pros and cons of predictive genetic testing. Before we start discussing how genetic tests are developed, let us discuss how genes can trigger disease. A sound body requires the action of many proteins working together. For a protein to function properly, an intact gene must encode for that specific protein. A mutation describes a gene which has been changed. The most common type of mutation is a single change of a nucleotide of DNA. Other types of mutations include the loss or gain of a nucleotide and the disappearance or multiplication of long segments of DNA. Mutations can have three effects: beneficial, harmful, or neutral. Mutations are beneficial if the fitness of an individual is enhanced. Harmful mutations can either slightly alter a protein, where the protein may still minimally function, or they may totally disable a protein. In this instance, the outcome is not only based on how a mutation alters a protein’s function, but on how important the protein is to the body (Understanding Gene Testing). Since we have determined how genes can trigger harmful effects in the body, we can now examine how scientists look for specific genes that cause diseases. Scientists, looking for a diseased gene, study DNA samples in individuals where the disease has been present in the family for many generations. They look for specific genetic markers, which are DNA segments that are identified in individuals with the disease, and not identified in healthy individuals. Scientists then narrow down the area of DNA by mapping a gene. If a disease gene is mapped to an area, then the genelike sequences become candidate genes for a specific disease gene.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Childrens Television Commercials: Analyzing the Representation of Fam

Children's Television Commercials: Analyzing the Representation of Family The assignment requires children’s commercials to be studied to find how these commercials are coded to give meaning to a representation of ‘the family’. However, before this can be tackled the concept of representation must be discussed as well as clarifying what exactly is meant by ‘children’s commercials’. The assignment is open to many interpretations as to what constitutes a children’s commercial. A commercial aimed at children, especially young children, must have an appeal to both child and parent alike, as it is most likely the parent who will be purchasing any of the items desired. There is a crucial interplay within commercials between selling the item to the child whilst also selling the product to the parent. When identifying children’s commercials it is advisable to look beyond the most obvious choice of toys or ‘fun’ food to all the commercials involving ‘the family’ which a child may be exp osed to. Commercials are specifically placed to gain the maximum exposure to the optimum audience for their product, so any commercial shown during children’s viewing time must have some relevance for a child. Another point to be addressed is how is a child defined. In this essay, the definition of a child from the Oxford Dictionary of Current English is taken in a modified form. The definition is a â€Å"young human being below the age of puberty† (1996, 141), but in this essay, because puberty occurs at different stages in different people, a child is taken to be of primary school age. Yet further complexity is added when personal taste is taken into account. A child of five will want very different things than a ten-year-old child, it is hard to judge wh... ...ising children, which is then used to sell the product. Bibliography Bignell, J. (1997) Media Semiotics: An Introduction. Manchester University Press: Manchester. Chandler, D. (2002) Semiotics: the Basics. Routledge: London. Goldman, R. (1998) Reading Ads Socially. Routledge: London. Gunter, B. and McAleer, J. (1997) Children and Television. Routledge: London. Johnston, R.J., Gregory, D., Pratt, G., and Watts, M. (2000) The Dictionary of Human Geography, 4th Edition. Oxford: Blackwell Publishers. Kaufman, G. (1999) The Portrayal of Men’s Family Roles in Television Commercials. [WWW document] http:/www.findarticles.com/cf_0/m2294/1999_Sept/58469479/p1/article. jhtml?term=gender+role+advertising Spivak, G. (1988) ‘Can the Subaltern speak?’ in Nelson, C. and Grossberg, L. (eds) Marxism and the Interpretation of Culture. Macmillan: London. Children's Television Commercials: Analyzing the Representation of Fam Children's Television Commercials: Analyzing the Representation of Family The assignment requires children’s commercials to be studied to find how these commercials are coded to give meaning to a representation of ‘the family’. However, before this can be tackled the concept of representation must be discussed as well as clarifying what exactly is meant by ‘children’s commercials’. The assignment is open to many interpretations as to what constitutes a children’s commercial. A commercial aimed at children, especially young children, must have an appeal to both child and parent alike, as it is most likely the parent who will be purchasing any of the items desired. There is a crucial interplay within commercials between selling the item to the child whilst also selling the product to the parent. When identifying children’s commercials it is advisable to look beyond the most obvious choice of toys or ‘fun’ food to all the commercials involving ‘the family’ which a child may be exp osed to. Commercials are specifically placed to gain the maximum exposure to the optimum audience for their product, so any commercial shown during children’s viewing time must have some relevance for a child. Another point to be addressed is how is a child defined. In this essay, the definition of a child from the Oxford Dictionary of Current English is taken in a modified form. The definition is a â€Å"young human being below the age of puberty† (1996, 141), but in this essay, because puberty occurs at different stages in different people, a child is taken to be of primary school age. Yet further complexity is added when personal taste is taken into account. A child of five will want very different things than a ten-year-old child, it is hard to judge wh... ...ising children, which is then used to sell the product. Bibliography Bignell, J. (1997) Media Semiotics: An Introduction. Manchester University Press: Manchester. Chandler, D. (2002) Semiotics: the Basics. Routledge: London. Goldman, R. (1998) Reading Ads Socially. Routledge: London. Gunter, B. and McAleer, J. (1997) Children and Television. Routledge: London. Johnston, R.J., Gregory, D., Pratt, G., and Watts, M. (2000) The Dictionary of Human Geography, 4th Edition. Oxford: Blackwell Publishers. Kaufman, G. (1999) The Portrayal of Men’s Family Roles in Television Commercials. [WWW document] http:/www.findarticles.com/cf_0/m2294/1999_Sept/58469479/p1/article. jhtml?term=gender+role+advertising Spivak, G. (1988) ‘Can the Subaltern speak?’ in Nelson, C. and Grossberg, L. (eds) Marxism and the Interpretation of Culture. Macmillan: London.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Ebooks vs books Essay

Paper and electronic books both make an excellent and effective way of reading, although paper books allow more of a precise effective reading while electronic books is often quicker and more convenient. Reading has always been one of our important and educational element. Since childhood, reading and books has always been exposed to us. Society evolution of books has completely changed and restructured our way of reading. Paper books are described to be â€Å"traditional books† whereas electronic books are described to be â€Å"modern†; but no matter of its  differences, both paper and electronic books are essential functions of reading. In difference of the fact that readings traditional and modern have many similarities, they also have some differences. Between Paper and Electronic Books, there are loads differences as well as similarities shared. Paper Books, for example affects the reader more differently than electronics. Though they both serve the same purpose in the matter; reading traditionally, increases the reader’s way of thinking and education. It impacts the readers on how they express themselves; improve  communication skills and opening their mind to new ideas. It offers more of an escape to the readers, thus broadening their mind and creativity. Whereas electronic books, has the advantage to change their lightning so that it is easier for the readers to read. Like a computer, it allows the reader to have the ability to translate any given book, look up information about the book and retrieve books quickly. Based on earlier research, many people assume the price of eBooks is more or less better than buying books. Generally each book has a different price depending on if it is hard or a paper  copy. Reading electronically, there are many of websites that could give the reader books for free and some that sells them at a cheaper price. Nevertheless, paper books at least have its advantages and reasons in their price. Despite their price in new books, bookstores can offer discounts and other benefits for books of usage at lower prices than eBooks. According to publishers, printing paper books are usually accounted for only eight percent of its cost based off the publishing. However, electronic books are often cheaper because of none printing fees. A clear difference is also the space and weight between each other. Coming in different bulky sizes, books often take more than enough space and are heavy. Carrying more than two or three around can become like a work-out. One the other hand, studies show that readers like some of the weight. With the given weight of the books, it allow readers to make sure that their items are not misplaced (Kevin O’Kelly). Despite the weight, books are known to be reliable equipment. Withstanding