Saturday, August 31, 2019

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Motor Car

In today's world of hurrying the car becomes to be the most popular way of moving from one place to another. However, some people consider that using cars is harmful for the humanity. On the one hand, using such mean of transport is very comfortable and contribute to save people's time and energy. Moreover, workers are able to transfer some important things with the help of the car. Personally I think that it is unable to survive without transport system. Anyway, loads of people cannot imagine how to get home after a tiring working day without a car.On the other hand, using the car as the most popular mean of transport has a lot of disadvantages. Firstly, cars pollute surrounding atmosphere which is very harmful for human's health. Secondly, there is an enormous quantity of car crashes which causes death of the majority of participants. In the conclusion i should say that people are faced with a difficult choise between using cars or being in the big colony of those people, who are o ne hundred per cent convinced that the world would be much better off without cars.To sum up, everyone should make his own decision. So many men, so many mind. The car has been the most popular method of transport for many years. Driving a car one can avoid crowds,one can feel free in his car,one can listen to music. In winter we don't get cold thanks to heating and in summer thanks to air conditioning we don't feel hot. Contrary to public transport we don't have to worry about a bus being late. we can get into our car at the time we choose ourself and go anywhere we want. Using a car is comfortable,convenient and easier than using public transport.If we have a car we can travel whenever we want to,we are â€Å"free†,not confined by departure or arrival time of a train or a bus. Obviously,driving a car has also some disadvantages,such as buying and running a car needs a lot of money, even more for a good quality one that is not too old. There are a lot of things to pay for â €“ the car itself, fuel, parts , maintenance, repairs, insurance to cover the cost of crashes or theft, parking charges and toll roads and any tax or licensing fees charged by government.If two cars crash they can hurt the people inside or around them. When too many cars try to go the same way, traffic congestion slows them all. They can cause air pollution if too many are used in a small area like a city, and the combined pollution of the world's cars is thought to be partly to blame for climate change. To sum up, cars have many advantages and disadvantges. However, we should use a car in the goodway. Also we should not use a car always try to use another kinds of transport to make decrease for the air pollution.

“They Don’t Care Where You Were Born, Just How.”

â€Å"They don’t care where you were born, just how. † Discuss the importance of genetic makeup in the world of Gattaca. In the world of Gattaca everyday life is based upon ‘perfection. ’ Your career, social status and living conditions are all affected by genetic makeup and whether or not you were genetically altered before you were born. People’s position in society is not determined by their race or gender or social status, but the purity and â€Å"perfection† of their genetic code. When going for a job in the workplace at Gattaca it’s common for the interview itself to simply be a DNA sample rather than having an actual face to face interview with a boss. Gone are the days when workers were picked on their written resumes and personality traits, your resume is now IN your DNA. The contrast between the Gattaca workers and the Gattaca cleaners shows the huge difference in what your genetic code can do to your career. Gattaca is a world where police and security checks are carried out by immediate DNA analysis from blood samples. The constant testing at Gattaca to make sure everyone is ‘genetically fit’ is shown constantly throughout the movie, and the ‘valid’ and ‘in-valid’ labels given to the genetically alerted and the non-genetically altered emphasize just how important the genetic makeup of a person is in Gattaca. The main character, Vincent, sums up well the unfairness of the new genetically classed social system: â€Å"I belonged to a new underclass, no longer determines by social status or the colour of your skin. Now we have discrimination down to a science. †

Friday, August 30, 2019

Communication and professional relationships with children, young people and adults Essay

Explain how you use effective communication in developing positive relationships with children, young people and adults. Why is this important? 1. 1 In developing positive relationships we use effective communication in several ways. We use it to: †¢help us better understand a situation or person which can help to determine our approach when engaging with them. †¢build trust and respect. If individuals feel comfortable speaking with us and feel they can approach us at any time on any subject, they are more likely to co-operate and look favourably on any suggestions made. †¢show that we care about the welfare and future of an individual and will do our best to aid in their success †¢ensure that all parties are agreed upon the same goal, making sure that everyone is clear about the final aim and how it will be achieved. †¢build and maintain a positive working environment where creativity and learning can flourish. It is important to do this because poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, lack of trust and conflict. Without a positive relationship you are unlikely to gain support and co-operation and find it challenging to achieve a good outcome from any situation. Explain the principles of relationship building with children, young people and adults 1. 2 When trying to develop positive relationships there are several principles to follow. Firstly effective communication is essential. You must be clear in what you say and ensure you have been understood correctly. At the end of a communication you can reiterate your key points and if necessary outline responsibilities and actions. Also be sure to use language appropriate to the person with whom you are communicating. When speaking with young children keep key points to a minimum and ask them to repeat what you have said. Secondly, take time to listen to others and try to understand their point of view. Use active listening techniques to show that you are interested in what they are saying and respond appropriately. Also make sure that, if you tell someone you will get back to them, you do get back to them. This will help engender a sense of trust and respect. It is also essential that you show respect for the person with whom you are communicating. Remember their name and details of how they like to be addressed and issues which are personal to them. Recalling details of their lives adds to the feeling that you are genuinely interested in them and their welfare. When communicating be sure to acknowledge the individual. Accommodate any religious and cultural beliefs and show that you value these differences. Be considerate of the person’s situation trying to understand and accommodate any issues which may influence their feelings, actions and responses. Finally, remain positive and retain a sense of humour. Laughter is a good way to break the ice and relieve tension in a stressful situation. Explain how different social, professional and cultural contexts may affect relationships and the way people communicate 1. 3 There are several ways in which social, professional and cultural contexts may affect our relationships and the way we communicate. We must remember that communication is not just verbal and context will influence the way we act, what we wear, how we communicate and what we say. In a social setting our actions, language and dress may be less formal. If we have colleagues and parents from school as friends outside of school, then we might perhaps greet them with a hug and a wave. Our language might incorporate slang and jokes and conversation might be more generic and less serious. We might be more casual in our attire and the situation would suggest whether this is acceptable. For example, you would not be expected to attend a party wearing your best suit. The manner in which we communicate socially is also likely to be different from a professional setting. As well as telephone and face to face conversations we might also engage via text message, email and social media sites and we would be unlikely to write a letter to someone we might see daily. Communications might, for example, utilise text speak and jargon and not necessarily demand an immediate response if any at all. In a professional context you would be expected to act, speak and dress more formally. Your actions language and clothing should match the severity of the issue which you will address and show appropriate respect for the location and people with whom you are meeting. If participating in a parent/ teacher meeting at school for example the same people you greeted with a hug the night before would be better greeted with perhaps a handshake to highlight the position you hold in this scenario. Our language would be more formal and depending who was present we might try to eliminate jargon to ensure clarity and minimise misunderstandings. Similarly again our clothing would be more formal to identify the position we hold and show respect for those involved in any meeting. When contacting people professionally the use of social media sites would not be appropriate to discuss any matters relating to school, pupils or staff. Text messages might be appropriate to inform parents/carers of a school social event for example but to arrange a meeting or discuss an important matter it would be more appropriate to speak with a parent/carer or write a letter if the contact needs to be documented. When working with outside agencies email, for ease of use and speed, has become the standard form of communication but again when broaching a sensitive or important issue, a phone call or face to face meeting might be preferred. Emails can easily be misread which can lead to misunderstanding and conflict. When speaking we can use tone of voice to help ensure a point is understood correctly and face to face we can use body language in the same way. The timeframe in which we contact someone or reply to a communication can also affect relationships. When someone has taken the time to contact you they will expect a response to show that you value their contact and it should be made in the same manner or more personally. Responding to a phone call with an email, for example, could be seen as rude and deter future contact. Similarly, delaying a response could suggest that you do not value the input of the individual or consider them or their issue to be important and bring about the same result. Finally, we need to consider the cultural differences of those with whom we interact. Different cultures may also have different standards in terms of behaviour, dress, communication and contact. Actions could be misinterpreted and cause offence leading to the breakdown of a relationship. If you are meeting with someone from a different culture it may be worth doing some research and asking their preferred form of contact etc. to show that you value their beliefs. However, whilst it may be detrimental not to account for cultural differences you could see the same consequences if you assume differences because of background or race when actually there are none. What skills do you need to communicate with children and young people 2. 1 Communication is still a relatively new thing for children and young people and they may not be used to asking questions and holding conversations. One skill required to communicate effectively is giving children and young people opportunities to speak. As adults we are inclined to think that we know what children are thinking and feeling and try to tell them this or fill the gaps in their speech. Whilst we should continue to try and communicate with children as often as possible we should ensure it is a two-way conversation and not a one-way stream of instructions. We should remain patient and allow children time to organise their thoughts and formulate their sentences. When a child is relaxed and at ease they will be more forthcoming. Children may be shy and reluctant to say more than a few words if they feel you are not interested in what they have to say. Using positive body language we can encourage children to speak out. We should come down to the child’s level, face them and maintain eye contact. Remaining focussed on the child rather than continuing with another task will confirm your interest and appropriate facial expressions will show that you are listening and have understood what they are saying. Active listening is another key skill. Be interested and make appropriate responses whilst the child is speaking to confirm that you are really listening. Add to this by repeating back what the child has said to ensure your understanding is correct and by giving positive comments when they have finished. Asking open questions will extend the conversation giving the child more practice, boost the child’s confidence so they are encouraged to communicate more and model a real conversation for them to learn from. Finally, we must also ensure that communication is appropriate for the child or young person and be able to adapt the style we use. Depending on the age and ability of the child we may be able to simply converse or might need to incorporate visual support or play into the communication. We should not assume children and young people will not understand but instead make our communication clear, use vocabulary which is appropriate to their age and encourage questioning. Give a detailed explanation of how you adapt communication with children and young people for: 2. 2 aThe age of the child or young person When communicating with younger children you should try choose a setting which is familiar to the child and where they are more confident – their favourite area of the classroom for example. Get down to the level of the child perhaps sitting on the carpet and use body language to make them feel more comfortable – ensure you are facing the child, smile, nod, turn toward them, keep your arms open and remove any barriers between you. Younger children will require more reassurance and perhaps more physical contact. They may feel more confident holding your hand or sitting close together. Vocabulary should be kept simple and sentences short, broken down into easy steps. The same point may need to be repeated several times in different ways and it is helpful to provide examples based around their own experiences. If a child is very reluctant to communicate you may want to use puppets to speak through, include pictures or props to help them engage or perhaps incorporate your communication into a favourite game. The attention span of younger children is very short and you must also account for this. Monitor the length of time you spend together and include attention switches to maintain their interest: change your method of communication, switch speakers, move location, ask questions etc. Older children and young people will still need to feel comfortable in your company but are more independent and will require less reassurance and physical contact. They are more familiar with the school environment so will find it easier communicate in different settings but will more comfortable in a setting they have used before. Older children often view themselves as grown up and will appreciate being treated accordingly. Positive body language will still be beneficial in encouraging a child to speak but it will no longer be necessary to sit on the floor. Language and vocabulary should be more mature and sentences can be more complex. It may also not be necessary to repeat a point so often unless it is something new and above that person’s ability level. Examples can be drawn from a variety of sources as their experiences are wider and additional materials should be more sophisticated such as written texts or †you tube† clips. Older children are more aware of themselves and can be easily embarrassed. They will benefit from confidence boosting reminders of how well they are progressing and positive re-enforcement. They will, however, withdraw and react negatively if patronised, preferring to be treated with respect and spoken to honestly. With age attention span also increases so it is still necessary to include attention switches to maintain focus but not as frequently. bthe context of the communication We will encounter children in a variety of situations at school and it will be necessary to adapt our communication accordingly. Primarily our contact will be made inside school during a learning activity. In this case we need to remain quite formal, be directive and model the behaviour we require through our own actions. Ground rules should be laid down in clear, concise Instructions and the learning objectives highlighted to ensure all children fully understand what we expect and are trying to achieve from the lesson. There will be other children in the same area working on separate activities so we need to make our lesson interesting to retain the attention of our group but not distract the others. We can do this through tone of voice, choice of vocabulary and supplementary resources but must be wary not to overexcite the group because of the other learners present. If your activity is away from other learners then it may be possible to incorporate physical activity and allow greater expression. Distractions will be plentiful and we will need to encourage and focus our learners through positive re-enforcement and challenges. If appropriate to the task we should encourage discussion through questioning but keep discussion restricted to the subject at hand. In a more social setting, for example the playground, we can be less formal and more relaxed in our approach. This would be reflected in our body language, tone of voice and vocabulary. These times can be used as opportunities to build relationships and get to know the children better. Children can be encouraged to discuss outside interests and we might share our own experiences to help form a bond. Whilst it may be necessary to give little reminders of school rules to avoid bad behaviour it should not be necessary to outline them in full and they can be made in a more playful and conspiratorial manner – a helpful friend rather than a figure of authority. Although conversation might be more light hearted we must still remember to maintain the relationship of teacher and pupil. A school trip, however, is a more social event, but still a learning activity and the degree of formality should remain on a similar level to the classroom. The formality of the pupil teacher relationship should remain so the children understand that you â€Å"are in charge†. Children will need to be reminded often of their objectives but communication might be more light hearted and children allowed to speak more freely, discussing outside interests highlighted by the current situation. Outside the school environment they will be excited and more forgetful of their code of conduct. It will not always be possible to speak with the whole group when on a trip so we should communicate through our own behaviour, modelling what we expect from the children: remaining focussed, respectful, and responsible.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Information Management Master Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Information Management Master - Essay Example To do the changes, Information Management Process should contain the steps of designing records systems, documenting records systems, training records practitioners and other personnel, converting records to new records systems, formats and controls, setting standards and measuring compliance and performance against them, and determining retention periods and making decisions about records which have continuing value, in keeping with the regulatory environment. If Justafye considers my proposal and give me the opportunity to implement them, then our industry will be able to recover the losses that have been occurred for the disaster more or less. And I also believe that it will ensure our industry's effective Information Management. Justafye Industries is a large service based organization in a prominent metropolitan area. Justafye Industries has been operating for over 20 years and currently has a staff of 375. Most of their systems are highly technologically equipped. In past, individual staffs were responsible for maintaining organizational records of their own activities. No centralized guidelines existed for managing information. All staffs were aware of keeping everything for three years - just in case of any emergency; then destroy and make sure that they have a hard copy with them. All space within the building of Justafye is currently occupied with the exception of a small area in the basement, which has flooded on a number of occasions in recent times. Understandably there is much work to do in bringing some order into the information stored by Justafye Industries and in convincing staff to progress systems for records/information management.4 1-2: Problem Statement: 1. As a Corporate Information Manager, I will have to mention what changes should be made to the records or information division and its employee. 2. Finally I will have to recommend specifically for bringing about such change as soon as possible. CHAPTER 2: RESEARCH DESIGN 2-1:

