Elements of Western History since 1500 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Elements of Western History since 1500 - Essay Example How did the effects of Absolutism and the Enlightenment influence and impact the French Revolution? Absolutism refers to the fact that the ruling class of a nation us not held accountable by the people for their actions (Schwab & Jeanneney 229). In the case of France in the 1600s and the 1700s, this was the case because the ruling class had formed an elite social structure around the monarchy and royal family of the country. This group practiced what is popularly known as oligopoly where this small group of people in the French society controlled all the wealth and power of the nation. The common citizens of France lived under harsh conditions because they had no rights to question or go against the rules and principles of the ruling class. Consequently, the ruling class become more distant from the citizens. Also, due to the fact that the ruling class were seldom questioned of their actions and decisions, there was a trend of inefficiency and corruption in the control of state resou rces and this affected the poor in France more. This caused the masses in France, who were most affected by the inefficiencies of the ruling class to seek intervention and change. Enlightenment refers to a a trend where scholars and other influential citizens in Sixteenth and Seventh Century Europe sought to question existing trends in the society and rationalize the need for new methods (Wilson & Reill 3). In the case of France, scholars like Voltaire, Montesquieu and D'Holbech sought the â€Å"massive salvation of the people† through seeking accountability amongst the ruling class through a constitution, equal rights and egalitarianism and the fair use of scientific methods in ensuring efficiency and a better quality of life. This campaign was accepted by the masses in France and this played a major role in building the consciousness and stirring up a general dissatisfaction and action against the French Monarch and the ruling class. This became the genesis of the French Re volution which sought to destroy the dominance of the ruling class in France and establish a system of equality and the promotion of the welfare of people in the country. Question 2 The differences between constitutional monarchy and absolutist monarchy and how it was established in England and France before, during the 1600s and 1700s. A constitutional monarchy is one that derives its power legitimately through the people and there is a law that spells out the rights and responsibilities of the ruler and the ruled (Wilson & Riell 3). On the other hand, an absolute monarchy is one where the power of the rulers is deemed to emanate from some special attributes or qualities of the monarchs (Wilson & Riell 3). In the case of Medieval Europe, the most popular attribute that supported absolute monarchies was the divine backing of the royal government, confirmed by the earthly powers of the Catholic Church. England practiced a constitutional monarchy that can be traced through the evoluti on of the the kingdom and its ruling structures. Martland (199) identifies that the British monarchy had simultaneously sought to develop three arms of government since the Norman conquests. This is evident by the fact that the Crown sought to codify the common legal systems of England right after the conquest in the 1200s. This became the foundation for a legal system that was upheld above the King of England and it became the regulatory force of the nation and spelt out the rights and responsibilities of the rulers and the ruled by the 1600s. The second aspect of the English monarchy is the fact that the king, since the 14th Century had a body of sworn advisers who examined every ordinance and pardon of the king before it was passed into law. The third element was the representation of the people of England through a constituted parliament that represented the concerns of the nobles as well as the commoners in a national discourse. These three arms formed some kind of

Students Overcoming The Odds Essay Example for Free

Students Overcoming The Odds Essay Needs Assessment and Program Planning A comprehensive study found that students from low-income backgrounds often score low in college entrance exams.   A solution has been introduced called, Students Overcoming The Odds or SOTO.   This program is designed to tutor low-income students toward greater success in the SAT/ACT entrance exams while potentially providing greater opportunity for obtaining scholarships.   The program will be conducted through the recruitment of volunteers to tutor these students to greater success. Job Development and Design   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Permission has been attained to conduct tutoring sessions at local libraries.    The cost for use of these spaces is none.   Local civic leagues have agreed to donate SAT/ACT booklets to students at no cost.   A similar organization has agreed to pay the cost for these students to take the necessary exams.  Ã‚  Ã‚   There should be no more than 5 students during a tutoring session.   Each tutor shall choose a section of the exam they feel most confident in teaching.   In this way students can be introduced to different instructional designs and methods. Recruitment   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   One means of recruitment is through local universities, either with active or retired professors.   These professionals having dedicated their careers to higher education would be ideal candidates for tutoring sessions.   Another means of recruitment is through the community itself.   