Ask Not What Your Country Can Do for You… Essay

As a president of a biggest country of the world, we can see that our president is skillful speaker. He is the one of greatest american speakers. One of his famous speech is † Ask not what your country can do for you† when he is in his inaugural address. President Kennedy have used many of the tools in rhetorical or presuasive writing. He has full knowleged with Aristotle three areas of rhetorical such as: Ethos, Pathos and Logos. JFK also uses repetition to persuade the American people. He begins several sections in the middle of his speech with the same phrase, â€Å"Let both sides. . .† then uses very strong verbs to call the public to action such as â€Å"explore,† â€Å"formulate,† â€Å"seek,† and â€Å"unite.† Kennedy also uses the literary tool, the metaphor, â€Å"The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it. And the glow from that fire can truly light the world.† We cannot literally light the world on fire, but he means that we can influence the world as an incendiary nation. Perhaps the most famous sentence is immediately following that metaphor. It is a sentence, that was delivered with great enthusiasm, as illustrated by the fervor behind JFK’s delivery, â€Å"And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.(americanrhetoric.com)† This play on words is one of the most remembered phrases of all time. Why? Because JFK delivers it with rhythm and charisma.

Early Childhood Curriculum Essay

One of the goals of preschool education is to improve children’s school success. Early childhood educators need to enhance a child’s developmental skills and knowledge. We are to build upon their ever growing need of curiosity and creativity. Without knowing what, why, and how to developmentally teach preschool children in an early childhood environment teachers will not have a great impact on the knowledge children will gain and retain in this environment. Children are eager to learn and acquire new life changing skills. The text (2008) emphasizes the importance of a child-centered curriculum that encompasses the whole child- physical, social, emotional, creative, and cognitive. Teachers practical knowledge of how and what to teach children is not taught in school. Teachers receive and understand the theoretical knowledge of children learning but they are unable to blend the theories with practical applications appropriate for young children. There are many preschool classrooms with qualified teachers but they do not understand the steps needed to provide a curriculum that is age and developmentally appropriate. Most teachers have the book knowledge but their hands on and one on one skills are lacking when it comes to implementing activities to stimulate and excite children in learning. Kostelnik states that, â€Å"Teachers who lack adequate knowledge in any of these areas are hampered in their attempts to create developmentally appropriate programs for young children. The areas are: the fundamental components of early literacy and numeracy; how children experience literacy and mathematical concepts in their play; what teachers can do intentionally to support literacy and numeracy in all areas of the curriculum throughout the day†. Teachers must know and understand a child’s developmental needs and how to develop ways to meet these needs. Early childhood education recommends that programs utilize Developmentally Appropriate Practices. It is vital that young children have a curriculum that provides learning goals and guidance for teachers to develop activities and interactions. The National Association for the Education of Young Children approved the Early Childhood Standards and Accreditation Performance Standards and Accreditation Performance Criteria in 2005. These standards guide programs in a variety of areas including the curriculum (pp.232-233). †¢ Children have varied opportunities to be read books and to be read to in individualized ways. †¢ Children have activities that allow them to become familiar with print. †¢ Children are given opportunities to recognize and write letters, words, and sentences as they are ready. †¢ Books are displayed and writing is encouraged in one or more areas of the classroom. Curriculum development should focus on promoting learning and development in the areas of social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive growth (NAEYC Program Standards). There should be themes that are hands on and developmentally appropriate. Activities should include: art, math, science, social, studies, reading, and creativity. Classroom s should be filled with laughter and excitement. Hands on learning should take place, stories should be told, and play encouraged. Play is child’s work and when they enjoy what they are doing, then, they are more apt to learn, discover, and investigate their surroundings and environment. So how do we know that play is child’s work? This question and many more are answered when we look at research and theories of education. Theories are the foundation for which teachers choose to teach from. Theories help guide teachers in understanding the reason why they set up their classrooms and for carrying out the lessons they teach children on a daily basis. Theories teach us that relationships are the foundation for learning. We need to have relationship with the children we teach and with families of the children we provide a program for. Theories teach us that children learn through play and that they learn when they interact with their peers and their environment. There are many theories of learning to use to decide what type of curricula to use  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ Vygotsky’s Constructivist theory- puts the learner in the center and believes that teachers should provide experiences that link prior knowledge to what they are studying. The constructivist teacher organizes the classroom with children’s stages of development in mind. Children learn when they collaborate with others, discussion and talking about the how and why of things. †¢ Piaget’s Four Stages of Cognitive Development- learning is viewed as active, constructive process in which students seek organization and meaning in their worlds. †¢ Abraham Maslow focused on human potential and proposed that all persons strive to reach the highest within them. His theory also asserts that children learn best when their physical needs are met and they feel a sense of psychological safety and security. †¢ B. F. Skinner Behaviorist Theory emphasizes the roles of environmental conditions and overt behaviors in learning. Children learn through the effects of their own intentional responses. Consequences will determine whether a person will repeat a particular behavior that led to the consequences. Our theorists teach us that as children play they are learning about themselves, other people, and the world. As the text (2008) states, learning and development in the early years are critical to the child’s long term well-being. This theoretical base in early childhood education guides and provides a framework of understanding for how children learn. The text also states that, theoretically, there is widespread acceptance of the idea that play is important- that it is the serious business for the young child. Elkind reviewed a variety of theories that support the role of children’s play, including Montessori, Freud, Piaget, and Vygotsky. By taking these theories and putting them into perspective we provide ways to meet the differences and developing needs that children have. For children to excel and have success in school we have to address all areas of their development. Research has shown us that it is during these times of play that a child’s brain is affected. Connections are made as a child repeatedly does the same types of activities. If these connections are not made or used they will eventually disappear. Our text (2008) states that, â€Å"Play is a time where children needs are met. Good play experiences unite and blend all aspects of development, reaping social, emotional, physical, intellectual, moral, creative, and cultural benefits for young children. † As children engage in play in the early childhood classroom they are learning and growing developmentally. Age appropriate activities are provided for them. Vanderwater says that, â€Å"Play is simply shorthand for our capacity for curiosity, imagination, and fantasy — our creative dispositions. † In order for children benefit from play a curriculum is needed to meet their needs. It is important for young preschool children to have a curriculum that includes planned environments and activities in the classroom, such as music and creative movement, dramatic play, singing, and creative art. Planned and unplanned spontaneous learning should take place everyday. We know that children are unique and different therefore they all learn differently. With this knowledge we have to teach the whole child. This includes teaching social-emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development to preschoolers. Preschool curriculum models vary widely. Some may detail exactly what to teach and how to teach it with step by step instructions. Others on the other hand leave room for teacher ideas and input. Then there are some that provide guidance in developing activities and interactions that are crucial to social development. When choosing curricula, programs need to take into account children’s ages, needs, behavior, language and cultural backgrounds. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the National Association of Early Childhood Specialist in State Departments of Education (NAECS/SDE) therefore advise the following: â€Å"Curriculum is more than a collection of enjoyable activities. Curriculum is a complex idea containing multiple components such as goals, content, pedagogy, or instructional practices. Curriculum is influenced by many factors including society’s values, content standards, account ability systems, research findings, community expectations, culture and language, and individual children’s characteristics. † The early childhood (preschool) classroom has a need for a developmentally appropriate curriculum. Designing a curriculum gives teachers the opportunity to come together and brainstorm on what is needed to meet the needs of individual children. Dodge states, â€Å"When teachers build curriculum with each other and with the children and are willing to really listen to each other and to the children’s ideas, and really value them, there is a very different kind of relationship being established and a climate of mutual trust is formed. She also shares that, the nature of this relationship between teachers and children and parents would be very different in our opinion, if the teacher’s plan were already written and all the planning spaces filled in, and all the outcomes predetermined and articulated ahead of time. Relationships again are the foundation that is needed in the early childhood classroom. Society has put a lot of pressure on early childhood programs to produce results. Kostelnik states that, kindergarten teachers report that one out of three children begin formal schooling lacking the basic experiences they need to succeed. Because of this, programs make decisions each day about the type of curriculum to use. They see the importance of early learning experiences that will build a firm foundation for learning and development later on in life. There are many types of curriculum in our society today. The two most commonly used in the Unites States according to Dodge are: The Creative Curriculum and High/Scope. In addition to these many directors used a variety of models and resources to supplement their planning. These include the Project Approach, Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and what several called â€Å"emergent curriculum†. There is evidence that high quality early childhood programs can and do make a difference in children’s development. Children can develop the skills they need as they participate in child care and other early learning programs from birth to age eight. Kostelnik states that children need to know the fundamental components of early literacy and numeracy for literacy involves listening, viewing, speaking, writing, and reading. Some of the numeracy components are: understanding number, how people represent number, the relations among numbers, and number systems, using mathematical tools, and recognizing, describing, and extending patterns. Literacy and numeracy can be displayed in the classroom when the dramatic play area has been transformed into a hairdressing shop. The children can create signs that say haircuts, shampoo, curlers, and perms. The children can also include prices on the signs. The children can move in and out of this area taking turns as customers, receptionist, haircutters, and cashiers. They will pretend cutting hair, giving permanents, making appointments, writing out receipts, using the play cash register, and making change. Literacy and numeracy is also seen in the block center as children make signs and count trucks, in the writing center as children write in their journals and in the art center as children draw and create pictures of their choice. Kostelnik tells us that, skilled teachers intentionally create opportunities for children to become engaged in varied literacy and numeracy experiences every day. Developmentally appropriate activities do not happen by chance, they have to be planned out. Children are looking for direction and opportunities to investigate. Teachers are being provided with training and professional development on how to teach, what to teach and why they need to follow a curriculum. As teachers gain the skills they need they begin to understand the developmental need s of children. They create opportunities for learning through play and they advocate for the needed changes in the system. As curriculum choices are being made and teachers are trained in how to implement the curriculum children are excelling. In an early childhood classroom teachers are better equipped and have a greater impact on what, why and how to teach children in a developmentally appropriate way. References: Eliason, C. F. , Jenkins, L. (2008). A Practical Guide to Early Childhood Curriculum (8th ed. ). New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc. Dodge, D. (2004). Early Childhood Curriculum Models Why, What and the How Programs Use Them. Retrieved from the Exchange magazine. www. ChildCareExchange. com Kostelnik. M (2008). Academics in Early Childhood. Retrieved from the Exchange magazine. www. ChildCareExchange. com. National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the National Association of Early Childhood Specialists in State Departments of Education (NAECS/SDE). (2003). Joint position statement on early childhood curriculum, assessment, and program evaluation building an effective, accountable system in programs for children birth through age 8. Washington, DC: NAEYC, p. 6 Vanderwater, E. A. , Rideoout, V. J. , Wartella, E. A. , Huang, X. , Lee, J. H. , Shim, M. S. (2007). â€Å"Digital Childhood: Electronic Media and Technology Use Among Infants, Toddlers and Preschoolers. † Pediatrics 119(5): e1006-e1015 [pic].

