High-Performance Works Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

High-Performance Works Systems - Essay Example The paper intends to look at the discussion regarding high high-performance systems vis-à  -vis that of human resource strategy to be able to gain the better understanding of SHRM and HPWS in context. Applying principles learned from lean production, contemporary organizations have created paradigms with which employee involvement and participation has been considered as an integral factor in the achievement of the organization's goals and objectives. Being such, there is a continuous effort to come up with structures that will support global competitiveness and sustainability of competitive advantage among organizations in the business environment. In lieu of this, one phenomenal approach comes up – high performance works systems. The term high performance works systems (HPWS) is â€Å"often used to loosely describe a set of work innovations that include autonomous work teams, socio-technical systems, open systems planning, new plant designs and other similar innovations† (Farias & Varma, 1998: 50) It is synonymous with the terms â€Å"high-involvement or high commitment management.† (Tsai 2006: 1513) For, HPWS is technically a â€Å"configuration of structures, practices, and processes† (Gephart & Van Buren, 1996: 6) as organizations sustain their competitiveness in the global market. Another way of looking at HPWS is that it is the â€Å"alignment† (Gephart & Van Buren 1996) of all the units of the organization towards the achievement of the goals and objectives of the organization. And this is made feasible if the individuals in the organization see the objectives, goals, and vision of the organization as congruent and similar with theirs. This is attained when employees are giv en the chance to improve their skills, knowledge of their own field as well as other related fields, and when employees are motivated. While the managers become â€Å"coaches, facilitators and integrators and they share responsibility for decision making and results with employees.†

The ambitions of Henry VIII in the years to 1526 Essay Example for Free

The ambitions of Henry VIII in the years to 1526 Essay How successful was Wolsey’s foreign policy in satisfying the ambitions of Henry VIII in the years to 1526? (24 marks) The foreign policy of the 12 years following 1514 was Wolsey’s accounts have been written almost as if, during these years, Henry VIII only existed as a stamp and the decisions were made by Wolsey. It is apparent that Wolsey made most decisions on a day-to-day basis and occasionally took major initiatives without the King’s acknowledgement. Henry intervened decisively at times to redirect events at his pleasure. Wolsey has to look like he was implementing the King’s policies even if he was pursuing his own ideas. Henry played a more significant role in the formation and conduct of Wolsey’s foreign policy than has traditionally been suggested. It was argued that the aim was perused in order to preserve some influence for England in foreign affairs, by ensuring that no one attained such dominance that he could arrange matters without taking into account the interests of other states, such as England. The claim was that Wolsey followed this policy by threatening to give his support to whichever side seemed likely to be worsted by the other. It was maintained that this policy was generally successful in ensuring that England’s international status remained high. This is the orthodox interpretation, where the main idea is that Wolsey wanted to maintain the balance of power. However, J.J. Scarisbrick had serious doubt on the geniuses of Wolsey’s ambition to become Pope. He argued that Wolsey’s support of papal diplomatic initiatives was largely coincidental and happened because England and the Papacy shared common interests from time to time. Scarisbrick established a new ’revisionist’ interpretation based on the existence of a main aim and a preferred method. The aim was the established and maintenance of peace. The method was a variant of the old ’balance of power’ interpretation. He established this by claiming that Wolsey sought to achieve an ’unbalance of power’ that he tried always to join the stronger side, so that it would create a sufficient imbalance for the other side to realise that fighting was pointless. He claimed that this policy has not been more apparent to observers because Wolsey was not very good at implementing it and frequently made mistakes, which he attempted to justify by p retending that his aims and methods were other than they had been. Henry had a very aggressive policy on France, until he eventually decided on trying to become the peacemaker of Europe. Henry wanted to regain the lost territory in northern France so he could be seen as a Great War lord with visions of honour and glory, but also to challenge Henry V’s title of the last great English warrior. The first sign of this aim being put into place is the first French war from 1512-1514. However the first expedition on June 1512 was a disastrous failure as Ferdinand of Aragon and Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian didn’t hold up to their end of the deal for an allied invasion. This shows Henrys naivety in foreign policy and the other European powers were using him to benefit themselves whilst sending him to his downfall. Wolsey gained his first experience of the duties and pitfalls involved in organising financing, transporting and feeding an army. Wolsey was blamed by many for the shambles that developed after the army landed in France despite the fact that he was a junior member of the Royal Council. However, Henry did not blame Wolsey and the manner in which Wolsey had conducted himself in correspondence with Ferdinand of Aragon impressed Henry. Despite this Henry personally lead an army of 25,000 across the channel and took Thà ©rouanne and Tournai in northern France and winning memorable battles such as the battle of the spurs. Wolsey was the Quarter-Master generally rather than the war minister. When a French force was defeated near Thà ©rouanne, Wolsey’s reputation as a master organiser was enhanced. The King’s growing trust in Wolsey enabled English diplomacy to shape, the guiding principle of which was to ensure that England, the least important of the three great western monarchies, was not left isolated against a Valois-Hapsburg alliance. Wolsey was the one who very effectively organised the second attempt on besieging France and made the peace agreements between the two nations in 1514, so it could be argued that the foreign policy towards the French at the time was policy’s that of Wolsey not Henry. Also in later years in the second French war 1522-25 Henry was yet again let down by his allies Charles V and Duke of Bourbon, which shows he didn’t learnt from previous experiences and is not very knowledgeable in foreign policy. Henry’s policy in France benefited him slightly by collecting a pension from the French, but is failure as it shows he can be manipulated by other powers and lost huge amounts of money on war. On a financial level the wars with France did have some bonuses one being the pensions they would receive due to the peace treaties. During Henry’s reign he managed to accumulate  £730,379 in funds from the French; however this was in no comparison to the amount spent on the wars which was  £3,545,765, so the pension was more of a consolation. D. MacCulloch quotes â€Å"Henrys demand for his pension was much more constant† which means he made sure he collected his money which shows he’s a strong king. Wolsey was unable to prevent the Emperor’s friends from persuading Henry VIII that England must take some military action against France. Francis chose to ignore the warnings he’d been given. An English army was sent to France at short notice in August 1523. In the sixteenth century, military action proved to be much less decisive than its authors had expected. Wolsey’s and Henry’s passing enthusiasm for armed intervention evaporated, and Wolsey was allowed to implement his original strategy of stalling Charles’ demands for action while he was attempted to negotiate a general peace with the French. But on February 1525, Charles secured the decisive victory that Wolsey had estimated to be so unlikely. In a battle that took place outside the walls of Pavia, in northern Italy, the unthinkable happened. Not only was the French army totally destroyed as an effective fighting force, but Francis I and most of his leading supporters were captured. This placed Charles in an overwhelmingly dominant position and Henry VIII was not slow to seek advantage of the situation. He realised that here was a rare opportunity to fulfil his intermittently held dream of securing the French crown for himself; Francis was prepared to launch fresh attacks on Charles within a year of his release. Henry had hopes of launching an attack on France while she was leaderless, but he was forced to abandon these when he was unable to raise the necessary finance. It shows that Wolsey was less enthusiastic about this, as shown by the lack of determination in making success of the ‘Amicable Grant’ which was supposed to fund for this. However Wolsey was certainly not diligent in encouraging the formation of an anti-imperial alliance (the League of Cognac) in northern Italy in 1526, with which France could associate in her efforts to reserve the verdict of Pavia. A further aim of Henry’s was to achieve everlasting honour and glory. He wanted to be remembered throughout the ages and to have a huge reputation in Europe and be among the great superpowers in Europe. He achieved historical remembrance quite easily from the many famous acts he passed; however he did bathe in a huge amount of glory and honour when the field of cloth of gold was held. This was a spectacular array of games held in Calais 1520 between Henry and Francis, it was meant to be a diplomatic meeting however no agreements were made, yet it did make Henry look good. However he failed on a lot of attempted invasions to France, but he overall succeeded in acquiring a degree of honour and glory in Europe. It seems that Henry and Francis viewed the occasion as no more than an opportunity to impress others of their wealth and international standing. The field of Cloth of Gold did nothing to advance the cause of general peace. If anything it created problems for Wolsey in convincing the rest of Europe that England was not taking sides in the already developing struggle for supremacy between Francis I and Charles V. Henry was most grateful to Wolsey for making it appear to the World that he was the equal of the two ‘super power’ rulers of Europe. Henry also managed to achieve success by maintaining links with the Netherlands. England depended on the Antwerp cloth market heavily as cloth was England biggest trading material at the time. Henry tried to maintain this link throughout, by allying with Charles V whenever he went to war, as Charles was in control of the Netherlands at the time. As years passed, Henry began to portray the image of being the peacemaker of Europe. Under the guidance of Wolsey Henry began to use the treaty of London in his own favour to try and achieve a peaceful Europe. It could be argued that Henry only resorted to this as he couldn’t achieve honour through war. However he undertook this role to try and make the country look good, cement his place at the top of the leader board in Europe and make England look bigger and more powerful than what it really was. He also used the treaty of London so he had alliance requests from Charles V and Francis I before the Hapsburg-Valois war, so he could choose which side would benefit him the most. In October 1518 the treaty was signed, with Wolsey being the organiser. England and France were the first signatories and within a few months, Spain and the Papacy also signed. It was a grandiose scheme’ intended to bind the 20 leading states of Europe to perpetual peace with one another. The plan was for all those states with an active foreign policy not only to commit themselves to non-aggression, but to promise to make war on any ruler who went against the treaty, thus making it impossible for any state to benefit from attacking another. Wolsey delivered an oration in praise of peace that was much acclaimed. This wasn’t actual topic that the Pope had organised it for, buy Wolsey changed it. This could be seen as Wolsey trying to get his own way and for his own gain, but it benefited himself, Henry and all of England. Historians have generally viewed this initiative as yet another example of Wolsey’s cynical self-interest. The public perception was that Wolsey was working to implement the Pope’s wishes because he was using the fact that he was acting as the Pope’s representative because he was Legatus a Latere. Others have maintained that he was merely seeking to satisfy his sense of his own importance by being seen to be the peacemaker (arbiter) of Europe, and to be treated as such during the extensive public celebrations that accompanied the unveiling of the treaty. Many believe that he was guilty of sacrificing national interests for personal gain. A Hapsburg-Valois conflict began when Charles was elected Holy Roman Emperor in 1519. This situation presented Henry VIII and Wolsey with both continuous opportunities and frequent challenges. Given the strategic position that England enjoyed, being able either to disrupt Charles’s communications between Spain and Netherlands or to open a new front in any attack on France, her favours were certain to be in great demand from the two major powers. Wolsey was called on to pay some of the price for his triumph of the Treaty of London. Francis I had been happy enough to receive his reward for agreeing to join the Cardinal’s ‘grand design’ but he had no intention of being constrained by its terms on conditions. Francis was determined to strengthen his position in Northern Italy by military action against Charles and his supporters. Charles called upon England another to come to his assistance to halt the aggressor. In August 1521, Wolsey travelled to Bruges in Netherlands in order to meet with Charles on the action to be taken. The agreement made with Charles was that an English army would invade France unless Francis agreed to make peace. The mere threat of English action would be sufficient to persuade France to make terms. Wolsey had experience of Francis’ stubbornness that he must have realised that a threat was likely to be insufficient. He was more than satisfied with the honour that his meeting with Charles had brought him. Henry however failed in securing his dynasty. He married his daughter Mary off to Charles V. However it failed because Mary and Charles did not have children. But, in 1514 Louis XII of France became a widower. Wolsey seized the opportunity to propose a Valois-Tudor alliance to be sealed by the offer in marriage of Mary, sister of Henry VII. With Henry’s willing consent, the marriage went ahead and the ensuring treaty gave Henry an annuity of 100,000 crowns and confirmed English possession of Tournai. The success of the negotiations had enabled Wolsey to cement his place as the King’s chief diplomat. Scarisbrick’s interpretation has not been replaced by an alternative straightforward explanation. This is because it has become more and more apparent that no coherent pattern ever existed in Wolsey’s approach to diplomacy. It is now widely accepted that there was no single guiding principle that directed his actions throughout his 15 years in power. At differing times he was motivated by selfish considerations, especially a desire to obtain more extensive or longer-lasting delegated powers from the Pope. The need to satisfy the expectations of Henry VIII to further what he considered to be national or papal interests and by an altruistic inclination to benefit mankind by creating an era of peace. It is impossible to detect if many or all of these motives were behind each decision he made. There is not enough evidence to judge the importance of these motives. So in conclusion, Wolsey’s foreign policy to a great extent, satisfied Henry’s ambitions because Wolsey did exactly what Henry wanted; even though he thought about himself a lot.

