Acct 504 Case Study 2

ACCT504 – Accounting and Finance: Managerial Use and Analysis| Case Study 2| Evaluation of LJB Company’s Internal Controls| | [Type the author name]| Due: Feburary 10, 2013| Table of Contents Paragraph Introduction1 Accounting regulations2 Establishing a Control Environment3 Segregation of duties4 Segregation of record keeping form physical custody 5 Policies for petty cash6 Pre-numbered invoices 7 Distribution of paychecks8 Hiring policies9 Independent internal verification 10 Conclusion 11The following is an evaluation of LJB Company’s internal controls, based on the information provided by the President of the company in an effort to prepare his company for the requirements needed to be a publically run company. First, I will establish the legal requirement needed and the importance of internal controls for an organization. Then I will review the current policies and establish better internal controls for each area of concern. Once these policies have been ins tituted by the LJB Company, they should be ready to proceed with their plan to go public.There are many accounting regulations required by a public company. All accounting reports must follow the FASB and SEC guidelines. However, the newest accounting guidelines fall under the Saranes-Oxley act of 2002. The Act mandates reform to improve financial disclosure from companies and to reduce fraud. It requires that senior management must verify the accuracy of the reported financial statement. Plus it requires that management and auditors maintain a system of internal controls and report the methods of these controls.If the company doesn’t comply with the requirements, they could be subject to hefty fines. Before establishing internal controls, it is essential that the company establishes their control environment. The company’s management must clearly outline its goals, standards and ethics since they â€Å"set the stage† for the atmosphere and integrity for the ent ire organization. With the control environment in place, management can then implement its internal controls. I will review what control activities the company is doing right and what the company will need to change.The following control activities will be reviewed; segregation of duties, establishment of responsibility, adequate documents and records, physical control over assets and records and independent checks on performance. Currently, the LJB Company has one person who serves as the Treasurer and Controller. His responsibility includes purchases and paying for all of the supplies. This policy leaves the company venerable to fraud and increases the chances of errors. The company must establish a segregation of duties.Responsibilities should be separate, so no employee should be in the position to both make and conceal errors or fraud in the normal course of their duties. Therefore, I would recommend one person should be in charge of purchasing the supplies and that all purchas es should be approved by a supervisor. Another person should be in charge of paying for the supplies and verifying that the purchase is accurate and approved. This should reduce the risk of undetected errors and limit the opportunity for fraudulent behavior.In addition to the purchasing/paying duties, the accounting person also receives the checks and completes the monthly bank reconciliation. When one individual is responsible for both activities, the potential for errors and irregularities is increased. There should be a segregation of record keeping form and physical custody. The accountant should not have custody of the checks and be responsible for the monthly band reconciliation. There should be a policy in which the work is either separated or reviewed by a supervisor. Next, I will review the company’s policy for petty cash.The current system allows every employee access to the cash and they are only required to leave a note if they remove any funds. This policy violat es many proper internal control activities. The company needs to establish who is ultimately responsible for handling the petty cash. Only authorized personnel should have access to the funds. Expenses paid from the petty cash fund can only be made for the purpose the fund was authorized and must be supported by a receipt. When it is not in use, the petty cash box must be placed in a locked safe or cabinet.An independent count of the receipts and cash on hand must be performed regularly by an accounting officer or supervisor. The new policy of using pre-numbered invoices is an excellent way to insure that all documents are accounted for. It will also help errors such as, entering the record in more than once or missing entries entirely. Any gap in the numerical sequence may indicate a problem and possibly catch errors. I would also recommend the purchase of indelible ink machine to print checks. This will insure that the ink cannot be erased or washed away for fraudulent use.Next we will review the controls set up regarding issuing paychecks. The current procedure has the accountant picking up the paychecks and leaving them in his office for pick up. The checks are locked into a safe if he leaves for the weekend. When you pay employees, certain controls are needed to reduce the risk of fraud or errors. Whenever possible, the accountant should hand the checks directly to the employee, and always lock up undistributed paychecks. Another solution would be to have your employees set their paychecks to be automatically deposited directly into their personal bank account.The next step is to review your hiring policies. I would recommend counting the policy of having both the President and the accountant interview and make decisions on hiring an individual. However, I would also recommend implementing the following policies. If an employee handles cash, the company should have that employee bonded to protect the company from theft. A thorough background check should be run on each employee. All credentials should be verified by phone or by receiving a copy if applicable. After the employee has been vetted, be sure to cross train employees.This will be useful when you require employees to take vacations and rotate employee’s duties. All of these practices should lower the risk of employee theft. To ensure the reliability of the accounting information, an employee’s duties should be verified by others who do did not do the work themselves. I would also recommend that the company sets up a system for an independent internal verification. The company should audit data prepared by an employee periodically. This person should be independent of the activities or department of the person being audited.All discrepancies will need to be reported to management, so corrective action should be taken. In conclusion, establishing a system of internal controls will create a system of checks and balances that will reduce fraud, errors, increase ef fectiveness and insure they are fully compliant will all laws and regulation. Each internal control is the means by which an organization’s resources are directed, monitored and measured. These recommendations will help the company establish specific policies and procedures they will need to reach their goals of becoming a publically traded company. Resources

Principle of Tourism 2

. Transportation Tourism Attractions TOUR OPERATORGOVERNMENT Accommodation and Food and Beverage Transportation Travel Agency 2. ? 1950, there are 25 million tourist arrivals around the world? 2007 to 903 million in? Forecasted by 2010 1 billion? Forecasted by 2020 1. 6 billion by 2020. 3. ? The World Bank 2005 estimates, 1. 4 billion people are living in the poverty line.? New threshold for extreme poverty using the 2005 prices is now pegged at $1. 25.? The multiplier effect is experienced on other industries like handicrafts, agriculture, fisheries and transport. 4. Acts as intermediaries for the customers. They broker on behalf of the tourist from accommodation to tour operators. They receive commissions from their suppliers such as hotels, food and beverage establishments and tour operators as well as earn their revenues from their principal (customers). 5. ? Business travelers? Leisure travelers? International travelers. 6. ? The concept of travel agency started in 1841, when Th omas Cook (father of travel agencies) signed up 570 people to accompany him to a packaged travel from Leicester to Loughborough that included board and lodging arrangements. . ? Miniples ? Similar businesses to independents but they have more branches and usually a head office in a local area ? The different branches may trade under different names ? Other small independents may be bought up and added to the miniple 8. ? Multiples ? Private companies usually with a high street presence in most UK towns and cities ? Part of large organisations which trade in other areas of travel and tourism ? Many customers attracted by large discounts 9. Independent ? These are private companies that have one or a few branches, often close to each other. ? Cater to a niche market. ? Rely on repeat business from satisfied customers 10. ? Mega travel agencies, as the name denotes is based on their size and scope. These are large travel agencies that own and control all aspects of their operations. Th ey provide complete travel services that include transportation, accommodation and others related to the needs of their clients. 11. Consortiums are group of travel agents who formed an association to maximize buying power and sharing of technology.? Independent travel agencies are small-scale businesses that cater to a specific niche like corporate travel services or specialized travel needs 12. ? The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) was founded through the union of the national associations of the outbound travel agencies and inbound tour operators in 1979.? Founded to foster unity in the travel industry and to promote the welfare of its members and the travelling public as well. 3. ? Typically creates and combines products from the value chain of travel and tour. For example, the package created may include airline (transportation), Hotel (accommodation) and a tourism attraction all in one price.? Tour operators may sell these products to travel agencies who act as r epresentatives of the principal (customer). 14. ? The training program is designed to produce individuals who will guide DOT visitors by presenting the country in the best possible light in an interesting, intelligent & engaging manner.

The relationship researches establish with those they study Essay

The relationship researches establish with those they study. (Questioning the Us vs. Them divide) - Essay Example For a time, an intellectual compromise seemed an unreachable destination. Until the World Health Organization offered an operational elucidation, which for decades now, holds the title for acceptability and universality. WHO states that gender pertains to the socially created roles, behaviors, activities and characteristics that a particular group of people deems appropriate for the male and the female (WHO). Gender systems, on the other hand, are binary and hierarchic classifications and distinctions based on empiric (biological) or social considerations: male or female; man or woman. This set of categorization, which determines how society looks at and deals with a person, is a matter of great importance. But â€Å"even though there are actual differences between the two human beings, these do not signify that one sex is better than the other† (Lippa 2). From Mars, from Venus The school of Gender Fundamentalism posits that men and women are absolutely and intrinsically diffe rent in so many ways more than the physical. That an attempt to ask which genitalia is better than the other is way too nonsensical. ... According to him, both sexes have communication patterns that are situated in opposite poles. In times of stress, women cope by narrating their stories with others, while men just shy away and retreat before any resolution is achieved. In terms of intimate relationships, men desire to be trusted, appreciated and needed; while women long to be cherished, cared for and affirmed (Gray 15-16). But a close examination of Dr. Gray’s bestselling book tells readers that aside from the unmistakable differences in behavior, outlook and character, men and women still have fundamental similarities with each other. This point-of-view is supported by a book written by communication connoisseur Deborah Cameron in 2007, as a seeming rejoinder to Gray’s nonfiction masterpiece. She points out that the theories of Darwin hold water in the case of social roles and relationships between the sexes. In her dissertation, she also cites that the linguistic variations between the male and the fe male ‘discourse patterns’ are rooted from childhood when the socialization process begins. â€Å"The need to create and to express personal meaning and identity are significant players in the characterizations of men and women. Both desire to be understood. Both need to be accepted. The difference only lies in how society views their actuation† (Cameron 55). Another insightful discussion on this matter shall be undertaken in the succeeding portion of this paper. History versus Herstory Since the dawn of civilization, societies are governed by leaders who are identified with the ‘male’. Anthropologists and even the members of the laity know that societies are inclined to be patriarchal, if not chauvinistic in favor