abuse form variations of temperature, moistures, falls and tearing, they are often known to be strong. Even more so, they give off an appealing yet elegant look and do not involve a need of power to function. Whereas eBooks are often thin and created to weigh the amount of a smart phone. EBooks are more of viewing hi-tech software, which can carry dozen to hundreds of books. Although they are able to withstand traveling without weight, eBooks also are able to break easily. Not being durable enough, eBooks has more of a chance breaking when dropped or wet. Still rather than being an easy usage, eBooks often need connection and can only produce a reader one book at a time. This can be problematic for a student that needed to study. In contrast, accommodating either paper or eBooks, each has their own disadvantage and advantage in reading. Each is somewhat of an advantage or disadvantage to different readers but they are both materialistic of the same thing and purpose. Similarly, both paper books and eBooks serve the purpose, for the reader to enjoy books. The decision is ultimately up to the reader to decide. Some people find that technology is convenient and reliable; while other fined that there is no reason to change things. They just each have ways of being an advantage and a disadvantage but are very similar in ways SOURCES Couts, Andrew. â€Å"IS THERE ANY REASON TO OWN PAPER BOOKS BESIDES SHOWING OFF? NOT REALLY. † Web. 26 October 2013 Mandly, Leah. â€Å"Nook vs. Book. † Daily Collegian (2010): Web. 21 Nov 2010. O’Kelly, Kevin. â€Å"EBooks vs. Print: Actually a Nonissue†. Web. 25 February 2014. Rlaforme. â€Å"Kindle vs. Nook vs. Book. † Genera=on the Alterna=ve Voice 1984. SBI. 12 January 2010. Web. 21 November 2010. Slater, Marc. â€Å"EBooks VS Printed Books: Which Is Preferred Now? †.

Vulnerability Assessment

The first thing that must be done to protect a home is to conduct a risk assessment to figure out the potential for threat in the designated neighborhood, vulnerability, and the possibility of consequences of risk occurrence. Three tools that are normally addressed when planning security for any home are: 1. What home security and safety risks are the most typical of the neighborhood for which the assessment is working and what would families be more exposed to? 2. How exposed are the neighborhood residents? Have they taken the necessary precautions to prevent a disaster and to deter all threats? 3. How much could be lost if these precautions have been ignored? To answer the first question it is important to discover the types of crimes that have been committed in the neighborhood most recently. By asking fellow neighbors and local police crime prevention officers, statistics on most common crimes and how that particular neighborhood stacks up to others in the rest of the county can be found. Once a list of possible threats has been established, checking the home for vulnerabilities that would leave it susceptible to a crime or an accident would be the next step in the process. After identifying the vulnerability to these potential threats, a vulnerability assessment on a residence may be conducted. A vulnerability assessment of a home as well as a list of countermeasures and their costs’ is what is required next. Focus on the different directions that potential threats may use and the avenues of approach that they will likely take to threaten property or the area surrounding property. There is a neighborhood watch program that is counted on to support additional observation and early warning. The signal for such a warning is slamming metal object to metal object in a series of three to alert the neighbors as a code to indicate direction and threat. You can better observe your surroundings from your roof or second story. Establishing an observation post/listening post (LP/OP) can be an effective way to gain a superior advantage gaining an elevated advantage in addition to limited access for potential attackers. If your LP/OP has a covered and concealed approach and withdrawal route back to your house, then this would be an ideal location looking out for one another. You probably do not want to open your home to too many family or friends in case of disaster or attack because of the supply of food, ammunition, clean water, and toiletries. There are not many avenues of approach that threats can use in order for them to see straight into the neighborhood or directly to the house so the focus of mitigating this risk is centered around the front and back yards. Place your landscaping like boulders, rock, gravel, trees, and vegetation as well as blinds or curtains can limit the amount of visibility that a threat has to see into your home. Loose gravel placed under the windows, broken windows, and doors will make noise and could possibly spook anyone from attempting a break in. There are not any covered or concealed routes for attackers on foot to approach your