My experiment Essay Example

My experiment Essay The aim of my experiment is to find the acceleration due to gravity otherwise known as g. To do this I could do an experiment that involves a pendulum and the formulawhich can be put into the equation of a straight line y=mx+c Another experiment I could undertake uses a trolley and ramp but a different formula involving mass, which again is put into the equation of a straight line.I am going to pursue the pendulum idea, as it was the original experiment used by Sir Isaac Newton whos value for the acceleration due to gravity still stands today (even with all our modern technology). The trolley and ramp idea seems insufficient as the trolley isnt really in free fall and the friction from the ramp would surely affect my results.I need to make a pendulum that: Has minimal friction at its pivot point, Can have its length easily changed and be accurately measured, Will not swing in a circle, Has a small set angle of swing (drop angle), Non elastic stemI propose two different ideas.Meccano idea: The rigid structure will stop the pendulum swinging in a circle. The even spaces mean that the length can be easily changed and easily measured. Using a wheel as a bob means that you can easily measure to the centre of it. Oil can be used to decrease friction at the pivot A protractor can be placed at the pivot and then the drop angle can be easily controlled. A light gate could be used to calculate oscillations more accurately.Double fishing line idea: The two points of contact will stop it swinging in a circle The line is almost massless which means it has little air resistance and has little negative affect on the experiment. The line can be clamped at the pivot and therefore has minimal friction. By measuring the line and marking divisions with a pen you can clamp the line at exactly the length you want, and easily slide it up and down to change it. Again a protractor can be used to control drop angle.Comparing the two ideas I find that:They both stop the pendulum swinging in a circle. This is important because I need to measure as accurately as possible the time period of a certain amount of oscillations. If the pendulum is swinging in a circle then the measurements will be less accurate. It could also collide with something, which would disrupt the experiment.They can both be measured accurately, although it is much easier to change the length of the meccano idea. The length is included in the formula, it will be one of the things used in calculating the acceleration due to gravity, and therefore needs to be measured as accurately as possible.The fishing line idea due to its clean crisp nature will have less friction at its pivot than the meccano idea. I would have to use oil for the pivot point of the meccano but it still involves the rubbing of metal against metal without bearings.They can both have their drop angle measured.The meccano idea could involve a light gate because its square shape will mean the light can be cut precisely whereas the f ishing line idea has a round bob with no definite cut of point and the fishing line is so thin it would not cut the light. As long as the cut of point is the same each time a light gate should be very accurate but it would take a lot of detailed co-ordination to achieve this. Also generally varying light levels occurring naturally in the room could affect the light gate. So as long as I work out my margin of error doing it manually would be just as accurate.Rigid pendulums are used in clocks so they must be accurate as timekeepers. Yet an Internet site (http: kossi.physics.home.edu/Courses/p23a/Experiaments/Pendulum.html) about the experiment stated that it recommended the use of a massless, inextensible string. All experiments I have seen also use some sort of string rather than a rigid structure.On this basis and previous reasoning I am going to use the fishing line idea.Apparatus: Fishing line Clip board clips Reasonably small cylindrical weight with attaching ring Two points of bearing so that the position of the bob at rest can be accurately seen when oscillating. Either a stand or clips from the ceiling or table. A stopwatch A protractor to measure the drop angle. A meter ruler or tape measure to measure the length of the pendulum.Fair test:There are three variables that could affect the result of my experiment. They are the drop angle the mass of the bob and the length of the pendulum. The two former are not included in the formula so should not affect the outcome of the experiment, non-the less I will keep them as constant as possible throughout my investigation.I will drop the pendulum from the same angle each time. This angle will be 10 degrees, anything more than that and the difference in amplitude of the oscillations will change more rapidly from the first to the last. This makes the time it takes for each different length of pendulum to complete the oscillations more variable.I will not move my experiment as not to change its set up between tests because this could affect my results.I will make sure that my pendulum stand is rigid so that it wont move and absorb some of the energy from the swing.Before I undergo the experiment I will use a computer program, which tests my reaction time, I can then work out the margin of error in my results. I will take the test 3 times and get an average I should be looking at something between 0.2 and 0.25 seconds.I will complete my experiments in a draft less area, as friction from a stream of air particles will have an adverse affect on the swing of the pendulum.Measurements:I will take measurements using a stop clock for the time it takes to complete 30 oscillations. This is enough to make human error and reaction time fairly insignificant but not too much so that the pendulum will stop before completion of its oscillations. In a book ( ) it recommends 50 oscillations and previous results show a successful experiment using only 20 so Im going for the middle ground. The stop clock will m easure accurately to 1/100th of a second, my reaction time after calculation will be somewhere between 0.2 and 0.25 of a second.I will measure the length of the pendulum but keep this as my controlled variable. I will measure from the pivot to the centre of the bob. The length measurements I will use will range from 10cm to 1m with divisions of 10cm. This means that from 0 there will be equal divisions, the graph will therefore look tidier and have a good range of results over an equal spread. I can measure with a tape measure precisely up to 0.1 of a centimetre (1.0mm).I will repeat my experiments 3 times and take an average. I will do this to check reliability, a small range in results means they are reliable.I will record my results in a table like this one: -Length of pendulum /mTime for 30 oscillations (s)Average period of time T/sTime for one length squared T2/s2EXP 1EXP 2EXP 30.100.200.300.400.500.600.700.800.901.00Detailed plan:; Find a suitable place to build the pendulum e ither from the ceiling, or on two stands between two tables to allow a meter of pendulum beneath them. A rigid structure is important otherwise energy is absorbed in the swaying of the stands.; Build the pendulum as shown in the picture on the previous page. By attaching the two clip board clips to something so that the distance between them does not change. Cut two pieces of fishing line longer than a meter and tie them both to a weight. Clip the line into the clipboard clips. Attach a protractor to one side so that the angle the pendulum is at can be seen from the other.; Use a smallish mass e.g. 50g so that the fishing line doesnt slide through the clipboard clips. Measure the length of the pendulum to be 10cm1.0mm When constructed hold the pendulum back to 10 degrees as shown on the protractor. Let go and at the same time start the stop clock. Count 30 oscillations and stop the clock. Note down the time on the chart in excel. Repeat the experiment another two times and note the results down on the chart. An average will automatically be calculated. Repeat with the next length e.g. 20cm1.0mm And then carry on until all lengths have been done 3 times. The results will automatically come up on a scatter graph in excel and should show a strait line.Safety:I will make sure any stands are fixed securely so that they wont fall on top of anyone.I will make sure the weight is secured tightly so that it wont fall of on to anyone.I will make sure everyone is clear of the pendulum so that it wont swing into anyone.I wont swing the pendulum past 10 degrees, as this is unsafe and may hit some one. Prediction:I predict my results will show that T2 is directly proportional to ; the gradient of the line will be around 4.00 and therefore a value for g can be calculated at 9.8ms-2 (2sf)Hypothesis:T2 will be directly proportional to because as the length of the pendulum increases so does its displacement therefore so dose the time it takes.I predict this because Isaac Newton whom the story goes, had an apple fall on his head, recorded from theory that all objects had a gravitational pull or gravitational field strength due to the fact that masses attract. He successfully calculated using the pendulum experiment that the acceleration due to gravity was 9.81ms-2. The reason my results will not necessarily come up with this exact figure is because there will be a degree of uncertainty. This will be due to the accuracy of my measuring ability, which will be controlled by the equipment I use and in some case my reaction time.Another factor that plays a role in calculating g is where you are on the earth; In some places you weigh less than in others. This is due to things like the density of the rock that you are standing on. Igneous rock on continental plates, which is denser than others types will make g larger where as sedimentary rock on oceanic plates which is less dense than other types will cause a smaller value of g. If this is so then doing the exper iment out at sea or elevated from the ground on a high-rise building will also have a different value for g. You also have to take into account gravitational pull from the sun and moon or even other smaller bodies of mass like say the walls in the room the experiment is undertaken. These will all pull the pendulum an opposite way to the effect from the earths gravitational field strength. Generally the affect is so small the apparatus I will be using wont pick up any difference in results. And I dont have enough funds to go travelling the world.ImplementingChanges I made to my plan while implementing where:Instead of using a protractor to measure a 10 degree drop angle, I drew this angle on to a piece of card so that I could see it clearly and therefore measure more accurately the angle at which I was dropping the pendulum each time.Because my pendulum involved two points of contact the fishing line could not just be measured from the clip to the bob to gain a value for length, as t his would have been incorrect. Instead I had to measure the distance from the ground to the bottom of the clip (155.5cm) and make sure this value was the same on both sides by adjusting the clamps. I would then measure from the ground to the centre of the bob and take it away from 155.5cm to gain the value for length.Although I said I would not move the pendulum structure as not to affect the results, due to the time it took to build my structure I could not finish my experiment in the first sitting. I had to move it to keep it safe. I took measurements