What is inflation and how can it be controlled?

What is inflation and how can it be controlled? What is inflation? There are several meaning of inflation , we will discuss two definitions of it. First, The term inflation means a process with a continual increase in the general price level. As prices go up, individuals try to protect their purchasing power and take actions which inadvertently perpetuate the inflation. For example, employees may try to protect themselves from inflation by having their wages tied to the cost of living(Livingston, 2000) . As price rise, wages are forced up, which raises production costs, which raises selling prices, and so on, in a never ending cycle. Throughout history, inflation has occurred frequently. Second, Inflation is the term used to describe a rise of average prices through the economy. It means that money is losing its value. The underlying cause is usually that too much money is available to purchase too few goods and services, or that demand in the economy is outpacing supply(What is inflation, 2010) . In general, this situation occurs when an economy is so buoyant that there are widespread shortages of labor and materials. People can charge higher prices for the same goods or services. Brief history of inflation Increases in the quantity of money or in the overall money supply (or debasement of the means of exchange) have occurred in many different societies throughout history, changing with different forms of money used. For instance, when gold was used as currency, the government could collect gold coins, melt them down, mix them with other metals such as silver, copper or lead, and reissue them at the same nominal value. By diluting the gold with other metals, the government could issue more coins without also needing to increase the amount of gold used to make them. When the cost of each coin is lowered in this way, the government profits from an increase in seignior age (Kenneth, 1996) This practice would increase the money supply but at the same time the relative value of each coin would be lowered. As the relative value of the coins becomes less, consumers would need to give more coins in exchange for the same goods and services as before. These goods and services would experience a price increase as the value of each coin is reduced (Roger, 2002). From the second half of the 15th century to the first half of the 17th, Western Europe experienced a major inflationary cycle referred to as price revolution, with prices on average rising perhaps sixfold over 150 years. It was thought that this was caused by the increase in wealth of Habsburg Spain, with a large influx of gold and silver from the New World ( Walton 1994). The spent silver, suddenly spread throughout a previously cash starved Europe, caused widespread inflation ( Walton, 1994). Demographic factors also contributed to upward pressure on prices, with European population growth after depopulation caused by the Black Death pandemic. The adoption of fiat currency (paper money) by many countries, from the 18th century onwards, made much larger variations in the supply of money possible. Since then, huge increases in the supply of paper money have taken place in a number of countries, producing hyperinflations episodes of extreme inflation rates much higher than those observed in earlier periods of commodity money (Roger, 2002). The hyperinflation suffered by the Weimar Republic of Germany is a notable example. Causes of inflation There are many reasons that can cause inflation in goods and service. Based on the quality theory of inflation and quantity theory of inflation, inflation is a result of the amount of money people will be able to use that money to buy the goods they want and the amount of money supplied and exchanged. Another reason of inflation is Demand-pull inflation which means that the economy actual demands more goods and services than available. This shortage of supply enables sellers to raise prices until an equilibrium is put in place between supply and demand (inflation, 2010). For example, low employment rates against increase in demand. Secondly, The cost-push inflation also known as supply shock inflation( inflation, 2010). This Can take place when goods become harder to get the price increases as a result, people try to increase the amount of money they earn to maintain the change in price. Inflation can be made by the circulation of increase in the wages of employees and the increase in the producers cost which will lower the value of the money (Stiqall R. March 29, 2010). Effects  of Inflation The most immediate effects of inflation are the decreased purchasing power of the dollar and its depreciation. A second destabilizing effect is that inflation can cause consumers and investors to change their speeding habits. When inflation occurs, people tend to spend less meaning that factories have to lay off workers because of a decline in orders. A third destabilizing effect of inflation is that some people choose to speculate heavily in an attempt to take advantage of the higher price level. Because some of the purchases are high-risk investments, spending is diverted from the normal channels and some structural unemployment may take place. Finally, inflation alters the distribution of income. Lenders are generally hurt more than borrowers during long inflationary periods which means that loans made earlier are repaid later in inflated dollars (the effect of inflation on your money, March 19, 2009). Measuring inflation It is necessary to have some kind of an accurate measure of the increase in the price level. The most widely used statistic to measure inflation is known as the consumer price index (CPI). Other measurement is Producer Price Indexes (PPI), Commodity price indices and Core price indices. Consumer Price Index (CPI) A measure of price changes in consumer goods and services such as gasoline, food, clothing and automobiles. The CPI measures price change from the perspective of the purchaser. U.S. CPI data can be found at the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The three main CPI series are: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ CPI for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Chained CPI for All Urban Consumers (C-CPI-U) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ CPI for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) According to (Dubai Statistics Center, 2010) Consumer Price Index was 114.63 in the first half of 2009, and in the first half 2010 it was 115.36. The formula for calculating the annual percentage rate inflation in the CPI is, 115.36 114.63 ÃÆ'- 100 à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ = 0.64 à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 114.63 Producer Price Indexes (PPI) Families of indexes that measure the average change over time in selling prices by domestic producers of goods and services. PPIs measure price change from the perspective of the seller. U.S. PPI data can be found at the Bureau of Labor Statistics. For instance, (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2010) stated that the U.S Monthly percent changes in the Producer Price Index for Finished Goods which is finished food, finished energy and finished core for October 2009 October 2010 is shown in chart 1 However, the Monthly percent changes in the Producer Price Index for Intermediate Goods which is intermediate food, intermediate energy and intermediate, for October 2009 October 2010 is shown in chart 2 Commodity price indices Index or average, which may be weighted, of selected commodity prices, intended to be representative of the markets in general or a specific subset of commodities, e.g., grains or livestock. Core price indices A measure of inflation that excludes certain items  that face volatile price movements.  Core inflation eliminates products that can  have temporary price shocks because  these shocks can diverge from the overall trend of inflation and  give a false  measure of inflation. Core inflation is most often calculated by taking the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and excluding certain items from the index,  usually energy and food products. Core inflation is thought to be an indicator of underlying long-term  inflation.   The challenge of measuring inflation There is no internationally agreed standard methodology of measuring inflation since such indices are generally used for national purposes, such as wage arrangements and price stabilization policies, and are frequently subject to heated discussions and social and political negotiations. Countries measure their rate of inflation in different ways, and include different components. This can make it problematic to make international comparisons. For instance, the European HICP differs from the US CPI in two major respects. First, the HICP includes the rural population. Second, and probably more importantly, the HICP excludes owner-occupied housing, mainly because the methods used to measure price changes for this component are controversial and difficult to calculate. Besides, in using CPI the purchasing habits of different people will vary greatly. For example, the purchasing of a family with children will be very different from that of an elderly couple or a single person with no chil dren. And this may not be an accurate reflection for a particular area. Furthermore, if the national average is used as the basis for wage negotiations or pension changes, then these might not accurately reflect the price changes for a particular group. Errors in collecting data could be very important because it reflects the accuracy of the results. For instance, it would be difficult to obtain the prices of all the goods bought by the household so it is necessary to take a sample item and measure it. Thus, sampling is likely to lead to some degree of inaccuracy. (Donald G. Jerome P. Ted G., 2004) How to Control Inflation Economists offer several ways to control or limit inflation.   The methods are primarily through setting monetary policy and price controls, though there are some less popular theories on stopping inflation. Those who suggest using monetary policy to stop inflation place an emphasis on the role of the central bank, like the U.S. Federal Reserve System, in setting that policy.   The Federal Reserve can use traditional methods such as setting high interest rates, using unemployment and declining production to slow or stop rising prices.  Ã‚   Even among those that believe monetary policy should be used to stop inflation, various theories abound as to how the policy should be wielded (Federal, 2010).   For instance, those who subscribe to Neo-Classical monetary theory want to see the money supply decreased, while Neo-Keynesians would rather reduce the overall demand through fiscal policy like higher taxes or lower government spending.   Neo-Keynesians focus on monetary policys role, especially as it relates to basic commodities inflation as outlined by Robert Solow.   Finally, supply-side economists believe that the exchange rate needs to be fixed so that the exchange rate is tied to a reference currency (gold, for instance).   They also believe that, in a floating currency regime, that there can be a reduction in marginal tax rates to that capital formation is promoted. Yet there is even a philosophical difference between those running the various central banks.   For instance, at the European Central Bank, the target is to control inflation when it gets too high rather than using symmetrical inflation as other central banks do.   The result is that the European Central Bank has come under great criticism for increasingly high unemployment rates. While some believe that changing monetary policy is the way to control or stop inflation, a few others subscribe to the idea that controlling prices is the best method.   Also, price supports are used to set minimum prices.   The price supports help to prevent deflation and to allow for the continued production of certain goods.   However, not many economists subscribe to the idea of using price controls as a way to control inflation, as there are many counterproductive effects. Using price controls to stop or control inflation means that shortages are created.   When shortages happen, the quality of production decreases and black market operations increase.   Also, price controls only work as long as they are in place, and when they are removed inflation often moves at an accelerated rate.  Ã‚   The exception to the criticisms of price controls is during times of war, when shortages are bound to happen anyhow.   The government needs to borrow more money at lower rates during wartime, and profiteering needs to be discouraged.   In World War II, price controls were used effectively both during and after the war to control inflation.   Yet sometimes the wartime price controls are continued too long after the end of the war, so people will over-consume the things that have price controls imposed.  Ã‚   A common example of price controls is rent controlled buildings.   These rent-controlled areas tend to remain so for decades, which allows owners to control the new building rate.   It maintains capital parity, and since inflation lowers the burden of a fixed rental price, allows renters to gain a net reduction in rental costs.  Ã‚   However, sometimes price controls do make a recession more efficient.   The recession and prices controls both complement one another, because the recession prevents the distortion of high demand while price controls lower the need to increase unemployment. The solution? In my opinion, there is no easy, painless solution. Those who bought houses they couldnt afford will lose those houses. The banks who end up with those houses will either go under (forcing the government to print money to cover the deposits lost), or will get bailed out (Bear Sterns). In about 3 or 4 years, the loans made at the peak will be done resetting, those homes that cannot be afforded will be lost, and stability will slowly return. The only thing that will muck up that return to stability is if we spend a lot of money helping people to stay in houses they cannot afford. If we really try to help them, they will end up bleeding the system until they cant bleed it any more, then they will lose their house. If we try to bail them out, we will ease the pain, but prolong the disease.