Wireless Networks: Free Wireless Access

The availability of free wireless access in local communities with the use of web sites that allows searches for accessibility of wires networks all over the country is the scope of this paper. The paper also provides background information about the experience of having to browse the internet with the use of free wireless access.The paper arrives at a conclusion with a commentary on the issues concerning the movement persuading the government to provide free wireless access to everyone and its possible influences and outcomes, especially to the people and the business sector. It also provides a critical analysis about the notion behind free access, or not having to pay at all, for wireless network connections.Using the three search engines, Wi-Fi Free Spot, JiWire, and HotSpot Locations, the scope of free wireless access providers can be identified. In the United States alone, there are numerous areas, town, cities or states alike, where free wireless access is available.Business es tablishments, such as restaurants, coffee houses, gasoline stations, hotels, movie theaters, etc. provides free wireless access for their customers. Areas that are open to the public, such as public libraries, airports, bus stations, post offices, parks, hospitals, museums, schools and universities, some residential areas, and even beaches, also have free access to wireless networks.Browsing through the World Wide Web with the use of a free wireless network is fast and easy.   Unlike other business establishments who provide subscriptions or payments for the use of their wireless networks, the free wireless access requires no payment at all. Despite the fact that internet usage is free of charge, it also comes with high-speed internet connectivity that would satisfy the requirements of customers who access the internet in these areas.However, accessing the wireless network for free would bring you to electronic billboards packed with numerous advertisements promoting several produ cts and merchandises. Some establishments even advertise their own products over the World Wide Web. For instance, a coffee shop would advertise their most popular or newly launched products while their customer is browsing through the internet, by posting banner advertisements, pop-up windows etc.Well-known brand name producers of personal computers and input devices, mobile phones and personal digital assistants, and such even post banner advertisements to promote their products. I am guessing that these paid advertisements provide for the payment and maintenance of free wireless networks. However, I might be thinking incorrectly.There are numerous wireless operators providing wireless network services in all areas free of charge. The advent of wireless services access began as the use of wireless technologies such as laptops, personal digital assistants, pocket personal computers, and mobile phones has become widespread not just in the country but worldwide. This served as an opp ortunity for business corporations and establishments to gain a new breed of clients, in this case, internet users and clients.The United States government’s policy to provide free wireless access to all was organized by network managements, businessmen and online clients who would want to gain access to the World Wide Web anywhere they go without having to pay anything, and business proprietors alike who were aiming to draw customers to their establishments to help increase their profit.At first, wireless access was offered with due fees that was to be paid by the customer. The free wireless access was implemented right after, when people nationwide asked for free access to networks because of its positive outcomes and benefits.However, providing free wireless access to all harbors certain issues and concerns to the minds of the people. If wireless access is free, then who is paying for it? Business corporations and establishments who advertise through the internet contribut es to free wireless access, however, to base the complimentary access tow wireless networks on paid advertisements is improbable.As city governments over the country are starting to implement the free wireless access to all policy, some people have started second-guessing the concept of free access to wireless networks. Many people say that it is not at all free because the people pay for network access through the taxes they pay to the city government.This issue takes side with the people who do not at all use wireless networks to access the internet. As this is the case, they are obligated to pay for what they are not actually using. However, the benefits of free wireless access to all policy is undeniable, as it is not only available in business establishments but in public areas as well.For instance, providing free network access services in public libraries, educational institutions and universities, and parks, would be beneficial to the learning process of students and the ped agogical techniques of educators. It also organizes and systematizes the life of a community, as it makes communication and provision of services easier. For instance, addressing concerns to the city government is made easier by communicating through the World Wide Web.The other side of free wireless access influences the business sector. As they used to believe that providing free wireless access would allow them to invite people in purchasing their products, it has only done otherwise.To illustrate, coffee shops who provide free wireless access are packed with customers each day, however, it does not hold true that they really purchase products from them. Some people only go to these establishments for the relaxing environment and the free wireless access.ReferencesCisco. (2007). City Government Improves Service and Stimulates Local Economy. RetrievedDecember 6, 2007, from Cisco Systems, Inc. Website: http://www.cisco.com/en/US/netsol/ns621/networking_solutions_customer_profile090 0aecd804654bd.htmlHotSpot Locations: The Wireless Directory. (2007). Retrieved December 6, 2007, from Hotspot-Locations. Website: http://www.hotspot-locations.com/JiWire. (2007). Retrieved December 6, 2007, from JiWire, Inc. Website:http://www.jiwire.com/search-hotspot-locations.htmSeltzer, L. (2005). Wireless Access: The Next Great Municipal Crisis. Retrieved December 6,2007, from Ziff Davis Enterprise, Inc. Website: HotSpot Locations: The Wireless Directory. (2007). Retrieved December 6, 2007, from Hotspot-Locations. Website: http://www.hotspot-locations.com/Wi-Fi Free Spot: The Wi-Fi-Freespot Directory. (2007). Retrieved December 6, 2007, from Wi-Fi-Freespot Directory. Website: http://www.wififreespot.com/

4 P in marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

4 P in marketing - Essay Example Brand equity is assets that are linked to a brand's name and symbol that adds to the value provided by a product or service to a firm and the customers of that firm.Those assets are generally brand awareness, loyalty, association with the brand and perceived quality value. Brand Equity is the value in the product that is carried through arising out of consumers' choice of that product. Brand image and awareness contribute to the brand equity when consumers have strong belief about that brand and become associated with it as natural and friendly users. Cauvin. blogspot With a view to restore the confidence and trust of UK investors who faced great losses during last credit crisis on account of the sub prime lending and failure of Northern Rock Bank, DREAM HOME fund will been launched in UK for the portfolio of JP Morgan.The main feature of the fund is to invest fund money in govt backed securities and real estate funds in foreign real estate trusts in emerging markets to get security, trust, and good returns. The fund will be of medium duration and enable UK investors to finance their dream homes for their young children when they grow matured. DREAM HOME Investment will position itself in the market to exhibit its strength to park their funds in good and strong portfolio to make it derive good returns with security. The required security will be possible by investments in Municipal bond, other bonds, government securities, gilds. Tax exempt instruments will be preferred. With this view DREAM HOME investment will provide higher interest rate thanks to its investment in high yielding portfolio. Investment in Indian real estate industry, which is thriving now, will provide the image of higher return yielding funds. Sam Fleming, November 1,2007, Daily Mail, Credit crisis 'could cripple UK economy' www.governmentbusiness.co.uk /content/view/2069/1) visited 0n 17th Nov.09 In Money market funds, returns on investment are very important factor to judge the credibility of the fund. A good and successful money market fund can deliver returns of around 7% per month and around 30% on annual basis. An Australian dollar fund managed by UBS Global Asset Management firm returned 6.9% on month basis and 29.7% on annual basis. On the opposite the Santander's money market fund returned a low 0.27% monthly return in Sept 09. The fund will get the support from the strong brand equity of JP Morgan. To build up further brand equity the product safety and investment security will help. The promotion of the fund will be done through websites and search engine support. The existing channel of distribution will support in promoting the product to wide range UK market. The target market will be mainly those who have burnt their fingers in the last Northern Rock debacle but yet ready to have a home for their dear children. Trust Home will be positioned in that segment to ca sh their sentiment. Brand equity is not made in a day or two. A strong marketing plan ie the most essential for creating strong brand equity. Understanding the market, locating the unattended segment that is unsatisfied or require proper servicing not done before is a must. Attending the unsatisfied investors in UK who neither could nor fulfill their dream home because of high prices or foreclosure will get a new opportunity to do that. Next task important towards building the brand equity of dream Home is to provide a solid background and opportunity to get their dream homes financed at the right time which is not present now because of the deteriorating real estate market but later in future. At present many people have lost their money. They will be able to save for the dream home tomorrow. The Dream Home fund will finance the balance amount after say 10 years for the home for the children. A vital part of their sentiment to gift a home to their children at the most opportune time when the present

The art aspect of (Al-Rowshan) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The art aspect of (Al-Rowshan) - Essay Example An Al-Rowshan is an essential section of a building’s frontage hence, its designs is vital to the architecture of the property. Al-Rowshan styles have changed over the years to reflect transformations in structural designs, building and construction materials. The ancient Maltese Al-Rowshan is a wooden closed Al-Rowshan protruding from a wall. On the other hand, Juliet Al-Rowshans does not project out of the building. They are normally a section of the upper floor, thin in depth with a balustrade at the front alone2. Different kinds of Al-Rowshans have been applied in portraying the imaginary lovers’ scene and the popular ones at the Verona villa is not a Juliet Al-Rowshan in the actual design sense. French or double doors are surrounded by Juliet balconies and permit them to be opened inwards for high light and aeration, whereas protecting inhabitants from falling out. They are not viewed as actual balconies while effectively serving as restraint because they lack plat form to stand on. Nevertheless, Juliet balconies remain to be famous currently the way they used to be many years ago and are a very efficient means of adding an outdoor feel to an indoor space. External balconies were supported by corbels manufactured from successive courses of stonework, or by large stone/wooden brackets during the renaissance and medieval eras. Cast iron, reinforced concrete and other materials are used commonly to support balconies since the 19th century3. Al-Rowshan/balconies in Britain Juliet balconies in the UK date back to the late Georgian era when architects specified them to offer grand homes a prominent appearance. They were at first produced in ornamental styles of wrought iron, they were shallow, rectangular and spanned the thickness of drawing room windows on the property’s first floor. Cast iron railings were growing in fame by the early 19thC with style dictating addition of classical designs to substitute the led finials of the ancient times . Designs were seen widely across cities and towns like London, Cheltenham and Bath as they became more complex. The mass production and lower cost of cast iron in the Regency era led to its extensive use in highly decorative Juliet Al-Rowshans combining details like urns and acorns4. Numerous archetypal townhouses of the era had full length sash windows that could be opened fully with cast iron Juliet Al-Rowshans offering the essential protection. Ironwork went on to be applied for Victorian priorities with first-floor in front of the increasingly-popular French windows. Architects were led by the recognition of the advantages of natural light to seek new means of improving daylight in a home. Better glassmaking methods enabled the manufacture of larger, cheaper and stronger windows of glass with fewer glazing bars for use in French windows at the same time. This was a rumble period for Al-Rowshans5. The Victorian also took motivation from Europe to construct their exceptional vers ions of Juliet Al-Rowshans once more using ironwork to great ornamental effect. Balconies were took them to an entire new level by the Edwardians who increased their sizes to stretch across several window. They were used by larger houses to enjoy augmented outdoor space and balustrading was constructed from wrought iron or carved white wood. The shift to higher housing densities and augmented application of Brownfield