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

The Life of Carl Theodor Dreyer Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Life of Carl Theodor Dreyer - Essay Example Before coming into the care of Danish Lutheran typographer Carl Theodor Dreyer and his wife Inger Marie at the age of two, the infant Nielsen was already placed in two foster homes. It should be noted that even before the adoption was finally legalized, the mother of Dreyer died after consuming a large dose of phosphorous in order to induce miscarriage as she was then pregnant again with her second child out of wedlock (Acquarello 1). The young Dreyer never got the opportunity of developing a good relationship with his foster parents as they constantly reminded him that his mother had neglected her social responsibilities. They have also expected that Dreyer will recompense them on their charity (Alleva 3). It is uncertain whether Dreyer had learned the story behind his true identity, yet this circumstance in his life has left a profound impact on the famous film director as evidenced by his filmography. What has become apparent is that Dreyer has endured a deep wound even if he avoids talking about his childhood and parental estrangement in his numerous interviews and public appearances (Acquarello 1). Dreyer excelled academically. ... He became a celebrity profiler for Scandinavian theater artists. He worked as a reporter in several prominent newspapers which include Berlingske Tindendi, Politiken, and Riget. Being a very talented writer, Dreyer captured the promising aviation industry by his "technically comprehensive articles." The Nordisk Film Company then employed him as a hot air balloon technical adviser. Dreyer started in the film industry by doing the titling and writing film scripts for a number of studios before signing an exclusive contract with Nordisk. Within this company, Dreyer had shown his exceptional skill in film editing. The encouragement and tutelage of Wilhelm Staehr became the stepping stone of Dreyer to venture into film directing (Acquarello 3). The first film of Dreyer created in 1918 was a "banal melodrama" entitled The President. Even in this first movie, the director already revealed his objective of creating a personal stamp in the movie industry. It should be noted that instead of selecting studio actors employed by Nordisk, Dreyer opted to respond to his artistic intuition by personally electing his own cast of professional and non-professional actors. Dreyer selected his artists for "their appropriate face types to the situational and psychological profile of the character that they portray" (Acquarello 3). The director also chose to create an atmosphere of realism and naturalness in his film by doling out cosmetics and ornately decorated sets. It is irrefutable that The President depicts an important issue in Dreyer's life. The film tackles the issue of a biological parents' moral responsibility for a child conceived out of wedlock. The story line is about "a prominent and well respected judge [who] is forced to decide the

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

The Impact of Economic Crisis on Sweden and Norway Research Paper

The Impact of Economic Crisis on Sweden and Norway - Research Paper Example The main theme that runs across this entire piece of writing is the effects of economic crisis in Sweden and Norway, their negative impacts and ways in which the countries are trying to fight the same. The paper also compares the effect of these crises to the two mentioned countries. In Sweden, the monetary deregulation began a few years ago. The financial intermediaries hastily stretched loans as an outcome of the monetary deregulation. Mortgage institutions, banks, and finance firms freely competed to grant loans. The total lend increased by 136 % from 1986 to 1990. A tax increase was also experienced due to the rise in housing costs. According to Perrels, when people borrowed from financial institutions to purchase houses, interest expenses were wholly deductible from taxable salary. High-leverage monetary savings were used in the standard market. The standard market became lively and stock amounts persistent in rising. The redundancy rate continued to drop to the lowest levels in 1989. Mutually, high increase anticipation and a tax benefit decreased the after-tax actual interest rate to a lower level. Conversely, the bubble unexpectedly busted after 1990, when the financial strategy was tautened. A tax improvement also contributed to the severe drop in asset costs. A reduction of the interest expenses from taxable earnings was strictly forced by the change. The stock market on the other hand also adversely responded and began to drop. Specifically, the real estate stock cost index had dropped by 52%. The bust of the bubble was initiated by a taut monetary strategy. The fundamental change of financial strategy was triggered by international interest rate hiking, succeeding the German reintegration and Riksbank’s plan alteration to focus on inflation.

Monday, August 26, 2019

English law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

English law - Essay Example ?s populace from unexpected data losses, as a matter of fact the largest data loss ever recorded in history which occurred on the inauspicious 21st of November 2007 was within the United Kingdom itself, and that too by the inappropriate management by government’s recruits themselves; within this data breach hefty information which encompassed the bank and employment details of more than 25 million Britons was lost. The data also included personal information about many renowned and wealthy personalities. (Hines, ONeill, & Blakely, 2007) Very soon after the data theft incident the Times reported another scandal where the missiles triggered by the ICO had missed by a continent as the report reveals that about 100 hacker websites were candidly selling off Bank details and secret PIN numbers (Mostrous & Kennedy, 2007). This report triggered off yet another tittle-tattle and directly questioned the ostensible â€Å"complexity† of the Data Protection Act. This report specifically focuses on the data protection policies for Banks and their Customers; this also includes avowals in various litigations such as the case of Bavarian Lager Co Ltd. v Commission of the European Communities. At the outset, it is to be declared that the Data Protection Act specifically focuses on the prevention of all sorts of data for living beings, may that be Bank details; personal info such as marital status, age, etc.; profession info; or last but not least secure data. Thus it is clear that the prime focus of Data Protection Act primarily places preference for the customer. As a matter of fact the Data Protection Act in the U.K. is known to be the most austere amongst similar laws in any other part of the world. The author would like to address this case because this created results that were the basic foundations of the data protection and information transfer procedures: The Basis of this case was negligence in clarifying the bank’s policies, this led to the outburst of the so called

Sunday, August 25, 2019

My philosophy of education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

My philosophy of education - Essay Example During an observation at Battery Park City School, I found an example. In a class of first graders, when a girl was moving a bean bag chair by herself, a boy classmate walked up to her and helped her move it. As soon as Liz, who is their teacher, saw it, she said, â€Å"Oh! Look at him. How gentle he is! You are a gentleman.† In this case, the boy is recognized and feels a sense of pride with what he has done. This helps the boy learn that helping others is a good thing. The teacher’s words are helpful not only for the boy, but also for the rest of students in class. Hearing their teacher praise their classmate for lending a helping hand will help them realize that helping others is a good thing. Through a few words of praise, students could learn what is right and it helps form their personality. In this context, praise is an effective learning method and teaching method. Alice S. Honig discussed the positive solutions to address typical difficulties. One of the positive solutions mentioned was praise. According to Honig, â€Å"Children who are tense may show signs of pressure and frustration, like biting their nails or stuttering. Harsh response will only make children more tense. Instead, find situations in which these children shine, and bolster their self-confidence with Praise. For example, ‘Marques, you did a beautiful job of hanging up your coat!’ †. For Gartrell as cited in Meece and Soderman, appropriate praise is one that is â€Å"sincere, constructive, and encouraging†. Children tend to flourish when adults take notice and recognize a child’s effort and accomplishments. Recognizing positive changes in a child’s behavior and abilities also helps. Pro-social behavior is developed when the positive results of a child’s behavior on another is pointed out. In promoting a positive verbal environment, praise is used as a means to encourage a child’s intrinsic motivation. As the articles

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Social Psychology Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Social Psychology - Assignment Example The writer in this piece acted the way she did due to many reasons. The reason she got married probably was she was pregnant. However if society had not made her feel bad about being single and pregnant, she might have acted differently. The consensus between her and Simon was an agreement to get married. The writer tried to consistently get along with Bernice, but distinctively left her husband after he refused to take up for her. Simon acted the way he did because he did not want either his wife or mother mad at him. It is true he cannot control his mother’s actions, but he can control his. If he wants his mother to stop abusing the writer verbally, Simon could speak up. It is his mother. All the situation would have taken was a â€Å"Mom this is not the time† at the wedding or birth of his son. A â€Å"I was there when she got pregnant too† would have also worked. Simon is apparently too scared to say these things. Bernice probably acted this way due to feelings of abandonment, or control issues. When a man gets married a mother can feel like she is losing her son. Most mothers deal with it, but some do not. Bernice was out of line. She was being self centered and not thinking of the happiness of her son or grandson. The solution to this problem is Simon stands up to his mother, or the writer gets a divorce. The sad part is divorce is more likely. It is hard for a child, even grown, to stand up for themselves.

Friday, August 23, 2019

Applying for a master degree Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Applying for a master degree - Personal Statement Example My ambition developed rapidly leading me to streamline my studies towards Business and Management, particularly human resource studies. Thus, I believe further studies for a masters degree in the University will enhance my competitiveness and set me apart in my professionalism. I have experienced challenges and had opportunities during studies. However, I put extra determination to maintain and improve my scores with the aim of obtaining a chance to further my education. The efforts yield fruits with an average rating of 2.1 in core subjects. Apart from academics, I exhibit potential skills in leadership and excellent interpersonal attributes. In addition, I understand the program and curriculum details and sure that it matches with my research areas. I also acknowledge the competitiveness of the program. Nonetheless, I express pleasure that my professional aptitude and decent University record offer me a reliable certification for admission. Hence, I will appreciate your approval for admission. Finally, I give my assurance that I will optimize my chance to advance my talents. Likewise, I will be a noble ambassador and endeavor to transform people’s lives through appropriate management approaches. Kindly consider my

Talent Management Strategic Plan Talent for Candlelight. Inc Essay

Talent Management Strategic Plan Talent for Candlelight. Inc - Essay Example The gaps that need to be filled in the company’s HRM include motivation of employees, retention, training, and development, and commitment.This involves an analysis of where the organization is now, and where it should be in future in terms of talent management. The gaps that need to be filled in the company’s HRM include motivation of employees, retention, training, and development, and commitment.4. Develop Internal Talent PoolsDeveloping internal talent pools enhances employee retention and commitment and reduces employee turnover. It involves training and development, motivation through compensation and rewards, and creating work-life balance.5. Attracting and Building External talent to replace those employees who have left, the company should attract experienced, qualified and committed employees. One of the mechanisms to do that is to build the image of the company and an employer brand that can attract the best talent. Diversity should also be considered. To bui ld external talent, the company should also engage students who are still undergoing their studies through internship programs.  6. Building Organizational CultureThe company should also build on elements of organizational culture and work environment to enhance employee satisfaction and retention.  7. Assessing and Evaluating Performance  After all the above have been done, the company should measure the results of the talent management program and communicate the successes and failures encountered (Newfoundland and Labrador, 2008).

