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Saturday, August 31, 2019

How the English language influenced African literature Essay

The use of the English language plays a crucial and dominant role in African literature. In contemporary African literature the use of English is often the key element for success as an African writer. This enables them to express their views across a larger area of today’s global world. However writing in English instead of their native tongues may come at a high price for these African writers. By them replacing their native languages with English could eventually lead to the eradication of their native tongues. The aim of this essay is to address the following key elements which influence the role of English in African literature. Colonization played a leading role in placing English at the forefront of African literature. English can be viewed as a ‘necessary evil’, especially by most of those African writers who did not inherit the English language. The English language forms the core of African literature, throughout most parts of Africa. This is often evident in our everyday experiences. For example, the majority of the educational institutes in Africa, use English as a medium for engaging in learning activities. English has long been the language of politics. Furthermore, in the media and in literature, English is clearly the dominant language. In order for us to gain an understanding as to why English is the dominate language in African literature we need to address the main factor which has placed English at the centre of African literature. The effects of colonialism had the most influence over this situation. In 1884, Europe divided the African countries into separate colonies and ‘shaped’ the African nations under their colonial powers. These separate colonies were classified according to the languages of Europe, English- speaking, Portuguese-speaking and French-speaking African countries. Colonialism controlled and limited the use of African languages by imposing negative and stereotypical views upon these African languages. This is clearly stated by S.N.Dlamini.. Another interpretation of the use of the Zulu language comes from its  association with illiteracy and ignorance. This interpretation was historic, and a typical example of how British colonisation and a British education system impacted on language use. With colonialism, African languages were downgraded, and the language of the colonising country, English became the language of commerce, education and an instrument with which to measure knowledge(Dlamini:2005:16) The use of English in African literature can most definitely be viewed as a necessary evil. On the one hand, the English language plays a fundamental part in many aspects of communication. For instance, those African writers who choose to write in English can express their opinions, views, experiences and the like, across a more global scale. On the other hand, it’s a different scenario altogether for those whom have had to acquire English as their second language. Obviously, people would generally feel more comfortable writing in their home language as opposed to an additional language. Chinua Achebe wrote: â€Å"Those of us who have inherited the English language may not be in a position to appreciate the value of the inheritance. Or we may go on resenting it because it came as part of a package deal which included many other items of doubtful value and the positive atrocity of racial arrogance and prejudice which may yet set the world on fire. But let us not in rejecting evil throw out the good with it.† (Achebe;2005;31) There is no use in ignoring the fact that most literature will continue to be written in English. There are many reasons as to why it would not be feasible to banish the use of European languages in Africa, in replace of an African language. Firstly, this would affect the levels of communication within Africa and in relation with the rest of the world, as there are very few individuals in other parts of the world that understand one of the African languages. Secondly, this process would entail many expenses and complications. For  instance, the changing of educational institutions into ones with and African language as a medium for learning. ‘†¦those African writers who have chosen to write in English or French are not unpatriotic smart Alecs with an eye on the main chance-outside their own countries. They are the by-products of the same process that made the new nation states of Africa’ (Achebe;2005;31) Clearly, there are many advantages of writing in a first world language. Firstly, this would cultivate Africa to be a part of the global network of communication. For instance, this would allow African writers to express their views across a broader scale of the globe. Mazizi Kunene stated, â€Å"African literature is no literature unless it is used as a vehicle of ideas.† Furthermore, the use of a ‘universal’ language helps to destroy the barriers between different social or cultural groups by creating the link of communication. Secondly, with the ability to communicate, this allows these different social and cultural groups to interact, thus creating recognition for these different cultural groups. Charles Taylor creates a clear indication of the importance of recognition in his article The politics of recognition. The demand for recognition in multiculturalism is given urgency by the supposed links between recognition and identity, where this multiculturalism designates something like a persons understanding of who they are, of their fundamental defining characteristics as a human being. The thesis is that our identity is partly shaped by recognition or its absence, often by the misrecognition of others, and so a person or a group of people can suffer real damage, real distortion , if the people or society around them then mirror back to them a confining or demeaning or contemptible picture of themselves. Nonrecognition or misrecognition can inflict harm, can be a form of oppression, imprisoning someone in a false, distorted, and reduced mode of being. In other words, communication helps to facilitate the recognition of groups,  which is especially crucial for those smaller cultural groups from being oppressed and viewed as inferior, due to people’s ignorance. On the other hand, one needs to address the obstacles facing the African writer. For those who have acquired English as their second language, often feel that they are incapable of expressing themselves in the correct context when writing in English. Some feel they have to first think in their native tongue and then translate it into English and in the process their writing looses its meaning. Achebe stated in his article, ‘The English language and the African writer’ â€Å"The real question is not whether Africans could write in English but whether they ought to. Is it right that a man should abandon his mother-tongue for someone else’s? It looks like a dreadful betrayal and produces a guilty feeling. But for me there is no other choice. I have been given this language and I intend to use it.† (Achebe,C:2005:33) Firstly, in order to retain ones self identity, the sense of who you are and where you came from, one must first define themselves in relation to their language and their environment. This should be a crucial element, before adopting other languages. Ngugi wa Thiongo stated, â€Å"The choice of language and the use to which language is put is central to a peoples definition of themselves in relation to their natural and social environment, indeed in relation to the entire universe.(2005:25) Hopefully there will still be writers who choose to write in their native languages, to ensure the existence and the development of African literature. Evidently as the above evaluation states, African literature will continue to be dominated by the use of the English language. Although this is the reality to date, those Africans should not do so at the expense of abandoning their mother-tongue.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Customer service