Unquestionably, education is key in individuals building a better life for themselves and thus returning knowledge to the community. Interviewing and Matching   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Without question background checks will be conducted.   The expertise of the volunteers, will be placed in their area of strength to tutor students.   A teaching background in routine classroom environments is strongly desired and encouraged. Orientation and Training   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Diversity will be a focus during orientation.   This idea will be furthered during training.   Sensitivity to the students backgrounds will be emphasized.   If necessary, as the ACT/SAT tests change, refresher courses will be provided. Supervision and Management   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Volunteers should know their role clearly, which is to guide these students toward success.   Supervision and management are to guide and encourage volunteers to the best of their ability.   A key to managing volunteers is reminding them of their sheer necessity to the program, without volunteers there would be no program. Recognition   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   A kind word of encouragement is always welcome to volunteers and staff alike.   A suggestion would be recognizing a volunteer from each division on, at the least, a quarterly basis.   This can be done through a special thank you during a planning meeting.   As the program grows and success is realized larger rewards, such as gift certificates could be awarded.   Costs have been kept to an absolute minimum at this time and a budget for rewards needs to be integrated into the program. Evaluation   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Success of the students is likely the most valuable evaluation tool.   Another means to this could be peer evaluations as tutors instruct their students.   This method of evaluation is routine in most, if not every university. Liability/Risk Management   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Parents must sign a contract not holding SOTO liable for the failure of an exam.   Express permission should be given as to the beginning and end of tutor sessions, as well as location.   Should the student be over the age of 18, the student shall sign the same clause. Role of Staff   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The role of staff should be one of guidance and encouragement.   Volunteers do not have to make the sacrifices they do.   Staff should always be aware that among their most valuable assets are volunteers, the very people themselves that make up and support the program. References: Babbie, Earl. (2006). The Practice of Social Research.   Belmont, CA:   Thomson-Wadsworth.

Status Of English Language Education In China English Language Essay

Status Of English Language Education In China English Language Essay In today world, English language is widely used and the status of the language can viewed differently according to where it is utilized in several parts of the world. In some nations like the United Kingdom, the United States, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland and Australia, English is considered a native language. However, Singapore, Philippine, India, and Malaysia regard English as a second language whereas other countries including Greece, Russia, Poland, Thailand, Vietnam, and others view English a foreign language (Bray Kashrus, 1985, 1992 as cited in Zhang, Zhang 2008). As the language of communication in numerous fields, both developing and developed countries have adopted and used English language accordingly. China, one of those countries, has accepted and utilized English in diverse domains, so that they may properly develop their country and build more relationships with outside world or vice versa. According to Ford, 1988 Bickers, 1999 as cited in Zhang (2008), English language has entered into China in nineteenth century through trading between China and western nations, and the first country in western nations, which did the trading with China, was Portugal and then British. After China lost in the Opium war to British, Hong Kong was abandoned, and other territories were open for foreigners and traders. During the period, a number of foreigners, especially English people and British mission schools flew into China. Since then, English teaching/learning has gradually become popular for Chinese people. As stated previously, the object of topic of this literature review is to find out how status of English language is in fields of education, business and economy, and international relationship from 2000 to Present. II. Literature Review Status of English language in education in China Hui (2001, p. 128) expresses that English is the most widely taught foreign language in China. In some cities, English is taught from grade 5 and some from grade 3 while in rural places, children in junior and senior high schools are allowed to have English class. In the junior and senior, two types of English books are used in which the first one is called Band 1 and the second is Band 2. According to English Syllabus for Jonior High School, 2000 as cited in Hui (2001), in Band 1, students are encouraged to be familiar with vocabulary, reading, listening, writing, and speaking. In colleges and universities, English is compulsory subject, and students are asked to study through Band 1 to Band 6, and they should complete six specific requirements; for example, familiar 4000 words, acceptable pronunciation and intonation, reading, listening, writing, and speaking (intermediate level). Similarly, according to Zhongshi Yu (2003), English language is considered one of the needed languages in Chinese educational system. In 2001, the ministry of education of China announced that English shoud be taught from lower level to higher one. In the lower