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Research Essay Example for Free

Research Essay El Fili as it is popularly called, is a darker and more evolved novel compared to Noli. Its a book about revenge, manipulation, deception and greed to name a few. Its a shorter book. The dreaminess and idealism of the Noli Me Tangere gives way to the darker, grimmer, more cynical tone of the El Filibusterismo. So the language style also changes instead of the longer, declamative dialogue of the Noli, you have the more direct, action-packed style of the Fill. The Noli, with its anti-friar commentary, still shows hopefulness in terms of a Just civil colonial governance. In comparison, the Fili describes a deep-seated corruption in oth civil government and church, creating a society seething with injustice, and setting the stage for possible revolution. I guess this definitely shows the changes in Rizals state of mind as he was writing the two novels. So, he wrote Fili and expressed his thoughts on the possible solution to the countrys situation. Yes, if you really analyze the messages in both novels, Nolis intention was to state the problem while Fills was to present the possible solutions. I thought Rizal did not write Fili Just to fan further the flame caused by Noli but to tell the Filipinos he different alternatives to their problems and what he thought was the best solution: non-violence. 1. Style. The opening scene in Noli, the grand welcome party in Capitan Tiagos house mirrors the condition of the country right away. On the other hand, the upper and lower decks in MN Tabo shows the marked difference between the social strata in the country particularly the Spaniards (peninsulares, insulares, mestizos) and the lowly indios. As per as the manner of writing, i. e. , long or short, simple or complex, sentences, rushed or leisurely pacing, they are the same. -rte SCORE: 0-0 2. Tone. Noli is social while Fili is political. Noli still has a heart because it has this passionate love story between Ibarra and Maria Clara. Fili is mostly about revenge and debates which mean it has more brain than heart. So, this depends in the readers preference. I thought that I enjoyedNoli more. Noli over Fili SCORE: 1-0 3. Mood. Noli is confused yet still hopeful. Angst is still underneath. Fillis altogether hatred from page 1 until the last chapter except in the last scene. There are more scenes in Noli where I was mesmerized by Rizals use of beautiful prose putting natural color on his settings. There are still some in Fili but they were overshadowed by the strong hatred emotions from the characters. SCORE: 2-0 4. Diction. Rizal used his characters to express his thoughts. There are these debates or long conversations that while reading, you will get the feeling that Rizal is discussing his views with you. In Noli, there are only 2: Ibarra and Pilisopo Tasyo is one and the debate about the town fiesta as the other. Fili on the other hand, has a lot more: Isagani vs Ginoong Pasta, Macaraig vs Don Cammaro, the friars and government officials in Los Banos, Placido Penitente vs his professor, Isagani vs Padre Fernandez and even the last scene with Simon and Padre Florentino. Wonderful debates. Fili over Noli SCORE: 2-1 5. Point of View. Both employ an omniscient narrator but there is a part in Fili when Rizal used stream-of-consciousness. This is the part when Simoun heard about the death of Maria Clara. What an effective way of expressing Rizals sadness and I could not help but wonder if this was how he felt when Leonor Rivera got married to a foreigner. SCORE: 2-2 6. Narrative Presence. The attitude of the omniscient narrator is more accommodating and patient in Fili rather than in Noli. For example, in the Noche Buena scene in Noli, the narrator used the readers sympathy over the limping Basilio chasing the crazy Sisa and he forgot to describe the setting. In Fili with Basilio after 13 years, I was in awe reading the beautiful description of the forest while Basilio was remembering the first Noche Buena. Narrative Attitude. Despite those beautiful descriptions of the settings in Fill, it is more direct and straightforward. Although the message is sometimes diluted by the many options presented, Rizal was able to tie the loose ends in the very last chapter during the whole-day conversation between Simoun and Padre Florentino. Also, the dialogues are more brutal like in the scene with the talking head or sphinx. SCORE: 2-4 8. Time Frame. Noli starts with Ibarras homecoming after staying in Europe for 7 years. Fili starts witn Simouns appearance atter disappearing as Ibarra atter 1 years. Ibarra is hopeful that he will be able to bring change by putting up a school with his love for his country as the reason. He was able to learn this from his trips abroad including his stay in Spain. However, the 13 years in Cuba was, for me, not enough for Simoun to gather all those treasures that he claimed to have even come rom Marie Antoinette and the pyramids in Egypt. It Just sounded not too plausible.. Time Management. Noli starts at the end of October to December 24 (Christmas Eve). Fili on Christmas Eve to after Holy Week or after the school year. Less than 2 months for Rizal to tell the tale of a small town of San Diego but he needed more than that to tell the events in the city. I thought he used his time frames quite well in both. SCORE: still at 3-4 10. Place. If Calamba were the basis for San Diego, the Binondo and San Diego locations in Noli seems to be more realistic. The Laguna de Bay-Manila-pasig River- Tiyani-Binondo then finally to a provincial place with a plateau and the plateau is right in front of a deep sea is Just a bit of a stretch. How could the weak and wounded Simoun travel to a far-flung provincial place of Padre Florentino? Some say that the basis of this place was Atimonan, Quezon and it is a 4-hour drive from Manila. But for a horse-drawn carriage during the Spanish times? And Simoun was still able to confess to the priest for 1 whole day! SCORE: 4-4 11. Motif. The letters are the recurring images in Noli and there was not a single letter in Fill. Rather, in Fili the recurring images are the treasures and the lights. The letters in Noli denotes secrecy or inner ghosts. They signify the hidden emotional turmoil of Rizal and the Filipinos. The treasures in Fili means evil not all the glitters are gold and the lights, e. g. the stars that were in the sky guiding Basilio, the lights reflected on the surface of Laguna de Bay and the lamplight that could have killed all the rich and famous in Manila, signify hope. Rizal was really wonderful in using his motifs. SCORE: still at 4-4 12. Theme. Overall, Noli is positive: hope, love, beautiful memories, parties, town iesta, picnic by the riverbank, groundbreaki ng for a school, many books, knowledge, etc. On the other hand, again overall, Fili is negative: hate, revenge, death, rape in the open, persecution, students leaving the university, scary stage shows, protests, son killing his own kin, etc SCORE: 5-4 13. Irony. Since there is no prevailing emotion in Noli, the use of irony in that novel is more effective. Who would forget the Christmas Eve when Basilio was chasing Sisa, his lunatic mother? There were also scenes in Filiwhen this was nicely used like when Simoun went to the house of Kabesang Tales and lured him to commit rebellion by howing him the treasures. However, we already knew Simouns intent even at the onset so it was not as effective as those last scene in Noli. The one of Carolino and Tandang Selo was anti-climatic in my opinion. SCORE: 6-4 14. Rythmn. Narrative rhythm is greatly influence by the theme in these two books. I enjoyed the deployment of words better in Noli for example the old-fashioned but kilig dialogues between Ibarra and Maria Clara when they were in the azotea. The many long debates in Fili were at times so convoluted that they tend to go around in circles (not to mention non-sense characters mouthing nonsense statements) that here are parts when they were boring and pointless. SCORE: 7-4 15. Pace. I thought that this was won by Fili by a mile.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Marketing Analysis of Avon