Dream :: essays research papers

DREAMS Theories attempting to explain the origin and functions of REM sleep include: (1) that REM sleep provides stimulation for the development of the brain; (2) that it performs a chemical restoration function, since during REM dreaming neuro-protein synthesis occurs along with the restoration of other depleted brain chemicals; (3) that it provides oculomotor (eye movement) coordination, since during non-REM sleep the eyes move independently of each other; (4) that it provides a vigilance function, since REM sleep (stage I) is characterized by a level of consciousness close to the awakened state; (5) in a more recent and controversial theory, REM dreaming performs a neurological erasure function, eliminating extraneous information build-up in the memory system; and (6) that, in a more cognitive psychological explanation, REM dreaming enhances memory storage and reorganization. Contrary to popular belief, dreaming is not caused by eating certain foods before bedtime, nor by environmental stimuli during sleeping. Dreaming is caused by internal biological process. Some researchers have proposed the activation-synthesis hypothesis. Their neurological research indicates that large brain cells in the primitive brain stem spontaneously fire about every 90 minutes, sending random stimuli to cortical areas of the BRAIN. As a consequence, memory, sensory, muscle-control, and cognitive areas of the brain are randomly stimulated, resulting in the higher cortical brain attempting to make some sense of it. This, according to the research, gives rise to the experience of a dream. Now, as in the past, the most significant controversy centers on the question of whether dreams have intentional, or actual personal, meaning. Many psychotherapists maintain that while the neurological impulses from the brain stem may activate the dreaming process, the content or meaningful representations in dreams are caused by nonconscious needs, wishes, desires, and everyday concerns of the dreamer. Thus, such psychotherapists subscribe to the phenomenological-clinical, or "top-down," explanation, which holds that dreams are intentionally meaningful messages from the unconscious. The neurological, or "bottom-up," explanation maintains that dreams have no intentional meaning. In between these two positions is an approach called content analysis. Content analysis simply describes and classifies the various representations in dreams, such as people, houses, cars, trees, animals, and color, though no deep interpretation is attributed to the content. Differences in content have been discovered between the dreams of males and females, and between dreams and occurring in different developmental stages of life. What these differences mean is under investigation. Some recent research seems to indicate that dream content reflects problems that the dreamer experiences in life, and that the function of such dreams is to facilitate the emotional resolution of the problems.

In Civil Peace, How Does War Affect Society Essay

In human history, especially in the ninetieth century and the twentieth century, there were many civil wars in different countries because of political, economic, religious, ethnic, and cultural conflicts, for example, the American Civil War between the United States and several southern slaves states from 1861 to 1865; the Korean Civil War between the Republic of Korea and Democratic people Republic of Korea from 1950 to 1953; the Chinese Civil War between the Republic of China and the Communist Party of China from 1927 to 1950, and the Nigeria Civil War between the Hausas Party and the Igbo Party from 1967 to 1970. Civil wars cause serious poverty and starvation for the people, kill tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians, and bring tragedies to many families. For instance, in the Korean Civil war, more than one million soldiers and civilians were killed, including over 40,000 American soldiers, 511,493 South Korean soldiers and civilians, about 400,000 North Koreans, and over 148,000 Chinese soldiers. Therefore, civil wars affect societies severely. In â€Å"Civil Peace†, the war causes terrible casualties of civilians and soldiers, results in fearful society instability, and destroys tremendous infrastructures and houses. In human history, especially in the ninetieth century and the twentieth century, there were many civil wars in different countries because of political, economic, religious, ethnic, and cultural conflicts, for example, the American Civil War between the United States and several southern slaves states from 1861 to 1865;[1] the Korean Civil War between the Republic of Korea and Democratic people Republic of Korea from 1950 to 1953;[2] the Chinese Civil War between the Republic of China and the Communist Party of China from 1927 to 1950, and the Nigeria Civil War between the Hausas Party and the Igbo Party from 1967 to 1970. 3] Civil wars cause serious poverty and starvation for the people, kill tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians, and bring tragedies to many families. For instance, in the Korean Civil war, more than one million soldiers and civilians were killed, including over 40,000 American soldiers, 511,493 South Korean soldiers and civilians, about 400,000 North Koreans, and over 148,000 Chinese soldiers. [4] Therefore, civil wars affect societies severely. In â€Å"Civil Peace†, the war causes terrible casualties of civilians and soldiers, results in fearful society instability, and destroys tremendous infrastructures and houses. First, most Nigerian civilians live in hunger and malnutrition, but more miserably, tens of thousands soldiers and civilians are killed during the devastating civil war. It is estimated that about 180,000 soldiers and civilians were battle deaths and non-battle deaths. [5] Contrary to Jonathan’s luckiness, such as â€Å"He had come out of war with five inestimable blessing-his head, his wife Maria’s head and the heads of three out of their four children†(Achebe 20), many parents lost all of their children and many other children lost their parents. They all live in extreme grief and sorrow of losing their family members. Furthermore, those children whose parents are dead can hardly survive in the extreme postwar poverty. A lot of people suffer life poverty and spiritual grief. Most important, civil war brings tragedies to many families. These tragedies will affect survivors forever. Secondly, civil war not only results in lots of corporations being closed down and many employees being unemployed, but also brings social instability. For example, most of Jonathan’s fellow ex-miners cannot find jobs. They cook meals that they scrounge together in Bournvita tins. Moreover, because a large number civilian population lacks food and money and they are always in starvation; some civilians are forced to make a living through robbery. These robbers bring people serious fear and pain. In â€Å"Civil Peace†, after Jonathan brings his ex-gratia award back home, a gang of robbers comes and threatens that they will break into the house at night if he doesn’t give them one hundred pounds. â€Å"Jonathan and his family were now completely paralyzed by terror. Maria and the children sobbed inaudibly like lost souls. Jonathan groaned continuously† (Achebe 23). At last, the thieves rob Jonathan twenty pounds. Therefore, the Civil War causes serious social instability and brings civilians more sorrows. Thirdly, in addition to life hardships and spiritual grieves, tremendous infrastructures and houses are destroyed in the war. Many people become destitute and homeless. For example, when Jonathan comes back Enugu, he is astonished to find that â€Å"Only two houses away a huge concrete edifice some wealthy contractor had put up just before the war was a mountain of rubble† (Achebe 22). Some ex-miners are sleeping out of the offices because their houses are ruined in civil war. It is well known that roads, bridges, railways, and rban water and electricity facilities are always heavily destroyed during wars. Civilians suffer starvations during the days and endure cold during the nights because their houses are damaged. Indeed, it is inconceivable how tough conditions people live in during the war. Jonathan is an extra-ordinarily lucky man, but most civilians’ lives are tragic. Without food, houses, money, families and jobs, many people almost collapse into near-madness. Therefore, civil war results in numerous houses and infrastructures ruined. In addition, civil war will severely block postwar national economic development. The governments need to invest lots of money to rebuild ruined national infrastructures. â€Å"Nothing puzzles God† says Jonathan (Achebe 25), but civil wars puzzle everyone. Most Nigeria civilians undergo poverty, homelessness, cold and sadness. Civil wars not only bring extreme poverty and starvation, but also cause severe casualties of soldiers and civilians. Moreover, numerous houses and facilities are terribly ruined. In addition, a lot of factories and corporations are forced to close down. Above all, the civil war contributes to severe social instability, brings families tragedies, and causes people deep sorrows.

Cardiff Bay Redevelopment

Cardiff Bay Development Research Cardiff Bay is Europe's largest waterfront development. Cardiff Docks as it was then called was the world's largest coal exporting port. It is also Europe's largest waterfront development and it has a wealth of leisure activities available both on and off the water. Cardiff bay has been turned into a vast freshwater lake with the introduction of a barrage. A number of boat tours operate from Mermaid Quay, which allow you to gain an understanding of the history and fauna of this exciting area.A new water taxi service is available which operates throughout the year from the Bay to the city centre and Penarth. Cardiff Bay is home to a number of attractions such as Techniquest Science Discovery Centre – ideal for all the family, Craft in the Bay, The Welsh Assembly at the Pierhead, Butetown History and Arts Centre, Goleulong 2000 Lightship, the Norwegian Church Arts Centre and the brand new Wales Millennium Centre, a stunning and international arts centre.The Atlantic Wharf Leisure Village provides further options for family entertainment. The harbour at Cardiff Bay experiences one of the world’s greatest tidal ranges up to 14m. This has meant that at low tide, it has been inaccessible for up to 14 hours a day. The new barrage will eliminate the effect of the tide, which has acted as an inhibitor to development, releasing the potential of the capital city's greatest asset – its waterfront. The construction of the barrage is one of the largest engineering projects in Europe.Completed in 1999, it has created a 500 acre freshwater lake with 8 miles of waterfront and it is hoped it will stimulate the future development of the Bay as a tourist and leisure destination. The Cardiff Bay Development Corporation was set up in April 1987 to regenerate the 1,100 hectares of old derelict docklands of Cardiff and Penarth. It was part of the British Governments Urban Development Programme to regenerate particularly deprived an d run-down areas of British inner cities.The mission statement for the regeneration project, set by the then Welsh Secretary of State, Nicholas Edwards was: – To put Cardiff on the International map as a superlative maritime city which will stand comparison with any such city in the world, thereby enhancing the image and economic well-being of Cardiff and Wales as a whole The five main aims and objectives identified for the regeneration project were: – To promote development and provide a superb environment in which people will want to live, work and play. To re-unite the City of Cardiff with its waterfront.