Most of the people are having their vacation in a resort, they just want to relax and relieve their stress. Here in the Philippines, there are a lot of resorts; you have a lot of choices. Also here in Pangaea Angels City, we a lot have a lot of resort that can give you a relaxation. Hawaiian Palm Resort was built on December 08, 2012. Before it was a farmland and it has a fish pond, they decided to change into a resort because they want their parents to have a fruitful life in their remaining years in this world.They are still improving their resort, because their just in 2 years f managing the resort. Currently, the Hawaiian Palm Resort is using the manual system for their transaction in their reservation. First the guest needs to go to the Hawaiian Palm Resort to reserve some rooms or the function hall for specific events; the employee will give them a paper to fill-up some information. And with that, it's up to the guest if they are going to full their payment, but they need to ha ve a 50% down payment.If they want to cancel their reservation they cannot get the 50% down payment, for short, their no refund. The main problem in the manual system is that, if there is a lot of serration in the locale, they are lacking in the manpower, but the employee said that they can tolerate. The papers for their reservation are in the cabinet, the information is not secured and their some instances that the papers will be loss. So, the proponents proposed a website with reservation management system for the Hawaiian Palm Resort.They can attract more customers since they already have a website, and they can easily manage the reservations because it is on-line and it will lessen the manpower. Less time consuming for both employees and for the guest. II. Project Context Reservation management system is a process of booking of a room or a place for a specific occasion or vacation. By using the internet, the guest or the customer will lessen their time in going to the specific r esort just to reserve a room; it is convenient for them because it will lessen their cost In transportation and less effort.Here in the Philippines, most of the hotels and resorts are using the ARMS online, because they believe that if they do that, they can attract more customers and their profit will increased. They can easily know if their customer is satisfied to their service because there is a dieback module for the customers, the customers will just site some things that they experience in the resort. Environmental Their current situation in their reservation is that, they are still using the manual system. The effect of the proposed system is that, they will less time consuming, their data will be more secured, the manpower will be lessen.And if they want to improve the system Or the website, it's up to them; its not that hard for them to develop because they already have a current system or basis for them to get some ideas. Health and Safety For this website it is safe for customers because they will not have a hard time to go to the resort, they will just reserve online and they have less effort to pay and they can just see the appearance of the resort by just going to the website. Hassle-free for them because they will not use money, but rather using only internet.Economic Before, online reservations do not exist, people who want to reserve in the resort go directly in the place, and sometimes it's hard for them because for instances like no reserved rooms or in some instances that the resort is not available. The cost of the project is not that too much expensive, because it has long term benefits for the company. Being able for the people to know more about the resort. Social For entertainment, this website aims to entertain the people visiting. Keeping them knowing on what is the resort looks.Visualizing them to help the people to have an idea on how the resort is ore better than others. And the website will give information about the rules and d escription of the rooms, so that if they go to the resort they already know the rules and know what to do. HTH cal According to the locale, they don't have any problems regarding to the ethical issues. All their employees are honest and loyal. Keeping their loyal customer and keeping the good image Of the management. And the employees treat the customer very nicely; the employees are approachable and kind.Ill. Purpose and Description People nowadays are finding online shopping, reservation & booking, banking and other activities more comfortable on the internet rather than the conventional system. It is the best time for the Hawaiian palm Resort to make their presence online to boost their business. The purpose of online serration system of Hawaiian Palm Resort is to provide the resort with a system of reservation processing where management doesn't have to put a lot of people/employee that will handle the customers.The online system leaves it to the customers to fill the details an d information required for the reservation of the resort. The web based of the online reservation system will help the resort management to post images of the resort, enlist services and prices with discounts and other offers to attract more customers. These offers and discounts can be updated in quick time to give customers the most scent discount they can avail. IV. General Objectives The Aim of this is study is to develop a Website for Hawaiian palm Resort which will promote the Resort in the World Wide Web.A Web Site that will better promote the place and will enhance the communication between them and their market through the messages delivered through the website. The website Will have a reservation module for prospect guests; this will provide them with an idea about the cost of the rooms they want to reserve. Specific Objectives: 1 . To develop a website that will promote and advertise the Hawaiian Palm Resort and its accommodations and services by incorporating the followin g features: a. Design of the website and its content management system. B.Information about Hawaiian Palm Resort such as its location and information about its accommodation's classified by categories (pictures, prices, etc. ). C. Registration of reserved accommodations or services made online or placed real-time in the firm. D. Field for feedbacks or queries for the prospect customers (including suggestions and recommendations). 2. TO generate reports for the following: a. Record of the reservations placed online (approved, modified, completed, uncalled reservations) including the manually recorded reservations (transactions made at the resort). . Sales services, Billing and Payments (balance reports, payment reports, down payment reports, full payment). 3. To enable prospect customers to place reservations online. 4. To secure the privacy of the customers in terms of the required personal information on their transaction/s with the firm. 5. To help the management to retrieve neede d information in a fast and reliable manner. 6. To provide an audit trail that will record logs and other activities of the users in the system. 7. To archive information/records which are no longer being used. . To provide backup and restore of the database and system thus ensuring the safe keep Of the business and clients records. 9. TO provide the customers with an official receipt/form that will serve as an entry pass on the indicated date of visit, which will given to them after completing the online transaction. V. Significance of the Study The study focuses on having a proposed online website for Hawaiian palm Resort. The researchers aim to produce a website that will be access by their guests through the use of internet.This research will be benefiting the Hawaiian palm Resort, the guest and also the future researchers. Locale This system helps the locale improved their manual system and it also has a real-time, they can easily manage a lot of reservation. It also helps the locale to expand target market, leading to increased occupancy levels. It helps them to control and oversight of their bookings. Guest This system helps the guest to reserved rooms instantly without going to the resort just to check if there's an available rooms. It is also a time saving because it will lessen the time and the effort of the guest.They can be able to book anytime; from any,Inhere with internet access and they will get a quick response to their request. Future Researchers This study will help the future researchers to have some idea in the online reservation and how to create a website. This study will guide them if they are doing right or not, this study can be their basis in their study. VI. Scope and Delimitation This project focuses on the online reservation system of Hawaiian Palm Resort. It facilitates the reservation