M1A2- Leadership and Ethics Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

M1A2- Leadership and Ethics - Assignment Example The rumors were about the managing Director embezzle the company’s resources. To add on that, the aspect of mismanagement, where employees were not included in planning and the issue of ethnicity and racism was so much in practice. This caused a lot of unrest among the staff that the managing director went into hiding. The situation was so bad, that even the organizational output decreased tremendously. The breech in ethical principles and etiquette cost the organization a great deal, as they had to come up with strategies on guidance and counseling for all the staff members to reach and address the root cause of the problem. Hence, the inter relationship between values, morals and work ethics was established in a bid to solve the crises. According to Duska (1998), values refer to the definition of the good and bad in society. Moral values are those attributes that are upheld and valued in the society. Typical values include honesty, integrity, compassion, courage, honor, resp onsibility, patriotism, respect and fairness. By that definition, one could categorize the values listed above (honesty, integrity, compassion †¦) as â€Å"moral values† - values derived from a higher authority. When one acts in ways, which are consistent with our beliefs (whether secular or derived from a moral authority), we will characterize that as acting ethically. Hence, for one to be ethical, they need to posses ethics and moral values. According to Naagarazan (2006) the strategies to address the ethical crises apply in real life, whereby one attends therapy sessions and guidance and counseling in case, they face conflicts at home and the workplace. These tactics instill self-confidence in the individual, in that they are able to address and face their problems. This strategy is therefore effective in both the work place and real life situations. Reference List Duska, R. F. (1998). Education, leadership and business ethics: Essays on the work of Clarence Walton. K luwer Academic Publishers: Dordrecht Naagarazan, R. S. (2006). Textbook on professional ethics and human values. New Age International (P) Ltd., Publishers: New Delhi. A true leader should be able to address the specific organizational requirements while rendering his or her duties of ethical leadership. Discuss how you think virtues of character and leadership skills are acquired or developed within specific organizational contexts. For any given organizational framework, analyze parameters that will help you identify principles of best practice for leadership development. Identify and analyze attributes and competencies of effective leadership that can help implement these principles of best practice. Sucher (2008) wrote that, some of the leadership traits like humility, aggressiveness, and patience are innate, in that one is born a leader. They are nurtured in the day-to-day handling of the people in the organization. On the other hand, there are those traits that are acquired th rough practicing leadership for example, conflict resolution and team building. There are also those traits in leadership that are acquired through training, for example, listening and empathy skills from guidance and counsel ling classes, conflict resolution and team building from the managing people courses that people attend. Peterson & Sondergaard (2008) asserted that an organization that experiences effective ethical leadership, experiences high output. The staff on the other

Abraham Lincolns second inaugural address Essay Example for Free

Abraham Lincolns second inaugural address Essay At the time of Abraham Lincoln’s second inaugural address, which was delivered in March 1865, the country had (long) been looking forward to the end of the Civil War. Lincoln’s second address is shorter than the first one because according to him there was no need for a long address because of the union’s current political situation. Compared to the first address, Lincoln is using many different kinds of rhetorical strategies like religious allusions, parallel structure, as well as diction in order to reunite a broken nation and make them feel united again, which I’m going to focus on in the following. Lincoln starts with the words â€Å"Fellow countrymen†, which shows that he sees himself on the same level as the other citizens, and not only their president. He also wants to emphasize that he pursues the same interests as everyone should: to stop the war. Lincoln often uses the rhetorical method of allusion, focusing on God and the Bible to reunite the country, the North and the South, by stating that they all have the same faith. In his second inaugural speech, Lincoln says, â€Å"Each looks for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental astounding. Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God’s assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men’s faces, but let us judge not, that we are not judged.† In this paragraph Lincoln is quoting the Bible, which is very smart and effective of Lincoln to use religious allusions like the ones stated above; Therefore, a lot of people can relate. He also wanted to point out that they should all be on the same side and not fight against each other. The main reason why the Civil War started was that the North and the South ha At the time of Abraham Lincoln’s second inaugural address, which was delivered in March 1865, the country had (long) been looking forward to the end of the Civil War. Lincoln’s second address is shorter than the first one because according to him there was no need for a long address because of the union’s current political situation. Compared to the first address, Lincoln is using many different kinds of rhetorical strategies like religious allusions, parallel structure, as well as diction in order to reunite a broken nation and make them feel united again, which I’m going to focus on in the following. Lincoln starts with the words â€Å"Fellow countrymen†, which shows that he sees himself on the same level as the other citizens, and not only their president. He also wants to emphasize that he pursues the same interests as everyone should: to stop the war. Lincoln often uses the rhetorical method of allusion, focusing on God and the Bible to reunite the country, the North and the South, by stating that they all have the same faith. In his second inaugural speech, Lincoln says, â€Å"Each looks for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental astounding. Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God’s assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men’s faces, but let us judge not, that we are not judged.† In this paragraph Lincoln is quoting the Bible, which is very smart and effective of Lincoln to use religious allusions like the ones stated above; Therefore, a lot of people can relate. He also wanted to point out that they should all be on the same side and not fight against each other. The usage of the word â€Å"both†, as in the quote above, often occurs during his speech, which is an example of how he uses his diction in order to try to connect the people and create a feeling of unity. The main reason why the Civil War started was that the North and the South had two different opinions on slavery. When Lincoln delivered his second address, this issue (was put in the background) but the two parties were still fighting. Lincoln also states, â€Å"†¦Let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds†¦Ã¢â‚¬  This statement is also an allusion to the Bible, which he is using to impact the people to help bring the nation back together. Lincoln is mentioning the pronouns â€Å"us† and â€Å"we†, to point out that it is about time to reunite the country, combining the North and the South. The word â€Å"work† implies Lincoln’s recognition of the sheer diligence, effort, and commitment needed to finish the war, but it also implies that he does not glorify the war. Neither does he speak of magnificent triumphs nor does he threaten the South with punishment. Instead, he speaks with moderation and modest y. Another example of an allusion is at the beginning of the speech when Lincoln says, â€Å"All dreaded it, all sought to avert it.† He is trying to treat both parties equally by saying â€Å"all† and not mentioning just the North or just the South. Nobody wanted a war, and nobody was fairly prepared for one but after so many years of fighting, losses, tears, and deaths they now have to come together to fix the â€Å"broken nation† and make peace again. Lincoln also concludes: â€Å"Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman\s two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said ‘the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.’\. Relating to this quote one can tell that Lincoln is not very fond of the war, but his faith in God and religion are very clear to see. â€Å"With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan – to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves, and with all nations.† These lines show Lincolns religious character in various ways. â€Å"With malice toward none† implies that he is willing to forgive the South and to recreate the Union with them without judging. â€Å"[W]with charity for all† implies his willingness to love everyone as Christians are taught to love according to the Bible; and â€Å"with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right† This passage shows that Lincoln is a man of the law, but that through God the people are able to see what is right and what is wrong. It is clear to see that Lincoln does not s eparate the nation into the North and the South, not even when he mentions the fallen soldiers and their grieving families. To Lincoln it does not make a difference which party one belongs to but that every single citizen finds their own peace and most importantly that the nation finds its peace as one. The main goal in his first address was to keep the nation together and to prevent the upcoming Civil War. In contrast to the second address, Lincoln then stated very clearly that the fate of the Union lies in the hands of the South and only they can prevent the Civil War: â€Å"In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow-countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war. The Government will not assail you. You can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors. You have no oath registered in heaven to destroy the Government, while I shall have the most solemn one to ‘preserve, protect, and defend it.’† He is calling the South themselves â€Å"the aggressors† and is separating himself and his union from the others, unlike his second address, in which he only uses the pronouns â€Å"us† and â€Å"we†, creating a unified feeling. d two different opinions on slavery. When Lincoln delivered his second address, this issue (was put in the background) but the two parties were still fighting. Lincoln also states, â€Å"†¦Let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds†¦Ã¢â‚¬  This statement is also an allusion to the Bible, which he is using to impact the people to help bring the nation back together. Lincoln is mentioning the pronouns â€Å"us† and â€Å"we†, to point out that it is about time to reunite the country, combining the North and the South. The word â€Å"work† implies Lincoln’s recognition of the sheer diligence, effort, and commitment needed to finish the war, but it also implies that he does not glorify the war. Neither does he speak of magnificent triumphs nor does the threat the South with punishment. Instead, he speaks with moderation and modesty. Lincoln also expresses his compassion, his special concern for the soldiers and his thoughtfulness, as well as condolences towards the suffering families. This shows that he is a man of peace who is also a man committed to justice.