CCEI1220P4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

CCEI1220P4 - Essay Example This was a cognitive test, which Jacob failed. He never made any effort to think and search where the rattle was hidden, but instead he chose to cry. It was also an emotional test for Jacob to look for toys beyond his tracking area, which he also failed. As a baby, we would expect things to come easy for him, but he should have also endeavoured to find the toys at least. Based on the findings I made in activity 1, some of the actions that I will take when planning activities for Jacob are enhancing the classroom to ease movements, improve the kinds of toys that Jacob plays with and also establish games that could improve the cognitive development of Jacob. When enhancing the classroom, I will install things such as maps or directions on the floor to indicate where I have hidden the objects to make it easier for Jacob to find them. I will also introduce Jacob to toys such as building blocks. Cognitive games such as stacking blocks or emptying and filling objects can enhance motor learning, spatial awareness and effect, as well as cause. Through such games, infants, such a Jacob, can learn to be deliberate with their movement actions. Finally, I will incorporate games such as hide-and-seek, which can help Jacob learn analytic skills. I will ask Jacob to hide something in the trashcan or in another site away from where they are and ask other students t o find it. Also, this can teach language, as well as direction-following skills. Writing summaries of narratives is perhaps the most flexible ways or techniques of presenting a story. Summaries of narratives do not essentially tie the teacher down to chronological order, the way dramatisation and dialog do, nor do they need a focus on one specific feature of the tale, as descriptions normally do. This makes summaries of narratives one of the most prominent tools in an author’s toolbox, as well as one of the trickiest. Narrative summaries aid in coming up action plans in that they

Chemical catalyst Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Chemical catalyst - Essay Example Heck, Ei-ichi Negishi and Akira Suzuki for their work on â€Å"palladium-catalyzed cross couplings in organic synthesis" which in itself is evidence strong enough to validate the significance of catalysis in the fields of modern science, and particularly in industrial processes. Around 9 billion US Dollars defines the volume of the recent market for catalysts in the Global markets. (Dautzenberg, 2002). ‘Catalysis’ is defined as a phenomenon and ‘catalyst’ is the substance which is responsible for that phenomenon. A Catalyst is a substance which can usually rev up the rate of a chemical reaction but remains unaltered itself (physically and chemically) after the reaction. Sometimes particular substances can also slow down the rate of a chemical reaction. Such type of substances are known as inhibitors (Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica, 2011). According to the involvement in the phases, i.e., state of aggregation, catalysts are divided into three broad categories- (i) homogeneous catalyst (ii) heterogeneous catalyst and (iii) biocatalyst [Cavani &Feruccio, 1997; Hagen, 2006]. As the name suggests, homogeneous catalyst implies to the situation where the substrate and the catalyst are in the similar phase (gas or liquid). A very common example of a homogeneous catalysis is the conversion of carbon monoxide to carbon- di-oxide catalyzed by nitric oxide where both the substrate and catalyst are in gaseous phase. The fundamental advantages of homogeneous catalysis are that this type of catalysis is atom economic in respect to the other catalysis processes and additionally has higher selectivity in producing the desired product for its milder reaction condition. However, there are disadvantages associated with homogeneous catalysis as well. The problematic regarding homogeneous catalysis is the work up procedure of the reaction . The procedure for catalysis recovery is expensive, there is always a problem of waste management and above all a fair chance of

Business Law Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Business Law - Assignment Example The offeror cannot just cancel an offer once it is made. When an offer is made, the offeree (the one the offer is made to) can decide whether to take it or not within a reasonable timeframe. Since an offer puts some kinds of obligations on the offeror, there is the need to define what constitutes an offer. In this definition, there are some exceptions to the rule. When a person makes an indication that another person can enter negotiations for a contract, this is not an offer, it is an invitation to treat. A typical example of an invitation to treat is the case of the display of goods in a shop window. In Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain V Boots Cash Chemists (1953) it was held that goods displayed in a shop does not constitute an offer but an invitation to treat. Additionally, the declaration of an intent is not an offer. In Harris V Nickerson (1873), an auctioneer advertised the sale of goods in an auction. However, he refused to hold the auction on the said date. A prospect ive attendant sued for a breach. It was held that the advert was simply a declaration of intent but not an offer. Application In this, the advertisement by Gift House that they have reduced their A1 cameras was not an offer. It can be considered an invitation to treat. ... They are mere invitation to treat and declaration of intent respectively. Due to this, Martin does not have the right to purchase the camera at ?50. Davina Issue Davina gets informed that the A1 Camera (which sells for ?100) goes for ?50 in the shop. The shop also states that if anyone purchases goods worth ?500 by 1st December, there will be a free television. Davina mails an order for the camera and the goods totaling ?500 and indicates she wants the free television on 30th November. Davina receives the goods but finds out that she was charged ?100 for the camera and she did not get the television which was promised. The issue is whether the postal order created a legal contract that gives her rights to the camera at ?100 as well as the television set. Rule In Carlill V Carbolic Smoke Ball (1893), the defendants advertised to pay ?100 to anyone who caught flu after using smoke their smokeballs. Mrs Carlill used the smoke balls but caught flu. She argued that she was entitled to the ?100 promised. It was held that the offer was one that a reasonable person could take seriously. Secondly, the postal rule is established in the case of Adams V Lindsell (1818). It states that acceptance of an offer takes effect once the acceptance letter is posted. Application In this case, Davina saw a catalogue that advertised two things: the sale of a camera at ?50 and an offer of a free TV when a customer shops to the tune of ?500. This is something that the average person could take seriously and follow up. Davina followed up by making an order through post on the 30th of November. This order was a valid claim for the A1 Camera at ?50 and the TV prize since she shopped to the tune of ?500. According to the postal rule, this postage

Brand message placement and print circulation Coursework

Brand message placement and print circulation - Coursework Example The printed press is also losing ground to the internet. People prefer to read their news online than to read them from newspapers and magazine. Due to this tendency advertisers have realized that digital media is the wave of the future. There are different ways in which companies can advertize their products online. Companies can use different online strategies such email advertising, online classified ads, banners, links, and search engine placement among other popular strategies. The cost of advertising online is much cheaper than the traditional media channels. Another advantage of online advertising is that companies can target their audience better. For example a company that sells sporting goods can advertise in specialized sporting websites such as espn.com or yahoo sports. The internet also has the capability to track better the results of an advertising campaign. If a company invests in search engine ads and pays for 10,000 hits, the advertiser will receive the amount of views that it paid

Term Paper Project Domino's Pizza marketing strategist

Project Domino's Pizza marketing strategist - Term Paper Example o the increase in demand for fast food in the market and as a result of which new and existing pizza manufacturers have been entering or expanding their operations in the markets globally. It needs to be mentioned in this regard that the aspect of globalization also influenced Domino’s Pizza owing to which the company has been making constant attempts to enter or expand their operations in the new global markets. It was found in this respect that Domino’s intended to enter the markets of Argentina with their available or innovative fast foods such as pizza and drinks among others in order to realize their expansion plans. History and Origin of Domino’s Pizza Domino’s Pizza was introduced in the year 1960 and started operating in Michigan, United States by serving fast foods and deserts among others. Gradually, after capturing the market of US, the company started to expand its business overseas along with encompassing all the states of US. Presently, the c ompany is known to be operating in 70 countries with 10000 stores. Domino’s Pizza is considered to be amongst the largest chains of pizza restaurants currently owing to its global presence. Moreover, in the year 1998, the owner of Domino’s Pizza sold 93% of the company to Bain Capital Inc and in 2004, it transformed into a public company. Domino’s introduced innovative ideas with regard to their food products as well as services for the global market in order to satisfy the customers’ demands along with expanding the business operations. A few of the innovative food items introduced by the company can be identified as new inspired pizza, Domino’s heat wave, a desert food named cinna stix, cheesy dots and classic cheese burger among others. (Domino’s Pizza, 2012). It was recently found that Domino’s Pizza intends to enter the market of Argentina in order to fulfill its expansion plans. Demographic and Geographic Factors of Argentina Argentina is a European country and is learnt to be surrounded by Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Chile along with Bolivia. Argentina includes 5 cities namely Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Rosario, Mendoza along with La Plata. The total population of Argentina is stated to be 37 million as per 2000 year census. The form of Argentina’s government can be ident ified as Federal Republic with Bicameral Legislative Power. The prevailing religion of Argentina is Roman Catholic and the languages spoken are Spanish along with other native tongues (Argentina Xplora, 2001). Internal and External Environmental Factors of Argentina The market trends of Argentina’s fast food sector reveals demands do exist in the market which marks and justifies the presence of certain companies such as KFC, McDonalds and others in the market. These stated companies have also been found to expand their business operations throughout the various markets of Argentina (Euromonitor, 2012). The rising demand for fast food in Argentina can be ascertained from the amount of fast food stores present in the country and also from the expansion plans of various