process of the resort. Being an online system it doesn't required help from anyone that the employee will lessen heir work.Any person with a basic knowledge in computer can go online and book to a resort without any hindrances This study will not cover the CRM or the customer relationship management, though it has a feedback module for the customers for them to know if the customer is satisfied. The study mainly focuses on the website itself, and to the transaction that they have in their reservation management. Using web browser is the best way to view the proposed system, you can view it in mobile but some of the module will not work and it will be more difficult for the guest to reserve.It will not also cover he billing process; the locale wants to have a manual process in their billing. The following will be the features of the website Website Home Page – it has the welcome page, photo slides of what the business is offering, basic information or an advertisement, links to other pages and to the transactions and modules of the system. Accommodations – it includes rate of About Us – It will have the co mpany or business profile, its history and other pertinent information about them which can be the staff, the management the owner Contact Us – Location Map, Business Address, E-Mail Address,Contact numbers, Fax Numbers, Other Branches (If there are any) Products and Services Offered which can be Categorized by Different Occasions, Themes or Packages with Prices Prices must be displayed but customers can be informed that price are subjected to change (so meaning there should be an back-end interface for the management to do the updates and changes) You can already include here a shopping cart that each the customer can use when making orders and reservation†¦ As products and services are added the amount will be displayed†¦When customers goes to the shopping cart ND check-out they will be prompt to login to their account if they are an existing customer and if not to register first After registering, the payment mode will be displayed, it can be thru Papal Terms and Conditions on Payments and Reservations News and Announcements – can include any post and announcements to the public or prospective clients, promos and discounts can be announced. New collections or party packages available Frequently Asked Questions -? This area Will serve as an entry for the customers to get answers from a common query or concern of customers. Customer service In today's world, we are Just about everything is more convenient and accessible due to advances of technology across almost all sectors. Technology seems more efficient and advantageous in our daily living and processing things gets more easier and improves our works and do more productive in developing of our lives. Technological advances create higher profit, fast access to information, increases communication and speed up work that gives impact to everyone and for general purpose.Information technology has it big impact in our country in many aspects such as government, education especially in business. Technology allows lessening the burden of works in companies or businesses; it eliminates error and comes with paperless. Technology also increases the business productivity of our country. And simply continue to change the business status and economic with the help of technology. A business such as salon or parlor is one of the industries that engaged to technology that helps man y people to beautify and deals with cosmetic treatment for men and women.The advances of technology affects a lot the economic of the Philippines and helps much in the production of the country's businesses, tourism and government. Having a billing system is important for keeping track of bills and payments to and from customers. Computerized billing exists to handle billing matters. Regularly using of services or programs can help you keep billing records and information up- to-date. Dilating Hair and Body Salon is a salon that is established to provide a good quality of service that is related to skin health, facial aesthetic, foot care, aromatherapy, and many other services to people.Having a salon that serves those kinds of services must also generate a good quality of billing to their customers. Dilating Hair and Body Salon use a manual billing system and do not have any computer related system. They do not have an organized file of bills and took much time for them to compute the total sales per day. They also took much time billing their customers. To help the said organization in their problems, a computer based billing system is proposed to make an organized file of bills and computed total sales lily, weekly or monthly.It will help them to make their service much efficient to their customers. II. Background of the Study Dilating Hair and Body Salon were originally come from Buenaventura. Idealist's first business name was â€Å"Dalai† from the mother of owner of the said business. And it was Just a general merchandise and a year passed they decided to have a facial clinic in the town of Boca and as the business run smoothly in the market they expand and upgrade until Dilating Hair and Body Salon were established on August 8, 2007 at San Miguel Boca, Martinique.Dilating Hair and Salon started to offer services to their customers such as regular treatment, massage, facial care, hair cuts, hair rebinding, hair relax and high end treatment. The se rvices of Dilating Hair and Salon are affordable for their customers that make their business successful and trust them for what the services they are offering to them. As they offer the services to their regular customers that keep from visiting their salon they give discounts for their trust and for making them beautiful and serving them with quality that satisfies their customer.Regular customers are discounted ranges 1 to 10%. Dilating Hair and Body Salon become one of the successful businesses in the province but use a manual billing system. This organization aims to have a good quality of service for their customer. Their objective is to serve their customer that will satisfy them and to make their customer happy. In the manual system of billing in the said organization the customer will ask or inquire to counter's desk for the service and ask how much each of service cost. The customer will only pay after the service.They are not giving invoices to their customers unless the customer asks for a receipt. However the organization does not have records of the customer bills and consume much time to compute the sales. They are literally using pens and papers for recording their bills and other reports that leads to inaccurate records of files. They are calculating it manually using a calculator that also leads to miscommunication. They keep their records and transactions manually that causes them to take much time and miscommunication. They have to check and compute if miscommunication happens.It affects them a lot especially when compiling the records and transactions of the total sales and bills. They are checking and computing it manually until miscommunication and error recordings are correct. Ill. Objectives of the Study General Objective: The general objective of the proposed project is to make a computerized billing system for Dilating Hair and Body Salon and to make a system that is user friendly for the organization. And to lessen the work about bi llings and have an organized files and reports. Specific Objectives:The following are the specific objectives of the study that will determine the deliverables. To present an accurate computation on the bill charged to the customers. To manage and secure the records on the database. To facilitate a faster transactions in billing the customers. To produce a print out on sales daily, weekly and monthly. To provide a convenient billing process. To develop a system that will help to make easier, faster and accurate billing process and to provide quality of service in terms of billing. To make the customers worry- free for their bills. IV. Scope and LimitationThe proposed system will have a customer's interface which primary purpose is to show the customer's bills to pay or the price of the service the customer want to by entering the code of the product by the cashier. The management's interface will have the log in which will provide the security of the billing system. Its primary purp ose is to allow the management to manage their services/prices and for the daily and weekly/monthly and reports in the database of the system. The cashier will have an interface that consists of prices and services and responsible for billing the customers.The customer with discount will have another interface which will contain the client's ID which will