Consumer behaviour Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Consumer behaviour - Case Study Example A number of factories have been closed and retail network for distribution of its products reduced. The company just hired a highly competent CEO1 who has experience in business make ups and creating and sustaining brands, image and customer loyalty. A SWOT2 analysis of the company indicates that it stands to enjoy a number of business opportunities if certain things are achieved. The firm has several strengths that would increase its competitive advantage. The company, however, faces challenges in terms of potential threats from the market as well as internal weaknesses, which may be minimized. Several strategies and action points are suggested as measures to restore the company’s glory and regain its market share to improve business performance. Among them is the implementation of an elaborate marketing and promotion campaign, putting in place a comprehensive customer relations program, re-establishment of retail distribution networks, expansion to new markets and diversific ation of existing product range. Introduction Levi Strauss & Co is an all-time American brand clothing store that has been in the San Francisco apparel market for many decades. It faces a number of hurdles in sustaining business growth momentum. ... The company has for the last three years faced a rough business terrain with plummeting sales, layoffs, occasional plant closings, and a failure to woo certain market segments to take up its products. The company just appointed Mr. Philip Marineau, a vigilant and veteran marketing executive from PepsiCo Inc., as CEO to turnaround its fortunes and rejuvenate its presence in the market for growth. Philip’s mission is to bring back the company to its earlier business glory and more by re-establishing effective customer relations, launch more relevant products and improve existing ones guided by the needs of customers and undertake effective promotions, advertising and marketing for the products. This paper will provide an analysis of Levi Strauss by addressing the problem, conducting a situation analysis, assessing alternative options and making firm and implementable decisions to help the chief executive achieve his desired objectives (Case Study notes). Problem Statement The ma in problem of Levi Strauss as explained in the foregoing background is the failure to respond to different needs of different customer classes in its market. Specifically, the company has failed to quickly respond to fashion trends for its youthful market in the textile industry thus losing a significant market share to competitors such as JNCO and Kikwear among others. The fall of a majority of the company’s retail distribution networks has also been a big problem in terms of maintaining sustained or even stronger presence in the market. The company has continuously failed to embrace dynamic market needs and is stuck on traditional styles that currently

A comparison & contrast of two comparable company leaders Essay

A comparison & contrast of two comparable company leaders - Essay Example Businesses have increasingly discovered that their successful survival depends largely on their capacity to leverage collective knowledge which consequently depends on the cadre of supervisors and leaders that they possess in order to meet the growing demands of speed and innovation in the fast moving business world. Leadership has attained importance in its ability to influence individuals and groups in directing and supporting their efforts towards accomplishments of organization goals and objectives. Leaders have been recognized as heroic figures that have the capabilities to determining the future and fate of the organization. The search for the leadership traits and characteristics has been continuing for centuries and extensive research has been conducted to find the qualities distinguishing an individual as a leader. History suggests that different leaders have followed different leadership styles over the years; while some have been participative others have been autocratic. However, this largely depends on the personal characteristics of the individuals standing out as leaders. This project seeks to bring forth the differences and similarities of leadership styles pursued by Bill Gates and Steve Jobs who are owners of Microsoft and Apple respectively. This is done with particular reference to the theories of leadership and real life examples from organizations. Steve Jobs has been an unconventional leader and is known as for ability of building consensus and consultative approach. His leadership style demanded high degree of excellence and accuracy from his co-workers and he was known for his blunt release of criticisms. On the other hand, Bill Gates is known for his technical bent of mind and demonstrates task oriented leadership style where he is found to be mostly concerned with the accomplishment of tasks and organizational objectives. Leadership style of Steve Jobs In order to understand the core steps and ideas which led to the growth of Apple an d accounted for its success, it is crucial to make a thorough understanding of the leadership style followed by Steve Jobs who had been the CEO of the company during the same period. One of the statements made by Steve Jobs throws light on the style of leadership that Steve Jobs he considered adopting. He had said that innovation is the main distinguishing factor between a leader and a follower. Innovation has been the key to the style of leadership that Steve Jobs has followed in his organization. Also his leadership style has made innovation easily accessible to all his customers such that they remain open to acquiring his products frequently (Hitt, Ireland & Hoskisson, 2010, p.352). In this context it is surprising to note that Steve Jobs did not successfully graduate from any college. He rather devoted all his time to technologies and innovations in his domain. Thus it can be inferred that leadership is a feature which cannot be acquired, rather individuals are born with the cha racteristics. Steve Jobs is considered to be the central personality in his organization. He has become the icon in the organization and seems to have developed a cult-like personality. This is the reason why Apple is considered to be personality driven (Dailey, 2011). Charismatic Leadership Style followed by Steve Jobs Charismatic leadership typically instils submission and awe in the minds of the followers

Economic Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Economic Development - Essay Example It is only by setting up and effectively executing proper economic development plans that these are achieved. New Jersey State employs a complex economic development plan. This encompasses both government initiatives and private sector initiatives. They all work in tandem towards the realization of a common goal which is uplifting the economy of the state. It is an intricate development plan that has so far worked out perfectly well. One of the arms of the intricate development plan of New Jersey State is the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This is machinery for protecting and enhancing the environment of the state. The environment is a very key aspect of the economy. Economic development would come to a halt if the environment is not protected. Industries would pollute the air with toxic gases; the water bodies with lethal effluents; there would be unbearable noise; there would be uncontrolled deforestation among others. All these have dire consequences for the develop ment of the state. The state would lose its work force due to the death or ailment of its citizens. All sectors of the economy would thus be poorly managed. There would be poor schools, poor hospitals, and poor transport systems just among others. In short, there would be no development. In order to guard against this the state employs the use of a principal development plan, the Department of Environmental Protection. The BEDI program is seen as possible way to spur the return of brownfields to productive economic use through financial assistance to public entities in the redevelopment of brownfields. It as well enhances the security and improvement of the viability of a project which has the financing of section 108 guaranteed loan authorities. Hence, due to this, the BEDI grants must be used in conjunction with a new section 108 guaranteed loan commitment. Section 108 is the loan guarantee provision of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Another key economic dev elopment plan that the state of New Jersey uses is the Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP). The private sector contributes to the environmental development of the state through this program. It is an initiative that allows any interested parties to take part in a cleanup program of the state. This helps to alleviate filthy spots in the state. Any interested party that feels they are in a position to foot the challenges that come with cleaning up an identified site are welcome. They should have the will and the ability to conduct the exercise. There is a cleanup Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the state. The interested party enters into a cleanup Memorandum of Agreement with the state. This works out the modalities of the exercise. Through these cleanup programs, the state is capable of enhancing the hygiene of its ambience. By so doing, a stimulus to economic development is inevitable. It is a proper economic development plan. The Brownfields Economic Development Initiative is another major economic development plan from which the state of New Jersey benefits. This could very well be the most outstanding of them all. It is used for the sake of promoting and stimulating economic developm

Natural Rights and John Locke Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Natural Rights and John Locke - Essay Example According to the research findings rights are normative fundamental rules that delineate what people are allowed to do and what is owed to the people. These demarcations are carried out on the basis of some ethical theory, legal system or some kind of social convention. The domain of rights spans legal, social and ethical principles of entitlement and freedom. Rights in themselves are considered fundamental to civilisation and are taken as pillars of culture and social living. There are a number of different perspectives on rights that have evolved over time and are now used to deal with this issue. One of these perspectives on rights is that of natural rights that has gained currency over centuries. Any rights that are not dependent on laws, beliefs, culture, customs, government or other such features and are thus universal and inalienable in nature are better known as natural rights. These rights stand in contrast to legal rights that are bestowed on an individual through the autho rity of the law or through a political or legal framework. In this sense, these legal rights are relative and specific within the context of the culture and government implementing them. Natural rights on the other hand are universal and inalienable and do not require any frameworks to support themselves. The domain of natural law is closely associated and is considered an extension to natural rights. The theory of natural law was used to challenge the divine rights of kings during the Age of Enlightenment. The domain of natural rights was used to provide justification for and to establish government, social contract as well as positive law that in turn provided for legal rights through classical republicanism. Anarchists have used the idea of natural rights to confront the legitimacy of establishments of all kinds (Rothbard, 2003) (Rothbard, 2006). Some schools of thought have related human rights closely to natural rights while other schools of thought tend to recognise no differe nce between human rights and natural rights. Although there are common features between both domains but some thinkers have kept both domains separated in order to eliminate association between both (Jones, 1994). In particular the domain of natural rights are considered to be beyond the authority of any establishment such as governments or international bodies such that these establishments cannot dismiss these rights. Natural rights have been enshrined into international soft law through the use of instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In the twentieth century, the domain of natural rights has attracted the interests of philosophers and legal scholars alike. There has been added interest in the natural rights of animals especially in recent decades. It must be kept in mind that the natural rights of human beings are distinct from the natural rights of animals (Dershowitz, 2004). This text will attempt to track the evolution of natural rights from antiquity to the political thought of John Locke who can be seen as a prominent proponent of natural rights. The perspectives on natural rights will be elaborated and then compared to the political philosophy of John Locke in order to gauge a fair comparison. 2. Evolution of Natural Rights Throughout history legal rights have had an undeniable existence as all societies possessed some form of legal frameworks to keep social order in check. In a similar manner the idea that certain rights are bestowed by nature and are inalienable date back to antiquity to at least the age of the Stoics from late Antiquity. The domain of natural rights figured prominently in Catholic law during the early part of the Middle Ages and can be seen as evolving through the Protestant Reformation as well. This evolution continued through the Age of Enlightenment and into the modern day (Zuckert, 1994). 2.1. Antiquity The concept of natural rights