The characterisation of Lady Macbeth Essay Example for Free

The characterisation of Lady Macbeth Essay Compare and contrast the way in which the characterisation of Lady Macbeth and the setting and atmosphere are developed in three productions of act 1 scene 5 Macbeth was performed for James I in August 1606 at Hampton court. He was asked to be King of England by Queen Elizabeth I when she was dying, because she didnt have any children to become her successor and he was the closest heir. James VI of Scotland became James I of England in 1603 after Queen Elizabeths death. Shakespeare based the story Macbeth on a book called, The History of Scotland written by Raphael Holinshed. In this true story Banquo helped Macbeth kill Duncan but because James was a descendant of Banquo, Shakespeare thought it would be indiscreet to suggest that one of Jamess ancestors had committed regicide. Duncans son Malcolm killed Macbeth in real life where as Macduff killed him in the play. The witches were added more into the play because James wrote a book about witches. The Elizabethans were also very interested in witchcraft and the supernatural. Macbeth is a story about regicide. In Shakespeares time the people thought that regicide was the greatest crime anyone could commit. They thought that God appointed kings to rule over the kingdom and any attack towards them meant that they were attacking God. In Macbeths letter he tells Lady Macbeth everything they do not have any secrets from each other. In the play Lady Macbeth thinks that Macbeth is too kind to murder Duncan and become king rather than waiting until he dies normally. Yet I fear thy nature; it is too full o the milk of human kindness to catch the nearest way. She is thinking that she has to control Macbeth to murder Duncan. Hie thee hither, that I may pour my spirits in thine ear. She wants to drive away all the things that would stop him being king. And chastise with the valour of my tongue all that impedes thee from the golden round. She wants to take away all her feminine values and replace them with pure evil to become a sexless, pitiless fiend so she can be able to commit such a great crime. Unsex me here, and fill me from the crown to the toe top-full of direst cruelty. She makes him ignore the fear of no afterlife in order to become king. As soon as she hears that Duncan is coming, she talks about killing him. O never shall sun that morrow see! she is telling him to hide the fact that they are going to kill Duncan from him but still be thinking it. Look like the innocent flower but be the serpent undert. She is trying to control Macbeth to kill Duncan just after she has heard that he is coming. And you shall put this nights great business into my dispatch. In the Royal Shakespeare Production Lady Macbeth is powerful, she can control what Macbeth does, she manipulates him with sexual persuasion to do what she wants him to do. She turns away from him and makes him move to her, this shows that she has power over Macbeth and can manipulate his actions. She is wearing a black flowing robe that covers up her shape and a black hat that covers up her hair. She is not very feminine, this portrays her as evil and capable of killing Duncan to become queen. When she is thinking about killing Duncan, she shows intense concentration. They embrace each other when Macbeth comes in; this shows that theyve got a very close relationship. In the BBC Production Lady Macbeth has not got much power over Macbeth. She runs up to him when he enters and he turns away from her when shes talking. She is wearing a long beige dress with a rope belt and has long hair, she is more feminine than the Lady Macbeth in the Royal Shakespeare Production because her clothes show more of the shape of her body. She does not seem as evil, but when she changes her voice she transforms the way she portrays the character. She moves around when shes thinking of how to kill Duncan and doesnt concentrate that much. She does stop and look through a window theres a long dramatical pause while she is thinking. this adds to the effect and shows that she is thinking about something important like murdering Duncan. She uses sexual movements and gestures in the unsex me scene; I dont think this is how Shakespeare intended this scene to come across. In the film by Polanski, Lady Macbeth is stroking some dogs when she is reading the letter from Macbeth, this shows her as sensitive and loving and not a devious, evil woman which I think is what Shakespeare wanted her to come across as. When shes talking about what Macbeth could become, she does not seem very exited. The unsex me scene is moved to when shes standing outside on her own, she is portrayed as evil when she changes her voice. When Macbeth comes in she runs up to him, he picks her up and carries her up the stairs, this portrays her as weak and childlike. She has little power over Macbeth, she has a little sexual persuasion but she doesnt seem to be able to manipulate him very much. When she says that they will kill Duncan, O never shall sun that morrow see. She comes across as playful and childish. She does not seem to be able to commit regicide, and too innocent to be filled with direst cruelty I think that the Royal Shakespeare production was the closest to the representation that Shakespeare portrayed in this play. The clothes she wore showed what Lady Macbeth was like. The actress played Lady Macbeth well because she showed that she is evil and manipulative using her movements and voice, she has power over Macbeth and influences what he does. In the BBC production she has not got as much power over Macbeth as in the Royal Shakespeare Production. She does not show that she is evil until she changes her voice. Her clothes show that she is more feminine and less capable of committing regicide. She uses sexual persuasion more than mental persuasion, this shows that she is not as calculating. In the Polanski film she is childlike and does not seem to be able to kill someone or even think about killing someone. She is very feminine because she is wearing a light blue dress, which shows the shape of her body. In my opinion Polanski got the character of Lady Macbeth completely w rong.

Dependency Theory and Colonial Heritage Essay Example for Free

Dependency Theory and Colonial Heritage Essay Many have tried to draw upon the legacy of the colonial system to explain the reasons for underdevelopment in many areas of the world. Most areas that suffer from poverty today are former colonies the developed nations, for the most part, are former metropoles. The colonizers exploited their underlings in colonies, turning them into suppliers of cheap raw materials and restricting the infrastructure construction, leaving former colonies with only basic facilities. In many cases, when the colonizers departed, the nations were left with artificial boundaries that separated them from each other without regard for their historical development. This fuelled subsequent separatism and military conflicts, hampering economic progress. Thus, if one looks at straight-line boundaries in Africa which we are now learning in DS 202, it becomes obvious that those were artificially created. The colonizers, in particular the British Empire, were suppressing the industrial development in their colonies because they viewed them as sources of cheap imports and at the same time large markets for their industrial goods. An example of north-eastern Brazil that often surfaces in literature on underdevelopment, (Taylor 2001) claims that north eastern Brazil in the 19th century would have appeared to be an ideal place for a textile industry with its high quality cotton and existing demand for sugar bags cloth and slave clothing. However, to develop the textile industry, it would take years during which the industry should have been shielded from foreign competition with import tariffs and quotas. This was surely not something Britain would allow in its colony. As a result, the fledgling Brazilian textile enterprises proved unable to withstand the competition with Britains textile industry. Britain, like almost any metropole, was interested in selling to the colony, not developing industry inside it. As of 1822, when Brazil received independence, it was a larger export market for Britain than all the rest of Latin America combined (Taylor, 2001). Naturally, even as Brazil proclaimed independence, Britain did not want to lose this lucrative market and demanded a trade treaty with Britain which prohibited import substitution tariffs (Taylor, 2001). Brazil was forced into this treaty by its political weakness. In this way, former metropolitan powers keep control of their former colonies to varying extents, blocking their effective development. In newly independent nations of Latin America, for instance, the warfare that  often preceded proclamation of independence devastated regional and national economies (Kinsbruner 1994 pg 126). Although this perspective is not universally recognised, the IMF and the World Bank for imposing policies said to aggravate third world countries. The stated goals of both institutions are certainly to spearhead economic growth in nations they service with their financial programs. Critics , however , point out that loans from the World Bank and the IMF often come with conditions that block the road to sustainable development and make poverty even worse . The Structural Adjustment Policies (SAPs) imposed by the IMF as a prerequisite for qualifying for its loans often aggravate the deplorable condition of the third world nation. Thus, SAPs often call for reduction in government expenditures for health, education and other government services for the sake of debt repayment. In this way, third world nations are dragged into the quagmire of debt repayment, as their interest provides income for Wall Street banks and other financial institutions. IMF policies urge third world countries to increase their exports of raw materials and agricultural products in to cope with debt an immediate concern. This, however, reduces the amount of food available to the poor inside the country and can lead to starvation second, does not create conditions for building processing industries that will increase value added inside the country. Besides, the IMF often demands for liberal market reforms that involve privatisation that, without proper preparation a nd evaluation of potential consequences, can lead to loss of jobs, aggravation of the social situation and civil unrest. Such measures lead to social discontent that can hamper the development of economies in developing countries. With respect to harmful policies imposed by the fund, Amin notes that the key to development is subordination of outside relations to the logic of internal development and not the reverse as it is happening when development policies are imposed by outside financial institutions (Amin, 1995 pg 10). The harmful role of the World Bank and the IMF in the development of poor nations is by no means indisputable. However, there are many criticisms aimed at the policies that accompany loans and the very idea of reaping interest income off the populations of the nations where starvation is a widely spread phenomenon. Political Aspects. Many regions of the world that demonstrate marked third world are characterised by overt concentration of power in the hands of a rich minority that uses this power to oppress the majority. For example, the North-eastern areas of Brazil that rely on sugar production as the primary source of income are seriously underdeveloped as compared to the rest of the nation. The property patterns in this region are the history of the dominant class manipulating social, political, and economic institutions so as to expropriate the maximum possible surplus from the rural workers (Taylor, 1978 pg 57). The economic interests of the land-owning class lay in extracting as much as possible from their plantations and workers as opposed to investing in the area. The result is miserable since an area that specialises in agricultural production cannot even feed its own citizens and has to import most of its agricultural produce from the rest of the nation. With a stagnant economic situation, the north-eastern Brazil has suffered from health education, and literacy standards that ended in a peasant revolt in the 1960s (Taylor, 1978 pg 157) Regional Inequalities. Many travellers to nations lik e China, India or the Caribbean are immediately impressed by the contrast between squalor of provincial areas and the apparent luxury of large cities and some ‘advanced’ areas. Regional inequalities contribute to underdevelopment, creating a situation when some areas are on their way toward modernisation, while others are forced into the backseat of social and economic progress. The importance of regional inequalities as source of underdevelopment is explored, for instance, in Andre Gunder Frank s 1989 publication The Development of Underdevelopment (Frank 1989) challenges the view that third world nations are still going through the stages that more developed countries are done with. Instead, he asserts that problems of underdeveloped areas are the inevitable result of the capitalist system. The same, in his mind, is true of the regional disparities observed in the third world countries where the capital and larger cities often stand out as oases of advancement among the generally gloomy landscape around. The underdevelopment phenomena in the province are the products of the historical development of the capitalist system no less than are the seemingly mor e modern or capitalist features of the national metropoles of the third world countries Frank (1989, pg 37). Education and Training. A well-trained and educated workforce is the necessary precondition for successful economic development. The presence of a large educated population contributes to Indias current rise as an outsourcing destination, although  it has so far failed to ensure overall prosperity in this nation. This problem, for instance, is addressed in Canadian programs targeting development of Aboriginal areas. The Indian entrepreneurship has to be supported with knowledgeable workforce that will attract capital flows to the areas. Although the fact that Native Americans missed the industrial revolution has its upside, as there is no need for re-training, integration of these people into the complex web of the global economy is a serious challenge (Kendall , 2001). Similar problems are experienced by many third world countries only in their case unlike the situation of Aboriginal populations in Canada, there is no strong nation to back them up in the efforts to increase their education. Cultural Factors. Culture, to some degree, can also adversely impact development or contribute to it. The modern world is patterned to a great extent after the Western cultures of the nations that have a dominant role in this world. Those that do not fit into these patterns will not achieve success as their development would ideally proceed along different lines. An example can be the case of Africa and Native Americans in Canada. Although living in a highly developed and prosperous nation, Native Americans, South Africa and even Zimbabwe, the Aboriginals fail to attain economic well-being. One reason that precludes their success is supposed to be their culture that envisages collective ownership and sharing of resources, as opposed to the idea of individual private rights that characterizes Western culture Kendall, (2001 pg 43). Industrial technology best develops in conditions that favour private ownership however, for these countries, it often means they have to abandon their cultural values which in most cases is not the case. CONCLUSION The difficulties of modernising and developing third world countries are multiple. More often than not different factors of third world countries will be present in areas affected by this problem, intertwined and perpetuating each other. Thus, the political situation marked by elite domination perpetuates economic inequalities that in their turn cause inadequacy of educational facilities and ensuing lack of local qualified specialists. Lack of medical services can lead to absence of effective family planning measures that in their turn lead to overpopulation and then to poverty as the national GDP struggles to catch up with economic growth.  Therefore, addressing a set of problems rather than separate issues is the cornerstone for building an effective development program.