Colonial north carolina essays

Colonial north carolina essays This three-page graduate paper examines and analyzes the colonial history of North Carolina and provides a commentary on the colonial records of the colony. The author notes that North Carolinas colonial records provide a fascinating primary source for scholars and students interested in studying the early history of North Carolina. These records reveal in much greater detail than most sources the social, political, religious, and economic events that shaped North Carolina history, and shed much needed light on North Carolinas long colonial era. As has been the case in almost every geographic region settled by different groups of people traveling from distant lands in search of freedom and opportunity, the early colonial settlers of North Carolina struggled with issues of government, taxation, and religion. Colonial records reveal that opinions among them varied as to what religious beliefs were correct, what form of worship should be practiced, and what kind of government would be the most conducive to promoting the social, religious, economic, and political welfare of the colonists. From perusing North Carolinas colonial records, I noted with interest that in 1524, Giovanni da Verrazonoa became the first European to explore North Carolina, but my greatest interest was in the first effort made by the English to establish a colony in Roanoke. One hundred sixteen men, women, and children settled on Roanoke Island, but within three years they had vanished, leaving only a clue in the form of the word Croatoan carved into a tree. Solving the Roanoke mystery is beyond the scope of this paper, but researching the North Carolina Colonial Records is the best course to pursue for those interested in examining the sequence of events that led to this tragedy. While Roanoke remains a mystery, it can be established ...

General Will in Rousseau essays

General Will in Rousseau essays The Social Contract Rousseau puts forth the structure of an ideal political society, the legislature and laws of which revolve around a notion he terms the general will. In his view, the general will is the solution to the fundamental problem of politics: that of having citizens equate their wants with what is best for the society as a whole. Therefore, the general will is not the will of all citizens but the ideal will of all citizens who are ideally committed, peaceful and endowed with civic virtue. A public whose passions have been channelled into patriotism and social motivation will theoretically act for the good of the society as a whole even if they are acting only on behalf of themselves. The introduction of a legislating body that actively involves all citizens and acts on the grounds of the general will ensures peace, the protection of the community and effectively ends rule by brute force that is present in pre-political and corrupt society. The general will can only exist in a community that has a common social interest. In order to generate such a society Rousseau lays down certain starting conditions in The Social Contract that he believes will encourage unity and check any emerging social inequality. To begin with the society must not be so large as would make it hard to control without the use of an extensive and confusing bureaucracy. All citizens must be in the possession of private property so that they are actively sharing in the wealth (and therefore the fate) of the state. Citizens should be roughly equal in terms of wealth and possessions. Sectional interest groups are not allowed to form as Rousseau sees their existence as a breeding ground for dissenters. After these general guidelines are in place Rousseau introduces a state education and a state religion that will serve to maintain the cohesiveness established by the institution of the preceding conditions. These conditions create common int...

Bull Rider Summary

Layne and his mom have an argument about Layne joining the bull riding competition, because her mom didn’t want him to join in bull riding because of her husband who died in a bull riding competition and she don’t want that to happened to Layne, while Layne really wants to join bull riding because his dad has a dream of being a champion on bull riding competition and Layne wants to fulfill that dream for him. Questions: (Circle the best answer) 1) Why does Layne`s mom don`t want him to join the rodeo? a. Layne’s mom was afraid to lose him like his dad who died in a rodeo. b. Layne didn’t eat his vegetables. 2) What is their argument about? a. Layne’s wants a new ipad. b. Layne’s joining the bull riding competition 3) Why Layne wants to be a bull rider? a. For the girls who scream for his name when his bull riding. b. To fulfill his dad dreams. Chapter 2 Vocabulary Words: Trading The action of engaging in trade. Doubtful Feeling uncertain about something. Rodeo An exhibition or contest in which cowboys show their skill at riding broncos, roping calves, wrestling steers, etc. Corral A pen for livestock, esp. cattle or horses, on a farm or ranch. Arena A level area surrounded by seats for spectators, in which sports, entertainments, and other public events are held. Contractor A person or company that undertakes a contract to provide materials or labor to perform a service or do a job. Chute A sloping channel or slide for conveying things to a lower level Chute Fighter A rough stock animal that will not stand still and tries to fight the cowboy before he leaves the chute. Hornets A large stinging wasp that typically nests in hollow trees Summary: Terror and Layne goes to Kelvins arena where they meet Jana. Jana is Jack Kelvin’s daughter. Layne goes every time to Jana when her parents are not in the ranch to have some bull riding practice. When Layne was about to practice bull riding he met Rhino the brahma bull who has only one horn, Jana don’t want to give Rhino to Layne to ride on but Layne really wants to ride Rhino because he wants to challenge his skills to get better and Rhino was the perfect bull for it so Jana let him ride Rhino. While Layne was riding on Rhino he saw a man with red shirt. Question: (True or False) 1) Jana is Jack Kelvin’s daughter. TF 2) Jana wants Layne to ride Rhino. TF 3) Layne saw a man with black shirt while he was riding Rhino. TF Chapter 3 Vocabulary Words: Glimpse A momentary or partial view. Mauled Wound by scratching or tearing. Jackknife A knife with a folding blade. Blame Assign responsibility for a fault or wrong Stunned Knock unconscious or into a dazed or semiconscious state. Scrambling Move hurriedly or clumsily from or into a particular place or position. Uncurled Straighten or cause to straighten from a curled position. Gallop A very fast pace of running or moving. Scuff Scrape or brush the surface of against something. Muttered Say something in a low or barely audible voice, esp. in dissatisfaction or irritation. Summary: Layne fell off from Rhino, Layne was scrambling on his feet then Rhino get back at him and hit him then Layne has trying to get out of there as fast as he can but it was too late Rhino`s head slammed him back down to the ground. Then Terror and Jana help him out, Terror distract Rhino from getting back to Layne and Jana lock Rhino to his cage. Then the guy with the red shirt came to them it was Chase Kincaid Jana`s Grandfather. Chase and Layne have a conversation about Layne`s dad Jeff McQueen. Then Chase saw Layne`s wound and he wrap his wound using a handkerchief and Layne`s strip shirt. Question: (Fill in the blanks) 1) Layne’s father is ____________. 2) ________ And ________ are two things Chase used to cover Layne’s wound. 3) _______ distract Rhino from getting back to Layne. Chapter 4 Vocabulary Words: Blab Reveal secrets by indiscreet talk. Stumbling rip or momentarily lose ones balance. Steam Be or become extremely agitated or angry. Crumpled Become bent, crooked, or creased. Suspicious Having or showing a cautious distrust of someone or something. Stern Serious and unrelenting, esp. n the assertion of authority and exercise of discipline. Crease A line or ridge produced on paper or cloth by folding, pressing, or crushing it. Disgusted Cause to feel revulsion or profound disapproval. Ruined Cause great and usually irreparable damage or harm to have a disastrous effect on. Relief The alleviation of pain, discomfort, or distress Crumpled Becom e bent, crooked, or creased. Summary: Layne and Terror went back home and the next morning Layne’s mom goes to his room to pick up his dirty clothes he was very worried about what will be the reaction of his mom if she knows about what he did. His mom saw his shirt that has blood and she thought Layne got the blood on his shirt on his rugby practice then Layne was relief of his worries that his mom going to know about what he did. Question: (Fill in the blanks) 1) _____ is the sport Layne in the school. 2) To pick up Layne’s dirty ______ is the reason why his mom goes to his room. 3) Layne is worried about his _____ if she knows about what he did. Chapter 5 Vocabulary Words: Strolling Walk in a leisurely way. Wring Obtain (something) with difficulty or effort. Ambush A surprise attack by people lying in wait in a concealed position. Streaks A continuous period of specified success or luck. Static Lacking in movement, action, or change, esp. in a way viewed as undesirable or uninteresting. Limp Walk with difficulty, typically because of a damaged or stiff leg or foot. Sheepishly like or suggestive of a sheep in docility or stupidity or meekness or timidity. Scornful Feeling or expressing contempt or derision. Aces A person who excels at a particular sport or other activity. Gruffly If you describe someone as gruff, you mean that they seem rather unfriendly or bad-tempered. Summary: Layne talks about what he do in school and he was so nervous to go home, afraid of maybe his mom knows that he ride a bull and got hurt. Then he went home his mom was there but she has still no Idea about what he did so everything was all right. Then terror told him that Chase wants him to in the arena, so Layne and Terror go there and at first Layne thought that Chase will get his bull rope and then chase ordered Terror and Jana to get a couple of young bulls so they did. Then Chase told Layne that he were going to teach Layne to ride bulls as long as he can keep it a secret and Layne was so happy about it because his dad once told him that Chase was the best bull rider he ever known. Layne ask Chase Why will he teach him and Chase told him that he remember how tough being a kid that you want to do something so bad, but nobody thinks you’re old enough to handle it. Question: (True of False) 1) Layne’s mom has no idea about him riding a bull. TF 2) Chase called Layne to have a pizza in the arena. TF 3) Layne’s is nervous to go home because of his mom. TF Chapter 6 Vocabulary Words: Suddenly Quickly and unexpectedly. Suicide The action of killing oneself intentionally. Plunged Jump or dive quickly and energetically. Demanded Ask authoritatively or brusquely. Disposition A persons inherent qualities of mind and character. Supposed Generally assumed or believed to be the case, but not necessarily so. Argue Exchange or express diverging or opposite views, typically in a heated or angry way. Rhythm A persons natural feeling for such arrangement. Trudged Walk slowly and with heavy steps, typically because of exhaustion or harsh conditions. Cowboy A man, typically one on horseback, who herds and tends cattle, esp. in the western US and as represented in westerns and novels. Summary: Chase started to teach Layne how to ride a bull. But he noticed that Layne is holding his bull rope wrong and dangerously. Layne’s rope holding is called the suicide wrap it was thought to him by his dad. And Chase used this Idea to get on Layne’s head and make him mad. Layne ride the bull and he got no rhythm on what he was doing and hit the ground hard. Chase says he has no concentration on his riding and he was just mad about him. Then Layne fought back at him and he says he can just ride on his way. Then Chase walk away and Layne caught him back and ask if he try it again on his way and they continue on bull riding. Question: (Circle the best answer) 1) Chase teaches Layne __________. a. To drive a car. b. Ride a bull. 2) Layne’s style of holding a bull rope is ________. a. Killer wrap. b. Suicide wrap 3) Layne ride the bull and his got no _______. a. Rhythm. b. Hat. Chapter 7 Vocabulary Words: Blur Make or become unclear or less distinct. Grumping Act in a sulky, grumbling manner. Halfheartedly without enthusiasm or interest. Squawked Make a loud, harsh noise. Gleam Shine brightly, esp. with reflected light. Squealing Make such a cry or noise. Outburst A sudden release of strong emotion. Coast Act or make progress without making much effort. Growling Make a low guttural sound of hostility in the throat. Savages A member of a people regarded as primitive and uncivilized. Summary: Layne talks about the past few weeks of his bull riding practise and how he’s doing well. Layne’s mom has an announcement that their cousin Becky is getting married at July third which is the same date of the rodeo that Layne entered. Three days later Jana phoned him to go to the arena to get some practise but he must hurry because they don’t know if when Jana’s parents will be back. When Layne arrives at the arena the chute has already a bull and it was Rhino it’s time for their rematch at first Layne is excited about it but after a few seconds when he was on the back of Rhino he felt like he was afraid and shaky then right before Chase open the Chute Jana stop them because Jana’s parents arrive then Chase bring Rhino back to his coral with other bulls Chase said the Layne can Just try it next time. Question: (True of False) 1) Layne is doing well on his bull riding practise. TF 2) Layne’s cousin Charley is getting married. TF 3) Layne and Rhino have their rematch. TF Chapter 8 Vocabulary Words: Dawned Come into existence. Reluctantly Unwilling and hesitant; disinclined Paced Walk at a steady and consistent speed, esp. back and forth and as an expression of ones anxiety or annoyance. Roared Make a loud, deep, prolonged sound. Sputtered Make a series of soft explosive sounds, typically when being heated or as a symptom of a fault. Groan Make a deep inarticulate sound in response to pain or despair. Pleasant Giving a sense of happy satisfaction or enjoyment. Eased Make (something unpleasant, painful, or intense) less serious or severe. Lurch An abrupt uncontrolled movement, esp. an unsteady tilt or roll. Struggle Make forceful or violent efforts to get free of restraint or constriction. Summary: July 3 is finally arrive Layne’s mom was about to leave and go to Edmonton for her niece wedding and before she leave she gave $50 for Layne to go to the rodeo. Layne was guilty not to tell her mom that he were going to ride a bull for the rodeo but he knows her mom is going to be really mad at her so he did not tell her mom. As Layne and Terror was about to leave Terror says that load Rambo to the trailer because she also entered for barrel racing at first Layne was mad at Terror because she don’t tell to their mom that she will enter the barrel race but after he thought about it he realized that he done the same thing so they load Rambo at the trailer but the trailer tire was flat. So they load him at the back of the track. When they were driving Layne was very careful not to take a sharp turn for Rambo then he noticed Rick Barker from his school that Rick and his friends were driving recklessly and above over the designated speed limit so Layne pull over and let them pass by but Rambo fell of the track and got hurt they call the vet to look at Rambo the vet says that Rambo should take bake home and give a plenty of rest. When they are home their mom called them Layne was so nervous that he will get in trouble for what happened if their mom’s will find out what to them so he lied that everything is fine and their mom told them that she will stay at Edmonton for the night because their aunt Bonnie says so. After their conversation Jana and Chase got into their house asking what happened to them and why they didn’t show up for the rodeo. Layne talks to Layne how sorry he was because all the effort of Chase of getting him ready for the rodeo is all waste but Chase laugh because he talks to the arena director and he owned him a favor that Layne’s ride is moved into tomorrow’s go-round and Layne becomes very Happy about it and he accept it. Question: (Fill in the blanks) 1) Layne’s mom goes to _____________ for her niece wedding. 2) Rambo fell of the truck and got ______. 3) Layne and Terror called the _________ to see how Rambo’s condition. Chapter 9 Vocabulary Words: Unwind Relax after a period of work or tension. Cursing Be afflicted with Eager Wanting to do or have something very much. Clenched Close into a tight ball, esp. when feeling extreme anger. Bronc Bronc riding, either saddle bronc or bareback bronc competition is a rodeo event that involves a rodeo participant riding on a horse (sometimes called a bronc or bronco), that attempts to throw or buck off the rider. Swerved Change or cause to change direction abruptly Wince Give a slight involuntary grimace or shrinking movement of the body out of or in anticipation of pain or distress. Freaked React or behave in a wild and irrational way, typically because of the effects of extreme emotion, mental illness, or drugs. Hauled Pull or drag with effort or force. Smearing Spread (a greasy, oily, or sticky substance) over something. Summary: Layne got to the rodeo ground he waits an hour before he could even find out which bull he drawn he got in the rodeo secretary Mrs. Henry and ask If he can find out which bull will he riding and paid his entry fee. And he got Rhino to be the bull to ride on there are 3 bull riders before him first one is Jason Thorne he was a good bull rider he finished his ride with 8 seconds and have 85 points, the second rider is Mark Greely he got fell off the bull he was riding really fast, third rider is Rusty Barnett and after the announcer called Rusty to start the ride Chase called Layne to get ready and get on the back on Rhino because his riding next. As Layne is sitting on the back of rhino he saw Rusty Barnett got hurt and he should have just let go of the bull but he can’t because Rusty is doing he suicide wrap he can’t get out his hand out of the rope so the clown on the arena distract the bull and help Rusty to get out. While Layne is Watching Rusty he remembered his dad because what happened to Rust it’s almost the same thing that happened to his dad. After Rusty`s ride Layne is next the announcer get the crowd to get calm for what they have seen about Rusty. Then while the announcer was introducing Layne Chase is yelling at him that to get off Rhino and he`s not going to ride but Layne ignore him and looked to the gate man and yelled Outside then the gate opened and Rhino has been unleashed to the chute he jump and spin left and right Layne manage to get still on Rhino but he fell down on the ground the Layne got back off to Rhino after the clowns got Rhino Layne saw his mother and they have a conversation then his mom forgive him for what he did and accept that Layne is a bull rider then his mom ugged him and the next thing he knew is there is Jana hugged him and give him a kiss then Terror was charging up for him he thought Terror will hug him too but instead Terror just punched him in the arm and says not bad and he looked over the fence to see Chase and he was just standing there and winked at Layne. THE END Question: (True or False) 1) Layne arrives to early at the arena. TF 2) Layne remember his dad while watching Rusty Barnett rid e. TF 3) Layne’s mom, Jana and Terror hugged him after his ride. TF Characters Layne McQueen Main Character of the story, Teen age boy who wants to follow the footsteps of his father Jeff McQueen to be a bull rider and join the rodeo and win the championship. Tara Terror McQueen Layne`s sister who help him to archive his goal. Jana Kelvin – Daughter of Jack Kelvin who owns the arena where Layne is always sneaking in to practice bull riding. Chase Kincaid – Jana`s grandfather and Trained Layne on Bull riding. Becky – Layne`s cousin. Bonnie – Layne`s aunt. Rick Barker – Layne`s classmate. Mr. Bowlen – Layne`s rugby Couch. Mrs. Henry – Rodeo secretary.