so that I could put it back in almost the same place for the next sitting.Observing and recordingHere are the results that I collected from my experiments:Length of pendulum (/m)Time for 30 oscillations (s)Standard deviationAverage period of time (T/s)Time for one length squared (Tà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½/sà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½)Increment (s)EXP 1EXP 2EXP 30.1018.8218.8418.820.0118.830.390.390.2027.0527.0027.020.0327.020.810.420.3032.9633.0133.010.0332.99 1.210.400.4038.2238.2238.180.0238.211.620.410.5042.5342.4642.560.0542.522.010.390.6046.6646.7546.750.0546.722.430.420.7050.3450.2850.350.0450.322.810.390.8053.8953.7553.870.0853.843.220.410.9057.0656.9957.090.0557.053.620.401.0061.5459.2060.161.1860.304.040.42While implementing my experiment I added two more columns to my chart. The standard deviation column was added so that I could see weather my result taking was reliable and then make a decision on whether to repeat them or not. The increment column was added so that I could see how close to a straight line my results were heading. Both of these additions allowed me to see while doing the experiment whether I was doing it right and therefore whether I had to change anything.The results in green where results that I repeated, and the results in red are ones which I have earmarked for closer evaluation due to the large standard deviation from them. The green results for 0.1m were all repeated because the first time I collected the m I counted every swing as an oscillation, therefore only timing it for half the oscillations it should have completed. It there had a much lower result for time period than is shown in green (in fact only half that). I could have doubled the result but that would have been bad practise, wind resistance may have slowed down that second half of oscillations, which I would not have observed.For the time period of the oscillations I wrote down the results to two decimal places because I wanted to have the level of precision given by the stop clock. Because of this in all other calculations originating from the time period of the oscillations I also used two decimal places.Interpretation and EvaluationFrom the chart I made a graph on excel which plotted time squared (Tà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½/sà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½) against length (/m). I expected to see a straight line with strong positive correlation through (0,0) because it is directly proportional.This graph shows that time squared is directly proportio nal to the length of the pendulum. This is because of simple harmonic motion caused by the pull of gravity. If the graph was just time against length it would be a curve. I can now work out the acceleration due to gravity but first I have to put the equation that relates T2 to length into the formula for a straight line.y=mx+cI then used the gradient, 4.03 to eventually find a value for g.Theory shows that the value for c (the intercept) should be 0 because the line is directly proportional. Although my result for c is a very tiny way off 0 it is too small to be used in the calculation. The reason it does not follow theory is because of an error in the measuring of the length. There are many reasons why that may be. One reason is that because of the long-winded way I had to measure the length of the pendulum there was much room for small errors, like whether the ground was all level. Another reason could be that because my bob had a small extension above its main body its centre of gravity would not have been exactly at its main body centre, this would mean a slight error in measuring the length each time. I could work out the bobs centre of gravity and if I had more time thats what I would do to extend this experiment. But now I am quite happy with knowing that my value for g is not affected by this small error. If I were to do the experiment again I would take more time and caution when measuring and maybe find a better more accurate way to do it. I would use a bob that could be described as a point weight or work out the centre of gravity for an irregular weight.Degree of uncertainty:I am going to round my value of gravity to 2 significant figures. This gives me a value for g at 9.8ms-2 and a percentage error of compared to the accepted value of 9.81ms-2. To find out where this percentage error came from I have to trace back and work it out from the limitations of my measuring equipment.Actual error for time0.15sActual error for length0.001mLength of P (/m) Average period of time (T/s)Percentage error for T (%)Time for one length squared (T2/s2)Percentage error for T2 (%)Actual error for T2 (s2)0.1018.830.800.391.590.010.2027.020.560.811.110.010.3032.990.451.210.910.010.4038.210.391.620.790.010.5042.520.352.010.710.010.6046.720.322.430.640.020.7050.320.302.810.600.020.8053.840.283.220.560.020.9057.050.263.620.530.021.0060.300.254.040.500.02* Actual error for time is 0.01s for the limitation of the stop clock + 0.14s for the variance in my reaction time. If it takes you 0.2 seconds to react to the dropping of the pendulum and then 0.2 seconds to react to it finishing its final oscillation then the two cancel each other out. The problem is you dont have the same reaction time each occasion you stop or start the clock. To find out my minimum and maximum reaction time I used a computer program and found that my fastest result was 0.19s and my slowest was 0.26s a 0.07 second difference. This means that there is a 0.14 second uncertainty, 0. 07 at the start and 0.07 at the end.* To find the percentage uncertainty for time I divided the actual error by the average time and then multiplied this by 100.* To find the percentage error for time squared I multiplied the percentage error for time by two.* To find the actual error for time squared I divided the T2 by 100 and then multiplied this by the percentage error for T2.* The actual error for length is due to the limitation of the measuring equipment and means that I can only measure accurately up to one millimetre.To find out the percentage error of my result for g I need to now draw another graph with error bars, then from this find the maximum and minimum possible values of the gradient. After that I will use the formula to work out a value for the acceleration due to gravity using the lowest gradient and then the same with the highest gradient. From that I can then work out a percentage error.From the graph you can see that my two values for g were 9.99ms-2 and 9.62ms- 2 this gives me an actual error of 0.2ms-2 rounded to one significant figure and a percentage error of 2%.This shows that the true value for g lies within the percentage error of mine 9.8ms-22%. These errors came from the accuracy of the equipment that I was using or the accuracy of my ability to read of the results from the equipment. If I wanted to eradicate any hint of error caused by reaction time in any future experiments I could use a light gate to record the time taken for oscillations. This is a device that when the light is disrupted records a result on a computer. I had previously disregarded this idea because it was not suited to my experiment but Im sure that in future I could adapt it.Correlation:I know that my gradient produced an accurate value for g taking into account the percentage error, but what about each individual result for time. How accurate are they? How strong is there correlation? And what could I have done to make them more accurate? I researched a formu la that could be used to calculate correlation called the: -Product Moment Correlation Coefficient:With the help of a graphic calculator I worked this out to be 0.99997431 (à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ 1) in a scale where 1 is absolute positive correlation and 0 is no correlation it is quite clear that these results bear a very strong positive correlation.Although the correlation is strong there is a reasonable amount of standard deviation between my 3 repeats of each length of pendulum. From my table of results you can see that generally the longer the pendulum the greater the standard deviation, especially on the last length highlighted in red. I suggest that the longer the pendulum swings for the more friction air resistance and any other external effects affect it. The reason that the last result was so far different was, I think, because the table that my experiment sat was knocked during the taking of one result. This would have meant some of the energy from the swing would have been absorbed in the swaying of the table and structure.You can also see from the increment that there wasnt a perfect step up in results this could be due to the unevenness of the floor, which I was measuring the length from. The way I was measuring the angle left a small margin for error each time I dropped the pendulum. The fishing line could have slipped a bit on some results although it was held quite firmly it was held by the spring tension of a metal clip board clip rather then say a fixed clamp. Due to the fact that the experiment took me a while to set up (mainly because of trying to solve my angle measuring problem) I didnt get to finish all the result taking in one session. Although I tried my best using measurements to set it up exactly the same in the next session the results may have been affected. Though looking at my chart there is no uniform alteration in increment or standard deviation, which would support this. To improve my experiment for next time I would pay more attention to detail when measuring the angle of swing and do all the result taking in one session.One other factor that may have caused a small anomaly in my value for the acceleration due to gravity is as I explained in my plan the difference in the Earths gravitational field strength. Because the different density of the earth at different points it dose not have a uniform gravitational field strength and the place where I conducted my experiment may have a different value for g than the place Newton conducted his. (I must note that this anomaly will only be tiny but very interesting if I wanted to extend my experiment any further)Conclusion:I conclude that my result for the acceleration due to gravity of 9.8ms-2 reflects an accurate attempt at supporting the value discovered by Sir Isaac Newton. The 2% uncertainty that I gained from the limitations of my measuring equipment due to their accuracy show that Newtons value lies within the boundaries of mine. If I were to do the experiment agai n and follow all the modifications that I have stated then I am sure that I could if not only repeat the level of accuracy shown by my result of g to 2 significant figures maybe even find it to 3 (9.81ms-2).Furthering my investigation:To further my investigation I could find out the effect on time period by changing mass (although I know from Newton who stated that the time period is independent of mass or swing length, the fact that they are not in the formula supports this).I could complete the experiment in different parts of the world where I know the density of rock beneath me is different to see if I could gain different results for g. My experiment would have to have been refined to great perfection though so as to notice any change.I could investigate the simple pendulum as a parametric oscillator by changing either its length or acceleration due to gravity during oscillations as to keep it swinging at a constant rate.