Role Of Quantity Surveyor Construction Essay

Role Of Quantity Surveyor Construction Essay Introduction The name quantity surveyor conjures up a variety of different images in peoples imaginations. For some, the term quantity surveyor is an outmoded title from the past. It certainly no longer accurately describes the duties that are performed. When the term was first applied to the profession, the work of the Q.S. was vastly different to that now being carried out and anticipated in the twenty-first century. A Quantity Surveyor (QS) is a professional which is essentially construction accountant who manages the financial costs and contracts within construction industry. A Quantity Surveyor is involved in four main areas of work in construction industry which are building work such as residential housing and industrial developments, building engineering services such as lift services and others where prime cost sums are to be included in the bills of quantities, civil engineering such as infrastructure construction projects, and heavy and industrial engineering such as onshore and offshore oil and gas and petrol-chemicals. (Yeaw, 2008) Quantity surveyors deal with a wide variety of people including clients, architects, design engineers, construction managers, engineers, planners, estimators, supplier, lawyers and buyers. As building work increased in volume and complexity, there are a lot of sectors recognised the advantage of employing and independent quantity surveyor to prepare an accurate bill of quantities, and measure and value any variation during the progress of work. (Seeley, 1997) Today, quantity surveyors are also being appointed as a project manager to take control of the project from inception to completion and to coordinate the work of the design team and the main contractor and subcontractor. (Seeley, 1997) They can find employment in various areas such as property surveys for hidden defects on behalf of potential purchasers, running estates, valuing the mineral deposits for mining companies, selling property and even Leasehold Reform Act work. The roles of Quantity Surveyor will vary depending on his role either within the clients consultant or the contractor. Role of Private or Public Quantity Surveyor The Quantity Surveyor who works in private or public sector is an important member of the design team. The role of QS includes: Preliminary Cost Advise The QS is an expert in cost appraisal. He/She gives practical advice on the likely cost of the scheme from the inception of a new project. Besides that, he also advises on the comparative costs of alternative layouts, materials, components and methods of construction. Cost Planning during the design stage The QS will prepare a realistic budget and a cost plan showing the distribution of cost for each element once the employers brief is done. (Seeley, 1997) Cost planning during the design stage of the project is to ensure the client obtain the best possible value of his money including added value to his property asset, preferably having regard to total costs using life cycle costing technique so that the costs are distributed in the most realistic way and the contract sum is kept within the clients budget. Approximate estimate of the initial costs of building are prepared using feasibility or conceptual estimating which are single price methods of estimating. (Seeley and Winfield, 1999) When the budget and cost plan were acceptable to the client then the design was developed by the architect. Procurement Advice The QS in design team has a duty to advice the client on the most appropriate form of building procurement based on the type of project, quality of building, speed of construction, apportionment of risk and price certainty. (Seeley and Winfield, 1999) There are numbers of procurement methods using in United Kingdom. For example, traditional method is to negotiate tenders with a single contractor and design and build method is where the contractor undertakes the whole task of design and construction. (Seeley, 1997) Documents Preparation (Tender and Bills of Quantities) The QS will need to prepare tender document in the tendering stage and Bill of Quantities is a part of tender document. Measurement and quantification are required to provide a complete Bill of Quantities. (BQ) BQ translates the drawings, schedules and specification notes produced by designers into a document listing in detail all the components parts required for the project to enable all contractors to calculate his tender prices in same quantities. (Seeley, 1997) Selection of Contractor The QS provides frank, sound and practical advice on contractor selection. QS will based on the industrial relations record, past performance in meeting standard, time target and the quality of management and then make recommendations to the employer on the make up of the selection list. (Seeley, 1997) Negotiation During tendering, the private or public QS will evaluation of tenders and negotiate rates with contractors. Sometimes, QS will choose two of the best contractors and ask them price for the project again with discount rates. Valuing work The contractor is paid monthly in most construction contracts. QS will value the work carried out each month based on the report of Clerk of Works and contractors QS and then making recommendations as to payment to be made to the contractor including advising on the financial effect of variation or receipt of instructions from the architect. (Seeley, 1997) Settlement of contractual claim QS will prepare interim certificate to contractor every month based on the negotiate accepted claims with the contractors QS. Financial Statement A QS prepares financial statement to employer during the construction period and advice the employer on anticipated liability for payment, giving dates and amounts. Preparation of Final Account At the completion of the contract works, QS will need to prepare the final account for the whole project and agree details and totals with the contractors Quantity Surveyor. Role of Contractors Quantity Surveyor The Quantity Surveyors work in contractors firm and is an important member of the construction team. The duties of QS will vary according to the size of the firm. For smaller firms, the roles are tending to be more very wide in scope. However, the roles are tending to be more specified for large firms. (Seeley and Winfield, 1999)It includes: Preparation of Bills of Quantities Commencing of a project, contractors QS will need to prepare BQ with accurate measurement and estimating and then insert prices into the tender document which is provided by private or public QS. There are two types of contract document which are lump sum contract and BQ contract. Lump sum contract is the contract document comprises a BQ without quantities. So, the QS will need to do his own measurement based on the drawings and then come out with accurate quantities. BQ contract means the contract document comprise BQ with quantities. So, the QS just need to do pricing for those documents. Cost Planning during the construction stage Seeley (1997, pg63) wrote that Cost planning is a specialist technique used by the quantity surveyor. It is used to help all the members of construction team to keep works within the budget. Once a realistic estimate is agreed and everything follow in accordance with it, effective cost planning will help to ensure over-budget will not occur in the project from the successful contractors tender to final project cost. Constant monitoring of the cost planning will decrease the risk of overspending at an early stage and prompt corrective action can be taken. Cost planning improves the better value of money. The contractors QS will aim to secure maximum payment for the work done at the earliest possible time to avoid any possible cash flow problems. (Seeley, 1997) He will prepare cost plans that list down all the expenses right through to the projects completion. Negotiation Contractors QS is responsible to control the construction cost during construction stage. To improve the better value of money and maintain the quality of the building, he will negotiate the material price, machinery cost and labour cost with the supplier and come out with a most reasonable price and quality report. Sometimes, he also needs to negotiate with the clients QS for the variation order and payment issue. Comparison of cost QS will need to collect information about the cost of various operations in order to give a better value of money and provide information for the contractor to prepare future estimates. He will do the comparison of the cost of alternative methods of carrying out various operations so that the most economical procedure can be adopted. (Seeley, 1997) Documents Preparation (Sub-contract and meeting report) Preparation of the BQ for the sub-contract is done by contractors QS when some of works are substituted to another specialist. QS will prepare a lump sum contract or BQ contract base on the scope of work of the sub-contractor. In the sub-contract, QS will state the contract sum, commencing date, completion date, scope of work and etc. Besides that, QS also need to prepare site meeting report before the site meeting. He will receive a letter which state the date of site meeting one week before the meeting. The frequency of site meeting is depended on the architect. Normally, it is twice a month. The meeting report includes the project brief, contract information, document register, quality report, work progress chart and progress photos. Making application to the architect or engineer for variation order The QS requires assessing the cost of alternative designs of temporary works and other operations in order to prepare cost and value reconciliations for internal purposes and to forecast trends. He also makes application to the architect for variation orders if drawings or site instructions vary the work and the agreeing the value of variations with clients QS. (Seeley, 1997) Interim valuation and payments QS will prepare interim costing to clients QS so that the contractor can ascertain of his financial position and make appropriate action taken when necessary. (Seeley, 1997) Contractors QS is responsible for looking after the financial interest of the contractor and work in conjunction with private practice on the preparation of interim payments. (Ashworth and Hogg, 2007) Final account preparation QS will assembling data for the final account from the start of the contract to ensure that it will be completed in all its aspects and to give the contractor his proper entitlement under the contract. (Seeley, 1997) Other roles of Quantity Surveyor Ashworth and Hogg (2007, pg9) write In response to the potential demise of bills of quantities, quantity surveyors began exploring new potential roles for their services. The evolved roles of Quantity Surveyor are: Whole life costing The meaning of whole life costing is defined by the Ashworth and Hogg who refer to the Construction Best Practice Programme 1998 (2007, pg146) write that the systematic consideration of all relevant costs and revenues associated with the acquisition and ownership of an asset. All the costs associated with various options for a project are added together to represent a total cost. Future costs are discounted to a present day value. The QS provides the whole life costing to the clients based on the initial cost such as design and construction costs and future cost such as rental and maintenance cost to give an emphasis on a whole or total cost approach undertaken during the acquisition of a capital cost project or asset rather than merely concentrating on the initial capital costs alone. (Ashworth and Hogg, 2007) Value Management Value management is a specialist area. It is important to the success of projects in providing the foundation for improving value for money in construction. Clients are generally wanted higher quality buildings at lower prices and which were produced more quickly. QS involves in value management will examine a strategic problem that a company may face before the decision to build a building. He also uses the value management knowledge to obtain a reduction in construction costs. (Ashworth and Hogg, 2007) Risk Analysis Nowadays, most of the dedicated project manager has a quantity surveying background. Amongst all client advisors, QS is the most suited and motivated toward the management of risk. Sometimes, risk may affect an estimate. So, the QS will need to assess the probability and extent of the effect. The QS evolved the risk analysis to control the occurrence and impact of risk factors and provides clients with better information upon which to make decision. (Ashworth and Hogg, 2007) Expert witness The QS also can become an arbitrator nowadays. He often called upon to act as expert witness in respect of a wide variety of building disputes due to he has the knowledge of the building contract. As an expert witness, the QS need to produce a proof of evidence covering all his intended evidence. (Seeley, 1997) Conclusion The traditional roles of Quantity Surveyor can be classified into private or public Quantity Surveyor and contractors Quantity Surveyor. The table below shows the summary of the roles of Quantity Surveyor in different working sectors. Private or Public Quantity Surveyor Contractors Quantity Surveyor Provide preliminary cost advise Prepare Bills of Quantities during tendering Prepare cost planning during the design stage Prepare cost planning during the construction stage Advice client for different procurement method Prepare tender document and Bills of Quantities Prepare sub-contract and meeting report Select the best contractor to do the work Negotiate the pricing rate with the contractor Negotiate the material price and construction cost with the supplier and the sub-contractor Value the work done by contractor Compare the cost provided by supplier and sub-contractor. Settlement of contractual claim Make application to the architect or engineer for variation order Prepare financial statement Prepare interim valuation and payment Prepare final Account Prepare final account Nowadays, the introduction of computerised systems for preparing BQ makes Quantity Surveyors practices become very nervous. The traditional roles of Quantity Surveyor are not enough for QS to survive in construction industry because it is becoming to take over by technology. So, in these few years, QS are trying to evolve their roles in construction industry. They become project managers, value managers, expert witness to provide whole life costing, value management, risk analysis, a prove of evidence in building disputes and so on to employers. The QS still have a lot of development spaces in construction industry. It will never be ended up and replaced by others. As QS in the future, I wont worry about the unemployment because it seems to be good in the economical crisis at 2007. I always believe that QS job is a Quite Smart job in the construction industry and has a good future. (Total: 2418 words)

