The Academic Success Of Jacob Essay - 1613 Words

Introduction When considering how best to support the academic success of Jacob, a teacher must take into account his unique situation and exceptionalities. It’s obvious that Jacob is struggling on multiple levels, being an ESL student with ADHD who missed some key foundational skills by not attending 1st or 2nd grade. In order to aid his literary endeavors, a teacher will have to develop an individualized plan to meet his needs and overcome his challenges. Certain factors that a teacher should analyze include culture, the possibility of special education, Cultural Factors Culture can play a major role in one’s education, including their thoughts, feelings, and actions towards their school, their teacher, and themselves. It’s important to take into account cultural factors when considering how best to educate Jacob. â€Å"The influence of culture on beliefs about education, the value of education, and participation styles cannot be overestimated.† (M.S. Rosenberg, 2010) Depending on his culture, things such as eye contact with the teacher, peer collaboration, and parental participation can all vary and each of these factors do play a part in Jacob’s educational experience. How much pressure he or his parents put upon him to perform well academically can also be due to a cultural factor and can either negatively or positively affect Jacob’s motivation towards school and academic achievement. Some culture see peer collaboration as cheating and prefer a more traditional model ofShow MoreRelatedLife Chances Of Poor Children Essay1423 Words   |  6 Pageslife chances of poor children† (Jacob Ludwigs, 2009). In their article, Jacob and Ludwigs discuss several flaws among the educational system. For instance, schools in poverty are known to â€Å"lack the capacity to substantially improve student learning, independent of financial resources† ( Jacob Ludwigs, 2009). They went on to discuss the social context through which the school operates, adding that the family, neighborhood, and peer environments made it difficult for children to take full advantageRead MoreVideo Games and Academic Success At the Post-Secondary Level Essay1144 Words   |  5 Pagesrecreation but are also making headway in the academic world gearing more towards learning through play on the educational level. With a recent spike in popularity and availability video games have become somet hing of interest with academic scholars, teachers and concerned parents wondering how an increased exposure to video games will affect their students academic success. In theory, one would believe that recreational video games are detrimental to academic success but when video games are used for educationalRead MoreWe re Going On A Leaf Hunt1605 Words   |  7 Pages Observations: On October 15, 2015, I observed Jacob during a whole class lesson. 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To achieve this functional positioning â€Å"many students require therapeutic handling or dynamic positioning to normalize muscle tone and promote proper positioning(e.g., hips, trunk, shoulders) to place the student in a quality staticRead MoreEvaluating Strategies For Retaining Effective Teachers980 Words   |  4 Pagesgovernment expanded after The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) and heighten the pressure on schools to demonstrate student achievement (Smith, 2008), leaving schools more accountable to education success. The NCLB act demanded high qualification standards for teachers, but currently there is a shortage. Jacob (2007) describes the shortage as a number of effective teachers the district wants to employ is greater than effective teachers willing to work for given salary. Disadvantaged schools are unableRead MoreMy Senior Block Experience : John The Crier ( Who Claims Foul )1364 Words   |  6 Pagessenior block experience, I have been in three different classrooms, with many different students. Each student possessed unique qualities that have taught me better communication skills and relationship building. Three specific students were John, Jacob, and Justin (for the confidentiality of the students, I have changed their names). These students’ different behaviors have caused an effect on either their learning or social interactions. John The Crier (Who Claims Foul) John’s behavior moderatelyRead Moreâ€Å"Case Study-Big Changes for the Small Hospital†1500 Words   |  6 PagesTITLE BIG CHANGES FOR A SMALL HOSPITAL REVOLUTION BY A LEADER CASE GIST This case is story of big changes for a Small Hospital. Story is rounded around F .NICHOLAS JACOBS. He started work for small hospital named as Windber Medical center facility as a president. Firstly he was dread when he entered in new environment. Then he started to work under their culture. He was discussed with employees and community. Taken idea about people who are directly and indirectly involved with hospital. Then heRead Moreadderall advantage1447 Words   |  6 PagesDrug Abuse in College - New York Times Page 1 of 3 July 31, 2005 The Adderall Advantage By ANDREW JACOBS IT was finals week at Columbia University and Angela needed a miracle. Like many of her classmates, Angela, a bleary-eyed junior, had already pulled a pair of all-nighters to get through a paper on Finnegans Wake, a French test and an exam for her music humanities class. All that remained was a Latin American literature final, but as midnight approached, her stamina was beginningRead MoreExamples Of Physical Partnerships For Motivation1083 Words   |  5 Pagesby binge eating, often followed by deliberate vomiting and purging with laxatives. In the video, a pathologist says, Im very concerned about the images that we give our teenagers, the things that we teach our teenagers about how do they measure success, how do they measure their body images, how do they measure their self-esteem through their body image. Pathologists, see firsthand how eating disorders can ravage the body. Malnutrition and dehydration cause serious, even fatal damage to the liverRead MoreRelationship Between Intelligence And Success1850 Words   |  8 Pages23, 2015 The Relationship Between Intelligence and Success Many wonder what goes on in the minds of billionaires such as Warren Buffett and Bill Gates. There are a large amount successful people in the world, from the wealthybillionaires, to scientists, to movie stars. We may ask ourselves what allows them to achieve such success, and as we break down their paths to riches, we realize that there may be one key to achieving such success: intelligence. Most of these people who have achieved

Homeless Population in America Essay - 2680 Words

One of the most prominent social issues is that of the homeless population. According to Korge Furst, 24 percent of the homeless population are severely mentally ill, 20 percent are physically disabled, 19 percent are employed, 14 percent are victims of domestic violence, 14 percent are veterans, while 3 percent are HIV positive (Chp. 2.4, 2012). Although there are numerous programs and policies to eradicate homelessness, we still see that the numbers continue to rise. Essentially, social theories such as conflict, functionalist, and symbolic interactionist theories have been fundamental methods used to study and examine social issues like homelessness. Therefore, expanding on innovative methods and policies for the vulnerable†¦show more content†¦Furthermore, some interactional theorists would most likely point to the unwillingness with some employers to hire homeless individuals and may lack any academic or prior employment experience. This is more often than not a terrib le disappointment as well as discouragement for the lower economic status individuals and is one element that sometimes discourages numerous homeless people from even trying to pursue employment in the first place. Korgen tells us â€Å"The nature of our interactions with others determines how we see ourselves and our role in society. In turn, our actions are conditioned, though not determined, by the social situations in which we find ourselves â€Å"(Chp. 1.3, 2012). The third sociological theory that helps explain the homeless population is that of the Symbolic Interactionist. Korgen Furst state†¦ â€Å"Symbolic interactionist theory maintains that society is a social construct, continually created and recreated by humans interactions with one another. So basically what we agree upon as a society. As we practice certain patterns of interaction, we reinforce the belief that society just works that way. Therefore, Symbolic Interactionist maintain that by changing how we interact with one another, we can changeShow MoreRelatedA Vulnerable Population: The Homeless in America919 Words   |  4 PagesA Vulnerable Population: The Homeless in America Introduction Homelessness in America should be a growing concern. When discussing the United States current economic crisis comparisons with the Great Depression are becoming more and more common. Tent cities or makeshift shelters in specified areas or just beyond city limits are becoming familiar sites across the country. Each of these cities contains dozens if not hundreds of families struggling to just survive (Maide, 2010). HomelessnessRead MoreIssues and Adversities Faced by the Homeless Population in America1060 Words   |  4 PagesHomeless families compose a fraction of the homeless population as they â€Å"represent roughly a third of the homeless population in the United States (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2010), and approximately 1.5 million children—1 in 50 youngsters—are homeless each year in the United States† (p. 389). These homeless families often struggle to find permanent residency as a collective unit. There are several types of housing situations available for homeless families such as temporaryRead MoreHealth Issues Among The Homeless Population1450 Words   |  6 Pagesdiscuss current health issues among the homeless population. The paper will also explore the reasons behind homelessness and the society’s perception. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless an individual experiencing homelessness fall into one of the thr ee categories such as, chronic, transitional or episodic homelessness. Medicine or treatment for homeless individuals seeking medical attention, are not as accessible compared to non-homeless individuals due to the culture and roughRead MoreHomeless in The United States 1309 Words   |  6 PagesMcKinney Act defines a homeless person as â€Å" one who lacks a fixed permanent nighttime residence or whose nighttime residence is a temporary shelter, welfare hotel, or any public or private place not designed as sleeping accommodations for human beings† (McNamara 1025). It is impossible to find out exactly the number of homeless; however, the researchers can do a study to estimate that number. 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The epidemic of homelessness in the United States has reached an all-time high since the 1990’s. Unfortunately, the adage of people chose to be homeless was not accounting for families that live paycheck to paycheck and lose their job and therefore their housing bec ause it is unavoidable. Alternatively, many individuals that are homeless have some type of mental illness or substance abuse problem thus creating a barrier to maintaining housing. Many of these individuals are incapable to preserveRead MoreHomelessness : An Epidemic Across The United States1066 Words   |  5 Pagesbecome an epidemic across the United States of America over the past 40 years. Despite the fact that most individuals are reminded of this problem on a daily basis when they see those without homes on the street, few solutions have been implemented that would fix the causes of this horrendous issue. Funding for programs that assist the homeless and homeless prevention programs is abysmal, while the costs incurred due to such a large homeless population continue to rise. Over the past century, a varietyRead MoreHomeless Population And The Homeless Families1421 Words   |  6 PagesThis paper will talk about the homeless population and the homeless families. It will exp lore the multiple causes of family homelessness and the struggle has on homeless family life. The three main reasons for homeless families within America are the following: 1) the lack of affordable housing, 2) low income 3) Inadequate federal subsidy. This paper will also give possible solutions to family homelessness and improvement plans for the future. Home is where the heart is. -Pliny the Elder We have

