Modern Day Hero Essay

H. English 12 February 27, 2013 Hines Ward as a Modern Hero There are very few people in the world today we can consider heroes. These people are almost always brave, honest, compassionate, and smart. These qualities can all be found in Hines Ward. The things that make him a modern hero are his outstanding football career, dedication to charity, and perseverance for equality. Hines Ward would have never been able to achieve any of his goals or aspirations without his football career. It is the vessel that carried him forward in life, and it is what put him on top.Ward started out at a small high school in Atlanta, and then he went to The University of Georgia where he was drafted to the professional football team, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ward was easily one of the best receivers to play in the NFL by far. In an article written about one of Wards hits where he broke Keith Rivers jaw, Larry Brown says â€Å"Lesson be learned: always go hard and stay on your toes when you’re oc cupying the same space as Hines Ward. Otherwise you’re going to wind up hurt. † (Brown).Just the idea that other players would have to pay attention to a singular player shows his ability. Even if Wards big hits weren’t enough, he is also one of eight people in NFL history to achieve a landmark 1,000 receptions. Hines is also the second player to have 1,000 receptions while also having multiple Super Bowl wins. Ward has been in multiple Super Bowls. In Super Bowl XL, he was recognized as the game’s MVP. Ward caught five passes for 123 yards, and had a touchdown. Even though he won this, he was still as humble as ever.Ward dropped a pass, and in an interview his teammate and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said â€Å"Hines was going to kill himself because he dropped a touchdown pass. But you know what? He came out and made plays when he had to and that's what he does. † (Super Bowl XL MVP). Ward is and forever will be one of the best players to play the game. There will never be many players who can match his intensity and ability. Although Ward ended up in a not so obscure place, he started very close to the bottom. He was born in Seoul, South Korea to his African American father nd his Korean mother. They moved to Atlanta, and his father left their family. Ward worked his way up from the bottom and had to deal with many obstacles along the way. Ward is very dedicated to helping other people overcome the same obstacles he himself overcame. In South Korea, Ward had to deal with discrimination due to being a mixed race child. After Ward became a professional football player, he was compelled to start a charity that would help deal with the issue of mixed-race discrimination in Korea and everywhere else.Ward called his charity The Hines Ward Helping Hands Foundation. Ward not only donates money, but much of his time to his foundation. In an interview about his charity Ward said â€Å"When I went to Korea and saw, firsthand, the biracial children, I could easily identify with them and they embraced me, like a hero. I do not want to let them down. I want to encourage them by providing them with resources and programs that will enhance their lives and chances for success in life. † (Interview with Eric Kuhn). Ward clearly wants to do his best to help these kids.He shows perseverance and helps to provide these underprivileged children with hope for their future. Other traits that make a modern hero are humility and a positive attitude. Ward is a player that demonstrates both. He is one of the hardest hitting players in the NFL, and one of the most humble. Ward says that â€Å"It's like my mother still tells me, ‘Always be humble, and never forget where you came from. My story is kind of a perfect story, of how I was able to overcome all that. Maybe some other kids can use that as motivation. † (Hines Ward).Ward knows how lucky he is to have all the opportunities he was granted, and he doesnà ¢â‚¬â„¢t take these opportunities lightly. Ward also has a very positive attitude. Many players recall after hitting him, or being hit by him that he always had a smile on his face. In a play against the Seahawks, Ward caught a pass and ran into the endzone for a touchdown. It wasn’t the play that was extraordinary, but it was how Ward made the play. He ran the ball in the whole way, smiling. The NFL even took the picture taken of him making the play and made it into one of their go to advertisement pictures for the next year.The NFL put it on a raft of official publications the next year; it was that iconic, that unusual. â€Å"The NFL put it on a raft of official publications the next year; it was that iconic, that unusual. † (Collier). This one picture shows off Wards entire football career. Ward is just a regular guy, playing the game he loved every day, and doing it all with a smile on his face. He is an inspiration and a role model for all young people to look up to. Ward is easily one of the best people to ever play football, both on and off the field.His positive attitude mixed with his humble upbringing and overall ability is what makes him a modern day hero. Ward retired from the NFL with an unparalled dedication to his team. â€Å"Hines Ward believes he can still play football. The longtime Pittsburgh wide receiver known for his high-wattage smile and his bone-crunching blocks just couldn't stomach the thought of doing it in some strange uniform on some strange field with nary a Terrible Towel in sight. † (Hensley). Ward retired with dignity as an all-time best Steelers receiver, and he is a person that everyone can find some inspiration in.

Convenience Store and Causeway Bay Essay

My favourite shopping centre is Times Square. It’s in Causeway Bay. I usually go there with my family on the weekends. I like to go with my family because I like to spend time with them, so we can know each other even better, make our love and care deeper too. Weekends are the best time to go because we don’t have to go to school and neither does our father need to go to work. It has a lot of facilities like a cinema, 4 floors of restaurants and photo sticker machines to remember that beautiful moment!! It also has shops with the newest and trendy brands like clothes, jeans, mobile phones and even toys. The also have some jewellery and bag shops which I like to buy. They have some convenience stores, like 7-eleven and circle k. Where we can find snacks after shopping because you do get tired holding those bags. I usually take the 8P bus because it’s convenient and cheap. They also hold some concerts or parties for special occasions like: Halloween, Christmas or Easter. I think it opens around 8 or 9 in the morning and closes at about 12 or 1 at night. I like it because it’s fun to shop although it could be expensive! Or just come to watch the movies and have dinner with your family or friends. I remember I was around 3 years old when I first went there, because at that time I lived in Causeway Bay, just next to the Times Square!

Winstons

Winston Lavendier October 13th, 2010 Advertisement essay This essay is on an advertisement for Nolan's Cheddar Cheese â€Å"seriously strong†. This video had won the two thousand ten best television advertisement award. Basically this video is a mouse coming out of its mouse hole to encounter a rat trap with the Nolan's Cheddar Cheese on it. So the mouse starts to eat the cheese, and after being about halfway done with the cheese, the rat climbs on top of the rat trap like it is on top of the world and the rat trap snaps.Then the video pans and it seems like the rat is going to die but all of a sudden the mouse starts to bench press the rat trap bar then the screen fades away and it says Nolan's Cheddar Cheese â€Å"seriously strong†. What my point is in this essay is that two things that sell products and make good commercials is sex and funny. If you have one or more of these in your commercials then it will turn out good. But now a days most commercials sell on sex.B ecause if they deceive the viewer into to thinking they can get some then they will win them over and buy their product. This commercial that I am writing about is not about sex. But it does deceive the viewer like any other good commercial. By showing the viewer that if you eat Nolan's Cheddar Cheese then you will be incredibly strong. And get your self out of death by using the muscle you just gained from eating Nolan's Cheddar Cheese.With the way all of these television commercials have been going lately they all advertise about sex from deodorant to shampoo to alcohol to any kind of product. Bottom line is that they all try and do one thing and one thing only. That is to device the viewer into buying their products. What I like about this commercial is that it does not have anything to do with sex in it but yet it can still sell a product and win the two thousand ten best television advertisement award and yet get the job done of deceiving the viewer.

What is Happiness Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

What is Happiness - Essay Example Thus the utilitarian position argues very strongly in favor of the concept of the maximum happiness. This principle of happiness is considered correct irrespective of the fact that the act that whether the action is performed out of a pure intention and motive of helping someone or whether the act is performed for personal interest. That is the utilitarianism considers an act which brings about the maximum happiness even if the person who performed this act did not do it with the intention of doing something good (Mill 1867, McMahon 2010). The utilitarian concept explains that the key to leading a moral life is the consideration of the benefit of the maximum people. This concept explains that proper education and learning can teach a person that which acts will bring about happiness. This is because it is through experience and learning that a person knows how this world has evolved and what acts are moral and will be good for the maximum number of people. The arguments that are used to support this position are convincing but there are reasons which provide an insight into the flaws that have been overlooked by the utilitarian position. During the reign of Hitler in Germany, experimental work was conducted on the Jewish slaves. The purpose of these experiments was to learn about the pathological conditions that affected humans so that the life quality and expectancy of the human beings could be improved. These experiments provided the ground for many discoveries and many things were learned from them but many detainees on whom these experiments were performed lost their lives in the process. The purpose of these experiments was to serve humanity and they did work towards bringing about the benefit of the maximum number of people by improving their lives as well as the lives of the future generations. But this benefit was obtained at the stake of

Substance Abuse Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Substance Abuse - Essay Example Some people argue that recreational use of drugs is not harmful, however studies show that use of recreational drugs leads to addiction and permanent usage of drugs. People who support the recreational use of drugs favor the use of Marijuana as they feel it is not harmful for people. However, recent studies show that marijuana is also harmful for human beings. According to National Institute of Drug Abuse, marijuana users become dependent on others. They find it hard to understand different aspects of life and others assistance on every aspect. It is also important to note that illegal drug is not the only thing that creates addiction in an individual. Things like medicine, alcohol, tea, coffee etc could also create addiction which may cause problems for an individual (á ¸ ²aminer, 2010). Treatment The aim of the treatment of patients for substance abuse is to take them to a point where they are free of the dependency and habit of using illegal drugs. Although, the patients may not get rid of the problem completely, but the negative effects of the use of such drugs may be negated from such treatment. Studies show that 60 out of 100 are treated with desired results, as the dependency of drug addict patients reduces with the treatment.

Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 12

Case Study Example In addition, the company has taken an initiative that basically involves construction of schools and hospitals in the areas where victims of the fire inhabit. This approach can be regarded as corporate social responsibility; it is an imperative approach that has been employed by many major companies overtime and has been associated with various benefits i.e. improving company-clientele relationship et cetera. Taking an analysis of the actions that were taken by the government, it is apparent that they were basically geared towards promoting healthy and safe modes of production in the garment industry. The approach taken by the government that basically involved gradual implementation of safety rules is appropriate. This is due to the fact that the process of implementing rules is usually performed on a gradual basis, as institutions require substantial amount of time to adapt to new rules. However, the major mistake that was made by the government arises from the fact that, the rules should have been formulated and implemented before beginning production processes in the garment

The Ethical Way Forward for Procurement of Organs Dissertation - 1

The Ethical Way Forward for Procurement of Organs - Dissertation Example According to the research organ procurement is the set of procedures that includes administrative, authoritative and ethical processes observed in the acquisition of organs for transplant via affiliations, systems or programs. The entire organ procurement procedure includes by consent seeking from the donors or donors’ relatives or acquaintances and the transportation of the organs so obtained from the donor through tissue harvesting to the respective health centres for further medical processing and eventual transplant into the recipient. Organ procurement began as a basic endeavour when affiliations that specialized in kidney transplantation obtained organs and used them to save other lives in the same facility. As the demand for organs and speciality in the transplantation of other solid organs as the heart, small intestines, pancreas liver and lungs among others augmented in the society, the dire need of developing enhanced and ethical organ procurement, distribution and s haring agreements was acknowledged. Because of the high demand for organs for transplant in contemporary times, numerous organizations, through the efforts of physicians, scholars and medical personnel, are operating to counteract the looming shortage to avoid deaths. I would wish to expound on this aspect by drawing an instance of organizations that are pertinent to enhance the entire organ procurement procedures. This addresses the dire need for organizations to come up to ensure that organ procurement continues as it should. For instance, affiliations and networks such as the SEROPP, SEOPF and OPTN in the US were formed that operated within the constitution to introduce efficient organ procurement enhancements that resulted into the betterment of the entire process. Some of the enhancements include tissue typing, computerized kidney-matching, educational programs regarding organ procurement and government controlled systems that improved and controlled identification of organ don ors (Mary et al. 2010). The procurement procedure is a procedural process that involves initial identification of brain-dead givers. The concerned physician conducts this practice. Hospital guidelines and the laws of the state are extremely imperative in the determination of the brain-dead patients. The patients stay under ventilator machines as physicians conduct further procedures on them. On completion of verification of brain death of the patient, the procurement body gives the guidelines and details of what needs to occur before transplantation. The core purpose of contacting the procurement plant is to allow discussion with the family of the deceased regarding procurement of the donor tissues or organs for further transplantation. Procurement body consultation is consummately augments consent by the concerned

Current Event Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Current Event - Essay Example s to achieve a two-fold objective, to wit: (1) to provide explanations on the issues discussed within the article; and (2) to demonstrate the ways that the article is related to the course material. Terkel noted Pelosi to emphasize that Republicans were advancing three legislations that limit or restrict access to abortion by (1) preventing the use of taxpayers’ money to fund abortion-related services; (2) denying tax credits to employers or business establishments that allow health coverage of employees with abortion access; (3) denying â€Å"federal family-planning funds under Title X to groups that offer abortion access† (Terkel, 2011, par. 4); and (4) allowing hospitals to turn away women who opt to terminate pregnancy even for the purpose of saving lives (Terkel, 2011, par. 5). The concerns raised by Pelosi are related to the issues on women’s health, particularly on reproductive health and reproductive rights (Kirk and Okazawa-Rey, 2004, p. 173). The topic of abortion is still a controversial issue when taken within a global perspective. Not only to take into account the issue seen as barred and illegal in predominantly Catholic nations, the issue has been monitored to provide risks to women (Malter and Wind, 2012). Accordingly, â€Å"research from WHO shows that complications due to unsafe abortion continued to account for an estimated 13% of all maternal deaths worldwide in 2008; almost all of these deaths occurred in developing countries† (Malter & Wind, 2012). The concern on Pelosi, as disclosed in the article focused primarily on the legislation that sought to deny federal family planning funds to groups that offer access to abortion services. As averred, â€Å"I cant believe that everybody who is anti a womans right to choose is anti-birth control and contraception and family planning† (Terkel, 2011, par. 7). Aside from denying rights to avail or restrict access of services to abortion, these legislations actually aim to limit the funds to be

History of the European Theatre Art Research Paper

History of the European Theatre Art - Research Paper Example The history of the development of theatre performances in Europe can be traced back alongside the Greek history, which began around 700 B.C. The Greece had numerous festivals in honour of their gods such as Dionysus in whose honour; the festival of the city Dionysia was performed. People involved themselves in revelry during these times while the festivities of the whole occasion were always led by drunkards who would hide their identities by wearing goatskins as they performed. These ceremonies were usually flowered with fierce competitions from the different Greek communities in attendance and the winning communities would always enjoy the honour of being crowned the winners of the festivals. Most plays that were presented during this time in Greek were majorly tragic- comedies that were based on love and romance as viewed in the context of the people of that time, the term ‘tragedy’ originated from the Greek name for ‘goat skin’ that were worn during thes e performances. Collin notes that most of theses plays owed their main thematic origins from the Greek mythologies and the histories about the human personal life and expressed man’s quest to relate the meaning of life and the nature of their gods. Their performances followed a specific format whereby they were usually accompanied by songs introducing a period of paradox, the time during which the characters were introduced, the mood for the plays set in the minds of the viewers and the expositions made concerning the nature of the plays. Some of the very common plays that were performed during this time in the Greek theatres include Sophocles and Euripedes that were common in the fifth century performances. A Writer such as Aeschylus, a performer at shows in Dionysia at around 499 B.C., was among the first writers of this kind and whose writings are among the oldest in the Greek history of theatre arts. Others include Sophocles with his famous works such as Antigone Electra and the Oedipus Rex. Aeschylus (525- 456 B.C) and Sophocles (496- 406 B.C) added major contributions into the Greek theatre by introducing the second and the third actors to the stage respectively. Moreover, they led to the improvement of the quality of the songs and increasing the number of singers on stage thus giving theatre performances a more realistic dimension and giving the viewers what they liked most (Brockett 2003). The new dimension had more impact on the viewers as

Philosophy of social work Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Philosophy of social work - Essay Example I have not only answered these questions, I feel that I have elaborated on them and asked further questions to the principal answers, in order to explore them on deeper levels. I feel that the resulting answer reflects not a simple, pre-determined response to the question; it rather reflects a step by step response to the question – a response I did not know I would provide until I had assessed and recorded it. In relation to philosophical concepts, a single, predetermined answer is not possible, or rather lacking as a response. Rather, my staged self-exploration provides a deeper understanding of my philosophical approach to social work. Before I attempt to define my own personal philosophy of social work, I feel that a more ample beginning is required; a much more basic start from which I can build the foundations of my personal philosophy. I feel that I must define the term ‘social work’; what it means to me, how I interpret it and adopt it in my work. For to do this is to have constructed a basis when properly answering the question ‘what is my philosophy of social work?’ To explore the personal definition of the very concept I seek to explain my philosophical outlook upon, I explore the methods and basic contexts within which I try to define the term. I bring everything together neatly, which was once jumbled and unexplored until now. So, the beginning: what is social work to me? How do I define it and with what frame of mind? To help others, to bring those in need to an equal level with others, to achieve and maintain justice, to keep a constant compassionate and optimistic outlook, to ensure liberty, to restore and assign rights. This is social work....to me. And when further trying to define these terms and meanings, I find that I am further developing and utilising my philosophical outlook, and discovering how I approach these definitive tasks. It appears to be more than a simple answering of the question; it is more