Essay on Managing through Continuous Improvement

Essay on Managing through Continuous Improvement Essay on Managing through Continuous Improvement This is a free sample essay on Managing through Continuous Improvement: The corporate world in the new economic environment is experiencing a paradigm shift in management thought, where human resources have become the key asset of an organization and strategic human resource management is recognized as an important element to achieve competitive advantage. The emerging scenario is highly complex, necessitating speed, flexibility, precision, quality and willingness and the ability to change for survival and success. This involves the formulation of a strategy to reorient organizational cultures to bring about openness, transparency, and mutual trust and healthy competition among employees. The colour and complexion of industry has changed due to changes in technology and expansion of world markets. While organizations in he past had relatively stable and predictable environments, todays organizations have to cope with the unexpected. The development of a positive work culture, where employees work as teams, is perhaps one of the best ways to manage change. An increased number of human resource professionals have been included in the top management of Companies. This has led to a qualitative improvement in human resource interventions. Human resource management is being used as a business development tool. This includes the following initiatives taken by various organizations: Imparting new skills and upgrading existing ones through training and managerial conferences, encouraging creativity and identifying fresh talent. Infusing professionalism and dynamism, building a learning organizations, promoting corporate values, opening communication channels, designing accurate job description, monitoring achievements, giving incentives to encourage productivity, etc. With globalization and technological changes feeding each other, business paradigms have undergone a major shift. Information technology has resulted in flatter structures and less hierarchical control in organization. Competition has places several demands on Companies, especially in terms of revamping the organization to meet contemporary needs. In the current Indian scenario, while public services are being privatized, private sector organizations are also in the process of re-examining their structures and job roles. Traditional hierarchies are making way for innovative structure to manage organizations. ______________ is a professional essay writing service which can provide high school, college and university students with 100% original custom written essays, research papers, term papers, dissertations, courseworks, homeworks, book reviews, book reports, lab reports, projects, presentations and other assignments of top quality. More than 700 professional Ph.D. and Master’s academic writers. Feel free to order a custom written essay on Management from our professional essay writing service.