Chapter 11 The Firebolt Free Essays

Harry didn’t have a very clear idea of how he had managed to get back into the Honeydukes cellar, through the tunnel, and into the castle once more. All he knew was that the return trip seemed to take no time at all, and that he hardly noticed what he was doing, because his head was still pounding with the conversation he had just heard. Why had nobody ever told him? Dumbledore, Hagrid, Mr. We will write a custom essay sample on Chapter 11 The Firebolt or any similar topic only for you Order Now Weasley, Cornelius Fudge†¦why hadn’t anyone ever mentioned the fact that Harry’s parents had died because their best friend had betrayed them? Ron and Hermione watched Harry nervously all through dinner, not daring to talk about what they’d overheard, because Percy was sitting close by them. When they went upstairs to the crowded common room, it was to find Fred and George had set off half a dozen Dungbombs in a fit of end-of-term high spirits. Harry, who didn’t want Fred and George asking him whether he’d reached Hogsmeade or not, sneaked quietly up to the empty dormitory and headed straight for his bedside cabinet. He pushed his books aside and quickly found what he was looking for — the leather-bound photo album Hagrid had given him two years ago, which was full of wizard pictures of his mother and father. He sat down on his bed, drew the hangings around him, and started turning the pages, searching, until †¦ He stopped on a picture of his parents’ wedding day. There was his father waving up at him, beaming, the untidy black hair Harry had inherited standing up in all directions. There was his mother, alight with happiness, arm in arm with his dad. And there†¦that must be him. Their best man†¦Harry had never given him a thought before. If he hadn’t known it was the same person, he would never have guessed it was Black in this old photograph. His face wasn’t sunken and waxy, but handsome, full of laughter. Had he already been working for Voldemort when this picture had been taken? Was he already planning the deaths of the two people next to him? Did he realize he was facing twelve years in Azkaban, twelve years that would make him unrecognizable? But the Dementors don’t affect him, Harry thought, staring into the handsome, laughing face. He doesn’t have to hear my Mum screaming if they get too close — Harry slammed the album shut, reached over and stuffed it back into his cabinet, took off his robe and glasses and got into bed, making sure the hangings were hiding him from view. The dormitory door opened. â€Å"Harry?† said Ron’s voice uncertainly. But Harry lay still, pretending to be asleep. He heard Ron leave again, and rolled over on his back, his eyes wide open. A hatred such as he had never known before was coursing through Harry like poison. He could see Black laughing at him through the darkness, as though somebody had pasted the picture from the album over his eyes. He watched, as though somebody was playing him a piece of film, Sirius Black blasting Peter Pettigrew (who resembled Neville Longbottom) into a thousand pieces. He could hear (though having no idea what Black’s voice might sound like) a low, excited mutter. â€Å"It has happened, My Lord†¦the Potters have made me their Secret-Keeper† and then came another voice, laughing shrilly, the same laugh that Harry heard inside his head whenever the Dementors drew near†¦. â€Å"Harry, you — you look terrible.† Harry hadn’t gotten to sleep until daybreak. He had awoken to find the dormitory deserted, dressed, and gone down the spiral staircase to a common room that was completely empty except for Ron, who was eating a Peppermint Toad and massaging his stomach, and Hermione, who had spread her homework over three tables. â€Å"Where is everyone?† said Harry. â€Å"Gone! It’s the first day of the holidays, remember?† said Ron, watching Harry closely. â€Å"It’s nearly lunchtime; I was going to come and wake you up in a minute.† Harry slumped into a chair next to the fire. Snow was still falling outside the windows. Crookshanks was spread out in front of the fire like a large, ginger rug. â€Å"You really don’t look well, you know,† Hermione said, peering anxiously into his face. â€Å"I’m fine,† said Harry. â€Å"Harry, listen,† said Hermione, exchanging a look with Ron, â€Å"you must be really upset about what we heard yesterday. But the thing is, you mustn’t go doing anything stupid.† â€Å"Like what?† said Harry. â€Å"Like trying to go after Black,† said Ron sharply. Harry could tell they had rehearsed this conversation while he had been asleep. He didn’t say anything. â€Å"You won’t, will you, Harry?† said Hermione. â€Å"Because Black’s not worth dying for,† said Ron. Harry looked at them. They didn’t seem to understand at all. â€Å"D’you know what I see and hear every time a Dementor gets too near me?† Ron and Hermione shook their heads, looking apprehensive. â€Å"I can hear my mum screaming and pleading with Voldemort. And if you’d heard your mum screaming like that, just about to be killed, you wouldn’t forget it in a hurry. And if you found out someone who was supposed to be a friend of hers betrayed her and sent Voldemort after her –â€Å" â€Å"There’s nothing you can do!† said Hermione, looking stricken. â€Å"The Dementors will catch Black and he’ll go back to Azkaban and — and serve him right!† â€Å"You heard what Fudge said. Black isn’t affected by Azkaban like normal people are. It’s not a punishment for him like it is for the others.† â€Å"So what are you saying?† said Ron, looking very tense. â€Å"You want to — to kill Black or something?† â€Å"Don’t be silly,† said Hermione in a panicky voice. â€Å"Harry doesn’t want to kill anyone, do you, Harry?† Again, Harry didn’t answer. He didn’t know what he wanted to do. All he knew was that the idea of doing nothing, while Black was at liberty, was almost more than he could stand. â€Å"Malfoy knows,† he said abruptly. â€Å"Remember what he said to me in Potions? ‘If it was me, I’d hunt him down myself†¦I’d want revenge.'† â€Å"You’re going to take Malfoy’s advice instead of ours?† said Ron furiously. â€Å"Listen†¦you know what Pettigrew’s mother got back after Black had finished with him? Dad told me — the Order of Merlin, First Class, and Pettigrew’s finger in a box. That was the biggest bit of him they could find. Black’s a madman, Harry, and he’s dangerous –â€Å" â€Å"Malfoy’s dad must have told him,† said Harry, ignoring Ron. â€Å"He was right in Voldemort’s inner circle –â€Å" â€Å"Say You-Know-Who, will you?† interjected Ron angrily. â€Å"– so obviously, the Malfoys knew Black was working for Voldemort –â€Å" â€Å"– and Malfoy’d love to see you blown into about a million pieces, like Pettigrew! Get a grip. Malfoy’s just hoping you’ll get yourself killed before he has to play you at Quidditch.† â€Å"Harry, please,† said Hermione, her eyes now shining with tears, â€Å"Please be sensible. Black did a terrible, terrible thing, but d-don’t put yourself in danger, it’s what Black wants†¦Oh, Harry, you’d be playing right into Black’s hands if you went looking for him. Your mum and dad wouldn’t want you to get hurt, would they? They’d never want you to go looking for Black!† â€Å"I’ll never know what they’d have wanted, because thanks to Black, I’ve never spoken to them,† said Harry shortly. There was a silence in which Crookshanks stretched luxuriously flexing his claws. Ron’s pocket quivered. â€Å"Look,† said Ron, obviously casting around for a change of subject, â€Å"it’s the holidays! It’s nearly Christmas! Let’s — let’s go down and see Hagrid. We haven’t visited him for ages!† â€Å"No!† said Hermione quickly. â€Å"Harry isn’t supposed to leave the castle, Ron –â€Å" â€Å"Yeah, let’s go,† said Harry, sitting up, â€Å"and I can ask him how come he never mentioned Black when he told me all about my parents!† Further discussion of Sirius Black plainly wasn’t what Ron had had in mind. â€Å"Or we could have a game of chess,† he said hastily, â€Å"or Gobstones. Percy left a set –â€Å" â€Å"No, let’s visit Hagrid,† said Harry firmly. So they got their cloaks from their dormitories and set off through the portrait hole (â€Å"Stand and fight, you yellow-bellied mongrels!†), down through the empty castle and out through the oak front doors. They made their way slowly down the lawn, making a shallow trench in the glittering, powdery snow, their socks and the hems of their cloaks soaked and freezing. The Forbidden Forest looked as though it had been enchanted, each tree smattered with silver, and Hagrid’s cabin looked like an iced cake. Ron knocked, but there was no answer. â€Å"He’s not out, is he?† said Hermione, who was shivering under her cloak. Ron had his ear to the door. â€Å"There’s a weird noise,† he said. â€Å"Listen — is that Fang?† Harry and Hermione put their ears to the door too. From inside the cabin came a series of low, throbbing moans. â€Å"Think we’d better go and get someone?† said Ron nervously. â€Å"Hagrid!† called Harry, thumping the door. â€Å"Hagrid, are you in there?† There was a sound of heavy footsteps, then the door creaked open. Hagrid stood there with his eyes red and swollen, tears splashing down the front of his leather vest. â€Å"You’ve heard?† he bellowed, and he flung himself onto Harry’s neck. Hagrid being at least twice the size of a normal man, this was no laughing matter. Harry, about to collapse under Hagrid’s weight, was rescued by Ron and Hermione, who each seized Hagrid under an arm and heaved him back into the cabin. Hagrid allowed himself to be steered into a chair and slumped over the table, sobbing uncontrollably, his face glazed with tears that dripped down into his tangled beard. â€Å"Hagrid, what is it?† said Hermione, aghast. Harry spotted an official-looking letter lying open on the table. â€Å"What’s this, Hagrid?† Hagrid’s sobs redoubled, but he shoved the letter toward Harry, who picked it up and read aloud: Dear Mr. Hagrid, Further to our inquiry into the attack by a Hippogriff on a student in your class, we have accepted the assurances of Professor Dumbledore that you bear no responsibility for the regrettable incident. â€Å"Well, that’s okay then, Hagrid!† said Ron, clapping Hagrid on the shoulder. But Hagrid continued to sob, and waved one of his gigantic hands, inviting Harry to read on. However, we must register our concern about the Hippogriff in question. We have decided to uphold the official complaint of Mr. Lucius Malfoy, and this matter will therefore be taken to the Committee for the Disposal of Dangerous Creatures. The hearing will take place on April 20th, and we ask you to present yourself and your Hippogriff at the Committee’s offices in London on that date. In the meantime, the Hippogriff should be kept tethered and isolated. Yours in fellowship †¦ There followed a list of the school governors. â€Å"Oh,† said Ron. â€Å"But you said Buckbeak isn’t a bad Hippogriff, Hagrid. I bet he’ll get off.† â€Å"Yeh don’ know them gargoyles at the Committee fer the Disposal o’ Dangerous Creatures!† choked Hagrid, wiping his eyes on his sleeve. â€Å"They’ve got it in fer interestin’ creatures!