class, all children from grade three are instructed English language so that they may develop their English ability before they go to higher education. The ministry further declared that for universities and collegues, English has to be used as a medium of instruction for several subjects such as information technology, biotechnology, finance, foreign trade, economics and law because these subjects have interrelation with English language. Due to this plan, provincial education commissions accordingly start to set up schedules for teaching English in many universties and collegues in cities (South China Morning Post, 2001 as cited in Zhongshi Yu, 2003). To facilitate English teaching/learning, the materials including textboo ks, classroom facilities, and testing centers are gradually developed in order that both teachers and students may find it easy to use them in their study because they are created locally (Peoples Daily Online as cited in Zhongshi Yu, 2003). Additionally, in the period, not only publish schools promote English but private schools also help encourage Chinese students to study English. Equally, according to a study by Zhiwei (2007), in order to help modernize the country, ministry of Education of China has strenghtened the English language teaching/learning through primary school to university level. In primary level, English is taught since third grade; in middle school, it is instructed as a main subject as other subjects such as Chinese language and mathematics while at university level, all students are required to learn English. To build up Chinese teachers ability in English, the ministry of Education has sent them to English speaking countries like the United States and the United Kingdom to have more trainings in English as well as to invite the native English teachers to share their knowledge and experiences to Chinese teachers and students. In addition, the ministry has as well promoted researchers to conduct more studies to explore more effective language teaching/learning strategies. Zhiwei (2007) states that to help make easy English teaching/learning, the ministry have established some textbooks and materials, so that the students can use and self-study; for example, English 1-4 volume, Functional English 1-4 volume, and Practical English Grammar. Zhiwei claims that before sending to next class or admitting to enter a course, students are asked to take different types of tests based on their levels; for instance, (1) basic grade tests, and higher grade test are done for students who are in English department, (2) 4-6 grade English test, a test for university students, (3) PETS, a co-operative item between Chinese and British, a test for publish, and (4) English Self-study text is conducted two times per year (in April and in October) for those students who want to test their English ability. Similarly, Zhang (2008) states that English teaching/learning becomes more and more popular in China; hence, a number of Chinese learners start to acquire English, and most of them want to be near-like English speakers. Based on ELIC website, an organization of English Language Institute in China as cited in Zhang (2008), numerous native-English instructors, especially from the United States, are hired to teach English in Chinese universities across the country. The organization adds that the reasons China rent those teachers because they are viewed as good models, and are considered effective trainers who probably provide better English knowledge to Chinese students in terms of pronunciation and accent, effective strategies and techniques, teaching styles, and others. Pennycook, 1998 as cited in Zhang (2008) also emphasizes that English teaching in China is constructed as a superior language since knowing English is believed to have a better understanding of the world making English speakers not only to be better teachers but also to gain superior knowledge of world. Likewise, based on Zhang (2008), English language is the most-studied foreign language in many educational institutions in China. From primary schools to universities, English classes are given and every student is required to attend English class from middle school to unversity level. In middle schools, English is tutored as a basic course which is similar to mathematics, sciences and Chinese language while in university level, English language is a compulory subject. Zhang (2008) emphasizes that university students has to successfully finish English course before graduating from the universities since they will use it in their workplace. So, if their ability in English cannot be qualified, they may not be employed. On the contrary, if their English ability is strong enough, they may be given a priority to work, especially in foreign companies. By the same token, according a study by Aimin Yan (2011), college English (CE) is highly recommended subject for undergraduate students in China. Their study was conducted with 20 graduates, from universtiy of Jinan in China, who have already possesed jobs for one or two years. The study shows that CE curriculum is a needed program in colleges because it provides a lot advantages to undergraduate students in their studies such as English for special purpose and billingual course as well as to gain advantages in workplace. The study also shows that graduate candicats need to have enough competence in English in order to be qualified for various positions in job market. In China, the most common jobs available are in businesses and in government organizations, and to be qualified for the job market, applicants need to make sure that they can use English in locating information, translating documents, and creating and editing English, especially in oral communication. As a result, CE program in colleges needs to be strenghtened