Defining Types Of Hotel Accommodations

Defining Types Of Hotel Accommodations A hotel could be defined as a commercial establishment that provides short and long term lodging facility Hotel Definition, 2000. The standard for basic hotel, in times past, consisting of a room with a bed, a cupboard, a small table and a washstand. Now, the hotel industries are improved by providing rooms with modern facilities, including suite bathrooms and air conditioning or climate control. Other general features found in hotel rooms are a telephone, a television, snack foods and drinks. Bigger hotels may provide a number of additional guest facilities such as a restaurant, a swimming pool or childcare, tennis court and multipurpose hall. Nowadays, hotels are classified into Star categories, different country has different Star rating requirement, the standards mentioned below are the essential requirement for Star rating. 1-Star hotel provides a limited range of amenities and services, but the hotel should follow the cleanliness standard. 2-Star hotel need to have a good accommodation and well-equipped bedrooms, each room must have a telephone and attached private bathroom. 3-Star hotel has more spacious rooms, decorated with high-class decorations and furnishings, and a color TV. The hotel also provides a bars or lounges. 4-Star hotel is much more comfortable and larger with excellent cuisine provided (table dhote and a la carte), room services, good furnishings, and other amenities. 5-Star hotel offers most luxurious premises, widest range of guest services, guest sport facilities such as swimming pool, tennis court, and gym are necessary, and many choices of restaurants that provides different cuisines. ( Hotel Definition, 2000) A hotel milestone had gone through several decades. During 1980s, a big expansion of hotel occurred, a Hotel Boom #3 which generated by innovative marketing and development of specialized types of hotel (hotel design, planning and development), with the development that time, many hotels were combining large-scale commercial complex with hotel. From the development too, the airport hotel, conference centers, all-suite hotels, vacation villages, health spas, ski lodges and condominium resorts are expanding rapidly all over the continents. In 1990s, a tourism were slowed by the Gulf War (2 August 1990 2 February 1991), also recession of 1991 gave a lowest financial record in hotel history. Few years after early 1990s, hotel industry sector were restored into the normal condition, Hotel Boom #4 that generated by the new advanced technology, imaginative design and the successful marketing of mass customization of hotels, resorts, and leisure time amenities (Walter A. Rutes et al. 2001). After going for several decades of hotel industry developments and trends, now it is easy to find new types of hotel and people also now trying to invent new model of hotel in order to create new trend. These are some types of hotels found as below: Super Luxury Hotel In the hotel world, term luxury has a lot of definitions, it could be unique, personage, special service, elite customer, impressive settings and decorations, impeccable service, and elegant architecture. This hotel provides a private world of rare and refined beauty where the art of personalize service is conducted with efficiency and assurance. The super luxury hotel reputations and qualities are depending on the management style of the hotel owner and its staff. Security and privacy are the essential features of super-luxury hotels and also an advanced technology will produce ever more sophisticated systems, high technology systems as electronic door locks, surveillance cameras and window sensors would add guests peace of mind. Most of the super-luxury hotels derive their luxurious character from the superb historical buildings the occupied, The Lanesborough, London, England is one of the hotels that became a national landmark, and formerly the building of this hotel was a hospital. The entrance lobbies from most of super luxury hotels are elegant and definitely shows the residential character. The Four Seasons Hotel New York, the first major chain hotel that achieved super-luxury status, gives an exception to the rule with regard the scale of the lobby. Three separate desks were designed for the lobby; reception, concierge and cashier. Meanwhile, the guestrooms and suites of the super-luxury hotels are fully detail design and furnishings. Each room were equipped with bedside controls that allows guest to open or close drapes, turn on a discreet privacy sign or call a maid service. The bathrooms of a super-luxury hotels now exceed one-third of the overall room size, with a multiple head showers with ten-button controls and automatic temperature settings, marble vanity with two porcelain basins and brass fittings, heated fog-free mirror and heated towel bars. Specialty suites offer deep whirlpool baths with windows facing the spectacular view. (Walter A. Rutes et al. 2001) Casino Hotel Casino hotel defined as a combination of a lodging establishment with the casino gaming. Most of casino hotels are providing not just an accommodation and a casino, but there are some entertainments such as the circus show, dance and singing show, clubs, lots of food and beverage outlets, theme park, shopping areas and many other attractions. With the entertainments provided for the guests, casino hotel have became one of the most favorite destination to the customer because the guest could get the whole things in one destination. The Flamingo, who was built in Las Vegas, USA and is the first casino hotel, was totally attracting customer. In that time, Las Vegas desert were transformed into the worlds largest multifaceted resort and that was when casino hotel became one of tourist destination. After that, the trends of casino hotel have expanded widely thorough every continent. In USA, Treasure Island and The Mirage hotel were built, by providing a total of 130,000 rooms, special theme, superb attractions, and many more. From that moment, the Four Seasons Hotel, Bellagio and The Venetian also enter the market of casino hotel in Las Vegas. The Palace of the Lost City which located in South Africa, who gives a fundamental design that involving the architects of WATG and raised the art conceiving themes and authentic detailing and blended design with the natural and cultural environment. Hyatt Regency Tamaya that located in New Mexico exemplifies new casino resort with a concept of museum. In Asia Region, Genting Highland which located in Malaysia is the famous casino hotel among Asian, the company who develop the Genting Resort is Resort World, this company has another two casino hotels located in Singapore and Manila. Most of the casino hotel rooms are larger and more luxuriously planned and appointed than suburban or downtown hotels, but there are casino some casino hotels that offer small room and breakfast only, but this offer also comes with a good price, this small room offer usually used to attract teenagers and small or middle income guest. A unique model is located at the end of the guestroom tower floors, semicircular in plan, offering a panoramic bay window view from the sunny living room By providing a casino, casino hotel has a greater ratio of nonrevenue-producing space than any other hotel type like high-roller suites and villas that exclusively provided for high-stake players, star-suites for famous entertainers, and a cuisine hold tables permanently reserved in restaurants on or near the gaming area for quick service for the high-rollers who wants to use its maximum time on gaming. For the convention facilities, because of the trends of combining large trade shows with related corporate and association conventions, todays 1,000-room and larger casino hotels more than meet the requirements of the convention market. The groups, including family incentive groups, increasingly look to meet at a resort location, as a result of this trends, casino hotels adds another extras addition like theme parks, small luxury signature restaurants and several more sophisticated, rather than merely larger, entertainment programs position casino hotels to increase their penetration of the convention market. (Walter A. Rutes et al. 2001) Resorts Resorts defined as an establishment used for relaxation or recreation, mostly operated by a single company or a chain company. Resorts attempts to provide its customer wants while their customers remain in the premises, some of the provided things are swimming pool, food, drink, entertainment, and shopping. Main visual features that people focus on resorts are the landscaping, natural environment, and the building finishes. There are several types of resorts with every special characteristic of each type, it is listed as below: Beach, Golf and Tennis Resorts This type of resorts provides a beach, golf and tennis in one place, also most of this resort comes with the spectacular views, water sports, and fresh air. Such resort amenities also attract the typical business travelers who sometimes choose this kind of resort over a downtown or suburban hotels. Corporate groups now also prefer resorts for business gatherings, as their more relaxed atmosphere promotes teamwork and closer personal contacts. Besides beach, swimming pool also becomes one of the essential in beach, golf and tennis resorts. Since guests spend more time in public pool than a public space, swimming pools will affects guests overall impression of the resort. Factors that need to be concerned for Beach, Golf and Tennis Resorts are: Preparing environmental and other analyses and keep clear documentation at every different stage Identify the government agency responsible for approving various aspects of the project Obtain copies of all legal requirements, necessary permits, or technical standards applying to projects Monitor construction and proactively seek government inspection and approval at each stage. Vacation Village

Analysis of Shakespeares Sonnet 20 Essay -- Papers Shakespeare Sonnet

Analysis of Shakespeare's Sonnet 20 Sonnet 20 appears to be about an affectionate love that the speaker develops for an unnamed man. He describes the man as having a woman's face that Nature painted with its own hand. The speaker calls this admired person his "master mistress." He goes on to say that this man has the gentle heart of a woman but is not inconsistent as is the way with women. He has eyes that are brighter than the eyes of any women. His eyes are so true and sincere that they light up every object that they look upon. He is a man of shape and form (and of authority) and all other figures are in his control. Furthermore, he steals the attention of men and amazes the hearts of women. The speaker continues to explain his reasons for not being able to be with this man. The speaker claims that this man was originally intended to be created as a woman. However, Nature made a foolish mistake in making him. By adding one extra thing, Nature has defeated the poet. By adding this one feature, she has prevented the poet from ever fulfilling his desire in having him. Then the poet exclaims that although Nature made this man for the pleasure of women, let his body be women's treasure and let him have this man's love. Sonnets are often written about desire, whether it be the desire of a man and woman for one another, or a desire to fulfill a missing element in one's life. William Shakespeare's sonnets are well-known for including varying themes of shame, happiness, melancholy, fear and so forth. His sonnets focus on a young man, a woman and sometimes a male friend, often expressing the relationships between all three. Sonnet 20... ..."hue" and "hues" as though to note a difference in the meaning of each word. This works out because they do have different meanings in the ways that they are used. "Hue" refers to the authority of the speaker, whereas after the break, "hues" become all the other figures or men who have also been drawn to this particular man. Thus, it is evident in the overall poem that the relationship between the speaker and the targeted male is not of two good friends. The speaker is experiencing a feeling of deep sensual love for a man. Indeed, there is nothing in a poem that is accidental. The structure, rhythm, and even the sound of the poem is a clue in grasping the poem's true meaning. Works Cited: Shakespeare, William. ?Sonnet 20? Poetry Archive. http://www.poetry-archive.com/s/shakespeare_sonnet_020.html (05/08/2003). Analysis of Shakespeare's Sonnet 20 Essay -- Papers Shakespeare Sonnet Analysis of Shakespeare's Sonnet 20 Sonnet 20 appears to be about an affectionate love that the speaker develops for an unnamed man. He describes the man as having a woman's face that Nature painted with its own hand. The speaker calls this admired person his "master mistress." He goes on to say that this man has the gentle heart of a woman but is not inconsistent as is the way with women. He has eyes that are brighter than the eyes of any women. His eyes are so true and sincere that they light up every object that they look upon. He is a man of shape and form (and of authority) and all other figures are in his control. Furthermore, he steals the attention of men and amazes the hearts of women. The speaker continues to explain his reasons for not being able to be with this man. The speaker claims that this man was originally intended to be created as a woman. However, Nature made a foolish mistake in making him. By adding one extra thing, Nature has defeated the poet. By adding this one feature, she has prevented the poet from ever fulfilling his desire in having him. Then the poet exclaims that although Nature made this man for the pleasure of women, let his body be women's treasure and let him have this man's love. Sonnets are often written about desire, whether it be the desire of a man and woman for one another, or a desire to fulfill a missing element in one's life. William Shakespeare's sonnets are well-known for including varying themes of shame, happiness, melancholy, fear and so forth. His sonnets focus on a young man, a woman and sometimes a male friend, often expressing the relationships between all three. Sonnet 20... ..."hue" and "hues" as though to note a difference in the meaning of each word. This works out because they do have different meanings in the ways that they are used. "Hue" refers to the authority of the speaker, whereas after the break, "hues" become all the other figures or men who have also been drawn to this particular man. Thus, it is evident in the overall poem that the relationship between the speaker and the targeted male is not of two good friends. The speaker is experiencing a feeling of deep sensual love for a man. Indeed, there is nothing in a poem that is accidental. The structure, rhythm, and even the sound of the poem is a clue in grasping the poem's true meaning. Works Cited: Shakespeare, William. ?Sonnet 20? Poetry Archive. http://www.poetry-archive.com/s/shakespeare_sonnet_020.html (05/08/2003).