Marketing Analysis of Avon David H. McConnell founded the company in 1886 at the age of 28 years old. He sold books door-to-door and distributed perfume to lure women to buy his books. His perfume was more popular than his books, so he then founded the California Perfume Company (CPC) in New York, New York in a 500-square-foot (46 m2) manufacturing and shipping office at 126 Chambers Street. As the corporation grew, he employed his first representative, Mrs. P.F.E. Albee. In 1897, McConnell built a small (3000 square foot) laboratory in Suffern, New York. In 1906, the West Coast office in San Francisco was destroyed in the Great Earthquake. In 1914 the first non-US office was opened in the Canadian province of Quebec. January 28, 1916, David H. McConnell and Alexander D. Henderson (businessman) in Suffern, New York  [2]  incorporated the California Perfume company. Sales attained $2 million by 1928 following five million units sold in North America. The company name was changed to Avon Products Inc. Octobe r 1939 which was taken public by 1954, sales reached $55 million, and the Avon Calling advertising campaign introduced. Avon Suffern Research and Development facility came into existence in 1971. With one million sales representatives, sales reached $3 million, presently; sales exceed $10 billion worldwide. The 100 million dollar Research and Development facility which house 300 research scientists on the original site in Suffern, New York was opened in 2005. Avon also has offices in Luzerne, Pennsylvania and Davenport, Iowa. Andrea Jung is the companys Chairman and CEO, who was selected to the position in 1999. As at December 2009, the company had approximately 41,000 employees  [3]   2.2 Company Profile 2.2.1 Organizational Structure The Office of the Chairman is responsible for identifying growth initiatives, incorporating global strategies, and apportioning resources to Avon units around the world. In addition, as part of the reorganization, the firms three International Regional headquarters were to be phased out, alternated by nine streamlined business units covering sales, marketing and distribution around the world. Profit and loss accountability rested with them. Managers of these units would report directly to the Office of the Chairman. Also reporting to the chairman are five global staff departments: Finance/legal Affairs, Human Resources, Corporate Affairs and Communications, Planning and Business Development, and a new department Global Product Management. Each department assumes worldwide responsibility for its function 2.2.2 Major Lines of Business Avon Products line includes skin care items, makeup, men and women perfume fragrances, and bath toiletries, hair care, personal care, hand and body care and sun care. Recognizable brand names included Skin-So-Soft, a product in the bath products area, which benefited from wide publicity concerning alternative uses; Moisture Therapy; and Imari fragrance. Newer products include Avon Color, an entirely new line of more than 350 shades of lip, eye, face, and nail colors. The product line assures customers that Avon has just the right shade for them and that their total look could be coordinated. Avon newest product Anew Perfecting Complex for Face, won the most successful skin care product in Avon history. Internationally, the companys product line is marketed primarily at moderate price points. The marketing strategy emphasized department store quality at discount store prices. Avon is the worlds largest manufacturer and distributor of fashion jewelry, and markets an extensive line of gifts and collectibles. A separate division, Giorgio Beverly Hills, manufactures and sells prestige fragrances. These brand name products are sold through major retail department stores, in boutiques, by mail order catalog and by other means. 2.3 Operating Strategies Avon Products Inc. is uniquely among major corporations, a womans company. The company sells products to, for and through women. The company understands women needs and preferences better than most. This understanding guides the basic business and influences the choice of new business opportunities. Avon need to become and are becoming, more customer-oriented and more market- driven. Each one of the 18 words in the vision statement has considerable meaning. The three most important elements, however, are the focus on women, on being global, and on the additional opportunities for Avon in self-fulfillment. Avon Products Inc. Principles To provide individuals with additional earning means to support well-being and happiness. To ensure families satisfaction from quality products To render outstanding service to customers in its helpfulness and courtesy; To acknowledge and reward employees and Representatives contributions. To distribute the dividend of growth and success with others; To meet social corporate responsibility; and To keep and treasure the hospitable Avon spirit. Source: Avon Representative Success Book 2.3 Operating Strategies 2.3.1 Mission Statement and Management Objectives Avon Products Inc. intends being the company that best understands meets and satisfies women needs globally. The International Beauty leading company intends to surpass competitors in quality, innovation, value and raising image to become women favorites Beauty Company worldwide by creating a unique portfolio of Beauty and related brands. The Womens quest for Buying Avon products will become home store for women, offering the convenience of multiple brands and channels, and providing a personal high touch shopping experience that helps create lifelong customer relationships. The Premier Direct Seller will expand the companys presence in direct selling and lead the reinvention of the channel, offering an entrepreneurial opportunity that delivers superior earnings, recognition, service and support, making it easy and rewarding to be affiliated with Avon and elevating the image of the industry. Avon products leadership edge is through passion for high standards, respect for diversity and commitment to create exceptional opportunities for professional growth so that associates can fulfill their highest potential. The companys philanthropic efforts aim at eliminating breast cancer and empowering women to be economic independent. As a way of creating wealth for shareholders, Avon seeks new growth opportunities and improving profitability, a socially responsible, ethical company that is noticed and imitated as a model of success. 2.3.2 Business Models and Strategies Avon Products, Inc., is one of the worlds largest direct selling organization and merchandiser of beauty and beauty related products. From corporate office in New York City, Avon markets product lines to women in 112 countries through 1.6 million active independent contractors (sales representatives) that receive a percentage commission for their sales but do not enjoy employment benefits, they sell primarily on a door-to-door basis. The idea behind the direct selling model is to eliminate the middle man (department and cosmetic stores) and get its products directly to consumers which will be able to cut costs and increase profits. November 2005, Avon products inaugurated an exhaustive turnaround plan to restore sustainable growth. The four-point turnaround plan includes: Committing to brand competitiveness by focusing research and development resources on product innovation and by increasing our advertising; Winning with commercial edge by more effectively utilizing pricing and promotion, expanding our Sales Leadership program and improving the attractiveness of our Representative earnings opportunity as needed; Elevating organizational effectiveness by redesigning our structure to eliminate layers of management in order to take full advantage of our global scale and size; and Transforming the cost structure so that our costs are aligned to our revenue growth and remain so. Source: 10-K (Feb 25, 2010) One of the goals of the 2005 Turn-around Plan was to increase the number of Representatives paid in 2007 when the company had 13% increase in net sales as a result of the increase in the number of Representatives Primarily, Avons revenues come from three main categories: 2009 2008 2007 2006 Beauty Products 72% 72% 70% 69% Fashion Products 17% 18% 18% 18% Home Products 11% 10% 12% 13% Source: http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Avon_Products_(AVP) Beauty Products: Cosmetics, fragrances, and personal care. Fashion Products are Jewelry, watches, apparel and accessories. Home Products: Home products and decorative products. 2.4 SWOT Analysis 2.4.1 Strengths Presence in dynamic sector Strategic focus on emerging markets Diversification through acquisition Wide brand appeal Financial stability Strong brand image 2.4.2 Weaknesses Over reliance on Beauty Products (72%) Limited outlets for the customers Confusing promotions, out of date catalogs, unattractive packaging and customer complains of Avon image. Over reliance on Sales Representatives Products are not commonly found in store 2.4.3 Opportunities Geographic Growth: Enormous growth opportunities exist in countries with huge populations such as China, Indonesia and India. In Eastern Europe, management is excited about the potential in Poland, Czechoslovakia, and Hungary. In the Pacific Rim area, countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos are targeted as market opportunities. Emerging and Developing Markets: In those markets, the retail infrastructure was undeveloped, especially in the interiors of those countries. The Avon representatives provide consumers with opportunities to buy a wide range of quality products at acceptable prices 2.4.4 Threats Avons dependence on the productivity and profitability of the representative direct-selling model exposes it to cost and litigation risks. It is likely that AVP will incur future costs through litigation and resolution of the lawsuit, which may include terms that would increase costs and decrease profits for Avon. Currency Fluctuation Risks as a result of much presence in global markets: Only 20% of the companys sales Revenue come from the United States while other countries contribute 80%, making the company very sensitive to currency fluctuations and the strength of the dollar. A weakening of the dollar against foreign currencies would allow Avon products to become more competitively priced in global markets, thus positively affecting sales revenue from foreign markets; however, a weak dollar would also mean higher costs for products manufactured overseas. 2.5 Core Competencies Over the last three years, Avon Products have been implementing its turnaround plan through various strategic initiatives, including: restructuring plan, product line simplification program (PLS), strategic sourcing initiative (SSI) and investment in advertising and sales representatives. Among other things the company does well are: Diversification through acquisition Distribution strategy and brand image High technology and innovation Economic Empowerment Philanthropy 3. Industry Analysis 3.1 Industry Definition, structure and major competitors The US personal care products industry includes about 800 companies with combined annual revenue of $50 billion. Major companies include Estee Lauder, Johnson Johnson, and Procter Gamble. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest firms account for about 70 percent of industry revenue. There are 28,001 companies in this industry with the US personal income driving consumer demand for personal care products  [4]  . Company Sales Location The Protecter Gamble Company 78,938.00M Cincinnati, OH LOreal SA 25,041.73M Clichy, France Kimberly-Clark Corporation 19,115.00M Irving, TX Colgate-Palmolive Company 15,327.00M New York, NY Kao Corporation 12,777.13M Tokyo, Japan Source: http://www.hoovers.com/industry/personal-care-products/1192-1.html 3.2 Industry Growth and Profitability Market moves over the last two years have clearly been extraordinary. The forecast call for a continued, gradual recovery in demand from developed markets with emerging economies faring better. The personal and disposable personal incomes are the main drivers of this sector. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, July 2010, Personal income increased $30.0 billion, or 0.2 percent, and disposable personal income (DPI) increased $17.6 billion, or 0.2 percent, Personal consumption expenditures (PCE) increased $44.1 billion, or 0.4 percent. Table 3.2 Personal and Disposable Personal Income 2010 June July Aug. Sept. Oct. (Percent change from preceding month) Personal income, current dollars 0.1 0.2 0.5 0.0 0.5 Disposable personal income: Current dollars 0.1 0.0 0.5 -0.1 0.4 Chained (2005) dollars 0.2 -0.2 0.3 -0.2 0.3 Personal consumption expenditures: Current dollars 0.0 0.5 0.5 0.3 0.4 Chained (2005) dollars 0.1 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.3 Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, US Department of Commerce. July, 2010 3.3 Pest Analysis of External Factors Affecting the Industry 3.31 Political Factors These include the form of government, role of government whether as a participator or a facilitator or a regulator, political stability and risk, consumer protection, employment law, election, competitive regulations, industry-specific regulations, environmental regulations, understanding cultural differences, government structures, governmental leadership, political trends, taxes, terrorism and war. Avon Products is majorly affected by government tax and industry specifications. Different countries have different regulations with taxes. Political and legal systems of different countries have important implications for Avon Products. Sometimes, the political system changes quickly, throwing the company into crisis and at other hand, it evolve more slowly. Countries Over 30 Hongkong 25.25 China 17.37 United Kingdom 25.69 United States 26.26 Singapore 25.24 Thailand 16.42 Norway 28.19 Canada 27.80 Japan 24.65 Russia 14.66 Source: http://www.euromoney.com/Article/2675660/Country-risk-September-2010-Full-results.html 3.3.2 Economic Factors In various countries, economic growth trends differs, government spending levels, taxation, disposable income, exchange rates, tariffs, inflation, job growth/unemployment, consumer confidence index, import/export ratios, and production levels. Avon has experienced fluctuating growth; its said to largely depend on economic conditions and disposable household income levels. A higher disposable income will definitely increase spending pattern. 3.3.3 Social Factors These include race, family size, age, gender, lifestyle changes, population shifts, education, trends, fads, diversity, immigration/emigration, health, living standards, housing trends, fashion, attitudes to work, leisure activities, occupations, and earning capacity. Since Avon major source of Revenue is on Beauty products which is mainly used by women, the company stands the chance of increasing revenue all things being equal. A higher taste or lifestyle to substitute products like Mary Kay may affect the company revenue. 3.3.4 Technological Factors These are factors that enable innovative and creative ideas that make Avon to compete and meet customers needs. These include Inventions, new discoveries, research, energy uses/sources/fuels, communications, rates of obsolescence, health (pharmaceutical, equipment, etc.), manufacturing advances, information technology, internet, transportation, bio-tech, genetics, agric-tech, waste removal/recycling, and so on, all these and many more need to be improved upon continually. As technology advances, there is need to ensure compliance and engage in more research in an attempt to increase the quality of the products. The company should keep the analysis of past developments separate from that of the present situation and future trends 3.4 Porters five forces of Analysis Competition 3.4.1 Threat of new Entrants: Low Being a household name for some years, the threat of new entrants can be said to be low. Consumers who are serviced in this industry tend to stick with long and experienced 3.4.2 Threat of Substitutes: High There are several substitutes to Avon products by its competitors in the market. A slight change or below standard can push customers to buy other products. 3.4.3 Bargaining Powers of supplier: Low 3.4.4 Bargaining Power of Customer: Low Customers who are mainly women often dont mind price(s) as long as they have value for money spent. Rather than customers fixing price, Avon does. 3.4.5 Rivalry among Competing Firms: High This is really high. Mary Kay among several others is in high competition with Avon. 3.5 Summary Bargaining power of buyers Low Competitive Rivalry within an Industry High Threat of Substitute Products High Threat of new Entry- Low Low Bargaining power of suppliers Low 4. Economic Outlook 4.1 Global Outlook The last three quarters have been impressive with the companys operating performance and its key credit measurements are improving. Avon is envisaged to continue to have conservative stances with its liquidity and share repurchases. Avon innovative ideas has earned its performance very well relative to its consumer products peer group and remains one of the best geographically positioned companies to gain from emerging market growth over the next several years. Avon is in the midst of a restructuring that includes cutting jobs and trimming overhead. It has concentrated on recruiting independent sellers, as well as broadening its assortment of less-expensive items, including products under $5, to drive sales. It is also growing sales in emerging markets. The recession affected the manufacturers of beauty products fairly well, due to large part to their vast product range. While demand for cosmetics stumbled some are considered essentials and were mostly resistant to the downturn. The economic recovery will push the industry back to steady growth, as improving disposable incomes allow consumers to spend more on nonessentials like makeup. Meanwhile, manufacturers will expand both their product lines and geographic reach to take advantage of new market opportunities  [5]  . 4.2 Regional Outlook Avon is on a course of action to deliver strong quarterly growth, although the US market is likely to prove the exclusion to regional growth in view of the tough conditions there. The worlds leading direct sales cosmetic company increased revenue by 8 per cent for the first quarter in dollar terms, while the continuing weakness of the dollar will mean that revenues will rise by 5 per cent in local currencies. Based on region, Avon revenue is projected to leap and operating profit forecast to be up. Internationally, Latin Americas revenue is projected to increase at a double-digit rate and operating profit forecast to grow in line with or slightly ahead of revenue, reflecting a strong performance in both the Brazil and Argentina markets. Europes revenue and operating profit are expected to increase in the ranges of 10 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively. Growth in this region is continuing to focus on the central and eastern European markets. Operating profit is expected to be more than 25% in the Asia Pacific region. 4.3 Local Outlook Avon overall growth is being driven by sales of beauty products, which are expected to increase more and more particularly the Anti-aging skincare Product. The company feels it is also a reflection of its successful new product launches and continuing commitment to invest significant resources to support its brand-building strategies. Also, the company expects increase number of active representative to positively impact on sales. 4.4 Summary There is strong growth and improving profitability as the global outlook becomes Stable from Negative. 5. Ten-year pro forma forecast 5.1 Underlying Assumptions Avon had $650 million Agreement with Silpada. The company designs is the worlds largest and fastest-growing sterling silver jewellery home party company which is expected to generate revenue from 2015  [6]  . Focus on emerging markets such as Brazil, China, Colombia, Russia, Turkey, and Venezuela, aiming for high market share and brand recognition in these markets. The only positive regional revenue growth the company had been in the Latin America and China at 5.6% and 0.7%  [7]  . For example, China re-licensed Avon for direct-selling, which allowed Avons revenues from China to increase rapidly from 2006 to 2008. The total revenue from China rose from $212 million in 2006 to $353 million in 2009  [8]  . Similar situations may arise in Avons other emerging market segments. Increased cost of production and Companies are also focused on controlling their operating margins in order to maximize their profits. While advertising and commodity costs have been rising, efficient production has been useful in reducing margins. A takeover Rumour by LOreal expand in emerging markets, particularly in Latin America  [9]   First quarter for the year ended March 31st, 2010.  [10]  Avons net income was $43 million, a 64% decrease from Q1 FY 2009 net income of $117 million. The decrease was mainly caused by AVPs effective tax rate being a 66.1% due to the devaluation of Venezuelan currency. Excluding this negative impact, net income was actually $144 million. Total revenue increased 14% to $2.5 billion. The number of active representatives grew by 6% as the recessionary environment attracted many unemployed people to Avons independent selling business strategy. Additionally, the companys Beauty segment grew by 14%. Avon had mixed sales results internationally, as it had a 2% sales decline in North America, a 22% sales increase in Latin America, a 31% sales decrease in China, a 28% sales increase in Eastern Europe, and a 23% sales increase in Western Europe and Africa. The company spent $96 million on advertising a 23% increase from the same quarter last year. Second quarter for the year ended 30th June, 2010, Q2 FY 2010.  [11]  The companys Net Income was $167.6 million more than double the year-ago quarter value of $82.9 million. Net sales rose 8% to $2.68 billion. Sales in all of the companys product categories increased with 16% growth in perfume and 12% growth in color cosmetics. Avon increased advertising in the quarter to $97 million, up 19% from the prior year quarter. The company increased advertising mainly in Latin America. Geographically, Avons revenue increased 16% in Latin America from strength in Brazil and Mexico. Sales in North America remained flat. Important to note is Other Income for the quarter in review shows a deficit of usd 100m.  [12]   Third quarter for the year ended September 30th, 2010 Avons net income increased 7% to $167 million. The higher costs are due to advertising and weak sales from markets like china and Brazil. Net Revenue increased 4% to $2.66 billion, compared to $2.56 billion in the prior year quarter. The company benefited from higher sales in Latin America (8% growth) and Western Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (11% growth). However, sales in North America remained stagnant with a 2% decline in growth and sales in China fell by 30% as Avon tries to transition away from retail stores in the region in favor of a direct selling method that it uses in its other markets. Advertising costs increased 36% as the company promoted its fragrances as well as its two new product categories hair and acne  [13]  .