provide by the management and the customers primary information. The proposed system can update, delete, edit, record and add the product/service and prices. And print reports and invoices. The proposed system will generate daily sales report, billing report and monthly customer report. However it will Just only cover the billing of the customers and the generating reports for sales and billing report of customers. It will delimit in billing using credit cards because it s not reliable to pay through credit cards.The proposed system will also limit only to customer-billing transaction. The inventory is not included in the proposed system because it will only focus in billing the customer and making total sales report. Ooh V. Significance of the Study This study and the proposed project will benefited the people engaged in this project. Management: The management of the organization will be benefited because they will have an accurate files and less manpower. It will give them also a productive result and time saving process.Cashier or the Counter's Personnel: It will benefit them a lot because it will make to lessen the work. It will provide an accurate and reliable of records and make works easier and faster in billing the customers. Customers: They will be benefit by giving accurate price and bills and worry-free. Proponent: The proponent will be benefited by enhancing and improving the information systems skills in analyzing and designing a program of the system. Future Developers: They will benefit them by giving chance to make the system for more improvements and add more features or functions. Customer service In today's world, we are Just about everything is more convenient and accessible due to advances of technology across almost all sectors. Technology seems more efficient and advantageous in our daily living and processing things gets more easier and improves our works and do more productive in developing of our lives. Technological advances create higher profit, fast access to information, increases communication and speed up work that gives impact to everyone and for general purpose.Information technology has it big impact in our country in many aspects such as government, education especially in business. Technology allows lessening the burden of works in companies or businesses; it eliminates error and comes with paperless. Technology also increases the business productivity of our country. And simply continue to change the business status and economic with the help of technology. A business such as salon or parlor is one of the industries that engaged to technology that helps man y people to beautify and deals with cosmetic treatment for men and women.The advances of technology affects a lot the economic of the Philippines and helps much in the production of the country's businesses, tourism and government. Having a billing system is important for keeping track of bills and payments to and from customers. Computerized billing exists to handle billing matters. Regularly using of services or programs can help you keep billing records and information up- to-date. Dilating Hair and Body Salon is a salon that is established to provide a good quality of service that is related to skin health, facial aesthetic, foot care, aromatherapy, and many other services to people.Having a salon that serves those kinds of services must also generate a good quality of billing to their customers. Dilating Hair and Body Salon use a manual billing system and do not have any computer related system. They do not have an organized file of bills and took much time for them to compute the total sales per day. They also took much time billing their customers. To help the said organization in their problems, a computer based billing system is proposed to make an organized file of bills and computed total sales lily, weekly or monthly.It will help them to make their service much efficient to their customers. II. Background of the Study Dilating Hair and Body Salon were originally come from Buenaventura. Idealist's first business name was â€Å"Dalai† from the mother of owner of the said business. And it was Just a general merchandise and a year passed they decided to have a facial clinic in the town of Boca and as the business run smoothly in the market they expand and upgrade until Dilating Hair and Body Salon were established on August 8, 2007 at San Miguel Boca, Martinique.Dilating Hair and Salon started to offer services to their customers such as regular treatment, massage, facial care, hair cuts, hair rebinding, hair relax and high end treatment. The se rvices of Dilating Hair and Salon are affordable for their customers that make their business successful and trust them for what the services they are offering to them. As they offer the services to their regular customers that keep from visiting their salon they give discounts for their trust and for making them beautiful and serving them with quality that satisfies their customer.Regular customers are discounted ranges 1 to 10%. Dilating Hair and Body Salon become one of the successful businesses in the province but use a manual billing system. This organization aims to have a good quality of service for their customer. Their objective is to serve their customer that will satisfy them and to make their customer happy. In the manual system of billing in the said organization the customer will ask or inquire to counter's desk for the service and ask how much each of service cost. The customer will only pay after the service.They are not giving invoices to their customers unless the customer asks for a receipt. However the organization does not have records of the customer bills and consume much time to compute the sales. They are literally using pens and papers for recording their bills and other reports that leads to inaccurate records of files. They are calculating it manually using a calculator that also leads to miscommunication. They keep their records and transactions manually that causes them to take much time and miscommunication. They have to check and compute if miscommunication happens.It affects them a lot especially when compiling the records and transactions of the total sales and bills. They are checking and computing it manually until miscommunication and error recordings are correct. Ill. Objectives of the Study General Objective: The general objective of the proposed project is to make a computerized billing system for Dilating Hair and Body Salon and to make a system that is user friendly for the organization. And to lessen the work about bi llings and have an organized files and reports. Specific Objectives:The following are the specific objectives of the study that will determine the deliverables. To present an accurate computation on the bill charged to the customers. To manage and secure the records on the database. To facilitate a faster transactions in billing the customers. To produce a print out on sales daily, weekly and monthly. To provide a convenient billing process. To develop a system that will help to make easier, faster and accurate billing process and to provide quality of service in terms of billing. To make the customers worry- free for their bills. IV. Scope and LimitationThe proposed system will have a customer's interface which primary purpose is to show the customer's bills to pay or the price of the service the customer want to by entering the code of the product by the cashier. The management's interface will have the log in which will provide the security of the billing system. Its primary purp ose is to allow the management to manage their services/prices and for the daily and weekly/monthly and reports in the database of the system. The cashier will have an interface that consists of prices and services and responsible for billing the customers.The customer with discount will have another interface which will contain the client's ID which will provide by the management and the customers primary information. The proposed system can update, delete, edit, record and add the product/service and prices. And print reports and invoices. The proposed system will generate daily sales report, billing report and monthly customer report. However it will Just only cover the billing of the customers and the generating reports for sales and billing report of customers. It will delimit in billing using credit cards because it s not reliable to pay through credit cards.The proposed system will also limit only to customer-billing transaction. The inventory is not included in the proposed system because it will only focus in billing the customer and making total sales report. Ooh V. Significance of the Study This study and the proposed project will benefited the people engaged in this project. Management: The management of the organization will be benefited because they will have an accurate files and less manpower. It will give them also a productive result and time saving process.Cashier or the Counter's Personnel: It will benefit them a lot because it will make to lessen the work. It will provide an accurate and reliable of records and make works easier and faster in billing the customers. Customers: They will be benefit by giving accurate price and bills and worry-free. Proponent: The proponent will be benefited by enhancing and improving the information systems skills in analyzing and designing a program of the system. Future Developers: They will benefit them by giving chance to make the system for more improvements and add more features or functions. Customer service In today's world, we are Just about everything is more convenient and accessible due to advances of technology across almost all sectors. Technology seems more efficient and advantageous in our daily living and processing things gets more easier and improves our works and do more productive in developing of our lives. Technological advances create higher profit, fast access to information, increases communication and speed up work that gives impact to everyone and for general purpose.Information technology has it big impact in our country in many aspects such as government, education especially in business. Technology allows lessening the burden of works in companies or businesses; it eliminates error and comes with paperless. Technology also increases the business productivity of our country. And simply continue to change the business status and economic with the help of technology. A business such as salon or parlor is one of the industries that engaged to technology that helps man y people to beautify and deals with cosmetic treatment for men and women.The advances of technology affects a lot the economic of the Philippines and helps much in the production of the country's businesses, tourism and government. Having a billing system is important for keeping track of bills and payments to and from customers. Computerized billing exists to handle billing matters. Regularly using of services or programs can help you keep billing records and information up- to-date. Dilating Hair and Body Salon is a salon that is established to provide a good quality of service that is related to skin health, facial aesthetic, foot care, aromatherapy, and many other services to people.Having a salon that serves those kinds of services must also generate a good quality of billing to their customers. Dilating Hair and Body Salon use a manual billing system and do not have any computer related system. They do not have an organized file of bills and took much time for them to compute the total sales per day. They also took much time billing their customers. To help the said organization in their problems, a computer based billing system is proposed to make an organized file of bills and computed total sales lily, weekly or monthly.It will help them to make their service much efficient to their customers. II. Background of the Study Dilating Hair and Body Salon were originally come from Buenaventura. Idealist's first business name was â€Å"Dalai† from the mother of owner of the said business. And it was Just a general merchandise and a year passed they decided to have a facial clinic in the town of Boca and as the business run smoothly in the market they expand and upgrade until Dilating Hair and Body Salon were established on August 8, 2007 at San Miguel Boca, Martinique.Dilating Hair and Salon started to offer services to their customers such as regular treatment, massage, facial care, hair cuts, hair rebinding, hair relax and high end treatment. The se rvices of Dilating Hair and Salon are affordable for their customers that make their business successful and trust them for what the services they are offering to them. As they offer the services to their regular customers that keep from visiting their salon they give discounts for their trust and for making them beautiful and serving them with quality that satisfies their customer.Regular customers are discounted ranges 1 to 10%. Dilating Hair and Body Salon become one of the successful businesses in the province but use a manual billing system. This organization aims to have a good quality of service for their customer. Their objective is to serve their customer that will satisfy them and to make their customer happy. In the manual system of billing in the said organization the customer will ask or inquire to counter's desk for the service and ask how much each of service cost. The customer will only pay after the service.They are not giving invoices to their customers unless the customer asks for a receipt. However the organization does not have records of the customer bills and consume much time to compute the sales. They are literally using pens and papers for recording their bills and other reports that leads to inaccurate records of files. They are calculating it manually using a calculator that also leads to miscommunication. They keep their records and transactions manually that causes them to take much time and miscommunication. They have to check and compute if miscommunication happens.It affects them a lot especially when compiling the records and transactions of the total sales and bills. They are checking and computing it manually until miscommunication and error recordings are correct. Ill. Objectives of the Study General Objective: The general objective of the proposed project is to make a computerized billing system for Dilating Hair and Body Salon and to make a system that is user friendly for the organization. And to lessen the work about bi llings and have an organized files and reports. Specific Objectives:The following are the specific objectives of the study that will determine the deliverables. To present an accurate computation on the bill charged to the customers. To manage and secure the records on the database. To facilitate a faster transactions in billing the customers. To produce a print out on sales daily, weekly and monthly. To provide a convenient billing process. To develop a system that will help to make easier, faster and accurate billing process and to provide quality of service in terms of billing. To make the customers worry- free for their bills. IV. Scope and LimitationThe proposed system will have a customer's interface which primary purpose is to show the customer's bills to pay or the price of the service the customer want to by entering the code of the product by the cashier. The management's interface will have the log in which will provide the security of the billing system. Its primary purp ose is to allow the management to manage their services/prices and for the daily and weekly/monthly and reports in the database of the system. The cashier will have an interface that consists of prices and services and responsible for billing the customers.The customer with discount will have another interface which will contain the client's ID which will provide by the management and the customers primary information. The proposed system can update, delete, edit, record and add the product/service and prices. And print reports and invoices. The proposed system will generate daily sales report, billing report and monthly customer report. However it will Just only cover the billing of the customers and the generating reports for sales and billing report of customers. It will delimit in billing using credit cards because it s not reliable to pay through credit cards.The proposed system will also limit only to customer-billing transaction. The inventory is not included in the proposed system because it will only focus in billing the customer and making total sales report. Ooh V. Significance of the Study This study and the proposed project will benefited the people engaged in this project. Management: The management of the organization will be benefited because they will have an accurate files and less manpower. It will give them also a productive result and time saving process.Cashier or the Counter's Personnel: It will benefit them a lot because it will make to lessen the work. It will provide an accurate and reliable of records and make works easier and faster in billing the customers. Customers: They will be benefit by giving accurate price and bills and worry-free. Proponent: The proponent will be benefited by enhancing and improving the information systems skills in analyzing and designing a program of the system. Future Developers: They will benefit them by giving chance to make the system for more improvements and add more features or functions.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Antigone Reaction Essay

