People Communication free essay sample

One of the main reasons that people communicate is to understand each other. Without the ability to communicate nobody would understand what is expected of them and we wouldn’t know the needs of others. People also communicate to share their wants, needs and feelings. In order for us to adequately care for someone we need to know and understand what they expect from us and how they feel about different situations. Without communication we wouldn’t be able to have a conversation therefore wouldn’t know anybody’s likes or dislikes. We communicate to give and receive support and to express our thoughts, ideas and information. By doing all of this we also make and develop relationships through communicating. Aii) a) Effective communication can affect relationships in a positive way. It helps to ensure that the needs of each individual are met. When sharing information it helps to avoid misunderstandings, which will create a stronger relationship between colleagues and other professionals. We will write a custom essay sample on People Communication or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page It will also help to built trust and respect. ) Effective communication can also affect relationships between individuals using the service and their carers. If the individual understands what the carer is doing is will help create a calmer and positive atmosphere which will eventually help to build a strong relationship between the carer and the individual. It will also help the carer to understand the needs and feelings of the individual. Aiii) There are many ways to find out the communication and language needs of an individual. One way is to talk to the individual/observe the individual. Although if the individual is fully comprehendible this is a good method – if the individual is not able to speak, understand you or is confused the information you would receive could be wrong. Although I would immediately know if the individual is visually or hearing impaired. Another way is to talk to the family. This is a good way of finding out how they communicate with the individual, which will establish a familiarity for the individual. However this may not be the method of communication that the individual prefers. Another method would be to look in their care plan. This method is usually reliable and will have all the individuals past information in too, however it may not have been updated in awhile or may have been documented incorrectly due to human error and therefore will become ineffective. Aiv) When promoting effective communication you have to take into consideration a number of things. One of these is whether the individual understands you. Usually the individual will express either verbally or by facial expressions whether they understand you or not. Another factor to consider is the best method of communication with that particular individual. Obviously every one id different and will prefer to communicate in certain ways. For example, if you have an individual who is hard of hearing you could use a white board or sign language. Another factor to consider would be whether there were any language barriers. Av) There are many different methods and styles of communication that a social care worker may use. This may be verbal such as; Using a telephone – in this method only verbal communication is used as there is no body language to provide extra support. The only factors to consider with verbal communication is the tone and pitch that is used; Face to face – this verbal method is also supported by body language and facial expressions; Paraphrasing – where the social care worker will repeat what the individual has said to them to ensure they have heard correctly. To do this the care worker may re-word what the individual has said using more understandable vocabulary; Clarification – where the social care worker will sum up the conversation to ensure they have understood and Open questions – this method required more than a yes or no answer. There are also non-verbal methods such as; Sign language or lip reading – this is very effective with individuals who are hard of hearing; E-Mail – this method is good when communicating with other professionals, members of staff or the individual’s family; Pen and paper/ whiteboard – this method would be good for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing who don’t understand sign language. Using gestures is also another good behavioural method of communicating and can be used with either verbal communication or non-verbal. Avi) It is important to respond to an individual’s reaction when communication as you can ensure that they have understood you. This will help to develop a stronger relationship and will allow the individual to feel heard and accepted. Avii) An individual’s background will influence their communication methods greatly. For example, if an individual hasn’t been listened to in the past or has been ignored then they won’t feel that they will be listened to now. It also depends how they communicated in their hometown. For example, if they’re from somewhere where everyone spoke fast they will have difficulty having a conversation with someone who spoke slowly. However they would continue to talk fast irrespective of the community they now live in. Depending on where in the UK they’re from will also depend on what accent they have – this can lead to a possible communication barrier as many people find it difficult to understand people with strong accents. If they are from another country then they will have another language that they speak and may find it difficult to learn a new language or to understand what is being communicated to them. Therefore they may use a translator or if they are able to write in their new language they would use a non-verbal communication method. Aviii) There are many different communication barriers. One being language differences. To overcome this you may get in an interpreter or allow the individual to have language lessons to help them understand. You could also use makaton or sign language if the individual was able to understand that method or use body language and gestures to help. Another communication barrier could be a physical barrier. To overcome this you would need to identify the preferred method of communication – this could be body language, gestures, eye contact, physical touch, facial expressions, spoken language, makaton or sign language, writing, drawing or pictures. Another barrier could be cultural differences. To overcome this you could have to check each individuals record to ensure you are aware of which culture they are from. You could also speak to a family member, friends or someone else who is form the same culture to learn and understand a bit more about it or use the internet to look it up. Aix) A strategy that you could use to clarify misunderstandings that you may have would be to ask verbally if the individual understood what you were communicating to them and then repeat yourself if they haven’t fully understood. You could also get another carer/person to explain it to them or try a different method of communication such as writing/ drawing/ makaton etc. Ax) To enable a more effective communication with individuals you could use their preferred spoken language or use signs, symbols, objects or write it down for them. You would use the appropriate communication style to ensure you are communicating in a way which is sensitive to the in individuals needs, concerns and reactions. You could also ensure you allow the individual nough time to process and understand what is being communicated to them and ensure they have the correct communication aids that they needs for example hearing aids. If needed they could access extra support for example, interpreters or translators, signers or special equipment or aids to help the, understand. Task B Case Study Bi) Confidentiality means not sharing any information with anyone about someone else without their knowledge or agreement unless they are putting th emselves or someone else at risk. I would explain to Hannah that although she is an individual and has a right to choose whether or not she takes the tablet, she is putting her health at risk and therefore I would have to share the information with my manager to ensure that she stays healthy and safe. I would also tell Hannah that I won’t be sharing the information with her daughter unless she agreed to it. Bii) As Hannah is putting herself at risk a number of different people would need to be notified. These would include all the care staff and the senior carer, the manager and possibly her Nurse/ Doctor as they would be able to ensure her safety and help her to understand the benefits of taking her tablet. Although Hannah would be upset that I shared the information with other health care professionals, if her Daughter found out the strong relationship between them could potentially break down. Biii) Any information that is shared during work should remain at work and information shouldn’t be passed onto people who aren’t in a health care profession or working along side you. Any information regarding other individuals or staff members shouldn’t be discussed with other service users. All the residents information such as their care plans should be kept in a locked cupboard so they are out of reach from visitors and other residents. Information regarding an individual shouldn’t be passed out over the phone unless told by a senior member of staff and you should ensure that you can’t be overheard by anyone when talking about an individual or member of staff. Biv) A social care worker should get advice on confidentiality when they feel that someone is potentially at risk. If the care worker decides that keeping the information to themselves could cause harm to themselves, the individual or someone else then they should get further information. This can be found in the policies and procedures and their staff manual. They could also ask a senior member of staff or their manager.

Health Effects of PBDE Absorption

Health Effects of PBDE Absorption Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) is a common flame retardant used to reduce the risk of fire in a wide variety of products, such as childrens pajamas and your computer. PBDEs are excellent flame retardants, but the chemicals have been accumulating in the environment and in human bodies. Relatively recent reports have indicated that exposure to low concentrations of these chemicals may result in irreparable damage to the nervous and reproductive systems. The European Union will ban two of the three most common PBDE formulations starting in 2004. California is the only U.S. state to take action, passing a law to ban certain PBDEs, but not until 2008. Several Japanese electronics companies will be phasing PBDEs from their products. Other countries and individual manufacturers are taking steps to eliminate their use of PBDEs. PBDE concentrations are 10-20 times higher in North Americans than in Europeans. European concentrations are about twice those of Japanese levels. Calculations performed by Ronald Hites of Indiana University show that body concentrations have been exponentially increasing, with a doubling time of 4 to 5 years. PBDE-containing products are being phased out, but the chemicals remain a health concern because they are so persistent in the body and in the environment.

Academic Case Report Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Academic Case Report - Assignment Example The company started to bring about few changes in the company business policies which has brought many problems in the company’s culture and has reduced the morale of the employees (Boeing, 2014). It did face many problems in implementing the latest technology in the business operations and mainly in its production process thus struggled in huge way to maintain the efficiency of the employees and also the productivity of the company has gone down by huge percentage. In this case analysis the Six-Box Organizational Model is been used to get the exact cause of the problems that Boeing is facing based on which certain recommendations are been given to the company so that the company can improve it its operations. The model will help the company to understand the right cause where it needs to concentrate and improve upon to make sure that they don’t face the same problem again in future. The model used to analyze this case is the six-box organization model. The organizational diagnosis for the change is done by defining the problem and using a particular pattern for correctly analyzing the problem in the company, collection of the data, than analyzing the particular data based on which the right problems can be understood. This will help the company to understand the exact things that are to be done to solve the problems and improve the current situation. Marvin R. Weisbord developed the Six-Box model for analyzing the problems in the organization. This model has six main categories which are been used to conduct the diagnosis of the organizations current scenario. These six categories are relationships, helpful mechanisms, rewards, purpose, structure and leadership. To perform this model it is very necessary to know the exact reason behind the diagnosis and what is really to be diagnosed. The identification and solving of the problem is been done in a systematic ma nner and by the same people thus

Business case study on Bell Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Business case study on Bell - Assignment Example Moreover, prior knowledge of these factors facilitates development of effective strategies for sustainable success, especially in the era of highly competitive global business environment. It was important for Ron Close to have in-depth understanding of these five forces for Bell Canada Enterprise before accepting the position of President, consumer VoIP for Bell Canada. The examination of these forces would enable him to assess the viability of VoIP (voice over internet protocol) within the operation of Bell or as a new venture, independent of the influence of Bell, in Canada. Bell Canada was a leadership company in the field of telecommunication. It provided fixed line telephones and internet services to approximately 13 million customers in its core territory of Quebec and Ontario. It was also 14th largest company as per 2004 survey with major stake in Aliant, which operated in Eastern provinces. Through acquisition of fiber cable network and merger with other different media inte rests like print, television, IT etc., Bell not only provided fixed line, mobile services and internet, it also was in possession of huge network of fiber cable used for high speed internet which could hugely contribute to the success of VoIP. Hence, evaluating the five forces would significantly influence the decision of Ron Close to accept or not to accept the challenge of being the president of VoIP division, Bell Canada. Answer 2 Competitive Rivalry Industry rivalry is an important element for developing distinct competencies and differentiating products to gain leverage in the market. Bell was pioneer in the telecommunication field in Canada with near monopoly. Bell’s main rivals in telephony were: Telus, which operated in British Columbia and Alberta; SaskTel in Sasketchewan; and 50 small telephone companies. In the cable network, Roger, Cogeco and Shaw were key opponents in Ontario; and Videotron and Cogeco in Quebec. In 2005, all these firms had launched VoIP through high speed internet or HIS. While Cogeco and Videotron did not have nationwide network, Roger, Shaw and Bell had the advantage. But Bell had the leverage in the sense that it owned a satellite operator, Teleglobe and its vast network of cable spread across Western Canada that also extended to America which would significantly reduce the cost of infrastructure which may run in billions. Most importantly, its market credibility and huge database of customers were crucial factors that could be turned into VoIP customers. VoIP is barrier free and therefore small players like Primus and Vonage become important as with relatively small investment they can offer continent wide internet telephony. Messenger from Microsoft and Skype have also emerged as popular VoIP service provider attracting huge numbers of customers from the globe. Answer 3 Supplier power Bell does not have suppliers except for the government from which it buys bandwidth for HIS. But so far as customers are concerned, Bel l is part of various other suppliers of VoIP services. This is important element that indicates the bargaining power of suppliers vis-a-vis provision of goods and service. When there are lots of suppliers, they have less bargaining power and operate within highly competitive environment. In the case of Bell, especially related to VoIP, there are some major suppliers who have good database of custo

Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy - Essay Example The seal's flippers are composed of living cells that needs constant blood oxygen supply. The dilemma is that the circulation of blood to the flippers will bring back ice-cold venous blood to the interior of the seals body. This dilemma is solved with the counter-current exchange system that is existent in these animals' flippers. Venae comitantes are veins that surround the limb arteries of the seals to prevent the return of cold venous blood to the body of the seal(Koeslag, 1995). Before the oxygenated blood enters the arteries of the flippers, the heat which is present that blood releases its heat through the venae comitantes to the cold venous blood. The oxygenated blood that enters the flipper arteries is cold as it circulates the flippers but when in enters the veins through the venae comitantes it is warmed near the body temperature (35C) utilizing the heat that it released before its entry in the flipper artery. Thus, the counter-current exchange mechanism of the seals' flippers prevent the alteration of the normal internal body temp of the animal which is 37C even though blood is continuously circulating to the flippers(Koeslag, 1995). Human beings also have a counter-current mechanism that is similar to that of the seals. ... The limbs of human beings are equipped with a counter-current system that maintains the normal temperature of the blood flows from the limbs during cold weather(Koeslag, 1995). Closely at the deep center of the limbs, the arteries of humans are strategically located. These arteries are also surrounded by venae comitantes or deep veins which receives the blood that circulated the limb arteries for transportation to the center of the cardiovascular system. The normal temperature of human blood is 37C so the oxygenated blood before entering the limb arteries transfers the heat to the venae comitantes making the oxygenated blood cold to about 20C. Then before entering the veins of the limbs the deoxygenate blood is warm to 37C in the venae comitantes. The temperature of the blood that is returned to the heart therefore remained unaltered that is still 37C. The process of blood circulation in the limbs in cold weather is slow to facilitate the function of the counter-current system(Koeslag, 1995). During warm weather that counter-current system of the human limbs is switched off because the circulation of blood to the limbs is increased compromising this system. The venae comitantes is not utilized instead the blood from the limb arteries return to through the subcutaneous veins. The blood circulating during hot weather is cooled with the facilitative dilation of the superficial veins and constriction of the venae comitantes(Koeslag, 1995). Question number 2: Camel or Camelus spp. are dessert animals that posses this taxonomic characteristic: Kindon Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Subphylum Vertebrata, Class Mammalia, Order

Macro and Micro Environment Trends in the Gaming Industry

Macro and Micro Environment Trends in the Gaming Industry Sony, a highly-technologically driven multinational Japanese corporation, is amongst the leading companies in producing and selling electronics worldwide. Its quality electronic products associated with laptops, mobiles, cameras, video game consoles have enabled them to achieve a significant advantage over its competitors in the aggressively ever-changing technological market. Play Station, Sonys best invention, is one of its prominent electronic devices which have taken Sony to new heights due to its mass consumption and fierce consumer loyalty. As a result, the success of the new Sony Play Station 3 prompted us to focus on how it tends to survive in the market over the next few years. (2011-2013). The current and future environmental scan of Sony Play Station 3 will help us identify several upcoming challenges the cooperation must address in order to maintain their success. Lastly, the geographic area we are focusing on is the impact of Play Station 3 in UAE and how the market for gamers in the Middle East continues to grow. The structure of this report will begin with the designing of the product market structure along with the relevant market where Sony Play Station 3 and its competitors are serving its customers. In addition, we will analyze the external and internal environmental trends that can affect the continuity of the brand. Also, we will focus on other important issues which are likely to arise in the future and shift the focus of segmentation, primary and selective demand, SWOT and competitive analysis. Unquestionably, the 7th generation video game consoles like Play station 3 with a cult following has not only provided Sony with tremendous economic benefits but also an image of being a company that continuous to utilize the improving technology and create such astonishing machines which are being used worldwide. The non-portable and the portable gaming industry are dominated by fierce competitors who adapt successful marketing strategies to divert focus of potential customers from one boundary to another. The relevant market, for non-portable game consoles, in which Sony Play station 3 strives to operate with continuous success along with other recognizable brands offer game console devices with similar features and experiences. We tend to focus on the impact of Sony Play station 3 in the present and the future non-portable gaming console relevant market of United Arab Emirates, next three years (2011-2013), and what strategies it will have to undertake in order to achieve sustaina bility and ensure long-term survival. Baldwin (2010) reports, Tim Stokes, Sales and Marketing Director for PlayStation Division, estimated that gaming in the Middle East is worth up to $1 billion or two per cent of the global market of $45 billion in total international sales. Therefore, it is interesting to see know the Middle East markets contribution to the success of gaming devices and it prompted us to focus on this underrated UAE market that continuous to be a hot prospect in this gaming field. Furthermore, identifying the relevant market for Sony Play Station 3 considers two important factors which are degree of substitutability and managerial perspective will be applied to understand the product market structure. As showcased earlier, our product market structure simplifies the understanding of which product category Play Station 3 and its competitors fall. Even though this market has many other competitors; however, it is being dominated by few due to their fierce mass loyalty. In other words, non-portable game console is a consolidated industry with few dominant market leaders with large market shares and worldwide presence. The first layer which deals with the customer needs mainly is the machines that can support video games. These machines, which are video game supporting devices, are applicable for all types of video games ranging from Arcade to family oriented games. It is then broken down into the second important layer, product class, which is the video gaming console and the personal computer devices where we experience the interactive games. The impact of the improving technology in both personal computers and video game console devices has highly increased the degree of substitutability between the two. This degree of substitutability between PCs and portable/non-portable game consoles in the UAE market is currently very high as both devices are being upgraded to provide similar graphical experiences. In short, the PCs are also doing a very successful job in competing with the 7th generation video game consoles and in taking some of the customers who enjoy playing games suitable with a keyboard and more importantly the mouse. Understanding the degree of substitutability between the game consoles and PC devices is present due to several factors. These factors can range from the perceived benefits, in terms of convenience and price, to the fea tures the superior device has to offer that is compatible with the both games and customers requirements. Moreover, in the third layer, product form, the video game consoles are then separated on the basis of being portable (handheld) and non-portable devices. The degree of substitutability is not likely to be present between the two at current stage in UAE since handheld devices to not provide the same thrilling experience as compared to a game being played on a bigger screen. Also, the portable game console devices with two main devices, PSP and Nintendo 3DS, tend to target a different type of target market which are mainly children. For a hardcore gamer, a big screen experience and competing via social networking is an essential tool which can only be excitingly through the non-portable gaming consoles. However, in the later stage of the report, we will emphasize on the importance of size being now considered as a huge factor in the decision making process and how the movement towards portable video game console devices is on an incline. In short, we will emphasize more on the switchi ng between the boundaries of the relevant market in the implications phase to justify the reasoning of the increased degree of substitutability between the non-portable and portable devices in the coming years. Lastly, Sony Play Station 3 along with its current competitors comes in the last layer, brand specification, under the Sony category that dominates the non-portable game consoles in the relevant market. As mentioned earlier, our report is limited down to the dominance of non-portable gaming devices, and the focus being PS3, and their implications in the coming years. This report will give a detailed analysis of how Sony PS3 can be chosen based on various rational and emotional aspects. Determining the degree of substitutability between the 7th generation gaming consoles that are Sony Play station 3 and X-box 360 is very challenging due to the amazing features they both offer and hence making it difficult for buyers to recognize which one is better. Moreover, this degree of substitutability is supported with the concepts of Primary and more importantly Secondary Demand that aids in the decision making of current and future customers in which console to choose. In addition, the micro a nd macro environmental trends were carefully taken into account to ensure what steps has already been taken to establish a competitive advantage; moreover, the steps Sony Play station 3 will have to consider over the next years in order to stay competitive in its relevant market. In short, our managerial focus is analyzing the successful non-portable devices which belong to these cult brands that are Sony Play Station, Microsoft X-Box and Nintendo. In addition, the managerial focus is highly dependent on the future market of UAE and how Sony Play Station 3 should utilize this market to its maximum potential and understand its current and potential competitors position in the coming years. Furthermore, the relevant market with respect to the non-portable game console devices in which Play Station 3, X-box 360 and Nintendo Wii compete may be saturated with these prominent leaders; however, our research primarily focuses on Play Station 3 and we will try to place its position in the relevant market in the current and next two years. Macro environment Political legal Copyright laws Counterfeit or copied video games and software are prohibited in several countries including the UAE. Different authorities in the UAE are collaborating with one another, foreign governments and with organizations such as Microsoft to capture counterfeit goods of different kinds including video games and software (Oct 19, 2010, Dubai Customs foilsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). The customs inspectors take specialized courses in combating commercial fraud which enables them to uncover any attempts to threaten the national security of the UAE (Oct 19, 2010, Dubai Customs foilsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). According to the IPR -Intellectual Property Rights- department at Dubai customs there were three seizures of counterfeited CDs in 2010 compared to five seizures in 2009 (Oct 19, 2010, Dubai Customs foilsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). In the years to come these laws are going to be more effective due to advances in technologies and the more experienced customs staff and inspectors. Economical The GDP growth in 2009 was 2.7% compared to 2.6 % in 2010 (Central Intelligence Agency, (2011)). The economy is expected to rebound slowly and the challenges faced include dependence on oil, expatriates and greater inflation, the inflation rate in 2010 was 2.2% (Central Intelligence Agency, (2011)). In the next few years the UAE is planning to increase diversification and improve education and private sector employment for the UAE nationals (Central Intelligence Agency, (2011)). The economic crisis had a negative effect on income which is considered to be a main determinant when buying a game console since the price of the consoles can be high. The economic crisis is expected to be reduced in the next few years, the GDP increased from 2009 to 2010, and following that income may rise and more customers become able to purchase game consoles. Sociocultural Statistics from the ESA -Entertainment Software Association- show that in the United States 25% of game players are less than 18 years old, 49% in the age group 18 49 and 26% 50 and older ((2010). Essential Facts aboutà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). Also, 64% of the gamers play video games with other persons which is a higher number than in 2008 and 2009 ((2010). Essential Facts aboutà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). Parents participate with their children in playing video games as 48% play video games with their children ((2010). Essential Facts aboutà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). The reason for this participation includes fun for the whole family and socializing with the children ((2010). Essential Facts aboutà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). We can relate these statistics to the demographics in the UAE as 78.7% of the population is in the age group 15 64. The percentage of video gamers differs of course but in the UAE most of the gamers will probably fall in the age group 15 30.Video games and video game consoles in particular are beco ming more users friendly and as in the Nintendo Wii there are games that target the whole family and children. In the future more video games and technologies like the ones that exist in the Nintendo Wii are going to be introduced. These video games will appeal to a wide range of demographics of both genders. Technological Augmented reality Augmented reality is a new technology that is very popular today and a technology that is still being developed (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). In video game consoles augmented reality can be seen in the play station eye toy where images from the real world such as the user and display it on a computer screen (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). Then the user is able to interact with virtual objects on the screen through software (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). The annual sales of augmented reality are expected to rise from approximately 1 million in 2209 to 732 million in 2014 (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). The technology still faces several limitations but developers and researchers are improving and developing the technology (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). The researchers are trying to integrate real world images with graphics instead of just displaying them on a computer screen ((n.d.), How Augmented Reality Will Work). This technology will create a feeling of the five senses and separate the users from computer gener ated graphics ((n.d.), How Augmented Reality Will Work). Motion sensing game controllers The Nintendo Wii was introduced with a motion sensor called the Wiimote which can track movement and positions (Sung, K., Feb 2011). The technology was simple and proved that well engineered technologies with appealing games can be very profitable (Sung, K., Feb 2011). The Nintendo Wii was cheaper than Xbox and PS3 and it was considered a success (Sung, K., Feb 2011). Following this success Nintendo introduced the Wii Motion Plus which is an attachment to the Wiimote that improves accuracy and response time (Sung, K., Feb 2011). Sony reacted to this success by releasing the Playstation Move which is a motion controller for the PS3. Sonys motion controller was more accurate than Nintendos controller and acquired reputation quickly (Sung, K., Feb 2011). After that the Xbox released its Xbox Kinect system in 2010 which contains state of the art technologies (Sung, K., Feb 2011). The system is a USB accessory for the existing Xbox 360 instead of being a whole new game console (Sung, K., Feb 2011). This shows that video game consoles manufacturers are moving towards technologies and devices based on human computer interface (Sung, K., Feb 2011). The next generation of video game consoles Video game consoles can be categorized in seven generations depending on the technologies introduced with each console. PS3, Xbox 360 and Nintedo Wii are considered to be in the seventh generation (Miller, M., Apr 1, 2005). The next generation is predicted to be more powerful with increased graphical power which will increase the costs of making games for the consoles (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). The costs are expected to rise from 20 30 million to 60 million per game (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). The higher development costs of video games raise the cost of video game consoles manufacturing (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). Onlive is a company that is attempting to stream video games directly to the computer or TV through the users internet connection at home (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). The technology is early but promising and can increase the life cycle of the current game consoles (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). However, this technology can be present in the next generation consoles. The next gen eration is expected to arrive in 2011 or 2012 as mentioned by Yves Guillemont the CEO of Ubisoft -video game developer- (Yam , M., January 23, 2009). Micro environment Consumer Behavior As mentioned earlier, Sonys target market segment, of the Play Station 3, is gamers, particularly teens or adolescents; Teens and young adults are the main contributors to the high sales revenue being generated by the Sony Corporation through the gaming console. A common purchasing ideology in the UAE, shared by most of its citizens, is having or owning the latest technology or releases of electronic equipment; this might have been an influencing factor in Sonys decision of having significant stock inventory be made available to local retailers, safeguarding against shortages that have frustrated retailers based in launch markets such as Japan and the United States (Nov. 30, 2010, GITEX Showcases Convergence). Such preparations, although in 2006, suggest that the corporation viewed the UAE as a demanding market. Four years following the release of the PS3, sales of the console or its updates continues, with stock being replenished in major stores such as Carrefour and electronics stores such as Jackys. In 2008, it has been reported that the UAE gaming console market has achieved Dhs17.78m sales from January to Mayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦with 4.448 million units sold and the PS3 dominating the UAE console market with 59% (Aug. 16, 2008, UAE Gaming Con sole Salesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). Having achieved such a success back in 2008, and without the existence of present statistics on its current sales rate, it is safe to assume that the UAE consumer market continues to grow in favor of the PS3 and by 2012 the UAE consumer market will still be into buying the PS3. By 2013, though, with the forecasted advent of Sonys new console, the PS4, there might be a decrease in the sales of the PS3. Yet, the release of the new console might not affect the sales in an entirely negative manner; with the introduction of the PS4 to the market, the price of a PS3 would decrease making it more affordable for consumers who were not able to purchase it when sales were at its peak. Also, the introduction of a new console into the market, according to Summers, the previous system still has a lot of value because the new one is still going to be able to play your old games, and because the old one is still going to have new games released for it (Summers, n.d.). Hence, this ensures that UAE sales of the PS3 are to continue, with a little depreciation, despite the introduction of the PS4. However, the UAE consumer market may exhibit a low demand to no demand for the PS3 by 2014, depending on the release of the PS4. If released in late 2012/ early 2013, the new console would have a year to achieve its success and take control of the gaming console market, due to the promised advanced technology it is to offer and the improvement of the real life gaming experience that is being offered by the PS3. Hence, 2014 may be the year where the PS3 takes the bench in the UAE market. Nature of Buying Decision The PS3 targets hardcore gamers, who would want to feel as though they are part of the game. Hence, the specifications offered with the console, such as Hi-Definition gaming graphics which makes the games as realistic as possible, and so on. However, the PS3 does come with a hefty price tag, making it a hard choice for those who would want to purchase it since similar specifications can be found on other consoles that are much cheaper. This is the point of buyer motivation. The PS3, most of the time, releases games that are considered to be exclusive to the consoles, hence maintaining the consoles uniqueness. Furthermore, other incentives are offered with the console, such as a Blu-Ray player, allowing the user to watch movies of outstanding graphical quality and clarity without having to purchase a separate player to indulge themselves in such an experience. Hence, Sony provides its gamers and consumers with a complete package with the PS3. The United Arab Emirates houses some of the most hardcore gamers and currently marked itself as a major gaming market. Hence, since the console offers so much potential along with extras, such as those mentioned above, easily capture a purchasers attention in this country. Also, gamers in this country like to look for the unique gaming experience, and this is exactly what the PS3 offers. Moreover, elsewhere, the hefty price tag would have been a factor influencing the choice. Yet, the UAEs rebound from the recession, along with the technology owning competitive nature of its citizens, helps maintain the current growth in sales of the PS3 as well as the sales for the next two years. Loyalty Segments Having previously released two consoles, the PS1 and PS2, which satisfied their consumers and entertained them beyond measure, Sony is able to secure their loyal fans. The PS3s release into the market was already a guaranteed success due to the reputation earned by its predecessors in the gaming world. All that was needed to attract the attention of the consumers was a change in the console design, making it sleeker and easier on the eyes, and a slight change in the gaming experience previously offered, such as smoother interface, introduction of a complete operating system housing all the consumer needs, and better graphic drivers to make the games resemble reality. Many of the people who purchased a PS3 in the UAE have previously owned, at least, the PS2. Moreover, since the PS2 has been a success in the UAE as well as the region, according to Yasuhide Yokota (Computer Gaming Major Sonyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦), the country has a large and loyal fan base, in turn assuring the PS3s growth in sales within the next two years. Competition The PS3s current market rivals, in the UAE, are Microsofts Xbox 360 and the Nintendos Wii, even though the latter does not pose as an obstacle since it does not come with half of what the PS3 has to offer to the UAE gamers. Gamers in the UAE seem to have two main interests when it comes to console gaming: Football/ Soccer and racing games. Hence, it is the Xbox 360 that is considered to be a threat to the PS3 since it offers almost all the unique gaming experience specifications, such as high resolution graphics and smooth real life play, as well as the most demanded games, for a cheaper price. In addition, having mentioned the UAEs consumer markets tendency to constantly purchase newer technology and devices, another one of PS3s competitors, although a product of the corporation, is to be the PS4, which is forecasted to be released on Q4 of 2012 or Q1 of 2013 (Naik, 2011) as per the release timeline of the PS3 and its predecessors, even though no official release dates have been mentioned by Sony. Since the PS4 is to be an 8th generation console, it is going to offer advanced technology and better gaming experiences than the PS3 making it a target product for the countrys consumers. Moreover, games are a major influence in the choice of consoles for the consumers in the UAE. Game manufacturers offer their services to all the consoles mentioned above, but these games could differ slightly, as with the case of the PS3 and the Xbox. Since the PS3 and Xbox fight over control, in the graphical aspects, such as real-life gaming experiences, the enabling of high definition game-play and use of surround sound, and other such characteristics that complete the advertised and highly anticipated gaming experience, Sony keeps their consumers through the introduction of exclusive gaming experiences such as the introduction of games that cannot be played other than on the PS3 and such, as well as creating games with titles in Arabic to accommodate and further satisfy the UAEs market. Porters 5 forces Having laid out Porters strategy, in general, for the PS3, relating it to the console and the market of the UAE over a time frame of the next three years is as follows: Threat of Substitutes: As mentioned above, computer games/ PC games pose as substitute to console gaming in general, and it is gaining popularity within the UAE. However, computer games do not offer the same gaming experience that the PS3 has to offer, and are only interesting when played online. This gives the PS3, as well as its console competitors, an advantage; interactive online and offline gaming experiences. Moving on towards the console competitors, the PS3 has been able to establish its place in the market due to offering more as a package, than the Xbox 360 and the Wii, for a price that is within the range of the other consoles, and shares the same life-span, which is an estimate of 10 years. Moreover, with the release of the Wii 2 (2012-2013) which is to have Hi-Def graphics, the price for that console will be higher than the PS3, in turn allowing future consumers and current ones to purchase or remain with the PS3 which offers the same, if not more, level of graphics. Threat of New Entrants: Until the 3rd quarter of 2012, the competition for the PS3 remains the same: Microsofts Xbox 360 and Nintendos Wii. Furthermore, since Microsoft has released that the corporation has no intention of releasing a new console (Dumitrescu, 2009), the PS3 will maintain its current position in the UAE market. By the 4th quarter of 2012 or the 1st quarter of 2013, however, Sony is expected to release the PS4 (n.d., PS4 Release Dateà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦), following the trend set by their previous console releases, which would pose as the PS3s newest competitor, and by the end of 2013 it might relieve the PS3 of its domination of the UAE market. The Intensity of Competitive Rivalry: Within a year (by 2012), the PS3 and the Xbox will definitely have games that exploit their graphical abilities to a great extent. However, since the PS3s entire potential has not been wielded yet (n.d., PS4 Release Dateà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦), the chances are that the UAE market is going to stay with the PS3 since the games released then will/ might require specifications more than what the Xbox 360 has to offer, specifications-wise. In addition, further development of the Playstation Eye will take place, maybe perfecting the flaws of interactive-reality gaming, which takes the Wii out of the equation. Despite the release of the PS4 by the end of 2012 and the beginning of 2013 though, the PS3 will remain to have a stronghold of the market, for then the price of the PS3 is going to decrease and the games offered by PS4 are going to be similar to those available for the PS3, allowing consumers to enjoy the same degree of gaming quality that the PS4 has t o offer. However, through the course of the year, after the PS4 might have had its time to position it-self in the market, newer games, that might exceed the potentials offered by the PS3, will attract the consumers. Bargaining Power of Buyers: This will remain the same over the next three years, for the market is controlled by the three console manufacturers. Until the release of the PS4 and Wii 2, the UAE market is to be the same as it is now. By 2013, when the new consoles are released onto the market, the prices of the PS3 and the Wii will depreciate, in turn forcing the Xbox 360s prices to decrease as well. However, since Nintendos history shows that the introduction of new consoles is synonymous with the halting of production games and gadgets for previous ones, and Sony has done otherwise with the PS3s predecessors (Summers, n.d.), then consumers will consider the PS3 as a safer investment. Bargaining Power of Suppliers: Since the competition is set, and the games sold are similar if not the same for each of the consoles, then the UAE market would remain the same for the next three years, even with the release of new consoles. Stakeholders analysis PS3 Customer Implications PlayStation 4 is expected to have great demand if prices are reasonably high compared to the price of ps3 in an effort to provide as many customers as possible with the opportunity to purchase PlayStation 4. By launching play station 4, consumers will by buying more PS4s than Xbox 360s and Wiis as a result Sony will lead the market for coming years. PS3 Environment Implications These are the plans for the next 3 years regarding the Environment in UAE. Sonys Environmental Plan Road to Zero Green Management 2013 Green Management 2013 Environmental Management Structure Campaigns and advertisements boosting these plans and events will enhance Sonys image in UAE as the brand appears as an environmentally friendly product as a result as the demand for the brand increases demand for ps3 will also rise. These CSR and environment protection activities are costly and will put on a rise to the price of Sony products and therefore the increase in cost will be pushed to the price of ps4 when launched. PS3 Community Implications: Sony is expecting to have a positive impact in the coming 3 years through CSR activities by powering its products and business activities globally. PS3s indulgence in CSR activates is likely to enhance its image in the long run as it will be perceived as a device which not only is entertaining but also environmental friendly. PS3 Distribution Channel Implications Distribution cost will fall in the coming years, consumers will have more pleasant shopping experience more specialized stores and sales people who know exactly what the customers are looking for. Consumers will also start seeing Sony Retailer Network logo in Ads and POS displays. The more enhanced shopping experience will also increase the demand for Sony and therefore result in higher prices in the coming years. Implications over the next three Years Unfortunately, the boundaries of the Product market structure have already been broken due to several technological and socio-cultural factors. The increased substitutability is happening because of the demographics in UAE have evolved and are always looking for the devices that can offer the best gaming experience. The first implication which is likely to increase over the next years is the emphasis on improving gaming portable devices such as Nintendo 3DS which was introduced in UAE in the first quarter of 2011. The owners of Nintendo 3DS understood the new socio-cultural trends ,which is currently enjoying the 3d technology, and created this device for users who want the 3d experience in a smaller screen without the usage of any glasses. Nintendo 3DS being the first ones to provide the gaming experience in 3d had created an enormous amount of buzz in the market; hence, the same idea is now being applied by other companies. Sony Play station 3 owners are yet to utilize this 3d technology; however, in order to compete in this portable gaming industry, Sony will introduce Sony NGP (PSP 2) in early 2012 that will provide an unbelievable gaming experience in small screens. UAE Distributers will vigorously promote NGP towards the launch as the next generation portable entertainment platform and dep loy various measures to further expand the portable gaming market. (Stuart, 2011). Sonys strategy of introducing NGP can provide them with a competitive edge in the portable gaming market; however, only time will tell if they had succeeded. Secondly, the surprising success of portable PC devices like iPad and iPad 2 in the UAE market have created a very unique set of games with a large fan following. The games in the iPad are relatively easier to play and can be very addictive. Moreover, Blackberry that has been a global phenomenon with mass consumption in the Middle East market are introducing its own graphic tablet, with its own official set of games, by the name of Blackberry playbook in the end of 2011 and hence making the portable gaming devices industry more demanding and competitive. (Shuey, 2010). In short, the games in these graphic tablets like iPad and Blackberry which are more motion and movement oriented has solidified their position as a serious competitor in the portable gaming industry for PCs. Thirdly, the improving features of the non-portable personal computers is another major threat which are designed for hard-core gamers who want enormous storage capacity features along with its incredible graphical experience. A perfect example of such computers which provide similar graphical experiences to PS3 and Xbox is Dells Alienware. Alienware might have been launched by Dell in 2008; however, it can support all playstation3 and xbox 360 games making their presence highly competitive in the market. Moreover, it is being upgraded and reintroduced on frequent basis unlike Playstation 3 which takes longer time for its next version to launch. The usage of mouse and keyboards makes the PC industry still a fierce competitor as games will always require fast and accurate hand movements that can only be used on PCs. In addition, PCs are also very economical due to the latest games which can be downloaded on the internet for free as opposed to PS3 games which can be very costly and can take months to arrive. Also, the restrictions of certain popular games with high sexual and violent content are banned by the UAE government; therefore, the PC gamers can enjoy the internet service and can quickly download and play

Whirligigs by Paul Fleischman :: essays research papers

Whirligigs by Paul Fleischman After getting humiliated at a party, Brent drives away drunk and decides to kill himself. Letting go of the wheel on the highway, he ends up killing someone else. He killed a girl named Lea. Her mom asks Brent to put up 4 whirligigs, one in each corner of the US. Since they were Lea’s favorite toys, they’re meant to be monuments representing Lea’s ability to make people happy. With wood, sum tools, a book on whirligigs, and a bus pass, Brent leaves on his trip to build the whirligigs. In each of the 4 states, someone sees’ one of the whirligigs and learns a lesson. After seeing the whirligig in Florida, a young Puerto Rican dad learns an important lesson. It’s that people in a group can make good music or bad music. A young girl and her dying grandmother get a lot closer after seeing the whirligig in San Diego, California. In Washington, an adopted kid finds out that his life isn’t that bad after all. And lastly, a girl and her best friend are reunited in Maine. The biggest lessons learned are the ones that Brent learns on his trip to the four spots. All kinds of people contribute to Brent’s change of attitude; one comment or story or facial expression at a time. Not only does he help himself, but also several people that he meets. Some of the conflicts were the times when the kid was throwing rocks at his first whirligig, and when he left his whirligig book on the bus. Each conflict leads to a good ending though. The kid that was throwing rocks at it somehow gained a respect for the whirligig, after his mom told him off. Brent figured that the whirligig had helped him this far and now it was time for the book to help inspire someone else. So the whirligigs turned into a far bigger influence than anyone else could imagine. The rising action of the story was when he would find friends and they would help him to realize certain things about himself. The biker that he met helped him get started on stars. One of the maids that he met on his trip had shown him kindness and through this, she taught him that u can always have a fresh start or second chance at life as long as you try hard enough. And the artist that he met at the ocean helped him learn that u shouldn’t always judge a book by its cover, there might be more to someone than you think.

The Pepsi Generation

Nancy Perry The Pepsi Generation MKTG305-01 Marketing Management Unit 4 Individual Project October 30, 2011 Abstract It takes many years to build a brand name. Pepsi is no exception. This paper discuses what Pepsi means in today’s market and how it has evolved over time. It also discusses the evolution of Pepsi’s target market and their competition. Celebrity endorsements can sell products and this paper discuses Pepsi’s endorsers as well as their competitions. The Pepsi Generation Introduction Pepsi Cola has been around since the 1893. Invented by pharmacist Caleb Bradham, Pepsi was originally named â€Å"Brad’s drink†, it was renamed Pepsi Cola about ten years later (Bellis, n. d. ). The Brand in Today’s Market Pepsi is found everywhere. It is known by everyone. What started out as a drink designed to be enjoyed and to help in digestion has turned into a conglomerate that encompasses so much of our lives, our vocabulary and so many products that we see in our pantries. Today the Pepsi brand more than just a soft drink. It is also breakfast, juices, teas, side dishes, snacks, cereals and oatmeal’s, energy drinks, and even water (Brands, 2011). Pepsi products are found in grocery stores, convenience stores, discount retail stores, and restaurants. The Pepsi logo is found on everything from children’s toys to racecars and is a recognizable symbol all over the world. The Brand’s Evolution Pepsi has come a long way since its creation in Caleb Bradhams kitchen. Pepsi Cola went bankrupt in 1923 and was later purchased by the Loft Candy Company who tried to sell it to Coca Cola. Pepsi’s first jingle was broadcast across the nation in 1940 (Bellis, n. d. ). in 1966 Pepsi is sold in Japan and Eastern Europe for the first time. In 1970, sales exceed the $1 billion mark with 36,000 employees (Our History, n. d. ). the 1980’s saw Pepsi become the largest beverage company in the world with more than 300,000 employees (Our History, n. d. ). By 1990, Pepsi had acquired Frito-Lay, Gamesa, Smarfood, Kentucky Fried Chicken, 7Up, and many other enterprises (Our History, n. d. ). The Brand’s Target Market: Today and Yesterday In the early years of Pepsi, the target market was limited to the customers who frequented Bradham’s Pharmacy in New Bern. Sometime around 1910, Pepsi started an ad campaign featuring women and celebrities (Caleb Bradham (1867-1934), 2011). This was a very successful move on Mr. Bradham’s part. Women have always been the deciding force behind household purchases, and celebrities grab the attention of the consumer. Pepsi’s target market today is geared for a younger crowd. The celebrities that are employed to be in today’s commercials are well known to the younger generation. Of course, commercials are not the only way Pepsi attracts young people. Pepsi sponsors concerts for musicians that are popular with young people. They provide scholarships, arrange educational trips, they give away items like bicycles, cd players t-shirts, and concert tickets (Pepsi Market Targeting, 2010). Positioning Of Competitors Pepsi’s biggest competitor is Coca Cola. Positioning by distribution would not help Coca Cola since Pepsi is found virtually everywhere Coca Cola is found. Price positioning also would not help Coca Cola because their prices are about the same as Pepsi. Benefit positioning is a good way for Coca Cola to position itself in the minds of consumers but Pepsi has one thing going for it that Coca Cola does not: Pepsi has food products in its list of goods and Coca Cola does not. Target positioning is Coca Cola’s strongest method. They target the same young people that Pepsi does, the 15-25 year old range (Target Market of Coca Cola, 2010). Coca Cola targets upper lower and lower class students and family oriented people with busy life styles who are fun loving and who loves entertainment. They are looking for people who are part of the mobile generation who are on the go and enjoy listening to music and watching television (Target Market of Coca Cola, 2010). Coca Cola and Pepsi and similar products but they do have their differences. Advertising reinforces these differences, which can affect sales and pricing. Advertising also protects the brands from their competition. However, there is a downside; an increase in competitive advertising can have an undesirable effect on the overall sales of each of the brands (Linton, 2011). The Celebrity Face of the Brand: The Fit and the Target In 1984, advertising history was made as Michael Jackson and his brothers appear in Pepsi commercials. Other celebrities like Lionel Richie, Tina Turner and Michael J. Fox soon followed in Pepsi commercials (Our History, n. d. ). Rap singer MC Hammer and Ray Charles appeared in commercials in 1991. All of the celebrity endorsers for Pepsi were chosen to reach a specific target market. Britney Spears and Beyonce were chosen to reach the younger generation just as Michael Jackson was some twenty years earlier. Ray Charles was chosen to reach older consumers who grew up in the ‘50’s and ‘60’s. Other Possible Endorsers for the Brand Pepsi has done a good job keeping up with the times, utilizing the celebrity status of the most popular and well-known people to sell their product. According to TV Guide, the three most popular celebrities are Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, and Mariah Carey. All three have appeared in Pepsi Commercials. Natalie Portman, Hilary Duff, and Zooey Deschanel have never endorsed Pepsi and would reach their target audience. Hilary Duff is a good choice because of her association with the Disney Channel. Young girls look up to her and young boys think she is pretty. Natalie Portman, whose fame skyrocketed with the release of the Star Wars prequel trilogy, would also make an excellent choice for Pepsi commercials. Zooey Deschanel is appealing to young people because she is an actress, a musician, a singer and a songwriter. The Competitors’ Endorsers Paris Hilton, LeBron James, and Christina Aguilera have all endorsed Coca Cola. However, Coca Cola tends to choose more athletic endorsers, like speed skater Apolo Ohno, and Olympic hockey player Angela Ruggiero (Coca-Cola's Olympic endorsers, 2011). Coca Cola looks for more active athletic people, who are in good, physical condition. Perhaps because they want Coca Cola to be associated with a healthy lifestyle. They do have healthier alternatives than Coca Cola itself like juices and teas. Conclusion It is common knowledge that celebrities affect brand positioning. Advertising reinforces the brands image and helps to protect it in the brand’s market share from their competitors (Linton, 2011). References Bellis, M. (n. d. ). The History of Pepsi Cola. Retrieved October 28, 2011, from About. com: http://inventors. about. om/library/inventors/blpepsi. htm Brands. (2011). Retrieved October 29, 2011, from PepsiCo: http://www. pepsico. com/Brands. html Caleb Bradham (1867-1934). (2011). Retrieved October 29, 2011, from North Carolina History Project: http://www. northcarolinahistory. org/encyclopedia/113/entry Coca-Cola's Olympic endorsers. (2011). Retrieved October 30, 2011, from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: http://proje cts. ajc. com/gallery/view/business/020510coke_athletes/ Linton, I. (2011, June 06). Does Advertising Affect Brand Management? Retrieved October 30, 2011, from eHow Money: http://www. ehow. om/info_8548285_advertising-affect-brand-management. html Our History. (n. d. ). Retrieved October 28, 2011, from PepsiCo: http://www. pepsico. com/Company/Our-History. html Pepsi Market Targeting. (2010, January 13). Retrieved October 29, 2011, from About. com: http://inventors. about. com/library/inventors/blpepsi. htm Target Market of Coca Cola. (2010, June 14). Retrieved October 29, 2011, from Zimbio: http://www. zimbio. com/Coca-Cola/articles/AQ1BESn41bA/Target+Market+of+Coca+Cola TV Guide Most Popular Celebrities. (2011). Retrieved October 29, 2011, from TV Guide: http://www. tvguide. com/top-celebrities

The Geography of Russias 21 Republics

The Geography of Russia's 21 Republics Russia, officially called the Russian Federation, is located in Eastern Europe and stretches from its borders with Finland, Estonia, Belarus, and Ukraine through the Asian continent where it meets Mongolia, China and the Sea of Okhotsk. At approximately 6,592,850 square miles, Russia is the worlds largest country based on area. Russia is so large that it covers 11 time zones. Because of its large size, Russia is divided into 83 federal subjects (members of the Russian Federation) for local administration throughout the country. Twenty-one of those federal subjects are considered republics. A republic in Russia is an area that is comprised of people who are not of Russian ethnicity. Russias republics are thus able to set their official languages and establish their constitutions. The following is a list of Russias republics ordered alphabetically. The republics continental location, area, and official languages have been included for reference. Adygea Continent: EuropeArea: 2,934 square miles (7,600 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Adyghe Altai Continent: AsiaArea: 35,753 square miles (92,600 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Altay Bashkortostan Continent: EuropeArea: 55,444 square miles (143,600 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Bashkir Buryatia Continent: AsiaArea: 135,638 square miles (351,300 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Buryat Dagestan Continent: EuropeArea: 19,420 square miles (50,300 sq km)Official Languages: Russian, Aghul, Avar, Azeri, Chechen, Dargwa, Kumyk, Lak, Lezgian, Nogai, Rutul, Tabasaran, Tat and Tsakhur Chechnya Continent: EuropeArea: 6,680 square miles (17,300 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Chechen Ingushetia Continent: EuropeArea: 1,351 square miles (3,500 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Ingush Kabardino-Balkaria Continent: EuropeArea: 4,826 square miles (12,500 sq km)Official Languages: Russian, Kabardian and Balkar Kalmykia Continent: EuropeArea: 29,382 square miles (76,100 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Kalmyk Karachay-Cherkessia Continent: EuropeArea: 5,444 square miles (14,100 sq km)Official Languages: Russian, Abaza, Cherkess, Karachay and Nogai Karelia Continent: EuropeArea: 66,564 square miles (172,400 sq km)Official Language: Russian Komi Continent: EuropeArea: 160,580 square miles (415,900 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Komi Mari El Continent: EuropeArea: 8,957 square miles (23,200 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Mari Mordovia Continent: EuropeArea: 10,115 square miles (26,200 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Mordvin Sakha Continent: AsiaArea: 1,198,152 square miles (3,103,200 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Sakha North Ossetia-Alania Continent: EuropeArea: 3,088 square miles (8,000 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Ossetic Tatarstan Continent: EuropeArea: 26,255 square miles (68,000 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Tatar Tuva Continent: AsiaArea: 65,830 square miles (170,500 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Tuvan Udmurtia Continent: EuropeArea: 16,255 square miles (42,100 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Udmurt Khakassia Continent: AsiaArea: 23,900 square miles (61,900 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Khakass Chuvashia Continent: EuropeArea: 7,065 square miles (18,300 sq km)Official Languages: Russian and Chuvash

SAT Percentiles and Score Rankings (Updated 2018)

SAT Percentiles and Score Rankings (Updated 2018) SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Have you taken the SAT recently and need help deciding whether you should retake the test? Or maybe you haven’t taken the SAT yet but want to develop a target score. One of the best ways to understand your SAT scores is to understand your SAT score percentiles. You can learn to maximize your study time, find the biggest score gains, and impress your dream school by understanding percentile rankings. Read on for a guide to maximizing your SAT score- and your college admissions chances- by using SAT score percentiles. Bonus: Want to get a perfect SAT score? Read our famous guide on how to score a perfect 1600 on the SAT. You'll learn top strategies from the country's leading expert on the SAT, Allen Cheng, a Harvard grad and perfect scorer. No matter your level, you'll find useful advice here - this strategy guide has been read by over 500,000 people. Read the 1600 SAT guide today and start improving your score. What Are SAT Score Percentiles? In addition to the composite score you get on the SAT (i.e., that number between 400 and 1600), you'll get a percentile ranking, ranging from 1 to 99. The SAT gives you a percentile ranking for your overall composite score as well as for each of the twosection scores: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math. Your percentile tells you how you did on the SAT compared with everyone else who took the test. For example, if you got a composite percentile of 76, this means you scored higher than 76% of students on the whole test. If you got a percentile of 47 on the Math section, you did better than 47% of students on SAT Math. An example of an SAT score report with percentiles. Your percentile score is not like a grade out of 100.For instance, if you get a percentile of 90, this doesn't mean you got exactly 90% of the questions right. It just means that compared with everyone who took the SAT, you scored higher than 90% of them. (For more info on how the SAT is scored, see our scoring guide.) So, why do percentiles matter? Colleges use percentiles to compare you with other students. If you got, say, an SAT score in the 90thpercentile, this would make you competitive for many schools since you scored better than 90% of students nationwide. Paying attention to your percentile ranking, as well as your composite score, can give you the best idea of your performance and help you make strategic choices about which colleges to apply to. What Are the Percentile Ranges for the SAT? OK, so you get that percentile rankings are important. But if you haven’t taken the SAT yet or have taken it and plan to retake it, what composite SAT score should you shoot for in order to get a certain percentile ranking? Luckily, the College Board releases data about composite scores and matching percentile rankings to help you figure this out. These numbers change slightly from year to year, but we have the most recent info from 2018. We've summarized the SAT percentile ranges here in a percentile chart. Just find your score to see your estimated percentile. SAT Composite Score Range Percentile Score 1550-1600 99+ 1500-1550 99 to 99+ 1450-1500 97 to 99 1400-1450 94 to 97 1350-1400 91 to 94 1300-1350 87 to 91 1250-1300 81 to 87 1200-1250 74 to 81 1150-1200 67 to 74 1100-1150 58 to 67 1050-1100 49 to 58 1000-1050 39 to 49 950-1000 31 to 39 900-950 23 to 31 850-900 15 to 23 800-850 10 to 15 750-800 5 to 10 700-750 2 to 5 650-700 1 to 2 600-650 1- to 1 550-600 1- 500-550 1- 450-500 1- 400-450 1- Something to note about these percentile ranks is that they change the fastest with the middle scores. For example, the difference between 1450 and 1600- the highest possible score- is only 3 percentile points, 98 to 99. However, the same point gap between 1100 and 1250 has a vast percentile difference- 58 to 81. This means that if you scored 1100 or lower, increasing your overall composite by just 150 points would give a vast boost to your percentile rank and your admissions competitiveness! Did you know boosting your SAT score by 160 points can dramatically change your chances of getting into your dream school?We've written a guide about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now: SAT Percentile Charts by Section We also have data on percentile rankings for score ranges in EBRW and Math. Check out the chart below to see how your scores stack up. Section Score Range SAT EBRW Percentiles SAT Math Percentiles 780-800 99+ 98 to 99+ 760-780 99 to 99+ 97 to 98 740-760 98 to 99 96 to 97 720-740 97 to 98 94 to 96 700-720 94 to 97 92 to 94 680-700 92 to 94 89 to 92 660-680 88 to 92 86 to 89 640-660 84 to 88 83 to 86 620-640 78 to 84 79 to 83 600-620 72 to 78 75 to 79 580-600 66 to 72 69 to 75 560-580 59 to 66 64 to 69 540-560 52 to 59 57 to 64 520-540 45 to 52 49 to 57 500-520 38 to 45 40 to 49 480-500 31 to 38 34 to 40 460-480 25 to 31 28 to 34 440-460 19 to 25 22 to 28 420-440 14 to 19 17 to 22 400-420 9 to 14 13 to 17 380-400 6to 9 9 to 13 360-380 3 to 6 6 to 9 340-360 2 to 3 3 to 6 320-340 1 to 2 1 to 3 300-320 1- to 1 1 280-300 1- 1- to 1 260-280 1- 1- 240-260 1- 1- 220-240 1- 1- 200-220 1- 1- Source:SAT Understanding Scores 2018 Again, note that the percentile ranks change dramatically toward the middle scores: 500 in EBRW is only 38%, but 600 is 72%. In other words, a 100-point improvement- which is very manageable with some smart studying- could transform your score from poorto good. Note that the Math curve is more competitive near the top than the EBRW curve is. A 750 is in the 96thpercentile on Math but in the 99thpercentile on EBRW, and a 700 is in the 92ndpercentile on Math but in the 94thpercentile on EBRW. This means that if you were aiming for the same percentile on both sections, you'd have to get a higher score on Math than you would on EBRW. For more info on SAT scores and rankings, check out our guide to average SAT scoresin which we also look at score breakdowns by gender and ethnic group. How Can Knowing Your SAT Percentile Help You? We know that percentiles are important and that, in some cases, a relatively small composite score increase can have a huge effect on your percentile ranking. However, your target composite score for the colleges you want to apply to is the most important. While percentiles help college admissions officers compare your scores, schools also have their own score ranges that typically don’t change much from year to year. To find a college’s SAT score ranges, search â€Å"[School Name] SAT scores PrepScholar† on Google to find our Admission Requirements page with its SAT/ACT score ranges and info on GPA ranges and overall competitiveness. For more tips on how to use this strategy (and for a table you can fill out for your specific colleges), see our guide onwhat a good SAT score is. Maximize your study time by setting a personal SAT target score. Finally, SAT percentile rankings can be a useful tool for you. Especially if you’re deciding whether or not to retake the SAT, percentiles really help put your SAT scores in context. For example, the difference between your 700 in EBRW and 600 in Math might not seem enormous, but that EBRW score is in the 94th percentile, while that Math score is in the 75th percentile. A huge difference! This means you can get more bang for your buck if you focus on the Math section for your retake. Increasing your Math score by 100 points can raise your percentile from 75 to 92. However, raising your EBRW score from 700 to 800, though super impressive, only improves your percentile ranking by 5%. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should ignore EBRW- in fact, a gain of just 50 points would put you in the 99th percentile! But recognizing that you stand to gain more with Math can ultimately help you prioritize your study time better. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points? Tired of wasting time prepping in ways that don't work? We have the industry's leading SAT prep program. Built by Harvard grads and SAT full scorers, the program learns your strengths and weaknesses through advanced statistics, then customizes your prep program to you so you get the most effective prep possible. It's the best prep program available right now. Best of all, we guarantee your money back if you don't improve your score by 160 points or more. Check out our 5-day free trial today: Improve Your SAT Score by 160+ Points, Guaranteed What’s Next? Now that you know the ins and outs of national SAT percentiles, check out what the average SAT scores are, and take a look at the average SAT scores in your state. Trying to figure out your SAT target score? Or maybe you took the SAT but aren't sure whether your score is competitive. Our guide can help you develop a personal SAT target score based on the colleges you're applying to. Reaching for the stars? Check out what a good SAT score for the Ivy League looks like. Want to learn more about the SAT but tired of reading blog articles? Then you'll love our free SAT prep livestreams. Designed and led by PrepScholar SAT experts, these live video events are a great resource for students and parents looking to learn more about the SAT and SAT prep. 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Investigate the root causes of major Engineering disasters that have Essay

Investigate the root causes of major Engineering disasters that have occurred since 1800 - Essay Example In engineering, most disasters that have occurred portray a possibility of overlooking one or more provisions of safety with some being caused by poor decision-making and ignorance. The Chernobyl Power plant disaster The Chernobyl Nuclear power plant disaster of April 26, 1986 although blamed on negligence on the part of operators had some engineering aspects that could have contributed in the disaster, in addition to the operation negligence. The Chernobyl plant used RBMK reactors that have been blamed for a number of negative features that may compromise the safety of the reactors and their operations. The RBMK reactors have neutron fields with high sensitivity levels towards movement of control rods, which results from having a high number of absorbers in the reactor core aimed at compensating for any extra reactivity (Malko, 1991). When some absorbers are withdrawn, especially affecting most of the absorbers in the peripheral zones, there results a local criticality. Moreover, RB MK reactors involve occurrence of huge positive reactivity that leads to a reduction of the period required to achieve stabilization of the power produced at the core to about 3 minutes (Medvedev, 1990). These factors make operations of a RBMK reactor problematic and uncertain in maintaining the safety of the reactor. Frankel (2010) observed that the Chernobyl reactor was designed to use graphite moderators that were typically unsafe, in addition to use of graphite rods. As a result, any possible loss of water in such a RBMK reactor posed great danger. Contrary to the operations of Pressurized Water Reactors (PWR), any water that circulates in the pipe network is only required to serve the purpose of cooling the reactor core only and not to moderate the core and cool it (Frankel, 2010). In PWR reactor cores, removal of the core cooling water would cause the entire chain reaction to abort. However in an RBMK-0100 reactor such as the one used in Chernobyl, in case water is lost due to closure of the supplying pumps as was the case, the graphite moderating rods continue to propagate and facilitate nuclear chain reactions (Frankel, 2010). Such mechanism, when considered alongside the loss of cooling water in the nuclear reactor core, would lead to overheating of the core in the shortest time possible. In such a case, the event of a core meltdown becomes the only possible event. In addition, in the Chernobyl RBMK reactors, the control rods were not designed as drastic safety features. Control rods are necessary for absorbing neutrons towards reducing or stopping chain reactions from taking place. However, in the Chernobyl RBMK reactors, control rods required about 20 seconds to reach the bottom of the core from their highest position (Medvedev, 1991). This was contrary to modern reactors that have well designed control rods, which  require one second or less, to reach the core of a nuclear reactor stopping any chain reaction. Therefore, in Chernobyl nuclear react or, the design and engineering of the entire core overlooked key safety mechanisms that could have prevented possible meltdown. The result of overlooking these safety considerations was the 1986 disaster. This was

Indecent Behavior Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Indecent Behavior - Essay Example 439). The attraction towards indecency through media is increasing day by day. Studies concerned with internet utilization prove that the sites which provide access to sexual materials have great popularity among the internet users. There is the great threat that the children may easily get exposed to indecent content and in order to prevent it the congress enacted the Communications Decency Act of 1996. It prohibited anyone from knowingly transmitting any indecent communication to persons under the age of 18, through a telecommunications device (Lively & Weaver, 2006, P. 149). The society is a deciding factor in determining what is right and what is wrong. Social changes occurring in one’s society can alter one’s attitude and behaviors. Say for people have different opinions about the homosexuality. Some are totally against it while the other group gives consent mentally. Certain countries’ legal systems make the particular group see themselves as wronged and pe rsecuted and it relieves their feeling of guilt. It is because of the police that homosexuals often regard themselves as unfairly treated minority group (Nardi & Schneider, 1998, p.