Electromagnetism and Mind Control Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Electromagnetism and Mind Control - Essay Example A changing magnetic field will induce a varying electric field and vice-versa—the two are linked both influence and control of the mind. These varying fields form electromagnetic waves (Beckley 18). Electromagnetic waves differ from mechanical waves in that they do not oblige a medium to propagate. This means that electromagnetic bearing can pass in the course of not only through air and solid materials, but as well through the vacuum of space. Electromagnetic waves has characteristics and this characteristics resolve the extent of ‘‘dangers’’ or effect of the waves and they include; wavelengths, velocity, amplitude, and Frequency. Frequency: The frequency of any waveform equals the velocity divided by the wavelength. The units of measurement are in cycles per second or Hertz. The wavelengths of electromagnetic waves go from extremely long to extremely short and everything in between. The wavelengths determine how matter responds to the electromagneti c wave, and those characteristics determine the name we give that particular group of wavelengths. The amplitude of electromagnetic waves relates to its intensity or brightness (as in the case of visible light).With visible light, the brightness is usually measured in lumens. With other wavelengths the intensity of the radiation, which is power per unit area or watts per square meter is used. The square of the amplitude of a wave is the intensity The velocity is a measure of the displacement per unit time. The standard value of velocity of an electromagnetic wave in a vacuum is approximately 300,000 kilometers per second, the same as the speed of light. When these waves pass through matter, they slow down slightly, depending on the size of their wavelength. Electromagnetic waveform All human thoughts, sensations and actions arise from bioelectricity generated by neurons and transmitted through complex neural circuits inside our skull. Electrical signals between neurons generate elec tric fields that radiate out of brain tissue as electrical waves that can be picked up by electrodes touching a person's scalp (Beckley 32). Measurements of such brainwaves present strong insight into brain principle and an important analytical tool for health center. In reality, so elementary are brainwaves to the internal mechanism of the mind, they have turn out to be the decisive, legal definition illustrating the thin line between life and death. Brainwaves modify with a healthy person's awareness and unconscious mental action and state of stimulation. It is probable to selectively control brain function by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) (Evans 39). This method uses strong pulses of electromagnetic radiation grinned into a person's brain to jam or excite particular brain circuits. Possibility of Electromagnetic wave mind control: Although a cell phone is much less powerful than transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), the question still remains: Could the electrical si gnals coming from a phone affect certain brainwaves operating in resonance with cell phone transmission frequencies? After all, the caller's cerebral cortex is just centimeters away from radiation broadcast from the phone's antenna. A study by Rodney Croft, of the Brain Science Institute, Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia gives a degree of justification (Ceres 78) Rodney Croft tested whether cell phone transm

ComLab Inventory Essay Example for Free

ComLab Inventory Essay 2. 1 Introduction This chapter will review all related work and technology used in developing the â€Å"Computer Laboratory Inventory System† This chapter will review on the technologies that relate to the needed research and the current or related projects that have been studied. 2. 2 Definition of Terms/Concepts 2. 2. 1 Barcode Inventory System The term â€Å"barcode inventory system† is generic and encompasses avariety of different applications and industries. The term is commonly used in warehousing, logistics, and distribution; it can also be used in retail point-of-sale, manufacturing, and various service sector implementations. In each case, at its core, a â€Å"barcode inventory system† includes ameasurable list of items or quantities and utilizes barcode technology in some fashion. Barcode technology is a means of interfacing humans to data processing equipment; therefore, barcode technology cannot be utilized independent of data processing equipment. Commonly, the data processing equipmentstores the results of a â€Å"barcode inventory system† in electronic form. 2. 2. 2 Automatic Data Gathering This term refer to the concept of data collection that run on script that will be developed. It is important that the system will automatic, by detection of the computer hardware and software component and then store the data into the database at the same time. The script will be based on JavaScript because it supports the Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) and Windows Script Host (WSH). Both two components are required to enable the detection of the computer hardware and software function in this system. 2. 2. 3 Windows Script Host (WSH) The Microsoft Windows Script Host (originally called Windows ScriptingHost) is distributed and installed by default on Windows 98 and laterversions of Microsoft Windows. It is also installed if Internet Explorer 5 (ora later version) is installed. It provides scripting capabilities comparable to batch files, but with a greater range of supported features. Beginning with Windows 2000, the Windows Script Host became available for use with user login scripts. It is language-independent in the sense that it can make use of different Active Scripting language engines. By default it interprets and runs plaintext JScript (. JS and . JSE files) and VBScript (. VBS and . VBE files). Users can install different scripting engines to enable them to script in other languages, for instance Perl. The language independent filename extension WSF can also be used. The advantage of the Windows Script File (. WSF) is that it allows the user to use a combination of scripting languages within a single file. The researcher has taken the advantage of the scripting ability by developing a JavaScript file to be used as Automatic Data Gathering engine for Computer Inventory System. 2. 3 Different Types of Inventory System There are a number of different inventory systems starting with the most ancient system to the most advanced system. 2. 3. 1 Physical Counts (Periodic System) The most basic method of inventory tracking is physical counts. A lot of firms relied on physical count to try and figure approximately where they were at. 2. 3. 2 Two-Bin System The two-bin system is only slightly more sophisticated than the physical count system. Using the marvels of modern technology, this system uses two bins of materials. When one bin is empty, its time to re-order. 2. 3. 3 Perpetual Tracking This method of counting is demand driven. Instead of counting how many items are in inventory, we count how many leave inventory. The demand can be tracked by batches of inventory usage, such as demand that is entered once a week or they can enter in real time which provides the ability to continuously monitor inventory levels. If we are already in the practice of counting demand, this is a great way to track inventory because it involves little additional effort. It was ideal because there is little variability in the products that are demanded. For a supermarket, this can be more difficult because of the variety of products sold. Chapter III System Analysis and Design System analysis is the process of understanding and specifying in detail what the information system should do. This involves all the data gathered during the previous interviews with the subject personnel as needed by the researcher. This chapter covers on the presentation, requirements and specification of the proposed system. This also shows if the proposed system is feasible. System Feasibility Feasibility study is a systematic analysis and performed in advance to the project in order to provide some information about the project whether it should be undertaken or not. It involves the analysis of the system to determine whether it is feasible to develop the particular system. The feasibility on this proposed system was foreseen to be feasible to the Institution through the following factors: Operational This system will be operational feasible considering the fact that it will fasten the processing of the computer laboratory inventory system of Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges. The proposed system will have a user friendly environment and the flow of the system can be easily comprehended by the user. Technical The technicality of the proposed computer laboratory inventory system is considered feasible because it was developed to help the staff in managing computer assets,especially when they are going to trace the computers and peripheral and domass upgrade. The purpose of the system is to help the staffs manage the computers inventory more effective and easy way. Using this Computer Laboratory Inventory System, staffs can get information about all computers, monitors and other peripherals that currently exist in the faculty. They also can trace where all the computers are located in the faculty whether in the computer labs, classes, offices, in the lecturer’s room or anywhere in the faculty. In order for the system to perform better, Computers should be placed in a well-ventilated area and should be well protected to avoid electrical problems. Schedule The Researchers was given an enough time frame to comply the proposed system for the Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges – Computer Laboratory Inventory System. They were given one whole semester to finish the entire system and the study. This was very sufficient in conducting his study, performing interviews, designing and creating the proposed system. In designing and creating the system, the researchers was also allowed to use the unit in the computer laboratory of the school even extends his working hours during free time only. Economic Feasibility The proposed system is economically feasible to the Institution for the reason that the school will benefit and save money in purchasing the system. System Requirement Specification The system requirement of the proposed system is needed to run efficiently. If the hardware and the software do not meet the required specification, our system will probably encounter problems. The process of the computer may run slow which may cause delay. Hardware Specification Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system which is required in the study. Below are the lists of the minimum requirements of hardware components of the computer for the proposed system. Colored monitor Mouse Standard Keyboard System Unit (at least Pentium 3) AVR (Auto-Voltage Regulator) Hard Disk (at least 80 gigabytes) Software Specification Software refers to the needed and required software applications in order for the proposed study to run and be used. Operating System-Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 or Higher Microsoft Office 2003 Microsoft Visual Basic 6. 0 People The people involved in the proposed system are the direct users. They are categorized as primary users and secondary users. To manage the system the user should be computer literate and able to use and operate a computer so that they will have no difficulties of absorbing the instructions the researcher will have to give during the training period. This is essential so that they will not encounter problems while using the system. These users will also undergo several seminars or training to familiarize the system. This is highly recommended so that they could easily handle the system to avoid delay and errors. System Requirement Checklist During the requirements modeling, the researcher must have to identify and describe all system requirements. The System Requirements Checklist presents the inputs, process, outputs, performance and controls. Input – the data’s that are inputted and stored in the database considered as raw material that are being processed to create the necessary information. Process – are the transactions of an establishment being done on the data in thesystem. Output – the report and visual outcome of the processed data. Performance – trapping of errors and outcome of the processing. Controls – the shortcut keys that are used to manipulate the screen. Future Growth, Cost and Benefits This will discuss the benefits of the proposed system. The implementation of the new system is firmly believed and assured to produce tangible benefits though it has also intangible benefits to the company. Tangible Benefits The proposed system provides assurance to the company that Proposed System will lessen works loads and will provide a better service to the respondents. Aside from that, it can easily generate reports and it will improve the performance of the firm in terms of service. Intangible Benefits Immediate maintenance if there are some necessary technical problems occurs in the System. Scalability This is to test if the new systems will be capable of storing a large capacity of data that can hold information based on the specified needed requirements specifically on the hard disk. In the future growth, the system will reach its discarded period and will not be capable of storing information so the system is recommended to upgrade its program to sustain its operation. The researcher assures that the given hardware and software requirements are reliable and can sustain a large number of information. Enterprise Modeling This presentation contains the sequence in the Computer Laboratory Inventory System of Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges. For the system to be efficient, the researcher develops graphical presentations about the proposed system. The system flowchart indicates the Proposed Computer Laboratory Inventory system that it could minimize errors on the whole operation compared to the existing system. The enterprise model shows how the entities are related to each other and it also widens our understanding on how the researcher designed the program to perform certain transactions. System Flow Chart, or data flow, is used to describe the flow of data through a complete data-processing system. Different graphic symbols represent the clerical operations involved and the different input, storage, and output information required. Although the flow chart may indicate the specific program used, no details are given of how the programs process the data. Context Diagram The above diagram shows the whole process done in the proposed Computer Laboratory Inventory system. This is to identify all the major input and output of the system. Data Flow Diagram of the Proposed Computer Laboratory Inventory System A Data Flow Diagram is a graphical representation of the â€Å"flow† of data through an information system. User User Account 1. 0 Category Info Item Info. Transaction details Category 3. 0 Reports Transaction Summary Report Inventory Report Table 1 File Maintenance Table 1. 1 User Information Input Add new user , Add new password, Process Add, Update, Save, Delete, Close, Refresh Output Display User Account Performance No Errors, user friendly Control Table 1. 2 Unit Information Input Unit Process Add, Edit, Save, Delete, Close, Refresh Output Display Unit Record Performance No Errors, user friendly Control Table 1. 3 Supplier’s Information Input Company name, Company Address, Contact Person, Contact No. Process Add, Update, Save, Delete, Close, Refresh Output Display Supplier Account Performance No Errors, user friendly Control Table 1. 4 Office Information Input Office Name, Office Address, Bldg. No. Process Add, Update, Save, Delete, Close, Refresh Output Display Office Account Performance No Errors, user friendly Control Table 1. 5 Officer Information Input Officer Name, Officer ID No. , Officer Department Process Add, Update, Save, Delete, Close, Refresh Output Display Officer Account Performance No Errors, user- friendly Control Table 1. 6 Category Information Input Category Name Process Add, Update, Save, Delete, Close, Refresh Output Display Category Record Performance No Errors, user- friendly Control Table 1. 7 Brand Information Input Brand Name Process Add, Update, Save, Delete, Close, Refresh Output Display Brand Record Performance No Errors, user- friendly Control Table 2 Transaction Table 2. 1 New Items Input Category, Unit, Brand, Description, Price, Date of Purchase, Supplier, Office, Officer, Process Add, Update, Save, Delete, Close, Refresh Output Display New Item Information Performance No Errors, user friendly Control Table 2. 2 Dispose Items Input Unit to Be Dispose, Reason of Disposal Process Search, Dispose, Refresh Output Display Dispose Item Performance No Errors, user friendly Control Table 2. 3 Repose Items Input Dispose ID, Reason of Repose Process Search, Repose, Refresh Output Display Repose Item Performance No Errors, user friendly Control Table 2. 4 Transfer Items Input Category, Brand, Transfer Office, Transfer Address, Process Search, Transfer, Refresh Output Display Transfer Item Information Performance No Errors, user friendly Control Table 3 Data Report Input None Process Print and Review Output List of All Information for One New Item and All Transaction