† A sudden sound from the corner of Hagrid’s cabin made Harry, Ron, and Hermione whip around. Buckbeak the Hippogriff was lying in the corner, chomping on something that was oozing blood all over the floor. â€Å"I couldn’ leave him tied up out there in the snow!† choked Hagrid. â€Å"All on his own! At Christmas.† Harry, Ron, and Hermione looked at one another. They had never seen eye to eye with Hagrid about what he called ‘interesting creatures’ and other people called ‘terrifying monsters.’ On the other hand, there didn’t seem to be any particular harm in Buckbeak. In fact, by Hagrid’s usual standards, he was positively cute. â€Å"You’ll have to put up a good strong defense, Hagrid,† said Hermione, sitting down and laying a hand on Hagrid’s massive forearm. â€Å"I’m sure you can prove Buckbeak is safe.† â€Å"Won’ make no diff’rence!† sobbed Hagrid. â€Å"Them Disposal devils, they’re all in Lucius Malfoy’s pocket! Scared o’ him! Ad if I lose the case, Buckbeak –â€Å" Hagrid drew his finger swiftly across his throat, then gave a great wail and lurched forward, his face in his arms. â€Å"What about Dumbledore, Hagrid?† said Harry. â€Å"He’s done more’n enough fer me already,† groaned Hagrid. â€Å"Got enough on his plate what with keepin’ them Dementors outta the castle, an’ Sirius Black lurkin’ around.† Ron and Hermione looked quickly at Harry, as though expecting him to start berating Hagrid for not telling him the truth about Black. But Harry couldn’t bring himself to do it, not now that he saw Hagrid so miserable and scared. â€Å"Listen, Hagrid,† he said, â€Å"you can’t give up. Hermione’s right, You just need a good defense. You can call us as witnesses –â€Å" â€Å"I’m sure I’ve read about a case of Hippogriff-baiting,† said Hermione thoughtfully, â€Å"where the Hippogriff got off. I’ll look it up for you, Hagrid, and see exactly what happened.† Hagrid howled still more loudly. Harry and Hermione looked at Ron to help them. â€Å"Er — shall I make a cup of tea?† said Ron. Harry stared at him. â€Å"It’s what my mum does whenever someone’s upset,† Ron muttered, shrugging. At last, after many more assurances of help, with a steaming mug of tea in front of him, Hagrid blew his nose on a handkerchief the size of a tablecloth and said, â€Å"Yer right. I can’ afford to go ter pieces. Gotta pull meself together†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Fang the boarhound came timidly out from under the table and laid his head on Hagrid’s knee. â€Å"I’ve not bin meself lately,† said Hagrid, stroking Fang with one hand and mopping his face with the other. â€Å"Worried abou’ Buckbeak, an’ no one likin’ me classes –â€Å" â€Å"We do like them!† lied Hermione at once. â€Å"Yeah, they’re great!† said Ron, crossing his fingers under the table. â€Å"Er — how are the flobberworms?† â€Å"Dead,† said Hagrid gloomily. â€Å"Too much lettuce.† â€Å"Oh no!† said Ron, his lip twitching. â€Å"An’ them Dementors make me feel ruddy terrible an’ all,† said Hagrid, with a sudden shudder. â€Å"Gotta walk past ’em ev’ry time I want a drink in the Three Broomsticks. ‘S like bein’ back in Azkaban –â€Å" He fell silent, gulping his tea. Harry, Ron, and Hermione watched him breathlessly. They had never heard Hagrid talk about his brief spell in Azkaban before. After a pause, Hermione said timidly, â€Å"Is it awful in there, Hagrid?† â€Å"Yeh’ve no idea,† said Hagrid quietly. â€Å"Never bin anywhere like it. Thought I was goin’ mad. Kep’ goin’ over horrible stuff in me mind†¦the day I got expelled from Hogwarts†¦day me dad died†¦day I had ter let Norbert go †¦Ã¢â‚¬  His eyes filled with tears. Norbert was the baby dragon Hagrid had once won in a game of cards. â€Å"Yeh can’ really remember who yeh are after a while. An’ yeh can’ really see the point o’ livin’ at all. I used ter hope I’d jus’ die in me sleep. When they let me out, it was like bein’ born again, ev’rythin’ came floodin’ back, it was the bes’ feelin’ in the world. Mind, the Dementors weren’t keen on lettin’ me go.† â€Å"But you were innocent!† said Hermione. Hagrid snorted. â€Å"Think that matters to them? They don’ care. Long as they’ve got a couple o’ hundred humans stuck there with ’em, so they can leech all the happiness out of ’em, they don’ give a damn who’s guilty an’ who’s not.† Hagrid went quiet for a moment, staring into his tea. Then he said quietly, â€Å"Thought o’ jus’ letting Buckbeak go †¦tryin’ ter make him fly away†¦but how d’yeh explain ter a Hippogriff it’s gotta go inter hidin’? An’ — an’ I’m scared o’ breakin’ the law†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He looked up at them, tears leaking down his face again. â€Å"I don’ ever want ter go back ter Azkaban.† ****** The trip to Hagrid’s, though far from fun, had nevertheless had the effect Ron and Hermione had hoped. Though Harry had by no means forgotten about Black, he couldn’t brood constantly on revenge if he wanted to help Hagrid win his case against the Committee for the Disposal of Dangerous Creatures. He, Ron, and Hermione went to the library the next day and returned to the empty common room laden with books that might help prepare a defense for Buckbeak. The three of them sat in front of the roaring fire, slowly turning the pages of dusty volumes about famous cases of marauding beasts, speaking occasionally when they ran across something relevant. â€Å"Here’s something†¦there was a case in 1722†¦but the Hippogriff was convicted — ugh, look what they did to it, that’s disgusting –â€Å" â€Å"This might help, look — a Manticore savaged someone in 1296, and they let the Manticore off — oh — no, that was only because everyone was too scared to go near it†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Meanwhile, in the rest of the castle, the usual magnificent Christmas decorations had been put up, despite the fact that hardly any of the students remained to enjoy them. Thick streamers of holly and mistletoe were strung along the corridors, mysterious lights shone from inside every suit of armor, and the Great Hall was filled with its usual twelve Christmas trees, glittering with golden stars. A powerful and delicious smell of cooking pervaded the corridors, and by Christmas Eve, it had grown so strong that even Scabbers poked his nose out of the shelter of Ron’s pocket to sniff hopefully at the air. On Christmas morning, Harry was woken by Ron throwing his pillow at him. â€Å"Oy! Presents!† Harry reached for his glasses and put them on, squinting through the semi-darkness to the foot of his bed, where a small heap of parcels had appeared. Ron was already ripping the paper off his own presents. â€Å"Another sweater from Mum†¦maroon again†¦see if you’ve got one.† Harry had. Mrs. Weasley had sent him a scarlet sweater with the Gryffindor lion knitted on the front, also a dozen home-baked mince pies, some Christmas cake, and a box of nut brittle. As he moved all these things aside, he saw a long, thin package lying underneath. â€Å"What’s that?† said Ron, looking over, a freshly unwrapped pair of maroon socks in his hand. â€Å"Dunno†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Harry ripped the parcel open and gasped as a magnificent, gleaming broomstick rolled out onto his bedspread. Ron dropped his socks and jumped off his bed for a closer look. â€Å"I don’t believe it,† he said hoarsely. It was a Firebolt, identical to the dream broom Harry had gone to see every day in Diagon Alley. Its handle glittered as he picked it up. He could feel it vibrating and let go; it hung in midair, unsupported, at exactly the right height for him to mount it. His eyes moved from the golden registration number at the top of the handle, right down to the perfectly smooth, streamlined birch twigs that made up the tail. â€Å"Who sent it to you?† said Ron in a hushed voice. â€Å"Look and see if there’s a card,† said Harry. Ron ripped apart the Firebolt’s wrappings. â€Å"Nothing! Blimey, who’d spend that much on you?† â€Å"Well,† said Harry, feeling stunned, â€Å"I’m betting it wasn’t the Dursleys.† â€Å"I bet it was Dumbledore,† said Ron, now walking around and around the Firebolt, taking in every glorious inch. â€Å"He sent you the Invisibility Cloak anonymously†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"That was my dad’s, though,† said Harry. â€Å"Dumbledore was just passing it on to me. He wouldn’t spend hundreds of Galleons on me. He can’t go giving students stuff like this –â€Å" â€Å"That’s why he wouldn’t say it was from him!† said Ron. â€Å"In case some git like Malfoy said it was favoritism. Hey, Harry –† Ron gave a great whoop of laughter — â€Å"Malfoy! Wait ’til he sees you on this! He’ll be sick as a pig! This is an international standard broom, this is!† â€Å"I can’t believe this,† Harry muttered, running a hand along the Firebolt, while Ron sank onto Harry’s bed, laughing his head off at the thought of Malfoy. â€Å"Who–?† â€Å"I know,† said Ron, controlling himself, â€Å"I know who it could’ve been — Lupin!† â€Å"What?† said Harry, now starting to laugh himself â€Å"Lupin? Listen, if he had this much gold, he’d be able to buy himself some new robes.† â€Å"Yeah, but he likes you,† said Ron. â€Å"And he was away when your Nimbus got smashed, and he might’ve heard about it and decided to visit Diagon Alley and get this for you –â€Å" â€Å"What d’you mean, he was away?† said Harry. â€Å"He was ill when I was playing in that match.† â€Å"Well, he wasn’t in the hospital wing,† said Ron. â€Å"I was there, cleaning out the bedpans on that detention from Snape, remember?† Harry frowned at Ron. â€Å"I can’t see Lupin affording something like this.† â€Å"What’re you two laughing about?† Hermione had just come in, wearing her dressing gown and carrying Crookshanks, who was looking very grumpy, with a string of tinsel tied around his neck. â€Å"Don’t bring him in here!† said Ron, hurriedly snatching Scabbers from the depths of his bed and stowing him in his pajama pocket. But Hermione wasn’t listening. She dropped Crookshanks onto Seamus’s empty bed and stared, open-mouthed, at the Firebolt. â€Å"Oh, Harry! Who sent you that?† â€Å"No idea,† said Harry. â€Å"There wasn’t a card or anything with it.† To his great surprise, Hermione did not appear either excited or intrigued by the news. On the contrary, her face fell, and she bit her lip. â€Å"What’s the matter with you?† said Ron. â€Å"I don’t know,† said Hermione slowly, â€Å"but it’s a bit odd, isn’t it? I mean, this is supposed to be quite a good broom, isn’t it?† Ron sighed exasperatedly. â€Å"It’s the best broom there is, Hermione,† he said. â€Å"So it must’ve been really expensive†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Probably cost more than all the Slytherins’ brooms put together,† said Ron happily. â€Å"Well†¦who’d send Harry something as expensive as that, and not even tell him they’d sent it?† said Hermione. â€Å"Who cares?† said Ron impatiently. â€Å"Listen, Harry, can I have a go on it? Can I?† â€Å"I don’t think anyone should ride that broom just yet!† said Hermione shrilly. Harry and Ron looked at her. â€Å"What d’you think Harry’s going to do with it — sweep the floor?† said Ron. But before Hermione could answer, Crookshanks sprang from Seamus’s bed, right at Ron’s chest. â€Å"GET — HIM — OUT — OF — HERE!