Theory, Operationalization, and Observation Essay

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Sony - Case Study Example A critical analysis of this project discloses various value drivers as well as cost drivers. Tawfik and Enders define value created as the difference between alleged use value which is positively influenced by value drivers, and real costs increased by cost drivers. Use of UMTS technology and handset, applications that promote interaction and individualization are seen to promote the products quality, with UMTS technology also advancing speed and thus improve value. The implementation of the project comes together with some extra cost. However, it is worth noting that the increase in value is still larger than the increase in cost. For this reason Sony focused on capturing the value e which calls off for a wise tradeoff between consumer surplus and producer surplus; given that the company does not operate in a monopolistic market. Moreover, following the advancement in Sony’s operation with time, there is need t to include in the case study some other operations such as virtua l payment fee which Sony has recently introduced to capture the real value of their

Evaluating Design Choice and Threats to Validity in an Experimental Coursework

Evaluating Design Choice and Threats to Validity in an Experimental Design - Coursework Example er had selected the quasi design because the research was taking the shape of an experimental research that was going to involve an educational experimentation on the impact of a 2-tier curriculum on the academic performance of students. In quasi design, the most outstanding difference that is observed from other forms of designs is in the selection of respondents because quasi design lacks the fundamental ingredients of random assignment of respondents (Wade et al, 2009). The quasi design was selected based on a number of factors. The first has to do with the fact that the researcher was undertaking an educational experiment and thought that the quasi design was going to ensure accessibility to respondents since there was going to be a very large population to deal with. It has been noted that in situations were there are large populations for the researcher to deal with; working with quasi design reduces the total amount of work that the researcher has to do in a random sampling pr ocedure. Therefore, it was easier for the present researcher to select just a class and use the register system to select the sample size. Another reason behind the author’s rationale for quasi design was in the fact that the quasi design presented itself with the opportunity to undertake individual case studies whiles addressing the original research problem. Such integrated case studies were necessary in testing the variables to the latter. Finally, quasi generally aided in the reduction of overall time and resource needed to complete the research (Broadwings, 2009). This was an important rationale because the researcher was undertaking an academic research that was time bound. Having selected the quasi design, the researcher outlined a number of validities of the research. The first type of validity presented was in the background of the respondents, all of who the researcher noted was having the same educational background and so had an equal chance of meeting the variables set.