to instill students ability in English to fulfill the schools requirement and to meet job market. Status of English language in business and economy Zhongshi Yu (2003) raise that in China, English plays a very important role in doing business, particularly in international business. In international business, business men and women need to use English to communicate with other foreign business people. Most documents including non-formal and formal are written in English. According to a survey study by Pang Jixian et al, 2002 as cited in Zhongshi Yu (2003), he found that a number of business people in China mainly use English throught faxes and emails to contact their business partners instead of using Chinese language. More importantly, English is officially used in joint venture contracts and in other agreements. The study also found that Chinese people work in the international companies are given English names, so that their managers can easily address them. Furthermore, English names are not only given to employees but they are also written on logoes of many international business; for example, Mcdonalds, KFC, Pizza Hut, Cr oss Pizza, China Telecom, China Mobile, bank of China, agricultural bank of China, and commercail and industrial bank of China (Pang Jixian et al, 2002 as cited in Zhongshi Yu, 2003). Zhu (2008) asserts that due to development in a number of fields in China, business English is designed for higher educational institutions. Business English is a language used by people who work in business field, so selected words, expressions, grammatical structures are utilized in only business purposes. In China, English for business has its own characteristics, and English for business program allows the learners to build up English language skill and business management skill. According to Zhu (2008), English for business becomes an interest for a number of Chinese learners since it benefits a lot for their future. For that reason, business English program for undergraduate students was first run at Guangdong University of Foreign Studies. In the program, the learners who complete all requirement subjects are awarded to get BA degree in foreign language or in business management. Based on Zhu (2008), another reason that English for business gain more interest is due to an incr ease of globalization economy. Thus, National Education Department has designed English for business in most universities in China so that when the students graduate, they may easily get a job in business companies. Johnson, (2010) illustrates that to expand trade inside the country and with the world, China may need to adopt English language because it could serve such purposes. After registering as a member of WTO, numerous foreign investments-western nations and the United Stated-come to China to do businesses, and more Chinese investments oversea are, as well increased noticeably. Johnson (2010) asserts that trading within a location or with local people is not enough, so Chinese traders begin to trade with foreigners, especially with the United Stated because most famous and large manufacturers are under the control of the United Stated. In other words, the United Stated is a central part in which all products and goods from different parts of the world could traffic under their power. So, the official language for both speaking and written form is English. For this reason, Chinese traders need to improve their knowledge to English language because they might enlarge their trading either with Chinese people or with foreigners. Johnson, (2010) further raises that knowing English bring Chinese people to have better job and benefit. In other words, English is probably a bridge to well-paid job or gate to reach working world. A big example raised by Johnson (2010) is 2008 Beijing Olympic Game which could be considered a great opportunity for Chinese people. Considerable Chinese people who have English knowledge would make much money, even taxi drivers because a number of foreign visitors entered China. Since then, more and more Chinese people are interested in English because they may earn a lot of money for daily job as well as in the next consequent famous events (China daily as cited in Johnson, 2010). Wang (2011) emphasizes that English is regarded as a demanded foreign language by a lot of Chinese people because fo the current need in working fields. As known that China has attracted many foreign investments-companies, factories, restaurants, shops and others-to come to do business, particularly from the United States, and the United Kingdom. Hence, many Chinese people who have English knowledge are given priority to have job opportunity since in daily operation, Egnlish is used to communicate between employees and employers. Besides oral communication, written form in English through faxes, and emails are commonly used to contact one another within workplace or to other workplaces. More importantly, the legal documents such as contracts and other agreements are officially written in English, particularly in joint ventures, and agreements of exhanging products and services. According to Rugman and Collinson, 2006 as cited in Wang (2011), most management teams in international bus inesses use English to communicate with their employees within the company as well as with other companies. Rugman and Collinson, 2006 as cited in Wang (2011) also point out that there are two different levels in communications in international businesses in which first one refers to a communincation between two independent business whereas the second one refers to a communication occurs in multinational business. Status of English international relationship Hui (2001) points out that after setting up opening door policy, Chinese government has reinforced English so that the