† Ron bellowed as Crookshanks’s claws ripped his pajamas and Scabbers attempted a wild escape over his shoulder. Ron seized Scabbers by the tail and aimed a misjudged kick at Crookshanks that hit the trunk at the end of Harry’s bed, knocking it over and causing Ron to hop up and down, howling with pain. Crookshanks’s fur suddenly stood on end. A shrill, tinny, whistling was filling the room. The Pocket Sneakoscope had become dislodged from Uncle Vernon’s old socks and was whirling and gleaming on the floor. â€Å"I forgot about that!† Harry said, bending down and picking up the Sneakoscope. â€Å"I never wear those socks if I can help it†¦Ã¢â‚¬  The Sneakoscope whirled and whistled in his palm. Crookshanks was hissing and spitting at it. â€Å"You’d better take that cat out of here, Hermione,† said Ron furiously, sitting on Harry’s bed nursing his toe. â€Å"Can’t you shut that thing up?† he added to Harry as Hermione strode out of the room, Crookshanks’s yellow eyes still fixed maliciously on Ron. Harry stuffed the Sneakoscope back inside the socks and threw it back into his trunk. All that could be heard now were Ron’s stifled moans of pain and rage. Scabbers was huddled in Ron’s hands. It had been a while since Harry had seen him out of Ron’s pocket, and he was unpleasantly surprised to see that Scabbers, once so fat, was now very skinny; patches of fur seemed to have fallen out too. â€Å"He’s not looking too good, is he?† Harry said. â€Å"It’s stress!† said Ron. â€Å"He’d be fine if that big stupid furball left him alone!† But Harry, remembering what the woman at the Magical Menagerie had said about rats living only three years, couldn’t help feeling that unless Scabbers had powers he had never revealed, he was reaching the end of his life. And despite Ron’s frequent complaints that Scabbers was both boring and useless, he was sure Ron would be very miserable if Scabbers died. Christmas spirit was definitely thin on the ground in the Gryffindor common room that morning. Hermione had shut Crookshanks in her dormitory, but was furious with Ron for trying to kick him; Ron was still fuming about Crookshanks’s fresh attempt to eat Scabbers. Harry gave up trying to make them talk to each other and devoted himself to examining the Firebolt, which he had brought down to the common room with him. For some reason this seemed to annoy Hermione as well; she didn’t say anything, but she kept looking darkly at the broom as though it too had been criticizing her cat. At lunchtime they went down to the Great Hall, to find that the House tables had been moved against the walls again, and that a single table, set for twelve, stood in the middle of the room. Professors Dumbledore, McGonagall, Snape, Sprout, and Flitwick were there, along with Filch, the caretaker, who had taken off his usual brown coat and was wearing a very old and rather moldy-looking tailcoat. There were only three other students, two extremely nervous-looking first years and a sullen-faced Slytherin fifth year. â€Å"Merry Christmas!† said Dumbledore as Harry, Ron, and Hermione approached the table. â€Å"As there are so few of us, it seemed foolish to use the House tables†¦Sit down, sit down!† Harry, Ron, and Hermione sat down side by side at the end of the table. â€Å"Crackers!† said Dumbledore enthusiastically, offering the end of a large silver noisemaker to Snape, who took it reluctantly and tugged. With a bang like a gunshot, the cracker flew apart to reveal a large, pointed witches hat topped with a stuffed vulture. Harry, remembering the Boggart, caught Ron’s eye and they both grinned; Snape’s mouth thinned and he pushed the hat toward Dumbledore, who swapped it for his wizard’s hat at once. â€Å"Dig in!† he advised the table, beaming around. As Harry was helping himself to roast potatoes, the doors of the Great Hall opened again. It was Professor Trelawney, gliding toward them as though on wheels. She had put on a green sequined dress in honor of the occasion, making her look more than ever like a glittering, oversized dragonfly. â€Å"Sibyll, this is a pleasant surprise!† said Dumbledore, standing up. â€Å"I have been crystal gazing, Headmaster,† said Professor Trelawney in her mistiest, most faraway voice, â€Å"and to my astonishment, I saw myself abandoning my solitary luncheon and coming to join you. Who am I to refuse the promptings of fate? I at once hastened from my tower, and I do beg you to forgive my lateness†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Certainly, certainly,† said Dumbledore, his eyes twinkling. â€Å"Let me draw you up a chair –â€Å" And he did indeed draw a chair in midair with his wand, which revolved for a few seconds before falling with a thud between Professors Snape and McGonagall. Professor Trelawney, however, did not sit down; her enormous eyes had been roving around the table, and she suddenly uttered a kind of soft scream. â€Å"I dare not, Headmaster! If I join the table, we shall be thirteen! Nothing could be more unlucky! Never forget that when thirteen dine together, the first to rise will be the first to die!† â€Å"We’ll risk it, Sibyll,† said Professor McGonagall impatiently. â€Å"Do sit down, the turkey’s getting stone cold.† Professor Trelawney hesitated, then lowered herself into the empty chair, eyes shut and mouth clenched tight, as though expecting a thunderbolt to hit the table. Professor McGonagall poked a large spoon into the nearest tureen. â€Å"Tripe, Sibyll?† Professor Trelawney ignored her. Eyes open again, she looked around once more and said, â€Å"But where is dear Professor Lupin?† â€Å"I’m afraid the poor fellow is ill again,† said Dumbledore, indicating that everybody should start serving themselves. â€Å"Most unfortunate that it should happen on Christmas Day.† â€Å"But surely you already knew that, Sibyll?† said Professor McGonagall, her eyebrows raised. Professor Trelawney gave Professor McGonagall a very cold look. â€Å"Certainly I knew, Minerva,† she said quietly. â€Å"But one does not parade the fact that one is All-Knowing. I frequently act as though I am not possessed of the Inner Eye, so as not to make others nervous.† â€Å"That explains a great deal,† said Professor McGonagall tartly. Professor Trelawney’s voice suddenly became a good deal less misty. â€Å"If you must know, Minerva, I have seen that poor Professor Lupin will not be with us for very long. He seems aware, himself, that his time is short. He positively fled when I offered to crystal gaze for him –â€Å" â€Å"Imagine that,† said Professor McGonagall dryly. â€Å"I doubt,† said Dumbledore, in a cheerful but slightly raised voice, which put an end to Professor McGonagall and Professor Trelawney’s conversation, â€Å"that Professor Lupin is in any immediate danger. Severus, you’ve made the potion for him again?† â€Å"Yes, Headmaster,† said Snape. â€Å"Good,† said Dumbledore. â€Å"Then he should be up and about in no time†¦Derek, have you had any of the chipolatas? They’re excellent.† The first-year boy went furiously red on being addressed directly by Dumbledore, and took the platter of sausages with trembling hands. Professor Trelawney behaved almost normally until the very end of Christmas dinner, two hours later. Full to bursting with Christmas dinner and still wearing their cracker hats, Harry and Ron got up first from the table and she shrieked loudly. â€Å"My dears! Which of you left his seat first? Which?† â€Å"Dunno,† said Ron, looking uneasily at Harry. â€Å"I doubt it will make much difference,† said Professor McGonagall coldly, â€Å"unless a mad axe-man is waiting outside the doors to slaughter the first into the Entrance Hall.† Even Ron laughed. Professor Trelawney looked highly affronted. â€Å"Coming?† Harry said to Hermione. â€Å"No,† Hermione muttered. â€Å"I want a quick word with Professor McGonagall.† â€Å"Probably trying to see if she can take any more classes,† yawned Ron as they make their way into the Entrance Hall, which was completely devoid of mad axe-men. When they reached the portrait hole they found Sir Cadogan enjoying a Christmas part with a couple of monks, several previous headmasters of Hogwarts and his fat pony. He pushed up his visor toasted them with a flagon of mead. â€Å"Merry — hic — Christmas! Password?† â€Å"Scurvy cur,† said Ron. â€Å"And the same to you, sir! roared Sir Cadogan, as the painting swung forward to admit them. Harry went straight up to the dormitory, collected his Firebolt and the Broomstick Servicing Kit Hermione had given him for his birthday, brought them downstairs and tried to find something to do with the Firebolt; however, there where no bent twigs to clip, and the handle was so shiny already it seemed pointless to polish it. He and Ron simply sat admiring it from every angle, until the portrait hole opened, and Hermione came in, accompanied by Professor McGonagall. Though Professor McGonagall was Head of Gryffindor House, Harry had only seen her in the common room once before, and that had been to make a very grave announcement. He and Ron stared at her, both holding the Firebolt. Hermione walked around them, sat down, picked up the nearest book and hid her face behind it. â€Å"So that’s it, is it?† said Professor McGonagall beadily, walking over to the fireside and staring at the Firebolt. â€Å"Miss Granger has just informed me that you have been sent a broomstick, Potter.† Harry and Ron looked around at Hermione. They could see her forehead reddening over the top of her book, which was upside-down. â€Å"May I?† said Professor McGonagall, but she didn’t wait for an answer before pulling the Firebolt out of their hands. She examined it carefully from handle to twig-ends. â€Å"Hmm. And there was no note at all, Potter? No card? No message of any kind?† â€Å"No,† said Harry blankly. â€Å"I see†¦Ã¢â‚¬  said Professor McGonagall. â€Å"Well, I’m afraid I will have to take this, Potter.† â€Å"W — what?† said Harry, scrambling to his feet. â€Å"Why?† â€Å"It will need to be checked for jinxes,† said Professor McGonagall. â€Å"Of course, I’m no expert, but I daresay Madam Hooch and Professor Flitwick will strip it down –â€Å" â€Å"Strip it down?† repeated Ron, as though Professor McGonagall was mad. â€Å"It shouldn’t take more than a few weeks,† said Professor McGonagall. â€Å"You will have it back if we are sure it is jinx-free.† â€Å"There’s nothing wrong with it!† said Harry, his voice shaking slightly. â€Å"Honestly, Professor –â€Å" â€Å"You can’t know that, Potter,† said Professor McGonagall, quite kindly, â€Å"not until you’ve flown it, at any rate, and I’m afraid that is out of the question until we are certain that it has not been tampered with. I shall keep you informed.† Professor McGonagall turned on her heel and carried the Firebolt out of the portrait hole, which closed behind her. Harry stood staring after her, the tin of High-Finish Polish still clutched in his hands. Ron, however, rounded on Hermione. â€Å"What did you go running to McGonagall for?† Hermione threw her book aside. She was still pink in the face, but stood up and faced Ron defiantly. â€Å"Because I thought — and Professor McGonagall agrees with me — that that broom was probably sent to Harry by Sirius Black!† How to cite Chapter 11 The Firebolt, Essay examples