Barriers In Multicultural Communication

Barriers In Multicultural Communication It means the established beliefs, social norms, values, material traits, and behavior patterns transmitted from people to people that differentiate groups of people. Cultural backdrop affects how individuals communicate and how they deduce messages received from others. Multicultural Perspectives Being aware that miscommunication can arise due to ethnicity, age, gender, race and physical disability, and much other dissimilarity such as religious and lifestyle is the first step towards better multicultural communication. Larger cultural multiplicity in the organizations and workplaces increase the need for understanding how cultural background affects communication. Communication Barriers in Multicultural Communication Communication barriers most of the time hamper the quality of communication when you are interacting with people from cultures other than your own. These barriers include:- 1. Cultural Relativism and Ethnocentrism 2. Lack of Knowledge and Understanding of Cultures 3. Discriminatory and Harassment 4. Language Differences Now lets study these barriers in detail. Cultural Relativism and Ethnocentrism Cultural relativism compares the norms and conducts of different cultures and usually means evaluating them against standards of whats wrong and whats right. This approach to other cultures becomes an obstacle when you presume that cultural norms, customs and conducts are not right if they differ from those of your culture. Ethnocentrism is the natural idea that your own cultural tradition and values are right and superior. People around the world are ethnocentric to an extent. Norms, customs, and conducts that are different from those of your culture may seem unusual, abnormal and sometimes even wrong. Lack of Knowledge and Understanding of Cultures Although a particular culture may usually demonstrate similar behaviors or attributes, this does not mean all individuals in that culture are similar. People establish stereotypes when they presume that certain norms, values or attributes typical of a particular culture define all members of that culture group. Stereotypes are an outcome due to limited knowledge of cultural diversity. An understanding of various cultures means to be fully aware that individuals within each culture may have some resemblance and some variations. It means responding to people as individuals while understanding that cultural backdrops and experiences impact behavior and communication. Discriminatory and Harassment Discrimination is demonstrating partiality toward or hurtful elimination or rejection of people because of cultural or any other differences. Business communication between the sexes demands a clear understanding of remarks and actions that could be interpreed as sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is undesirable behavior of a sexual nature or with sexual implications. It may occur for men as well as women. Language Differences Language can also be a barrier to communication. An increase in multicultural interactions presents language challenges. When organizations communicate with the large number of people who speak the languages other than English misunderstandings may occur. Non verbal language influences the receivers understanding and acceptance of a spoken message. In multicultural business communication, non verbal signs vary as much as spoken languages do. Nonverbal greetings can be anything from a bow to a handshake or from a hug to an upward flick of the eyebrows. Misunderstanding or misinterpretation of cultural differences in nonverbal messages causes communication problems. Communicating in High or Low Context Cultures Traditionally, high-context countries place high value on relationships and prefer indirect communication when carrying out business. 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Informal, frequent smiles, and frequent use of hand gestures and facial expressions Preference to long term relationships and underlying messages. Temporary personal relationships. Long term view of time. Short term view of time. Appointments are generally considered flexible. Emphasis on appointments on time, management of schedules, and punctuality are given high preference. Vague and non confrontational language is preferred. Focus on getting a job done, being specific, and goal attainment. Honor and respect more important than business; adjourn power and position Personal relationships not considered that much; ideas and people are assumed as equals. Private networks are used to obtain information. Information is made accessible readily, shared with others. Values family and group authority Individualism valued. Multicultural communication guidelines You can become an effective multicultural communicator if you follow a few simple guidelines. Understanding our own culture Communication with others can be improved by increasing awareness of your own culture and its influences on your beliefs, values, and behavior patterns. We have to understand that our cultural background and experiences shape what we think, what we value, and how we communicate. Keep an open mind and respect diversity Learn about other cultures, beliefs, and customs without judging them by our own cultural identity and unexamined biases. These is not to suggest that we change our beliefs or disrespect our own culture, but rather that we acknowledge that cultural norms affect values and conducts and that understanding how others interpret verbal and nonverbal language helps our communication receive the intended response. However, avoid accepting stereotypes that assume that characteristics that may apply to some people in a particular culture are characteristic of all individuals in that culture. Identify and adapt to language differences When we are communicating with persons from another culture, we should try to learn how that cultures verbal and nonverbal languages differ from your own. Examine and understand the meaning of nonverbal communication signal such as facial expressions, social distance for conversing, and hand gestures. Offensive non verbal gestures should always be avoided. Now that we have adequate knowledge about cross cultural communication, barriers in cross cultural communication and guidelines to be followed for better cross cultural communication, we can now discuss the aspects of the Japanese culture one would wish to observe and understand in order to avoid problems of cross-cultural communication. Japanese Non-Verbal Communication 1. The Japanese pull out all the stops for peace and are dependent on group; they use non verbal gestures such as facial expression, tone of voice and posture to tell interpret what someone feels. 2. The Japanese frequently trust non-verbal messages more than the spoken word as a single word can mean various things. 3. Frowning when someone is speaking is taken as a sign of disagreement. 4. Most Japanese maintain an impassive expression when speaking. 5. Expressions to watch out for include inhaling through clenched teeth, tilting the head, scratching the back of the head, and scratching the eyebrow. 6. Non-verbal communication is so vital that there is a book for foreigners on how to interpret the signs. 7. It is considered disrespectful to stare into another persons eyes, particularly those of a person who is senior to you because of age or status. 8. In crowded situations the Japanese avoid eye contact to give themselves privacy. Relationships Communication 1. The Japanese prefer to do business on the basis of personal relationships. 2. In general, being introduced or recommended by someone who already has a good relationship with the company is extremely helpful as it allows the Japanese to know how to place you in a hierarchy relative to themselves. 3. Build and maintain relationships with greetings / seasonal cards. 4. It is important to be a good correspondent as the Japanese hold this in high esteem. Business Meeting Etiquette 1. Appointments are required and, whenever possible, should be made several weeks in advance. 2. It is best to telephone for an appointment rather than send a letter, fax or email. 3. Punctuality is important. Arrive on time for meetings and expect your Japanese colleagues will do the same. 4. Since this is a group society, even if you think you will be meeting one person, be prepared for a group meeting. 5. The most senior Japanese person will be seated furthest from the door, with the rest of the people in descending rank until the most junior person is seated closest to the door. 6. It may take several meetings for your Japanese counterparts to become comfortable with you and be able to conduct business with you. Business Negotiation 1. The Japanese are non-confrontational. 2. They have a difficult time saying no, so you must be vigilant at observing their non-verbal communication. 3. It is best to phrase questions so that they can answer yes. For example, do you disagree with this? Group decision-making and consensus are important. 4. Written contracts are required. 5. The Japanese often remain silent for long periods of time. Be patient and try to work out if your Japanese colleagues have understood what was said. 6. Japanese prefer broad agreements and mutual understanding so that when problems arise they can be handled flexibly. 7. Using a Japanese lawyer is seen as a gesture of goodwill. Note that Japanese lawyers are quite different from Western lawyers as they are much more functionary. 8. Never lose your temper or raise your voice during negotiations. 9. Some Japanese close their eyes when they want to listen intently. Dress Etiquette 1. Business attire is conservative. 2. Men should wear dark-colored, conservative business suits. 3. Women should dress conservatively.

The History, Theory, and Evolution of Magical Realism Essay -- Literat

The History, Theory, and Evolution of Magical Realism      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   What comes to mind when one hears the word "magical"? He or she probably thinks of charms, spells, wizards, and disappearing doves. The term "Realism" may represent the everyday world-that with which we are already familiar. Could these two words ever be coupled together to represent one idea? Magical Realism represents the marriage of these two words. A name originally given to a new art form in the early twentieth century, Magical Realism evolved into a literary genre and now represents much more-an attitude, the window through which to view the world, a philosophy of life. By examining the history, theory, and evolution of Magical Realism, this term, seemingly an oxymoron, will make sense. The term Magical Realism is thought by most critics to have originated in the early twentieth century as a new art form. Franz Roh, to whom we attribute having coined the term, describes this "new" art form in his 1925 article "Magical Realism: Post Expressionism." Roh defines Magical Realism through a chronological examination of artistic styles preceding this "new art." The two periods on which he focuses primarily are Impressionism and Expressionism. Impressionism, which preceded Expressionism, focused on the artists' desire to portray something that existed in reality. An artist may examine the texture, light, or the shapes of an object. The portrayal was simply a caricature of reality, with no significant meaning or stimulation other than the obvious, realistic qualities with which viewers were already familiar. Expressionism, in contrast, sought to portray something with a very deep meaning, refusing to portray reality because it was too mundane and familiar. Intelle... ... Works Cited Chanady, Amaryll. "The Territorialization of the Imaginary in Latin America: Self-Affirmation and Resistance to Metropolitan Paradigms." Magical Realism: Theory, History, Community. Ed. Lois Parkinson Zamora and Wendy B. Faris. Durham, N.C.: Duke UP, 1995: 125-144. Flores, Angel. "Magical Realism in Spanish American Fiction." Magical Realism: Theory, History, Community. Ed. Lois Parkinson Zamora and Wendy B. Faris. Durham, N.C.: Duke UP, 1995: 109-117. Leal, Luis. "Magical Realism in Spanish American Literature." Magical Realism: Theory, History, Community. Ed. Lois Parkinson Zamora and Wendy B. Faris. Durham, N.C.: Duke UP, 1995: 119-124. Roh, Franz. "Magic Realism: Post-Expressionism." Magical Realism: Theory, History, Community. Ed. Lois Parkinson Zamora and Wendy B. Faris. Durham, N.C.: Duke UP,1995: 15-31.   