Role of current liabilities and liquidity in accounting Essay Example for Free

Role of current liabilities and liquidity in accounting Essay A liability refers to the present obligation to an organisation following a past transaction and which is expected to be paid from cash or other near cash forms. It is simply put as that which the company owes others. Current liabilities are one of the types of liabilities in an organisation the other being longterm liabilities. Current liabilities refers to those liabilities that are payable within a duration of one year or less. Longterm liabilities can be paid in more than one year. Current liabilities include payables such as salaries, creditors arising from short-term obligations for example purchases of supplies,taxes payable, overdrafts and short-term loans. Liquidity on the other hand refers to the ability of an asset to be converted to cash quickly. The easier the ability, the more liquid the asset is. Cash is considered to be the most liquid asset since it is already in cash form. Liquidity is also used to refer to the ability of debtors to pay their debts when they fall due. Liquidity management therefore means that an organisation should be able to maintain sufficient cash and liquid asstes to pay their expenses. The ability to pay is measured using liquidity ratio. Analysts and creditors use the current ratio which divides current by liabilities or quick ratio which divides current assets minus inventions by current liabilities. The higher the ratio the higher the liquidity and hence the ability to pay obligations when they arise. Liquidity of liabilities is measured according to their due dates. Longterm liabilities are payable in more than one year and therefore do not require fast cash. However, short-term liabilities(current liabilities) require that the organisation maintains ready cash to pay for them when they arise. Role of current liabilities and liquidity Current liabilities and liquidity show the financial position of the business. When a company has many debts, it is not viewed as being in a good financial position. This is because it is expected to draw alot of cash from its account to pay expenses. The lesser the debts that a company has the better its financial position. A slightly high liquidity ratio shows that the organisation is doing well financially. This is according to Diamond,Slice, E. K Slice,J. D. (2000). Similarly, when liquidity is low to a certain extent the business is seen as not being in a position to repay its debts or in financial crisis. In obtaining financing from banks and obtaining goods from creditors, current assets and liquidity play a significant role. Liquidity measures help in ascertaining ability of a firm to repay its loans and debts. Low liquidity measure would indicate poor management or financial problems. Liquidity measure is one of the factors that creditors and bankers consider before lending to a company. A company with a high liquidity ratio is likely to obtain a loan easily because it shows its ability to repay. Attracting potential investors and business partners will require an impressive balance sheet (William et al, 2008). No investor will want to cash in his money in a business with poor financial position. Investors and business partners want to identify the best business with the best return for their money. Liquidity and current liability of the business will give them the details that they need. References Diamond, M. A. ,Slice, E. K. , and Slice,J. D. (2000). Financial Accounting: Reporting and Analysis harriman: House limited. Williams, J. R. , Susan F. H. , Bettner, M. S. , Carcello, J. V (2008). Financial Managerial Accounting. Irwin: McGraw-Hill . es. oxfordjournals. org/cgi/content/full/khn009v1 Similar pages by J Fingard (2008) www. journals. cambridge. org/abstract_S000711450809466X , (2008).