Issue Challenges Faced by Entertainment Electronics Industry.Doc Uploaded Successfully free essay sample

Issues Challenges faced by Entertainment Electronics Industry Change is relentless within the Entertainment Electronics Industry (EEI). Successful leaders over the short AND long term must doggedly address change. They must never tire never get mired in the romance of their history. As EEI is the harbinger for most other industries, issues hit here first and must be sorted out amid tremendous pressure. Winning EEI industry leaders tend to be either visionary business strategists or the consummate fast-follower because this market is dynamic. EEI companies must [pic] Business gurus in other industries may argue over which of two competitive paths is best creating value by focusing leadership attention on opportunity management or creating value by continually reducing costs. But captains of consumer electronics know that to survive in this global market, companies must do both simultaneously business opportunities new products must wed with operational efficiencies consolidations. Everyone knows this †¦ †¦ and yet, in the privacy of the boardroom, when it comes right down to the last hard choices, each company leader tends to put their dollars and attention on one path more often than the other. And that has competitive consequences. And it doesn’t have to be that way. There is a portal that opens up a world in which such kind of trade off is unnecessary. The portal is venerable; and the concepts tools that lead one through the portal are so foundational they are often labeled anile irrelevant and are glossed over when, in fact, they hold the key to sustained competitive success. The portal to continuous competitive competence is the ability to resolve problems. For over sixty years, problem-solving has been quietly evolving into a powerful new discipline. At the leading edge of that evolution is Structured Innovation. In the consumer electronics industry, leaders need to solve problems at the edge of what is known. Modern competitive problems require a multidisciplinary team based approach, non-linear thinking, and paradigm shifting and more. In a nutshell, leaders who win every quarter and every year and decade after decade, in all environments, and against the best competitors are skilled at shifting their paradigm and solving their critical problems no matter how constrained. That’s it! There are no huge tooling costs, no disruptive cultural uprisings, no unpalatable trade offs. Cultivating the correct skills makes problem-solving reliable, quantifiable, manageable, and available on-demand. Structured problem-solving is the simplest, most dependable core competency a leader or a company can dust-off and modernize for competitive command of the entertainment electronics industry. The question is: will consumer electronics companies compete better in today’s environment if management focuses more intently on opportunity or cost? And how will that focus affect the company’s standing with customers, within the industry and with employees and partners? To Sum it up: Competitiveness means adapting well to change. Change equals new problems. And these problems are often at the edge of what we know. Structured Innovation, by its very nature resolves problems. The ‘harder’ the problem is, the more useful it is to use Structured Innovation to solve it. Innovating in a structured, methodical, reliable way allows for problem-solving as a manageable process. In order to remain competitive in today’s global marketplace, entertainment electronics companies need to constantly create value by resolving the conflicts that arise when there is an integrated focus on opportunity creation and cost reduction and change management. The basic and urgent core competency needs to be methodical problem-solving if a company is to remain competitively relevant. Every entertainment electronics industry leader needs to have the ability to: †¢ Quickly recognize when something is no longer working or when conditions have changed respond to psychological inertia; †¢ Define the problem and an achievable ideal situation to get more of what you want and less of what you don’t want define ideality; †¢ Develop the core competency to produce inventive-level solutions (in yourself and in teams across the organization) using structured problem-solving; †¢ Implement the hardy olutions throughout the system using effective change management (and resolve resistances along the way if necessary by using problem-solving tools); †¢ Solve any and all secondary problems; and †¢ Predict future risks, develop future strategies, and forge competitive leadership. With Structured Innovation as a core competency, the world of competitive mastery is open to visionary leaders. †¢ Be highly competitive (need to create value th rough innovative opportunity) †¢ Constantly create better business models (opportunity) †¢ Quickly transition to new platform technologies (opportunity) †¢ Produce innovative products position them well at the correct time to meet real market needs (opportunity) †¢ Etc. AND †¢ deal with serious price and product lifecycles erosions (need to create value through cost reduction) AND †¢ constantly improve business manufacturing processes (cost reduction) AND †¢ counter rapid market penetration by copycats products (cost reduction) AND †¢ Be agile react quickly and not be too proud to do what must be done, even if that is not ‘their usual way’; adopt superb change management skills (cost reduction) †¢ Etc.

Eel Marsh House Essay Example

Eel Marsh House Paper No reader of The Woman in Black, can be left in doubt about its conscious evocation of the Gothic. It is full of motifs and effects associated with that genre. How far would you agree with this statement of the novel? There is absolutely no doubt that Susan Hill consciously evocates the Gothic in The Woman in Black. There are many obvious conventions she uses that create a great Gothic effect throughout the novel. It is clear that this novel contains most of the elements that constitute the genre, for example, an eerie atmosphere full of mystery and suspense, and a character feeling high or overwrought emotions. This concludes the novel into a sub-genre of the Gothic, a ghost story. The Gothic has been active since the eighteenth century; the genre was especially popular within the years of The French Revolution and The Great Terror, which fell between 1789 and the 1790s. The Gothic can also be traced back to the original Goths, who were believed to have been around in the last days of the Roman Empire. However, there is no substantial proof as the Goths left almost no written records, and were mostly unheard of until the first Gothic revival in the late eighteenth century. In Britain this revival involved a series of attempts to return to roots, in contrast to the classical model revered in the earlier eighteenth century. It is believed that the very first Gothic novel was invented solely by Horace Walpole, when he wrote The Castle of Otranto in 1764. This novel was imitated throughout the following centuries because it contains essentially all the elements that comprise the Gothic genre. It is also believed to have influenced writing, poetry and film making to the present day. We will write a custom essay sample on Eel Marsh House specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Eel Marsh House specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Eel Marsh House specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Other key Gothic novelists of this period that would also have contributed to this influence are Mary Shelly, the author of Frankenstein, which has had many film adaptations within the last century produced from it. And also Bram Stoker who wrote Dracula, which I think has an influence in The Woman in Black as the narrator Arthur Kipps, has many similar characteristics to the narrator of Dracula, Jonathan Harker, such as them both being portrayed as commonsensical, rational, successful lawyers on a mission to single-handedly unravel the mystery theyre faced with. Ann Radcliffs idea of Gothic horror has also clearly influenced The Woman in Black too, because we notice our narrator on several occasions, contracts, freezes and is nearly annihilated by some unknown supernatural force. Arthurs first encounter with The Woman in Black is a prime example of Gothic horror; he explains It was as though I had become paralysed. This reveals to us that Mr Jerome must have been feeling this same sensation in the churchyard, because just after Arthur tries to explain his sighting of the sick-looking woman he describes that Mr Jerome looked frozen, pale, his throat moving as if he were unable to utter. There is another incident of Gothic horror where Arthur is thrown into darkness and again his emotions start to increase, probably even more so than ever as he is staying at the extraordinarily addictive and extremely mysterious Eel Marsh House. He tells us I was lost to everything but my own fears, incapable of decisive, coherent thought, let alone movement. This maybe psychologically scarring for Arthur as he elucidates earlier in the novel, I could not move, it had, for the moment paralysed me, just as it had always done, it was a long-forgotten, once too-familiar sensation. This was how he felt being forcefully plunged into darkness with no choice of hearing silly tales conjured up by his stepchildren. He then later says I dreaded the hours of darkness that lay ahead. His experience at Eel Marsh House has clearly mentally damaged him in a way to cause him to feel so emotionally overwrought about being in the dark, especially in his own home.

Understanding Specially Designed Instruction

Understanding Specially Designed Instruction The Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) section of the Individual Education Plan (IEP) is one of the most important parts of this important document. The special education teacher, along with the IEP team, determines what accommodations and modifications the student will be receiving. As a legal document, the IEP not only binds the special educator but the whole school population, as every member of the community must deal with this child. Extended test time, frequent bathroom breaks, whatever SDIs are written into the IEP must be provided by the principal, the librarian, the gym teacher, the lunchroom monitor, and the general education teacher, as well as the special education teacher. Failure to provide those accommodations and modifications can create serious legal jeopardy for the members of the school community who ignore them. What Are SDIs? SDIs fall into two categories: accommodations and modifications. Some people use the terms interchangeably, but legally they are not the same. Children with 504 plans will have accommodations but not modifications in their plans. Children with IEPs can have both. Accommodations are changes in the way in which the child is treated in order to best accommodate the childs physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges. They might include: Extended time for tests (the standard is one and a half times as long as allowed, but in most general education classrooms unlimited time is not uncommon)Frequent test breaksThe ability to move around the classroom (especially kids with ADHD)Bathroom breaks when neededSpecial seating (for example, in front of the class or separated from peers)A water bottle at the students desk (some medications create dry mouth) Modifications change the academic or curricular demands made of a child to better fit the childs ability. Modifications might include the following: Modified homework10 words or less on spelling testsScribing (the teacher or an aide writes the responses, as dictated by a child)Separate, modified tests in content areasAlternate forms of assessment, such as dictating, oral retelling, and portfolios Individual Education Plan Its good to have a conversation with other teachers as you are preparing the IEP, especially if you need to prepare that teacher to deal with Accommodations they are not going to like (such as bathroom breaks without requests). Some children have medications that make them need to urinate frequently. Once an IEP is signed, and the IEP meeting is over, be sure every teacher who sees the child gets a copy of the IEP. It is also important that you go over the Specially Designed Instructions and discuss how they are going to be carried out. This is one place a general educator can cause him or herself some serious grief with parents. This is also a place where that same teacher can earn the trust and support of those parents.