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

String Quintet

String Quintet I. A Proposed Analysis of the String Quintet in F If the only thing Bruckner had ever written for string instruments had been the slow movement to his string quintet, his reputation would have been secured for all time. The entire work is so admirable that it is hard to believe that its creator had little familiarity with string chamber music. Though true, it is hard to credit that Bruckner did not know Beethovens late string quartets at the time he wrote this work. Its harmonies are quite unique and characteristic of Bruckners love of harmonic seconds and half tones. As a result, the intonation is at times quite difficult to get right but even amateurs need to overcome these so as to make the acquaintance of this magnificent work. The first movement, Gemà ¤ÃƒÅ¸ig, entirely avoids the usual Allegro mood one expects to find in a first movement. The plastic main theme is full of yearning and developed at great length until the entrance of the lyrical second theme, which conveys almost unimaginable bliss. The second movement, Scherzo, is highly syncopated though here, as opposed to its appearance in his symphonies, it is gentler and has a melancholy, contemplative mood to it. The trio section is closely related to the old-style minuet though it is full of feeling. The aforementioned slow movement, Adagio, takes one directly to heaven. This is music of affirmation and there is no sense of resignation to an inevitable and unwished for fate. The tonal color is quite unique, especially when the cello falls silent. The main theme of the finale, Lebhaft bewegt, has a staccato motif over an organ-like underpinning. The slower delightful second theme is a real piece of Austrian folk music and the variations on it are very pleasing.[1] Above is a useful aesthetic and dimensional introduction to the String Quintet in F, as expressed by the prominent German musicologist Wilhelm Altmann, who lived between 1862 and 1951. A facsimile of the 1926 Universal Edition miniature score of the quintet is included as an appendix, and it is suggested that one experiences both the score and its realisation before engaging with the content of this thesis. It is not the purpose here to provide a rigorous analytical discussion, however, what follows is a proposed structural overview of the four movements of the work, which will be followed by a detailed examination of the Adagio. Moderato (F minor) 1 98 Exposition 1 72 Primary Subject Group 73 98 Primary Subject Group 99 170 Development 171 273 Recapitulation and Coda Scherzo (D minor) 1 62 Vivace 63 82 Pià ¹ lento 83 119 Vivace Trio Pià ¹ lento 120-159 Da Capo 1 119 Vivace- Pià ¹ lento -Vivace Adagio (G flat minor) 1 18 Primary Subject Group 18 34 Transition I 35 56 Secondary Subject Group 57 66 Transition II 67 82 Simultaneous Recapitulation/Elaboration of Primary Subject Group 83 138 Simultaneous Recapitulation/Elaboration of Secondary Subject Group 139 167 Simultaneous Recapitulation/Elaboration of Primary Subject Group 167 173 Coda: Tonic (G flat minor) consolidation by restatements and dominant implications Finale (D flat minor à   F major) 1 16 Primary ‘Quartet Theme (Vivace) 17 32 Contrapuntal Quintet Theme (Im Tempo etwas nachgebend) 33 70 Cantabile Theme (Langsamer) 71 108 Agitato imitative theme 109 114 Simultaneous Recapitulation/Elaboration of Cantabile Theme 115 158 Synthesis and Elaboration of all themes 159 195 Recapitulation of Primary ‘Quartet Theme and concluding fff cadential flourish ~ According to Leopold Nowak, the third movement of the String Quintet in F, the Adagio, was composed between 10 and 31 March 1879.[2] Initially, I will establish how the Adagio functions by means of interaction between the five solo instruments, through a detailed examination of Bruckners treatment of structure, thematic material and harmony throughout the movement, in addition to his exploitation of the quintet idiom. In the following chapter, ‘III. Historical Reception and Criticism, I will engage with a spectrum of critical assessments of this particular movement, considering value judgements based on symphonic or chamber expectations, or indeed both. Timothy L. Jackson has documented how throughout his career ‘Bruckner considered sonata form to comprise of essentially two (rather than three) large spatial units, whereby the exposition is one element and the development and recapitulation together form the other.[3] Bruckner, according to Jackson, referred to the development and recapitulation of the opening movement of Symphony No. 9 in D minor (1894) as ‘the second part, or ‘2. Abtheilung.[4] Table 1, overleaf, displays how the Adagio convincingly functions as a two-part movement. In harmonic terms, Bruckner creates a divide between the respective sections by travelling further from the tonic and its mediant, which form the basis of the first section, to keys such as D minor and E flat in the second section. The thematic treatment in the respective sections further supports the notion of two-part division in the Adagio, with thematic material being presented in an original context between bars 1 and 66,[5] but with the juxtaposition of recapitulation with regeneration, or development, throughout bars 67 to 173. Table 1 Analysis Diagram Bar Reference Structural Position Structural Function Tonal Function Thematic Function 1 18 Section 1 Primary Subject Group Tonic (G flat minor) established (bar 13) Exposition of themes A (violin I, bb. 1-9) + B (violin I, bb. 10-12) 18 34 Transition 1 G flat minor à   B flat minor Link subject groups + consolidate B 35 56 Secondary Subject Group B flat minor consolidated (bars 56-57) Exposition of themes C (viola I, bb. 37-41), D (cello, bb. 51-4) + E (cello, bb. 55-7) 57 66 Transition 2 Tonic preparation (implied V7c at bar 66) Links Sections 1 + 2 and consolidates A 67 82 Section 2 Recapitulation/Elaboration of primary subject group Tonic (G flat minor) à   G flat major) Recapitulation and imitative treatment of A 83 114 Elaboration of Secondary Subject Group and Climax 1 at bar 107. Durchfà ¼hrung style modulatory passage. Concluding with D minor preparation (bar 114) Elaboration of Secondary Subject Group themes 115 138 Recapitulation/Elaboration of Secondary Subject Group and Climax 2 at bar 135 D minor initially, before Durchfà ¼hrung style modulatory passage at bar 138: E flat minor cadence Recapitulation combination, and contrapuntal treatment of themes 139 167 Recapitulation/Elaboration of Primary Subject Group and Climax 3 at bar 141 Tonic (G flat minor) Contrapuntal and sequential treatment of A and B 167 173 Coda Tonic (G flat minor) consolidated by tonic re-statements and repeated dominant implications (second violin) Derived from theme and accompaniment C. Diminished seventh leap and accompaniment reinstatements decrease William Caplin has argued that composers typically condense and adopt a lesser degree of formal and motivic complexity within slow movements, in order to limit duration. Thus they are ‘inherently simpler than other string quintet movements.[6] Although constructed in a binary fashion, Bruckners Adagio, in opposition to Caplins argument, includes the exposition (e.g. bars 1-18), elaboration (e.g. bars 83-114) and recapitulation (e.g. bars 139-167) of thematic material, revealing a full compliance with the fundamental procedures of sonata form as propounded by Arnold Schoenberg.[7] Thematic material from Bruckners exposition areas ( 1, bar 1, and 2,[8] bars 37-8) is presented in different tonal areas, in sequence ( 3,[9] bars 61-2), in inverted imitation ( 4, bars 99-101), and in progressive diminution ( 5, bars 169-73. Here the rising major sixth of 2 is progressively compressed in the second violin). Bruckners juxtaposition of thematic elaboration and recapitulation in the second section of the Adagio stands in parallel with the earlier quintets of Mozart, allegedly ‘the first to exploit fully the †¦ possibilities of the medium†¦ successfully and consistently.[10] For example, in the Adagio ma non troppo of the String Quintet in G minor, K. 516, Mozart excludes an independent developmental section, choosing instead to progress directly from the exposition (bars 1 37) to the recapitulation (bars 38 82). However, prefiguring the Brucknerian approach, Mozarts recapitulation features both the reinstatement and regeneration of material from both the primary and secondary subject groups, and thus manifests the integration of two elements of the sonata principle, elaboration and recapitulation. Hans Hubert Schà ¶nzeler has argued that Bruckner considered the traditional architecture and procedures of sonata form ‘a mere starting point, which he filled out, moulded and fashioned to suit his own particular requirements.[11] Schà ¶nzelers viewpoint can be confirmed by an examination of Bruckners formal construction in the Adagio. Table 1 refers to a sequence of three points of climax, at bars 107, 135 and 141 respectively. At bar 107 the inversion of a secondary theme (originally presented at bar 55) is presented strongly in the bass, whilst the remaining four voices have the same dynamic marking of fff. On the second quaver of the bar, when all five instruments are being played, the pitch range extends two octaves and a perfect fifth, which represents the greatest range thus far in the movement. At bar 135, whilst the pitch range (maximum of two octaves and a major third) and dynamic markings (ff) are less than before, the use of homophony to present the secondary theme maintains the climactic strength ( 6 bar 135, below). Finally, at bar 141 Bruckner recapitulates bars 14-34 climactically by means of an ff unison trill in the violins, whilst the lower strings play in dense homophony ( 7). The first beat of bar 141 contains the greatest pitch range in the entire movement, at two octaves and a major sixth. Bruckners use of a climactic sequence in the latter stages of the movement creates a sense of teleological progression. The thematic organicism central to sonata form is utilised to create a dramatic, linear gradient throughout the movement until the respective points of climax. In contrast to the resolution of tension associated with the traditional tonic recapitulation, Bruckners procedure creates an alternative region of arrival within the ‘Adagio. The reiteration (through a three-point succession) of climax, before the gradual dissipation of texture, dynamics and thematic significance throughout the final passage (bar 150 onwards), reflects Bruckners use of a climactic sequence in the latter stages of the movement to create a sense of apogee, as opposed to the traditional resolution. The adoption of teleological and motivically interactive compositional processes in the nineteenth century, with roots in works such as Beethovens fifth and ninth symphonies, was common. Ernest Newman has documented how the climactic region of the Prelude to Wagners Tristan und Isolde the two maximum points of dynamic, ff, which occur between bars 74 84 features motivic material directly derived from earlier in the movement.[12] In a similar fashion, Beethovens Allegretto ma non troppo from the Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major, Op. 101 reaches a teleological elaboration of the syncopated chord progression of the exposition codetta (see s 8 and 9).[13] By the time Bruckner was composing his string quintet, the positioning of musical climaxes became imperative to the progression of a movement. Notably, the climaxes of the Beethoven and Wagner examples above are positioned in close proximity at 83% and 76% through the Allegretto ma non troppo and the Prelude respectively.[14] Newman argues that ‘Wagner unconsciously obeys that natural law of structure that brings in the climax at a point about two-thirds of the time-distance between the beginning and the end.[15] In the Adagio of the String Quintet in F Bruckner positions the three points of climax at 62%, 78% and 82%, respectively. Interestingly, the first point of climax (bar 107) occurs at the ‘Golden Section, the Greek numerical constant of 0.6180 (4 d. p.).[16] This proportion, which has been widely cultivated by architects, artists and musicians, is manifest in works such as the De Divina Proportione (1509) of Luca Pacioli and Leonardo da Vinci, or reflected in the structural proportions of Debussys La Mer (1905),[17] and is believed to produce ‘harmonious proportions and maximise aesthetic experience.[18] The composition of three individual points of climax results in the creation of an extended climactic region, lasting almost a quarter of the Adagio, revealing the presence of a Schubertian ‘heavenly length, a musical device which allegedly interested and influenced Bruckner.[19] Simultaneously, Bruckner cleverly initiates his climactic passage at the point governed by Newmans ‘natural law of structure, but incorporates teleological prolongation by the sustaining positioning of the remaining two climaxes. Harmonic Analysis Similarly to Bruckners manipulation of the traditional thematic functions of classical form, harmonic relationships are exploited in order to enhance the linear progression. A detailed harmonic analysis of the first section reveals how Bruckner exploits the availability of a wide range of keys, such as E flat minor and B flat major (transition 1). Harmonic freedom is also signified by the use of a fluctuating B flat centre during the secondary subject group, through the Schubertian procedures of modal switches and tertiary relationships, and the more adventurous use of harmonic colouring found in the work of Wagner. Theme C, introduced by the first viola at bar 37, is emphatically diatonic and outlines an essentially triadic progression, accentuating the tension between the flattened and raised third degree. A simple presentation of the key areas explored in the secondary subject group and the second transition displays the remote key relationships employed by Bruckner. The implicati on of chromatic or Neapolitan relationships (e.g. the chord of Db major originating as the Neapolitan chord of C major) results in an expanded palette of key relations: bar 34 Bmajor/minor bar 51 C major bar 53 D major bar 57 B major/minor bar 61 Transition, preparing G major By employing distant and frequently fluctuating key relationships during the Adagio, Bruckner produces tonal instability, a tension-building device used by predecessors such as Schubert, and also Beethoven, in the Bagatelle, WoO 60 (1818) and Symphony No. 5 in C minor (1808), with the ambiguous (C minor/E flat major) tonal identity of its opening motivic gesture. Freed from the conventional assembly of harmony and thematic material, Bruckners formal approach to the Adagio can be comprehended through Dahlhauss definition of a schematic form one ‘sustained exclusively by the quality of the initial idea, the individual character of which compensated for the conventionality of the overall outline.[20] In the case of the Adagio, the ‘initial idea is the gradual, yet continuous, gradient of tension leading to the climactic sequence. [1] Handbuch fà ¼r Streichquartettspieler (Berlin, 1931) [2] L. Nowak, op. cit. [3] P. Hawkshaw and T. L. Jackson, op. cit. [4] Ibid. [5] With the exception of the two transitional passages (bb. 18-34 and bb. 57-66), in which thematic material is recycled to link subject groups and reinforce the primary subject group. James Webster (‘Sonata form, in L. Macy [ed.] Grove Music Online [accessed 01-12-08]) documents the traditional reuse of central thematic material in both codas and transitions. [6] W. Caplin, Classical Form (1998), 209. [7] A. Schoenberg, Fundamentals of Musical Composition (1967). [8] The conventional clef distribution, as in 1, will be assumed unless otherwise stated. [9] The clef distribution for this example is violin 1 and violin 2 (treble) and viola 1 (alto). [10] Cliff Eisen, ‘String quintet, in L. Macy (ed.), Grove Music Online (Accessed 01-12-09) [11] H. H. Schà ¶nzeler, Bruckner (1970), 75. [12] E. Newman, ‘The Prelude, in R. Bailey (ed.), Prelude and Transfiguration from ‘Tristan und Isolde (1985), 153 161. [13] Both s 8 and 9 are presented as piano reductions, with the conventional treble (upper line) and bass (lower line) distribution. [14] Percentages have been calculated in relation to the total number of bars per movement. For example, the Allegretto ma non troppo contains 102 bars. The region of climax is initiated with the crescendo mid-way through bar 84. Bar ‘84.5 as a percentage approximates to 83%. [15] E. Newman, op. cit., 153 161. [16] R. Tatlow, ‘Golden number [golden section], in L. Macy (ed.), Grove Music Online (accessed 01-12-09). [17] R. Howat, Debussy in Proportion: A Musical Analysis (1983). [18] R. Tatlow, op. cit. [19] G. E. Arnold and E. Agate, ‘The Different Versions of the Bruckner Symphonies, The Musical Times, 78/11 (1937), 17 20. [20] C. Dahlhaus, ‘Issues in Composition, in C. Dahlhaus (ed.), Between Romanticism and Modernism: Four Studies in the Music of the Later Nineteenth Century, trans. Mary Whittall (Berkley and Los Angeles, 1980), 44.