country could probably understand and communicate with the world. Since Chinese citizen has adopted and used English, it has helped bring China to world. Probably due to the policy with integration of English in Chinese policy system, China gets involved with the world through numerous works with the United States. In addition, many foreign tourists visit China creating stronger relationship with the world. Hui (2001) further states that Chinese civil service and ministers go oversea to further their education in English as the time as more and more students get scholarship to continue their study at English speaking countries like the United State and Australia. Also, Gil Adamson (2004) state that China has become more and more popular in the world; therefore, more connections between China and other countries have to be built up gradually. And to help build up the connections and to make those nations understand China or vice versa, Chinese government possibly need to use English because it is an international language. Most Chinese documents, especially official documents from political leaders need to translate into English in order that other goverments find it easily to communicate. Based on Hung, 2002 as cited in Gil Adamson (2004), Chinese government has established Foreign Language Bureau and Foreign Language Press to help facilitate English language and translate the governments view to the rest of the world in which China has a connection with. Sun, 1999 as cited in Zhang (2008) raises that because of arrival of English, Chinese government could build up its prestige in international events which lift up China to the world. Zhang (2008) emphasizes that English becomes Chinese students passports for a better life. Chinese people who have English knowledge may find it easier to in foreign events or countries rather that those who do not know it. Bakhtin, 1984 as cited in Zhang (2008) demonstrates that to develop its connections through the world, Chinese government encourage all ministries to improve its own ability in English. Bakhtin, 1984 as cited in Zhang (2008) further explains that knowing English might provide Chinese people with good way to obtain benefits, social position and image. According to Zhang Zhang (2008), English teaching in China was reduced due to a cold war in 1950s and 1960s between American and Soviet. On the other hand, English returns to China with high speed due to an open-door policy created by Deng Xiaoping who wants China to be modernized with the world. Virtue of this, Chinese government has rebuilt a diplomatic relationship with the United States. For this reason, a number of American teachers, students, and scholars travel to China as well as other foreigners come to visit and reside in China. Because of better connections between China and the United States, China government has sent a few politicians to the United States or vice versa in order that they could exchange their concepts and learn each other. Lam, 1999 as cited in Zhang (2008) states that China government rents considerable English experts to help instill Chinese officials so that they may work effectively in jobs because they works as the countrys representatives Similarly, Song (2009) indicates that due to its open-up policy, China becomes an interesting nation attracted by the world. From time to time, China plays more important role in the world in fields of politics, economy, culture, and diplomatic. A few famous events; for example, 2008 Olympic Games, Shanghai World exhibition, and Boao Foru are consequently held in China impressing millions of people around the globe. Hence, to make China easily connect the rest of world or vice versa, Chinese people, particularly the ones who work in the government need to have English knowledge. Thus, English teaching/learning in China starts from low level (elementary) up to higher one (university level). Song (2009) reveals that due to department of English of Nanjing University, western cultures and ideas, and Chinese cultures and ideas are promoted in teaching/learning English courses. In other words, Chinese learners are encouraged to acquire both westerns and Chinas philosophy and culture at the same time so that the learners can use English expressions to substitute Chinese ones when there are not any equivalence to English or vice versa. Likewise, based on Jiang (2011), English is considered a golden award for Chinese people which could promote Chinas prestige and image in many international connections after China is registered to be a member of Word Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001. The international connection between China and the world is gradually accelerating as soon as appearance of English language in China. Through the connection, a few famous events such as international exhibitions, and Olympic Games celebrating in China, attract millions of people around the world to visit China. According to Li Li, a vice president of New Orient as cited in Jiang (2011) declares that the influence of those events can give China more power as well as prestige to develop the country faster. Onec again, because more and more Chinese people gain more English competence, their connections with the rest of world is getting better and better. In the same way, Su (2011) indicates that as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), China tries its best to take adantages of this chance to meet challenges. China has promoted and accelerated both products and human resources in order to compete with other nations. To export more products to the world, more companies and factories have been established, and run the companies and factories, human resources has been improved by sending them to well-known nations such as the United States, and the United Kingdom, so that they