Communication Skills Essay

1. Summary In summary, this report is based on the based on how the skill of effective communication can improve your writing, listening, conflict and anger management skills. It is seen that communication is the key to proper writing which is critical to tertiary education students as is required for the successful completion of a certificate, degree and masters. Also, communication can be an influential force in effective listening, which is important for job interviews, group projects and communication in the workplace. Lastly, there is conflict and anger management which are problems that usually arrive due to the lack of adequate communication skills. 2. Introduction 2.1 Communication Communication is the exchange and flow of information and ideas from one person to another; it involves a sender transmitting an idea, information, or feeling to a receiver. Effective communication occurs only if the receiver understands the exact information or idea that the sender intended to transmit. Many of the problems that occur in an organization are the either the direct result of people failing to communicate and/or processes, which leads to confusion and can cause good plans to fail (U.S. Army, 1983). The following are elements of communication (Pearson, 1983): 1.1.1 Communication Channels This is the term given to the way in which we communicate. There are multiple communication channels available to us today, for example face-to-face conversations, telephone calls, text messages, email, the Internet (including social media such as Facebook and Twitter), radio and TV, written letters, brochures and reports to name just a few. As a result choosing an appropriate communication channel is vital for effective communication as each communication channel has different strengths and weaknesses. 1.1.2 Encoding Messages All messages must be encoded into a form that can be conveyed by the  communication channel chosen for the message. We all do this every day when transferring abstract thoughts into spoken words or a written form. However, other communication channels require different forms of encoding, e.g. text written for a report will not work well if broadcast via a radio programme, and the short, abbreviated text used in text messages would be inappropriate if sent via a letter. Complex data may be best communicated using a graph or chart or other visualisation. Effective communicators encode their messages with their intended audience in mind as well as the communication channel. This involves an appropriate use of language, conveying the information simply and clearly, anticipating and eliminating likely causes of confusion and misunderstanding, and knowing the receivers’ experience in decoding other similar communications. Successful encoding of messages is a vital skill in effecti ve communication. 1.1.3 Decoding Messages Once received, the receivers need to decode the message, and successful decoding is also a vital skill. Individuals will decode and understand messages in different ways based upon any Barriers to Communication which might be present, their experience and understanding of the context of the message, their psychological state, and the time and place of receipt as well as many other potential factors. Understanding how the message will be decoded, and anticipating as many of the potential sources of misunderstanding as possible, is the art of a successful communicator. 1.1.4 Feedback Receivers of messages are likely to provide feedback on how they have understood the messages through both verbal and non-verbal reactions. Effective communicators should pay close attention to this feedback as it the only way to assess whether the message has been understood as intended, and it allows any confusion to be corrected. Bear in mind that the extent and form of feedback will vary according to the communication channel used: for example feedback during a face-to-face or telephone conversation will be immediate and direct, whilst feedback to messages conveyed via TV or radio will be indirect and may be delayed, or even conveyed through other media such as the Internet. Without the above elements it would be impossible to  have effective communication. 2. Types of Communication People communicate with each other in a number of ways that depend upon the message and its context in which it is being sent. Choice of communication channel and your style of communicating also affect communication. So, there are varieties of types of communication. Types of communication based on the communication channels used are (Muhammad, 2012): Verbal Communication Nonverbal Communication 2.1 Verbal Communication Verbal communication refers to the form of communication in which message is transmitted verbally; communication is done by word of mouth and a piece of writing. Objective of every communication is to have people understand what we are trying to convey. In verbal communication remember the acronym KISS (keep it short and simple). When we talk to others, we assume that others understand what we are saying because we know what we are saying. But this is not the case. Usually people bring their own attitude, perception, emotions and thoughts about the topic and hence creates barrier in delivering the right meaning. So in order to deliver the right message, you must put yourself on the other side of the table and think from your receiver’s point of view. Would he understand the message? How it would sound on the other side of the table? Verbal Communication is further divided into: Oral Communication Written Communication 2.1.1 Oral Communication In oral communication, Spoken words are used. It includes face-to-face conversations, speech, telephonic conversation, video, radio, television, voice over internet. In oral communication, communication is influence by pitch, volume, speed and clarity of speaking. Advantages of Oral communication are: It brings quick feedback. In a face-to-face conversation, by reading facial expression and body language one can guess whether he/she should trust what’s being said or not. Disadvantage of oral communication: In face-to-face discussion, the user is unable to deeply think about what he is delivering; as a result they may say the wrong thing. 2.1.2 Written Communication In written communication, written signs or symbols are used to communicate. A written message may be printed or hand written. In written communication message can be transmitted via email, letter, report, memo etc. Message, in written communication, is influenced by the vocabulary & grammar used, writing style, precision and clarity of the language used. Written Communication is most common form of communication being used in business. So, it is considered core among business skills. Memos, reports, bulletins, job descriptions, employee manuals, and electronic mail are the types of written communication used for internal communication. For communicating with external environment in writing, electronic mail, Internet Web sites, letters, proposals, telegrams, faxes, postcards, contracts, advertisements, brochures, and news releases are used. Advantages of written communication include: Messages can be edited and revised many times before it is actually sent. Written communication provides record for every message sent and can be saved for later study. A written message enables receiver to fully understand it and send appropriate feedback. Disadvantages of written communication include: Unlike oral communication, written communication doesn’t bring instant feedback. It takes more time in composing a written message as compared to word-of-mouth. A number of people may struggle with their writing ability. 2.2 Nonverbal Communication Nonverbal communication is the sending or receiving of wordless messages. We  can say that communication other than oral and written, such as gesture, body language, posture, tone of voice or facial expressions, is called nonverbal communication. Nonverbal communication is all about the body language of speaker. Nonverbal communication helps receiver in interpreting the message received. Often, nonverbal signals reflect the situation more accurately than verbal messages. Sometimes nonverbal responses contradict verbal communication and hence affect the effectiveness of message. Nonverbal communication has the following three elements: 1. Appearance Speaker: clothing, hairstyle, neatness, use of cosmetics Surrounding: room size, lighting, decorations, furnishings 2. Body Language Facial expressions, gestures, postures 3. Sounds Voice Tone, Volume, and Speech rate 3. Barriers to Communication There exist many barriers to communication and these may occur at any stage in the communication process. Barriers may lead to your message becoming distorted and you therefore risk wasting both time and/or money by causing confusion and misunderstanding. Effective communication involves overcoming these barriers and conveying a clear and concise message. 3.1 Physical Barriers An example of a physical barrier to communication is geographic distance between the sender and receiver(s). Communication is generally easier over shorter distances as more communication channels are available and less technology is required. Although modern technology often serves to reduce the impact of physical barriers, the advantages and disadvantages of each communication channel should be understood so that an appropriate channel can be used to overcome the physical barriers (Ting-Toomey and Chung, 2004). 3.2 Psychological/Emotional Barriers To communicate effectively, according to McBride and Maitland (2001, p.117) you must clearly convey thoughts and emotions both verbally and nonverbally. Many times, emotional barriers on your part or the part of the person you are speaking with may inhibit your ability to communicate on an effective level. Your emotional state may influence your capacity to make yourself understood and hamper your understanding of others. 3.3 Cultural Barriers Cultures provide people with ways of thinking–ways of seeing, hearing, and interpreting the world. Thus the same words can mean different things to people from different cultures, even when they talk the â€Å"same† language. When the languages are different, and translation has to be used to communicate, the potential for misunderstandings increases. Ting-Toomey and Chung (2004) describes three ways in which culture interferes with communication as: 1. Cognitive Constraints – These are the frames of reference or world views that provide a backdrop that all new information is compared to or inserted into. 2. Behaviour Constraints – Each culture has its own rules about proper behaviour which affect verbal and nonverbal communication. 3. Emotional Constraints – Different cultures regulate the display of emotion differently. Some cultures get very emotional when they are debating an issue. However, this fails to take account of â€Å"Linguistic Constr aints† that may be involved when communicating with someone from a different culture. The lack of knowledge about all barriers can hinder your attempt to communicate effectively. 3. Effective Listening 3.1 Listening It is vital to keep an open mind while you are listening. If you have already judged a situation and come to an option you are likely to hear only those things which are consistent with your existing opinion. Focus on what the speaker is saying and how they are saying it. Failure to adhere to these rules it may make it difficult for you to communicate effectively and clearly understand what is expected of you, whether the requirements for an assignment or specifications for a module. Effective listening will be  crucial to your success in writing for educational advance (Cameron, 2009). 4. Conflict and Anger Management 4.1 Conflict Conflict is a lack of agreement between opinions and principles of needs, values and interests. Conflict can be internal (within oneself) or external (between two or more individuals). Conflict as a concept can help explain many aspects of social life such as social disagreement, conflict of interests, and fights between individuals, groups or organisations. In political terms, â€Å"conflict† can refer to wars, revolutions or other struggles, which may involve the use of force as in the term â€Å"armed conflict† (Myers, 2007). Conflict can be a major hindrance for effective communication, but can be controlled through proper communication skills. 4.2 Anger Management Anger is an emotion related to one’s psychological interpretation of having been offended, wronged, or denied and a tendency to react through retaliation. Anger is a normal emotion that involves a strong uncomfortable and emotional response to a perceived provocation. The term anger management commonly refers to a system of psychological therapeutic techniques and exercises by which someone with excessive or uncontrollable anger and aggression can control or reduce the triggers, degrees, and effects of an angered emotional state (Centrec Care, 2002). Through networks that facilitates proper communication such as therapy or counselling one can learn how to proper deal with their anger which can be a barrier to effective communication. 5. Conclusion In conclusion, these are all ways by which communication can be helpful to an individual who is interesting in building their employability, writing and interpersonal skills. Communication is vital to everyday task and can be the deciding factor on its successful completion or failure. Effective communication is a skill that can be applied to a wide variety of other skills. Once used properly this is no limit to the new skills you can attain. 6. Recommendations The purpose of this report is to inform readers on the importance of having effective communication skills and how it can help improve your other skills such as listening, writing and conflict management. I recommend that reader try to implement each of the listed skills above through communication to help them advance in their goals. Whether it is to listen more and talk less or just being aware of your tone and body language when communicating to others. You may be surprised by the difference in response you may receive from others. 4. References 1. SkillsYouNeed, 2013. What is Communication? [online] Available at: [Accessed 9 December 2013]. 2. SkillsYouNeed, 2013. Barriers to Effective Communication. [online] Available at: [Accessed 9 December 2013]. 3. McBride, P. and Maitland, S., 2001. The EI Advantage: Putting Emotional Intelligence into Practice. [e-book] Berkshire: McGraw Hill Professional. Available at: Google Books [Accessed 30 November 2013]. 4. Ting-Toomey, S. and Chung. C. L., 2004. Understanding Intercultural Communication. [e-book] USA: Oxford University Press. Available at: Google Books [Accessed 30 November 2013]. 5. Cameron, S., 2009. The Business Student’s Handbook: Skills for Study and Employment. 5th ed. Essex: Pearson Education Limited. 6. Muhammad, A. B., 2012. Communication Process. [online] Available at: [Accessed 5 December 2013]. 7. U.S. Army, 1983. Military Leadership. FM 22-100. Washington: U.S. Government Printing Office. 8. Pearson, J., 1983. Interpersonal Communication. Illinois: Scott, Foreman and Company. 9. Myers, G. D., 2007. Social Psychology. 9th ed. Berkshire: McGraw Hill Professional. 10. Centrec Care, 2002. Anger Management Counselling. [online] Available at: [Accessed 5 December 2013].