High School Life Essay

Ask any teenager today and they will tell you that they are nothing like their parents, that their parents just don’t understand them. This may be true and this may be false, it just depends on how you look at it. Teenagers of the Rebel Without a Cause, meaning the parents of today’s teens, did face a lot of the same problems and issues that we now face. Yet I am left thinking did the past teens face all the same problems at the same time as we do and were some of their â€Å"problems† not as much of a problem as it is to us. Teens from the past and present are faced with problems such as school, relationships, and friends. There were many teenage problems back then in â€Å"Rebel Without a Cause† and today’s teenagers. Most of these problems that Jim Stark and the other teens faced were similar, but my own belief is that these same problems were not as big of problem back when they were growing up. Let’s take school and homework for example, oh sure your parents had it too but I just don’t believe that there was as much pressure upon them to get good grades. Also, get into a good college as there is for us. And of course with the knowledge that college is right around the corner most teens also need to work. They need to save money for college, or a car, or to make the girl/boy of their dreams happy by taking them out on dates once in a while. Plus, all this pressure and work can build up for a teen and to most of us it seems like we never have a chance to just relax and hang out with friends anymore. It relates to the movie because some of the teens do not care about homework or going to school. The reason is that was back then it was easy to get a job by only having a high school diploma with no college education. But, now in our teen lives it is hard to get a job with a high school diploma. Another thing that is different from the past from the present is the fashion that students wear. In the past, boys wear plain regular clothes and the cool guys always wear black jackets or blazers. It is similar like what a gang member usually wears right now. Except the gangs have their baggy pants or shorts and show their boxers in black or white. It is weird how those kind of guys like to show-off their boxers or underwear. For the girls in the past, they all mostly put on dresses. Now girls mostly wear skirts or short shorts. Plus, girls always try to put on the sexiest clothes to wear because to get all the attention and be popular. Like in the movie, Jim Stark wears different clothes from his classmates. The reason is that he moved to a lot of different high schools because he never made any friends and doesn’t fit in with the other teens. Also, in every high school he went to the teens called Jim, â€Å"Chicken†. Why he is called that because the teenagers see him acting like a chicken, when Jim does not want to get into trouble. I think back then music for teens like, â€Å"Rebel Without a Cause†, probably listened to rock and roll. But now teens prefer rapping and hip hop music. It’s interesting how music has changed so much in the past because teens loved to get crazy on rock and roll. I wonder how teens will react if music never came to rock and roll. Probably teens will make their own music or have to try out their parent’s music, which were more hip hop and dance music. Now teens today have a mix of genres they like to listen. Most teens in the present relate their music to their emotions. The reason is because they must have some problems in their lives and music helps teens release stress. Plus, I am sure that it happens to the teens in the past except not big problems compare to our teen years. I bet Jim Stark and his classmates love to listen to rock and roll. Even though it does not show in the movie that they played rock and roll, but back then there was a lot of rock and roll. The teens in the early years prefer rock and roll because it was something they can be themselves with their friends. Sometimes parents cannot stand their teen’s music and tells them to turn it off or take it away from them. It is weird how in the movie, it shows parents like Jim’s parents how they do not care about his school issues. For instance, when Jim’s classmates call him chicken, he tells them to stop and be angry to his parents. Then Jim’s parents decide to move somewhere else again, which happen several times. Jim does not want that because he thinks it is going to happen all over again. So, basically Jim’s parents do not really help him and his life that much. But comparing to today’s teens, Jim’s parents and other parents show more concern for each of their son/daughter’s education to make them successful in life. I can see that every year new parents learn from their past seeing their mom and dad on how they take care of their son or daughter. Then later on the new parents learn from their parent’s mistakes and become a better parent. There are things that are similar between our time and the movie, â€Å"Rebel Without a Cause†. One is that teens hate doing homework and waking up early for school. Teens in the past and present struggle with their emotions like in relationships or family issues. Jim shows his emotions to his parents in the movie. He tells them how he feels every time when he transfers to a new school and he is not good at making any relationships or friends. The main reason is everyone calls him chicken because he is different from his classmates and they think he is afraid of them. I just want to say that I am not saying that teenagers of the past did not have their own problems, but of course they did, every single teen alive faces problems that they think is hard and that their whole world is crumbling down around them well at least once in a while. But now that they have grown up and turned into the parents of today’s teenagers I feel that they put more pressure upon their own teenage child in order for them to achieve more than they were able to. A common expression is, â€Å"My parents are so strict, overprotective, or too involved in my life, because they don’t want me making the same mistakes they did when they were my age but they need to trust me and just leave me alone. † And that expression can sometimes is kind of true. But all in all I feel that our parents do understand what we, as teenagers, are going through because they did face the same problems that we face today, but maybe with just a little less pressure.