Competitive Position Essay Example for Free

Competitive Position Essay In this assignment we tried to look into the Baja Auto’s own position in Indian domestic market and how it has performed in last year compare to local rivals. In addition, we suggest company to invest directly in America’s automobile industry as America and India is more or less similar in terms of operating multinational organisations. As, it is a long term investment and high risk strategy for company, we clinically analysed new market scenario and different aspects of it. 1.0 Competitive Position Baja Auto is ranked as the world’s fourth largest two and three wheelers production company. It is in two wheelers and three wheelers Indian market since 1945 and recognised brand across Asia, Middle Eastern countries, Latin America. Bajaj Auto shares 26.70% of two wheelers market in India, fairly behind Hero Honda Motors which has 41.35% Indian customers, and ahead of TVS Motor Company which holds 18.14%. But when it comes to three wheelers vehicles, Bajaj Auto clearly control the majority of the market with 58.60%, much ahead then Piaggio Vehicles 32.70%. Bajaj’s closest competitor in two wheelers market is Hero Honda Motors. Hero Honda sold 3.72 million two wheelers units, almost double then Bajaj, who managed to sold 1.28 million units. Bajaj Auto is the country’s largest exporter of two- and three-wheelers. During 2008-2009, Bajaj Auto’s international sales achieved an all-time high of 772,519 units of two and three wheelers, representing a growth of 25% over the previous year. (Sources: Automobile Industry report -2012, India). Though, there is a huge difference in terms of selling units between three major players of India’s two wheelers, their growth rate is almost similar to each other. Hero Honda Motors enjoys 15.4% growth in 2012, and it was followed by TVS Motor and Bajaj Auto with 13.3% and 13.2% respectively. (Sources: Annual reports of Bajaj Auto, Hero Honda Motors and TVS Motors-2012). In plant wise capacity Bajaj Auto clearly out plays its competitors. Bajaj Auto has 4 active plants compare to 3 of each for Hero Honda motors and TVS Motors. Therefore Bajaj has upper hand in terms of number of units’ productions. Bajaj Auto’s plants are capable of producing 5 million units of vehicles compares to Hero Honda’s 4.75 million and TVS’ 4 . 50 million of units. (Sources: Automobile Industry report-2012, India). Adopted from Automobile Industry report-2012, India. 2.0 Market Entry Bajaj Auto is highly recognised company throughout the world and has vastly experienced management team. In addition, it has its own technology labs, engineering colleges and very strong labour power. Apart from having a fair amount of domestic market share, it is a leading exporter of India. Bajaj is famous for manufacturing two and three wheelers which have good fuel efficiency and strong outer body and comes in very cheap prise compares to other manufacturers. It is right time for the company to move forward and make its own base in well developed country like The USA, which help company to reduce the good amount of money spent on exporting its products to Latin America and Africa and moreover, America itself has huge crowd who are struggling with current worldwide economic downfall and looking for cheap available options. 2.1 Reason for Entering Into the USA Market PESTLE analysis is an useful analysis tool to evaluate future plans and it helps organisations like Bajaj Auto who is going to enter in new business environment to understand the risk associated with its next move .PESTLE helps company to analyse its position, potential and direction in new market place. 2.1.1 Political Situation of the USA It is very important to assess political condition of new working field before moving abroad. It helps company like Bajaj to make its business strategy. America is strong democratic country like India the motherland of Bajaj Auto and this will work company’s favour as it knows the pros and cons of such a political environment. 2.1.2 Economy The US has the largest and most technologically powerful economy of the world, with per capita GDP of $49,800. US Business companies have more flexibility than any other part of the world in decision to expand their capita plant. . At the same time, they face higher barriers to enter their rivals home markets than foreign firms face entering US markets. It is lucrative industry to enter for foreign company like Bajaj Auto. 2.1.3 Social America’s population is 316,668,567 which consist of 79.96% white, black 12.85%, Asian 4.43%. 40.2% of America’s population is 25-54years old. 82% population is urbanised and an annual urbanisation rate is 1.2%. 99% of total population is literate. 2.1.4 Technological highly diversified, world leading, high-technology innovator, second largest industrial output in world; petroleum, steel, motor vehicles, aerospace, telecommunications, chemicals, electronics, food processing, consumer goods, lumber, mining. Bajaj Auto will enjoy a good amount of success due to technological expansion of the company which is comparably low in India. 2.1.5 Legal America has strong, fast legal system which gives every individual a fair chance to appeal decision of the court. Supreme court is the highest body who makes the final verdict on any legal issue. 2.1.6 Environment Air pollution resulting in acid rain in the US ; the US is the largest single emitter of carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels; water pollution from runoff of pesticides and fertilizers; limited natural freshwater resources in much of the western part of the country require careful management; desertification. Bajaj Auto developed the technology in recent years and some of its vehicles run on CNG and LPG which reduce the amount of carbon dioxide. This technology gives company an edge over its competitors to gain confidence of the US government to enter into their market. (Sources: http://www.cia.gov/library) 2.2Market Attractiveness DIAMOND MODEL Source: Porter, M. (1990) 2.2.1 Firm strategy, structure and rivalry As mentioned earlier, Bajaj Auto is famous for producing light weight two and three wheelers vehicles which have good fuel efficiency and strong body and it’s new for American population. There is no strong competitor in market at the present that can threat the position of Bajaj Auto in its production range. Bajaj Auto manufactures couple of motorbikes like Pulsar, Duke, and Discover which is heavy but it will not be a good idea to launch them in America as Harley Davidson, Yamaha motors, Kawasaki motors have strong hold on American customers. Bajaj Auto follows hierarchical strategy which resulted in advantages within industries and it helps company to gain upper hand in competition with major players. 2.2.2 Demand Conditions Light motorcycles, the summary say, will outperform other ICE product types and maintain their position as the largest single segment of the motorcycle market in America. This will be due to several factors, including the fastest population growth of any region, the lowest median age and the lowest (but climbing) per-capita GDP. (Source: world demand motorcycles grow). This is good future aspect for Bajaj Auto to succeed in international adventure. 2.2.3 Factor Endowment America has strong and large factor endowments compare to Western Europe. The US has comparative advantages of skilled workers, infrastructure, open market entry for international companies, natural resource and technology. Romalis (2004) provides a quasi-Rybczynski prediction, â€Å"if a country accumulates a factor more rapidly than rest of the world, then that country’s production and exports will systematically shift toward that more intensively use that factor.† The US has well developed technology when it comes to motorbike industry and that attracts Bajaj Auto to gain an entry in this market. 2.2.4 Related and Supporting Industries The US is rich in producing natural resources like iron, lead, petroleum, natural gas. In addition America has the world largest coal reserve with 491 billion short tons accounting for 27% of the world’s total.(Source: http://www.cia.gov/library). Strong supply chain of motorbikes engines parts, raw material for motorbike body, leather and machineries are always key factors in success of automobile business and America provides all these features to Bajaj Auto. 2.3 2.3.1 Target Market Young, universities’ students, African and Asian immigrants, middle class families and small vendors should be first priority as a target market for Bajaj Auto as they share large number of total American population (see 2.1.3). Above mention customers have limited resources of income and other responsibilities and therefore they always look out for cheap available option. The kind of two and three wheelers Bajaj Auto produces are low in prise and have high fuel efficiency. These two points will work in company’s favour and manage to pull big crowd. Once company get established, it can launch the range of heavy weight vehicles to provide competition to giants like Yamaha, Royal Enfield, Honda and Harley Davidson.