house undetected from, so if they did not use a frontal assault they would have to jump the fence in the backyard to try to gain entry through the back door. The visibility from all windows downstairs is limited due to the landscape, but the upstairs has one hundred percent visibility 360 degrees around the entire house. Many dead zones (areas that you cannot see) due to the house being in a sub-division, but no brush will have to be cut down. Windows are easily broken, so keep yourself prepared for Hurricanes, tornadoes, other bad storms with ? to ? inch plywood cut for all windows with mounting hardware. The lighting that you have surrounding your house can have many uses. Illuminating the areas of approach to your house can force intruders to look for a softer target, and it can also give you and your neighbors a better opportunity to give a more detailed description to police when they flee. Mounting your lights with easily re-moveable hardware like wing nuts will assist you if you ever have to relocate them to a more vulnerable part of your residence. Ballistic breaching is the act of using a shotgun to remove the deadbolts from doors, making it possible for attackers to breach the security of your home. Think about installing manmade levers that can latch from the bottom of the door to the floor and the top of the door to the ceiling. This creates a major problem for any intruder because it forces them to stay in the fatal funnel for a longer period before entering your home. The fatal funnel is the area most dangerous for anyone trying to breach a room because it is the smallest area of any room. This creates a better opportunity for the homeowner to defend him or herself by being able to fire a weapons system into a smaller area, reducing the risk of missing the target. The ability to defend your home with small arms does not come cheap. Probably the most expensive cost of any home security tool used is the money you will spend, not only on the fire arm itself, but also the ammunition as well. However, being able to shoot from your home is not as near important as it is for your home to withstand small arms fire. Most homes provide terrible cover (protection) from small arms fire. Aside from sand bagging or laying sheet steel on the walls around your windows, any containers that hold dirt would also do. Wargaming† is a term often used by the U. S. Army before every mission they conduct overseas. The best vulnerability assessment would come from you â€Å"wargaming† various situations based on the environment you live in, then develop countermeasures to mitigate the threats and weaknesses you have determined. Again, call it â€Å"wargaming† or whatever you will, but it is an effective way to look at contingencies and resources nee ded to implement better plans and countermeasures.

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Lord of the Flies: The Evil of Human Nature Essay

â€Å"However Simon thought of the beast, there rose before his inward sight the picture of a human at once heroic and sick(Golding 128). This quote from William Goldings novel, Lord of the Flies, effectively suggests that human beings are evil; which is also the main theme of the novel. In the novel, the major characters at the ending reinforce Goldings negative view of human nature. Golding provides his view of human nature very early in the novel. The island on which the boys land is described as a paradise with a variety of flora and fauna. Upon the boys landing, the tube carrying the boys causes a scar on the island. The intensity of the destruction caused by the scar is described: All round him the long scar smashed into the jungle was a bath of heat(Golding 11). However, the destruction does not stop there. Later, the boys burn down a large part of the island as a result of their carelessness. Here, Golding shows that humans cause destruction even if they did not mean to. He is almost suggesting that causing destruction is second nature to us humans. At the end of the novel, the destruction comes full circle when Jacks tribe burns down the entire island. The presence of the boys has completely changed the island from a beautiful paradise to a charred wreckage. Goldings pessimistic view of human nature is further expanded with the issue of hunting. As the novel progresses, Jacks level of obsession with hunting continues to escalate until the very end of the novel. It is interesting to note that although the island has an abundance of fruits and the boys can easily catch fish and crabs at the beach, Jack insists on hunting to get meat. Later on, he enjoys hunting as if it were a sport:His mind was crowded with memories; memories of the knowledge that had come to them when they had outwitted a living thing, imposed their will upon it, taken away its life like a satisfying drink(Golding 88). Jack hunts not with the sole intention to get meat, but he particularly enjoy exercising power over