Spirit Bound Chapter One

THERE'S A BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN death threats and love letters–even if the person writing the death threats still claims to actually love you. Of course, considering I once tried to kill someone I loved, maybe I had no right to judge. Today's letter had been perfectly timed, not that I should have expected any less. I'd read it four times so far, and even though I was running late, I couldn't help but read it a fifth time. My dearest Rose, One of the few downsides to being awakened is that we no longer require sleep; therefore we also no longer dream. It's a shame, because if I could dream, I know I'd dream about you. I'd dream about the way you smell and how your dark hair feels like silk between my fingers. I'd dream about the smoothness of your skin and the fierceness of your lips when we kiss. Without dreams, I have to be content with my own imagination–which is almost as good. I can picture all of those things perfectly, as well as how it'll be when I take your life from this world. It's something I regret having to do, but you've made my choice inevitable. Your refusal to join me in eternal life and love leaves no other course of action, and I can't allow someone as dangerous as you to live. Besides, even if I forced your awakening, you now have so many enemies among the Strigoi that one of them would kill you. If you must die, it'll be by my hand. No one else's. Nonetheless, I wish you well today as you take your trials–not that you need any luck. If they're actually making you take them, it's a waste of everyone's time. You're the best in that group, and by this evening you'll wear your promise mark. Of course, that means you'll be all that much more of a challenge when we meet again–which I'll definitely enjoy. And we will be meeting again. With graduation, you'll be turned out of the Academy, and once you're outside the wards, I'll find you. There is no place in this world you can hide from me. I'm watching. Love, Dimitri Despite his â€Å"warm wishes† I didn't really find the letter inspiring as I tossed it onto my bed and blearily left the room. I tried not to let his words get to me, though it was kind of impossible to not be creeped out by something like that. There is no place in this world you can hide from me. I didn't doubt it. I knew Dimitri had spies. Since my former instructor-turned-lover had been turned into an evil, undead vampire, he'd also become a sort of leader among them–something I'd helped speed along when I killed off his former boss. I suspected a lot of his spies were humans, watching for me to step outside my school's borders. No Strigoi could have stayed on a twenty-four-hour stakeout. Humans could, and I'd recently learned that plenty of humans were willing to serve the Strigoi in exchange for the promise of being turned someday. Those humans considered eternal life worth corrupting their souls and killing off others to survive. Those humans made me sick. But the humans weren't what made my steps falter as I walked through grass that had turned bright green with summer's touch. It was Dimitri. Always Dimitri. Dimitri, the man I'd loved. Dimitri, the Strigoi I wanted to save. Dimitri, the monster I'd most likely have to kill. The love we'd shared always burned within me, no matter how often I told myself to move on, no matter how much the world did think I'd moved on. He was always with me, always on my mind, always making me question myself. â€Å"You look like you're ready to face an army.† I shifted out of my dark thoughts. I'd been so fixated on Dimitri and his letter that I'd been walking across campus, oblivious to the world, and hadn't noticed my best friend, Lissa, falling into step with me, a teasing smile on her face. Her catching me by surprise was a rarity because we shared a psychic bond, one that always kept me aware of her presence and feelings. I had to be pretty distracted to not notice her, and if ever there was a distraction, it was someone wanting to kill me. I gave Lissa what I hoped was a convincing smile. She knew what had happened to Dimitri and how he was now waiting to kill me after I'd tried–and failed–to kill him. Nonetheless, the letters I got from him every week worried her, and she had enough to deal with in her life without my undead stalker to add to the list. â€Å"I kind of am facing an army,† I pointed out. It was early evening, but late summer still found the sun up in the Montana sky, bathing us in golden light as we walked. I loved it, but as a Moroi–a peaceful, living vampire–Lissa would eventually grow weak and uncomfortable in it. She laughed and tossed her platinum hair over one shoulder. The sun lit up the pale color into angelic brilliance. â€Å"I suppose. I didn't think you'd really be all that worried.† I could understand her reasoning. Even Dimitri had said these would be a waste of my time. After all, I'd gone to Russia to search for him and had faced real Strigoi–killing a number of them on my own. Maybe I shouldn't have been afraid of the upcoming tests, but all the fanfare and expectation suddenly pressed in upon me. My heart rate increased. What if I couldn't do it? What if I wasn't as good as I thought I was? The guardians who would challenge me out here might not be true Strigoi, but they were skilled and had been fighting a lot longer than me. Arrogance could get me into a lot of trouble, and if I failed, I'd be doing it in front of all the people who cared about me. All the people who had such faith in me. One other thing also concerned me. â€Å"I'm worried about how these grades will affect my future,† I said. That was the truth. The trials were the final exam for a novice guardian like me. They ensured I could graduate from St. Vladimir's Academy and take my place with true guardians who defended Moroi from the Strigoi. The trials pretty much decided which Moroi a guardian would be assigned to. Through our bond, I felt Lissa's compassion–and her worry. â€Å"Alberta thinks there's a good chance we can stay together–that you'll still be my guardian.† I grimaced. â€Å"I think Alberta was saying that to keep me in school.† I'd dropped out to hunt Dimitri a few months ago and then returned–something that didn't look good on my academic record. There was also the small fact that the Moroi queen, Tatiana, hated me and would probably be going out of her way to influence my assignment–but that was another story. â€Å"I think Alberta knows the only way they'd let me protect you is if I was the last guardian on earth. And even then, my odds would still be pretty slim.† Ahead of us, the roar of a crowd grew loud. One of the school's many sports fields had been transformed into an arena on par with something from Roman gladiatorial days. The bleachers had been built up, expanded from simple wooden seats to luxuriously cushioned benches with awnings to shade the Moroi from the sun. Banners surrounded the field, their bright colors visible from here as they whipped in the wind. I couldn't see them yet, but I knew there would be some type of barracks built near the stadium's entrance where novices waited, nerves on edge. The field itself would have turned into an obstacle course of dangerous tests. And from the sound of those deafening cheers, plenty were already there to witness this event. â€Å"I'm not giving up hope,† Lissa said. Through the bond, I knew she meant it. It was one of the wonderful things about her–a steadfast faith and optimism that weathered the most terrible ordeals. It was a sharp contrast to my recent cynicism. â€Å"And I've got something that might help you out today.† She came to a stop and reached into her jeans pocket, producing a small silver ring scattered with tiny stones that looked like peridots. I didn't need any bond to understand what she was offering. â€Å"Oh, Liss†¦ I don't know. I don't want any, um, unfair advantage.† Lissa rolled her eyes. â€Å"That's not the problem, and you know it. This one's fine, I swear.† The ring she offered me was a charm, infused with the rare type of magic she wielded. All Moroi had control of one of five elements: earth, air, water, fire, or spirit. Spirit was the rarest–so rare, it had been forgotten over the centuries. Then Lissa and a few others had recently surfaced with it. Unlike the other elements, which were more physical in nature, spirit was tied into the mind and all sorts of psychic phenomena. No one fully understood it. Making charms with spirit was something Lissa had only recently begun to experiment with–and she wasn't very good at it. Her best spirit ability was healing, so she kept trying to make healing charms. The last one had been a bracelet that singed my arm. â€Å"This one works. Only a little, but it'll help keep the darkness away during the trial.† She spoke lightly, but we both knew the seriousness of her words. With all of spirit's gifts came a cost: a darkness that showed itself now as anger and confusion, and eventually led to insanity. Darkness that sometimes bled over into me through our bond. Lissa and I had been told that with charms and her healing, we could fight it off. That was also something we had yet to master. I gave her a faint smile, moved by her concern, and accepted the ring. It didn't scald my hand, which I took as a promising sign. It was tiny and only fit on my pinky. I felt nothing whatsoever as it slid on. Sometimes that happened with healing charms. Or it could mean the ring was completely ineffectual. Either way, no harm done. â€Å"Thanks,† I said. I felt delight sweep through her, and we continued walking. I held my hand out before me, admiring the way the green stones glittered. Jewelry wasn't a great idea in the kind of physical ordeals I'd be facing, but I would have gloves on to cover it. â€Å"Hard to believe that after this, we'll be done here and out in the real world,† I mused aloud, not really considering my words. Beside me, Lissa stiffened, and I immediately regretted speaking. â€Å"Being out in the real world† meant Lissa and I were going to undertake a task she'd–unhappily–promised to help me with a couple months ago. While in Siberia, I'd learned there might be a way to restore Dimitri back to being a dhampir like me. It was a long shot–possibly a lie–and considering the way he was fixated on killing me, I had no illusions that I would have any other choice but to kill him if it came down to him or me. But if there was a way I might save him before that happened, I had to find out. Unfortunately, the only lead we had to making this miracle come true was through a criminal. Not just any criminal either: Victor Dashkov, a royal Moroi who had tortured Lissa and committed all sorts of other atrocities that had made our lives hell. Justice had been served, and Victor was locked away in prison, which complicated things. We'd learned that so long as he was destined for a life behind bars, he saw no reason to share what he knew about his half-brother–the only person who had once allegedly saved a Strigoi. I'd decided–possibly illogically–that Victor might give up the information if we offered him the one thing no one else could: freedom. This idea was not foolproof, for a number of reasons. First, I didn't know if it would work. That was kind of a big thing. Second, I had no idea how to stage a prison break, let alone where his prison even was. And finally, there was the fact that we would be releasing our mortal enemy. That was devastating enough to me, let alone Lissa. Yet as much as the idea troubled her–and believe me, it did–she'd firmly sworn she would help me. I'd offered to free her from the promise dozens of times in the last couple months, but she'd stood firm. Of course, considering we had no way to even find the prison, her promise might not matter in the end. I tried to fill the awkward silence between us, explaining instead that I'd really meant we'd be able to celebrate her birthday in style next week. My attempts were interrupted by Stan, one of my longtime instructors. â€Å"Hathaway!