Hospitality and Tourism Management Essay Example for Free

Hospitality and Tourism Management Essay The K-12 program covers kindergarten and 12 years of basic education ( six years of primary education , four years of junior high school to provide sufficient time for mastery of concepts and skills, develop lifelong learners, and prepare graduates for tertiary education , middle-level skills development, employment ,and entrepreneurship. the enhanced basic education act of 2013 , or republic act no. 105333, was signed on may 15, 2013. K-12 is a helpful tool that can strengthen early childhood education, make the curriculum relevant to learners , ensuring integrated and seamless learning ,building proficiency through language , gearing up for future and most of all nurturing the holistically develop Filipino. Every graduate will be equipped with information, media and technology skills, learning and innovation skills, effective communication skills and life career skills. Program implementation in public schools is being done in phases starting SY 2012-2013. Grade 1 entrants in SY2012-2013 are first batch to fully undergo the program, and current 1st year Junior High School Students (or Grade 7) are the first to undergo the enhanced secondary education program. To facilitate the transition from the existing 10-year basic education to 12 years, DepEd is also implementing the SHS AND SHS modeling. .Each student in Senior High School can choose among three tracks: Academic; Technical-Vocational-Livelihood; and Sports and Arts. The Academic track includes three strands: Business, Accountancy, Management (BAM); Humanities, Education, Social Sciences (HESS); and Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM). Students undergo immersion, which may include earn-while-you-learn opportunities, to provide them relevant exposure and actual experience in their chosen track. The enhanced curriculum for grade 1 and grade 7 ( 1st Year Junior High School ) was rolled out SY 2012-2013 , and will be progressively introduced in other grade levels in succeeding school years. Grade 11 will be introduced in SY 2016-2017 AND GRADE 12 IN SY 2017-2018. The first batch of high school students to go through K to 12 will graduate in march 2018. DepEd has entered into an agreement with business organizations, local and foreign chambers of commerce, and industries to ensure that graduates of K to 12 will be considered for employment. There will be a matching of competency requirements and standards so that 12-year basic education graduates will have the necessary skills needed to join the workforce and to match the College Readiness Standards for further education and future employment. Entrepreneurship will also be fostered in the enhanced curriculum; ensuring graduates can venture into other opportunities beyond employment. After finishing Grade 10, a student can obtain Certificates of Competency (COC) or a National Certificate Level I (NC I). After finishing a Technical-Vocational-Livelihood track in Grade 12, a student may obtain a National Certificate Level II (NC II), provided he/she passes the competency-based assessment of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). NC I and NC II improves employability of graduates in fields like Agriculture, Electronics, and Trade. Target Market 12-13 years old who supposed to graduate grade 6 this year but will be introduced to k-12 program. Grade 5 and 6 students Youth that belongs in the poor families with potential to be out of the school youth after their high school years. Schools Professors – lecturer SY 2011-12 SY 2012-13 SY 2013-14 SY 2014-15 SY 2015-16 SY 2016-17 SY 2017-18 GR 12 2 YEARS SENIOR GR 11 HIGH SCHOOL HS IV (15 yo) GR 10 4 YEARS JUNIOR HS IV (14 yo) GR 9 HIGH SCHOOL HS IV (13 yo) OLD CURRICULUM GR 8 HS IV (12 yo) NEW CURRICULUM GR 7 GR 6 (11 yo) GR 6 6 YEARS GR 5 (10 yo) GR 5 ELEMENTARY GR 4 (9 yo) GR 4 GR 3 (8 yo) GR 3 GR 2 (7 yo) OLD CURRICULUM GR 2 GR 1 (6 yo) NEW CURICULUM GR 1 KINDER (5 yo) KINDER Analysis of Case During the period of governance of Spain and the United States, education in the Philippines changed radically, mostly modeled on the system of education in the United States of the time. After gaining independence in 1946, the systems were no longer automatically applied in the Philippines, which have since moved in various directions of its own. Filipino children may enter preschool at the ages of three to four, starting from nursery, and kindergarten. At the ages of six to seven, children enter elementary school for six or seven (on selected schools) years. This is followed by the high school, for four years. Students may then sit for the College Entrance Examinations (CEE), after which they may enter tertiary schools for two to five years. The Philippine educational system pursues the achievement of excellent undergraduates in the elementary and secondary level. Implementation of UbD is one of the proposals that undertook in the country recently. At present, the Department of Education pronounces the addition of two more years in the basic education of students, which according to them will benefit not only the Filipino youth but all the Filipinos in the Philippines. This proposal is part of P-noys Educational Reform Program. The administration asserts that with the implementation of such program, the problem of unemployment in the country will be resolved. In as much as employment in the Philippines is concerned, the K12 education also responds to the fact that most countries in the world already have the same plan in their educational institutions. With this, the standards of these countries go a notch higher than what the country has, thus, creating an expansion in the global competency. What can be really said about this plan. The K-12 Basic Education Program aims to provide every Filipino child with the education s/he needs to compete in a global context. In May, President Benigno Aquino of the Philippines signed into law a basic education curriculum that will see a mandatory kindergarten year and two additional senior high school years added to what was a 10-year education curriculum to make basic education 12 years. The programmed has been adopted not only in schools in the Philippines, but also in Filipino schools abroad that follow the department’s curriculum. Gulf news reports: The goal of the new curriculum is to give Filipino students enough time to master skills and concepts so that they are ready for tertiary education when the time comes. Kindergarten was previously optional, and advocates of the K-12 programme argue that students who went to kindergarten are better prepared for primary education than those who did not. In addition, the K-12 programmed â€Å"provides for the use of the ‘mother tongue‘ language as the medium of instruction for students in the basic and lower years to facilitate and expedite learning. † This fabulous interactive map of all public schools in the country could be a useful tool in planning a recruitment strategy. It contains data on the school’s budget, enrolment statistics, education indicators, number of teaching personnel, furniture, textbooks, classrooms, plus the water and power supply of some 45,000 schools nationwide. 10 Point Education Agenda The move to the K-12 policy comes as part of the 10 Point Education Agenda which was set out by the current government administration. The K-12 Basic Education Program, universal kindergarten and instruction in mother-tongue languages are but three of the ten points Aquino’s administration want to implement in order to improve the overall quality of education in Filipino schools. The other seven points include: Establish the Madaris Education as a sub-system in the current education system; Make every child a reader by Grade 1; Improve science and mathematics; Expand government assistance to private education; Better textbooks; Build more schools in cooperation with local government units (LGUs); Re-introduce technical and vocational education in public high schools. Australia extends a helping hand Australia has long been a friend to the Philippines – donating time, funding and other resources, as well as working with the nation to develop and ensure quality. Last month, the country grantedPHP 8. 4 billion (nearly US $193 million) â€Å"to address basic education issues and support the implementation of the K-12 programme. † They have also funded a project to â€Å"enhance the skills of school officials in managing school processes and turn schools into learner-centred institutions that continually improve and build on its best practices. † In return, Australia is surely hoping Filipino schools and students will select Oz as their destination of choice for partnerships and study. As ICEF Monitor reported in February, the Philippines is one of the top ten student markets for Australian schools, colleges and universities. Building classrooms and adding teachers As mentioned, one of the ten points on the Education Agenda aims to address severe overcrowding in Philippine schools and the shortage of classrooms. In October of last year, the Department of Education signed an agreement â€Å"with two winning consortia which will undertake the construction of close to 10,000 classrooms. † The department’s Public Private Partnership for School Infrastructure Project (PSIP) will give schools the physical space they need and â€Å"provides the private sector the business opportunity to invest in the design, construction and maintenance of classrooms. † Philippine Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro has said he hopes that by doing so, the classrooms would stand as a testament to Filipino capability and efficiency. Progress is well underway; construction of more than 9,000 classrooms began in March of this year. An increase in student enrolment which caused the shortage of teachers was due to an increase in kindergarten students – a result of the new K-12 curriculum, as well as students who were formerly enrolled in private school transferring to public school because of tuition fee hikes. Student enrolment in 2012/3 stood at 20. 67 million: 1. 77 million kindergarten students, 13. 26 million elementary students, and 5. 64 million high school students. Increased focus on vocational education A final point on the 10 Point Education Agenda calls for a re-introduction of vocational and technical education in high schools, which has been designed to give Filipino students practical skills to gain employment after graduation – a key component in tackling the high youth unemployment rate in the Philippines. Some advocates are calling for the adoption of the German model of apprenticeship. The Manilla Bulletin reported: It is hoped that adopting the German model would help address the skills mismatch between Filipino graduates and the jobs available. Ramon del Rosario, chairman of the PBEd, has said now is the time to implement the apprenticeship system, because of the start of the K-12 curriculum: â€Å"It is a good time because of the development of the senior high school curriculum and that will have a track towards technical vocational education. † In May, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) announced it had completed the K-12 technical vocational curriculum, and everything was in place for the start of the new school year. TESDA Secretary Joel Villanueva said, â€Å"Technical vocational education and training (TVET) will play a central role in the new education model that prepares students for tertiary education, middle-skills development, employment and entrepreneurship. † Courses include automotive servicing, horticulture, welding, consumer electronics, dressmaking/tailoring, carpentry, food processing and beauty care. The Philippines as a study destination Like many of its neighboring countries, the Philippines has its eye on becoming a study destination of choice for students from the Asia-Pacific region. In January of this year, the Philippine Bureau of Immigration reported that of the 203,753 foreigners in the country, 47,478 are studying in schools and universities across the country (which is 14% higher than the 41,443 foreigners who applied in 2011). The bulk of those (31,000) are under the age of 18 and studying at an elementary or high school or on a short-term (less than 1 year) course. The Bureau’s Commissioner Ricardo David Jr said: â€Å"Our country is fast emerging as a new educational hub in the Asia-Pacific region. More and more foreigners are coming here to study and it demonstrates recognition of the improved quality of our educational system. † He attributed the influx of foreign students to the quality of teaching and the use of English as the medium of instruction. Some of those students chose the Philippines to study English, and the government is hoping to boost ESL student numbers by making it easier for them to stay and learn. Last year, ICEF Monitor reported that for international students studying English in Australia, the Philippines had entered the competition as a destination option for the first time in 2011. Backing that up, an article in The PIE News quotes Ruth Tizon, Programmed Director of the Philippines ESL Tour Program, as saying, One thing is clear: the Philippines is looking ahead. With a growing population and a budding economy, demand for quality education is high. Many Filipino parents welcome the basic education reforms and are looking forward to more opportunities for their children in vocational and higher education. KEY ISSUE / GOALS The fact that the Philippines is the last country in the region to adopt a K-12basic educations system because it is not all about the trending basis but checking in accordance to the â€Å"reality†. During the assessment done by the prestigious organization Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), they conclude that the problem about the present curriculum in squeezing 12 years of basic education into just 10 is that students are overloaded with subjects which resulted to poor quality of basic education as reflected in the low achievement scores of Filipino students. International tests results like 2003 TIMSS rank the Philippines 34th out of 38 countries in HS II Math and 43rd out of 46countries in HS II Science; for grade 4, the Philippines ranked 23rd out of 25 participating countries in both Math and Science. In 2008, even with only the science high schools participating in the Advanced Mathematics category, the Philippines were ranked lowest. This quality of education is reflected in the inadequate preparation of high school graduates for the world of work or entrepreneurship or higher education . It is not the question of teaching force because internationally we can say that the country is equipped of well trained educators capable enough for the learning needed by the students in our country. In fact, teachers in our country are highly demanded and most preferred to be hired and work in other country. But it is the matter of the educational system that we have which is designed to teach a 12-year curriculum, yet it is delivered in just 10 years. Though some criticizing it as a way only to realigned as to what is the trending educational system to must have, then why not follow it if it will sustain the development of the educational system of our country and there is nothing wrong with it. As to the question of the consequences that will be brought by the policy, surely there will be many of those and it’s a part of the changes. Better because the government exists to uplift the standard of education in the country and not just sitting down to their respective offices and waiting what will happen to the future of the students experiencing the current system. The policy exist with provisions of program to be administered forthe sustainability of it, thus to relate it with economic hindrances it should be another story that is worth to be reflected and should not serve as a hindrance for the development of one system in our country (education). To reach the development wherein the citizens are wanting, admitting the fact that it couldn’t be happening simultaneously is the first step. Goals of k-12 Individualized learning customized to each child’s needs. Award winning curriculum that engages