living creatures while hunting. This shows how much Jack enjoys having power; the power to control other beings. Throughout the novel, Jack does everything he can to gain the respect of the boys; to gain support for power. Later when he most of the boys join his tribe, Jack takes one last step to secure his position as chief of his tribe. He goes as far as to order his tribe to hunt and kill Ralph to eliminate the last threat to his position. Here, we can see that Jack has moved from hunting pigs to hunting humans. Thus, this shows how savage and evil man can be as he hunts even his own kin. Besides, these examples also show that humans have an unquenchable thirst for power that if not controlled, will blind us and take over our soul. In the novel, Golding uses Jack and his tribe to illustrate the effects of complete freedom to man. After Jacks tribe is formed, the members are no longer referred to as boys but as savages with Jack as their Chief. This is a direct reference to the boys regression into a primitive state of being. Jacks tribe also performs several primitive practices that are usually attributed as savage. First of all, they paint their faces and bodies to conceal themselves while hunting pigs. Next, they perform brutal killing of pigs:Roger found a lodgment point and began to push till he was leaning with his whole weight. The spear moved forward inch by inch and the terrifying squealing became a high-pitched scream. Then Jack found the throat and the hot blood spouted over his hands(Golding 168,169). Last of all, they give an offering, the pigs head, to the beast hoping it would not harm them. Thus, this shows that the boys do not understand the true nature of the beast. Their situation is similar to primitive man, who gave offerings to gods and idols to protect their own well-being from natural disasters they did not understand. It is during the presentation of the offering that Jack said: Sharpen a stick at both ends (Golding 169). Obediently, Roger sharpens a stick and Jack skewers the pigs head on one end of the stick and places the other into the ground. This statement is repeated again at the end of the novel. When Ralph asks Samneric of what Jacks tribe plan to with him once he was captured one of them replied, Roger sharpened a stick at both ends(Golding234). Although Ralph would hardly understand what the phrase means, the terrible truth becomes clear to the reader. Jacks tribe plans to behead Ralph and skewer his head on a stick sharpened at both ends as another offering to the beast. It is, by far, the most brutal display of human savagery. Without the eye of watchful adults, Jack and his tribe are uncontrollable; and Jack as their leader, has absolute power. Golding has written Lord of the Flies based on his experience in war. He realizes that war is the greatest act of human evil, for it takes the lives of innocent people and causes nothing but destruction. Therefore, it is fitting for Golding to highlight the effects of war in the novel to reinforce his pessimistic view of human nature. At the end of the novel, Golding leaves the reader with an image of a war ship, which is one of the many traces of war in the novel. If the reader examines the opening of the story, there are references to a war going on in the world, such as Piggys mention of the atomic bomb: Not them. Didnt you hear what the pilot said? About the atomic bomb? Theyre all dead(Golding 20). The reader discovers that the boys are stranded on the island because of the war. Besides that, another trace of the war is the dead parachutist. The boys mistake the dead parachutist for the beast. Ironically, the dead parachutist is the beast in the sense that he is connected to the war going on in the world outside and the beast is attributed to the evil in human nature. Even the boys have their very own war on the island. Therefore, the island could represent a microcosm of the outside world. Now, we return to the image of the war ship. The arrival of the ship allows the boys to be rescued. However, the ship only serves to remind the reader that although the boys are rescued, they are taken back to a war-torn world. After experiencing one war, the boys are being taken to another. The circle of destruction continues. To sum everything up, Golding effectively uses the main characters, especially at the ending, to prove that humans are more evil than good. The last page of the novel has one last scene of Ralph which summarizes the main themes of the novel. From his experience on the island, he is no longer an innocent child as he has been exposed to the evil nature of human beings and human savagery:And in the middle of them, with filthy body, matted hair, and unwiped nose, Ralph wept for the end of innocence, the darkness of mans heart, and the fall through the air of the true, wise friend called Piggy(Golding 248). Works citedGolding, William. Lord of the Flies. London: Faber and Faber, 1996.