Monday, August 19, 2019

Use of Graphic Novels in Teaching Coming of Age :: coming of age theme

Teaching a unit based around the theme of coming of age is important in an adolescent classroom. It has been taught in high school language arts time and time again. Coming of age works makes up a large part of the literary canon including works like The Adventure of Huckleberry Finn, Catcher in the Rye, A Separate Peace, etc. Additionally, this theme is important because the teenage students in the classroom are essentially going through their own coming of age. They are currently making the difficult transition out of childhood into adulthood. Students will be able to relate to literature that focuses on a coming of age story more easily than to other works of literature. This will encourage students to be more active participants in classroom discussions and responding to the texts. It also allows students to apply the things that they learn from literature to their own lives and struggles growing up. I would argue that this is one of the most important things that teachers of literature can hope for. In this unit on coming of age, the two primary texts will be To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and the graphic novel Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee has become one of the most widely taught books in the high school classroom. In some classrooms, teachers make use of only a partial interpretation of the novel that focuses on racial injustice. While this is a significant theme in the novel and is absolutely one that should be taught, it is not the main theme of the novel. To Kill a Mockingbird tells the story of this racial injustice through the perspective of a child. It is the story of the coming of age of the narrator, Scout. According to Theodore Hipple in â€Å"Will the Real Mockingbird Please Stand Up?† (1969), the novel also tells the story of the growth of Jem as he loses his childhood innocence while he moves toward adulthood. By looking at the novel as a coming of age of two children, students will be better able to relate to the work than they would if they read it as a piece on racial injustice. However, students will still be able to learn about the historical social injustice that is portrayed in the novel. This is a good way for students to learn about how the society they live in was shaped. To Kill a Mockingbird is a coming of age story that holds a place in the literary canon and is a significant historical account of Use of Graphic Novels in Teaching Coming of Age :: coming of age theme Teaching a unit based around the theme of coming of age is important in an adolescent classroom. It has been taught in high school language arts time and time again. Coming of age works makes up a large part of the literary canon including works like The Adventure of Huckleberry Finn, Catcher in the Rye, A Separate Peace, etc. Additionally, this theme is important because the teenage students in the classroom are essentially going through their own coming of age. They are currently making the difficult transition out of childhood into adulthood. Students will be able to relate to literature that focuses on a coming of age story more easily than to other works of literature. This will encourage students to be more active participants in classroom discussions and responding to the texts. It also allows students to apply the things that they learn from literature to their own lives and struggles growing up. I would argue that this is one of the most important things that teachers of literature can hope for. In this unit on coming of age, the two primary texts will be To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and the graphic novel Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee has become one of the most widely taught books in the high school classroom. In some classrooms, teachers make use of only a partial interpretation of the novel that focuses on racial injustice. While this is a significant theme in the novel and is absolutely one that should be taught, it is not the main theme of the novel. To Kill a Mockingbird tells the story of this racial injustice through the perspective of a child. It is the story of the coming of age of the narrator, Scout. According to Theodore Hipple in â€Å"Will the Real Mockingbird Please Stand Up?† (1969), the novel also tells the story of the growth of Jem as he loses his childhood innocence while he moves toward adulthood. By looking at the novel as a coming of age of two children, students will be better able to relate to the work than they would if they read it as a piece on racial injustice. However, students will still be able to learn about the historical social injustice that is portrayed in the novel. This is a good way for students to learn about how the society they live in was shaped. To Kill a Mockingbird is a coming of age story that holds a place in the literary canon and is a significant historical account of

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Teaching Philosophy Statement :: Education Educational Educating Essays

Teaching Philosophy Statement When I came to State College, I debated on a major, trying to find a career that would be satisfying for the rest of my life, or at least until retirement. I often wondered if I would ever find a career in which I could direct all of my energy. After much pondering, I decided that education is the right path for me. I now find that not only do I want to apply all of my energy, but also my passion toward helping and teaching children. Education is a very important part of today's society. Teaching is a way of making society a better place for today's generation and our children. Teaching may not seem like a very important career to some people, but when I think back to some of my own teachers, I realize what an important role that they played in my life. Even today, in college, many of these Professors will never know the impact they have made on my life. Many people have the desire to be a teacher from the time that they are children. They play school with siblings and role playing leads them to a career. My career choice was quite different. I had never considered a career in education because of all the bad things that you hear that they have to go through, and how little they got paid for it. Now I believe that knowing that you have impacted one child's life; that makes you more wealthy that all of the money in the world. This was my viewpoint until my sophomore year of high school. I had English Honors with Coach McCall, a true inspiration. Suddenly, I found myself in great anticipation of class and craving more knowledge. It wasn't until I had Coach McCall again my senior year that I decided that I wanted to motivate people the way that he did. I wanted to see their eyes light up when they have reached a certain level of comprehension. More than anything, I wanted to inspire kids to learn. It was that year that I realized that the reward for teaching is much greater than money.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Home Depot †Executive Summary Essay

The Home Depot (Ticker: HD) is the world’s largest home-improvement retailer along with being an American Fortune 50 company. The company operates 2,259 retail building supply/home improvement â€Å"warehouse† type stores all across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The Home Depot has over 340,000 team members and is based in Atlanta, Georgia. The average store size is just over 100,000 square feet along with an additional 24,000 square feet set aside for seasonal gardening. Target Group The Home Depot’s two main customers are at home â€Å"do-it-yourselfers† and contractors. The main products and services offered help solve the wants and needs of customers involved with home construction and maintenance, renovation and remodeling. Competitive Environment The competitive environment for the home-improvement industry is broken into three major players: The Home Depot, Lowe’s and local retailers. They compete with local retailers that specialize in nearly every product and service offering. The Home Depot and Lowe’s are both â€Å"all offerings† locations spread throughout North America. Over the past decade Home Depot was stickily focused on expanding the store count and business lines whereas Lowe’s was focused on store count growth and perfecting their supply chain and internal technology. Past Growth Over the past 13 years The Home Depot has more than doubled its store footprint. It was aided by two major factors; First being that the home improvement and building industries were growing quickly providing a constant demand for product. Second, funding was easy to receive and it was relatively cheap because of low interest rates. Management began to â€Å"empire build† with their now sold professional supply business (now known as HD Supply) and cut costs in their big box stores to help reduce costs. With the reduction of cost came the reduction in customer satisfaction. Return to Retail Noticing that customer satisfaction rating had severely slipped because of stock outs and poor team member engagement with the customer a new initiative was proposed. Marvin Ellison, Executive Vice President, U.S. Stores, proposed the â€Å"FIRST Relaunch†. The program focuses on putting the customers first, by â€Å"Do(ing) the unexpected†. The operational plan focused on customer service, being in stock on all products and creating a better store appearance (inside the physical store and within the community). In efforts to focus on customer service, more employees were hired and trained. Upper management also equipped each team member with more technology (PDA’s, walkie talkies, etc). There was a companywide initiative to integrate Hispanic merchandise, marketing and staffing. Home Depot switched to a regional distribution system while upgrading their internal information technology infrastructure to better keep stores’ inventory stocked properly. This major overhaul materialized into The Home Depot’s stock outs dramatically decreasing. To create a stronger public image, Home Depot created The Home Depot Foundation which helps with community home building, disaster relief and veteran job placement assistance. These initiatives have greatly improved customer satisfaction and recognition in the community by increasing ratings from 55% to 75% (2008 to 2012). Current Economic cycle Home Depot has clearly set itself up to be successful in the recent upswing in the housing markets. Their technology upgrade has proven to be successful in keeping stores stocked and employees more engaged with helping the customers. Management has responded to the late spring, summer, and early fall build up in construction needs by resorting to hiring part time and seasonal workers while still giving them the proper training to satisfy the customer. Management The current Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Frank Blake, is often credited with the company’s turnaround ever since taking the helm. He sold the professional supply business (now known as HD Supply) to help the company focus on their core competencies. Blake also helped implement the customer first initiatives. All while cutting his own pay and switching his  future pay to stock and options, which are based on The Home Depot’s performance. Financial Position Since Home Depot has slowed their store expansions, cash reserves have grown to match total debt due in 5 years. Sales have increased steadily since the industry lows in 2008. Cash from operations have also steadily increased to match market high 2006-07 levels. A large portion of the cash flow each year has been focused toward share repurchases and steadily increasing their yearly shareholder dividends. Lending Risks The Home Depot is in the heart of an uncertain housing environment. The sales and financial results each year are closely tied to the consumer spending money on construction and housing maintenance. If the economic environment were to deteriorate it is likely many consumers would hold off on simple maintenance projects, which is currently the bulk of store sales. The housing market has seemingly bottomed but it still remains unclear to if the recent increase in housing sales is going to last.