can develop their technological and English skills. Furthermore, to help build up their students knowledge in English, China has to reinforce billingual education. Student are requiresd to accomplish English since they have to face a plenty of international situations. Another benefit that China obtain after being WTOs member is international relation. English not only brings China to compete with other nations in terms enonomy but it also allows China to have closely relationship with the world, specially with the United States. Su (2011) explain that as English serves as a variety of benefits for Chinese people and its society, China is having more willingness and power to push better national image in internationa l arena and to encourage their students to step forward on ladder to reach the world of prestige. III. Conclusion According to mentioned above, status of English language may plays important roles in education, business and economy, and international connection. To some extent, arrival of English may also be one of the reasons that help develop and improve in China. It is non-avoidable thing for Chinese people to associate with others and to adopt the age of technology; as a result, it needs to accept English since it is a language of technology. Therefore, Chinese governments has emerged English education to help build up Chinese students ability in English from lower levels up to higher levels. Besides the importance of English in education, it also plays as a main role in doing business, especially in international businesses and international relationship. However, Jiang (2011) states that while English may profit Chinese people and its society, the negative impact probably come to Chinese people and its language, too. Professor Ma and professor Pen as cited in Jiang (2011, p. 198) emphasizes that there is a important connection between language and national security and English fashion in china is not a good phenomenon for the development of national language security, which is the component of national sovereignty. The fast spread of English language in China will more or less ruin Chinese language since many Chinese students pay less attention on their own language. According to my understanding, I would say that what China does to its country is properly right because it brings the development, prestige as well as status to the country. However, it may not be an appropriate idea to highly promote English without seeing the bad influence to the society. The more China tries to give value to English for their development; the bad impact will come to damage Chinese Language. As we know that, Chinese language is widely spoken and used if comparing to English. A number of Chinese people are around the world doing business, so its language is used accordingly. Nonetheless, if English is supported Chinese citizen, a number of next generations will more or less forget his or her own language (Chinese language) from time to time. Based on my point of view, Chinese government should reduce the image of English by emerging Chinese language wherever English is. Chinese language should be promoted to write in research articles and publish in international journals, Chinese governments should raise awareness that Chinese language needed to be preserved in order to defend its reputation, and last but not least, Chinese government should limit the number of English learning at all educational system.

Attitudes Towards Animals In N :: essays research papers fc

Attitudes Towards Animals in Neolithic and Assyrian Times Animals have been viewed differently by different cultures. This is evident when comparing the wall painting of a deer hunt from the Neolithic period (Gardner, 38) and the reliefs of Ashurbanipal hunting lions and the dying lions from the Assyrian dominated period of the ancient near east (Gardner, 56). The deer hunt scene, painted at Catal Huyuk c. 5750 BC, depicts several humans hunting two large deer and one small deer. The reliefs, sculpted at Nineveh c. 650 BC, consist of King Ashurbanipal sitting in a chariot and shooting several lions with his bow and arrow, and a close-up view of a dying lioness that has been shot three times by arrows but is still trying to move. The deer hunt scene shows that prehistoric people had more respect for animals than the Assyrian people did partly because the Neolithic people felt that magic was needed to help with their hunting. The two works also show that there was a large difference in the technology of these two cultures. In addition the Ass yrians would sometimes hunt for sport, while the Neolithic people would hunt only out of necessity for food. The deer hunt scene shows the animals as being stronger than humans, while the lion hunt scene shows the animals as being weak as compared to King Ashurbanipal. The two adult deer are much larger than any of the humans in the first scene. Humans are usually slightly taller than most deer, but here the deer are drawn about twice as tall as the humans. It also takes several humans with weapons to hunt the deer. In the lion scene, all of the lions have been killed or injured by arrows. The only person in the scene with a bow and arrows is King Ashurbanipal. It is apparent that he has shot all of the lions himself, showing his superior strength over the lions. In prehistoric times, cave paintings of hunting scenes served magical purposes: â€Å"By confining them (animals) to the surface of their cave walls, the prehistoric hunters may have believed that they were bringing the animals under their control† (Gardner, 28). Also, the humans on the left of the wall painting don’t seem to be directly involved in the hunt, as the deer are on the right side. It appears that they are doing some sort of dance, possibly a magical dance to help the hunters.