young mind from k to 12 with a rich combination of online interactive and offline hands-on learning High school full-and-part time options to help students find their own path A new kind of powerful, personalized connection with teacher Preferred alternative with rationale in this study I find out that k to 12 will have a big effect in our country and even in our industry. It is a good program that can provide many outcomes and may help our country men to arise. But I also notice that some of whom I asked if k to 12 will be the answer for the people to be more comprehensive and productive in man powering many had answer maybe and no . then I got this thought that It can help but people in our country don’t want to open their minds in this changes. People in our country nowadays is always looking forward to fast solutions and money at this state it is because of the arising poverty and the low demand for man power and they are afraid that if they will not chase the time there will be no jobs available for them. They are afraid that k to 12 will affect every industry in hiring people so as our industry because if we can see jobs in the hospitality industry is widely offered than that of the other careers . so I came up with the rationale that we are good enough in the old curriculum. Why did I say this but I did not yet see the effect of it in the students it is because we are also pushing students to work early , why we will do that if we really want to push them to work early is to decreased the level of education just like the old one. Many parent will be sacrificing much about it, I guess the answer of today’s crisis is to help those student to bring their selves up in the maximum time possible. So that they can be as professionals in their early age . There is an urgent need to enhance the quality of basic education in our country as seen in the education outcomes of Filipino students and the comparative disadvantage of the Philippines with regard to other countries. The following data would support this explanation: At present, the Philippines is the only country in Asia and among the three remaining countries in the world that uses a 10-year basic education cycle. According to a presentation made by the South East Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO-INNOTECH) on Additional Years in Philippine Basic Education (2010), the comparative data on duration of Basic and Pre-University Education in Asia shows that the Philippines allots 10 years not just for the basic education cycle but also for the pre-university education while all the other countries have either 11 or 12 years in their basic education cycle. Achievement scores highlight our students’ poor performance in national examinations. The National Achievement Test (NAT) results for grade 6 in SY 2009-2010 showed only a 69. 21% passing rate while the NAT results for high school is at a low 46. 38%. Moreover, international tests results in 2003 Trends in International Mathematics and Science study (TIMSS) show that the Philippines ranked 34th out of 38 countries in HS Math and 43rd out of 46 countries in HS II Science. Moreover, the Philippines ranked the lowest in 2008 even with only the science high schools joining the Advanced Mathematics category. Assumptions The K to 12 Program covers Kindergarten and 12 years of basic education (six years of primary education, four years of Junior High School, and two years of Senior High School [SHS]) to provide sufficient time for mastery of concepts and skills, develop lifelong learners, and prepare graduates for tertiary education, middle-level skills development, employment, and entrepreneurship. -DEPED K 12 can contribute to: Strengthening early childhood education Making curriculum relevant to learners Ensuring integrated and seamless learning Building proficiency through language Nurturing the holistically Filipino Kindergarten and 12 years of basic education is offered for free in public schools. There are additional indirect costs, but government agencies are collaborating to provide programs that will enable everyone access to quality education, especially to those with lesser means. Proposals such as the expansion of the Education Service Contracting (ESC) scheme under the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) and other cost-sharing arrangements are being developed by DepEd. K to 12 graduates should have higher earning potential as they will be more competent and skilled. As a result of the K to 12 Program, particularly the more specialized education in Senior High School, CHED is exploring the possibility of decreasing the number of years of which will enable them to have more employment opportunities. Certain degree programs in college. K to 12 graduates can obtain national certification from TESDA, After finishing Grade 10, a student can obtain Certificates of Competency (COC) or a National Certificate Level I (NC I). After finishing a Technical-Vocational-Livelihood track in Grade 12, a student may obtain a National Certificate Level II (NC II), provided he/she passes the competency-based assessment of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). NC I and NC II improves employability of graduates in fields like Agriculture, Electronics, and Trade. After going through Kindergarten, the enhanced Elementary and Junior High curriculum, and a specialized Senior High program, every K to 12 graduates will be ready to go into different paths – may it be further education, employment, or entrepreneurship. Every graduate will be equipped with: Information, media and technology skills, Learning and innovation skills, Effective communication skills, and Life and career skills. MANILA, Philippines – Last May 15, President Benigno Aquino III signed the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 into law. Philippines is the last country in Asia to approved k 12. The implementation of the Universal Kindergarten began in SY 2011–2012. The enhanced curriculum for Grade 1 and Grade 7 (1st Year Junior High School) was rolled out in SY 2012–2013, and will be progressively introduced in the other grade levels in succeeding school years. Grade 11 will be introduced in SY 2016–2017 and Grade 12 in SY 2017–2018. The ? rst batch of high school students to go through K to 12 will graduate in March 2018. K to 12 graduates will be ready to be employed in various industries. Education Secretary Armin Luistro earlier said that the K to 12 program would like to ensure that even if they dont choose to go to college, they finish studying what is basic. As per Republic Act no. 10157 or the Kindergarten Education Act, Kindergarten has become part of the education system and a pre-requisite for admission to Grade 1. Public schools will continue to admit children who have not taken Kindergarten into Grade 1 until SY 2013-2014. Senior high school students can choose from 3 tracks: Academic, Sports and Arts, and Technical-Vocational-Livelihood. After Grade 10, a student can obtain Certi? cates of Competency (COC) or a National Certi? cate Level I (NC I). After finishing a Technical Vocational-Livelihood in Grade 12, a student may obtain a National Certi? cate Level II (NC II), provided he/she passes the competency-based assessment of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). NC I and NC II improves employability of graduates in ? elds like Agriculture, Electronics, and Trade. In Kinder, mother tongue, shall be used as the medium of instruction. In Grades 1-3, the mother tongue will be used in teaching all subjects, except in teaching Filipino and English subjects. Starting Grade 4, Filipino and English will become the languages for instruction. Starting SY 2016-2017, DepEd shall engage in partnerships with colleges, universities, and Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVI) to use their existing facilities and teaching staff to ensure that reduction in enrollment in these colleges and universities will be offset during the transition period. Private schools are to adhere to the minimum standards of the K to 12 curriculum. They should also follow the K to 12 progression, even if they choose not to offer grades 11-12 (e. g. private junior high schools can remain as such but their students will have to transfer for senior high school). Recommendations In the light findings of the study and the conclusion drawn, the following recommendations are given: K to 12 will be more embraced by the parents of the students if the government will make new ways of helping the parents of the student to make their children’s finish the k to 12 program Most of the student who will undergo k-12 program belongs to a family that has a minimum wage income. And majority of the respondents are 11-12 years old. Based on my study , we can say that k to 12 program will affect the student learning’s and will add training for them to used if they will wanted to work as early in their age. It can be said for the findings that k to 12 will help the youth to be young professionals in the hospitality industry were in job opportunities are more open to them because of the training that they will take in this program. On the findings there for include that the k to 12 has many effects on the students that will undergo the program and they will have capabilities of having work in the hospitality industry but in the study it shows that it also decreased their parents capabilities to support their studies. Decision criteria Future education status Family salary income how do you asses k to 12 program as a student to take the k to 12 program: Quality of the education Effects on the student learning Its effect on the parents capabilities on supporting their Childs education How will it affect the numbers of the students who will continue their studies to attain their degree in college? What is the perception of the students regards to: the k to 12 program the new ways of learning readiness for them to work in a establishment If the TESDA training accreditation will make them more professionals especially on the hospitality industry. Subject – this research concerns with the analysis of the case of k to 12 program in the Philippines that had been implied last 2012 and if can create new hospitality professionals. Respondents – the respondents of the study are the students of San Antonio National high school that has already taking the new curriculum k to 12. Instrumentation – the author used the following instrument to gather important data . Questionnaires are carefully prepared to answer the specific problems of the study. Observation – as means of gathering information for the research may define as perceiving data through the senses. Observation is most widely used in studying behavior. This will be used to determine the actual reaction of the students while the Questionnaire given to them. Setting – the author will focus their studies on the point of view of students in San Antonio national high school in san Antonio village Makati city. Justification Student that will take k to 12 program can acquired the following: †¢ Acquire mastery of basic competencies. †¢ Be more emotionally mature. †¢ Be socially aware , pro-active, involve in public and civic affairs. †¢ Be adequately prepared for the word of work or Entrepreneurship or higher education. †¢ Be legally employable with potential for better earnings. †¢ Be globally competitive. †¢ Every graduate of the Enhanced K to 12 Basic Education program is an empowered individual who has learned, through a program that is rooted on sound educational principles and geared towards excellence, the foundations for learning throughout life, the competence to engage in work and be productive, the ability to coexist in fruitful harmony with local and global communities, the capability to engage in autonomous critical thinking, and the capacity to transform others and oneself. Agriculture and Fisheries, Sports, Business and Entrepreneurship Why add two more years? Decongest and enhance the basic education curriculum. Better quality education for all. Philippines is the only remaining country in Asia with a 10-year basic education program. K to12 is not new. The proposal to expand the basic education dates back to 1925. Studies in the Philippines have shown that an additional year of schooling increases earnings by 7. 5%.. Studies validate that improvements in the quality of education will increase GDP growth by 2% to 2. 2% Minus 2 instead of plus 2 for those families who cannot afford a college education but still wish to have their children find a good paying job. Right now, parents spend for at least 4 years of college to have unemployable child. In our model, parents will not pay for 2 years of basic Education that will give them an employable child. In effect, we are saving parents 2 years of expenses. The plan is not â€Å"Plus 2 years before graduation† but â€Å"Minus 2 years before work Inspire a shift in attitude that completion of high school education is more than just preparation for college but can be sufficient for a gainful employment or career. What will the society gain from K to 12? K to 12 will facilitate an accelerated economic growth. K to 12 will facilitate mutual recognition of Filipino graduates and professionals in other countries. A better educated society provides a sound foundation for long-term socio-economic development. Several studies have shown that the improvements in the quality of education will increase GDP growth by as much as 2%. Studies in the UK, India and US show that additional years of schooling also have positive overall impact on society. What Benefits will Individuals and Families get? An enhanced curriculum will decongest academic workload. Graduates will possess competencies and skills relevant to the job market. Graduates will be prepared for higher education. Graduates will be able to earn higher wages and/or better prepared to start their own business. Graduates could now be recognized abroad. MANILA, Philippines—Adding two years to the present 10-year basic education cycle is â€Å"an absolutely essential reform† to put the country’s public education system at par with the rest of the world, an international education expert said on Wednesday. Sheldon Shaeffer, director at the Bureau of Education of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) Asia Pacific, said the K+12 program (Kindergarten plus 12 years) was a necessary reform â€Å"to make the system comparable to and competitive with other countries. † Speaking at a lecture on school leadership at the Department of Education (DepEd), Shaeffer said a 12-year education cycle would be â€Å"more useful to the personal needs and employment opportunities† of its graduates. â€Å"I actually don’t see how people can disagree with it,† said Shaeffer before an audience of top Philippine education officials and representatives from various schools. The flagship education program of the Aquino administration, the K+12 basic education reform plan aims to improve the quality of Filipino high school graduates by adding two years of senior high school to the current 10-year education curriculum. The two additional years in senior high school are envisioned to serve as a specialization period for high school students, whether in vocational skills, music, the arts or sports. This would give high school graduates the option to pursue jobs with a basic education diploma or proceed to college. The program aims to make Philippine education at par with the rest of the world, with 12 years of basic schooling already a global standard. According to the DepEd, only the Philippines, Angola and Djibouti have a 10-year basis schooling cycle. Officials said the two-year shortcoming had proven problematic in the accreditation of Philippine graduates when applying for postgraduate courses and employment overseas. Recently, Laos added a year to its 11-year-program, Shaeffer noted. Education Secretary Armin Luistro acknowledged that the transition to a 12-year system would be difficult but noted that the Philippines was â€Å"already delayed† in coming up to the global standard. â€Å"What we’re looking at now is how to implement it. In [implementing] any change, there will be difficulty and this is what we really have to work on toge