Abstract This paper explores the relevance of the plot and theatrical elements of the great Greek tragedy, Antigone. It explains how even though Antigone was written thousands of years ago it is still important today; it is a play that all can relate to in some way. It also discusses my personal reactions to the play: what I liked, what I didn’t like, and what I thought could have been done differently for the improvement of the play. Antigone was written as the last play in a trilogy of tragedies. As one of the last remaining thirty-one plays from Ancient Greece, Antigone contains a plot and theatrical practices that were not only appreciated and relevant back in the days when it was written but that are also appreciated and relevant now. In the play, Antigone breaks the law by giving her brother a proper burial even though her king, Creon, has deemed him a traitor. She is caught in the act, and, as her punishment, forced into a cave where she will starve and die. Her fiancee, Creon’s son, begs Creon to release her, but Creon will not. Only after the seer tells Creon that if he does not spare Antigone the Gods will take vengeance does Creon go to Antigone’s cave to release her. Unfortunately, Antigone has already killed herself, and so has Creon’s son, out of heart break. The overall theme of this play-to stand up for what one believes is right-morphs as the plot goes on. At first, we see Antigone: a young, strong girl doing what she thinks is right (burying her brother) even though she knows it’s against the law. Throughout the plot, she stands by her decision, even when faced with her own demise. She never stops standing up for what she believes is right. King Creon, on the other hand, starts off believing that not burying the traitor brother is right, and anyone who defies his order should, rightfully, be put to death. He stands by this belief, even when the perpetrator is his son’s fiancee. But once he finds out that the Gods are not pleased with is decision to leave the brother unburied and to punish the sister, his belief quickly adapts. His character and his belief of right and wrong changes, showing the second part of the theme-what you believe is right may not always be right, and you need to be prepared to deal with the consequences. These themes are part of what makes the play relevant throughout the ages. Another part of what makes the play relevant throughout the ages are the theatrical practices. Since it’s a Greek tragedy, there are some theatrical practices that are outdated or not used in modern plays, such as the Chorus. However, the language, costumes, sets, lighting, and other technical elements used are simple enough that any theatre could easily produce this play. All they’d have to do is recreate the kind of dress that was worn in Ancient Greece. This play leaves quite a bit to the imagination of the director, actors, and designers. For example, it never describes the set in extreme, minute detail. This menas that the designers can make the set look just about anyway they want as long as they stick to the general outline of where the scene is taking place. Also, it never describes the characters in minute detail. This means the actors and directors can portray the characters however they wish as long as they stay true to the characters personality. As a reader, I very much enjoyed this play. The theme is one that all can relate to and learn from. It’s carried throughout the play very well, making the lesson and overall moral of the play easy to learn. The only thing that could have been done differently to make the play better, in my opinion, would be to give more description of the set and characters. Then, the reader could picture them better, but the actors could still depict them however they see fit. Even though Antigone was written thousands of years ago, it’s plotline and theatrical practices make it relevant and relatable today. That is what makes this great tragedy such a great classic.