Saturday, September 14, 2019

Air New Zealand Essay

Air New Zealand began as Tasman Empire Airways Limited which from 1940 has been operating Short Empire flying boats on trans-Tasman routes. Tasman Empire Airways Limited has operated flights in world war II weekly from Auckland to Sydney and also added Fiji and Wellington to its route. In 1953 New Zealand and Australian governments purchased 50% stakes in Tasman Empire Airways Limited and the airline ended flying boat operations in favor of propeller and turboprop airliners by 1960. With the introduction of the DC-8 in 1965, Tasman Empire Airways Limited became Air New Zealand—the New Zealand government purchased Australia’s 50% stake in the carrier. In 1978, the domestic airline National Airways Corporation and its subsidiary Safe Air were merged into Air New Zealand to form a single national airline, further expanding the carrier’s operations. As a result, NAC’s Boeing 737 and Fokker F27 aircraft joined Air New Zealand’s fleet alongside its DC-8 and DC-10 airliners. In 1981, Air New Zealand introduced its first Boeing 747 airliner, and a year later initiated service to London, United Kingdom. 1985 saw the introduction of Boeing 767-200ER airliners to fill the large size gap between the Boeing 737 and 747. In 1989 the airline was privatized with a sale to a consortium headed by Brielle Investments Ltd. The New Zealand air transport market underwent deregulation in 1990, prompting Air New Zealand to acquire a 50% stake in Ansett Australia in 1995. PART A- TASK 1 Outcome 1- assess the potential for market segmentation A) Resource implications: We urge the Advisory Group to consider the human resource implications for these employees and the consequent impact any restructuring consultation has on their morale and productivity. HRINZ (Human Resource Institution of New Zealand) is the professional organization for people who are interested or involved in the management and development of human resources in the workplace. HRINZ (Human Resource Institution of New Zealand) represents the interests of individual members only. B) Understanding and meeting customer needs: They meet every requirement of the customer travelling in air new Zealand. They provide every kind of facility to the customers and fulfill the needs and demands of people. C) Identification of competitor activates: The following is a list of airlines,  other than Air New Zealand, who have joined the domestic air travel market in New Zealand over the last 20 years: Ansett New Zealand Kiwi Air Freedom Air Origin Pacific Jet Connect D) Evaluation of market performance: There are some kind of problems with air new Zealand like people feel like food is not proper but now they have evaluated the things. They provide better service to the customers and they are happy. E) Segment viability and attractiveness: Air New Zealand topped eight of the ten attractiveness categories in national airline, which offers the best salary, career progression and work-life balance opportunities, as well as quality training and strong management. Air New Zealand was rated well in the study, which assessed organizations perceived attractiveness amongst the country’s working and non working population. In 2012, Air New Zealand took out the top spot for strong management, interesting job content, pleasant working atmosphere, and salary and employee benefits, and was also noted for providing good training for its employees. PART B- TASK 2 Outcome 2- apply market segmentation processes 2. Profile the segmentation A) Geographic segmentation: Geographic Segmentation calls for dividing the market into different geographical units such as nations, regions, provinces, parishes, cities, or even neighborhoods. A company may decide to operate in one or a few geographical areas, or to operate in all areas but pay attention to geographical differences in needs and wants. World region or country: Europe, Spain, Africa, Ivory Coast, Middle East, Qatar, North America, Canada Country region: East Asia, South Asia, North Asia City size: Under 5,000; 5,000-20,000; 20,000-50,000; 50,000-100,000; 100,000-250,000; 250,000- 500,000; 500,000-1,000,000; 1,000,000-4,000,000; over 4,000,000 Density: Urban, suburban, exurban, rural Climate: Northern, southern B) Demographic segmentation: Demographic Segmentation divides the market into groups based on variables such as age, gender, family size, family life cycle, income, occupation, education, religion, race, and nationality. Age Under: 20-34; 35-49; 50-64; 65+ Gender: Male, Female Family size: 1-2; 3-4; 5+ Family life cycle: Young, single, married with no children, married with children, single parents, unmarried couples, older, married, no children under 18 or older, single, other Income: Under â‚ ¬ 20,000; â‚ ¬ 20,000-â‚ ¬ 30,000; â‚ ¬ 30,000-â‚ ¬ 50,000; â‚ ¬ 50,000-â‚ ¬ 100,000; â‚ ¬ 100,000-â‚ ¬ 250,000; â‚ ¬ 250,000 and over Occupation: Professional and technical, managers, officials, and proprietors; clerical; sales; craftspeople; supervisors; farmers; retired; students; homemakers; unemployed Education: Primary School or less, some secondary school, secondary school graduate, some college, college graduate Religion: Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, other Race: Asian, Hispanic, Black, White Nationality: British, Swiss, Spanish French, German, Italian, Japanese C) Psychographic segmentation: Psychographic Segmentation divides buyers into different groups based on social class, lifestyle, or personality characteristics. People in the same demographic group