Feminism Essay

INTRODUCTION From the early days until now, women are exploited in their daily life especially by the labor market. In this paper, we are going to see how women are exploited in the labor market. Exploitation of women is a social fact in the world, so I chose this topic because it started to be a social problem after the Second World War period and Industrial Revolution. In the Second World War, most of our women faced many problems by participating and aiding the men. Actually, if we go back in time, we can see the gender-based division of labor typical of hunting and gathering societies. For example, most forms of farming were characterized by a distinction between ‘‘men’s work’’ and ‘‘women’s work.’’ In horticulture, the chief task for men was to clear the land. After this was done, women performed the more time-consuming tasks of planting, weeding, and harvesting. As with economies based on hunting and gathering, economies depe nd on horticulture were much more affiliated to the labor of women than the productive activities of men. Men, however, took on a larger role when horticulture gave way to agriculture. Also, in prehistory, women have always worked as hard as men to support their families and build the cultures that dominated the ancient world. During the early Stone Age, when humans first appeared and lived in hunting and gathering, most of scientists support that women did most of the gathering while men did most of the hunting. Women always took part up to now. Thus, women in the ancient world worked hard. They were always overwhelmingly responsible for care of children and their ill, for providing food, and clothing for the household. In addition, most women took on the duties of bringing in some income for family or working in the family  businesses. These facts remained constant. What did change over time was the degree to which women’s contribution was valued: As life became more urban, women’s contribution within the home was valued less than it was when life was more rural. It was with city life that labor outside the home which brought in money as a profit was valued more than labor within the home. This shift caused women’s work to be devalued. This devaluation began in the ancient world and continues into the present to the detriment of women without whose labors families and societies would not have survived. With the development of agriculture, societies grew larger and more complex. The increased population also permitted more specialization of labor, and women’s labor remained essential and varied. After the Agricultural Revolution, the technological and organizational changes that were the basis of some transformation have been labeled the Industrial Revolution which is first in Britain and then in many other parts of world. One of the conspicuous social changes was movement of women into paid employment in Industrial Revolution. This was not the same thing as an increase in number of ‘working women.’ Women have always worked hard up to now. The Industrial Revolution gave women new wage-earning opportunities, especially in the textile industry and the majority of the workforce was made up of young, unmarried women. Most of employers and factories benefited from women’s work, as their employment drove down the cost of labor. The Industrialization creates new opportunities for women in job creation especially in textile, clothing, and food industries. Also, during the industrial revolution, the emergence of factories opened many doors for women in the working world. It gave them opportunities for work outside of the home, mostly in factories. During the early years of the Industrial Revolution when a multitude of factories were emerging, between the years of 1780 and 1840, women are dominated by the labor forces. Even though these women were unskilled laborers, they worked quickly and productively yet were paid half or less than half of what men received. However, in the long run it did not change the female workforce. Although the Industrial Revolution provided independent wages, mobility and a better standard of living, for the majority, factory work in the early years of the nineteenth century resulted in a life of hardship. With the Industrialization, women’s life conditions started with many difficulties. They are suffered by lots of  stress and pain as a result of the conditions in which these women were working lon g hours, little food, crowded factories, overall unsuitable conditions. Most of women claimed that they have to study and bring home the bacon even they have a low-paid job. At this time, the early Industrialization did not invent large numbers of jobs for women. Despite it resumed to employ large numbers of women for the production of textiles and clothing, household-based manufacture persisted important aspects of the national economy. Moreover, with the development of mechanized textile industry and other industrial enterprises, many women continued to work with long hours and low wages. Finally, the most part of women worked long hours for low wages from ancient times to date. They have faced many difficulties in their daily life in both inside and outside the home; however, I will emphasize women’s work outside the home in the labor market. In the project, we will see exploitation of women in the labor market from Marxist-Feminist perspective with the examples. WHAT IS FEMINISM? Although there are many definitions of feminism and some disagreement concerning specific definition, there is agreement on two core principles underlying any concept of feminism. First, feminism concerns equality and justice for all women, and it seeks to eliminate systems of inequality and injustice in all aspects of women’s lives. Second, feminism is inclusive and affirming of women; it celebrates women’s achievements and struggles and works to provide a positive and affirming position toward women and womanhood. Feminism is a personal perspective as well as political theory and social movements. Feminism denotes to social theories, economic ideologies, political movements, and moral philosophies aimed at bringing equality to women. Also, it refers to complex set of political ideologies used by the movement in order to advance the cause of women’s equality, to end the sexist theory, and to practice of social oppression. Feminism has been classified in differen t groups and issues over the history. The first wave feminism gave rise to liberal feminists who make a struggle for the vote, access to education, and marry law reforms in the 1800s and 1900s. In the second wave feminism, we can see it with the emergence of radical feminists who protested for work and reproductive rights in the 1960s and 1970s. The third wave feminism associates with all forms of oppression (such  as racism, globalization) from 1990s to date. Also, the second wave of feminism spread across the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. By 1970, women’s liberation was in the news and a part of many women’s lives. For example, feminists protested women’s magazines at the Ladies’ Home Journal sit-in and the nationwide Women’s Strike for Equality featured creative protests from women in cities across the United States. In Turkey, it has started in the Ottoman Empire in order to have right to education, right to labor, right to respectability in family, etc. in the 1870s. After these events, women’s studies improved and increased by women in the world and it has come to these days. I think, although most of societies take action about like violence, oppression, discrimination, and trafficking of women, exploitation of women cannot take care in the world. For example, most of women protest some actions like violence against women, but when it comes to the exploitation of women in labor market, there is no action in the society. In this sense, feminism is not just sexism, discrimination, oppression, etc. Feminism is having the equal rights like men and avoid from sexism, discrimination. ORIGINS OF FEMINISM The existence of the term feminism or the movement it has come to represent. The term feminism comes from the French word ‘fà ©minisme’ and was popularized by Hubertine Auclert in 1882 when she organized the first women’s suffragist society in France. However, prior to the advent of the word, there were publications that fell within the purview of feminism. Some feminists suggested that women should build their own cities, free of men, so as to avoid men’s violence and oppression. In this sense, the history of feminism is the chronological narrative of the movements and ideologies aimed at defining, establishing, and defending equal political, economic, and social rights for women. While feminists around the world have differed in causes, goals, and intentions depending on time, culture, and country; however women’s right should be considered feminist movements, even though they did not apply the term to themselves. Also, as I mentioned before, feminism is a movement which is a collection of loosely connected groups and individuals committed to organized action, including changes in behavior and members of movements. Feminist ideas and social movements emerged in Europe,  Great Britain, and the United Sates in an international context that promoted the migration of people and ideas across national boundaries. At this time, Mary Wollstonecraft has published ‘Rights of Women’ (1792) and John Stuart Mill has broadcasted ‘The Subjection of Women’ (1869). Between these times, ideas, social movements, and individual feminists migrated across land and sea for generating a powerful new context for women’s rights. Therefore, these publications illuminate the process of this movement. Also, in Turkey At the end of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century educated women began organizing themselves as feminists within the elites of Istanbul. These feminists fought to increase women’s access to education and to work low- paid, to abolish polygamy, etc. Early feminists printed woman magazines in different languages and established different organizations for women. Also during this time the Ottoman Welfare Organization of Women was first women association which was founded in Turkey in 1908. During the turn of the century accomplished writers and politicians such as Fatma Aliye Topuz (1862-1936), Nezihe Muhiddin (1889-1958) and Halide Edip AdÄ ±var (1884-1964) also joined the movement not only for advocating equality of Muslim women, but for women of all religions and ethnic backgrounds. ON THE HISTORY OF FEMINISM Feminism, in the most generic of definitions, is the theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes, and organized activity on behalf of women’s rights and common interests. There are many feminists and many different theories. However, feminism can be broken up into three waves; first-wave which was seen from the nineteenth century to the early twentieth century, second-wave which lasted from the early 1960’s through the late 1980’s, and the third-wave which started in the early 1990’s, and it continues through present time. In this sense, feminist history is divided into three waves. A) First-wave Feminism The first-wave of feminism began in the United Kingdom and the United States around the nineteenth century and lasted until the early twentieth century. It focused on gaining the right of women’s suffrage, the right to be educated, better working conditions and sexual standards. The term, ‘first-wave’ was coined after the term second-wave feminism. The goal of  this wave was to open up opportunities for women, with a focus on suffrage. The wave formally began at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 when 300 men and women rallied to the cause of equality for women. Also, it emphasized mandated inequalities; but primarily gaining women’s suffrage. In this part, some feminists suppose inequality, patriarchy, lack ok distinction between men and women. For example, one of the earliest manifestations of first-wave feminism in Europe, Mary Wollstonecraft’s ‘A Vindication of the Rights of Woman’ (1792) which was written in the wake of the Frenc h Revolution and Simone de Beauvoir’s ‘The Second Sex’ (1949) are central to the canon as well, even though both authors were also laying the groundwork for radical second-wave feminism. Beauvoir introduced the notion of women’s radical otherness or, rather, the cognitive and social process of â€Å"othering† women as the second sex in patriarchal societies. Finally, first-wave feminism has been clarified as socialist/Marxist feminism in workers’ unions in the United States, in reformist social-democratic parties in Europe, and during the rise of communism in the Soviet Union. Liberal and socialist/Marxist feminism shared a basic belief in equity and equal opportunities for women and men, but the latter focused particularly on working-class women and their involvement in class struggle. B) Second-wave Feminism The term second-wave feminism refers mostly to the radical feminism of the women’s liberation movement of the late 1960s and early 1990s. The second wave focused on the link between societal and cultural inequality and political inequality. This wave unfolded in the context of the anti-war and civil rights movements and the growing self-consciousness of minority groups around the world. In this phase, sexuality and reproductive rights were dominant issues. second-wave feminism is a period of feminist activity. This phase began with protests against the Miss America pageant in Atlantic City between 1968 -1969 in terms of women’ s beauty dominated by patriarchy and low-paying jobs. For example, there was a worldwide movement called ‘Women’s Liberation Movement’ which was seen in Europe and Turkey. For example, most of women who work in clothing and textile factory staged a protest to these factories in terms of unhealthy working conditions, low-paid, poor sanitation, etc and it started with strike. When the police attacked to women, it broke out fire and many women died because of fire in Europe.  