Summary of God's relationship with Hebrew people Essay

Summary of God's relationship with Hebrew people - Essay Example food and companions to the first couple; God’s punishing of the first couple and serpent; Cain and Abel’s offerings to God; God’s interaction with Noah; God’s second punishment -- the Great Flood; God’s promise to Abraham; and God’s encounter with Jonah and Job. Collectively, God’s relationship with the Hebrews was established through the Hebrew understanding and living of the themes carried out by these Biblical events. Moreover, the relationship was also strongly made out of the fact that Hebrews, just like the other races, came from the same descendants -- the first couple. Specifically, the Hebrew was said to be a race coming from Shem -- one of Noah’s children. The extent to which God’s relationship to the Hebrews domineered any other relationship. This was significantly reflected on the Hebrew’s dedication. This dedication came to fruition through the writing of the Bible. Consequently, the Hebrew people were able to pass God’s will through an emphasis on themes to the next generation of worshippers. Because of this emphasis on themes, time-lines were ignored and contradicting facts ensue (Dj Love, Chapter 15, Study

Humans Create Powerful Symbols - Hornbill Figure Essay

Humans Create Powerful Symbols - Hornbill Figure - Essay Example They also believed this entity allowed energy flow from one being to the next in a cyclic process. This connection between mankind and the rest of all living things inspired men to associate the image of nature to the theory of the existence of a higher being with supreme powers. These connections could be either supernatural or spiritual. This symbolic connection has been passed down through numerous generations throughout history. Different cultures and religions use the symbolism in the ways that are adapted to suit their beliefs. The specially skilled Ibans of Sarawak, whom are known for their carvings include an exclusively designed hornbill figure. This is an example of the combination of religion, nature, and art. The ‘Hornbill Figure,' known as 'Kenyalang,' has essentially been the chief subject of interest among the Iban carvers of Sarawak, Malaysia (Davenport). It was between the nineteenth and twentieth centuries that the Iban people began to show their culture by sc ulpting images of the hornbill. This also become a very important part of sacred ceremonies conducted by the Iban community. With a standard length of over 33 feet, the Hornbill Figure is traditionally created using wood, paint, cotton thread, plant, and wool materials and textiles. At the Fowler Museum, a person can take in the details of the art form of the hornbill sculpture. Its sharply pointed bill draws a huge curve and the painting on the body uses various strokes and pigments portraying how colorful the Iban festivals and culture are. Hornbill carvings are recognized as an art form but also is an indicator of the way of life of the Iban people. The unique portrayal of the carvings are associated with Iban’s greatest festive celebrations with religious rituals (Davenport). The Hornbill Figure typically is a special embodiment of a bird believed to possess knowledge and wisdom. Aside from bringing a prophecy to which Iban communities deeply relied on in the past, it is also considered a fundamental medium. This allowed for the blending of a spiritual dimension with the world of humans so they may possibly pass on their freedom to interact with spirits and supernatural beings for many reasons (Davenport). To achieve victory during war, the hornbill symbol and faith in its image was believed in to help aid in obtaining extraordinary power to intimidate and eventually subdue enemies. In particular, the custom of Iban’s Gawai Kenyalang had such strong meaning that it was used for the purpose of reaching success in raiding and headhunting (trophy-taking). During this, the heads taken from the enemies were claimed to have powers that could potentially add to the overall strength or invincibility of the victorious community (Davenport). Looking at the figure of the hornbill and evaluating the different features, one can feel the depth of the strong Malaysian history and culture. There is an aesthetic feeling that is brought out in its design that is highly representative of the culture of its people. Regardless of the complex processes of politics and the changes of culture for the Iban people through history that has impacted their lifestyles in several ways, the Ibans still believe in the hornbill image. The carved figure of the bird reflects the symbolism of courage and power of the Iban people. The artist takes the approach of providing exquisite carving as well as adding vibrant colors. The bird's eyes contain an intense yet subtle look. Unlike other icons of religion, the Hornbill Figure is more influential than many other types of symbols. This in turn makes the believers in its powers very strong. As the making of hornbill images increased

What does Weber mean by charismatic authority How and why does he Essay

What does Weber mean by charismatic authority How and why does he contrast it to bureaucracy - Essay Example Much progress had been made, but he was not at all confident that that progress could raise human beings to the required moral status that was needed to ensure the world would be a livable place. One problem he had was the way current social scientists were analyzing history and social activity. They all seem to think that the world was on a route of progress, hence their evaluation of history was framed from valued, or normative points of views. Weber created the use of "ideal type" to analyze social data and activity such that values could be separated for observations and theorists could make empirically based views. An ideal type became a concept marking regularities of meaningful action. The ideal type model would enable precise definitions for comparison and measurement of social reality. In his analysis of leadership ideal types that have evolved through history, he created three models. These were the legal or bureaucratic leader, the authority leader, and the charismatic lea der. This report will concentrate on "charismatic authority" and will contrast it to "bureaucracy". It will view how charismatic authority may contribute to a sociological understanding of power in modern society. Discussion How has the concept of ‘leader’ risen in society and in what way has it became an authority figure? Weber attempted to not make value judgments as he outlined his leadership types. Hence he was able to accept as a fact that the bureaucratic leader existed, alone with the traditional and charismatic ones. Although the route that the leader took to authority may have involved injustice or arbitrary actions, Weber's task was to describe the various types and how they came to be accepted (Titunik 65). The bureaucratic or legal leader represented the impersonal type leader that worked efficiently in such organizations as businesses, schools, and even church hierarchies and hospitals. They were the officials of an organization who ruled not on personal lo yalties, but on clear hierarchic chains of command that were organized on systems of intentionally created abstract rules. There were rules of conduct and specified roles were marked out. There were distinct spheres of ownership and staff and staff was paid more or less for skills that were acquired and recognize to operate on the position. One of the problems dealing with bureaucratic leadership was that many times it could be seen as lording over an emotionless 'iron cage' (Weber 181). The traditional leader evolved from a historical patriarch whose position was that of a personal master who ruled over his subjects. He was more or less limited by traditional laws and his rule was held up by faithful followers who had received benefits. It is the charismatic leader whom Weber seems to spend much time on. This particular leader came to power through recognition of his exceptional powers as a hero, as a person who took the ultimate self-sacrifice. His followers are mesmerized before him and had accepted his otherworldly nature. He has exemplary character. He is able to bring meaning into the lives of his follower and he can give them goals and images to internalize and believe in to "transcend their own limited existence" (Conger et al 751). The charismatic leader releases his followers from "custom, law and tradition", even from family responsibilities and, most importantly, from their own conscience (Conger et al 751). Dow sees it as an ideal type and an emotional life-force that "remains forever beyond the reach of bureaucratic domination† (Dow 85). Charismatic leadership directly contrasts bureaucratic leadership. Dow suggests that Weber celebrated ‘charisma as an â€Å"emotional life-force† antagonistic to the dreary construction of the iron cage’† (Dow 85). Yet, today they both can be seen operating easily in tantrum. One