† he barked, coming from the direction of the field. â€Å"Nice of you to join us. Get in there now!† Thoughts of Victor vanished from Lissa's mind. Lissa gave me a quick hug. â€Å"Good luck,† she whispered. â€Å"Not that you need it.† Stan's expression told me that this ten-second goodbye was ten seconds too long. I gave Lissa a grin by way of thanks, and then she headed off to find our friends in the stands while I scurried after Stan. â€Å"You're lucky you aren't one of the first ones,† he growled. â€Å"People were even making bets about whether you'd show.† â€Å"Really?† I asked cheerfully. â€Å"What kind of odds are there on that? Because I can still change my mind and put down my own bet. Make a little pocket money.† His narrowed eyes shot me a warning that needed no words as we entered the waiting area adjacent to the field, across from the stands. It had always amazed me in past years how much work went into these trials, and I was no less impressed now as I saw it up close. The barrack that novices waited in was constructed out of wood, complete with a roof. The structure looked as though it had been part of the stadium forever. It had been built with remarkable speed and would be taken down equally quickly once the trials were over. A doorway about three people wide gave a partial glimpse onto the field, where one of my classmates was waiting anxiously for her name to be called. All sorts of obstacles were set up there, challenges to test balance and coordination while still having to battle and elude the adult guardians who would be lurking around objects and corners. Wooden walls had been constructed on one end of the field, creating a dark and confusing maze. Nets and shaky platforms hung across other areas, designed to test just how well we could fight under difficult conditions. A few of the other novices crowded the doorway, hoping to get an advantage by watching those who went ahead of them. Not me. I would go in there blind, content to take on whatever they threw before me. Studying the course now would simply make me overthink and panic. Calm was what I needed now. So I leaned against one of the barrack walls and watched those around me. It appeared that I really had been the last to show up, and I wondered if people had actually lost money betting on me. Some of my classmates whispered in clusters. Some were doing stretches and warm-up exercises. Others stood with instructors who had been mentors. Those teachers spoke intently to their students, giving last-minute words of advice. I kept hearing words like focus and calm down. Seeing the instructors made my heart clench. Not so long ago, that was how I'd pictured this day. I'd imagined Dimitri and me standing together, with him telling me to take this seriously and not to lose my cool when I was out on the field. Alberta had done a fair amount of mentoring for me since I'd returned from Russia, but as captain, she was out on the field herself now, busy with all sorts of responsibilities. She had no time to come in here and hold my hand. Friends of mine who might have offered comfort–Eddie, Meredith, and others–were wrapped up in their own fears. I was alone. Without her or Dimitri–or, well, anyone–I felt a surprising ache of loneliness flow through me. This wasn't right. I shouldn't have been alone. Dimitri should have been here with me. That's how it was supposed to have been. Closing my eyes, I allowed myself to pretend he was really there, only inches away as we spoke. â€Å"Don't worry, comrade. I can do this blindfolded. Hell, maybe I actually will. Do you have anything I can use? If you're nice to me, I'll even let you tie it on.† Since this fantasy would have taken place after we'd slept together, there was a strong possibility that he would have later helped me take off that blindfold–among other things. I could perfectly picture the exasperated shake of his head that would earn me. â€Å"Rose, I swear, sometimes it feels like every day with you is my own personal trial.† But I knew he'd smile anyway, and the look of pride and encouragement he'd give me as I headed toward the field would be all I needed to get through the tests– â€Å"Are you meditating?† I opened my eyes, astonished at the voice. â€Å"Mom? What are you doing here?† My mother, Janine Hathaway, stood in front of me. She was just a few inches shorter than me but had enough fight in her for someone twice my size. The dangerous look on her tanned face dared anyone to bring on a challenge. She gave me a wry smile and put one hand on her hip. â€Å"Did you honestly think I wouldn't come to watch you?† â€Å"I don't know,† I admitted, feeling kind of guilty for doubting her. She and I hadn't had much contact over the years, and it was only recent events–most of them bad–that had begun to reestablish our connection. Most of the time, I still didn't know how to feel about her. I oscillated between a little girl's need for her absent mother and a teenager's resentment over abandonment. I also wasn't entirely sure if I'd forgiven her for the time she â€Å"accidentally† punched me in a mock fight. â€Å"I figured you'd have, you know, more important things to do.† â€Å"There's no way I could miss this.† She inclined her head toward the stands, making her auburn curls sway. â€Å"Neither could your father.† â€Å"What?† I hurried toward the doorway and peered out onto the fields. My view of the stands wasn't fantastic, thanks to all the obstacles on the field, but it was good enough. There he was: Abe Mazur. He was easy to spot, with his black beard and mustache, as well as the emerald green scarf knotted over his dress shirt. I could even barely make out the glint of his gold earring. He had to be melting in this heat, but I figured it would take more than a little sweat for him to tame down his flashy fashion sense. If my relationship with my mother was sketchy, my relationship with my father was practically nonexistent. I'd met him back in May, and even then, it wasn't until after I'd gotten back that I found out I was his daughter. All dhampirs had one Moroi parent, and he was mine. I still wasn't sure how I felt about him. Most of his background remained a mystery, but there were plenty of rumors that he was involved with illegal business. People also acted like he was the kneecap-breaking type, and though I'd seen little evidence of this, I didn't find it surprising. In Russia, they called him Zmey: the serpent. While I stared at him in astonishment, my mom strolled over to my side. â€Å"He'll be happy you made it in time,† she said. â€Å"He's running some big wager on whether you'd show. He put his money on you, if that makes you feel any better.† I groaned. â€Å"Of course. Of course he'd be the bookie behind the pool. I should have known as soon as–† My jaw dropped. â€Å"Is he talking to Adrian?† Yup. Sitting beside Abe was Adrian Ivashkov–my more-or-less boyfriend. Adrian was a royal Moroi–and another spirit user like Lissa. He'd been crazy about me (and often just crazy) ever since we first met, but I'd had eyes only for Dimitri. After the failure in Russia, I'd returned and promised to give Adrian a shot. To my surprise, things had been†¦ good between us. Great, even. He'd written me up a proposal of why dating him was a sound decision. It had included things like â€Å"I'll give up cigarettes unless I really, really need one† and â€Å"I'll unleash romantic surprises every week, such as: an impromptu picnic, roses, or a trip to Paris–but not actually any of those things because now they're not surprises.† Being with him wasn't like it had been with Dimitri, but then, I supposed, no two relationships could ever be exactly alike. They were different men, after all. I still woke up all the time, aching over the loss of Dimitri and our love. I tormented myself over my failure to kill him in Siberia and free him from his undead state. Still, that despair didn't mean my romantic life was over–something it had taken me a while to accept. Moving on was hard, but Adrian did make me happy. And for now, that was enough. But that didn't necessarily mean I wanted him cozying up to my pirate mobster father either. â€Å"He's a bad influence!† I protested. My mother snorted. â€Å"I doubt Adrian will influence Abe that much.† â€Å"Not Adrian! Abe. Adrian's trying to be on good behavior. Abe will mess everything up.† Along with smoking, Adrian had sworn he'd quit drinking and other vices in his dating proposal. I squinted at him and Abe across the crowded stands, trying to figure out what topic could be so interesting. â€Å"What are they talking about?† â€Å"I think that's the least of your problems right now.† Janine Hathaway was nothing if not practical. â€Å"Worry less about them and more about that field.† â€Å"Do you think they're talking about me?† â€Å"Rose!† My mother gave me a light punch on the arm, and I dragged my eyes back to her. â€Å"You have to take this seriously. Keep calm, and don't get distracted.† Her words were so like what I'd imagined Dimitri saying that a small smile crept onto my face. I wasn't alone out here after all. â€Å"What's so funny?† she asked warily. â€Å"Nothing,† I said, giving her a hug. She was stiff at first and then relaxed, actually hugging me back briefly before stepping away. â€Å"I'm glad you're here.† My mother wasn't the overly affectionate type, and I'd caught her off guard. â€Å"Well,† she said, obviously flustered, â€Å"I told you I wouldn't miss this.† I glanced back at the stands. â€Å"Abe, on the other hand, I'm not so sure of.† Or†¦ wait. An odd idea came to me. No, not so odd, actually. Shady or not, Abe had connections–ones extensive enough to slip a message to Victor Dashkov in prison. Abe had been the one to ask for info about Robert Doru, Victor's spirit-wielding brother, as a favor to me. When Victor had sent back the message saying he had no reason to help Abe with what he needed, I'd promptly written off my father's assistance and jumped to my prison-break idea. But now– â€Å"Rosemarie Hathaway!† It was Alberta who called me, her voice ringing loud and clear. It was like a trumpet, a call to battle. All thoughts of Abe and Adrian–and yes, even Dimitri–vanished from my mind. I think my mother wished me good luck, but the exact wording was lost on me as I strode toward Alberta and the field. Adrenaline surged through me. All my attention was now on what lay ahead: the test that would finally make me a guardian.