can have very different psychographic profiles. Social class: Lower lowers; upper lowers; working class; middle class; upper middles; lower uppers; upper uppers Lifestyle: Achievers; strivers; survivors Personality: Compulsive; gregarious; authoritarian; ambitious D) Behaviour segmentation: Behavioral Segmentation divides buyers into groups based on their knowledge, attitudes, uses, or responses to a product or service Many marketers believe that behavior variables are the best  starting point for building market segments. Occasions: Regular occasion; special occasion; holiday; seasonal Benefits: Quality; service; economy; convenience; speed User status: Nonuser; ex-user; potential user; first-time user; regular user User rates: Light user; medium user; heavy user Loyalty status: None; medium; strong; absolute Readiness stage: unaware; aware; informed; interested; desirous; intending to buy Attitude toward product: Enthusiastic; positive; indifferent; negative; hostile 3. Evaluation on segment potential for following A) Product usage and potential: they product used in air New Zealand are of very good quality. If you’re booked to travel in Economy on a 777-300 long-haul international service, you can choose to upgrade to our Skycouchâ„ ¢ with this upgrade product option. It is important that you request your product upgrade on the website for the currency you used to purchase your flights. For bookings paid in Euros, please use our Continental European website, www.airnewzealand.eu, to upgrade the products in your booking. B) Competition: Due to poor industry returns, the airline industry is fiercely competitive. In the long-haul market, Air NZ is exposed to both direct competition, as well as competition from different airline alliances (West, 2009). Comparatively, competition in the long-haul market isles intense than short-haul and domestic markets due to the lack of substitutes as well as increased brand identity. Additionally, competitive pressure in the long-haul market is somewhat all evicted as a result of codeshare alliance agreements. C) Segment attractiveness: There can be no greater vote of confidence in the growth potential of the airline, and of the attractiveness of New Zealand as an international destination, than expanding and upgrading our fleet. D) Organizational objectives and resources: Key goals are maximize the overall Group return on capital employed , Bring diversity and balance to the Group’s earning streams , Take full advantage of the Group’s competencies in ma rkets where we have influence. PART C- TASK 3 Outcome 3- Determine target market and positioning strategy 4. Select one that is suitable and why other strategies are not suitable. A) Undifferentiated marketing- An undifferentiated targeting strategy is used when a company decides to communicate the benefits of its product by sending the same promotional message to everyone. For an undifferentiated strategy to be successful, the company’s product must be readily available and affordable and must provide the same benefits to all consumers. Very few companies with consumer products meet these criteria. B) Differentiated marketing-Differentiated product markets are those in which the product offering of suppliers varies to some degree and in which buyers make their purchase decision on the basis of product characteristics as well as price. In such a market, suppliers’ products are imperfect substitutes for one another and less close substitutes impose a lesser competitive constraint than others. C) concentrated marketing-A concentrated marketing strategy is targeted to one specific market segment or audience. For example, a company might market a product specifically for teenage girls, or a retailer might market his business to residents in a specific town. Concentrated marketing strategies are often geared for smaller groups of people, because they are designed to appeal to a specific segment. 5. Justify strategy in terms of organizational marketing objectives A) Sales- By selling the Product to the purchaser, Air NZ does not guarantee any freight services. Any such services must be arranged and paid for with Air NZ separately and will be subject to Air NZ’s Conditions of Carriage – Cargo which can be viewed at Conditions of Carriage Cargo International. Air NZ does not guarantee that the Product will meet Air NZ’s cage requirements (such as fleet hold size and / or capacity on any particular flight), or IATA requirements, for cargo or baggage on any da te in the future on which the purchaser wishes to use the Product for carriage of any animal, on Air NZ or any other carrier. The current requirements can be found at Travelling with Pets. B) Attitude: As a final variable to the behavioural segmentation is attitude toward a product. People can be divided into segments based on whether they have an enthusiastic, positive, indifferent, negative or hostile attitude toward a product. By considering the customers’ attitudes toward a brand or product the company will get a wide-ranging view of the market and its segments C) Revenue- Air New Zealand has refreshed its core strategy to drive  sustainable, profitable growth across the Air New Zealand Group. Optimise your career in this opportunity to create value at the core where key business decisions and plans impact shareholders’ value and deliver to the growth strategy. Lead and develop the long term strategy and maximise revenue growth and performance and manage the Ancillary Revenue Team. You will develop a long term strategy for ancillary revenue that maximises