Education in South Africa: Mathematic and Scientific Performance

Education in South Africa: Mathematic and Scientific Performance This study is aimed at discovering the root cause and economic consequence of poor performance in Maths and Science in South Africa. The main objective of the research is to provide the South African Department of Education and the heads of governing bodies of school with information that will assist in the proper formulation of strategies drafted in the Action Plan, the execution of policies that address the root cause of poor Maths and Science performance in South African schools. The secondary objective is to emphasize the economic consequences that may arise as a result of the poor performance in Maths and Science and lastly to generate possible leads and ideas which can be used to formulate a realistic and testable hypothesis for future researchers. The research was carefully constructed and designed using the qualitative methodology, since the scope of the subject is too complex to be addressed by a yes or no hypothesis. The research process comprised of two phases. The first phase consisted of questionnaires distributed to 10 professionals in the field of Maths and Science who passed Maths and Science at Matric/Grade 12 level; and the second phase 10 questionnaires distributed to Non-professionals in the field of Maths and Science who did not pass or complete Maths and/or science at a Matric/Grade 12 level, The third phase consisted of 5 questionnaires to educational specialists, economists and experts in the Maths and Science career stream. Four interrelated key performance index constructs within the Education system were used, namely Teacher practice, Student achievement, Government and Curriculum content. The results of the research found that the core issues in relations to poor performance in Maths and Science was due to (To be continued).. The economic consequences as a result of the poor education system showed that (To be continued) Keywords: root cause, poor performance, Maths and Science, economic consequences Physics, chemistry and mathematics form the basis for many Scientific or technological applications and discoveries, and as innovation and technological advancement are the driving force behind todays globally competitive economy, it makes good career sense to gain the versatile skills an enabling science degree will award you. Professor Bruce Milthorpe CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE RESEARCH PROBLEM Introduction Maths and Science is a driving force of a strong performing economy, it is a key area of knowledge whose competency is necessary for individual and economic development and an important factor of global competitiveness especially in a world of rapid technological changes (Tatira, Mutambara Chagwiza, 2012). McGrath and Akoojee (2007) further adds that the rationale in focusing on education is that its crucial for competitiveness, they emphasize that education should be a core objective in the South African national development strategy to enable competitiveness in globalisation and the knowledge economy. The twentieth century has seen education rise above the ranks as a base for social economic development and as a prime influential factor of a countries level of wealth by being able to alleviate poverty, increase the workforce and stimulate intellectual flexibility among its societies (Ozturk, 2001). The research seeks to act as a point of reference or set a standard for the Department of education and the heads of governing bodies whose role is primarily the execution of policies and strategic action planning within the education system, specifically in the Maths and Science arena. Whilst Human capital investment within a country draws in different skills which are highly valuable due to the impact it has on the vital parts of everyday life, skills in Maths and Science are the most crucial for social and economic welfare, typical examples include important career streams in the life sciences, behavioural and social sciences, earth and environmental sciences, math and computer sciences, engineering, interdisciplinary and physical sciences (Ozturk, 2001). Education aspires nation building and promotes interpersonal tolerance due to its integration nature hence Societies are able to transcend beyond cultural and national boundaries due to the advantages and assurances that education brings, especially Maths and science (Romagnolo Anderson, 2010). 1.2 Background to the study 1.2.1 The State of Maths and Science in South Africa In Sub-Saharan Africa about 1% of GNP is spent on Science, technology and development, this amount is comparatively low, compared to developed countries (Govender and Gruzd, 2011). Although South Africas expenditure on education and training is more than most developed countries especially in the last 4 decades. The result show a growth of 48 million in embedded human capital in 1960 to 230 million in 1996 (Measured in completed school cycle), the downfall is the quality of the education (Simkins, 2002). The issues lies in strategies in terms of budget spending efficiency, the struggle to draw the interest of foreign direct investment and to preserve the most favourably experienced Africans in Maths and Science (Govender and Gruzd, 2011). Consequently the short supply of high-level skills is extensively confining the ability to develop the economy (Simkins et al, 2009). South Africa however is at an alarming state with the worst performance in both Maths and Science as released in an international study coordinated and released by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) on 24 November 1996. The study was conducted by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) assessment on Trends in International Maths and Science Study (TIMMS, 2003). The president of the HSRC, Dr Rolf Stumpf commented at the release of the assessment results These alarming results show that merely tinkering with the symptoms without addressing the root causes of our poor performance in mathematics and science will be a waste of time and money (HSRC, 2004). South Africa ranked 45th out of a total of 45 countries surveyed, in terms of Grade 8 Maths and Science assessment. The study highlights South Africas country average at 244 for Science and 264 for Maths compared to the international average of 467 for Maths and 474 for Science at the eighth grade level. The results unveil a substantial variation in Maths achievement between the highest and lowest performing countries, from an average of 605 for Singapore to 264 for South Africa in the mathematics assessment. The problem starts at primary level with approximately 75% of the poorly performing school system experiencing poor arithmetic ability from their learners and consequently further mathematical education becoming incomprehensible. South Africa is therefore confronted with a massive challenge to address the numeracy failure, unless it will not accomplish the system-wide and prolonged improvement in the Maths and Science education reform, in terms of remedying the poor performance symptoms (Rule Bernstein, 2009). There is an increasing need to excel in Maths and Science education, as it is the doorway towards building a developed country and to achieve that requires a scientific and technological advancement that will facilitate growth and development of the economy, this is necessary especially to face the fierce global economic competition (Mji Makgato, 2006; Dimmock, 2011). Commenting before the release of the assessment results, the executive director of the assessment technology and education evaluation research programme in the HSRC, Dr Anil Kanjee stated that This is especially relevant for mathematics and science education in South Africa, an area that the nation has recognized is in need of significant improvement if we are to participate and excel in the global economy (TIMSS SA, 2003). Problem Statement In light of the persistent national crisis in Maths and Science education and the role that Maths and Science plays in citizenship empowerment. It is necessary to understand the intimate relationship between unemployment, inequality, poverty and the role that Maths and Science education plays in dealing with the factors in South Africa. South Africa is amongst the worst in the world in terms of inequality, with a Gini-coefficient in the range of 0.58 0.68. Between 18-24 million of the South African population is in poverty and about 36.7% is unemployed including those who are not actively looking for employment. (McGrath Akoojee, 2007). The government plans to eradicate poverty through creating 5 million jobs through the new growth path by 2020 by redressing the inequality through deliberate affirmative action and practices. The education system is a key element of the new growth path. It plays a vital role in the transfer and development of skills and technology. In terms of Maths and Science, the new growth framework seeks to strengthen procedures to guarantee better and more reasonable admission to science and Maths education at secondary level (Patel, 2010). Purpose Statement The subject of Education, especially Maths and Science has been at the helm of many discussions in South Africa and globally, especially with about 90% of our schools failing to meet the minimum performance standards in Maths and Science. In spite of the above, theres currently insufficient data on the root cause of poor performance in Maths and Science although South Africa is facing a national predicament and this poor performance is actually congesting system-wide remedies (Simkins, 2010). The role of this research is to close the gap in the exploratory literature of Maths and Science by introducing practical data in the root cause and consequences of poor performance in Maths and Science by South African schools. The research exclusively deals with poor performing schools in South African Primary and Secondary schools both in the public and private sector. Primary goal of the study This studys fundamental purpose is to determine the root cause of poor performance in the area of Maths and Science in South Africa. The aim of the primary goal is in the exploration of the central phenomenon (Creswell, 2008). Achieving the secondary objectives normally implies the recognition of the primary objective (Struwig Stead, 2001). The aim of the secondary objectives is to explore the complex set of factors surrounding the central phenomenon (Creswell, 2008). Hence listed below are the formulated secondary objectives. Secondary goals of the study To explore the economic consequences produced by the poor performance in respect of Maths and Science in South African schools. To identify the success determinants of the economies with high Maths and Science performance The above represent the preliminary goals of the research but as the research proceeds the objectives may shift as the findings surface (Struwig Stead, 2001). Research Questions The research is planned to concentrate on the following crucial questions: Research question 1: What is the leading, underlying issue which leads to the poor performance in terms of Maths and Science? Research question 2: What are the economic impact as a result of poor performance in Maths and Science? Research question 3: What role should the South African government play to remedy the root cause of the poor performance in Maths and Science? Layout of chapters The research report consists of seven chapters as follows: Chapter 1: Introduction A comprehensible indication of what the study concerns is highlighted and the goal of the study is discussed to shed light to the topic. The overview of the research problem, purpose statement, primary and secondary goal and the research questions channeling the study. The following issues are addressed: the role that education plays in the economic development of the country, the state of Maths and Science in South Africa, Cleary highlighting the Maths and Science sectors performance. Chapter 2: Literature review An argument that supports the study is presented using relevant, current literature review. The statement of the research problem is refined and an argument is built using the literature. The chapter shows and looks at literature on the topic of Maths and Science, the economical impact associated with poor performance in Maths and Science and the various types of remedies available for a developing economy. Chapter 3: Research Questions The purpose of the research is defined through research questions, since the research is under-researched. This chapter builds up to the point that the following chapters will provide practical evidence to explore the dimension. Chapter 4: Research methodology This chapter highlights the method of data collection that will be used. It highlights the unit of analysis, the population, the sample size and sampling method, the research instrument, outlining clearly how the data was collected and the process adopted. The limitations to the study and the ethical considerations are outlined. Chapter 5: Results The results are presented in this chapter especially focusing on the qualitative approach; the results of the root cause and the economic consequence are presented in a form of figures and tables. Chapter 6: Discussion of results The results in chapter 5 are presented with a link to the research question, the research questions are presented as the major headings. An in-depth analysis of the result is conducted, clearly linking to the literature review and confirming that the research objective is met. Chapter 7: Conclusion This chapter summarizes the findings into an organized format, ending with recommendations to the stakeholders and future research. CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1. Introduction The objective of this literature review in accordance to the research problems is to further describe the problem. The literature review contextualizes research conducted locally and globally. Relevant publications, journals, reports and academic books were reviewed in order to collect data and discussions on the proposed research, mostly to determine if research of a same nature was not conducted in prior years. The theory reviewed in this section is categorized into three sections: poor performance in Maths and Science, economic impact and success determinants. The first part provides a general perspective on Maths and Science poor performance looking at the variables underpinning the subsystems in terms of teacher practice, student achievement, curricular content and state of the government (Reddy, Kanjee Diedericks, 2007). The second part is an overview of economic impact with particular reference to Maths and Science, looking at the economy of South Africa, China and Brazil. Thirdly the success determinants are discussed looking at the important influences in Maths and Science achievement and the respective predictors. There is a need for specific insight in the factors that determine the success of Maths and Science as this builds on to the solution of the root cause. 