Operations management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 5

Operations management - Essay Example According to statista.com VW’s global market share in 2012, based on the number of cars produced, was 13.6% in total (Statista, n.d. d). The report has covered a lot of areas which includes the different strategies used by three brands and about their focus on various elements which in combination become the operations strategies prevailing in individual organizations. The report also includes objectives and a four stage diagram which shows where the brands fall according to the model. It contains 4V analysis and they whole supply chain model. Comparatively, BMW which is currently on sixty-eighth position in Fortune Global 500 is not anywhere near as a competitor of VW. BMW is also a German Automobile manufacturing company that was founded in 1916. BMW owns some very renowned names like Rolls-Royce, which is the parent company of BMW, and Mini Cars. On the contrary BMW’s market share according to statista.com was 3.27% in 2012 based on the number of cars produced (Statista, n.d. a). Porsche was founded in 1931 by Ferdinand Porsche. In 2009 the company was acquired by Volkswagen group and now it is a part of this company. It had a very small contribution in VW market share in 2013 but in 2014 its individual market share increased which also increased the market share of VW as a whole (Winton, 2014). According to statista.com, in 2013 VW was the market leader with its revenue of 197.01 billion Euros followed by BMW which was 76.06 billion Euros (Statista, n.d. c). The contribution of Porsche in VW revenue was about 14.33 billion Euros in 2013 (Statista, n.d. b). Volkswagen majorly focuses on customer satisfaction and quality through introducing innovation and technologies. VW perceives customer satisfaction as the main factor of long-term success (Volkswagen, 2013). According to Forbes, in 2013 VW sold 9.7 million cars and their goal was to

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Dominant Groups Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Dominant Groups - Essay Example Therefore, an individual that has a dominant attribute of any of these aspects becomes part of the dominant group. Dominant groups play a vital role in the establishment of identities among member of the society (Pearson highered). It is critical to understand dominance in the society since it is a vital aspect of community. Dominance has various repercussions in fields such as fashion, politics and other aspects of the society. Thus, understanding this concept will be vital in this discipline. Additionally, dominance influences human aspects such as sexuality significantly. Consequently, understanding this concept will provide us with vital insight into various issues pertaining to this society. Therefore, this concept is vital in understanding issue such as social classes and their influence on trends. Classism is a key component of sociology hence, studying dominance would enable an individual understand this component appropriately (Brantley et.al). Understanding dominance would enable us understand the problems which contribute lead to dominance. These factors include wealth, race, education and culture. Therefore, understanding how these factors contribute to dominance will enable us have a comprehensive view of this topic. Additionally, it will enable a student understand other social which surround dominance. Factor such as wealth, power, race, education and culture influence dominance subsequently relevant studies will reveal what the minority parties are doing to achieve the dominant status. Additionally, studying dominance would provide insight on how various social classes perceive each other. Understanding dominance would also expand our knowledge on the existing groups and their interaction. Combination of power and wealth will result in super dominant group. Therefore, studying how factors that determine dominance interact would be essential. In the American society, dominance has been maintained in various