revenue growth opportunities and delivers product enhancements that customers value. As well as defining annual roadmaps for ancillary product development that deliver the strategy. You will also lead the tactical performance management of ancillary revenue performance process across multiple sales regions and channels. D) Organizational goals- Air New Zealand Limited is an international and domestic airline group that is publicly listed on both the New Zealand Stock Exchange (ticker: AIR) and Australian Stock Exchange (ticker: AIZ). We are principally involved in providing air passenger and cargo transport services to, from and within New Zealand. Air New Zealand directly serves 51 cities in 13 countries (including 26 destinations within New Zealand). The most recent additions to the route network include direct flights to Adelaide, San Francisco, Shanghai, Vancouver and Beijing. In the financial year to June 30, 2008, we carried almost 13.2 million passengers Flights range from a 25 minute Wellington to Blenheim trip, to a 14 hour, 11,571 km flight from Vancouver to Auckland. Air New Zealand is a member of the Star Alliance, the world’s largest multi-national alliance, providing access to 965 airports in 162 countries. E) Awareness-New Zealand’s brand awareness is flying high following recent wins for best image and number one dream holiday destination. In April, both UK and India travellers voted New Zealand number one dream holiday destination in Trip Advisor’s bi-annual Trip Barometer study, with 33 per cent of Indian travellers voting for New Zealand and nearly seven out of ten respondents saying they planned to travel abroad in 2014 to destinations including New Zealand 6. Establish positioning variables of market segments A) Usage and users- The usage rate segmentation divides the customers  according to how much they use a product. They are divided into groups of non-users, light, medium and heavy product users and companies often seek to target one heavy user rather than several light users . This is due to the fact that the heavy users constitute a small percentage of the market but account for a high percentage of the total buying .Thus a company should seek to adapt their marketing strategy according to these customers B) Product class- health and safety in employment act- safeguarding passenger and airline staff safety. Ensure best standard food for people. C) Competition- Air New Zealand’s low-cost operator, Freedom Air was established in 1995 in response to the launch of Kiwi Air (see above). The airline operates services from New Zealand to Australia and Fiji, and briefly operated on the main-trunk domestic routes.On September 6, 2007, Air New Zealand announced it was folding Freedom Air into the main airline, pointing to changes in the market, and the fact that there was little difference in consumer pricing between the two airlines. D) Lifestyle factors-Lifestyle and environment affect health and are shaped by socio-economic factors. The material circumstances of people’s lives and the behavioural choices they make are influenced by things like income, employment status and education. E) Consumer needs and benefits- following is the example for consumer needs and benefits: Delivering baggage on time: Air New Zealand will make every effort to ensure your bags arrive at your destination on schedule. Despite all care being taken, baggage sorting systems are complex and involve both human and mechanical interaction which sometimes results in baggage being delayed. In the event that your baggage is delayed, Air New Zealand will endeavour to have it returned to you within 24 hours of receiving your written missing baggage claim. We will provide you with an amenity kit on request and if we are not able to return your bags within 24 hours, authorise limited emergency expenses to be issued to you. PART D- TASK 4 Outcome 4- Identify, research and evaluate opportunities for business development 7. Implications for marketing strategies for each of organizational market The following are some implications for marketing a New strategy for new times b Segment and decide c Look at distribution channels d Help the consumer- teach, train, comfort and reassure e Communication f Find new pastures, Keep permanent hand on pulse of consumer 8. Monitoring mechanism for market positioning strategies to strategic marketing plans. Air New Zealand target to provide best service to the customers with unique and refresh kiwi way. Air New Zealand challenges with finding forward the thinking ways to engage and provide services to the customers. Air New Zealand and UK sought out new styles top use email to focus on customer relationship and their feedback to their unique services. Air NZ welcomes this approach. It is a much needed departure from the artificial distinctions previously drawn between â€Å"aeronautical† and â€Å"non-aeronautical† in respect of an airport’s business. There is widespread international acceptance of airports’ market power in operations such as car parking, retail space in the terminal, and taxi access to airports. Customers just loved the all facilities available for them at air new Zealand and the unique service provided to the customer during their journey. They have online support when we have any enquiries regarding their services and all about the journey. If any complaints air new Zealand committed to meet customers’ expectations and make customers to have an amazing journey with them. Air new Zealand dedicated to reach a goal of zero complaints across their business.