2.2. Poor performance in Maths and Science A large number of studies seem to gravitate towards the problem of Maths and Science education in South Africa as illustrated by the poor performance of matriculants who failed to meet the admission requirements of Maths and Science faculties (Mabila et al, 2006). The problem of poor performance in Maths is one of the most paramount fears of teachers and other Maths educators globally. Allegations point to the fact that poor performance capitulate negative behaviour and even trepidation of Maths by pupils (Wadesango Dhliwayo, 2012). South Africa had a very low minimum pass rates requirement for Maths and Science at 29% and 30% respectively in 2010 but learners are not motivated to study Maths and Science as theyve observed the failure of others (Mji Makgato, 2006). Maths and Science were mostly disguised as subjects not for the weak and so this becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy that Maths is a subject for those with greater intellectual ability. The author further adds that the education system methodology of measuring grade passes vs. the provision of educational quality is at the core of the Maths and Science learner fear complicacy. Mabila et al. (2009) argued that there were several factors that contributed to this phenomenon of poor performance, namely lack of regulation, inadequate resources, poor drive in students and teachers, implementation of policies and lack of parental involvement. Govender Gruzd (2011) added that Maths and Science has a potential of unlocking the continents economic and developmental decline but education in Africa required remarkable development; the authors cited that education was disregarded and was not in the focal point of Africas expansion plan, the author further noted the factors responsible for poor performance in Africa such as lack of qualified teachers, proper infrastructure, learning equipment and enrolment into the Maths and Science subjects bears fruit to the need for development. Bradbury Miller (2011) differ in their argument in that the unequal schooling system produced various drawbacks that necessitated restoration but agreed on the factors such as lack of quali fied teachers as part of the inequality amongst the others which they express as a lack of excess to successive education levels. It is clear from the evidence that Maths and Science education failure is caused by various factors and that poor performance is characterized by inequities, scarce resource and strategy. 2.2.1 Teaching Practice South Africa is reported to be the leading technological giant in Africa but in terms of Maths and Science it fell below its economic opponent Indonesia, Chile and Malaysia. The reason for this lag was due to the lack of Maths and Science graduates who can propel progress forward in terms of knowledge sharing in the space of Maths and Science. The central part of this national dilemma is due to the minimal levels of Maths and Science education in classrooms across Africa (Govender Gruzd, 2011). The Department of Education in South Africa changed the curriculum to enforce Maths into the curricular by adding Maths literacy into the equation as an alternative to Maths; this was done in order to increase Maths participation to a 100%. Although this was an outstanding government initiative, it added a need for more Maths and Science teachers. Govender Gruzd (2011) indicated that Africa needed atleast 3 million more teachers to cope with the growing enrolments. Simkins et al (2009) qualified the statement by illustrating that South Africa was experiencing the same predicament with an escalating burden of more Maths classes and therefore teachers, this was due to the initiative to enforce Maths learning. This was further aggravated by the shortage of properly qualified and skilled Maths and Science teachers. The issue lies in the education departments failing to recruit talented and bright Maths and Science graduates who understand and could teach Maths and Science, these crucial skills could not be attracted into the system due to the lack of incentives and low pay. Govender Gruzd (2011) revealed shocking statistics in terms of educators in South Africa, which stated that up to 60% of the educators, had not been trained in Maths and Science, part of the main reason is that government was failing to translate their commitment to education into budgetary allocations. Education policies are drafted but the commitment lacks i.e. the scrapping of teacher colleges, inefficiency in training teachers and outdated teacher practices resulted in untrained teachers who struggled with the topics and hence imparted knowledge with a lack of foundation in content knowledge and imagination. This has created a poor foundation for the future development of Maths and Science graduates (Govender Gruzd, 2011). (Mji Makgato, 2006) said that Maths and Science are practical subjects and the teaching adopted in classes does not continually suggest practice, in the teaching of Maths and Science problems such as poor time management and incomplete syllabuses as a result of no school learning plan, continued to affect the practical method of teaching. 2.2.2 Student achievement Firstly in order to measure and gain understanding of the variances in student learning, there is a need for suitable and correct Maths and Science assessment tools. South Africas inability to participate in most Maths and Science assessments shows the countries inability to recognize the state of the problem or even a need to know how they fare in the global context so as to improve the performance of its student (Venkat, Adler, Rolinick, Setati Vhurumuku, 2011). According to Taylor (2010) the overall level of achievement amongst South African children is extremely low; this is not shocking as there are two educational systems in South Africa. The first covers 80-85% of the learners who experience the historically disadvantaged system with traits of low proficiency in reading, writing and numeracy, the second system covers the 15-20% of the students from the affluent groups who achieve world class results. The first system is further aggravated by poor school management, due to lack of resources such as textbooks, study materials and proper school facilities. Teachers who were qualified and experienced tended to flock towards the more urban and developed provinces to teach in schools with proper school management (Taylor Derekyu, 2009), hence the situation in the first system is further disadvantaged by inadequate experienced teachers who lack the proper resources or support to elevate their skills. The majorities of the graduates who obtained university entrance were produced in the second system and further enjoyed a social mobility and performance advantage. Taylor (2010) further indicated that the socio economic status was still the core indicator of student achievement as supported by the results in performance in the different school systems. The author noted the following results as conducted in a national socio-economic status, Schools which did not perform satisfactorily had not completed their curriculum coverage which in turn affected the learning capability of the students but this could be due to the learning shortfall from prior years which in turn slows the curriculum coverage. Math and Science teachers were tested in a simple maths test and the deficient teachers scored 40% or less, those with higher marks produced students who performed better in Maths and Science, these results showed the importance of teacher knowledge and experience to the student achievement. Taylor (2010) noted that the more materials were available as well the better the student performed, which concludes the point that schools which are properly managed produces better student achievement. 2.2.3 Curriculum content Although the change in curriculum by the Department of Education (2008) was an excellent initiative in terms of rendering Maths education non-negotiable, adding Maths Literacy as a mathematical wing has caused a nationwide debate The question is what is meant by mathematics in the concept of Maths literacy and the use of the word Literacy in conjunction with Maths (Vithal Bishop, 2011). Looking at the factors that contributed to the poor performance in Maths and Science, the question that arose in regards to Maths literacy was whether Maths literacy was going to contribute to the knowledge required in a Maths economy or will this addition exert pressure on the system and subsequently on to the poor performance? Table 1 below illustrates the design of the competencies that the Department of Education aimed for with the Maths, Maths Literacy and Science Curricula. According to Simkins et al (2009) the alteration of the curriculum has added up to 60% to the mathematical instructional problem since Maths or Maths literacy have become compulsory with the new National Senior Certificate changes. The CDE noted that the introduction of Maths literacy has actually resulted in students, who would have qualified to study Maths with a successive pass enroll for Maths literacy instead. This means that South Africa is losing out in terms of potential Maths graduates into the Maths and Science system (Simkins et al., 2009). 2.2.3.1 The language issue According to the findings by Wildsmith-Cromarty Gordon (2009) dialect differences cause uncertainty in terms of what the terms mean and adds difficulty in comprehension, teachers preferred to have a standardized book in the language of instruction for Maths and Science and as well in the home language for ease of reference. Probyn (2009) stated in his finding that when home language was used in class, it increased the level of class participation. The author argues that the student need to cross borders in order to understand the information within the curriculum as the wording is written as if the reader is of the mother tongue, he further adds that learning in a second language infringes on the value system of the student. Probyn (2009) argued that the issue is that learners past experiences are entrenched in their cultural and traditional beliefs, norms and values. MATHS This curriculum is designed for those who intend to follow a career path requiring Maths, or those who are interested in the subject. The competencies aimed for include: 1. Mathematical process skills, such as making conjectures, proving assertions, and modeling situations; 2. Confident calculation, with and without calculators; 3. Manipulation of algebraic expressions; 4. Financial calculations; patterns and transformation of functions; 5. Two- and three-dimensional geometry and trigonometry; 6. Basic statistics and probability; 7. Differential calculus; sequences and series; 8. Solution of unseen mathematical problems; 9. Historical development of Maths in various cultures; 10. and use of technology in calculations, and the development of models. MATHS LITERACY Maths literacy is driven by the life-related applications of Maths. It enables learners to develop the ability and confidence to think numerically and spatially in order to interpret and critically analyse everyday situations, and solve problems. The competencies aimed for include: use of numbers to solve real-life problems; modelling of situations using suitable functions and graphic representation; description, representation, and analysis of shape in two and three dimensions using geometrical skills; critical engagement with the handling of data (statistics and probability), especially the manner in which these are encountered in the media; and use of technology in calculations. PHYSICAL SCIENCE Maths introduces a more extensive range of mathematical techniques, whereas Maths literacy Starts with real-life situations and develops a more limited range of techniques to deal with them. Physical science is divided into six core knowledge areas: 1. Matter and materials (integrated); 2. Systems (chemistry); 3. Change (chemistry); 4. Mechanics (Physics); 5. Waves, sound and light (physics) and electricity and magnetism (physics) Source: Simkins et al (2007. p.36) 2.2.4 State of government Dimmock (2011) undertook research in schooling policies, the author explored the development and investigated the consequence of the policies from the changing context of the central government in terms of school relationship. The author compared the policies of two contrasting countries, which had the best performing schools in terms of international assessments, Dimmock (2011) notes that the two policies are more different than similar in the context of cultural values, politics and economic situations influences but the results are satisfactory in the global context despite the differences. In relation to the study by Dimmock (2011) it is possible to establish that governmental intervention besides the context of the country can produce results which are adequate, as long as they adopt policies which incorporate the countrys culture, politics, and economical standing. South Africas involvement in terms of school relationship is questionable beyond the budgetary relationship where South Africa spent more than any other developing country in Africa yet 80% of the overall government spending was on personnel (Taylor, 2010). In a system where teachers are underpaid, the 80% is not justifiable. Simply there has been a lack of targeted investments in innovative solutions and a strong political commitment over a long period of time to change the social compositions of schools which is more important than school spending in educational achievement (Taylor Derekyu, 2009). Education increases productivity and the overall labour market, it develops the ability to innovate and aids in the transmission of critical knowledge for the development of the country. The South African government requires this productivity, labour market and innovation in order to further transform the social compositions of schools, hence without the investment in the school relationships, the government will still lack the resources to innovate (Taylor Derekyu, 2009). 2.3 Economic impact 2.3.1 South African economy 2.3.2 China 2.3.3 Brazil 2.4 Success determinants Ndlovu (2011 as cited by Gipps, 1993:40) stated that in terms of Maths and Science education for social justice it should be structured in a way that the teacher is trained to be capable of creating learners who are able to analyze situations, conceptualize and justify critical decisions and so forth. Chipaike (2012) further stated that science formed part of the social environment and connected issues of social development; the author noted that science is not merely about manipulation of equipment and laboratory experimentation. It is about education for social development. Social development is laden not only with concepts but also skills and values such as the development of human potential, moral, cultural and gender sensitivity, participatory democracy, collaboration, unity and peace (Chipaike, 2012). Ndlovu (2011) commented that without Maths and Science, inequality in terms of opportunities and social isolation are exacerbated as Maths and Science enforces citizenship empower ment. Hickling-Hudson (2004) stated that in Cuba which has a dedicated programme to develop teachers in Maths and Science education and has outperformed all the other Latin countries, the teachers have atleast a 5 year university degree, Master or PhD level, foreign exposure in terms of expertise and also receive consistent training. Dimmock (2011) argued that a school policy which has a designated segregation of talent is more likely to achieve excellence, in Singapore they have a specialist school in science and technology, which is endorsed by the government and allocated the cream of the crop in resources. CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH QUESTIONS 3.1 Introduction Education in South Africa specifically in Maths and Science has an underlying deep failure rate due to reasons lin