Supply chain management of Nestle

Supply chain management of Nestle Supply chain management has gaining its importance in serving business operations and being part of strategic management of the business. Its role has been shifted from being a support department to being the core department of business with strategic importance and role to play in overall operations of the business. In modern business world no organization can sustain without having a well established, effective and efficient supply chain management. The role of vendors along with vendor management with the introduction of information technology is important consideration for organizations. Now with increase of strategic importance of supply chain management the service provider is now becoming a partner to the organization, rather being just the vendor. The factor influencing competitive advantage of the organization is now having the better vendor management and vendor relations in the list. Therefore in coming years the importance of supply chain management is expected to increase with the increase in competition and globalization. To understand the strategic supply chain management, key concepts and use of information technology to maintain the vendor relationships, this report in presented on one of the leading FMCG company Nestle. Their products range is wide and the concentration of this report is on organizations Pakistan operations. Since Pakistan is the part of their global supply chain operations but for their milk products they have to rely on the local milk suppliers who are not very much educated and well equipped. Therefore managing them is a challenge for the organization and same challenge and its handling is under study in this report. There are some recommendations also given at the end so that improvements can be made in local supply chain. Assignment 2a 2ai) Current Supply Chain Strategies in Nestle In these lines I shall be looking at the supply chain management of Nestle Pakistans operation and would not be discussing the global supply chain management of the organization. The organization has remarkable production facilities in the country and they have also enjoyed the healthy market share for last few decades. One of the reasons of the success of the organization is their vendor management and the intelligent distribution system. The market in Pakistan is mostly dependent upon the distribution network and same has been managed by the organization in recent years by having excellent relationship with their channel members and logistics. Their distribution network makes sure that every product is distributed in the required areas at the required time and the demand and supply does not have any gap. Their distribution setup is synced with their production system therefore they do not have to manage the inventory of the product for the longer period of time. This strategy has saved the organization on financial side moreover they have been able to provide the product to the market at demand (Hugos, 2006). The second side of their supply chain management is their vendor management, they have applied the just in time management concept in their raw material procurement and vendors are very well synced with the procurement and procurement is synced with the production and other support departments. This just in time management has also saved the organization the inventory management cost of the raw material and they are able to maintain a very low level of the inventory. Their vendor are also required to make sure that their raw material reaches to the organization on time (Hugos, 2006). 2aii) Use of IT to Maintain Vendor Relationships The information technology is serving organization to manage their business operations in different ways; the same concept can also be applied to manage vendor relationships with Nestle Pakistans operations. The organization can design a procurement network that is integrated with the various departments of the organization. And the procurement department can have information technology based application that are also integrated with the systems of the vendors and are automated. By using this system organization have the concept of just in time management applied in full spirit and the vendors will also be aware of the production schedules of the organization and they will be able to plan their delivery and their own production planning according (Hugos, 2006). The above mentioned scenario will make it easy and convenient for the vendors to do business with the organization and they will have better relationships with the organization and will continue to do business with them. With having these relationships with the organization they will be able to be partners of the company. Assignment 2b 2bi) Assistance of IT in Supply Chain The use of information technology can assist a great deal in the management of supply chain in case of Nestle Pakistan operations. In the global supply chain nestle is making use of supply chain management tools that are support by latest technology available. These tools are able to integrate different parts of the supply chain that includes the just in time management of raw materials, automation of order generation to vendors and the logistics of raw material from vendor to warehouse and the distribution of the finished goods to the different channels (Chopra and Meindl, 2009). Previously all the above mentioned parts of the supply chain were disintegrated or in some organization these parts were partially integrated. Now information technology has made is possible and easy to manage all these parts of the supply chain from one terminal and more over these parts and integrated with more automation. Example of this integration is simple, once the inventory level reaches to the pre defined minimum for the raw material at the production facility, then the order management system which is connected to the inventory management system, automatically generated order to the pre defined vendors. The order receiving systems of vendors are connected with the procurement systems of the organization (Chopra and Meindl, 2009). After the vendor is intimated, they manage to supply the required stuff and required quantity to organizations warehouse which is already intimated for the order delivery. All this process is done via an integrated system which is called ERP. The application of these information technology tools make the organization able to save their time and management resources and make the vendor the partners of the organization above all this usage of IT bring automation in the processes which is the requirement of production oriented organizations (Chopra and Meindl, 2009). 2bii) Effectiveness of IT in Management of Supply Chain in Nestle When we talk about the effectively using the information technology in the Pakistan market with local vendors that we see that our case company has been able to improve a lot in recent years. Since the market of Pakistan is still in developing phase and the modern management and information technology practices are yet to be adapted in this market. Since Nestle for their business require a team of vendors that are able to provide the timely supplies therefore they had to work hard to induct the modern practices in their supply chain in relation the market conditions (Cohen and Roussel, 2004). Apart from the current IT tools to help the organization gain the best out of their supply chain management, there is a function in which information technology and its use can play an important part in the management of business, and which is still to be explored. This area is related to the supply chain management of their milk products. For their milk brand which is called MILK PAK they need to collect he milk from far and village areas of the market as the milk production is mostly done in the rural areas of Pakistan. Their milk collection process is done on daily basis and it is still on manual basis. There can be use of information technology by using this they can maintain the data base of their milk vendors which are small, geographically distributed and dispersed in locations. Moreover they can also use information technology to locate their collection van using global positioning systems and install trekkers in them so that they can make sure the safety of the milk and the vans . Assignment 2c 2ci) Role of Logistics in Supply Chain Logistics has an important role to play in the overall supply chain management of any organization. Logistics are the activities that are designed to keep the good or services moving from one destination to the other destination. This movement of goods or services can be related to the raw material need for production setup, and its movement would be from vendor premises to the organizational premises and this movement can also be related to movement of finished good from organizational production facility to the channel member facility. In overall management of supply chain the logistics part has its own importance. Since the production oriented business is all about timing. If the raw material is not available to the production facility then the whole production cycle will get disturbed and similarly if the finished good are not reached to the channel members then they will not be able to distribute it on time and the result will be the complete failure of the business plan (Cohen and Roussel, 2004). Consideration for any organization would be to have the logistics setup planned and implemented that is consuming less cost of operations more over which is integrated with the supply and demand channels of the organization. Ability to design such logistics setup helps the organization to achieve their supply chain objectives with putting minimum cost to it. The success of any supply chain management is dependent upon the design of logistics, the smarter the design which is able to serve maximum in minimum cost the better the performance of supply chain roles will be. Focus of our case organization is to design the global logistics channel that is able to satisfy the global business needs in minimum costs. And they have been able to handle this challenge smartly (Cohen and Roussel, 2004). 2cii) Evaluation of Procurement Practices in Nestle Procurement practices in Nestle global as well as Nestle Pakistan are streamlined and working on the smarter management concepts. It would not be wrong to say that one of the success factors for their profitability in the Pakistan is their vendor relations and smart procurement. Nestle Pakistan has to procure different good and services from different kinds of vendor for their operations; these good ranges from the raw material for their finished good as well as the supplies for the support departments like marketing. The overall philosophy of Nestle Pakistan procurement is to focus on quality as well as business efficiency (Hugos, 2006). When we talk about the milk product of the case company then we see that the procurement of the milk from different villagers that are spread across Pakistan is a challenge and the organization has been able to cater to this challenge very well. The important factor in the procurement of the raw milk is to make sure that milk is pure, hygienic and fresh. These things are made sure by designing a well established vendor network that is responsible for the procurement of fresh milk upon the above mentioned properties (Hugos, 2006). Their procurement department has select the reliable and quality vendors that includes small to medium sized diaries that provides the quality milk to the company. Their procurement department also makes sure that the milk is fresh, hygienic and above the standards defined by the organization. Their logistics have made sure that the fresh milk reaches to the production facility on daily basis. The same care and quality consciousness have been practiced in other procurement tasks, and in short we can say that procurement processes at the organization are of high standards (Hugos, 2006). 2ciii) Factors for Improvement in Logistics Procurement There are several factors that are to be considered when organizations go for reviewing and improving their logistics and procurement. The first factor that is to be taken care of is the bargaining power of the suppliers. The higher the bargaining power of supplier the higher will be the requirement for the organization to maintain and build good relationships with their suppliers. In industries where such power is with suppliers organizations have to design their procurement process which is supplier friendly and encourages the organizations to have good friendly relationships with their vendor, focusing on making them their partners in business and getting the competitive edge out of it (Chopra and Meindl, 2009). The second factor which is to be taken into consideration is the cost factor, the procurement and logistics can be costly to the organization if not designed creatively. The logistic are costly when their inbound and outbound management is not done the way to maximize the productivity. Therefore when organization design the procurement and logistics process they should keep in mind the cost of procuring the goods and service along with the distribution cost of the good should be minimum. These costs include the time and resources costs as well. Another important consideration is related to the integration of procurement and logistics with rest of the business operation. Organization when improving these processes should also make it sure that the maximum integration is possible with other departments like production. They should be working on the automation of the processes that should be managed by single hub. This way the costs of operations will be minimum and automation and integration of all the operations will save time and increase efficiency in the business processes. They should also make sure that integration also include the vendors (Chopra and Meindl, 2009). Assignment 2d 2di) Strategy for the Improvement of Supply Chain Presented below is the brief overview about the strategy that can be used to improve the supply chain management of the organization. The focus of the strategy to improve the supply chain management of Nestle Pakistans operations. While reviewing this strategy it should be kept in mind that Pakistan is developing country and their vendor management and logistics operations are being run on old school management. The mentioned below point are focusing on vendor management and to increase the use of information technology to bring overall improvement (Chopra and Meindl, 2009). First of all the organization should work on the vendor relationship management, up till now the balance of power was with the organizations in Pakistani market, but with the introduction of global economy and open market more players are entering into Pakistan and now the importance of vendors is increasing. Keeping this view in mind the Nestle should be working on increasing the organization and vendor integration and they should be made partners in business. This can be done via having automation and integration with vendor systems and simply keeping them motivated to be partners with the organization (Chopra and Meindl, 2009). The second improvement which is required is to start the use of information technology in their supply chain management processed. Up till now the organization is using the information technology internally but they have to move out and make their vendor also use this tool. One can argue that currently vendors are not that advance in using technologies but I would say that organization would have to educate their vendors and make them part of their organizational process, this way they will be able to achieve the true partnership with their suppliers and the operations of supply chain will improve a great deal (Chopra and Meindl, 2009). 2dii) Benefits of Improvement to Business Operations The improvements suggested above have different benefits to the organizational business operations, these benefits ranges from operation to strategic benefits. The first benefit that organization will have is that they will have a strategic competitive advantage by partnering with the suppliers of the raw material of their products. The business era is changing the market and now other players are also entering into the same market, now the competitive advantage will be with the organizations which have strategic partnership with their suppliers as well. The increases in competition have also made the suppliers aware of their important role and they are also feeling the shifting balance of power. So it will be advisable to make the partnership before others do (Hugos, 2006). The second improvement is related to the use of information technology in supply chain management and it has many benefits for the organization. First of all the organization will be able to achieve the integration between different departments playing their part in value chain. Once this is done it will save time and financial resources to the organization as the processes will be streamlined and efficiency will increase. The second benefit of the IT usage will be that vendors and suppliers can also be made part of the organizational processes and with that supply chain overall and procurement processes in specific will be improved. This will again help the organization to get business efficiency (Hugos, 2006). The third benefit is related to distribution part of supply chain, organization will, with the usage of information technology, have the most streamlined distribution network when they have partnered with their channel members, and this will also help in the improvement of business. 2diii) Overcoming the Barriers to Change in Improvement Strategy Whenever there is a strategic change barriers are always there. These barriers are to be removed with the creation of understanding and delegation. The first process is to make the management understand that what are the benefits of the new strategy advised for the strategic change in supply change management. More over the management will also be informed about the challenges it has to face if they do not adapt the required changes in the market. The top management in the first phase will be made part of the process and strategic importance of the change will be introduced to them. In the second phase where the top management will already be convinced about the required change, the middle management will be taken into confidence, at this stage the vendors will also be made part of the process so that they are aware of their role in the organization. This stage will also be comprising the rough drafts of the change. In this process all the vendors and relevant departs will be encouraged to give their feedback about the suggested changes moreover their suggestion will also be noted for any improvement. All this discussion and delegation will create the sense of ownership in management and their feedback will make them realize that this is something for their own benefit and they will start owing it. Once the ownership is there, the barriers to change will start reducing it and fear of unknown will be removed. With this process the implementation of the strategic change will be made successful and finally the concerned departments will also be provided with the required training. Conclusion In this report I have discusses various kinds of supply chain strategies and use of information technology to improve the supply chain. The organization selected for the analysis was Nestle Pakistan, and their supply chain strategies were discussed briefly. The organization is having impressive supply chain management however they need to concentrate on two dimensions. One solution being the concentration on making the vendors partners of the organization. Second solution being increasing the use of information technology tools to manage their vendor relationships.