Preparing for and Taking Standardized Tests Research Paper

Preparing for and Taking Standardized Tests - Research Paper Example Students can have access to a wide array of practice tests before actually appearing in the test. In the past, students had to go to academies in addition to their regular schools in order to prepare for the tests. Adjusting this extra work in an already busy schedule was quite of a challenge for many hard working students. Academies consumed a lot of their time as a result of which, students lagged behind in their regular home work. Even then, the quality of education would not be up to the mark because most of the energy was consumed in adjusting new activities into the schedule and then adjusting with it. In addition to that, academies popular for their history of good results used to charge the willing students quite a lot of fees which many students could not afford. Today, students can have free access to past tests, sample papers, preparing tips and test taking strategies. Internet makes a holistic approach to enhance the abilities of students from all aspects so that they bec ome adequately equipped with the required skills before appearing in the exam. This not only saves students’ time, but also enables them to have quick access to the required information. The best thing about preparing for the standardized tests from the internet is that after going through the sample tests, a student gains a preliminary idea of the areas in which he/she is weak. This helps the student place particular emphasis upon the skill enhancement in that particular area. Many online test preparation sites recommend students to go through the sample tests once before the commencement of preparation, and the second time, after they think they have prepared sufficiently. The second test is no less useful than the first one because it provides the students with an insight into their skills and the extent to which they are really prepared for the standardized test next day. In the past, children liked going to academies not just for preparation, but also with a view to lear ning strategies and tips that would help them gain maximum marks in the minimal time. Today, the same purpose is served by internet. In fact, internet provides students with a much greater variety of strategies and tips all of which have been derived from the experience of past test takers. Although preparation of the standardized tests depends to much an extent, upon the individualistic preparation of a student, though teachers also have a special role to play in it. In order to ensure that all students are able to pass the standardized tests, it is imperative that teachers take out time from the regular classes to get the students prepared for the tests. According to Hollingworth (2007 cited in Tompkins, 2011) teachers can achieve this without compromising upon the regular instructional program in five ways discussed below: 1. Teachers should make sure that the curriculum standards imposed by their state are consistent with their program and adjust the material according to the re quirements of the test. 2. Teachers should establish milestones with students and should regularly supervise their progress through informal assessments. 3. Teachers should involve students in authentic activities of literacy in order to make them potential writers and readers. 4. Teachers should narrate the test’s purpose to the students and discuss the way the results will impact their future, but should not increase the students’

Should you let your kids drink at home Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Should you let your kids drink at home - Essay Example Indeed the article has emphasized upon how supervised drinking leads the way within such discussions because it allows the parents to know what their young ones are doing and when. There is the important metaphor of being aware about each and every happening related to them that seems to satisfy the parents in entirety. Hence this article is a manifestation of how drinking has been a bane all these years yet somehow it can be triggered to achieve a better outcome in the end. I personally believe this article touches upon quite a few important points which are significant to be highlighted in this day and age. Even though parents would have a problem discussing such matters with their children – the fact of the matter remains entrenched in the belief that children have to be told about the positive and negative sides of drinking by their parents since they are the closest to them. I also opine that this article emphasizes upon the fact that in order to be taken on as ‘cool’ parents, some of these would go the extra mile and do something which other conventional parents would not even get into. They cannot afford to let their young ones go haywire and hence the need to be at their defensive in such a different way. Some would see this as a drastic step but what they might forget is the understanding that these parents are taking such measures to make sure that their young ones actually remain on track. They would allow their children t o drink yet in a measured way, which then again is a step in the right direction (Gillis, 2009). What I have understood from this article is the fact that parents have started to become more considerate towards their children as far as allowing drinking regimes are concerned. It is because perhaps they have come closer to their children which indeed is a good omen for the families at