Sanfoins Future in Wyoming :: Sanfoin Wyoming Farming Environment Essays

Sanfoin's Future in Wyoming Sainfoin, Onobrychis viciifolia is a perennial forage legume that is native to Mediterranean regions around the Black and Caspain Seas and north into Russia. Sainfoin leaves are oddly pinnate with 13-21 leaflets per leaf and produce an erect flower pink to rose in color. Sainfoin has been introduced into many other countries including Iran, Turkey, Greece, Yugoslavia, Italy, Bulgaria, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Soviet Union, Poland, Norway and the United Kingdom. It is known that sainfoin has been grown in Europe for the past 450 years. New varieties of sainfoin such as ‘Eski’, ‘Remont’, ‘Renumex’, ‘Melrose’, and ‘Nova’ have been developed and introduced into the United States and Canada starting in the 1950s. (Gray, 2004, p. 2) Sainfoin is a non-bloating legume that has nitrogen fixation capabilities and can be used in a forage mixture. Sainfoin also is extremely palatable and nutritious for all classes of livestock and wildlife. Livestock actually prefer sainfoin even when other plants species are readily available. Other uses include wildlife habitat restoration, wildlife food plots or as a legume component in the conservation reserve program (CRP). Sainfoin is often compared to alfalfa based on its nitrogen fixation, forage capabilities, and nutritional value. The main advantages of sainfoin are the earlier maturation rate, non-bloating qualities, resistance to the alfalfa weevil and higher digestible nutrients when compared to alfalfa. Another important advantage over alfalfa is that sainfoin is resistant to the root rot phase. The earlier maturation allows for earlier spring forage for grazing and hay cutting which is beneficial to livestock operations (Gray, 2004, p. 2). Sainfoin is primarily used as a hay or pasture crop and has many characteristics beneficial to farming and ranching operations in the western states such as Wyoming, North and South Dakota, Montana and New Mexico where annual precipitation in generally low. Sainfoin is very drought resistant and does better in cold soils than alfalfa (Stannard, M). It is also shown that sainfoin thrives in soils with a pH 7.0 to 8.0 that are too dry for clover and alfalfa. Sainfoin is longer lived in dryland applications opposed to irrigated land but generally needs re-seeding every five to six years. Another interesting positive side-affect about sainfoin is the relationship it shares with honey and leaf cutting bees. The large pink flower attracts these insects and on top of producing large amounts of high quality honey, the sainfoin showed increased seed production when the bees were present.

Shakespeares Much Ado About Nothing and Renaissance Italy Essay

Shakespeare's play "Much Ado About Nothing" takes place in Messina, a city-state of Renaissance Italy. The Renaissance was a period in European history believed to have been between AD 1300 and AD 1600 with a feudal society of agricultural economy and church dominated culture. It was during the Renaissance that Europe was transformed into a society dominated by central political institutions with education, arts and music heavily influenced by the Christian religion. In Italy, cities such as Florence, Ferrara, Milan, and Venice flourished. These cities were able to finance cultural achievements. Medieval Italian merchants developed commercial and financial techniques such as bookkeeping and bills of exchange. Italian city-states were transformed from communes into territorial states, each of which wanted to expand at the expense of others. Diplomacy was established when the Italian city-states began embassies in foreign courts. In general, the Italian Renaissance was a time of flo urishing ideas and prosperity. "Much Ado About Nothing" is a play intertwining two love stories. One story follows the romance of a young woman Hero (daughter of Leonato, governor of Messina) and a young officer Claudio. When Claudio returns from war, he realizes he's deeply in love with Hero. With the help of his commander, Don Pedro, Claudio proposes to her. The other is a less likely couple, Beatrice (Hero's cousin) and Bene*censored* (another officer). Both being witty, strong-willed and outspoken, the two seem to bare distaste for each other. However, when their friends arrange for them to overhear conversations revealing how much each is loved by the other, it doesn't take long before they declare their love for one another. Meanwhile, self... ...ce of Aragon, Don Pedro. The political systems are also shown by the fact Don John was denied claim to his family's wealth because he was born outside of marriage. Secondly, I learned about household positions in Renaissance Italy. As displayed by the play, a noble household was headed by a man (Leonato) with daughters waiting to be courted (Hero/Beatrice), and maidservants (Margaret/Ursula). A third lesson was in medieval courtship. In those times, the girls were to be wooed and events such as the dance in "Much Ado About Nothing" were thrown to do so. When a man wished to marry her, he would ask her father for permission, just as Claudio does for Hero. In conclusion, Shakespeare's play "Much Ado about Nothing" intertwines two love stories in Renaissance Italy. Through its characters, it portrays the political and household lifestyles of the Renaissance times.