Political and Social Development in Pakistan

Political and Social Development in Pakistan Table of Contents Research Report Introduction Objective Research questions Research Methodology 1.Primary data 2.Secondary data Literature review Variables Independent variable Dependant variable NGOs Definition of Variables NGOs Social development Political development Hypothesis Time frame Data Analysis Validity and Reliability Limitations Conclusions and Recommendations  ·Conclusion  ·Recommendations Introduction The utility of development is to achieve both economic and social structure for the transformation of society. Phenomenon of development is about effectively integrating the various elements that are required for state to develop; these elements are mainly economic, social, political and administrative. Pakistan is facing the problems in the context of both political and social development. People of the rural areas and the tribal areas such as Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) are still participating in electoral process that is the part of political development. Pakistan is on the extremely low rank on Human Development Index (HDI) that is the sub component of Social development. Presently Pakistan is standing on the rank 147th and is having the HDI value just 0.515 in the year 2013. Pakistan stands among the worst performers in child and infant mortality. Another area that needs to be socially developed is health and mortality. Under 1 year of age, the total number of deaths are 69 per 1000, and it needs to be brought down to at least 40, according to the goals that need to be achieved by 2015. The reasons behind child mortality in Pakistan are found to be, not only the medical/healthcare facilities available for the infant and mother, but also the poor sanitation in mostly rural and remote parts of the country. In accordance with the estimation made by World Bank in 2010, around 80% of the world’s most poor people live in just 10 countries, amongst which Pakistan has the 7th rank. The UNDP 2013 report states that 21% of the total population of Pakistan are earning less than $ 1.25/day and are living below the poverty line. Eradicating poverty is one of the Millennium Development Goals as well NGOs may prove to be effective to achieve the goals. These NGOs are having interventions on national level in the countries where they are operating. The NGOs can be involved at planning and implementation levels. NGOs’ impact on the grass-roots can be described as empowerment of the underprivileged people of society. There is a substantial amount of literature present on the activities carried out by NGOs that plays any role in relevance to social growth of Pakistan, but no study has been undertaken regarding the political development in relevance to NGOs. This study is an attempt to fulfill the gap in literature, and would prove to be the first brick towards the development of literature in this area. Objective: The main objective of this study is to examine the impact of various activities being carried out by NGOs on contribution towards political and social development of the state. Hypothesis: Limited role of NGOs in Pakistan’s politics has led to lack of accountability and transparency in various political processes and social development of the state. Research Questions: What role does NGOs play in social development of Pakistan? To examine if the NGOs succeeded or failed to deliver their services in the political development? To determine what possible course could be adopted if the part NGOs is inconsiderable in political and social development of state. Theoretical Framework: NGOs play their part as a soft power and helps in strong economic development; they show the positive side of human nature, their main focus in on individual so the Non Governmental Organizations came under the liberalist school of thought. I have discussed the role of NGOs in socio-political development of state and supported my arguments keeping liberalism in focus. Research Methodology: Set of working methods and procedures that are being adopted to forgo this research process are mentioned as under. 1. Primary Data Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and Interviews The focus group discussion (FGD) is a rapid assessment, semià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ structured data gathering method in which a purposively selected set of participants gather to discuss issues and concerns base on a list of key themes drawn up by the researcher/facilitator (Kumar 1987). I have arranged a FGD between the students of Bahria University, National defense University, and International Islamic university who are living in Taxila, Wah Cantt and Islamabad. There were 2 sessions and each lasted about 1hour. No studies regarding Political development in context of Pakistan was found so primary data sources were being utilized such as the interviews of several individuals who attended the workshops arranged by the NGOs, for making them aware about the political processes were also taken. 2. Secondary Data Secondary data consists of the sources that do not contain firsthand knowledge or information. Books Internet News papers Case Studies Literature Review: Role of NGOs is described by many among which, Lewis summarized its three basic roles: Being the implementers, The catalysts and The partners. The implementer role is concerned with the mobilization of available resources to provide goods and services to deserving. Where as the catalyst role is the ability to inspire, facilitate or contribute to promote change and partner reflect the growing trend of NGOS to work with government. NGOs in the field are rapidly increasing but their potentials have remained unutilized because of diversity in their role. In 1980s, NGOs got attention in different areas of the development community. Crenea (1988) argued that NGOs came into the limelight after the attention was given by the individuals in area policies development. Hulme and David (1997), debated NGOs promote and utilize volunteerism; they can be more productive than government. NGOs encourage social change and protect individual rights by influencing social or market policies. (Kim, H., 2007) NGOs also participate in government policy formulation. NGOs in Pakistan are more active in the traditional social sectors: emergency support, rehabilitation health and education. Literature review pointed out the need for capacity building for NGOs in Pakistan. (Study of NGOs in Pakistan, 1999). In a research study of a NGO named Akhuwat, an Islamic MF provider, the authors (W. Akhter, N. Akhter Jafferi, 2009) found that an Islamic Microfinance provider is playing an important part in poverty alleviation, they cater the needs of clients, who have socially excluded themselves from the interest based conventional system, so they are providing hem interest free finances through which they can start their own new businesses. This NGO Akhuwat is thus contributing towards Social and human development. Variables: Independent variable Dependant variable Definition of Variables NGOs: Non-governmental organization(NGO) normally refers to institutions that are basically working for the benefit of society and do not operate for earning profits. They are usually formed by individuals, and can be financed by the governing parties, foundations or businesses. NGOs are engaged in different activities. NGOs may be fronts for various interest groups. Social Development: World Bank defines the Social Development as; â€Å"The process of increasing; The assets and capabilities of individuals to improve their wellbeing. The capacity of social groups to exercise agency, transform their relationships with other groups, and participate in development processes. The ability of society to reconcile the interests of its constituent elements, govern itself peacefully, and manage change.† Social development is to put all the focus on development of individuals in society. Which simply means that the party who is going to be benefit most out of development must be the people, that should not be limited to poverty alleviation but also a recognition that people, and the way they interact in groups and society, and the norms that facilitates such interaction, shape development processes. Political Development: Han Parks formal definition of political development is as follows: Political development may be defined in terms of the capacity of the political system to satisfy the changing needs of the members of the society (Park, 1984). Main Discussion: Objective-based NGOs: Most NGOs in Pakistan get resources and aid from foreign organizations. For example giant global networks like UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund Association), US-AID, UNESCO work with different NGOs in certain projects that ensure protection of human rights in Pakistan. With the expansion in NGOs, work towards political and social development has been initiated. The objective-based NGOs working in Pakistan are mainly focused on one specific target. There are NGOs working for rights of Human, Women, Children, Labour, Journalists, Religious minorities etc. There are plenty of organizations solely dedicated to working for welfare of youth, education, literacy and vocational training. Some NGOs work especially for adult-based education. There are plenty of NGOs working in health sector for mental health, maternity, population welfare, free eye care, drug addiction, cancer research, HIV aids, blood diseases, disability support etc. Rural, urban and community development programs are conducted by some NGOs. NGOs working for Social Development: NGOs have enormously worked on the social development of Pakistan. There are above 800 NGOs which are working in social development sector. Those organizations cover almost all the ignored aspects of society. Examples: Depilex Smileagain foundation is working for acid-burnt women. Their goal is not only to treat affected women but also to educate them enough to be a productive part of the society. This organization conducts special programs that train such women to stand up for themselves and continuous treatment gives hope to them. Along with conducting medical surgery, this NGO arranges for support groups and arranges for their job placement. Withholding to its name, this organization is voicing out its concerns about educating the society to end this issue once and for all and pleading to government for taking legal actions against it. There is an organization named Aahung, which has been working since 1995. The Aahung is an NGO operating all over in Pakistan has a name in working for human rights. Main purpose of this NGO is to give sexual and reproductive health awareness to men, women and adolescents. Since the topic of sexual education is taboo in Pakistan given our culture, society’s mindset and self-implied religious barricade, it’s a huge step on this organization’s part to implicate a medium of consciousness on this topic. In the long run, this will affect the country in most productive way if there is a possible way to control population. This can only be achieved if proper education and knowledge is spread amongst masses at a bigger level. Aahung is one such organization, which not only work towards providing services that protect sexual rights of an individual but it also collaborates with certain social and academic institutes in providing education towards this subject. NGOs working for Political Development: Given the political upheaval in Pakistan, there are very few NGOs which are working in political development sector. NGOs that are operating in this sector are not directly involved but they are indirectly working in cooperation with other organizations, which are either government operated or semi-government. Therefore, it’s hard to evaluate transparency of such organizations. NDI, IRI, UNDP, Aurat Foundation, SPO, The Asia foundation, DRI, PILDAT, FAFE are few organizations whose names are occasionally taken in media for working in political sector but the problem is that these organizations work seldom on political development sector or might be they are not getting acknowledgment from the government. NDI (National Democratic Institute) and PILDAT (Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency), are operating entirely independently and are focused in organizing different training sessions for youth, parliamentarians and women. Their goal is to strengthen the democracy and their recent projects were inducting training sessions for several party members and inviting them on one discussion forum. PILDAT is an entirely research based organization responsible for presenting legislations before parliament on issues like poverty-reduction, economy, trade etc. This governing body works closely with Parliament and Executive for guaranteeing a rational making of public policy, forming a think tank to attain progress. NDI is nowadays conducting an orientation for a policy-making group. This group consists of trainees who are recruited after a tough evaluation and they are responsible to come up with innovative ideas that can be translated in form of a policy. Therefore, youth is targeted as a tool to solidify the policy-making system of country and encouraging future policy-makers to understand the political system and take initiative. FAFEN (Free and Fair Elections Network), since 2009 has been actively involved in forming an enhanced framework for elections in Pakistan. Their recent projects include establishing election data center, mapping human rights organizations in Pakistan, strategic observation of election in Pakistan, mobilization of women voters etc. Their upcoming and on-going projects ensure eradication of mudded conduction of election, monitoring violence in elections and enhancing lucidity in elections for a long-term. NGO’s operating nowadays are focusing on RTI (Rights to information), therefore utilizing technology in their favor to accomplish their goals. NGOs like CDPI (Centre of Peace and Development Initiatives) and Bytes for All (B4A), work with ambition of utilizing digital platform for freedom of expression and protecting security and privacy rights. This organization works in both socio-political development sectors, utilizing communication mediums to achieve human rights and e-governance. Validity and Reliability: Validity refers to the accuracy or truthfulness of a measurement. In simple words it can be said as; are we measuring what we think we are measuring? There are no statistical tests to measure validity. All assessments of validity are subjective opinions based on the judgment of the researcher. Reliability is synonymous with repeatability or stability. A measurement that yields consistent results over time is said to be reliable. When a measurement is prone to random error, it lacks reliability. The same findings are being shown in context of social development with the help of qualitative research conducted on working of NGOs. Since 2009, NGOs are actively participating in goals that were only paper-based before. Limitations: The findings of this study are presented in view of certain limitations. Due to the scarcity of research studies, a lot of time was spent on gathering the relevant data material from the Internet or relevant books. Due to time shortage, interviews have only being taken from the individuals of twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, which makes the findings limited. With fewer respondents, tracking the Political development of Pakistan was comprised slightly. Conclusions and Recommendations:  · Conclusion: Hence from the above discussion it can safely be concluded that NGOs play an active part in the social development process of Pakistan, whereas Policitcal sector is lacking a bit. In objectives of the NGOs, its mentioned that they are targeting this area but truthfully, a lot of work is being required for the Political development. Government of Pakistan should intervene to make necessary arrangements, providing funds and resources so that the gap in context of political development could be fulfilled.  · Recommendations: The objective of this research was to evaluate and examine the impact of various activities being carried out by NGOs on contribution towards political and social development of the state. Further work on this area is required for the country to prosper both socially and politically. The study needs to be done on countrywide level, to determine the gaps on part of institutions. Necessary course of actions must be taken to remove the obstacles that are coming in the way towards strengthening the country both socially and politically. Analysis: In news of 15th April, Khyber-Pukhtunkhwa government has agreed to give aid to active organizations that would renew their MOU (memorandum of understanding), thus the argument of NGO officials about lacking resources is nullified. Transparency can only be ensured if NGO operators put the funding in good use and work according to the objectives they mention on their official papers. Bibliography: Akhter, W., Akhtar, N., Jaffri, S. K. A. (2009). Islamic micro-finance and poverty alleviation: A case of Pakistan.2nd CBRC. Huntington, S. P. (1965). Political development and political decay.World Politics,17(03), 386-430. Kim, H. (2007). Discuss the impact of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and their limits and opportunities in relation to social development and civil society, making particular reference to examples from a selected country or countries.Social Policy Analysis, SLSP,5112, 16-22. Lewis, D. (2014). Non-governmental Organizations, Management and Development. Routledge. Nye, J. S. (1967). Corruption and political development: a cost-benefit analysis. The American Political Science Review, 417-427. Park (1984). Grounding political development. Two recent conceptions of political development. Accessed online on 12-April-2014. References: http://www.ngos.org.pk/ Express Tribune 15th April, 2014 IIP Digital 1

Comparing the Second Coming and to Things Fall Apart :: comparison compare contrast essays

The Second Coming Compared to Things Fall Apart    The book Things Fall Apart , by Chinua Achebe , is very similar to the poem , The Second Coming by William Butler Yeats.   Seeing the line â€Å"Things fall apart† in the poem , Achebe makes an outstanding association. At this point in time he says to himself, â€Å"I should name my book Things Fall Apart, It will show the main idea of the book.† One of the many coinciding concepts between the two is the daunted apprehension of both the poem and the book. In Things Fall Apart it seems like whenever the main character, Okonkwo, gains hope things happen to fall apart . The contents of The Second Coming told of a chaotic world and a base that could not hold because of it’s own inner conflicts. In Addition to the synonymous feeling both the book and the poem give, they both expose a great shift from and old era to a new era. The Second Coming reveals an apocolypse. Yeats shows this change by describing the conversions our world, as a global community, made throughout history. Key lines that refer to these changes in time are â€Å"Turning and Turning in the widening gyre the falcon cannot hear the falconer†. These lines refer to the constant adjustments we have to make and also the fact that we cannot go back in time . Chinua Achebe also reveals a major shift by describing Umuofa as it was in the beginning. In descr ibing Umuofa as it was originally he makes it easier to catch sight of the major changes throughout the story. Another coinciding idea in both pieces is the sacrifice of something to avoid changes that come along . Okonkwo ends his life as a last resort . In doing this he feels that he saves his honor and heritage . He also kills himself to dodge the pain and suffering that Christianity brought to his culture . â€Å"The Second Coming† warns us of an apocolypse . The apocolypse is the end of civilization in our world . What makes the poem so synonymous to the book is that in either case it is not possible to stop the changes from happening . A fourth coinciding idea in these two literary pieces is the loss of control of a higher power over a lower power .