Examples of Legends in Literary Texts

Examples of Legends in Literary Texts A  legend is  a  narrative - often handed down from the past - that is used to explain an event, transmit a lesson, or simply entertain an audience. Though customarily told as true stories, legends often contain supernatural, bizarre, or highly improbable elements. Types of legends include folk legends and urban legends. Some of the worlds most famous legends survive as literary texts, such as Homers Odyssey and  Chrà ©tien de Troyes tales of King Arthur. Folktales and Legends Although folktales and legends are both important genres of orally told narrative, in many ways they are decidedly different. As folklorists use the term, folktales are fictional stories; that is, they are regarded as fictions by those who tell and listen to them...Legends, on the other hand, are true narratives;  that is, they are regarded by their tellers and listeners as recounting events that actually took place, although to say so is an oversimplification....Legends are historical accounts  (such as the account of Daniel Boones encounters with Indians); or they are sorts of news accounts (as with contemporary or urban legends in which, for example, it is asserted that a madman with a hook arm recently attacked parked teenagers somewhere nearby); or they are attempts to discuss human interactions with other worlds, whether in the present day or in the past...However, in the social contexts in which legends  are told, attitudes toward the veracity of any given narrative may differ; some people may accept its truth, others may deny it, still others may keep an open mind but not commit themselves. (Frank de Caro, Introduction to  An Anthology of American Folktales and Legends.  Routledge, 2015) How Have Legends Appeared in Literary Texts? One of the worlds most famous legends is the story of Icarus, the son of a craftsman in ancient Greece. Icarus and his father attempted to escape from an island by making wings out of feathers and wax. Against his fathers warning, Icarus flew too close to the sun. His wings melted, and he plunged into the sea. This story was immortalized in Breughels painting Landscape With the Fall of Icarus, which W. H. Auden wrote about in his poem Musee des Beaux Arts. In Breughels Icarus, for instance: how everything turns awayQuite leisurely from the disaster; the ploughman mayHave heard the splash, the forsaken cry,But for him it was not an important failure; the sun shoneAs it had to on the white legs disappearing into the greenWater, and the expensive delicate ship that must have seenSomething amazing, a boy falling out of the sky,Had somewhere to get to and sailed calmly on.(From Musee des Beaux Arts by W. H. Auden, 1938) As stories handed down from the past, legends are often revised by each subsequent generation. The first stories of King Arthur, for example, were recorded in Geoffrey of Monmouths Historia Regum Britanniae  (History of the Kings of Britain), which was written in the 12th century. More elaborate versions of these stories later appeared in the long poems of  Chrà ©tien de Troyes. By several hundred years later, the legend was so popular that it became the subject of parody in Mark Twains humorous 1889 novel  A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthurs Court.