Finally, at this stage, women’s liberation grew out of the New Left and provided alliances with socialist/Marxist feminisms in areas such as the criticism of the dual workload for women working outside as well as inside the home, the demand of equal pay for equal work, a breakdown of the gendered division of the educational system and the labor market. C) Third-wave Feminism The third wave began in the 1990s as a response to the perceived failures of second wave feminism. It is a more holistic approach and it seeks to fight inequality that occurs as a result of age, race, sexual orientation, economic status and education as well as gender. Third wave feminism is also known as a variety of other names including girlie feminism, lipstick feminism, and etc. Also, it currently emphasizes the concepts of globalization, post colonialism, post-structuralism, and postmodernism. Third-wave feminism is tied up with the effects of globalization and the complex redistribution of power, which challenge feminist theory and politics. It also mirrors the diversification of women’s interests and perspectives and the breakdown of master stories of oppression and liberation. Finally, Third-wave feminism manifests itself in â€Å"grrl† rhetoric, which seeks to overcome the theoretical question of equity or difference and the political question of evolution or revolution, while it challenges the notion of â€Å"universal womanhood† diversity, and multiplicity in transversal in theory and politics. TYPES OF FEMINISM Feminism, like Marxism, takes a macro approach to studying society. They argue that there is inequality between genders. Feminist sociologists argue that, on account of their sex, women experience injustices in favor of men. For Feminists, it is living in a patriarchal society that leads to inequalities for women. This means that men have tended to determine the lives of women. However, there are striking differences between feminists in their values and perspectives. These differences can be divided into three broad tendencies like Liberal Feminism, Radical Feminism, and Marxist/Socialist Feminism. Also, there are other feminist ideologies aimed at defining, establishing, and defending equal political, economic, and social rights for women such as; ecofeminism, multiracial feminism, moderate  feminism, etc.; but, these three main types of feminism is the most important ideologies in feminism. 1) Liberal Feminism Liberal feminism is a form of feminism that argues that equality for women can be achieved through legal means and social reform. Liberal feminism leans towards an equality or sameness argument with men. It primarily focuses on women’s ability to show and maintain their equality through their actions and choices. Liberal feminists argue that our society holds are false belief that women are, by nature, less intellectually and physically capable than men, it tends to discriminate against women in the academy, the forum, and marketplace. Liberal feminists seek equal rights with men and believe individuals should be treated in accordance with their talents and effort etc. as opposed to characteristics of their sex. They campaign to remove any obstacle, be it political, social, legal or economical that gets in the way of women having the same opportunities as their male counterparts. Gender prejudice is based around individual ignorance. Education is seen as a valuable tool in the battle against discrimination based around ignorance. It is possible to legislate against sexual discrimination as a way of changing individual attitudes and behavior. For example, this action came up with the Sex Discrimination and Equal Pay Acts in the 1970s in Britain. Liberal feminists also tend to support marriage as an equal partnership, and more male involvement in child care. Abortion and other reproductive rights have to do with control of one’s life choices and autonomy. Liberal feminism conceives of politics in individualistic terms and looks to reform present practices in society, rather than advocating for a wholesale revolutionary change. Feminist writers associated with this tradition include early feminist Mary Wollstonecraft and second-wave feminist Betty Friedan. 2) Radical Feminism Radical feminists believe that the main rival of women is patriarchy, which guarantees male supremacy and the subordination of women at work and in the home. Patriarchy has existed in all known human societies and, as such, pre-dates capitalist forms of gender inequality. Patriarchal relationships are considered to have paved the way for capitalist forms of economic and  gender exploitation. In their view, men inflict physical and sexual violence over women and commandeer the majority of material rewards. They believe that men are able to justify their actions by persuading people. It is natural that men should be the dominant sex. For radical feminists, sexual inequality is institutionalized in society. It is not possible to achieve sexual equality through legal means or by â€Å"changing people’s attitudes†. Radical feminism advocates lesbian relationships to free themselves from men. They argue that new technology eliminates dependency on men as a means of conceivi ng. This group views the oppression of women as the most fundamental form of oppression, one that cuts across boundaries of race, culture, and economic class. This is a movement intent on social change, change of rather revolutionary proportions. Some radical feminists argue that female emancipation can be achieved technologically like women being freed from childbirth. In general, radical feminists see the exploitation of women as involving both the public sphere like work and the private sphere like in the home. Finally, radical feminism locates the root cause of women’s oppression in patriarchal gender relations. In this sense, radical feminists believe that gender inequality is a result of the collective efforts of men to dominate, control, and exploit women. 3) Marxist/Socialist Feminism Marxist/Socialist Feminists believe social class affects the life chances of women; it is a key factor in the relationship between men and women. They believe capitalism has led to amplification of conflicts between the sexes and that introducing communism would solve this. Under capitalism women are a ‘reserve army of labor’ who are excluded from crafts and exploited for free labor in the home. They believe men are socialized into exploitative roles. The phrase â€Å"socialist feminism† was increasingly used during the 1970s to describe a mixed theoretical and practical approach to achieving women’s equality. Socialist feminist theory analyzed the connection between the oppression of women and other oppression in society, such as racism and economic injustice. Socialists had fought for decades to create a more equal society that did not exploit the poor and powerless in the ways capitalism did. Like Marxism, socialist feminism recognized the oppressive str ucture of capitalist society. Like radical feminism, socialist  feminism recognized the fundamental oppression of women in patriarchal society. However, socialist feminists did not recognize gender and only gender as the exclusive basis of all oppression. For Marxist feminists, the concept of social class is considered to be more important than the concept of patriarchy since the latter is seen as a form of ideology that stems from class exploitation. Women are not a sex class because the only thing they have in common is their sex as an upper class woman. Women’s work and their social status are highly marginalized by their potential / actual â€Å"dual role† in modern societies (baby sitter and worker). Employers are able to exploit this dual role to pay women lower wages. Men are able to exploit this dual role by receiving â€Å"unpaid services† within the home. The main reason for women’s lower status in relation to men is the fact that they are generally economically dependent upon their male partner. MARXIST FEMINIST THEORY AND EXPLOITATION OF WOMEN IN LABOR MARKET To begin with, most of women are exploited by both work inside and outside the home and this condition is not recent origin. It started with hunting and gathering societies, but they have been very active in the labor market since the Second World War period. Women are exploited by discriminating, oppressing, working, etc. and their live always face with difficulties by these causes. However, if we analyze the background of exploitation of women, it partially comes from inequality because in the contemporary world, inequality is manifest in the economic and social class which affects women more than men in the world. It still continues to increase in every part of the world because of the capitalism. In this sense, Marxist feminism emphasizes the social institutions of private property and capitalism to explain and criticize gender inequality and oppression. Private property gives rise to economic inequality, dependence, political, and is the root of women’s oppression in the social context. Capitalism still alive in the society and with growth of the capitalism, exploitation of women increases continuously. Capitalism gave to women in an insignificant way. Marxist feminists view the capitalist drive for profits as responsible for women’s second-class status and other forms of oppression such as racism or discrimination. Moreover, Marxist feminism believes that women are an exploited class in the capitalist mode of production, both by their   within families and by employers in the paid labor market and the theory indicates that men are in bourgeoisie and women are in the proletariat. Marx showed that how the working class is exploited for profit by capitalists who gain wealth by paying workers a bare minimum of the value that they produce. Marxism and feminism complement one another in many ways, as both are centrally concerned with oppression and inequality. Marxist theory states that people are oppressed by the ruling class and that production, namely capitalism, is the ruling force of society. According to feminist theory, women are oppressed by a male-driven society. Marxist feminism, the intersection of the two philosophi es, calls for the dismantling of capitalism to free the proletariat and promote gender equality. Karl Marx critiqued the capitalist power structure that oppressed the proletariat, and which also oppresses women. Marxism and feminism complement one another in many ways, as both are centrally concerned with oppression and inequality. Marxist theory states that people are oppressed by the ruling class and that production, namely capitalism, is the ruling force of society. According to feminist theory, women are oppressed by a male-driven society. Marxist feminism, the intersection of the two philosophies, calls for the dismantling of capitalism to free the proletariat and promote gender equality. Also, scholars influenced by Karl Marx have seen capitalism as an inherently exploitative system one in which capitalist workers, whose low wages do not fairly compensate them for the work that they perform. Others have taken opposite position, arguing that capitalist industrialization, although uneven in its consequences, brought about a rise in incomes and living standards for the bulk o f the working population. Furthermore, women have been always worked in the labor market, factories, marketplace, etc. They are partially seen in subordination status. The main reason for women’s lower status is relation to men is the fact that they are economically dependent upon their male partner. Sometimes women have to dependent on their male partner because men always work in a factory and marketplace and most of men seem like ‘breadwinner’. In this sense, patriarchy is an ideology that comes from male attempts to justify the economic exploitation of women and patriarchal forms of exploitation have existed in all known societies, not just capitalist ones. In addition, they argue that patriarchy predates capitalism which makes it more  significant explanation of female exploitation. In some Mexican and Central American plants, women expose to pressure in order to not to become pregnant so that companies do not have to pay maternity leave. This exploitation is in form of ‘sweatshop’ like working conditions. They give unproportional wage compared to male workers. Today, it still continues like that. For example, in Nike companies, women face to some difficulties such as low wages, poor sanitation, no break, unhealthy environment, no security. Women are mostly seen like slave and victim in every sector of market. They do not say anything because most of women want to be independent individual and make money for their family. Also, textile and food industries are mostly preferred by women even the working conditions are not convenient. According to Marx, society is broken up into two classes containing those who own the means of production (factories, tools, capital) and the laborers who are exploited to produce the items demanded by the ruling class. Marxist feminists are primarily concerned with the division of labor that keeps women in the domestic sphere and men in the workplace. In addition to this, when women enter the workforce, they are delegated to jobs that are deemed appropriate for their gender and are usually underpaid for their work. Working-class women are clearly the most oppressed, super-exploited sector of the entire proletariat. Also, Engels said that ‘‘†¦These measures are not aimed at driving all women permanently out of the work force. Rather, they make women more vulnerable to increased exploitation, by driving down their place in the work force (lower wages, fewer hours, less job security, fewer holidays, and more piece work, less safety and less unionization). Thus this attack is focused on a sector of the work force whose place in the work force has traditionally been seen as marginal, but its overall effect is to exert a downward pressure on the wages and conditions of all workers’’( Engels, 2004:8). CONCLUSION As a conclusion, women are generally underpaid compared to men in every part of sector and working conditions; but not just labor market. Also, they expose to discrimination, pressure, sexual harassment, exploitation inside the home. They are exploited more by capitalism than male workers in the labor market. In this sense, Marxist feminist theory attempts to explain the  structure of modern industrial society with special emphasis on class and labor and women workers are exploited at a higher level than male, with women of color suffering the highest degree of exploitation because of gender and race discrimination. In my point of view, exploitation of women is a social fact in our society, not only in labor market but also in other aspects of their daily life like at home. Ä ±n the contemporary world, inequality is manifest in all sectors, most of companies, factories applied to pressure to the women like pregnancy, low wages, no security. Although, Industrial Revolution gave new opportunities in terms of jobs, exploitation of women continued to expand in the world. Today, thanks to the institutions, women are more outgoing in the society, even the exploitation of women still grows up. As a final point, exploitation of women is seen like a normal action in the society, at least others are not like that. In this sense, women are not classified by their race, gender, inequality, etc. References 1. Salisbury, J. E. (2001) ‘‘Encyclopedia of Women In The Ancient World’’ 2. Volti, R. (2008) ‘‘An Introduction to the Sociology of Work and Occupation’’ 3. Binder, C. & Richmann N. (2000) ‘‘Feminist Movements in Turkey’’ 4. Vinteuil, F. (2010 September 27) ‘‘Marxism and Feminism from Critique Communiste’’ from http://www.internationalviewpoint.org 5. Shaw, S. M. & Lee, J. (2012) ‘‘ Women’s Voices, Feminist Visions: classic and contemporary readings ’’(5. Edition) 6. â€Å"Working Women in the 1930s.† American Decades. 2001. Retrieved January 09, 2014 from Encyclopedia.com :http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G2-3468301237.html 7. Brewer, P. 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