The Patriot Act Protects America Essay -- Argumentative Persuasive Arg

The Patriot Act Protects America Since September 11, 2001 many people can say that America has changed.   Many people question if America has changed for the better or has it just gotten worse. Since the day those four planes crashed around the United States people’s lives have been changed. Many may not realize how their lives have changed, but with new laws passed life is different within America. The United States Patriot Act is one of the laws passed after 9/11: singed into order on October 26, 2001 just 45 days after the attack. The United States Patriot Act was put in place in order to protect Americans, yet has been affecting American’s civil liberties and caused controversy all over the United States. The U.S. Patriot Act was set in place to better serve our country against terrorism.   The U.S. Patriot Act is an Acronym for Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Acts (Lithwick).   This act is to punish terrorist actions and improve law enforcement not only in the United States but also around the world. The United States Patriot Act consists of over 1,000 sections that describe the act in great detail.   The sections include, but are not limited to, the power extended to the government by The U.S. Patriot Act to deport and incarcerate non citizens. With the U.S. Patriot Act a person’s phone line can be tapped, records of any and all purchases checked, and even library records searched.   This Act also has sections to help money laundering, expand our country’s border protection, strengthening the extent of criminal laws and provide for people suffering from any type of terrorism acts (Huf fman).    Some Americans think the U.S. Patriot Act goes ag... ...never demolish terrorism but they can help make laws to prevent it. The U.S. Patriot Act is clearly defined and understandable. Even though there are pros and cons to the act it is in the government’s best interest to help keep America safe and keep our civil liberties intact.   Works Cited * Fahrenheit 9/11. Dir. Michael Moore. Videocassette. Dog Eat Dog, 2004. * Huffman, Ryan , David Lloyd, and Jason Pollard. Pros of the Patriot Act. 2001. 8 Nov. 2004 .   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚      * Keen, Judy. Home Page. 20 Apr. 2004. 5 Nov. 2004 . * Lithwick, Dahlia, and Julia Turner.   "From a Guide to the Patriot Act."   Slate.   1994.  Ã‚   * Townshend, Mike, and Maddie Trier. "Patriot Debate." State News 10 Nov. 2004, sec. A: 2+8.

Politics of Health in America Essay

The healthcare system in America is one of the hot button issues in this and every election because things are only getting worse, while not coming close to getting better. Rising healthcare costs are bringing brought on by huge hospitals that can charge as much as they want for service. Compounding the problem is the fact that many Americans cannot afford healthcare insurance in order to foot the bill for their expensive care. As the Michael Moore film, Sicko, indicates, the healthcare crisis in America is far reaching and there does not seem to be a solution on the horizon. With more and more people missing out on insurance because of basic primal greed from hospitals and insurance companies, there exists a huge problem that is sure to hinder the development of American society. Facing the biggest problems in light of this healthcare crisis are women, who need a more advanced form of care than their male counterparts. Without access to healthcare insurance, millions of women are not able to acquire the medical care that is essential to their overall health.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The American healthcare system is one that is designed to rely primarily on health insurance. Without health insurance, a majority of both basic and advanced medical procedures would not be possible for any people. The primary problem with the system is that now, health insurance companies are not doing their job anymore. Instead of being an affordable option for common people who seek to protect themselves against medical emergency, these companies are now in the business of gouging patients and withholding insurance to those that are less fortunate. The American model is not the prevailing system that is used elsewhere in the world. In places like Canada and in most of Europe, nationalized healthcare is the order of the day. Those governments do not mess around with insurance companies and they make sure that healthcare is readily available to anyone that needs it. This is an expensive, but effective way to make sure that each person is cared for. Women are specifically targeted for care under European models. In England, the national healthcare system has seen some problems, but for the most part, the nationalized nature of the system makes sure that just about anyone that needs treatment can get that treatment.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The issue at the heart of the healthcare debate is over the uninsured folks that have a hard time securing healthcare. In the United States, that number is steadily growing with each passing year. This is something that Michael Moore is quick to point out in his film and it is an essential part of the argument for a national healthcare system. According to a July article from the Associated Press, â€Å"Just this past week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated there are about 43.6 million uninsured people in the country† (AP). Though that number does not represent a majority of the population, it is a significant portion of a civilized country that would have absolutely no way of getting healthcare in case of a medical emergency. Should cancer strike any of that contingent of Americans, they would have no way of coming up with the thousands of dollars for treatment.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another important healthcare consideration that is taken into account in Michael Moore’s film is the disparity between the rich and the poor. This is what is really at the heart of the matter. Those with money can afford to purchase the insurance that will protect them, while those without money cannot afford insurance. Making it even worse is the fact that the jobs that give the benefit of included healthcare insurance are the jobs that actually pay people enough to afford insurance. Presidential candidate Barack Obama has taken a stance on the issue and he has clearly defined the need for more healthcare for the poor in the United States. A January Washington Post article sheds light on Obama’s opinion on the matter. In that article, Nedra Pickler writes, â€Å"He (Obama) said it’s wrong that 46 million in this country are uninsured when the country spends more than any one else on health care. He said Americans pay $15 billion in taxes to help care for the uninsured† (Pickler). Obama has put a specific focus on the medical plight of poor women, who are often the biggest victims in the entire ordeal. Without a national healthcare system, the rising cost of women’s care in America makes it impossible for a large chunk of the country’s ladies to keep up.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   For those that do not have a huge amount of understanding on women’s care and how involved it is, the situation is a difficult one to understand. While men can get away with not going to the doctor for a period of months or years, women have to have check-ups in order to stay healthy enough to have children. This must be a huge focus for American society, especially as fertility rates keep falling for women in the country. Doctors are becoming much more specialized in this day and age, so their services are costing more. Gynecologists are no different, so insurance companies are being asked to pay more for that service. Even more important than the standard checkup is the entire situation of pregnancy. Women need to see a doctor every two to three weeks during pregnancy to make sure that everything is alright in their body and for their baby. This need comes in addition to the standard medical procedures that women must undertake to make sure that they stay in good condition.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Women are among the most neglected when it comes to insurance in the United States. This correlation between gender and income is an important statistic to consider when forming opinions about the plight of the national healthcare system. Though the current system was certainly not written in a way that it would intentionally preclude women, the reality of the situation has almost made it look that way. Median income levels are lower for women in American than they are for men. It is much more difficult for women, be they white, black, Hispanic or any other race, to get a high paying job or one that offers full healthcare benefits. Though insurance companies might be precluding women from involvement, pregnancy has not been nearly as kind. There is no discrimination when it comes to that, as a poor woman is just as likely to get pregnant as a rich woman. Still, adequate care must be provided through the process of pregnancy and such care cannot be provided without the proper healthcare protection. The Christiane Northup book, Women’s Body, Women’s Wisdom, breaks down pregnancy in the following terms. â€Å"Pregnancy is a miraculous process and should be a time when a woman makes every effort to tune in to her body and baby with the support of her surroundings. For centuries, midwives helped mothers through the pregnancy and birthing processes, standing by them with medical and emotional aid† (Northup). This quotation clearly shows the need for assistance in a number of different areas for women during pregnancy. It is something that cannot be ignored for many women, as they seek to have the best pregnancy possible.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another thing to consider in all of this is the plight of single mothers in America. Recent sociological trends are indicating that more and more women are having children out of wedlock. Without a man present to help foot the bill for pregnancy costs, women without healthcare have an even more difficult time coming up with the money to pay for their own care. This is a trend that does not seem to be going anywhere anytime soon, so it is imperative that the overriding problems get fixed before things get worse. Moore attacks this in Sicko, as he feels that single mothers are some of the biggest victims of the current healthcare system.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   According to Moore, single mothers are not the only victims in this situation. Though the politically correct notion is not to speak about race in regards to healthcare, the reality of the situation is that minority women are being left out at an alarming rate. An Amanda Gardner report in HealthDay speaks to the overall lackluster support that women have from the current healthcare system. Gardner writes, â€Å"No state met the goal for access to health insurance. Nationwide, 18 percent of women aged 18 to 64 were uninsured. In 2007, five states decreased Medicaid eligibility levels for working parents, making it more difficult for low-income people to get insurance† (Gardner). This trend has had a profound impact on minority mothers, who statistics show are working hard to provide for their children and also take care of themselves medically.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In his movie Sicko, Michael Moore does not shy away from the topic of women and how they are affected by the current healthcare system. In fact, Moore makes it a point to break down how they are often the most mistreated of any of the demographic areas. A Kyle Smith article in the New York Post makes a large effort to disparage the work of Michael Moore, but it does lend light on one example from Moore’s film where the focus is clearly placed upon mistreated women. In the article, Kyle Smith writes, â€Å"Perhaps the most absurd example is that of the woman who says that after she received benefits, the check was stopped because she had previously suffered an undisclosed yeast infection† (Smith). If the story from the woman in the film is true, then the problems within the system are so apparent and so flawed that securing healthcare is almost a hopeless venture for many women within the United States. Moore has harsh criticism for the current system in its exploitation of women financially. Because the current system is one that rewards doctors and insurance companies on the amount of work they can do, it directly impacts women. As mentioned previously, women have a greater reason to head to the doctor for a plethora of events. Under the current system, women are even discouraged from heading to the doctor in order to get the care that they so desperately need. Instead of going to the doctor to get care for themselves and their unborn children, women are being asked to limit their visits in an effort to save money. This is unfair and unsafe, according to Moore. His proposed implementation of a national healthcare system would take care of this issue, as it would shift the burden to all of the taxpayers and would insure that distribution of healthcare is on a need basis. That means that women would not feel pressured and they could head to the doctor’s office freely and without worry.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Michael Moore is not shy about offering up solutions for a better system. In his film, he specifically refers to the national healthcare systems used by much of Europe and Canada. He proposes that if America were to go to a taxpayer funded national healthcare system, like the one proposed by Obama, things would get much easier for women specifically. They would not only have unlimited care at their immediate disposal, but women would also have top notch care that is necessary. With fertility levels dropping and that causing problems to other national systems like Social Security, it is essential that the federal government takes action to help women protect themselves and their ability to have children. According to Moore, a federal system in which socialized medicine is offered will be the best scenario for women in the United States.   Works Cited Smith, Kyle. 19 June 2007. New York Post. Botched Operation: Crazy Moore Offers Wrong Prescription. http://www.nypost.com/seven/06192007/entertainment/movies/botched_operation_movies_kyle_smith.htm?page=0 Gardner, Amanda. 17 October 2007. HealthDay. U.S. Women’s Health Care Still Falls Short: Report. http://www.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=609217 Associated Press. 2 July 2007. Little Defense for U.S. Health Care of ‘Sicko’. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19552132/ Nedra, Pickler. The Associated Press. 25 January 2007. Obama Calls for Universal Health Care. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wpdyn/content/article/2007/01/25/AR2007012500764.html