Our Church Choir :: Personal Narrative Essays

Our Church Choir Last year our church choir was preparing for its twenty-seventh spring concert, and I was in charge. No, I was not president of the church choir, I was the "musician's representative!" I had not an inkling what that meant, but, sure enough, my ignorance would not linger. I was to be in charge of organizing all things musical, from equipment to musicians. The musicians seemed almost ready. The choir still had three songs to learn, but with rehearsals every night and impromptu performances in the dining halls, on the shuttle buses I felt generally confident. As a rule, when you are putting on a performance and feel "generally confident" one week before show time, begin panicking. The first disaster struck close to home: our drummer's grandmother passed away. Apart from the tremendous blow this tragedy dealt both him and the choir, we needed to find another drummer. Then, like an ominous slinky, the rest of my carefully laid plans fell one on top of the other. Our directors took ill. The music was taking too long to teach. Our pianist, gone. Our strongest soprano's voice, history. And I broke a bass string. I could do nothing but laugh . . . and cry. I managed to do that quite a bit. But just when Murphy's Law seemed martially imposed, things got miraculous. The night before the concert, an old church choir drummer stopped by to learn all two hours of the music. The choir learned the rest of the music that same evening and, when we finished, the room glowed with harmony. We were rough, but overall, the evening returned my general sense of confidence. (See above rule.) When I arrived the next evening, a troubling sight greeted me: a cart with none of the sound equipment I had ordered. We had no microphones. We had no speakers. I had already lost my wits by this point, and now I was inches from losing hope. A group assembled to see what could be salvaged from the situation and was mildly successful. But with all these distractions, the choir could not possibly be . . . Brilliant! The choir was brilliant. I have never been part of such a beautiful musical experience. But what is the point of this story? This story explains how our church choir operates: by grace of God and family.

The Coming Of Age Essay -- essays research papers

The Coming of Age   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Childhood is a time where children learn about the world around themselves. They see and experience many factors that influence their everyday lives, which help them grow stronger when they become adults. In 'Girl'; by Jamaica Kincaid and 'The Lesson'; by Toni Cade Bambara the characters within the stories learn valuable lesson with help them grow to become better individuals. In 'The Lesson'; the character of Sugar undergoes a realization that society does not treat everyone equally, that not every individual has the same opportunity and equality that they should have. In 'Girl'; the main character learns that she must be perceived as a woman and not as a slut, her mother brings to her attention of how the world is and what she must to do in order to survive in it. Lessons that children learn all help them grow to become better individuals, in 'Girl'; and 'The Lesson'; the lessons that the characters learn both help them grow to become better and stronger individ uals.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 'The Lesson'; the character, Sugar undergoes a realization of the world around her, through her teacher Miss Moore, Sugar notices that there is a better way of living in the world besides, her own little world with her friends. Sugar says, 'You know, Miss Moore, I don't think that all of us here put together eat in a year what that sailboat costs,'; (Bambara 452). Miss Moore is an African American woman who has broken through the expectation that society has placed on her class and on her color. Bambara presents Miss Moore as a very educated and intelligent woman, who has a college degree. With her knowledge Miss Moore sets out to educate the deprived and lower classed children and teach them of the world around them. She sets out to open their eyes, as well as their knowledge of the world around them. Miss Moore says, 'Imagine for a minute what kind of society it is in which some people can spend on a toy what it would cost to feed a family of six or seven. Wh at do you think?,'; (Bambara 452).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Sugar's realization of the world outside of her own, opens her mind to many questions that she never imagined before. She realizes that there is a better standard of living in the world and that society is not equal, as it should be, 'I think, . . . that this is not much of a democracy if y... ...woman and not be viewed as a slut. The daughter in 'Girl'; wants to rebel against her mother and not be viewed as a slut to society, therefore hoping that society will not look down upon her, if she does not do everything that the mother has taught her that she must do. In the stories of the 'Girl'; and 'The Lesson'; different lessons are learned, but the common realization of the world around them is learned by the characters and how each of the characters must learn to rebel against societies views. This realization helps them grow smarter and stronger as they grow older and come of age, from childhood to adulthood. Society has set standards for individuals to live by, but it is up to those individuals to break away, or live by the standards and views of society. 'It is not much of a democracy if you ask me. Equal chance to pursue happiness means an equal crack at the dough,'; (Bambara 452). In reality, society has set standards for everyone to live by. Those who break away from it are look down upon if they fail, but if they succeed they are praised by, this may be the only way to change societies views of gender, class, and race; it is by succeeding in everything that you do.

Oedipus the King Essay -- Classics Oedipus King Essays

Oedipus the King Oedipus the King is the perfect example of a tragedy. It contains a complete combination of all the features of a tragedy. Aristotle in his Poetics[1] defines Oedipus as being 'a definite example of the form and purpose of tragedy'. In tragedies the Greeks dramatized climactic events in the lives of heroes, and Oedipus' story is no exception. By using many different literary devices it brings moral dilemmas of action and motive to the public stage. The action is set out over the timeframe of one day, which will according to the prophet Tiresias will bring Oedipus' 'birth' and 'destruction'. King Oedipus is the central protagonist and within his character lies a tragic flaw. He is unintentionally the architect of his own downfall. The strengths that once lead him to solve the riddle behind the sphinx later lead him to his own downfall. In the words of the priest; 'you helped us stand, only to fall once more'. Oedipus' hamartia is his anger. It lies at the root of the plot. It was fury that lead him to kill Laius. He was about to thrust Oedipus off the road one night, so Oedipus 'paid him back with interest' by murdering him. Another flaw is a persistent desire to discover the truth. His 'mindless stubbornness' motivates him to seek the truth about Laius' killer and who his father is. This search leads to the turn of events that take place throughout the play. Despite constant denial of his fate he cannot deny the work of the gods. Tiresias delivers him a prophecy of this fate. Oedipus' circumstances are far beyond his own control. No matter what he attempts to do or alter every path leads the same way. He finds himself 'always terrified Apollo's' oracle might come true'. However he is determined to seek out the Kings murderer to punish him. This search interlinks with the search for his father. Jocasta also tries to deny destiny believing that 'nothing human can penetrate the future'. She claims to believe that 'It's all chance, chance rules our lives'. However fate inevitably takes over. Through the process of anagorsis Oedipus discovers he is in fact the very criminal he seeks. Along with this he realises further truth in the prophecy, that he is married to his mother. Jocasta also comes to realise the same truth. By the end of the play his final downfall along with hers is inevitable. Tragic iro... ...loins that spawned my wretched life. What grief can crown this grief? It's mine alone, my destiny - I am Oedipus!' These two statements show the peripeteia of Oedipus' life. Once a hero basked in glory, he has now succumbed to his destiny. In turn he is lowered to a truly pathetic state. His altered state serves to highlight the reversal of fortune he undergoes. His tragic flaw leads him to acknowledging his fate. Oedipus' downfall comes as he tries to escape fate but cannot. The audience knows this as does the chorus and we can only watch. Oedipus the King contains nothing outside of the definition; it's just pure Tragedy at the very core. It also confirms to Aristotle's theory of Tragedy. It obeys all the rules and the elements of Tragedy mentioned throughout. These features entwine together to create the ultimate work of Tragedy. From all of this it is unquestionable that the word 'tragedy' is a usefully accurate description of Sophocles' play Oedipus the King. --------------------------------------------------------------------- [1] W.B. Worthen, The Harcourt Brace Anthology of Drama, 3rd Edition (USA, Harcourt College Publishers, 2000), p 72.