Comparing Hercules by Walt Disney and Creating the Myth by Linda Seger

One of the greatest Greek mythological stories portrayed in a movie would be Hercules. Hercules is a well-known hero; he displays a supernatural individual who has to overcome the villain and his bad monsters. In â€Å"Creating the Myth† by Linda Seger, she argues that the hero myth as many obstacles (the death experience, the road back, the reborn) that he or she need to overcome to be transformed into a hero. However, these obstacles play a very important role in the hero’s stage of initiation. The movie â€Å"Hercules† by Walt Disney and the creator Alan Menken, we encounter the characters of the movie which are Hercules of course, Philoctetes the trainer, Pegasus the horse, loyal companion, Megera the love of Hercules and Hades the villain. All these characters connect strongly with Hercules because they guide him to become a hero. I argue that the movie â€Å"Hercules† follows the theory â€Å"the Hero Myth â€Å"by Seger, because he was a caring person who loved to help others; he evolved to be a strong person because he listened to his mentors that helped him gained strength, and was courageous individual because of all the obstacles he had to overcome. First of all, the character Hercules was a non-hero who later received the power of strength. As a young boy Hercules wished to overcome any problem and always had in mind to be a strong man and to do the impossible. For example, in the movie , Hercules is a hard working kid who later by his parents gained a valuable power of strength being â€Å"introduced in ordinary surrounding in a mundane world, doing mundane things â€Å" (Linda Seger 2) Hercules could not believe where all his strength was coming from because he had become too powerful to believe. Seger also explained that â€Å"this is how... ...ero and is well-known because he overcome all challenges and accomplished the mission to become a great hero because he is caring, strong and a courageous individual. Without these three powerful gifts Hercules would have not proven himself a true hero. Although, Hercules was not instantly known as a hero, he had to prove his will of becoming one and he sure did. From my point of view, I liked better the Disney version of Hercules than the real myth of Hercules because the movie includes comedy and is appealing to family and children. Seger explains, that â€Å"A myth is more than true because it is lived by all of us, at some level. It’s a story that connects and speaks to us all† (1) and I agree with her because every myth has logic and that logic will last forever. Works Cited â€Å"Creating the Myth† by Linda Seger â€Å"Hercules† Walt Disney. Creted by Alan Menken

An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge Essay

Reread the story â€Å"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge.† Think carefully about the following questions. They will help guide your reading and thinking about the story. Answer the questions in a thoughtful manner using complete sentences. 1.What is Peyton Farquhar’s occupation? Farquhar is a Southern slave owner who adores and tries to help the Confederate Army. 2.Why is he not a soldier, officer, or part of the army? He is not a soldier, officer, or part of the army because of circumstances of which are unknown. 3.How much time actually elapses between the opening and closing lines of Part III? Only a few minutes pass by between the opening and closing lines of Part III. 4.Describe the setting at the opening of the story. In the beginning of the story Farquhar is standing on a railroad above water with his hands bound with rope and a noose around his neck. There are two soldiers from the Northern Army, a sergeant, and a captain surrounds him. 5.Describe Peyton Farquhar’s last thoughts. Farquhar’s last thoughts are about escaping the execution and hail of bullets and go visit his family and wife. His wife was the last thought in his mind before he died from the execution. 6.Identify and describe the sound that disturbs the thoughts going through his mind. The sound that Farquhar hears is the amplified sound of the metallic clink of his watch disturbs his thoughts. 7.In the flashback of the story’s second section, who visits Peyton Farquhar? A Northern soldier comes to visit Farquhar at his home. 8.What plan does Farquhar conceive as a result of this visit? The Northern soldier is in disguise as a Confederate and informs Farquhar that he could easily set fire to the driftwood by the bridge. Farquhar accepts this idea. 9.What does Farquhar imagine in the story’s last section? Farquhar imagines that he walks back home and admire the landscape and is eager to return home. His wife comes to meet him but then a white light and silence engulf him with his death. 10.Ironically, what is his real fate? His real fate is death, but he imagines life while death proceeds him. 11.Summarize what you think this story reveals about the psychology of a person in a life or death situation. I think that in a life or death situation a person thinks about who they love and really embrace it. They think about the good and long so bad for life. 12.How does Bierce prepare us for the final outcome of the story? Bierce prepares the audience for the end of the story by setting up the beginning to be reality and then has flashbacks through out to reveal the irony in the end. 13.Do you think the writer tries to enlist your sympathies toward either the Union or Confederate side? Or, does the story seem more focused on a more general theme about the nature of war? Cite details from the story to support your answer. I think that the writer tries to earn your sympathy for the Confederates by describing how the Union posed as a Confederate to trick Farquhar which ultimately leads to his death. Also the writer tries to make Farquhar out to be in a way innocent and patriotic for his country and his Southern Army. There are mostly negatives about the Union in this story which makes the Confederates out to be good.

Bullying and Relevant Instructor Guidance Essay

Prior to completing this discussion, please read Chapter 5 in the textbook, review the information from Chapter One about Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological theory, read the Shetgiri et.al (2012) article, and review any relevant Instructor Guidance. Utilize Bronfenbrenner’s ecological theory to address the topic of motivations for and influences on bullying. †¢Identify and describe how a child’s environment might pre-dispose him or her to bully others. Use each of the five systems in Bronfenbrenner’s theory. Bioecolgical theory lies on the side of nature/nurture continuum that favors environmental influences over maturational development Mossler, R.A. (2011). Microsystem- Has a daily, direct impact on the child, contexts like school, peers, neighborhood, and religious affiliation make up the setting in which the child lives Mossler, R.A. (2011). Mesosystem- represents the interaction of the various components of the microsystem, like parental involvement in school and a child’s friends Mossler, R.A. (2011). Ecosystem – includes community and socioeconomic variable that have more indirect impact on the child. For example, there are circumstances when parents have to (or choose to) work more hours or where there are fewer resources for childcare and supervision. These conditions may change a child’s life Mossler, R.A. (2011). Macro system- represents the cultural contest, such as lases, traditions, and customs. For instance, some governmental and cultural institutions have programs that support health, education, and welfare of children; in others, simple being a girl will restrict access. Chrono system- shows the social and historical context within which the other systems operate, and how the four systems change over time Mossler, R.A. (2011). †¢How might parents be an influencing factor on whether or not a child is prone to bullying? Depends upon parenting style there are for different type that I read about in chapter five in chart 5.2 Parenting types. Authoritarian, Permissive, Authoritive, and Neglectful. The lack of parental control can lead to a greater risk delinquency. Without parental emotional rewards to guide a child’s behavior, the child will seek external reward which can be bullying. They tend to seek respects form peers. I only say this because I was child once was I remember kids being bullied by other  kids and it was not fun at all. I often wonder myself was something going on in that child’s home and they took out on the next kid just to make themselves feel good at the time. I can’t say I was bullied but I did fill like I was under attack and that was because certain boy like me in reality so he had make his self-look good in front of his friend but come to find out in his ou r high school years that he really like see I was what you call ugly duckling most girls were more developed and going through adolescent stage early and I was still in my natural state meaning I was not being grown before my time. †¢Find and report (with proper citation) one current statistic on the factors influencing school bullying behaviors. Bullying is the most common form of violence in our society; between 15% and 30 % of students are bullies or victims. A recent report from the American Medical Association on a study of over 15,0000 6th- 10 th graders estimates that approximately 3.7 million youth engage in, and more than 3.2 million are victims of, moderate or serious bullying each year http://www.nasponline.org. †¢Does this statistic seem to follow the same trend supported by Bronfenbrenner’s theory? If not, explain how it challenges the theory. Yes because it has become a widespread problem in school in our communities kids being threatened teased harassed and it has even went to cyber bullying and also have led to suicide just last year in my daughter school and around this area there were at three suicide during the her freshmen year in high school last year because of kid making comments on Facebook or twitter social media is the worst it is anti-social behavior that is learned through influences in the environment, home , school, peer group, even the media. Brfendebrenner’s theory confirms all the above. †¢Reflect on friendships in childhood and adolescence and address the positive and negative influences they can have on bullying behaviors. I can’t say that I was bullied but I did fill like I was under attack. That was only because a certain boy like me in reality so he had make his self-look good in front of his friend but come to find out in his our high school years that he really like see I was what you call ugly duckling most girls were more developed and going through adolescent stage early and I was still in my natural state meaning I was not being grown before my time. †¢Utilize problem-solving techniques in exploring developmental issues, grounded in child development, in order to provide one unique solution to  reduce or stop bullying. I would get the parents involved I am parent and if my daughter come home and tell me some is picking on her I want go straight to the source that means parents and all I would like to sit down and have meeting all the parts that are involved some we can get things resolved because after all a child behavior and how they act starts form home. Having positive environment and early intervention would good to more teacher training as well. . http://www.cdc.gov/ViolencePrevention/youthviolence/index.html http://www.nasponline.org/resources/factsheets/bullying_fs.aspx Mossler, R.A. (2011). Child and adolescent development. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc

Importance of Traditions in Richard Wagamese’s Keeper’n Me Essay

Any relationship goes two ways to keep our life in balance, and also affect our life whichever of family or culture. As Bernice Weissbourd says: â€Å"Because it’s not only a child is inseparable from the family in which he lives, but that the lives of families are determined by the community in which they live and the cultural tradition from which they come.† In Keeper’n me, for instance, Garnet Raven who was taken away from his family to a series of white foster homes when he was three. Garnet’s experiences as a result of the oppressive political and social policies. Moreover, Keeper as a storyteller tries to pass the message of traditions and a way of life to guide Garnet, who arrived in White Dog reservation with anything but Native, to find himself. Finally, Garnet dealt with fitting in the life on the reservation and acceptance of people that around him by learning the Ojibway culture that Keeper taught him. Through setting, character development and symbols the author shows that there is more significance to our actions and emotions in finding a place to belong and a balance of life. Traditions which means a custom or belief that has existed for a long time, affect a person’s identity. The protagonist of story, Garnet, initially feels uneasiness and disconnected from his family and his culture. Environment changes the way that he lives by taking him away from where he was born. When he first arrived at White Dog reservation, people laugh at him on account of dressing like a black man â€Å" I had my Afro all picked out to about three feet around my head, mirrored shades, a balloon-sleeved yellow silk shirt with the long tapered collar, lime green baggy pants with the little cuffs and my hippest pair of platform shoes, all brown with silver spangles, and three gold chains around my neck† ( Wagamese 45). He’s just like a tourist, not knowing what to do or what to be as an outsider in his culture. The society forces him to be someone else except Native. It reflects that he tries to fit into White world by being things that he is not because he was embarrassed to be Indian. This quote also foreshadows that he will find a place to belong as far as staying on the reservation to keep in touch with his family and Native culture. During a positive lesson of Native culture, he starts to fit in the society and gets acceptance of people. His mom gives him the shirt that he had on the day he arrived at reserve to remind him of where he came from and how he wanted to be. Although his mom revamps the shirt that â€Å" the sleeves were cut back regular, the long pointed collar was gone and the ribbons ran across the chest and back and down the arms† (Wagamese 301). He learns the traditional ways of Native and makes the connection with people, especially his family, and now he changes the way that he used to dressing. Everyone needs family in order to find themselves, no one could be his own person without knowing himself. The surroundings compel Garnet to learn Whites instead of his own culture cause he lost connection and himself. Setting is one aspect of the culture that affect Garnet’s identity in social way. The setting of the book is very important in Garnet’s character development and personal growth. The relationship between Garnet and his family is detached because he was raised by foster homes instead of his family, that makes him a lot differences between him and Natives. When he returns to the reserve, he has lots of things need to learn, especially the traditional Native spiritual ways. At the beginning of the book, Garnet was trying to act others except Indian such as â€Å"Hawaiian, Polynesian, Mexican or Chinese† (Wagamese 19). He felt lost in White society and tries to escape reality of being an Indian in respect that he doesn’t know how to be an Indian and never meet a â€Å"real† Indian until he back to the reservation. In this book, Keeper’s voice initiates the story that there is something to be learned about people, himself and his purpose. Keeper teaches Garnet the religious beliefs that helps him to find a balance in his life, and Garnet follows Keeper’s teaching to learn to become a storyteller that he will keep and teach Native traditions. Garnet follows the â€Å"Teachings. The blazes made by them that went before. The signs that mark the path we’re all supposed to follow. The path of the heart. The path of human beings. The red road† (Wagamese 305). To Garnet regard the loss of culture and the old teachings should follow it in order to be at peace with nature and people around us. It shows Garnet that his culture is decline and that he has a chance to become a keeper to teach and bring back the traditions. It also realizes the benefits of learning the way of Ojibway and being connected to his culture. The religious beliefs give Garnet a good sense of spirituality that he finds a culture to belong and knows himself about what he desires to be and how to do it. The character development is one aspect of learnings that affect Garnet’s identity in spiritual ways. The setting and character development that Garnet experiences in the story help reveal the powerful symbolism and themes. The drum symbolizes the connection of traditions and the traditional Native culture’s theme of respect. When Garnet first time to play the drum and tries to sing songs follow the beat, â€Å"The beat got all scattered and the song fell apart on its own† (Wagamese 135). He tries to feel drum and sing songs as an Indian but still have more white and black inside him that affect him more than Indian. It reflect that his emotions are confused just like he starts to play the drum but when he attempts to sing songs at the same time, he lost the rhythm. He doesn’t find a balance of playing drum and singing songs as well as he doesn’t find a balance of his life to fit in Native culture. This quote also foreshadows that he will learn the importance of drum in Native traditional teachings as a value of how it interacts with others. Drum is symbolic of how sacred and old their culture is. As Keeper said in the book, â€Å"The drum’s the heartbeat of Mother Earth† (Wagamese 163). Keeper was explaining how the land is an integral part of Native identity and how he feels the heartbeat of mother earth when he plays the drum. It is a connection to traditions and culture that remind Indian of simplicity kept them alive through everything and help them live in balance with the whole world. Drum also as a representation of female womb and the beating of the drum is like the beating of mother’s heart and represent the heart of the land. You treat a drum with respect as you’d treat your mom with respect. The values of traditions teach Garnet that finds a balance of his life and respect others especially mother. The symbol also is one aspect of Native culture that affect Garnet’s identity in emotional ways. Keeper’n me is a view of positive way in Natives’ life by teaching Garnet traditions, traditions affect Garnet’s identities. White society separates Garnet from his family on the reservation causes that he lost connection and place to belong. The values of environment views influence on Garnet’s social identity. Based on the setting, character development shows how Garnet felt lost and no beliefs at beginning, but during learning religious beliefs he feels connective and finds himself where he should be. The religious beliefs impact on Garnet’s spiritual identity. Ultimately, the symbol of drum highlights the significances of Native traditions and respect that helps Garnet finds balance of his life. The values of one interacts with others that teaches traditional ways affect Garnet’s emotional identity. Traditions are the most important part of our life, it shows acts, thoughts and influence of identity in our lives.