McBride Financial Marketing Plan Essay

McBride Financial is a fast growing organization with plans to open a total eight offices located in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, South and North Dakota. Services will specialize in providing financial mortgage assistance to first time buyers, retirees, professionals, families and individuals with credit problems. McBride Financial provides customers with informative information without any hidden cost. Breakdown of services and rates are thoroughly explained with every home purchase. Applications are processed within one business day. Marketing Plan The development of McBride Financials marketing plan will require various forms of market research. The three major groups McBride will focus on will be first time buyers, buyers with credit problems, and retires purchasing primary or secondary homes. Market research will be conducted through the collection of surveys, contact methods, marketing intelligence and internal data. Advertising will consist of promotional television, radio, newspaper, and internet ads that appeal to specific marketing groups. Local realtors will be used for advertising purchases as well. Marketing strategies will be developed that establish McBride Financial as the leader in low cost mortgage services. Online Research Most consumers have access to the internet; as a result McBride Financial will conduct online surveys to reach a broad focus group. â€Å"Online research accounts for 8% of all spending on quantitative marketing research, and most industry insiders predict healthy growth† (Armstoring & Kotler, 2005). Cost associated with online research is minimal and will help McBride Financial meet budget demands. The use of online surveys will be implemented to gain a better perspective of consumer needs. Surveys will consist of 25 questions related to home purchasing and financial planning. Surveys will be forward to the marketing department for further analysis and plan development. Media Advertising McBride Financial currently has plans to air a radio ad which informs consumers of the company low cost special financing offers. McBride Financial has included a promotional pamphlet that will be available at airports, store newsstands and realty offices. In addition, an ad has been printed in newspapers nationwide. The development of McBride Financials television ad is currently in the works and will began broadcasting later this month. McBride Financial has joint-ventured with Realtor.com in order to reach our expanding consumer based. â€Å"Realtor.com is the largest real estate database of homes for sale and the official site of the National Association of Realtors; real estate listings, realtors, mortgage rates, home buying help and much more can be accessed through the website†. Financial calculators, investing tips, lender comparison, and many other services can be access through relator.com. Links to McBride Financial can be found under the mortgage lenders link. Internet Marketing Part of the McBride Financials advertising plan will focus on internet advertising through the company’s website. In order to expand marketing efforts, McBride Financial will develop and maintain an interactive website that provides consumers with information regarding the latest rate changes and tax breaks. Internet advertising makes use of banner ads, search engines, email adverting, and paid search terms. â€Å"Internet advertising involves bringing users to a web site or generating traffic; the web site itself may consist primarily of a simple presentation of information about a company, its products and services† (Magee, N.D.) Target Market McBride Financial will focus their lending services toward three major groups. All consumers are encouraged to use McBride Financial as a qualified mortgage lender. First Time Buyers Purchasing a new home can be overwhelming for many first time buyers. McBride Financial service will work closely with first time buyers to ensure customers receive the best available rates and the largest tax breaks. McBride Financial offers services to fit all first time buyer needs: Credit reports, appraisals, home inspections and easy approval can be complete by filling a simple application. Credit Problems McBride Financial offers specialized services for clients with credit problems. McBride Financial offers services for a fixed rate of $1500 dollars. Our rate is significantly lower than our competitors and accommodates consumers with less than perfect credit; preapproval is quick and easy. Retirees Purchasing the perfect vacation home can be made easy due to McBride Financials state of the art property search. Home buyers can quickly lock-in prime rates and feel assured their rates will not change. Advanced information systems ensures the security and privacy of all customers are highly maintained. Conclusion Providing consumers with competitive mortgage lending requires effective advertising and a strategic marketing plan. McBride will meet the demands of consumers by providing the lowest rates available for qualified borrowers. Retirees, first time buyers and clients with credit problems will benefit from McBride Financial services. Marketing strategies will be employed to allow consumers to apply line of credit. McBride will be the leader in lost cost mortgage services.