Administrator Interview Essay

For class I was to find and administrator in charge of hiring CTE teachers and find the answers to ten interview questions. I am fortunate enough to be teaching at a CTE school and was able to interview my principal. I interviewed Principal Tom Ryan, who’s the main campus principal The interview was held face to face in his office on September 28, 2012. This interview was very helpful in learning an administrator’s views and thoughts of important issues associated with CTE teachers and CTE programs. Mr. Ryan was very detailed and honest during the interview. I started the interview by asking Mr. Ryan what strengths and weakness he has seen in new CTE instructors. He thought for a moment before giving a very thought out response. See more: Ethnic groups and racism essay The strengths ; knowledge of subject content, familiarity with current pedagogy, compliant because not tenured, enthusiastic, recent employment in industry related field-familiar with real world operations, Weaknesses: uncertified –salary reduction, classroom management skills, not used to working in government bureaucracy, unrealistic expectations pertain to student enthusiasm and behavior, unfamiliar with operating procedures, typically experienced in field but not educated in effective teaching techniques and strategies. (T.  Ryan, personal communication, September 27, 2012). After reflecting upon his answer there was one point that stands out the most. I strongly agree with his thoughts that new teachers have a difficult time dealing with class management strategies. College prepares one academically for over three years but only offer a short time of practicum experience in the field. When teachers learn to effectively implement classroom management strategies and discipline they can engage students in learning activities for more than 90 percent of allocated time (Cangelosi, 1990, pp. 3-20). Mr. Ryan shared his thoughts of what skills he believed would best help newly hired teachers. Beyond subject knowledge a new teacher should be prepared to teach students life skill. Students must learn how to successfully interact with people in the work world 21st century skills. CTE teachers to become an asset for their schools must have enthusiasm, be a team player, willingness to go the extra mile, establish rapport with students and staff, and collaboration with colleagues. All of these qualities are needed in any job and are taught to our students under 1st Century Learning Skills. Next, I posed the question to Mr. Ryan if you had two applicants for a teaching position in your CTE department, what factors would you use to select any one of them and why? He responded that he would evaluate their ability to communicate, knowledge of subject matter, recent industry experience, ability to demonstrate skills, and ones perceived ability given in a 45 minute interview to fit into the educational environment –why? He simply stated, â€Å"Because these are the skills necessary to successfully teach† (T.  Ryan, personal communication, September 27, 2012). Before I could ask the next question Mr. Ryan spoke of how he perceived the purpose of CTE. We agreed that the purpose of CTE was to prepare students with entry level skills, and to expose them to current industry practices as well as to give them the soft skills 21st Century skills they will need to be successful in the work world or continuing education. One enrolls in a technical education center in order to gain employment upon graduation or move on to post-secondary education. Following the above conversation we switched gears and talked about reasons an educator would be relieved of their position. We discussed that there could be many factors that cause one to lose their job such as poor performance, layoffs due to economy, or program closures. A major factor in letting go of an employee relies on if the educator is tenured or not. Mr. Ryan stated there are three main reasons that would cause the dismissal of a certified teacher. The two he focused on was immoral or unethical behavior, and incompetence. I feel that these are fireable offensive for any job. A teacher must lead by example one should not ask others to do what they cannot Once a new instructor is hired they are assigned a mentor. A mentor’s job is to monitor the new instructors’ progress and provide feedback. This gives the instructor a forum to express the difficulties they encounter in adapting to the new work environment so that it becomes utopia. I shared that when I was first hired I found a mentor to be very helpful. When you first start teaching one has many questions that often the administrator does not have time for and/or the teacher feels uncomfortable asking. There have been many studies done that all show a well-developed mentoring program for new teachers can contribute to the quality of their practice. Moreover, many researchers state that these programs show the education system’s commitment to producing well prepared and successful teachers. Mr. Ryan spoke of the different ways that CTE programs could improve. Financing program was at the top of his list. This would allow programs obtain industry level equipment, provide proper staffing, and allow students the opportunity to participate in more internship opportunities by offering transportation. Transportation currently is the one factor preventing many students from obtaining internship positions. Financing would also provide academic support to help students gain the necessary job skills, life skills. Funding would allow for education of reading comprehension skills that will allow them to navigate new information and equip them with reasoning skills so they are able to apply critical thinking to new situations in an ever changing world. This just reiterates the fact of how important the Carl D.  Perkins Act was for CTE education. Lastly, we talked about reforms and what he would suggest for improving CTE programs and how teachers could prepare for such reforms. His biggest goal even though he thought was unlikely to occur was a shift the bureaucracy to allocating funds to actual instructional needs. Next, he felt it was important for our school to continue to strive for an instructional environment that would maximizes resources to allow all students to not be left behind.

An analysis of Ocean Park Essay

1. Introduction Hong Kong Ocean Park is considered as a one of world’s largest marine park, located on the south end of Hong Kong Island. The three sections are located on the headlands of Brick Hill, while the other two section is located in the Wong Chuk Hang Valley lowlands and Tai Shue Wan. It is considered as one of the largest ocean in the world, having an area of 870,000 square metres (2013). This paper will focus on analyze the external environment such as the economic and culture aspect that can affect the relationship of the organization to their customers, key to understanding their impact on the industry. Furthermore, it will focus on the internal environment of the organization such as its core competency, together with its strengths and weaknesses. There are various forces that influence the Marco Environment. Following is the detailed analysis based on the above dimensions: 2. Analysis of Ocean Park’s Environment Strategic position: To understand the business environment that Ocean Park is operating, we will examine it by the PEST Framework, and the SWOT analysis. 2. 1PEST analysis: 2. 1. 1 Political issues †¢Launch of individual visit scheme (Pos +) The Individual Visit Scheme was first introduced in four Guangdong cities on 28 July 2003 as a liberalisation measure under the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement. There were 4. 3 million Mainland visitor arrivals to Hong Kong under this scheme in 2004, mainland China become No. 1 source guest of Ocean Park (Table 1. 1). †¢ The railway scheme for the South Island Line1 (Pos +) The South Island Line (East) will be connecting the MTR network at Admiralty to the Southern District of Hong Kong, via new stations at Ocean Park. Construction of the South Island Line (East) commenced in 2011 for completion expected in 2015. In addition, there will be expanding tourism in the Southern District and link Aberdeen with Ocean Park. †¢Amendments to the Marriage Ordinance (Pos +) In 2005, the government approved a new policy on marriage registration. There is no limitation on choosing place for registering a marriage. The couples can registration on different place of worship with advance application for competent minister. All these provide new business opportunities for Ocean Park. 2. 1. 2Economic trends †¢ GDP Growth in China and Hong Kong (Pos +). While 2008- 2009 Hong Kong struggles with financial tsunami, one year after the gross domestic product (GDP) grew by a remarkable 9. 3% (Figure 1) in real terms and China’s GDP growth seen as stable. That’s able to provide a stable economic environment to Ocean Park which able to sustain its development. GDP growth (annual %) in Hong Kong and China Fig 1 GDP ANNUAL GROWTH RATE, Source form Census and Statistics Department and National bureau of statistics of china †¢ Employment rate in HK (Pos +) The unemployment rate fell from a high of 8. 6% in the second quarter of 2003 to a near three-year low of 6. 5% in the fourth quarter 2004. Hong Kong consumer spending maintained notable growth throughout the year since they are optimistic of the economic outlook and improving labour market conditions. Underemployment rate (%)2006201020112012 4. 84. 43. 43. 4 Fig 2. Source from Census and Statistics Department2 2. 1. 3Cultural and social values and trends †¢ The demographic distribution of Hong Kong and China (Pos +) Ocean Park is geared toward families: parents, kids, and grandparents. From fig 3 it shows the family size of Hong Kong are getting smaller, that means parent are able to spend more money on their spoiled kids. On the other hands, China’s one-child family policy has had a great effect on living standards, the mainland traveler are willing to spend money on travel. Domestic Households by Household Composition and Household Size, 2006 and 2011 20112006 Household Composition Household size Composed of couple and unmarried children 1nilnil 2nilnil 3382 704344 436 4390 839400 360 5135 293140 382 6 and over25 37934 172 Fig 3, Source: Census and Statistics Department 2011 †¢ Annual event for attraction (Pos+) Events are the main reason of the attractions business. They recognized this early and hold different annual events such as Chinese New Year, Summer, Halloween and Christmas. The Halloween Bash has become an iconic Halloween event in the region and guests from Hong Kong, mainland China and overseas has shown biggest support in October and over the years. The showcase successfully spread Halloween culture to their visitors and bringing a new experience to the tourists from mainland. 2. 1. 4Technology Analysis †¢New web site to promote and events (Pos+) With the increasing use of internet, it becomes an important link for marketing and customer relationship. The internet can offer a great connection with huge and immeasurable possible market. The website will keep updating Ocean Park’s latest information, news, promotion and more interactive function can be added in. 2. 2SWOT Analyze Education, fun and safety are the values which Ocean Park stresses. Apart from that Ocean Park key also provides all tourists with an experience in natural scenic environment and exotics animals (Appendix 1). However, increased competition may result in a further downward price pressure and affect the company’s financial condition and result of operation. StrengthsWeakness †¢Unique animals are selling point in ocean Park. †¢Ocean Park is recognized as icon of Hong Kong. †¢Reasonable price of tickets †¢Limitations on land development as it’s hilly. †¢Facilities are relatively old an unattached. Opportunities †¢Individual Traveling Scheme was carried out in 2003. †¢Strong economy growing in China. †¢Support of local government. †¢Higher demand of entertainment from the public. Threats †¢Competition and challenges from HK Disneyland. †¢More attractive points in the neighboring countries. Strengths: †¢Unique animals are selling point in Ocean Park. Grand Aquarium, marine creature are unique selling point inside the OP. The main strengths of OP focus on their offering of animals, fun and education to the tourists. OP tries to present the natural behavior of animals to enable people to see them in a creative way. The key is finding a balance between human entertainment and natural environments. That makes OP different from a lot of theme parks in the world. They also offer a differentiation advantage because it is considered as bigger than the HK Disneyland, thus enabling OP to offer more and new features and shows than Disneyland. Compare with Disneyland, they are focuses on showing the reality regarding the nature, while Disneyland focuses on fantasy. †¢Ocean Park is recognized as icon of Hong Kong and has established a good image. OP is a Hong Kong park; it’s very local and they have generational values. It’s been around longer than 30 years and there is a connection to the market. People go to the park as children and now they are bringing their children. †¢Reasonable price of tickets Ocean Park offers cheaper ticket costs HK$280 for adult and HK$140 for children, compare to HK$450 for adult and HK$320 for child of Disneyland. Tickets are offered at a reasonable price which can be afforded for most people and attract more visitors easily. Theme ParkGeneral Admission TicketChild TicketSenior Ticket Disneyland$450$320$100 Ocean Park$280$140Free Fig. 5 Comparison of ticket prices of Ocean Park and Disneyland. Source form Ocean Park and Disneyland website. Weakness †¢Limitations on land development as it’s hilly. Structure of geographic location is the main disadvantage. This is due to the fact that they have the limitation on the land development because the location is hilly. †¢ Facilities are relatively old and unattached. 9 Although OP started the renovation works but it would not be completed in a short time. The maintenance expense is higher. The fact that they is considered as an oldest amusement park in Hong Kong, there are different facilities that are old and un-attractive. Opportunity: †¢Individual Traveling Scheme The main opportunity of Ocean Park is launch the Individual Traveling scheme. That had helped to improve the number of the visitors. (Table 1. 3) The stable economy growth in Mainland also improving middle class with strong purchasing power helped to increase the demand of outbound travel. Mainland traveler becomes a main guest source of OP. Now they have Chinese acrobatic shows, which are relevant to the market they serve. †¢Support of local government Ocean Park has a strong marketing support from the government that recommends to the foreign visitors. It is also important to consider the development of new transportation South Island Line that would cause convenience and fast access direct to the park for the visitors. †¢Higher demand of entertainment from the public as economic growth stably. Threats †¢Competition Disneyland In Hong Kong amusement park industry, one of the threats that must be considered is Disneyland. The main influences because they were bringing a world-class standard of entertainment and service that Ocean Park unable to match at that time. Furthermore, it targets the children, thus the whole family because of the different rides and attractions that focuses on different well-known Disney characters. On the other hand, the main disadvantage is that most of the mainland Chinese doesn’t have those strong attachments with Mickey and friends and other Disney characters. These aspects are important for the company because most of the visitors of the country come from mainland China. 3. Conclusion As of now, Ocean Park is enjoying a comfortable position in the amusement industry. The main reason for the success of Ocean Park is because the support from the government that can be seen the implemented for easy access of the said place. With the launch of Individual Visit Scheme, mainland China becomes a main source of Ocean Park. The Mainland market is driving Ocean Park’s growth. Increasing GDP and low unemployment rate provide a stable economic environment to Ocean Park which able to sustain its development. For all the positive factors, it shows Ocean Park will grow faster than average. OP was able to use the culture in order to attract more locals and foreign visitors, as well as the current spread of the environmental awareness, which enables the organization to incorporate education and thrill in their features and services. That is the reason why it is frequently visited by families from different part of the globe. Furthermore, the organization had been focuses on the cost and differentiation create as two important competitive advantages. It had been offer an affordable ticket with fun experience. It is also important for the company to use its unique innovative reform, competitiveness of enterprises and expanding the scope of business and achieved good results to against its competitor. This is due to the fact that Disneyland is currently into renovation process, in order to regain their competitive position in the market. Ocean Park has now entered the second phase of the expansion plan, the further enhance the competitive strength of the Ocean Park is expected to become a world’s best marine theme park. Reference: 1. MTR – South Island Line (East) – Key Information – Summary. 2013. MTR – South Island Line (East) – Key Information – Summary. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www. mtr-southislandline. hk/en/key-information/summary. html. [Accessed 14 May 2013]. 2. Overview | Census and Statistics Department. 2013. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www. censtatd. gov. hk/hkstat/sub/so30. jsp. [Accessed 18 May 2013]. 3. Vision and Mission | Corporate Information | Ocean Park Hong Kong. 2013.. Available at: http://www. oceanpark. com. hk/html/en/footer/corporate-information/vision. html. [Accessed 13 May 2013]. 4. Hong Kong Economy – Hong Kong Economic Trends. 2013. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www. hkeconomy. gov. hk/en/trends/index. htm#2. [Accessed 13 May 2013]. 5. Press Release | Corporate Information | Ocean Park Hong Kong. 2013 Available at: http://www. oceanpark. com. hk/html/en/footer/corporate-information/press/press. php? id=592. [Accessed 16 May 2013]. 6. Gross Domestic Product for the 4th quarter 2004 and the whole year of 2004 | Census and Statistics Department. Available at: http://www. censtatd. gov. hk/press_release/press_releases_on_statistics/gdp/gdp_4q2004/index. jsp. [Accessed 18 May 2013]. 7. Labour – Overview | Census and Statistics Department. 2013. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www. censtatd. gov. hk/hkstat/sub/so30. jsp. [Accessed 18 May 2013]. 8. Ocean Park Corporation (2012), Annual Report, Page 96 9. EMSD completes investigation into helium balloon ride incident at Ocean Park. 2013. EMSD completes investigation into helium balloon ride incident at Ocean Park. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www. info. gov. hk/gia/general/201208/30/P201208300416. htm. [Accessed 18 May 2013]. Exhibit 1: Hong Kong tourism statistics Table 1. 1, An overview of the latest general tourism statistics. 2013 Visitor Arrivals (Year-to-date) : 12,742,332. Major Market AreasMar 2012Mar 2013Growth (%) All Countries3,709,4844,087,286+10. 2 The Americas167,827165,247-1. 5 Europe, Africa & the Middle East219,777235,706+7. 2 Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific66,14568,459+3. 5 North Asia210,918183,919-12. 8 South & Southeast Asia329,028351,684+6. 9 Taiwan154,942165,455+6. 8 Mainland China2,497,0612,842,002+13. 8 Source from: Hong Kong Tourism Board In 2011, Mainland China continued to be the largest visitor source market of Hong Kong with 28. 1 million arrivals (+23. 9%), accounting for 67. 0% of our total arrivals. Amongst all Mainland arrivals, 14. 5 million (51. 6%) were same-day visitors, up by 31. 7% year-on-year. 65. 3% or 18. 3 million visitors came to Hong Kong under the Individual Visit Scheme (IVS), up by 28. 8% over 2010. Table 1. 2 Total Tourism Expenditure Associated to Inbound Tourism Tourism Expenditure fromJan-Dec2011 (HK$Mn)Jan-Dec2012 (HK$Mn)Growth (%) Overnight Visitors166,694. 05185,841. 44+11. 5 Same-day In-town Visitors39,358. 0952,606. 33+33. 7 Cruise-in / Cruise-out Passengers 70. 8274. 935. 8 Total Tourism Expenditure Associated to Inbound Tourism258,722. 71296,563. 77+14. 6 Source from: Hong Kong Tourism Board. Table 1. 3 Hong Kong’s Top 5 tourist attraction (‘000) Leading Visitor Attractions2009201020112012 Total59,326. 261,438. 863,634. 165,774. 9 Other Visitor Attractions28,952. 529,286. 130,118. 030,789. 2 Victoria Peak9,150. 19,608. 89,990. 610,359. 5 Ocean Park4,985. 25,242. 85,472. 55,722. 4 Peak Tramways4,930. 95,434. 65,727. 16,051. 3 Disneyland4,664. 34,970. 25,218. 05,525. 1 Clock Tower2,178. 92,313. 72,399. 02,486. 3 Wong Tai Sin Temple1,989. 02,028. 72,080. 82,137. 7 Tian Tan Buddha1,544. 31,586. 21,629. 01,670. 7 Hong Kong Wetland Park456. 3470. 0477. 3486. 7 Noah’s Ark474. 6497. 7521. 8545. 9 Source from: Travel and Tourism: Euromonitor from trade sources/national statistics Table 1. 4 Tourist Attractions Sales HK$ million200620072008200920102011 Art Galleries 15. 115. 415. 816. 116. 917. 5 Casinos —— Circuses —— Historic Buildings/Sites 202. 1205. 7209. 4215. 7221. 0225. 5 Museums 48. 352. 368. 052. 353. 354. 6 National Parks/Areas Of Natural Beauty 633. 0662. 5685. 7713. 1738. 0765. 3 Theatres —— Theme/Amusement Parks 2,512. 02,007. 92,188. 63,434. 53,674. 93,940. 3 Zoos/Aquariums —— Other Tourist Attractions 296. 9325. 6332. 1345. 4357. 5372. 8 Tourist Attractions 3,707. 43,269. 43,499. 64,777. 15,061. 75,376. 0 Source: Euromonitor International from official statistics, trade associations, trade press, company research, trade interviews, trade sources Table 1. 5 Tourist Attractions Visitors ‘000 people200620072008200920102011 Art Galleries 748. 8775. 8791. 3795. 3827. 1851. 9 Casinos —— Circuses —— Historic Buildings/Sites 5,573. 25,701. 45,786. 95,931. 66,139. 26,323. 3 Museums 4,600. 04,839. 26,049. 05,202. 15,176. 15,251. 7 National Parks/Areas Of Natural Beauty 17,832. 018,402. 618,954. 719,618. 120,402. 821,263. 8 Theatres —— Theme/Amusement Parks 9,659. 29,141. 79,415. 09,516. 510,070. 810,684. 7 Zoos/Aquariums —— Other Tourist Attractions 15,783. 816,573. 016,854. 717,444. 617,968. 018,617. 2 Tourist Attractions 54,197. 055,433. 657,851. 658,508. 260,584. 062,992. 5 Source: Euromonitor International from official statistics, trade associations, trade press, company research, trade interviews, trade source Table 1. 6 Forecast Tourist Attractions Sales HK$ million201120122013201420152016 Art Galleries 17. 518. 118. 619. 119. 519. 9 Casinos ——. Circuses —— Historic Buildings/Sites 225. 5229. 5233. 2236. 5239. 3241. 7 Museums 54. 655. 856. 857. 858. 759. 4 National Parks/Areas Of Natural Beauty 765. 3789. 8811. 9832. 2850. 5867. 5 Theatres —— Theme/Amusement Parks 3,940. 34,176. 74,385. 54,561. 04,697. 84,801. 1 Zoos/Aquariums —— Other Tourist Attractions 372. 8385. 9397. 5407. 4415. 6421. 8 Tourist Attractions 5,376. 05,655. 75,903. 56,113. 86,281. 36,411. 4 Source: Euromonitor International from official statistics, trade associations, trade press, company research, trade interviews, trade sources Table 1. 7 Ocean Park Revenue Breakdown 2012 HK$ Million2011 HK$ Million Admission Income1,109. 4881. 6 Merchandise Income164. 0144. 9 Catering Income262. 3195. 5 Others32. 726. 7 TOTAL1598. 21,248. 7 Source: Ocean Park Corporation (2012). Annual Report Appendix 1: Background of? Ocean Park: Ocean Park has long been established as an iconic attraction in Hong Kong visited by both local residents and tourists. As a result the Park has become part of Hong Kong’s heritage. The Master Redevelopment Project of the Park, with its many new attractions, commenced in 2006 and was completed in 2012. With the implementation of ongoing expansion programme, the Park has been remaining very popular, with visitor number increasing to 7 million in 2012. With the completion of the Master Redevelopment Plan in 2012 and the planned opening of a number of new world-class attractions from 2014, one day is not enough to experience all that the Park has to offer. The Ocean Hotel will thus provide convenient accommodations for guests spending multiple days at Ocean Park, and transform Hong Kong People’s Park into a premier international resort destination. Vision: Ocean Park aspires to be a world leader in providing excellent guest experiences in a theme park environment connecting people with nature. Mission Statement: Ocean Park provides all guests with memorable experiences that combine entertainment and education, while inspiring life long learning and conservation advocacy. Our aim is to maintain a healthy financial status, while striving to deliver the highest standards of safety, animal care, products and guest service Key services of Ocean Park: Animals are the base of OP differential offering—how they present them in their natural environments. They try to showcase the natural behavior of animals to enable people to see them in a way they’ve not done before. The key is finding a balance between human entertainment and natural animal behavior. That makes us different from a lot of theme parks in the world. Target Market of Ocean Park: Target customers of Ocean Park are general public. In different occasion, Ocean Park would concentrate on specific targets. For example, in summer.