Do You Need to Take Both the ACT and SAT

Do You Need to Take Both the ACT and SAT SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips As a high school student, I took both the SAT and the ACT. I’d been taking the SAT every couple of years since I was in middle school, so I planned to focus primarily on it. However, as a public school student in Colorado, I was required to take the ACT by my school. My scores on the two tests were relatively similar and I ended up submitting both. Taking both tests, whether because of school requirementsor personal preference, has become an increasingly common choice for students, especiallythose applying to top colleges. Though itisn’t necessary to take both the ACT and SAT, doing somight be the right plan for you. This guide will walk you through the pro and cons of taking both tests. Key Fact: Schools Only Require the ACT or the SAT,Not Both No school will require you to submit scores from both tests, so you definitely don’t need to take both the ACT and the SAT. Keep in mindthat, regardless of what you might have heard to the contrary, all schools accept both the ACT and the SAT. Though in the past selective colleges on the coasts generally preferred the SAT, this hasn't been the case for decades. I would say that for most students it’s not worth the time investment to prepare for both tests,but read on for all the information you need to make the best decisionfor yourself. 4 Reasons You Might Want to Take Both Tests There are four potential benefits to taking both the ACT and the SAT: you'll have an extra chance to excel, prepping for one can help you do better on the other, some schools might appreciate seeing both scores, and you'll get more test dates to choose from. #1: You'll Have More Opportunities to Do Well The most common reason students take both the ACT and the SATis in case they can score much better on one than the other. The majority of students will score similarly on both tests,but it can be tricky to determine whether you're one of the exceptions without trying both tests. Nonetheless, there are some general patterns to which students prefer which tests. Students who have a strong affinity for the ACT generally: Aren't stressed by time pressures Excel at skimming passages for information Enjoyscience, or at least aren't intimidated by it Are comfortable with geometryand trigonometry Students who prefer the SAT, on the other hand, usually: Aren't confused by complicated question phrasings Can do basic calculations by hand Can easilyexplain the logic behind their answers One benefit of this approach is that if you do score much higher on either the ACT or the SAT, you can always choose to send only the scores fromthetest you did better on- even if a school doesn't use SAT/ACT Score Choice. #2: The Tests Are Similar, so Preparing for One Will Help You on the Other The SAT redesign madethe two tests more similar than ever. Because there's a lot of overlap between content and strategies for the ACT and the SAT,prepping for one willhelp you on the other as well. For example, studying for the ACT Science section will help you hone graph-reading skills that will come in handy on the SAT's quantitative reasoning and data representation questions. On the other hand, reviewing the grammar rules you need for SAT Writing will be equally good preparation for ACT English. However, if you do plan to prepare for both, be sure to start studying well ahead of when you want to be done with testing.You'll need to spend some extra time learning about whichever test you decide to take second. #3: Taking Both Tests Can Provide Extra Information for Schools As I mentioned above, most students who take both tests are applying to more selective schools, which sometimes appreciate the extra information. Doing extremely well on both tests is slightly more impressive than doing equallywell on just one. Janet Rapelye, Princeton's dean of admissions, told the New York Times that submitting both tests isn't necessary but can be helpful: "For us, more information is always better. If students choose one or the other, that’s fine, because both tests have value. But if they submit both, that generally gives us a little more information." Though the tests are very similar, and treated the same by admissions committees, they do test slightly different ideas and concepts. Taking both gives schools the fullest sense of your capabilities; however, keep in mind that any advantage submitting both tests gives you will be relatively minor. #4: You'll Get More Test Dates to Choose From The SAT and ACT are each offered seven times a year but on different dates. Thus, by taking both tests,you'll essentially get double the number of test dates to choose from. This can be helpful if you're worried about finding time to take a test and have a pretty stringent schedule at certain times of year. For example, if you're super busy in the winter and would rather take a test in the spring or early summer, this gives you three SAT dates (March, May, and June) plustwo ACT dates (April and June) to choose from. 2 Reasons TakingBoth TestsMight Not Be Worth It While there are some potential upsides to taking both the SAT and the ACT, there are also some pretty significant drawbacks. #1: You'll Need More Prep Time If you want to prep for both the ACT and the SAT, you’ll have to spend a fair amount of extra time preparing. Even with the overlap between the tests, you’ll need to take a few practice tests for the second test you focus on, and take the time to make sure you fully understand the differences between the two tests. This will amount to roughly 10-20 hours of extra test prep. These hours might be better spent pursuing an activity you're excited about or working on your college essay. #2: Trying to Do Both Can Be Overwhelming and Confusing The tests are similar, but not the same. As such, trying to prepare for both can end up being very overwhelming if you're the type of person who has trouble juggling a lot of different ideas at once. Ultimately, for some students,trying to studyfor both the ACT and the SATcan lead to lower scores than focusing on just one test would. How to Choose Betweenthe SAT and the ACT: 4 Factors If you do settleon taking just one of the tests, there are four factors you'll want toconsider when deciding between them. #1: Do You Have a Particular Affinity for the SATor the ACT? As I mentioned above, most students score similarly on both tests, but some find one significantly easier than the other. In additionto the brief guidelines I've laid out in this post, you can use this guide to determine whether you’re likely to have strong preference for the ACT or the SAT. You might also try taking a practice test of each and comparing your scores- this approachis more accuratebut also more of a time commitment. #2: Are You Required to Take One of the Tests at School? Roughly half of the states in the US will require all public school juniors to take either the ACT or the SAT. If your school requires you to take one of them, you might benefit from focusing on the required test. What's more, your school might offer free or discounted test-prep resources, ultimately making you more familiar with just one of the two tests. #3: Does One Test Better Suit Your Strengths? Though the SAT and ACT have a lot in common these days, they still have a few big differences that you can use to determine which test might be a better fit for your particular strengths. Some of the biggest differences between the two tests are as follows: Science Section? % Geometry Qs on Math Section Avg Time per Question No-Calculator Section? Math Formulas Chart? Grid-in Math Qs? SAT No 10% 1 minute Yes Yes Yes ACT Yes 35-45% 1 minute No No No As you can see, if you're not too good at geometry and need more time per question, the SAT will likely be a better fit for your skills. On the other hand, if you hate doing math without a calculator but love science, the ACT might work better for you. Look atwhat's on each test and then decide whether one might be a better fit for you.And don't just think about your strengths- consider your weaknesses, too. For example, if you're not good at grid-in math questions, you might have a better shot at getting a high Math score on the ACT than you would on the SAT. #4: Which Test Offers More Convenient Test Dates? The last big factor to consider is which test offers more convenient test dates that work with your schedule. As I mentioned above, both the SAT and ACT are administered seven times a year (excluding school-day testing); however, these test dates are not the same. The chart below shows what months the SAT and ACT are administered each school year: Testing Month SAT ACT August X September X October X X November X December X X January February X March X April X May X June X X July X As the chart indicates, some months offer both the SAT and ACT while others only offer one or the other (note that January is the only month that offers neither test). Ultimately, it's important toconsider whichtest can give you more flexibility and fits better with your schedule. For example, if you have the whole summer to study, you might want to take the SAT since it offers an August test date. Or, if you have winter to study and want to get the test over with before spring activities start, the February ACT might be an ideal fit. Still Want to Take Both the ACT and SAT? 3 Tips If, after lots of consideration, you still want to take both the ACT and SAT, you'll need to know how to prepare accordingly so that you don't get overwhelmed or make any mistakes on test day. Here are our top three tips for keeping your brain in check as you prep for the SAT and ACT. #1: Focus on One Test at a Time The most important point is to focus on one test at a time in your prep. This means you shouldn't take both tests in the same month or even in back-to-back months, as doing this can confuse and overwhelm you. Ideally, you'll take one test and then the other at least three months later.We typically advise prepping for at least three to six months before the SAT/ACT, so giving yourself this amount of time in-between test dates should allow you to take one test and then completely transition your mindset to prepping for the other. Taking both the ACT and SAT around the same time might sound like a smart idea, but in the end all it's going to do is mix up information in your head and exhaust you. So take our advice and spread out your dates! #2: Use Resources Specific to Your Test While some resources can work for both the SAT and ACT, most target just one of the two tests. As a result, don't try to use SAT resources for your ACT prep, or ACT resources for your SAT prep. Doingthis will ultimately end up confusing you, and you'll learn the wrong strategies and content. Instead, separate your resources into two piles: one for the SAT, and one for the ACT. For tips on what prep books to use for the SAT and ACT, check out our individual guides. The only high-quality resource I recommend using for both tests isKhan Academy. This free website has partnered with the College Board to offer tons of video tutorials and official SAT practice questions. While it doesn't specifically cater to the ACT, it's got a lot of helpful strategies and explanations for math, reading, and writingthat you can apply to your ACT prep as well. #3: Come Up With Separate Study Plans Lastly, you'll need to spend some time coming up with two separate study plans for the SAT and ACT. Even if you plan to give yourself the same amount of time to study for both tests (say, four months for each test), how you spend that time will likely vary slightly depending on which test you're taking. The main reason for this is the content differences on the tests. Remember, the ACT has a whole section the SAT doesn't have- Science! That fact alone should be reason enough to come up with a different study schedule. Another reason is your own goals. What score are you aiming for on the SAT? The ACT? Where are you currently scoring on each test? Once you've answered these questions, you can begin to figure out how to structure and customize your study schedules. For tips on how to build the best SAT or ACT study plan for you, take a look at our guides. What's Next? When studying for the ACT or SAT, it's helpful to have a specific goal in mind.Learn how to determine what a great score for you will be on the SAT or the ACT. If you have more questions about the redesigned 2016 SAT,check out our full breakdown of the test. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? Check out our best-in-class online SAT and ACT prep classes. We guarantee your money back if you don't improve your SAT score by 160+ points or your ACT score by 4+ points. Our classes are entirely online, and they're taught by experts. If you liked this article, you'll love our classes. Along with expert-led classes, you'll get personalized homework with thousands of practice problems organized by individual skills so you learn most effectively. We'll also give you a step-by-step, custom program to follow so you'll never be confused about what to study next. Try it risk-free today:

Philosophical Thought Thesis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Philosophical Thought - Thesis Example While explaining my position, discussion will be made with regard to the themes from the different topics, and what their pros and cons are. The saint could be taken as the path for the more spiritual approach towards life and existence. The saint is beholden by the moral and ethical laws by God, or what is divine and ideal, taking steps and journeys in doing and sharing their beliefs for the betterment of others in a world that has been in constant bouts of chaos and other evils. For the saint, God’s existence may be a necessary condition for securing a meaningful life, but it is generally thought that one must additionally relate to God in some relevant way in the epistemological and axiological dimensions (Seachris, â€Å"Meaning of Life: The Analytic Perspective†). Saints can be characterized with many traits that are in relation to the central quality of godliness, such as being humble, kind, generous, compassionate, and selflessness. The hero archetype could be ta ken as a different approach to an individual’s value of existence and life. The first impression of a hero is an individual who is strong and fearless regardless of the odds. The hero archetype usually is the individual who adheres to the rightness of freedom, doing what is noble and just according to their personal beliefs. The hero typology has been portrayed in various ways, either through mythology or romanticism. Typically, the hero is characterized by traits of being free-spirited, courageous, strong-hearted, and a lover of life. Both could be viewed as distinct, but they complement each other very well, both of them having a distinct path for an individual’s walk in existence. This could be seen even in the earliest and twilight days in the age of antiquity. Greek mythology portrays a lot of notable heroes in their stories and legends. The most notable would be that of Hercules, or Heracles in other writings. Hercules may have been portrayed as a son of Zeus, th e king among all the other Greek deities, but he is still a demi-god because he was born from a mortal woman. As legend tells, Hercules had to undergo the Twelve Labors meant for him as an act of redemption of murdering his wife and daughter due to his insanity. While doing all this out of personal reasons, Hercules did assist many of his fellow men, and even deities through his journeys and trials. For the Greeks, Hercules was considered a hero figure because he showed indomitable will and power to persevere in his tasks. The Greek mythological-poetic drama usually portrayed heroes as individuals overwhelmed by their feelings of doing what they see fit. On the other hand, the philosophy of Stoicism had a more different opinion with regard to how one would live. The Stoic philosophy follows a more ascetic role in life. The Stoics believe that once we come to know what we and the world around us are really like, and especially the nature of value, we will be utterly transformed (Balt zly, â€Å"Stoicism†). The Stoics have always strived for temperance and the discipline of self-control from one’s emotions or passions in whatever they commit themselves to. Temperance leads to a mind and soul that has achieved tranquility or harmony with nature, which is the ultimate goal of the Stoics. This appealed well to what the Romans regarded as heroes among their citizenship, such as soldiers, leaders, and