Alternate energy

Alternate energy – the solution to our depleting natural resources. A viable way to counter the effects of global warming. But is it really so? Every argument has its own pros and cons and we need to study both the sides before reaching on a hasty conclusion. As with all other discussions, the discussion centering around alternate energy sources has its own handful of proponents and opponents. Alternate energy sources are hailed the most due to their inexpensive and less polluting nature. Alternate energy sources are those which can be substituted for fossil fuels and include biofuels.Biofuels include among them vegetable oils, ethanol and methanol. As against fossil fuels, non renewable energy sources do not have a limited supply and hence their usage is not feared to bring about a rapid exhaustion of the resources. Careful studies of nonrenewable sources have made scientists to predict about possible exhaustion of these resources in coming century. The Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources puts an the lifetime of conventional oil to be only 32 years more, while its estimates about natural gas show that it will last 65 years more.This is one of the reasons that renewable resources are so much sought after now since the continuance of our work processes depending on these resources, is not threatened by their diminishing supply. Scientific studies have already revealed how the use of non renewable sources has proved to be hazardous to not just the environment but also the health of the population. This paper will discuss multiple sides of the issues of using these alternate energy sources. These issues are economic, ethical, social and environmental. We will discuss how the use of alternate energy sources will lead to less of global warming.In the environmental context, fossil fuels have been proven to be hazardous to nature and health. The environment is at great stake if we continue to use these fossil fuels. The combustion of fossil fuels leads to a number of pollutions ranging from water and land pollution to air pollution. It is held today that the highest amount of environmental pollution can be attributed to none other than the combustion of these fuels. The smog caused by the combustion of these fuels can not only cause human sickness but can also be dangerous to the sustainability of crops.Similarly, the release of carbon dioxide in environment form the burning of these fuels is a major cause of global warming. Many climate changes are a result of this global warming. Continued use of these fossil fuels will only aggravate the situation. The conversion of fossil fuels is another environmental problem as it results in solid waste accumulation. Another threat posed by fossil fuels is that of spill offs in seas and oceans during their delivery. This proves to be a menace to the marine life and very difficult to clean up. Biofuels in contrast do not have any such hazards attached to them.Burning biofuels rele ases carbon monoxide and sulphur dioxide in lesser quantities. A model by Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) shows that neat biodiesel form soya beans cut down the global warming pollution by more than 50% in comparison to conventional petroleum based diesel. Some other sources for biofuels such as algae have the potential of providing up to 90% reductions in global warming pollution. Biodiesel is also made form recycled food oil and waste products. Use of advanced technologies in future will see that the waste streams are being converted to diesel fuels.This will result in production of low carbon diesel. Biodiesel has got an edge over petroleum diesel fuel when it comes to low pollution emission. Biodiesel emit less of hydrocarbons as compared to conventional diesels and thus are environmentally safer. In environmental context then, biofuels seem to be a more viable option, by being less harmful and detrimental to environment and health. The issue of energy sources is such that now it has even got mixed with politics. In evaluating the viability of alternate energy sources, we also have to consider the political context relevant to the situation.Governments are now more than ever concerned about the dwindling supplies of fuels and hence are pushing for alternate energy sources. Before using an alternate energy source then, the political issues that need to be considered are many. One of the many aspects considered by a government before venturing into the development of any alternate energy source is the jobs and the growth provided by the fuels industry. The renewable industry is a newly developing one and has potential for growth in future. This is what the Canadian government has in mind and is one of the reasons why it is pursuing a greater use of renewable energy sources.Governments like Canada seek alternate energy source such as biofuels because they offer immense reductions in greenhouse gases (Susanne, 2007). They also provide an economical energy so urce for governments in the face of increasing petroleum prices. The basic reason however governments may consider alternate energy fuels such as these is the wish to support farming and rural communities. Hence, political issues such as consideration of population and growth and job opportunities in the alternate energy industry are some of the political aspects a government considers before opting for such a resource.The Canadian government has opted to go for biodiesels which shows that this form of energy is being sought after readily by governments and they think it as a feasible option to not only counteract the effects of global warming but also be beneficial in terms of providing job opportunities to the farmer population. If we consider the socio-economic aspect of this issue, we would see that alternate energy sources are being seen by governments as a lucrative option since governments have seen an increase in farm-products and thus that this could boost rural incomes (FA O, 2008).Hence, all the more reason to support the alternate energy source. Economically, the biofuels could prove to be fruitful for farmers in developed countries. The FAO report 2008 states that farmers of the developing countries could be supported and aided to reap the benefits of its production. If biofuels is produced in developing countries, not only will it be economically profitable for the local population but it will be a major cause for reduction in pollution. Todaro, in his book Economic development states that the most cumulative environmental degradation has been caused by the developed world.However, this trend is very much likely to reverse because of decreasing income patterns and high population growth rates in developing countries. Thus, providing the population of developing countries with a cheap substitute to fossil fuels will ensure lesser pollution created in the developing world. Keeping all these points in view, I opine that alternate energy sources are i ndeed the need of the day and promoting their use will reduce pollution and combat global warming. However, some contrasting views have also been found related to the use of biofuels.These present some problems in deciding whether to promote the use of biofuels or not. Producing biofuels requires more fossil fuel energy than is gained by the consumption of the fuel (Pimentel, 2001). Hence, it contributes to global warming and pollution too. On the political forefront, biofuels, particularly ethanol is being opposed against by the environmentalists on the grounds that promoting the use of biofuels might encourage farmers to abandon food crops and plant cash crops instead, which could then be used in producing fuel.Europe is one such region which has pursued in the past for policies favoring biofuels. However, the policy decision made in 2008, has met with strict criticism from lobbyists, citizens and environmentalists. Ethanol, one of the biofuels, then does not appear to have a stro ng foothold when it comes to political grounds. Policies to promote biofuels in regions such as Europe and U. S have met with censure and disapproval as it does not seem to be such a feasible source. Political and environmental arguments however are not the only ones to be considered.The social aspects have to be considered too. One may argue that producing biofuels will be good for society. More cash crops will be grown, with better return to society and less production of pollution. However, a study shows how the production of biofuels is actually a social tragedy for humans. To sum up, the report declares that producing biofuels is not a feasible option as it will only be disastrous for farmers, the environment, and citizens, particularly, the poor ones (Altieri & Bravo, 2007). The report gives example of U.S that how even the utilization of all soya bean and corn crops will not be enough to meet more than 12% of its gasoline’s needs and 6% of diesel needs. One-fifth of co rn harvest in U. S has already been dedicated to biofuels but this too could meet only 3% of its domestic energy demands. Is it then ethical to pursue this option when it seems to have a plethora of arguments opposing it? Apparently, there is a trade-off between the economic and environmental benefits to be reaped from the production of biofuels, against the social costs of getting the food crops being replaced by cash crops.Cheap fuel to source the industries of a country or food for feeding the population? These are the two precarious questions waiting to be answered. Through the course of the discussion of paper, we have seen how alternate energy source may prove one of the ways to combat pollution and be beneficial for the environment. However, to do so at the social cost of hungry population would be a crucial mistake. The key to this problem is maintaining a balance between the two. In the face of food crisis and rising food prices, priority should be set on solving the proble ms of food security.Developing countries, hence must not seek out so actively to promote the use of alternate energy source. Rather, their focus should be on getting the food crisis resolved. One of the FAO’s recommendations with regard to this aspect says that â€Å"policies should be developed with appropriate international coordination to ensure that the international system supports environmental sustainability goals as well as social goals for agricultural development and poverty and hunger reduction†.Hence, to achieve the goals environmental sustainability, alternate energy source i. e. biodiesels must be sought keenly but only if the social costs of doing so are not greater than the economic profitability. References: FAO report, (2008), The State of Food and Agriculture, Part I: Biofuels: Prospects, Risks and Opportunities, pp 88-90. Retrieved August 17, 2010 from http://www. foodfirst. org/node/1662 R. S. , Susanne (2010, February), Canadians backing biofuels. Retrieved August 17, 2010 from http://www. biodieselmagazine. com/article. jsp? article_id=3993 Pimentel. (2001), The limitations of biomass energy, Encyclopedia of Physical Sciences and Technology. San Diego: Academic Press,159–171 Altieri, M. A. , & Bravo, E. (March 2007), The ecological and social tragedy of crop-based biofuel production in the Americas. Retrieved August 17, 2010 from http://www. foodfirst. org/node/1662 Todaro, M. P & Smith, S. C, Economic Development, 2002, Prentice Hall