Government 2301 Judicial Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

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'Henry Ford's $5 workday' Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

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The Project to Open a New Tesco Superstore Case Study

The Project to Open a New Tesco Superstore - Case Study Example In order to conduct stakeholder analysis for opening new Tesco superstore, the researcher will use Mendelow’s (1981) Matrix. For sake simplicity and preciseness, UK based operation of Tesco superstore will be used as reference point. UK based customers and local society members who will buy food items and grocery items from Tesco superstore. These stakeholders will show interest in the project because opening a new store will increase their convenience for shopping. Their motivation to support the project will be directed by the desire to shop quality food items, chance to get associated with the Tesco brand name etc. Project workers, Suppliers of raw material. These stakeholders will show interest in the project for monetary interest, opportunity to get financial benefit by signing the long-term contract with the company. Their motivation to support the project will be directed by business benefits, remuneration, and higher supply margin. Top-level managers, of Tesco superstore, project managers, and government. These stakeholders will show interest in the project due to political reason, earning corporate tax, monetary compensation for project completion and annual salary. Same reasons will motivate these stakeholders to show green signal to the project. Financial institutions who lend the money to the project, social activists, and local community members. The will show interest in the project for financial and environmental sustainability reasons. Motivation to support the project will be directed by environment sustainability assurance from Tesco, assurance timely repayment of debt with additional interest, good corporate social responsibility (CSR) reputation of the company. In such context, it is suggested to Tesco superstore to use multiple communication channels to communicate the project scope top stakeholders and also engage stakeholders (Jugdev, 2012).

Government 2301 Judicial Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Government 2301 Judicial Project - Essay Example He as made some land mark decision for example, on 17th January 2006, he dissented with Thomas Clarence and Scalia Antonin in Gonzalez v. Oregon, which held that the act of controlled substance doesn’t allow the attorney general of the U.S to stop physicians from prescribing drugs that will assist in suicidal for the terminally ill as the Oregon law permit, the issue was the interpretation of the case. Robert received a senate confirmation vote of seventy eight against twenty two. Clarence Thomas graduated from the law school in England. Thomas was appointed as an assistant Attorney general in Missouri and also practiced private law their. He was appointed as assistant Civil rights secretary at the department of education. He joined the U.S court of appeal for Columbia circuit in 1990. He has taken a judicially conservative perspective trying to uphold what he perceives to be the original meaning of the constitution. He was among the three judges who dissented in Hamdan V. Rumsfeld. In this case he was also the only one who conquered with the fourth circuit that congress had the power of authorizing the president’s detention of soldiers. Thomas received fifty two votes to forty eight. Ruth Joan Bader Ginsburg is an associate justice in the Supreme Court. He appointed in was in 1993 and received. Prior to Ruth Joan Bader Ginsburg appointment to Supreme Court, she had served as a federal judge for thirteen year in the U.S court of appeal of Columbia. Ruth Joan Bader Ginsburg has spent a bigger part of her career as citizenship status of men and women’s advocate. Not only did she also engage in advocacy as a volunteer lawyer but she was also a member o board of directors for ACLU and also its general counsel. She was the one who administered the oath of office for Al gore in 1999. Ginsburg is the second woman to be an associate judge of the US supremacy court. She has had many health problems over the last mainly, early last year she was diagnosed

The Project to Open a New Tesco Superstore Case Study

The Project to Open a New Tesco Superstore - Case Study Example In order to conduct stakeholder analysis for opening new Tesco superstore, the researcher will use Mendelow’s (1981) Matrix. For sake simplicity and preciseness, UK based operation of Tesco superstore will be used as reference point. UK based customers and local society members who will buy food items and grocery items from Tesco superstore. These stakeholders will show interest in the project because opening a new store will increase their convenience for shopping. Their motivation to support the project will be directed by the desire to shop quality food items, chance to get associated with the Tesco brand name etc. Project workers, Suppliers of raw material. These stakeholders will show interest in the project for monetary interest, opportunity to get financial benefit by signing the long-term contract with the company. Their motivation to support the project will be directed by business benefits, remuneration, and higher supply margin. Top-level managers, of Tesco superstore, project managers, and government. These stakeholders will show interest in the project due to political reason, earning corporate tax, monetary compensation for project completion and annual salary. Same reasons will motivate these stakeholders to show green signal to the project. Financial institutions who lend the money to the project, social activists, and local community members. The will show interest in the project for financial and environmental sustainability reasons. Motivation to support the project will be directed by environment sustainability assurance from Tesco, assurance timely repayment of debt with additional interest, good corporate social responsibility (CSR) reputation of the company. In such context, it is suggested to Tesco superstore to use multiple communication channels to communicate the project scope top stakeholders and also engage stakeholders (Jugdev, 2012).

Research Paper Essay Example for Free

Research Paper Essay Facts: Vinny was employed as a grocery clerk in the grocery store of Oscar, his employer.   The incident happened during store hours when a customer in the grocery store was about to deliver a baby.   Vinny in an effort to help the customer allowed the customer to go inside the delivery truck and the customer to the hospital. While they were on their way to the hospital, Vinny run over the dog of Melnick.   Melnick declared that he will file a suit against Oscar and Vinny for killing his dog. Issue: whether the conduct of Vinny was done within the scope of his employment so as to make Oscar liable for the accident under the principle of respondeat superior A. Delivery Case Plaintiff As a rule no person should be held liable for the acts and omissions of another. In some cases, however, the principle of agency between an employer and his employee may create legal liability known as respondeat superior.   It is a common law principle which basically means â€Å"Let the master answer.†Ã‚   It makes the employer liable for the negligent acts and omission of his employee which have caused injury to another provided that the act was done within the scope of his employment.   The theory behind this common law principle is that the principal controls the behavior of his agent and should assume responsibility and liability for the agent’s actions. The plaintiff only has to prove that the conduct falls within the scope of the employee’s employment to establish liability of the employer.   An employees conduct is covered if it is of the kind he is employed to perform, occurs substantially within the authorized time and space limits of the employment, and is actuated, at least in part, by a purpose to serve the employer. In this case, Vinny was at the time on shift and he was in the performance of his duties.   He was inside the grocery store when a customer was about to give birth.   Being in the service industry it was part of his duty to extend the necessary assistance to their customer.   His act of going to the hospital using the company truck was something that is fairly and naturally incident to the business of his employer.   (Sayles v. Piccadilly) Further the conduct of vinny was not something that promoted his own interest but it was motivated by the desire to serve his employer. B. Delivery Case: Defendant For an employer to be held liable under the doctrine of respondeat superior, it must first be proven that the employee conduct bears relationship to the nature of his work.   In determining whether an employee was acting within the scope of employment, the employee’s job description, time and place and purpose of the employee’s act, the conformity of the employee’s act to his assigned task must be examined. As a grocery clerk, Vinny’s function is to assist the customers locate the items they intend to purchase, to help in the packing of the items purchased by the customers and to answer their queries about a particular item in the grocery.   Nowhere did it say in the employee manual that part of the function of the grocery clerk is to send women who are delivering babies to the hospital.   Vinny performed something that he was not supposed to do at the time and place of the accident. The employee did not even inform the store manager, Oscar, that he will be leaving the grocery.   Indeed there was a substantial departure from the nature of the work Vinny was hired to do.   Thus, the liability for the injury he caused to Melnick is his own responsibility and should not be imputed to his employer.