Mason

Mason Gupte English 10118 Paper 3 The recreational use of cannabis should remain illegal in the United States of America. Cannabis, or marijuana, is a highly dangerous and addictive drug that not only leads to physical harm, but is a drug that if legalized, would inadvertently encourage the use of drugs among teenagers and adults all across the country. In recent years, the country has witnessed an increase in popularity in what is known as â€Å"medical† marijuana.Although it’s viewed today as a medicine and something that is offered to help patients in America, the positive aura being created around the drug is something that should be considered extremely alarming. The more people become accustomed to the idea of marijuana being acceptable, the more likely it becomes that a serious push for the narcotic to become legal could happen. Legalizing marijuana for recreational purposes would be detrimental for numerous reasons.Scientists have discovered enough about the act ive chemical in marijuana called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, to allow us to understand that is a substance that should not be tampered with. When a person burns marijuana and starts to inhale the smoke, the THC in the plant quickly passes from their lungs into their bloodstream, which transports the chemical to the brain and other organs throughout the body. THC acts upon specific parts of your brain, called cannabinoid receptors, which then triggers a series of cell-based reactions that lead to the dangerous â€Å"high† that user will experience (www.DrugAbuse. Gov). These receptors are found in parts of the brain that affect pleasure, memory, thinking, concentrating, sensory, coordinated movement and time perception. While a user is under the influence of marijuana, they are prone to chronic overeating and tend to show little to zero effort in any activity they attempt. The use of marijuana can also lead to distorted perceptions, impairments, difficulty solving pr oblems, and further complicate the person’s ability to learn new things and hold memories.Research has shown that, in chronic marijuana users, the drug’s adverse impact on the subjects learning and memory can last up to days or weeks after that person has allowed the effects to wear off (www. DrugAbuse. gov). The majority of marijuana users who are asked about their habit will respond with something like, â€Å"There’s nothing wrong with it. † However, if studied closely and observed for a period of time, it is no challenge for one to see that the effects are not just physical.The mental harm one will encounter when they inhale the smoke is something that is not just temporary, users can and will suffer long-term from the drug’s effects. This is one clear reason why medical marijuana is a contradiction to what is healthy and beneficial to patients. Doctors and patients will claim that it is the only way to cope with diseases in particular cases, ho wever, harming oneself does not help cope with anything in the long run.Although research details for the long-term effects of marijuana haven’t been completely ironed out, scientists can see that there are consistent similarities between two users who have used the drug their entire life. A person that smokes the plant for a large amount of time consistently will observe a noticeable connection between that and their impaired cognitive functioning. A person who does not use the drug will notice less of a fog in their cognitive functioning, where as a marijuana user who has experimented with the drug since a young age will have trouble thinking of things quite often.Another troubling fact about cannabis is that when used in the long-term, can lead to physical addiction. Estimates from research suggest that roughly nine percent of all marijuana users become addicted to the drug; this number is likely to increase for those who start young or are daily users (www. DrugAbuse. Gov ). People who were daily marijuana smokers and attempted to quit, report that they have experienced withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, sleeplessness, trouble getting their appetite back, anxiety, drug-craving, and depression.All of these symptoms are likely to begin within the first one to two days of quitting smoking. Numerous studies have shown that there is a direct correlation between the long-term use of cannabis and increased anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. However, at this time, it is not clear whether marijuana use causes mental problems, exacerbates them, or reflects an attempt to self-medicate symptoms already in existence (www. DrugAbuse. Gov). What is clear is that high doses of marijuana can lead to psychotic reactions within the subject; also, use of the drug may trigger or lead to relapse of schizophrenia in vulnerable individuals.Other effects of smoking marijuana include issues with the heart such as increased likelihood of a heart attack as a result of an increased heart rate. Irregular heart rhythm, palpitations, and arrhythmias also are commonly observed negatives for marijuana users whether they’re frequent or occasional smokers. If one is greater in age or has cardiac vulnerabilities, the risk is much greater. The heart is not the only area of the chest impacted negatively by smoking marijuana, the lungs are forced to work much harder when marijuana is inhaled.Numerous studies have shown that the smoke created when marijuana is burnt contains 50-70 percent more carcinogens than what tobacco smoke holds (www. DrugAbuse. Gov). Since marijuana users typically inhale much deeper and hold the smoke in their lungs for a longer amount of time than tobacco smokers, they further increase their exposure to these carcinogens. Another dangerous thing one should keep an eye on is the fact that marijuana users show potentially cancerous growth in epithelial cells.The list of reasons why marijuana should remain illegal is a long, b ut concrete list and something everyone who has used the drug should be encouraged to look at. While it is currently legal within states for medicinal purposes, the government has done well by keeping this substance illegal as far as recreational use. Nothing good can or will ever come out of legalizing such a dangerous narcotic. Works Cited Page November 2010. Drug Facts: Marijuana. November 4th, 2012. http://www. drugabuse. gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana