Anhydrous Compound Definition and Examples

Anhydrous Compound Definition and Examples Anhydrous literally means no water. In chemistry, substances without water are labeled anhydrous. The term is most often applied to crystalline substances after the water of crystallization is removed. Anhydrous can also refer to the gaseous form of some concentrated solutions  or pure compounds. For example, gaseous ammonia is called anhydrous ammonia to distinguish it from its aqueous form. Gaseous hydrogen chloride is called anhydrous hydrogen chloride to distinguish it from hydrochloric acid. Anhydrous solvents are used to perform certain chemical reactions that, in the presence of water, either cannot proceed or yield unwanted products. Examples of reactions with anhydrous solvents include the Wurtz reaction and the Grignard reaction. Examples Anhydrous substances exist in solid, liquid, and gas forms. Table salt is anhydrous sodium chloride (NaCl).Gaseous HCl is anhydrous, which differentiates it from hydrochloric acid, a solution of 37 percent HCl in water (w/w).Heating copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate (CuSO4 ·5H2O) yields anhydrous copper(II) sulfate (CuSO4). How Anhydrous Chemicals Are Prepared The method of preparation depends on the chemical. In some cases, simply applying heat can drive off water. Storage in a desiccator can slow rehydration. Solvents may be boiled in the presence of a hygroscopic material to prevent water from returning to the solution.

Sample Recommendation Letter for Fellowship Applicant

Sample Recommendation Letter for Fellowship Applicant A good recommendation letter can help you stand out among other fellowship applicants. You will most likely need at least two letters of recommendation as part of the application process. The best recommendations will come from people who know you well and can offer specific information about you as a student, person, or employee. The sample recommendation letter shown below has been reprinted (with permission) from EssayEdge.com, which did not write or edit this sample recommendation letter. However, it is a good example of how a business recommendation should be formatted for a fellowship application. Sample Recommendation Letter for a Fellowship To Whom It May Concern: I am proud to recommend a beloved student, Kaya Stone, for your fellowship program. I was asked to write as one who has functioned in the capacity of an employer of Kaya, but I would first like to say a few words about him as a student. Kaya is a highly intelligent, perceptive young man. He came to our institution committed to capitalizing on the opportunity of his third year of study in Israel, and he left with the satisfaction of having accomplished that goal. Kaya grew in learning, in character, in his depth of understanding. He seeks truth in each area of his life, whether in learning, discussing philosophy, or relating to his fellow students and his teachers. Because of his positive disposition, his reflective way of operating, and all of the character traits that make him so special, Kaya’ s questions never go unanswered, and his searches always bring him to exciting discoveries. As a student, Kaya is outstanding. As an educator, I have watched him grow, seen his talents and abilities not only in the classroom but outside its walls when interacting with all types of people as well. During his time at our institution, Kaya, who as I’m sure you know is an excellent writer and publicist, also has done a good deal of work for the yeshiva. This has included the text for many public relations brochures and packets, letters to parents, potential donors, and alumni, and essentially any correspondence which I have requested that he compose. The feedback is always overwhelmingly positive, and he has done so much in that way for our yeshiva. Even today, while he studies elsewhere, he continues to do a great deal of this work for our institution, in addition to the recruiting and other services he performs for the yeshiva. Always, in his work, Kaya is consistent, dedicated and passionate, enthusiastic, cheerful, and a pleasure to work with. He has incredible creative energies and a refreshing idealism tempered only enough to accomplish what needs to be done. I highly recommend him for any position of work, leadership, education, or any other capacity in which he can spread his excitement and share his talents with others. At our institution, we are expecting big things from Kaya in the way of educational and communal leadership in the years to come. And knowing Kaya, he will not disappoint, and probably will exceed our expectations. Thank you once again for the opportunity to recommend such a special and impressive young man. Sincerely Yours, Steven RudensteinDean, Yeshiva Lorentzen Chainani

Management in a Globailsed world Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 3

Management in a Globailsed world - Assignment Example Globalization in business results to free trades that create a way for economic growth by creating jobs brings the point of competition between companies which result to reduction in prices to cover a bigger market demand. Globalization opens up opportunities for poor countries that see through democracy and human rights. Globalization and democracy should go together to increase the global economy by promoting mutual trust and respect. The two power blocks will promote business for the involved countries. This will create an international market for consumers of different countries (Gore, 2013). Globalization in business gradually creates world’s power by promoting unity in the world by merging of political powers and common pool of decision making. By creating a common pool of decision making benefit the world as compared to compartmentalized power sectors. Globalization promotes interconnection and hence, benefits many countries to share information. With sharing of information, result to the sharing and borrowing of cultural activities between different countries (Gore, 2013). The purpose for global changes is to promote globalization through government and originations sharing of common financial interests in business. Globalization have resulted to social tolerance with people of different countries and therefore promoting world wide economy. Speeds in interconnection and sharing of information through internet are promoted by globalization (Gore, 2013). Differences exist between native countries and immigrants in relations to job openings and political illustration. Youth of marginal ethnic background encounter sidelining when participating in the job market. Furthermore, minority ethnic employees are under-embodied in economic and political domains. There is an wide-ranging records on the causes why people might be willing to work overseas. Core backgrounds encompasses an individual’s family and

Global supply chain and Future Sustainable development Essay

Global supply chain and Future Sustainable development - Essay Example Supply chain management is coupled with modeling the product market and identifying the niche. This allows the producer to understand the scheduling of production and supply. The shift allowing more developing countries to produce market goods has favored China’s market growth. This is because China has low overhead cost when it comes to factors of production such as labor. Though the trend is opposed because of its implications such as child labor, environmental concerns among others this has not deterred its growth. Stakeholders demand constant and reliable supply of goods and services which developing countries are able to provide. The global supply chain taking to use developing countries to produce its goods has spurred speedy development. Large international firms have to assess the market for its goods before establishing a network of outlets. This includes data collection in order to create a framework of regions where the product is in actual demand. Also, firms have to adopt social, environmental and economic goals for the benefit of the developing country. Though, there has been a failure of some firms failing to meet their obligations. The development of sustainable global is a three-stage process. The first step is identifying the motivators. This covers the reason as to why global supply chains would work effectively. Is it the overwhelming unquenched market? Is it the availability of ready and cheap labor? The second stage covers assessing levers. This includes balancing various factors such as expenses against profit when the new strategy is implemented. Will networking increase the profits to the desired level and if so, will the current supply chain be able to accommodate market collapse. The factors are summarized into seven principles, which include, aim, policy, management, industry collaboration, partners accepting such change,

Philippines and International Trade Essay Example for Free

Philippines and International Trade Essay What is International trade? International trade is defined as trade between two or more partners from different countries in the exchange of goods and services. In order to understand International trade, we need to first know and understand what trade is, which is the buying and selling of products between different countries. International Trade simply globalization the world and enable countries to obtain products and services from other countries effortlessly and expediently. International trade has been in existence throughout history and has an economic impact on the articipating countries. Trade in most countries has a share of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and helps to boost the countrys overall economy on a yearly basis. International Trade for the Philippines is available only to chosen business and companies and is declining, because we import more goods than we export, which affects our countrys economy. Economic development in Philippine economy has been because of high government spending. A hard working service sector and large allowance from millions of Filipinos working abroad played an important role in Philippine economic development. Since the former president Macapagal-Arroyo came into power in 2001 there has been an economic growth of 5%. Still, the Philippines need a further increase in growth rate in order to sustain economic growth. More economic development is required to lessen poverty in the country and address imbalances in distribution of income. It also stresses on high population growth. This paper discusses the uncertain economic status of the Philippines, in terms of its stand in the world market, and its relationship with other countries. The need for new investors and lessen unemployment will be the point of discussion.

Figure Of Christ In lord Of The Flies :: essays research papers

"CHRIST" IN LORD OF THE FLIES Many critics have compared the character of Simon in the book Lord of the Flies to a Christ figure. After reading this book I also found out that Simon and Christ had a lot in common. The first time we, readers start considering Simon a special person, different from the others is when we see him the only one to helping the littluns to gather fruits they were unable to reach. "Simon found for them the fruit they could not reach, pulled off the choicest from up in the foliage, passed them back down to the endless, outstretched hands." (p.51) So we know about Jesus -- carrying about starving and suffering. After Christ was baptized he walked away to the desert and stayed there for forty days, meditating and praying. So did Simon. He felt better walking in the jungle alone, thinking, probably, dreaming, enjoying the power and the beauty of the nature. In that desert Christ also talked to God and I think it was the God's appeal to Simon when the large ray of light fell down from the sky. "Beyond the screen of leaves the sunlight pelted down and the butterflies danced in the middle their unending dance."(p.120) Simon did not fear it and he faced it. As Christ facing God, Simon knelt. Physical help to people was not the main task of Christ -- he taught, gave sermons, appealed to clear their souls and thoughts - to get rid of internal evil. As well Simon was the only one who supposed that the beast they were so afraid of was, probably, inside them. "What I mean is . . . maybe it's only us." (p.80) God chose Christ from all others to fulfill the most important task because Jesus was sinless and saint. Simon was the only one on that island with clear soul and the good inside him without any ambitions of power and suppression. So it was his destiny and privedge to confront the "beast" first and to talk to it The Lord of the Flies told Simon that the evil was inside the boys and for that reason - invinsible. It was trying to tempt Simon saying that he was initially good but everyone was going to have fun on the island so Simon has to quit being perfect and become like the rest of the boys.

Historical King Arthur Essay

King Arthur is one of the most well known historical figures of all time. One of the most interesting debates surrounding the legends and tales of King Arthur is whether or not he truly existed. The debate has its roots in the Renaissance time when Arthur’s existence was defended as the basis for the Tudor monarchs to trace their ancestry back to King Arthur as a way to hold onto their reign. Modern historians argue that a King Arthur may have existed though he was not the same King Arthur in the much loved legends and tales that have been passed down from generation to generation. This debate will continue as there has been no logical proof that King Arthur did actually exist (The Camelot Project, 1). At the same time, the influence of King Arthur will remain an important part of history as well. King Arthur has had a significant influence on literature, art, music and society as far back as the Middle Ages. The legend of Arthur projects him as a great legendary British king born to Uther Pendragon and Igraine. Some versions of the legend also include information regarding three half sisters of Arthur. Arthur married Guinevere and legend says they had no children together although Arthur did father children. Some versions of the Arthur legend contend that Perlesvaus was fathered by Arthur and Guinevere but other versions say this is not so (Joe, 1). Further, in various versions of the legend, Arthur’s son had different names. One legend states that Arthur killed his son while another says his son died after being attacked by a wild boar (Joe, 1). These ancestorial facts are unclear and vary across different versions of the legends which is perhaps one reason why the existence of a real King Arthur is so heavily debated. There has been no archeological evidence that a real King Arthur ever existed. Without absolute proof it is difficult to separate potential facts from the many legends that surround King Arthur (Joe, 1). Perhaps the reason why the legend of King Arthur is so popular is because King Arthur was a bright light in the face of treachery and darkness (Snell, 1). King Arthur brought peace to his land by defending it from every danger and also expanding his empire to encompass great amounts of land. Under the command of King Arthur, a group of knights helped the helpless, battled evil and scoured the land for holy relics. The courageous nature of King Arthur makes him a true hero that many generations of people have looked up to. He gave people hope in sorrowful times by being the type of ruler that looked out for the weak and the poor. Despite the fact that King Arthur is so loved and admired, he remains a legend. There is no existing proof that can provide without a doubt that King Arthur is a true historical figure. Instead, the legend of King Arthur will remain a legend (Snell, 1). The vast amount of literature and other media that focus on King Arthur may cause some people to assume that these stories are based in part on fact. However, there is no evidence that any of the facts surrounding the legend of King Arthur are true. Part of the reason why so many people assume that King Arthur is a true historical figure may be based on The History of the Kings of Britain which details the life and rule of the exalted King Arthur (Snell, 1). This historical document provides so many in depth details about King Arthur that many find it hard to argue with. However, the reference for this document has never been found so the facts included within cannot be proven. Further, some are of the opinion that the author of this document, Geoffrey of Monmouth, wrote the history in order to make others view his people in a more positive light (Snell, 1). There are many scholarly facts that aid in disproving the actual existence of King Arthur. These are the facts that enable King Arthur to keep his place in history as one of the most noble and well loved kings of all time. Legend holds that King Arthur was able to single handedly lead an assault that left nine hundred dead and allowed him to reign as king for nearly one hundred years. Legend also holds that King Arthur fought giants and strange beasts and was led by a red dragon (Ogden-Korus, 1). Since none of these mythological creatures or fantastic feats are possible, it can be assumed that King Arthur is a legend as well. This leads to the goal of many scholars. They wish to uncover facts that may prove whether there really was a King Arthur behind all the folklore (Ogden-Korus, 1). So far, they have been unsuccessful in proving that King Arthur ever did exist so he remains a legend to this day. In order to find proof of King Arthur, many archeologists have attempted to find concrete evidence that can be directly traced to the legendary king. There is very little evidence in Britain that can be traced back to the time of King Arthur. For example, the primary building tool during King Arthur’s time was wood, which completely decomposes over time and would not provide any proof of the existence of King Arthur. Further, the field of archeology cannot deal with specifics (Ogden-Korus, 1). Instead, archeologists analyze existing evidence and make educated guesses regarding ancient history. With regards to the place and times of King Arthur, these educated guesses have led to the conclusion that King Arthur is simply a legend. One of the most common associations with King Arthur is Camelot and the Knights of the Round Table. However, this connection cannot be considered fact. The legend of King Arthur is said to have lived during the sixth century but the creation of Camelot did not come into existence until the twelfth century when it became a part of literature (Ogden-Korus, 1). There are other more compelling discoveries that have aided in spreading the opinion that King Arthur did once exist. However, this evidence, while compelling, is not concrete. For example, Tintagel Castle, the alleged birthplace of King Arthur was a thirteenth century castle so it could not have existed during the time of King Arthur. However, in 1998, an archeological dig at Tintagel Castle uncovered a sixth century fort underneath the castle (Giger, 1). This evidence alone does not point to the existence of King Arthur. There are many sixth century forts in England and Wales and the discovery of this one does not provide concrete evidence that King Arthur ever existed – only that a sixth century fort existed where legend says that King Arthur was born (Giger, 1). This type of evidence is exciting and motivates historians and scholars to continue their search for evidence that King Arthur did exist. However, at this time no concrete evidence has been discovered to prove the King Arthur was anything more than a legend. Despite the fact that there is no definitive proof that King Arthur ever existed, there have been many myths that surround his name. Camelot is the perhaps the most well known myth that surrounds the legend of King Arthur. As previously discussed, Camelot did not come into existence until it was included in literature in the twelfth century (Ogden-Korus, 1). Camelot is the most well known and famous castle associated with King Arthur. Experts agree that Camelot is most likely a fictional place because its exact location is unknown. â€Å"Camelot, located no where in particular, can be anywhere† (Lacy, 67). The myth of Camelot has been allowed to spread because of how much people respect and admire the legend of King Arthur. The various versions of the myths surrounding King Arthur often contradict one another but people are willing to overlook such discrepancies because the writings about King Arthur are so captivating and entertaining (Miller, 1). People want to believe that such a magnificent person could really have existed so they get caught up in the myths surrounding King Arthur and begin to believe that he was a real person. Another myth that the legend of King Arthur has influenced is the legend of Lancelot, one of the Knights of the Round Table. Sir Lancelot is considered one of the best and one of the worst knights in the court of King Arthur (Sir Lancelot Online, 1). Lancelot is a creation of literature that emerged at the same time that Camelot did. In this portrayal, Lancelot becomes the most valuable knight of King Arthur. He was chivalrous and brave and accomplished many important tasks including rescuing Guinevere from Meleagant and once again rescuing her from being burned to death for committing adultery with him (Sir Lancelot Online, 1). Sir Lancelot helped contribute to the myths surrounding King Arthur because his heroic deeds made King Arthur look good. Ultimately, Lancelot betrays King Arthur by committing adultery with Guinevere but this too makes King Arthur look good because people pity him for the wrongs committed against him. Another important and famous myth surrounding King Arthur that has contributed to the admiration of many is his sword, Excalibur. Excalibur is said to have magical powers. Part of the reason why the myth of Excalibur makes King Arthur so admired is because some versions of the myth discuss how King Arthur pulled the sword from a stone thus making himself appear magical and strong. However, other versions of the myth keep Excalibur and the Sword in the Stone separate. The myth that includes King Arthur pulling the sword from the stone provides some with evidence that he was a true king because only a true king would be able to even pull the sword out of the stone. Other versions say that Excalibur was a sword the King Arthur obtained through Merlin from the Lady of the Lake (Ford, 1). The fact that King Arthur used such powerful weapons also provides a compelling reason why so many people believe in the power of King Arthur. These weapons are also part of the reason why King Arthur has survived throughout history as one of the most revered kings of all time. One final aspect of the legend of King Arthur that has enabled him to live throughout history is the myth of Merlin. Merlin is a well known wizard that mentored King Arthur. Merlin had supernatural powers and abilities and is said to have engineered the birth of King Arthur through his magical powers (Briggs, 440). The magical powers that surrounded Merlin were of enormous benefit to King Arthur because they enabled him to accomplish great things. These great things are what has allowed King Arthur to become as legendary as he remains today. King Arthur is a real historical figure in that many people truly believe that he actually existed. This belief has been passed down from generation to generation so that the legend of King Arthur has become real to so many people. The fantastic accomplishments that are credited to King Arthur make him a much loved and respected ruler. At the same time, the magic and mystic that surround King Arthur provide a sense of mystery that captivates people into believing the myths. These myths have allowed King Arthur to rise in prestige and remain so popular. However, there is no historical or archeological proof that King Arthur ever existed. If such proof is out there it has yet to be discovered. The fact that the legend of King Arthur is so well known and loved has allowed the myths associated with the legendary king to become valid parts of the King Arthur legend. For example, most people do not realize that Camelot and Lancelot are fictional creations that came into existence some five hundred years after the time of King Arthur. These myths have provided King Arthur with a reputation of greatness that cannot be based on historical fact. At the same time, there is no harm in allowing people to believe that King Arthur was real because in the hearts of many King Arthur was real. There is no definitive data to back this assumption up but this does not deter many people from believing in the existence of King Arthur. In the end, history has not proven that King Arthur truly existed but literature and movies have created a character that is so loved that he has become â€Å"real† and he will remain â€Å"real† as long as people continue to be captivated by the legend of the King Arthur and the myths that surround him. Briggs, Katharine Mary. An Encyclopedia of Fairies, Hobgoblins, Brownies, Boogies and Other Supernatural Creatures. New York: Pantheon Books, 1976. 440. Ford, David Nash. â€Å"Excalibur. † Brittania. 2000. 17 Feb 2009 . Giger, Remus. â€Å"In Search of†¦ King Arthur. † Associated Content. 2007. 17 Feb 2009 . Joe, Jimmy. â€Å"King Arthur. † Timeless Myths. 1999. 17 Feb 2009 . Lacy, Norris J. â€Å"Camelot. † The New Arthurian Encyclopedia. New York: Garland, 1991. 67. Miller, Michael D. â€Å"The True Story. † Camelot: The True Story. Moffat, CO: Rideout Publishing, 2008. Ogden-Korus, Erin. â€Å"An Archeological Quest for the ‘Real’ King Arthur. 1999. 17 Feb 2009 . Sir Lancelot Online. â€Å"Sir Lancelot of the Lake. † 17 Feb 2009 . Snell, Melissa. â€Å"The Truth of Arthur. A Legendary King. † About. com: Medieval History. 1999. 17 Feb 2009 . The Camelot Project. â€Å"Historical Arthur. † King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. 2001. 17 Feb 2009 .

Mexico vs. Us vs. Ifrs

pwc. com/mx/ifrs IFRS, US GAAP and Mexican FRS: similarities and differences* The Summary A comparison of IFRS, US GAAP and Mexican FRS pwc. com/mx/ifrs PricewaterhouseCoopers Mexico Mariano Escobedo 573, Col. Rincon del Bosque. C. P. 11580, Mexico, D. F. Tel. : 5263 6000 Fax: 5263 6010  © 2009 PricewaterhouseCoopers. All rights reserved. PricewaterhouseCoopers refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers Mexico, the network of member firms of PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited, each of which is a separate and independent legal entity. *connectedthinking is a trademark of PricewaterhouseCoopers. connectedthinking A closer look A sampling of differences This publication is designed to alert companies to the scope of accounting changes that IFRS conversion will bring and to stimulate executive thinking and preparation. With that in mind, the body of the publication provides an overview of some differences between IFRS, US GAAP and Mexican FRS(1). The differences with US GAAP included a re considered relevant because some Mexican entities may have had identified the differences between Mexican FRS and US GAAP for example for a listing in the US and might find helpful this reference.This section provides a summary of some of the similarities and differences discussed in more detail on the complete publication. No summary publication can do justice to the many differences of detail that exist between US GAAP, IFRS and Mexican FRS. Even if the guidance is similar, there can be differences in the detailed application, which could have a material impact on the financial statements. In this publication, we have focused on the measurement similarities and differences most commonly found in practice.When applying the individual accounting frameworks, readers must consult all the relevant accounting standards and, where applicable, their national law. Listed companies must also follow relevant securities regulations and local stock exchange listing rules. (1) Mexican Financ ial Reporting Standards – Mexican FRS. The references included herein are identified considering the new guidance effective from January 1, 2009 1 Revenue recognition Broad-based differences in the accounting for the provision of services (US GAAP generally prohibits the approach required by IFRS) may impact the timing of revenue recognition.Differences involving the separation of multiple deliverable arrangements into components, and the allocation of consideration between those components, may impact the timing of revenue recognition. Where differences exist, revenue may be recognized earlier under IFRS and Mexican FRS(1). The guidance in IFRS with respect to how customer loyalty programs are treated may drive significant differences. The incremental cost model that is permitted under US GAAP is not accepted under IFRS and Mexican FRS(1). 1) Mexican FRS requires following the IFRS guidance for revenue recognition as there is no specific standard in accordance with the frame work except for construction contracts where specific literature exists under Mexican FRS. When transitioning to IFRS, the accounting policy should be revisited. Expense recognitionshare-based payments Companies that issue awards that vest ratably over time (e. g. , 25% per year over a four-year period) may encounter accelerated expense recognition as well as a different total value to be expensed, for a given award, under IFRS and Mexican FRS (2).Income tax expense (benefit) related to share-based payments may be more variable under IFRS. There are differences as to when an award is classified as a liability or as a component of equity. Those differences can have profound consequences, since awards classified as liabilities require ongoing valuation adjustments through earnings each reporting period, leading to greater earnings volatility. (2) For Mexican FRS, the IFRS guidance for share based payments was followed until December 31, 2008, as there was no specific standard issued i n accordance with the framework.The new guidance applicable from 2009 is similar to IFRS. However, careful consideration should be given on the application of the new Mexican guidance as differences could arise in practice. Expense recognitionemployee benefits Under IFRS, companies may elect to account for actuarial gains/losses in a manner such that the gains/losses are permanently excluded from the primary statement of operations. Differing restrictions over how assets are valued for the purposes of determining expected returns on plan assets exist under IFRS.IFRS allows for the separation of certain components of net pension costs whereas US GAAP and Mexican FRS do not. The interest cost and return on assets components of pension cost may be reported as part of financing costs within the statement of operations under IFRS as opposed to operating income under US GAAP and Mexican FRS. Assets— nonfinancial assets Differences in the asset impairment testing model may result in assets being impaired earlier under IFRS and Mexican FRS. However, there are certain differences on the impairment testing under the three frameworks.The broad based requirement to capitalize development costs under IFRS and Mexican FRS (when certain criteria are met) creates the potential for differences compared with US GAAP, wherein development costs are generally expensed as incurred. IFRS prohibits (whereas US GAAP and Mexican FRS permit) the use of the lastin, first-out inventory-costing methodology. In addition, Mexican FRS accepts the inventory costing excluding the fixed overhead costs. IFRS and Mexican FRS do not have bright line testing criteria for the classification of leases (i. e. operating or finance (capital) leases). In addition, the three frameworks achieving sale/leaseback accounting and earlier gain recognition under sale/leaseback accounting are more frequent when reporting under Mexican FRS. 2 Assets— financial assets Many financing arrangements, such as asset securitizations, that achieved off balance sheet treatment (i. e. , derecognition) under US GAAP will require full or partial-balance sheet recognition under IFRS. Under Mexican FRS the requirements are very similar to IFRS but in practice the derecognition treatment could be achieved.Investments in unlisted equity securities generally need to be recorded at fair value under IFRS, whereas under US GAAP they are generally recorded at cost (except for certain industries that apply a fair value model). For Mexican FRS purposes, long-term investments in equity instruments where there is no control, significant influence or joint control are recorded at cost. Differences in the treatment of changes in estimates associated with certain financial assets carried at amortized cost may affect asset carrying values and reported earnings differently under the three accounting frameworks.Liabilities—taxes There are differences in the recognition and measurement criteria of uncert ain tax positions (i. e. , income tax contingencies) under IFRS, US GAAP and Mexican FRS. The physical location of inventory that has moved cross border within a consolidated group can impact tax expense differently under the three frameworks. Deferred taxes on intragroup profits are determined by reference to the buyer’s tax rate under IFRS. When reporting under US GAAP, any income tax effects resulting from intragroup profits are deferred at the seller’s tax rate. Mexican FRS is silent on this respect.Differences in the treatment of subsequent changes to certain previously established deferred taxes could result in less volatility in the statement of operations under IFRS and Mexican FRS. Liabilities-other Differences within the accounting for provisions, including differing thresholds as to when provisions are to be established, may lead to earlier recognition of expense under Mexican FRS. Specific communication to employees regarding the details of a restructuring plan is not required before the recognition of a provision under IFRS and Mexican FRS (which could accelerate the timing of expense recognition).Financial liabilities and equity Generally, warrants issued in the US can be net share settled and, hence, are classified as equity under US GAAP. Warrants of that nature would, under IFRS and Mexican FRS, be considered derivative instruments and would be marked to market through earnings. More instruments are likely to be classified as liabilities, as opposed to equity, under IFRS and Mexican FRS (e. g. , instruments with contingent settlement provisions). Because balance sheet classification drives the treatment of disbursements associated with the instruments in question, the classification differences would also impact earnings (i. . , the treatment of disbursements as interest expense as opposed to dividends). However, there are certain differences between IFRS and Mexican FRS. More instruments are likely to require bifurcation, result ing in treatment as two separate instruments under IFRS and Mexican FRS (i. e. , compound and convertible instruments being split between equity and liability classification). The split accounting under IFRS and Mexican FRS versus the singular accounting under US GAAP can create a significantly different balance sheet presentation while also impacting earnings.In addition, the result under Mexican FRS and under IFRS could be different even if in both cases the split accounting is achieved. 3 Derivatives and hedging While the hedging models under IFRS, US GAAP and Mexican FRS are founded on similar principles, there are a number of detailed application differences, some of which are more restrictive under IFRS and others of which are more restrictive under US GAAP and/or Mexican FRS. In relation to effectiveness testing, IFRS does not permit the shortcut method that is accepted under US GAAP and Mexican FRS.As a result, if hedge accounting is to be maintained on an uninterrupted basi s, current US GAAP and Mexican FRS reporting entities using the shortcut method will need to prepare documentation that supports hedge accounting (outside of the shortcut strategy), with said documentation in place no later than the transition date to IFRS. IFRS does not include a requirement for net settlement within the definition of a derivative, effectively resulting in more instruments being recognized as derivatives under IFRS.Hence, more instruments will be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value with adjustments through earnings and greater earnings volatility when reporting under IFRS. Consolidation The entities consolidated within the financial statements may vary with, generally, more entities consolidated under IFRS. IFRS focuses on a control-based model, with consideration of risks and rewards where control is not apparent. US GAAP utilizes a dual consolidation decision model, first assessing a variable interests model and then a voting control model.Mexican FRS fol lows a similar approach to IFRS, however certain differences exist. US GAAP is undergoing significant changes in converging with IFRS in this area. Companies will be required to present noncontrolling interests as part of equity following the implementation of new US GAAP guidance. Additionally, in the event of a loss of control, to the extent any ownership interest is retained, the new US GAAP guidance will require that the interest retained be remeasured at fair value on the date control is lost. Any resulting gain or loss will be recognized in earnings.This is similar to the accounting currently required under IFRS and Mexican FRS, except that the Mexican FRS guidance does not permit remeasurement to fair value on the date control is lost. Equity Method Mexican FRS requires analysing whether significant influence exists in Special Purpose Entities to apply the equity method to such investments, whereas this is not required for IFRS or USGAAP. For the preparation of separate finan cial statements (non- consolidated) the investment in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures should be valued using the equity method.IFRS requires to measure investment in subsidiaries, associates and/or joint ventures in separate financial statements at either cost or fair value (equity method is not permitted) Business combinations US GAAP is undergoing significant changes in converging with IFRS in this area. Upon the adoption of the new US GAAP guidance, many historical differences will be eliminated, although certain important differences will remain. Mexican FRS was revised considering the convergence with US GAAP and IFRS and is effective from January 1, 2009.The detailed section on the publication provides an example of such differences. 4 A helpful reminder Mexican FRS As from June 1, 2004, the Mexican Board for Research and Development of Financial Reporting Standards (CINIF for its acronym in Spanish) assumed the duties and responsibilities for issuance of Mexican F RS, activity that was carried out previously by the Mexican Institute of Public Accountants (IMCP for its acronym in Spanish). As its main project, the CINIF made a decision to conduct a study of IFRS and US GAAP to identify the most significant differences with a view to promoting its convergence.The first step was revising the framework as well as revising some old Mexican standards to adapt them closer to IFRS. The plan is to finish the revision of Mexican FRS by 2011. The standards previously issued by the IMCP were called â€Å"General Accepted Accounting Principles in Mexico† and the standards issued by the CINIF are called â€Å"Financial Reporting Standards† For the purpose of this publication all the Mexican guidance is considered Mexican FRS, when necessary the distinction is made by reference to old FRS or new FRS, otherwise the Mexican FRS refer to both and effective at the time of publishing this document.Mexican FRS framework requires following IFRS (as i ssued by the IASB) as suppletory, when no specific guidance is provided by Mexican FRS for a particular transaction or event. PwC Mexico has prepared a list of those IFRSs, including interpretations (SICs or IFRICs), that are considered suppletory for compliance with Mexican FRS. The analysis of the suppletory application of IFRS for Mexican FRS purposes is relevant as it could reduce the differences when transitioning to IFRS.However, care should be taken because in certain circumstances the full application of the suppletory IFRSs was not considered because of specific facts and circumstances of the transaction or event and the interaction with other Mexican FRSs. Therefore, more differences could arise in practice. 5 Standard/ Interpretation IAS 18 Title Revenue Summary This standard establishes the accounting treatment of the revenue arising from the ordinary activities of an entity and when revenue should be recognized. This standard also establishes the rules relative to the d ividend’s revenue recognition.Mexican FRS C-11 â€Å"Stockholder’s equity† establishes the concerning rules, so it would not be appropriate to apply the IAS 18 dispositions on this matter in a suppletory way. IAS 18 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1,1995. INTERPRETATIONS that are also consider as suppletory in connection with revenue recognition: – SIC 31 Revenue – Barter transactions involving advertising services, establishes the conditions for the recognition of revenue regarding barter transactions involving advertising services.This interpretation only applies to an exchange of dissimilar advertising services. An exchange of similar advertising services is not a transaction that generates revenue under IAS 18. This SIC is effective from December 31, 2001. – IFRIC 13 Customer loyalty programmes These programmes consist in the granting of benefits (points that might be redeemed for products or services of the own entity or third parties, discounts in subsequent purchases, prices, etc. to the clients as a part of a sales transaction. The IFRIC establishes that such benefits should be recognized separately from the sales transactions. This IFRIC is effective for periods beginning on or after July 1, 2008. IAS 20 Accounting for Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance This addresses the accounting and information to be disclosed on the grants from the government, as well as the aspects to be disclosed in relation to other forms of government assistances.This standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 1984. INTERPRETATION that is also consider as suppletory in connection with government grants: – SIC 10 â€Å"Government assistance- No specific relation to operating activities†, which establishes that the government assistances that are not related to the operating activities of the entity receiving them, should be recognized in t he income statement. This SIC is effective from August 1, 1998.IAS 26 Accounting and Reporting by Retirement Benefit Plans This Standard deals with accounting and reporting by the plan to all participants as a group. It does not deal with reports to individual participants about their retirement benefit rights. Retirement benefit plans may be defined contribution plans or defined benefits plans. This standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 1988. IAS 31 Interests in Joint VenturesThis establishes the guidance for the accounting of interests in joint ventures and the reporting of joint venture assets, liabilities, income and expenses in the financial statements of venturers and investors, regardless of the structures or forms under which the joint venture activities take place. However there are certain exceptions contained in the standards. Also, establishes that for jointly controlled entities, the proportional consolidation method should be applied , or alternatively the equity method to recognize the participation in such ventures.This standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2005. This version supersedes the one revised in 2000. INTERPRETATION that is also consider as suppletory in connection with joint ventures: – SIC 13 â€Å" Jointly Controlled Entities- Non-Monetary Contributions by Venturers†, The interpretation deals with the venturer? s accounting for non-monetary contributions to a JCE in exchange for an equity interest in the JCE that is accounted for using either the equity method or proportionate consolidation.SIC 13 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1,1999. 6 Standard/ Interpretation IAS 40 Title Investment property Summary This establishes the accounting treatment and disclosure requirements for investment properties defined as properties (lands, buildings, part of a building or both) held (by the owner or by the lessee under a finance le ase) to earn rentals of for capital appreciation or both, rather than for: (a) use in the production or supply of goods or services or for administrative purposes; or (b) sale in the ordinary course of business.The IAS 40 allows the use of one out of the two models proposed for valuation of the investment properties, these are: cost model and fair value model. The Mexican FRS Circular 55, â€Å"IAS 40 suppletory application – April 2001† issued by the IMCP, considers the IAS 40 as suppletory; but it is only accepted that the cost model is used for the recognition and measurement of the investment properties. IFRS 4 Insurance contractsThis standard specifies the financial information the insurers should present on the insurance and reinsurance contracts, as well as the recognition of the financial instruments with similar features issued by an entity, including matters such as: temporary exemption from the fulfillment with other IFRS (test of liabilities adequacy and im pairment of assets for reinsurance contracts), insurance contracts acquired in a business combination, etc.In Mexico, the entities belonging to the financial sector, including the insurers, prepare their financial information according to the rules issued by the CNBV which differ from the Mexican FRS so they should disclose this fact as well as the differences between such rules and the Mexican FRS, including the application of IFRS 4 as suppletory. This standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2005. IFRS 6 Exploration For and Evaluation of Mineral ResourcesThis establishes the accounting treatment for the expenditures related to exploration and evaluation of mineral resources as well as the requirement of performing impairment test to those assets. This standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2006. IFRIC 2 Member’s Shares in Cooperative Entities and Similar Instruments Determining Whether an Arrangement Conta ins a Lease This interpretation provides guidance on how to account financial instruments, including members? shares that have characteristics of equity, including voting rights to participate in dividend distributions.This IFRIC is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2005. Provides a guide to determine if some arrangement are or contain a lease, in which case the provisions in the IAS 17 â€Å"Leases† should be applied. IAS 17 is not suppletory in Mexico, therefore, if based on IFRIC 4 it is concluded that there is an arrangement, the provisions of the Statement D-5 â€Å"Leases† should be applied. This interpretation applies to accounting in the financial statements of a contributor for interests from decommissioning funds as well as the related obligations assumed in their financial statements.This interpretation is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2006. This Interpretation provides guidance on the recognition, in the financial statements of producers, of liabilities for waste management under the EU Directive. The IFRIC 6 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after December 1, 2005. IFRIC 4 IFRIC 5 Rights to Interests arising from Decommissioning, Restoration and Environmental Rehabilitation funds â€Å"Liabilities Arising From Participating in a Specific Market: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment IFRIC 6 7 Standard/ Interpretation IFRIC 12Title Service concession arrangements Summary This Interpretation gives guidance on the accounting by operators for public-toprivate service concession arrangements. The concessions covered within the scope of this IFRIC are those where: (a) the grantor controls or regulates what services the operator must provide with the infrastructure, to whom it must provide them, and at what price, and (b) the grantor controls-through ownership, beneficial entitlement of otherwise-any significant residual interest in the infrastructure at the end of the term of the arrangement.This Interpretation is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2008. Currently, there is an exposure draft (INIF 17) regarding an interpretation on service concession arrangement similar to IFRIC 12 and is expected to be effective from January 1, 2010. New Mexican FRS The following standards and interpretations were considered suppletory until new guidance under Mexican FRS was issued as explained below: Standard/ Interpretation Title Summary IFRS 2 Share-based payments This standard establishes the measurement, presentation and disclosure requirements to be followed in the event of share based payments.This standard is effective from annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2005 INTERPRETATIONS that were also consider as suppletory in connection with share based payments: IFRIC 8 â€Å"Scope of the IFRS 2†, clarifies that IFRS 2 applies to transactions in which the entity cannot identify specifically some or all the goods or services received as consideration for equity instruments of the entity. It is effective from May 1, 2006 IFRIC 11 â€Å"IFRS 2 – Group and treasury share transactions†, which establishes the accounting treatment of shared based payments of different entities in a group. It is effective from May 1, 2006.The Mexican FRS D-8 â€Å"Shared based payments† effective from January 1, 2009, eliminates the suppletory application of IFRS 2, IFRIC 8 and IFRIC 11 from that date. SIC 12 Consolidation – Special purpose entities (SPE) Establishes that an SPE should be consolidated when the substance of the relationship between an entity and the SPE indicates that the SPE is controlled by that entity. The Old Mexican FRS B-8 â€Å" Combined and consolidated financial statements and valuation of permanent share investments† does not consider the treatment for SPE? s therefore the interpretation is considered suppletory.The Mexican revised FRS B-8 â€Å"C ombined and consolidated financial statements† and the new Mexican FRS C-7 â€Å"Investment in associates and other permanent investments† (both effective from January 1, 2009) consider the consolidation of SPE? s in relation with subsidiaries and/or associates. Therefore, this new guidance eliminates the suppletory application of SIC 12 from January 1, 2009. 8 To have a deeper conversation about how this subject may affect your business, please contact: Alberto Del Castillo alberto. del. [email  protected] pwc. com Michelle Orozco michelle. [email  protected] pwc. com Armando Martinez martinez. [email  protected] pwc. com Ricardo Noriega ricardo. [email  protected] pwc. com Cecilia Versolatto cecilia. sandra. [email  protected] pwc. com Arturo Martinez arturo. [email  protected] pwc. com Rodrigo Ruvalcaba angel. [email  protected] pwc. com Equipo de consultores altamente especializados en aspectos tecnicos de metodologia de conversion a IFRS, comprobada e n mas de 1,300 conversiones en Mexico y en el mundo. Centro de excelencia de PwC Mexico en IFRS con experiencia desde hace 6 anos. Profesionales especializados en IFRS y con calificacion internacional. Mas informacion y publicaciones en nuestra pagina web: pwc. com/mx/ifrs

Strategy Context Report For Bang & Olufsen

Strategy Context Report For Bang & Olufsen Strategy Context Report For Bang Olufsen Introduction Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen founded Bang Olufsen A/S in 1925 in Jutland (Karjalainen 2011). Initially, Bang Olufsen (BO) was based in a manor that belonged to the parents of Svend Olufsen; at the time, the company benefited from the hardworking nature of the local community. The culture in which the two men grew up was one of the lasting factors that assisted the company to go through various crises. The company launched BO Eliminator as its first product. It could connect the battery receiver to the mains. Later, BO had a big break through when they launched the Five Lamper, which was a mains radio in an elegant cabinet of walnut. Presently, the company still focuses on the audio industry and it has engaged in the manufacture of visual devices (Alessandri Alessandri 2004). This makes BO one of the most successful audio/visual companies in the world. Their present main product line includes televisions, audio devices, loudspeakers, audio devices, home integration, and digital medi a. In addition, BO equips exclusive projects with audio/visual devices via their enterprise departments and develops Car-Hi-Fi for such companies as Aston Martin, Audi, Mercedes, etc. The company also benefits from patents in certain technology it developed. One example of such technologies is the compact digital amplifiers managed in the ICEpower subsidiary. This analysis will focus on the audiovisual part of the business of BO. Industry Overview According to Altshuler and Tarnovskaya (2010), the consumer electronics industry has undergone considerable changes and it is still highly turbulent. The implementation of Common Market due to the Rome Treaty, to begin with, forecasted the decline of Bang Olufsen due to the competing German companies. The entry of Asian technology into the worldwide market increased the pressure on all the electronic firms in North America and Europe. Small European companies like Bang Olufsen, with their main consumer base in Denmark, were not obvious survivors in the turbulent environment. Nevertheless, Bang Olufsen maintained their focus on quality production, which was their prerogative from the very establishment of the company. In addition, European electronic companies, including BO, placed more emphasis on modern technology. For instance, BO deployed a wide use of modern technology in manufacturing of its products due to the rising criticism of their traditional wooden design (Balmer Gray 2003). During the few recent years, the financial crisis affected the business worldwide (Bang Olufsen Group 2008). Various industries were experiencing recession. Private investors as well as companies and consumers had to deal with adverse economic conditions. Hence, various world markets were overheated in the recent years. In addition, industries also experienced growth rates that were far beyond the normal levels. According to Bloom and Williamson (1999), consumers had a large disposable income and were willing to spend it. However, this abruptly ended as the financial crisis began. The financial crisis crippled the manufacturing and production of goods. One the major markets affected was the electronics market (Bloom Williamson 1999). The electronics market has been experiencing sky-scraping rates of growth in the previous decade. According to Gabrielsson (2005), the consumer electronics market has faced growth rates of about 10 per cent in the last few years. Bang Olufsen, among other electronics companies, has also been experiencing success in the recent past and has had its share of growth stemming from the growth of the consumer electronics market. Nevertheless, the effect of financial crisis was substantial for the company. Given that Bang Olufsen is selling what can be categorized as luxury electronic commodities, the impact of financial crisis was very significant because consumers shunned away from luxury products as the crisis aggravated. The figure below shows the trend in growth of the electronics consumer industry. As Kalafaties, Tsogas, and Blankson (2000) pointed out, one outstanding aspect determining the consumer behaviour is an ever-declining trend in prices of electronic products. This has been driven by lower costs of labour, manufacturing efficiency, and automations. This is, perhaps, because manufacturing has shifted to lower-wage countries and there has been an improvement in semiconductor design. Despite consumer electronics market facing upward trends, consumers of electronics continue showing diverse buying decisions. According to Karjalainen (2011), there is a constant need to maintain the product information updated and comparable for electronics consumers to make informed decisions. Price, style, performance, and other specifications seem relevant in the audio/visual industry. Macro Environmental Analysis (PESTEL) When evaluating the external environment, there are various aspects to consider. This makes it problematic to reduce the focus of the analysis to the external environment evaluation that is actually affecting the Bang Olufsen. In order to solve this problem, PESTEL analysis can be deployed, which will help to focus attention on political, economic, socio-cultural, technological, environmental and legal (PESTEL) characteristics of the B Os macro environment (Knight Cavusgil 2004). Nevertheless, PESTEL analysis needs only to be viewed as a checklist; therefore, there might be other factors to consider in the analysis. In addition, some of the aspects of the macro environments might have insignificant effects on the company in question. For Bang Olufsen, this study concentrated on the political, economic, socio-cultural, and technological aspects of the macro environment. Political Environment International and national political decisions frequently influence companies because the results of these decisions control the laws and conditions under which companies must operate. According to VanRiel and Balmer (1997), such effects are evident in the signing of the Rome Treaty and the introduction of Common Market, which led to a decline of Bang Olufsen. Additionally, the works and policies of the World Trade Organization (WTO) focused on reducing trade barriers have created a more laissez-faire trade environment, which has increased competition to Bang Olufsen. According to Tuckwell (2007), the political decisions which will affect Bang Olufsen considerably in the near future would be economic rescue plans, which policy makers worldwide are providing. The rescue plans Bank package 1 and 2, as Simes and Dibb (2001) noted, will influence the ease with which Bang Olufsen can receive funding. It is most likely that Bang Olufsen require funds in the near future, particularly i f the financial crisis proves very difficult to avert. Rescue plans can also affect Bang Olufsen on a general level. This is because the overall reason of devising these plans is to turn around the economy of world. The US policies will significantly affect BO since the US and other key players in the international market are an integral component of the world economy. This implies that the rates of success of these Danish rescue plans will have a direct impact on the BO as the improvement of the world economy will lead to an increase in the sales of the company. Economic Environment As it was mentioned above, the economic crisis affected Bang Olufsen negatively. A significant portion of the effect of economic crisis stems from the decline in consumers purchasing ability because of the economic downturn. Most affected countries are those selling high-end commodities. Due to the fact that about 88 per cent of Bang Olufsens turnover comes from foreign trade, the present economic trends have considerably affected the companys cash flows via fluctuations in the exchange rates. BO deals with the Euro as its foreign currency. Nevertheless, since the Danish Krone is attached to the Euro, fluctuations of the Danish Krone have little effect on the Euro (Porter 2008). Other important currencies include the Swiss Franc and British Pound, which have a net cash inflow, and the US dollar, which has a net cash outflow. The decline in the value of the British Pound affects the Cash inflow of Bang Olufsen. On the contrary, the fall in the value of the US Dollar has assisted BO by increasing the cash outflow. In general, the fluctuations in the currency value have negatively affected the BOs turnover. The British Pound is continuing to fall in its value in relation to the Danish currency and the US dollar is becoming stronger (Porter 2008). Socio-Cultural Environment The boom experienced in the world market prior to the economic crisis increased consumers purchasing ability and increased the focus on the status symbol and luxury design. According to Alessandri and Alessandri (2004), this ensured a favourable environment for the company. Nevertheless, this also compelled many competitors of BO to concentrate on design, as exemplified by Samsungs flat Televisions and Apples iPod. The styles adopted by these competitors are progressively communicating the status symbol of style consumers have been demanding, though at a fraction of the price of Bang Olufsens commodities (Balmer Gray 2003). Increased environmental awareness and green production is another social-cultural factor that affects the company in a positive manner. With regard to this factor, the company has continuously been channelling efforts towards enhancing the performance of the products. It attempts to achieve this by changing the packaging, reducing the stand-by electric consumption, and working on their corporate social responsibility (Knight Cavusgil 2004). The problem is whether the company is conveying this clearly to consumers to make them see that it is an environment friendly company. Technological Environment As it was mentioned, the electronics industry is an extremely volatile industry with fast developments. During the days of radio, Bang Olufsen was among the companies using the most recent technologies in production. Nevertheless, today, Asian electronic companies are way ahead in the development of technologies. For instance, the fact that the company has not developed its Full HD TV shows that it lags behind. Bang Olufsen has never been capable of launching this new technology. On the contrary, the company owns profitable patents and is still one of the frontrunners (Al-Rousan Qawasmeh 2009). Evaluation of Resources, Capabilities Sustainability of Competitive Advantage According to Al-Rousan and Qawasmeh (2009), core competencies have three different characteristics. The first characteristic is that they are a source of competitive advantage, which contributes to perceived consumer benefits. The second characteristic is that they are applicable in various markets. Thirdly, competencies are extremely difficult for competitors to copy. As such, companies need core competencies in order to have a competitive advantage over its competitors. According to Kalafaties, Tsogas, and Blankson (2000), the core competencies of Bang Olufsen are directed towards improving the experience of users of their electronic products. This statement suitably matches with their focus on design and quality that provides the consumers of their products with unique experience when their products are turned off and on. The first core competency of BO is the unmatched quality of their products, which as mentioned above, offer consumers superior experience. According to Gabrielsson (2005), quality has been an important aspect since the establishment of Bang Olufsen. It is a necessity for the company in order to be capable of charging high prices as they do. In addition, quality provides consumers with an extra value by increasing the lifespan of their products. Special design has also been one of the strengths of BO. In fact, the classical aluminium design introduced by Jacob Jensen emerged as a clear differentiator of BOs products. For some time, this simple design distinguished BO from Asian electronic companies. Nevertheless, companies such as Samsung, Sony and Apple are presently challenging this core competency. As Alessandri and Alessandri (2004) noted, the strength lying in their design might to be their market qualifier. Another competency of BO lies in their value of brand. By manufacturing well designed electronic products of high quality and at a high price, the company has established a brand that functions as a status symbol. VanRiel and Balmer (1997) considered this competency as an immaterial asset that might enable the company to charge still considerably higher prices than other key players in the market.

Creative Writing Prompts for High School Students

Creative Writing Prompts for High School Students Whether youre a student or a teacher, these writing prompts for  high school students are going to come in handy if youre looking to inspire better writing. Often, kids get stuck – confused, exasperated, irritated – putting their thoughts on paper, because theyre bored with the same old book reports, essays and summaries. But one of the only ways to become a better writer is to keep at it whether the assignment is motivational or not. Youre never going to become a better 3-point shooter if you dont stand behind the line and make the shots. Writing is the same way. You have to get in there and give it a go. Here are some writing prompts for high school students that may just inspire you or your students to give those ideas rattling around in your brain some room to breathe. 4-Item 1-Paragraph Story Come up with four things: A specific source of light (a flashing neon light reading: 21 and Over, a flickering fluorescent bulb, moonlight filtering through drawn shades)A specific object (a pink hairbrush with blonde hair matted in the bristles, a discarded replica of a Dali painting, a baby robin poking its wobbly head from a rickety nest)A sound using onomatopoeia (the pinging of a glass bottle ricocheting across a cobblestone street, the ching of a handful of coins in a mans pocket, the wet splat of phlegm hitting the sidewalk from the old lady smoking near the laundromat)A specific place (the dingy alley between Brooks St. and 6th Ave., the empty science classroom filled with glass beakers, hot plates and frogs floating in formaldehyde, the darkened, smoky interior of Flannigans Pub) Once you create the list, write a one-paragraph story using each of the four items and a single protagonist of your choosing. The story has to briefly introduce the protagonist, put him or her through a struggle (large or mild) and resolve the struggle in one way or another. Its much more fun to write if you keep the list items as random as possible and to put them all together at the end. Dont plan your story prior to creating the list! Teacher Alternative Students must write one of each list item (light, object, sound and place) on a slip of paper, and then place each in separately marked boxes on your desk. To write the story, students must draw an item from each of the boxes and write their story after, ensuring they cant plan the story prior to selecting the items. Crazy Lyrical Dialogue Go to a lyrics website and select a song randomly, preferably one youve never heard or one to which you dont know the lyrics. For instance, Fergies A Little Party Never Killed Nobody (All We Got).Then, scroll through the song and select the craziest lyric you can find that would be appropriate for school. In Fergies song, it might be What do you think, GoonRock? because its the nuttiest phrase on there.Repeat this process twice more, selecting two more songs and two more crazy lyrics.Then, start a conversation with the first lyric you selected between two people very unlikely to use the phrase. For instance, you might write something like, What do you think, GoonRock? Aunt Ida asked Bernie, sitting two wheelchairs away in Serenity Meadows Assisted Living Center.Once you get the conversation going, insert the other two lyrics elsewhere, shifting the dialogue to make sure the conversation between the two characters makes sense. Continue until you can end the conversation definitively, with a resolution that meets the needs of one of the characters. Teacher Alternative Have the students complete the first part of the assignment themselves, then exchange lyrics with people next to them so they end up with a set of three theyve never seen. Assign a dialogue length or number of exchanges and grade the punctuation. 3 Voices Choose three popular characters. They can be cartoon characters (Ren from Ren and Stimpy, Michelangelo from TMNT), protagonists from plays or novels, (Bella from the Twilight series, Benvolio from Romeo and Juliet) or characters from movies or TV shows (William Wallace from Braveheart, Jess from New Girl). Choose a popular fairy tale. (Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Hansel and Gretel, etc.) Write three, one-paragraph summaries of your selected fairy tale using each of your chosen characters voices. How would William Wallaces version of Tom Thumb differ from Bella Swans? Think about the details each character would notice, the words he or she would use, and the tone in which he or she would relate the story. Bella might wonder about the safety of Tom Thumb, whereas William Wallace might commend him on his bravery, for example. Teacher Alternative After going through a novel or play with your students, assign one character from the unit to each of your students. Then, group your students in threes to write a summary of an act in the play or a chapter in the novel from each of the three  characters  perspectives.

Democracy in Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Democracy in Education - Essay Example This essay stresses that adoption of democratic approach to education provision is the suitable way of correcting the mess created by Ivy League. In a democratic society, students should join any school so long as they have a minimum academic qualification. Considering non-academic and non-financial measures in preventing others from accessing education anywhere is a lack of democracy. Furthermore, the democratization of education would see equality in the strength of degrees irrespective of learning institution, which give everybody a chance to succeed in life. This paper makes a conclusion that democracy promotes equality and fair distribution of resources by those in power. Fundamentally, democratic education systems support four aspects, that is, autonomy, diversity, openness, and interactivity. Broadly, learning is a product of societal interaction through the exchange of experiences and abilities. Currently, American society encourages education consumerism, a factor that facilitate inequitable distribution of resources. The emergence of Ivy League institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and Brown amongst the rest is disadvantaging some sections of society members. In other words, unfair admission in these schools locks out more disserving students just because they do not meet certain criteria, which is non-academic or financial. Overall, stakeholders should redesign education systems and structures to portray democratic orientation. Otherwise, quality of teaching will deteriorate significantly as institutions give soft sport to undeservi ng people due to favors.