Reflection on the Development and Application of a Fundamental Nursing Essay

Reflection on the Development and Application of a Fundamental Nursing Skill in Nursing Practice - Essay Example This is why it is very essential for nurses to be able to carry out an analysis and clearly respond to these new challenges that keep arising in a very proactive way. As such, development of critical reflective and thinking skills does assist nurses in meeting the ever emerging challenges related to giving needed care in context of a dynamic and rapid change of environment so as to develop into a critically reflective nursing practitioner. There are different approaches to critical thinking and reflective practices. My model for this paper is the Gibb’s Reflective cycle. This paper focuses on a patient with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy; he suffers from epilepsy and also scoliosis. Cerebral palsy is a condition whereby there is a brain damage disrupting normal functioning of the body muscles. Spastic quadriplegia is one of the nine forms of cerebral palsy and which is quite common (Banta, 2003, pp.2-18). It disables and a very serious form of cerebral palsy compared to o thers because it affects the whole body. It causes muscle stiffness or paralysis of all the four quadrants of the body. Such patients cannot walk and have impaired speech functions (Rucker, 1985, pp.206-207). Their necks are floppy due to lack of control and are prone to constant seizures. Epilepsy on the other hand is still a brain disorder that causes repeated seizures which occur as a result of episodes of disturbance to the brain. While Scoliosis is the curving of the spine away from the middle hence goes sideways (Burtner, et al., 1999, pp.748-57). During my recent nursing placement, I undertook a five week program at a learning disability care home situated on the northwest of England. It was quite an experience and worked as an eye opener in my nursing career. At the time of my placement and throughout the period, I happened to observe and took part in a program aimed at feeding the residents within the learning disability care home. In this program, I focused mainly on a res ident called James (real name withheld for patient confidentiality reasons). This patient has a medical history of spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy; he suffers from epilepsy and also scoliosis. As a result of his health condition, James has developed dysphagia, which is a swallowing difficulty and for that reason he has to eat and drink in a way that does not harm him since he has no control of the process and relies on nursing help. About the Gibb’s Reflective Cycle I learnt about the Gibb’s reflective cycle during my nursing study practice. The cycle involves various stages starting with stage one which involves the description of a given event under study. Here, I have to describe in clear detail the kind of event under reflection. This stage includes details such as the place, whoever was there, the reason as to why I was there, what I was doing, the kind of context the event had, the happenings, my part that I played in the event, and others including the resul ts (Stephenson, 1993, pp.1-18). Stage 2 is about how I felt. Here, I try recalling the things that did go on inside my mind and try explaining why this event stuck in my mind. This could entail how I felt before the event took place, what I was thinking at that time, how the event made me feel, how others made me feel, and my take on the outcome, among others. The 3rd stage has more to do with the evaluation process where I try to make a personal judgment of what took place regarding what I felt was good or bad about my experience. This leads to the 4th stage in which case I try to carry out an analysis of the event.

Changing Role of Women Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Changing Role of Women - Essay Example While this new role of women is determined, it is also essential that such an investigative study incorporates the changed role of women in various sectors, sections, and nations. Therefore, the efforts to define the new role of women in the modern world should essentially include a research on the changing role of women in every sector and category of social life. This has been the central consideration for the selection of research articles for this anthology. As the title of this anthology suggests, this needs to be perceived as an attempt to define the changing role of women in the background of sex inequalities and gender role differences which has been a major research point of the feminist theorists in the modern world. It is indisputable that one of the most relevant topics in the modern feminist theory relating to the general theme of gender role and sex inequality has been the changing role of women. Therefore, this anthology endeavors to provide with the most accurate mate rials to conclude on the changing role of women in various sections and categories of modern life. Here, this Anthology by the title "Changing Role of Women" covers a broad span of articles which are related to the topic-changing role of women through several categories of modern women of various backgrounds. ... He in the article "From Emancipation to Liberation: The Changing role of Women in Turkey's Public Realm" which has been the first essay of the anthology, deals with the changed role of women in the public sector of Turkey. According to the article, the change of women in Turkey can be related to a change from emancipation to liberation, i.e. the change has been one of the attitudes mainly. This article introduces the history of the liberation of women in The Republic of Turkey. The article "introduces the historical context of women's emancipation in the Republic of Turkey and then discusses how different women's groups expanded, transformed or perpetuated the parameters of the public realm with their different, at times seemingly contradictory, discourses for liberation. The focus of this article is on issues and concerns around which women voiced their differences from the founding fathers who 'emancipated women,' and not on politics in formal political institutions, such as politi cal parties or parliament." ("From Emancipation to Liberation: The Changing Role of Women in Turkey's Public Realm" 107). The republican concept of secularism and nationalism strengthened the feminists of Turkey. In the society, women were provided with a new public space and their gender role was redefined. By taking effort to enforce the women's status, the state actually meant to cultivate nationalistic feeling in the minds of its citizens. Gender equality and gender rights were equal and the professionalism of women was supported by the government but they demanded for more rights especially the control upon their sexuality. The feminists were not satisfied those limited rights and tried to enter the male dominated politics and they started to express their

Incident for Aids Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Incident for Aids - Case Study Example However, the scope ought to be widened to include other men from other races and social classes. The level of diversity among the minority groups such as the Hispanics presented a major challenge for the agency, as it could not replicate the initiatives that had been successful with the original group. This was a dire phenomenon because the epidemic was rising among gay and bisexual males from these minority groups. For instance, the level of acculturation to the American ways has a huge impact on how a man would face the stigma associated with AIDS and homosexuality. Therefore, there was need to develop different sensitive programs that would target the different groups such as the youth, recent migrants and the acculturated. Consensus building entails seeking the consent of all participants in a situation where there were differences in opinion. In formulating a Latino-oriented program, the agency consulted an expert who proposed six barriers for adoption of safer behaviour. The barriers were reduced to four after lengthy discussions, but the agency representatives still hold different opinions about the number that should be used. In order to develop consensus I would appeal to the representatives to focus on the common interest and not their agencies’ position. In this case, the common interest will be identification of the major possible barriers. The focus group must incorporate members from all the segments of the target group. Since there are many members, it is imperative that the stakeholders command respect from the other members, who must exhibit their confidence in them. It is important to select people who have a similar perception of the issues and not those who will undermine each other. A focus group should work towards creating a lasting solution for the issues. Therefore, they should provide this information: what they have learnt from other segments; what each group should do to achieve the goals; and

Commpensation and Benefits Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Commpensation and Benefits - Essay Example Employees should be allowed to join unions while a security of tenure should be provided to all full-time employees. Proposed compensation and benefits of Wal-Mart Introduction Wal-Mart is one of the organizations among the largest employers in North America. Wal-Mart business operations have increased rapidly compared with similar organizations. Although Wal-Mart offers its employees with various benefits and compensations like â€Å"health plan benefits†, â€Å"profit sharing plans† and â€Å" stock purchase plan†, there are certain challenges facing the organization since compensation procedures have not addressed the numerous employee complains (Wal-Mart Watch, 2007). A recent case happened in Oklahoma in 2007 when employees complained of compensation policies that included â€Å"cutting hours† and not hiring the employees in designations where they have proved competent and skilled (Wal-Mart Watch, 2007). The employees also complained that a number of them had been fired without any apparent reason. The above reasons are just some of the challenges which Wal-Mart employees. The employees are currently unsatisfied thus lowering their work productivity in the organization. The management should establish compensation and benefit policies that maximize employee productivity and motivation in the organization (Wall Mart, 2008). ... Wal-Mart contributes 2 percent of all eligible Associate’s annual salary or wages to the 401 (k) Plan after a one year waiting periods. Wal-Mart also contributes about 2 percent of each eligible Associate’s wages to the profit sharing plan provided they have worked in the company for at least 12 months. In the stock purchase plan, the company contributes only 15 cents for each dollar of the company stock purchased by the employees through deductions in the payroll up to $ 1,800 of stock purchases in each plan year (Wall Mart, 2008). Wal-Mart compensation and benefits policies are inadequate since the company has engaged in â€Å"cutting hours† and employees are not hired in designations where they are talented. The company has also fired numerous employees without any apparent reason and explanation. Employee work motivation and productivity has declined thus leading to poor job performance and total productivity of the organization. Wal-Mart Stores Inc which is the largest private employer in North America has been accused of scaling down the health benefits offered to part-time employees and increasing the premiums deducted from most of the full-time employees’ salaries. Wal-Mart has engaged in cost cutting measures to offset the slowdown in consumer spending which has affected the company revenues in the last few years (Wal-Mart Watch, 2007). The company has reversed the eligibility of part-time workers by requiring them to cover their children healthcare and reduced the co-payments for prescription drugs. Wal-Mart has denied most of its employees from working full-time thus reducing the health care benefits to the employees. The company has also been accused of discriminative working policies against women and employees from minority