The Effects Of Hydration Health And Social Care Essay

Blood force per unit area, or the sum of force exerted on our arterias as blood is pumped through them, is frequently measured to estimate an person ‘s general province of wellness ( James 2010 ) . Age, weight, dietetic wonts, emotional conditions, and general fittingness all contribute to arterial blood force per unit area ( Weedman and Sokoloski 2009 ) . It has been confirmed by recent surveies that environmental factors, like quicksilver exposure, can act upon an addition in blood force per unit area over clip ( Valera et al 2009 ) . About tierce of grownups worldwide suffer from high blood pressure, or high blood force per unit area ( Castaneda-Bueno and Gamba 2010 ) . Using a factor of our ain, the lab pupils conducted an experiment to prove the association between desiccation and blood force per unit area. I hypothesized that desiccation had a direct relationship with high blood force per unit area and bosom rate ; that is, the more dehydrated an person, the higher their blood force per unit area and bosom rate would be. With increased hydration, blood force per unit area and bosom rates would diminish to endorse to basal rates. The significance of this peculiar analysis is to prove whether hydration degrees in an single influences their blood force per unit area and/or bosom rates. A similar experiment has been performed with hydration and blood force per unit area, and the consequences show that desiccation in babies may take to future high blood force per unit area in grownups ( Smith et al 2006 ) .MATERIALS AND METHODSTo run our experiment, we used an instrument called a â€Å" sphygmomanometer † to mensurate our arterial blood force per unit area. The group of topics dwelling of 26 pupils conducted three basal readings, before devouring H2O, at a somewhat dehydrated province. After two hours, our desiccation degrees were higher. Using our three basal readings we antecedently collected for control variables, we instantly began imbibing room-temperature H2O. I consumed about 16 ounces before taking the first of five blood force per unit area measurings, each done three proceedingss apart, for a corporate 12 proceedingss of appraising. Blood force per unit area, in this instance, would be the dependent variable, whereas the sum of H2O consumed ( hydration degree ) would be the independent variable. After carry oning the experiment and entering each blood force per unit area and bosom rate measuring, the group ‘s information was consolidated. Using all of the collected information, I averaged the blood force per unit areas and bosom rates, computed the p-values utilizing several of the informations sets coupled with the last measurings ( after 12 proceedingss ) by running six t-tests, and found the scopes of overall blood force per unit area and bosom rate.ConsequenceThis experiment was conducted to mensurate the correlativity between hydration and blood force per unit area and bosom rate. I compared six informations sets with the 12 minute station informations set by making paired t-tests ( table 5 ) , and found that three of them had a p-value of less than 0.05. This suggests that the variable alteration between the compared information sets has a less than five percent chance of happening by opportunity. The information sets that had important p-values were the radical pulse rate ( 3 ) , radical systolic blood force per unit area ( 3 ) , and diastolic blood force per unit area at clip 0. One information set, systolic blood force per unit area at clip 0, had a p-value of 0.06974 which is really close to significance but can non be considered as solid grounds. The other two informations sets, basal diastolic blood force per unit area ( 3 ) and pulse rate at clip 0, had really high p-values ( 0.407448 and 0.799202 ) and can non be used as support. The norms for systolic blood force per unit area, diastolic blood force per unit area, and bosom rate were calculated and plotted on three different charts in comparing to clip ( 0 to 12 proceedingss ) . Each of the charts illustrates similar inclinations. Get downing at a maximal value, there is an initial lessening from clip zero to six proceedingss ( values at lower limit ) . Then there is a little addition from six to nine proceedingss, and eventually, a little lessening at the terminal of the 12 proceedingss. In the instance of secret plan 3, the bosom rate mean remains changeless after six proceedingss. Harmonizing to table 4, the scopes for all pulse rates and all blood force per unit areas were calculated as 69 and 75/65, severally. Three separate tabular arraies ( 1-3 ) represent basal pulse rate and blood force per unit area norms, post-drinking pulsation rate norms ( at 12 proceedingss ) , and post-drinking blood force per unit area norms.Time ( min )036912Mean71.69 70.12 69.44 70.56 70.56Time ( min )036912Mean120/79 114/70 110/66 117/77 114/72Data SetsOverall PROverall BPScope69 75/65Basal Pulse Rate and Blood Pressure AveragesTable 1 Table 3 Table 5Post-Drinking Pulse Rate AveragesTable 2Post-Drinking Blood Pressure AveragesT-test Consequences( All paired with 12 min post informations )Scopes for Pulse Rates and Blood PressuresData SetsBasal PR 3Basal Systolic BP 3Basal Diastolic BP 3Time 0 PRTime 0 Systolic BPTime 0 Diastolic BPp-values0.00079 0.04239 0.407448 0.799202 0.06974 0.04954 Table 4Data SetsBasal Pulse Rate 1Basal PR 2Basal PR 3Basal Blood Pressure 1Basal BP 2Basal BP3Mean77.07692 79.23077 77.7307 112/70 110/70 107/69Time ( min )036912Systolic120114110117114Time ( min )036912Diastolic7970667772Time ( min )036912Heart Rate71.6970.11569.4470.5670.56Plot 1Plot 2Plot 3DiscussionMy hypothesis for this experiment was that increased desiccation in an person would demo increased blood force per unit areas and bosom rates. I predicted to see a dramatic lessening in these measurings from our basal readings ( dehydrated province ) to the 12 proceedingss after full hydration. After carry oning the experiment and running these t-tests with the collected information, there is important grounds to back up my hypothesis and suggest that hydration is negatively correlated with blood force per unit area and bosom rate. The value of 0.00079 agencies that the consequences of radical bosom rate ( 3 ) measurings correlate with hydration, and the chance of the diminishing tendency happening by opportunity was merely.079 % . Basal systolic blood force per unit area ( 3 ) had a p-value of.04239, and diastolic blood force per unit area at zero proceedingss had a p-value of.04954. The chances that those two occurred by opportunity were both under 5 % . This suggests that those measurings exceptionally declined as a consequence of increased hydration, which provides important grounds to back up my hypothesis. The graphs that depict blood force per unit area versus clip show that, from clip 0 to clip 12, blood force per unit area decreases from a high scope back down to a normal scope. Heart rate and blood force per unit area are, by and large, straight related, therefore my hypothesis should hold been reflected through the t-test computations of all blood force per unit area and bosom rate measurings. The three high p-values that contradict the remainder of the consequences could hold been due to input mistakes on the computing machine ; besides, some informations came up clean upon having the excel spreadsheet, hence some variables were non accounted for. Using the basal measurements we gathered from two hours before get downing this experiment likely skewed the consequences, for these Numberss could non accurately reflect what our force per unit areas and rates were at our most dehydrated province of the experiment ( right before imbibing ) . Another survey has been done to prove hydration and blood force per unit area, and the consequences show that hydration is straight related to lower resting blood force per unit area ( Patterson and Spinks 2002 ) . This survey ‘s t-test values were exhaustively important plenty to reason that the relationship between blood force per unit area and hydration is strongly, negatively correlated with one another ; as hydration increased, blood force per unit area decreased. The most of the consequences of our experiment do hold with this survey, chiefly with the significance of the low p-values and overall decision that hydration and blood force per unit area are negatively correlated. One failing in the process that I found to be a beginning of inaccuracy was the usage of basal measurings that we took at a more hydrous province than when we really started the experiment. To genuinely compare blood force per unit area and bosom rates before and after imbibing, we should hold re-measured basal rates under the most dehydrated province possible, right before we began to imbibe. Another possible failing in process was maintaining the volume of H2O invariable for every pupil. We do non cognize how much every one drank, precisely, hence consequences could hold been affected by deficient fluid ingestion and eventual rehydration. This experiment has led to the decision that hydration affects blood force per unit area and bosom rate ; from a dehydrated status, blood force per unit area and bosom rate by and large decrease as hydration additions.Literature CitedCastaneda-Bueno M, and Gamba G. Feb 2010. SPAKling insight into blood force per unit area ordinance. EMBO Molecular Medicine. 2 ( 2 ) : 39-41. James, DCS. Hypertension. FAQs.org. [ Internet ] . [ updated 2010 ] . [ cited 1 February 2010 ] . Available from: hypertext transfer protocol: //www.faqs.org/nutrition/Hea-Irr/Hypertension.html. Patterson SM, Spinks DE, and the Society for Psychophysiological Research. 2002. Relationship between hydration sweetening and blood force per unit area: More is better. Psychophysiology. Washington D.C. p 39. Smith GD, Leary S, Ness S, and The ALSPAC Study Team. 2006. Could dehydration in babyhood lead to high blood force per unit area? J Epidemiol Community Health. 60:142-143. Valera B, Dewailly E , and Poirier P. Nov 2009. Environmental Mercury Exposure and Blood Pressure Among Nunavik Inuit Adults. American Heart Association, Inc. 54:981. Weedman D, and Sokoloski ES. 2009. Human Cardiopulmonary Physiology. In: Biology of Organisms: Lab Manual for LIFE103, 5e. Mason, ( OH ) : Cengage Learning. p 173-184.

What If I Just Cant Bring Up My Grade in That One Challenging Class?

You’ve worked hard to achieve a shining high school transcript and standardized test scores to match. You participate in a variety of extracurriculars but have a clear area of specialty that makes you truly unique. You’re a strong leader, a hard worker, and a devoted community member. By almost every count you should be a shoe-in at any college. But what if math just isn’t your thing? Or what if your writing skills are a little lacking and always have been? What happens when you just can’t bring up your grade in that one pesky subject area? Are top colleges out of your reach? We at know that no one’s perfect. We’re used to helping students overcome obstacles and spin less strong subject areas as positively as possible. In this post, we’ll explore the implications of a single bad grade, explain some options for what you can do to head off its negative impact on your college admissions chances, and offer some broader perspective that will help to guide your approach to college applications and beyond. The easiest way to avoid that single less-than-stellar grade is to avoid that class altogether. While you might be tempted to sign up for every AP course and honors track possible, you need to set realistic goals based on your own strengths and abilities. By all means, choose courses that challenge you, but don’t choose courses that are completely beyond your abilities. And definitely, don’t be tempted to jump ahead too quickly in an attempt to build an ultra-impressive transcript. Ultimately, performing well in an easier class is always better than failing a difficult one. In addition, taking a course that’s too challenging for you might have a greater impact on your overall academic performance. If you’re stressed out and expending more time than usual on a single class, your performance in other classes might suffer. You might achieve poorer grades across the board or be unable to extend your usual time and effort to important extracurriculars. In the worst-case scenario, your own mental health or personal relationships could even suffer. Instead, it’s best to avoid the situation completely by selecting classes that strike the right balance for your abilities. Sometimes this means taking an objective step back, recognizing the areas in which you are prepared to handle the most challenging coursework, and acknowledging the areas in which you aren’t. Of course, hindsight is 20/20 and if you’re reading this, there’s a decent chance that you’re already enrolled in a class that is proving to be somewhat beyond your abilities. If this is the case, you’re not completely out of luck. There are a few key avenues you should explore to get the help you need. First of all, rest assured that it is absolutely okay to ask for help. In fact, we encourage it. Ask your teacher, your guidance counselor, a friend, or a family member. If they can’t help you in this particular subject area, they might be able to point you in the direction of someone who can. Your parents might be willing to get you a tutor, or your friend might be willing to work with you one-on-one. Teachers may even meet with you after school or during their free periods. No one wants to see you fail, so there is no reason for you to struggle alone. You just need to ask for help. You could explore existing video tutorials in the subject area. Khan Academy is one great resource for this. Finally, consider joining a study group or enrichment group. Sometimes, hearing a different perspective, especially from someone else who also previously struggled to grasp the content, can offer the additional insight that you need. Even if a certain subject never â€Å"clicks† with you, there are many avenues to get the help you need to get through an important class. It’s possible that you may be better at certain subfields within a subject. So, while you might struggle with geometry, you could find that algebra comes easily to you. Once you get past this course, you might find the next one easier. It’s always worth your best effort to get through it. There are times, though, when it might become clear that you’ve exhausted your resources and still are not going to be able to pass the class with a respectable grade. If this is the case, you need to consider your other options. At some schools, you might be allowed to switch from an honors or AP course to a regular version of the course during the semester. You’ll need to check your school’s offerings and policies to see if this is an option for you. This is a particularly good choice if you need to fulfill a graduation requirement in that subject area but have realized that your chosen course is too difficult a track for you. Another option is to drop the class completely. This is something that you should consider very carefully and discuss with your teacher and guidance counselor in advance. Many schools have only a narrow window in which you’re allowed to drop classes without them appearing on your transcript. You should be aware that if you drop a class outside of this window, it may appear on your transcript as a Failure Due to Withdrawal, or similar notation. You can learn more about the decision to drop a course in our posts, Should I Drop an AP, IB, or Honors Class? and How Do I Decide to Drop a Course? . Our Early Advising Program helps students in 9th and 10th grade discover their passions and build strong academic and extracurricular profiles to succeed in high school. Finally, as you set your sights on your dream colleges, you need to be realistic about your own strengths and abilities. Ivy League schools generally require strong grades across all subject areas. While there’s nothing to prevent you from applying to them even if you have struggled in one area, you should keep in mind that you will be at a disadvantage if you’ve taken a less challenging course track or achieved less than stellar grades in a particular subject area. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you won’t be accepted, but it does mean that you’ll need to make up for this deficit in other ways on your application. That is, you’ll need to truly excel in other areas if you hope to gain acceptance. Also keep in mind that in order to get the most out of your college experience, you need to attend a school that is genuinely a good fit for you. It may be tempting to get wound up in the name or prestige of certain colleges, but ultimately the most important factor should be how well a college fits your specific goals and needs. If you’re struggling to keep up with a specific challenging course track in high school, it’s likely that you could continue to struggle with it in college if you attend a highly selective school with core requirements in that subject area. The same can be said for your intended career path. If you have always struggled with math, but you’re interested in becoming an engineer because it seems exciting and fun, you may need to critically evaluate the feasibility of this path compared with your own areas of strength. Are there other, similar fields that might be better suited for you? By keeping a realistic perspective, you will be able to strike the right balance of coursework that challenges your abilities without overextending yourself. To learn more about registering for classes or how to cope with a single bad grade, consider the benefits of the Near Peer Mentorship Program , which provides access to practical advice on topics from college admissions to career aspirations, all from successful college students.