How Nature Can Provide Sustainable Building Solutions

How Nature Can Provide Sustainable Building Solutions Contents (Jump to) Chapter 1: Introduction Section 1.1: Overview of the dissertation Section 1.2: The need for sustainable building solutions Section 1.3: Underlying principles and mechanisms Chapter 2:   Solutions from Nature Section 2.1: Wind-induced ventilation of the burrow of the prairie dog, Cynomys ludovicianus Section 2.2: Other notable investigations Chapter 3: Examples of Buildings that incorporate sustainable features derived from natural examples Chapter 4: Conclusions References Bibliography Chapter 1: Introduction Section 1.1: Overview of the dissertation This dissertation will focus on looking at how Nature can provide sustainable building solutions, in particular for wind-induced natural ventilation systems. The first part of the dissertation will look at the need for sustainable building solutions, in terms of the damage that has been, and continues to be, wrought on the Earth’s natural systems, and the possible solutions that can be found by studying how Nature has developed solutions to the problems of ventilations in burrows, and the need for gas exchange. The fact that Nature has produced these solutions is discussed as an event occurring over evolutionary time, through the process of natural selection. Subsequent sections of the dissertation discuss the physical principles that have been mastered by the process of evolution, such as the Bernoulli Principle and the Venturi effect, which has led to the appropriate, sustainable, solutions that are found in Nature. These principles are discussed in detail in Chapter 2, in terms of their appearance in natural systems: the burrows of the black-tailed prairie dog, Cynomys ludovicianus, the complex burrow and cone system of the mud shrimp Callianassa truncata and the burrow-mound system of the goby Valencennea longippinis which allows for increased gas exchange to the developing eggs in the burrow. The three examples are discussed in detail, in terms of the relevant literature and experimental studies that have been performed to determine how and why the animals produce such structures. Chapter 3 presents some examples of buildings that have applied solutions found from Nature to provide sustainable living spaces. Examples include, amongst others, several buildings designed by Eugene Tsui, such as the residence of Florence and William Tsui in Berkeley, California, the Watsu School at Harbin Hot Springs, the Exposition Building for the International Celebration of Innovation and the Tsui Design and Research Inc. Headquarters in Emeryville, California, and the the Kanak Cultural Centre in Noumea, New Caledonia designed by Renzo Piano. The dissertation concludes with Chapter 4, which presents some concluding remarks, concerning the fruitfulness of looking to Nature for ideas for sustainable building, for looking to Nature can prove a valuable exercise, for as Tsui, one of the great contemporary ‘organic’ architects states in his book Evolutionary Architecture: Nature as a Basis for Design, â€Å"Every great discovery that has marked the upward surge of humanity has been an insight into some profound aspect of natural phenomena. Every tool, every medicinal remedy, every scientific venture, every exploration of the physical and psychological world is a glimpse of the ineffable mind of nature a mind that has no beginning, no end, no dimension and no parameters; a mind that is compelled to create, produce, evolve, differentiate and regenerate with such perfection and thoroughness as to be the model for every human endeavour†. Section 1.2: The need for sustainable building solutions Mankind is slowly killing the Earth and its natural systems. We are living with unacceptable levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which is leading to increases in the greenhouse effect and widespread climate changes across the globe. These climate changes are causing problems for many systems, amongst them agriculture, making it much more difficult for those in sub-Saharan Africa, for example which is increasingly affected by drought and erratic rainfall patterns to be self-sufficient in terms of being able to grow enough crops to survive. Other experts predict changes in the circulation of ocean currents due to global warming, which is leading to a melting ice reserves and glaciers and causing far greater volumes of water to enter the ocean circulatory systems. Shifts in the circulation of ocean currents could have grave consequences for mankind. In addition to the problems created by increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide, pollution of the Earth’s water system has occurred on a massive scale, with experts predicting potential future problems with supplies of non-polluted water that is suitable for human use. The Earth, the blue planet, full of water and previously perfectly balanced, is facing unprecedented onslaughts to its vital systems, due to the excessive, wasteful and polluting habits of mankind. What can be done about this? It is fundamental that legislation be put in place now to preserve the Earth and its systems, and that we begin to act, individually and collectively, to save the Earth and its resources that are of fundamental value to us. Sustainability is a fundamental concern for all of humankind, as the population of the Earth begin to realise that we only have one Earth and that it needs to be looked after. By listening more closely to, and taking lessons from, the Earth and the inhabitants we share the Earth with, we can begin to live much more harmoniously and in concert with not antagonistically with the Earth and its inhabitants. The construction, use and maintenance of buildings contributes significantly to adverse environmental impacts, such as carbon dioxide production, something that will only get worse as the population increases and the need for housing grows. Many recent regulations and conventions have already been put in place to ensure that sustainable building principles become the norm in future; for example, a recent convention has been signed to reduce the discharge of hazardous chemicals to zero by 2020, and, documents such as the 1999 policy document entitled A better quality of life – a strategy for sustainable development for the United Kingdom, provide targets for sustainability within the construction industry. As many contemporary architects realize, nature itself is fully harmonious, with all of its parts working in harmony with each other, from species interacting but co-existing in a habitat, on a small scale, to on a larger scale the ocean circulation systems working in harmony to deliver nourishing currents across the globe. This harmony has been violated by the actions of mankind, and, through mankind not recognizing and respecting this harmony, we have arrived at the situation we are in with the Earth and its systems and inhabitants being exposed to very real threats. It is perhaps time that architects begin to study Nature and her solutions in order to arrive at sustainable building solutions. As Tsui, one of the great contemporary ‘organic’ architects states in his book Evolutionary Architecture: Nature as a Basis for Design, â€Å"Every great discovery that has marked the upward surge of humanity has been an insight into some profound aspect of natural phenomena. Every tool, every medicinal remedy, every scientific venture, every exploration of the physical and psychological world is a glimpse of the ineffable mind of nature a mind that has no beginning, no end, no dimension and no parameters; a mind that is compelled to create, produce, evolve, differentiate and regenerate with such perfection and thoroughness as to be the model for every human endeavour†. Looking at the natural world for inspiration can be a valuable exercise. Subsequent sections of the dissertation will look at specific examples of wind-induced ventilation, from the black-tailed prairie dog, the mud shrimp and the goby. These examples will show how each of these animals has adapted their immediate environment fully in harmony to the immediate environment, to the benefit of themselves and to their wider community. The ideas of organic, or ‘evolutiionary’ architects, such as Tsui, are based on similar principles, that architects should start, on a wide scale, to look to nature for sustainable building solutions. Looking to Nature for answers to building problems should, argues, Tsui (1999) become part of an architects repertoire. As Tsui (1999) argues, Nature is not driven by ambition, it has no preconceptions, no concept of style, and her evolution has been through small patient incremental steps, only allowing the ‘correct’ ones to persist, where ‘correct’ means the solution that is most fitting for the particular situation, the solution that is sustainable, to allow in-situ permanence. As energy consumption and the by products from air conditioning are amongst the most significant contributors to the destruction of the Earth’s systems, the subject of this dissertation is to look for natural examples of wind-induced ventilation systems that could, potentially, be incorporated in practical solutions for the construction industry, in terms of finding sustainable building solutions. Although it is understood that understanding the mechanics of natures microclimate control will not provide any quick-fix solutions to cooling buildings, these natural examples achieve equilibrium with their surroundings that is far beyond the reach of mankind at this time and, as such, by studying these systems, they can be learnt from and their novelties applied in design and building practice. Looking to natural examples of wind-induced ventilation will, therefore, potentially provide solutions to heavily polluting air conditioning systems. Section 1.3: Underlying principles and mechanisms Many animals need to live in burrows or to produce burrows for protection from the elements, for example, or for protection from predation. As shall be seen in later sections of the dissertation, the need for such burrows means that some elegant solutions to the problems such burrows present (such as a lack of ventilation) have been reached, as in the case of the black-tailed prairie dog, and that the burrows themselves can create favourable micro-environments and favourable conditions for the larger habitat, as in the case of the complex burrow and cone systems of the mud shrimp. An implicit understanding, and mastery, of physical principles of nature has been built up by these species over evolutionary time. This section of the dissertation will discuss some of these physical principles, including the Bernoulli principle, the Venturi effect and the Venturi tube. The Bernoulli Principle states that â€Å"for an ideal fluid, with no work being performed on the fluid, an increase in velocity occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure or a change in the fluid’s gravitational potential energy†. Essentially, fluid particles are only subject to pressure and their own weight, meaning that within a flowing fluid, the highest speed occurs when the pressure is lowest and the lowest speed occurs when the pressure if highest, with Bernoulli’s equation stating that the sum of all forms of energy in a fluid flowing across a streamline is the same at any two points along the path. Bernoulli’s Principle explains how water drains from a bowl in a circular pattern around the axis of the drain and also explains how one feels pulled towards large vehicles if they pass by you at high speed. The Venturi effect is a specific example of the more general Bernoulli Principle, which explains how fluids can pass through a region of incompressible flow through a tube with a constriction in it, in which situation the velocity of the fluid increases through the restriction and the pressure decreases in order to satisfy the equation of continuity and to ensure the flowing of the fluid through the constricted space. It is on this principle, for example, that the burrows of the black-tailed prairie dog is thought to work, as shall be seen in Section 2.1 of the dissertation, with the volcano device for air acceleration being applicable to underground structures of every kind. A series of venting volcanoes could be aligned with underground rooms containing air-exiting vents to produce individually vented spaces. This phenomenon can be employed and rising warm air can be directed out exiting vents, as in the burrows of the prairie dog dwelling. It is thought that, by using the prairie dog system, air can be interchanged at a rate of 2550 cubic feet per minute with no utility power (Tsui 1999). The prairie dog mounds and volcanoes have been likened to a half Venturi tube where a Venturi tube is used to determine the flow-rate of fluids or air through a pipe. The Venturi tube has a specialized streamlined constriction that minimizes the energy losses in the fluid flowing through it and which, thus, maximizes the fall in pressure in the constriction in line with Bernoulli’s principle. These principles will be discussed in further detail in Chapter 2, in terms of their appearance in natural systems: the burrows of the black-tailed prairie dog, Cynomys ludovicianus, the complex burrow and cone system of the mud shrimp Callianassa truncata and the burrow-mound system of the goby Valencennea longippinis which allows for increased gas exchange to the developing eggs in the burrow. Chapter 2: Solutions from Nature Section 2.1: Wind-induced ventilation of the burrow of the prairie dog, Cynomys ludovicianus The black-tailed prairie dog, Cynomys ludovicianus, is a ground-dwelling squirrel, one of four prairie dog species to be found uniquely in North America. Black-tailed prairie dogs live in colonies, which are generally established in cattle-grazed areas, as the prairie dogs prefer the vegetation surrounding their burrows to be short, so they can keep an eye out for predators. The black-tailed prairie dogs live in burrows, with one principle tunnel and, depending on the size of the colony, various numbers of side chambers that act as overnight housing for the prairie dogs. Unfortunately, as with many other native species, habitat destruction is causing a drastic reduction in the number of black-tailed prairie dogs (Hoffman, 1999), with conservation efforts currently underway to stabilize the population numbers of the black-tailed prairie dog (see, for example, Andelt, 1988). As Vogel et al. (1973) argue, where a fluid flows across a surface for example wind over the earth – a velocity gradient is created which provides a potential source of work. This gradient might, for example, be employed by a burrowing animal to induce air-flow in its burrow, which is long and narrow to avoid the obvious risks presented by predators. The burrow of the black-tailed prairie dog, long and narrow as it is, being, on average, 12cm in diameter and 10-30m in length (Cincotta, 1989), presents what Vogel et al. (1973) term, â€Å"a respiratory dead-space of extraordinary magnitude in which diffusion is inadequate, alone, for gas exchange†. For this reason, the black-tailed prairie dog has evolved a system of burrowing which creates a system of wind-induced ventilation within the burrow. The burrow of the black-tailed prairie dog has an opening at both ends and mounds of earth at each end, of different sizes at each end, one taller than the other, and each mound being up to 1m in height and 2.5m in diameter (Cincotta, 1989). When