Develop between Sherlock Holmes Essays

Develop between Sherlock Holmes Essays Develop between Sherlock Holmes Essay Develop between Sherlock Holmes Essay Write an extended introduction to Sir Arthur Conan Doyles short stories. Set them in their cultural and literacy context. Prepare a new reader for the differences in use of language. Show, with close reference to the central characters in the three stories you have studied, how Sir Arthur Conan Doyle reveals his own keen intellect as a medial practitioner piecing together diagnostic evidence from a series of small details. Explore the psychology of the relationships which develop between Sherlock Holmes and the people he has dealings with. Explain why the character of Sherlock Holmes as a fictional detective has endured in the public imagination. Sir Arthur Conan Doyles creation of Sherlock Holmes is one of the most exciting figures in all of English fiction.  Doyles stories about the eccentric, but brilliant detective and his trustworthy observations were apparently based on one of his teachers at the University of Edinburgh, where he studied medicine. There is evidence of his own medical training at Edinburgh arises from time to time in Sir Arthur Conan Doyles detective stories.  Sherlock Holmes appeared in a total of 60 stories, written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and was published between 1887 and 1927. The Sherlock Holmes stories were written in the late 1890s where Queen Victoria was on the throne. The story is set in the Victorian times, where the only types of transport around which people used were the trains drawn horse and carriages. The stories were set as a serial, published in the Strand magazine. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle aimed his stories at a working class audience. The magazines containing the stories were sold in London near train stations, and newsagents where people would stop to buy it. People read these magazines for sheer entertainment, whilst they were travelling to work. The mysterious mysteries, would hook the audience to buy the next magazine to find out what happens next. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle uses many fictional devices to convey an impression of suspense and mystery. They are placed throughout the story to ensure that the reader is always guessing as to what happens next. The style of writing and language used to tell the story and present clues to the audience is set in such a style it is invigorating and reels the audience in. For this piece of coursework I have read three pieces of similar literature; The Speckled Band, The Red Headed League, and The Engineers Thumb.  The two main characters of these stories are the infamous Sherlock Holmes and his companion, Dr Watson. Sherlock Holmes is the expert in solving mysteries. On the front page of these stories it says, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. It doesnt mention Dr Watson. This suggests that Holmes is the main character, and he is the dominate one. Holmes is the one who readers look to, to solve the mystery. Having read the stories myself, I found that Sherlock Holmes is the one with the answers to everything, unlike his acquaintance, Watson, who is a novice at solving crimes. All the Sherlock Holmes stories are written in first person. The stories are told by Dr Watson. The author, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is also a doctor. When Watson describes his clients he describes them with the finest detail. Sir Arthur Conan Doyles medical language comes into the story, by using his character Watson. For example, when Watson introduces Jabez Wilson in The Red Headed League, he describes Wilson as a very stout, florid-faced, elderly gentleman with fiery red hair. Watson also states that Wilson has small fat encircled eyes. Doctors are trained to pick up on physical appearance, which has come through in the text. The image is very descriptive, which gives the audience more of a life like vision to what the character looks like. The language is exceedingly formal and polite between Holmes and Watson. From the dialogue in the text, Watson tends to be exaggerative with his formalness towards Holmes. For example, when Watson interrupts Holmes in a conversation, he says I apologise for the intrusion, forgive me. When Holmes disturbs Watson by waking him up early in the morning he says, Very sorry to knock you up Watson. The reason for the difference in the formal language spoken between both Holmes and Watson could be to show the audience that Holmes is more superior to Watson, so therefore he needs to show more respect towards him. This could also be because of the hierarchy, if you had a respectable profession, you would be looked upon with respect from the people below you. The formal language spoken in the narrative is spoken differently from the Victorian times to nowadays, back then they were more polite.

Oedipus Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Oedipus - Essay Example The story takes a slight twist when the prophet Tiresias predicts a curse if Polynices is not buried and Antigon is not released. The king finally gives in, but this comes a bit late as when Polynices is being buried Haemon’s cry is being heard from the tomb, Antigon dies hanging on a noose (Petterson 18). The fate of Antigon could have been controlled by her in different ways. First, being aware of the king’s pride as evidenced by his willingness to defy even the gods, she should have not attempted to rebury Polynices. After knowing of the king’s plan to kill her, she should have fled till the king was dead. Thirdly when she was condemned to death, she should not have taken her life. Her death cannot be blamed on the curse because the curse had not yet been spelt. The major role she had that led to her fateful death was committing suicide. Petterson M. Oxford Guide to Plays: A-Z to 1000 best plays of world theatres. 2009. Web. July, 15 201

Trip to California Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Trip to California - Essay Example nia, he will find that it is very diverse, and this diversity ranges from its forested coastal regions to its north, the rugged mountains in the interior, to the harshness of the desert to its south. But sandwiched between all these is the Central Valley which is the most fertile and agriculturally productive part of the state. In order to get a better view of California in our travel, we chose to hire a car as soon as we landed at the airport in Los Angeles. It was while we were driving from one place to another that we came to discover just how expansive the highway system of this state really is. Because of these highways, our travels within the state were made much easier and in fact, we covered more distance and travelled to more destinations of interest in just a few hours than we would have done in our own state. During this trip, we were pleasantly surprised to find how useful our knowledge of Spanish really was, because despite the fact that English is the official language of the state, Spanish is also spoken by a large number of people making knowledge of the latter very useful (Anderson, 2006). We found that once people realized that we could speak Spanish, they would quickly give us directions to where we wanted to go. I believe that it may have been because of the goodwill which was as a resu lt of speaking to those people in their own language. Some very memorable places that we visited were the Hollywood symbol and the Walk of Fame in Los Angeles; the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz in San Francisco; and finally, the cities of San Diego and Santa Barbara. Furthermore, we found the desert in southern California to be a very exciting place and we spent several days exploring it. We often spent the nights out of doors in the cold desert discussing the day’s events and making plans for the coming days. We had so much fun in California that it was with the deepest regret when the time came for us to leave. We all later came to admit that we had fallen