a breeze hits the mounds, air enters the burrow through the lower mound and leaves through the end with the higher mound. This system of wind flow has been independently verified in wind tunnel experiments, with wind-flow within the burrow being a linear function of wind flow across the mounds. Interestingly, not only has the burrowing system of the black-tailed prairie dog been found to be an excellent example of wind-induced ventilation directly from nature, but the architecture of the burrows of the black-tailed prairie dogs encourages increased species diversity of arthropods (Bangert and Slobodchikoff, 2006). Later work (Cincotta, 1989) found that adequate airflow through the burrow can be generated with only one mound, and the presence of the second mound has been explained by various hypotheses, such as the prevention of predation (through its use as a look-out post), or the prevention of flooding. Cincotta (1989) argues that the two mounds (which are usually found shaped one as a dome and one as a crater) actually represent functionally identical structures that have simply been built under different constraints in transport costs (i.e., different costs of energy). Thus, the ventilation model of Vogel et al. (1973) does not, concludes Cincotta (1989) provide a fully adequate model of the observed mound construction, and including energetic parsimony within the equation explains why the prairie dogs build the two mounds (i.e., although only one mound is needed for the wind-induced ventilation system to work, it is an energy-saving measure, in such a long burrow, to remove earth from both ends of the burrow). Similarly to how supplemented straw is used to stabilize the soils used in adobe brick construction, the mounds of the black-tailed prairie dogs are stabilized with plant fibers found in the topsoil near the entrances to the burrows (McHenry and May, 1984). Using plant fibres in mixture with the excavated soils allows the black-tailed prairie dogs to build vertically and to use less energy (as less excavated soil is needed), replicating similar energy-saving practices in building adobe brick buildings (Boudreau, 1971). Section 2.2: Other notable investigations Nature has provided engineers and architects with many examples of sustainable technologies. Animals do not have to resort to damaging the environment to be able to survive within their habitat; they fit, harmoniously, within that habitat, in balance with the physical conditions and with the other species that share the same habitat. This section will discuss some other examples, from nature, of how animals have evolved to cope with their surroundings in an optimal manner. The mud shrimp, Callianassa truncata, has been studied in the Tyrrhenian Sea and has been found to produce complex cones and burrow systems which affect the physical structure of the sea bed, and, concomitantly, the chemical zonations and the exchange processes across the sediment-water interface (Ziebis et al., 1996a; Boudreau, 1994). The mud shrimp builds these cones, therefore, to modify their immediate micro-environment by forming chemical links between the sea and the sediment. Adjacent to each cone is a shallow depression which acts to funnel water in to the cone system, and which means that oxygen, instead of penetrating only a few millimeters in to the sea bed, actually penetrates more than 50cm down, allowing oxygen-breathing animals to live in the holes (Ziebis et al., 1996a). The cones that are built by the mud shrimps are outlets for the tunnels, re-routing ammonia from buried sediment to the water above; this ammonia flow helps to nourish the sea water, providing more nourishment for phytoplankton, for example, and so the entire food chain benefits from the cone-building of the mud shrimp (Ziebis et al., 1996a). Similarly to how the complex architecture of the black-tailed prairie dogs provides opportunities for increased species diversity, the cone-building habits of the mud shrimp provides greater nourishment for those species that share its habitat. As Ziebis (1996a) herself stated, â€Å"it is a source of wonder that these relatively small animals can build such complex burrow structures and complex architecture†. Zeibis et al. (1996b) concluded, therefore, that the complex cone and burrow systems of the mud shrimp alters the small-scale flow regime, altering the shrimps own micro-habitat whilst also providing benefits to the wider community, so much so that it was concluded that, â€Å"the high spatial and temporal variability of oxygen distribution in a coastal sea bed depends on sediment surface topography (as formed by Callianassa truncata)† and the concomitant changes in boundary layer flow velocity and sediment permeability. Takegaki and Nakazono (2000) examined the role of the mounds in promoting water exchange in the egg tendering burrows of the goby Valencennea longippinis. Valencennea longippinis spawns in burrows and after spawning, the female constructs a mound on top of the burrow by piling up materials derived from the substratum. Experiments by Takegaki and Nakazono (2000) showed that the mounds promote water-exchange in the burrow allowing the exchange of oxygenated sea water to the developing gobies within the burrow, with dissolved oxygen concentrations being much higher in burrows with a mound than in burrows without a mound. The construction of a mound on top of the developing eggs thus not only protects the eggs from potential predators but also has an important role to play in delivering oxygen to the developing gobies within the burrow. These are but two further examples of how nature has evolved practical, sustainable, solutions to the problems presented by the immediate environment. The solutions formed can be extremely useful to engineers and architects who are wanting to design buildings on sustainable principles. As Thomas Herzog states in his book Architectural Designs Green Questionnaire, â€Å"In general I do not think that architecture can be deduced immediately from nature, since the design process and functions of our buildings are quite different from what is found in most plants and animals. Nevertheless, there are a lot of lessons to be learnt from nature, especially with regards to the efficiency, performance, adaptability, variety and tremendous beauty which most organisms display under close observation. Considering that nature has to obey the same physical laws as man-made objects this should be seen as very encouraging for us, making it well worthwhile to study its principles and mechanisms†. Chapter 3: Examples of Buildings that incorporate sustainable features derived from natural examples This Chapter presents some examples of buildings that have applied solutions found from Nature to provide sustainable living spaces. Examples include, amongst others, several buildings designed by Eugene Tsui, such as the residence of Florence and William Tsui in Berkeley, California, the Watsu School at Harbin Hot Springs, the Exposition Building for the International Celebration of Innovation and the Tsui Design and Research Inc. Headquarters in Emeryville, California, and the the Kanak Cultural Centre in Noumea, New Caledonia designed by Renzo Piano. The residence of Florence and William Tsui in Berkeley, California, designed by Eugene Tsui, is based, in its entirety on the tardigrade, which is known to be one of the world’s ‘most durable’ animals and which has systems inbuilt to ensure protection against flooding, fire and termite attack, amongst other things (Tsui, 2007). The house is fitted with a solar heating system and with a natural ventilation system that keeps it cool in summer and warm in the cooler months (Tsui, 2007). The house is, essentially, a living system that is capable of actively responding to any external conditions, with water systems in place that are designed to provide cooling and heating and which were based on the capillary structures of dinosaur species which allowed dinosaurs to regulate their own body temperatures (Tsui, 2007). The Florence and William Tsui residence is a notable application of the Bernoulli Principle, as it employs the Bernoulli effect in adjustable vents, which not only draw in fresh air, without the requirement for mechanical power, but also provide natural light and claimed to be inexpensive to apply (Tsui, 2007). Nostril windows pull out from the wall to let air in, using the Bernoulli effect, where air is sucked in through the open shaft and through the screened tube, which lets air in and keeps insects out. (Tsui, 2007) Tsui notes in his book Evolutionary Architecture, Nature as a Basis for Design that this facet of the design of this building was inspired by such natural examples as the prairie dog burrows. Also designed by Eugene Tsui, the Watsu School at Harbin Hot Springs is, again, a totally sustainable building, with solar-powered panels and movements of cold water around the building allowing for the natural ventilation of the building. The spherical shape of the buildings also allows for wind flow to cool the buildings, as a whole. The Tsui Design and Research Inc. Headquarters in Emeryville, California, another Eugene Tsui design, is also a totally sustainable building, incorporating natural ventilation systems based on the prairie dog burrows; the building is totally self-sufficient and uses plant life for interior temperature control, with a retractable roof allowing for the entrance of cool air, if necessary. Water is collected from the roof and used for all of the buildings needs; the integrated water system is seen, by Eugene Tsui, as an example of architecture as a living organism. Another architect whose interest lies in evolutionary, or, better, ‘organic’ architecture is Renzo Piano who designed the Kanak Cultural Centre in Noumea, New Caledonia. This building is a synthesis of nature and technology, reflecting the Kanak people’s understanding of the harmony of life and of Nature. As Piano states, â€Å" (I wanted)†¦an architecture that genuinely expresses itself between the assertion of the old, reliable values and the exploration of the new in the spirit of time† (Young, 2007). Piano’s aim for the building was to present an architectural masterpiece based on â€Å"finding the gestait† of the Kanak people and the site, through a full understanding of the Kanak people, their history and cultural traditions (Young, 2007). Aside from showing cultural respect in the design and form of designing this building, and thus fitting in to its intended environment well, the Kanak Cultural Centre in Noumea, New Caledonia also shows a wide range of natural ventilation systems. The faà §ade of the building is a double skin which provides a large air space between the woodwork and the galleries, forming a stack effect which, during the day, means hot air rises out of the space while cool air is drawn in to replace it; the cooler air then passes around the building at lower elevations, flowing out towards the lagoon at the side of the building (Young, 2007); in this way, the building ‘breathes’ with its environment, as a function of the environment in which it sits. Skylights set in the roof of the building allow for the entry of cool air, as necessary, and the interaction of all these ventilation systems allows the building to â€Å"find a continuous balance with Nature† (Young, 2007). Examples such as these buildings, and others that could be mentioned, show how it is possible to study Nature and to study the solutions provided by the process of natural selection over many generations, to enlighten sustainable building projects. That buildings can be built, for only slightly more cost than non-sustainable buildings, to act in harmony with Nature and to produce architecture that acts as a living organism is a beautiful vision. This vision of Tsui’s, as presented in his book Evolutionary Architecture, Nature as a Basis for Design, and in his many other writings, speeches and in his designs for, and his actual buildings is a beautiful vision, of mankind being given the ability to live in concert, not antagonistically with, Nature. As has to be realized, however, whilst Nature can be used as inspiration, the implications of scale need to be considered, in terms of the fact that solutions from Nature cannot simply be scaled-up in order to suit the particular needs of the built environment. The solutions need to be tailored, according to the particular situation, within the particular knowledge of the architect, as the implications of scale have a significant impact on the actual design of a building. Due to the implications of scale, solutions from Nature can never be directly copied, but need to be adapted as necessary to the particular situation in hand. The Bernoulli Principle and the Venturi effect can, however, when implemented successfully, be used to great effect in terms of producing architecture that is at once beautiful and fully at harmony with Nature, as a ‘living organism’ as in Tsui’s vision of evolutionary architecture. Chapter 4: Conclusions Green Architecture is the major architectural movement of our time. As has been seen, the ecological damage caused by buildings (through their heating and air conditioning systems, for example, or their use of unsustainable materials) can be recorded in real figures, in terms of the amount of carbon dioxide a building produces in terms of how much a building contributes to global warming. As has been seen, there are many pressures on architects, and on the construction industry as a whole, to produce sustainable buildings. This will only continue to increase in the future and so architects, such as Eugene Tsui, with their visions of buildings as living organisms, living and breathing in harmony with their environment are not so far-fetched. Mankind has become detached from his surroundings, and this detachment has meant that the Earth, and its natural systems have been abused, almost to the point of no return. As has been shown in this dissertation, the process of natural selection h as led animals to find, over evolutionary time, sustainable solutions to problems that the environment presents to them. Evolutionary architecture, as Tsui labels his brand of architecture, is an attempt to recreate this harmony and to offer to mankind a different vision of the built world. Studying natural phenomena, such as the burrows of the black-tailed prairie dog, Cynomys ludovicianus, the complex burrow and cone system of the mud shrimp Callianassa truncata and the burrow-mound system of the goby Valencennea longippinis which allows for increased gas exchange to the developing eggs in the burrow, as has been conducted in this dissertation allows architects to ‘think outside the box’ and to find alternative solutions to designing in a sustainable manner. This dissertation has aimed to show how looking to Nature can provide sustainable building solutions, using the particular example of wind-induced natural ventilation. That many of the natural solutions to this problem have been successfully incorporated in to many buildings, as discussed in Chapter 3 (i.e., the residence of Florence and William Tsui in Berkeley, California, the Watsu School at Harbin Hot Springs, the Exposition Building for the International Celebration of Innovation and the Tsui Des ign and Research Inc. Headquarters in Emeryville, California, and the the Kanak Cultural Centre in Noumea, New Caledonia designed by Renzo Piano), shows that the idea of adapting solutions from Nature is workable, if only we can take