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

What Is the Meaning of Business Organization Assignment

What Is the Meaning of Business Organization - Assignment Example In this type of organization, it is not easy to manipulate directly and decision are made through political processes, the development of an informal organization is based on the day to day interactions and they change when people find new easier and time-saving ways of doing things. (Dickson 1939) The informal organization has an advantage over the formal sector in that it is flexible and will respond quickly to changing circumstances, this type of organization encourage cooperation through the existing norms and obligations. (Dore 1983). We can, therefore, differentiate the formal and informal organization by the way rules are set, the existence of a written document containing the rules, their flexibility to change and the execution of the rules. In the informal organization, there are high levels of human interactions and communication is based on informal relationships within the organization, this is in contrast with the formal organization where communication is formal. Another difference between the two is that hierarchy in the informal organization is not observed whereas in the formal the hierarchy of offices has to be observed. The formal sector has the advantage that the rules are set by those with authority and these rules are executed with minimum opposition, they also have the responsibility of making decisions in the organization. In the informal sector, rules are made from the day to day interactions and this influences their flexibility, this organizations will change quickly in case of any chants organization tons and if they find new ways of doing things. Decisions are made through a political process and therefore this organization has a very low risk of making wrong decisions that would lead to great losses.

Monday, August 26, 2019

Fundamental of International Buisness Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Fundamental of International Buisness - Essay Example As the discussion declares the company decided to expand globally It also wanted to get ahead of other retailers who were also heading in the same direction. In addition to greater growth, by gaining international reach, Wal-Mart has been able to demand deeper discounts from the local operations of its global suppliers thus increasing its potential to lower customer prices , gaining market share and ultimately earning greater profits. This paper stresses that Walmart is arguably as american a company as it can get.So when the decision was made to expand globally,there was plenty of skepticism to go around.Some of the major management decisions involved questions concerning where to begin , how to go about it and how to customize their products to a foreign clientele. While its retailing practices thrived in America ,there were a multitude of challenges it would have to face in other countries where infrastructure is different, government policies vary, and customer tastes and preferences are â€Å"foreign†. Not to mention the competition in the form of established retailers already having the leading edge .After its successful venture into the foreign market in the border and neighboring countries of the United States notably Canada and Mexico(where it’s the biggest private employer),it looked towards Europe for its next move. UK and Germany, countries with the biggest family incomes, became its next targets.

Sunday, August 25, 2019

How do theories of leadership provide practical advice on how to be an Essay

How do theories of leadership provide practical advice on how to be an effective leader Discuss, with reference to at least two theories or models of leadership - Essay Example Each of these theories is based on certain principles that have been used to define effective leaders. It is well known that there are individuals that have leaders naturally even without any form of training. However, there are those that require training in order for them to have leadership attributes. This essay will focus on the trait, behavioral and transformational theories of leadership. In addition, it will further address how these theories are applicable in practical leadership. Effective leaders naturally possess certain attributes that enables them to execute their roles effectively and efficiently. According to the trait theory, people are born or made to have certain qualities that facilitate their discharge of leadership roles. Ralph Stogdill advanced this theory in 1974 (Irvin 2007). An effective leader is obliged to exhibit certain traits such as being creative, have a sense of responsibility, be intelligent, be decisive, and have self-control among other important qualities. This theory argues that behavior modification is paramount for effective leadership. This indicates that a leader ought to conform to good values and attributes that will enable them to discharge their roles effectively. Through an analysis of the mental, physical, and social attributes, a leader can be identified through the values and attributes they exhibit and encourage in their respective jurisdictions. Upon the realization of the general traits that makes successful leader s, it becomes very easy to identify potential leaders. This indicates that an individual that endeavors to be an effective leader will strive to cultivate leadership values (Epstein 2010, p.7). Several traits have been identified as influencing the effectiveness of a leader. If such traits are embraced they can help a leader become more effective. While advancing the trait theory, Stogdill conducted a study in which he identified ten types of traits that are associated with effective leaders.

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Effective team and performance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Effective team and performance - Essay Example Nondi’s payroll system also ensures that workers pay is commensurate to their tasks. Maslow’s theory is applied in this scenario given that the restaurant aims at satisfying the basic needs of its employees before satisfying their secondary wants of self-actualization. According to the Clark, scientific theory of management, theory x, stipulates that the workforce needs to be controlled and supervised in order to dispense their duties as required by the organization. This leadership criterion is achieved through the application of division of labor. This ensures that each worker is given apportion for tasks to perform. This leads to increased productivity and performance. Moreover, these results in the motivation of employees. The division of labor in Nando’s is manifest in the manner in which the workers serve the clientele. Some staffs just welcome clients while others serve the customers. The rest of the employees, monitor the preparation of the flame grilled chicken.

Friday, August 23, 2019

The Conduct of Health Insurance Policy Fraud in the Rainmaker Assignment

The Conduct of Health Insurance Policy Fraud in the Rainmaker - Assignment Example Great Benefit insurance company has wilfully committed fraud when it continued to accept premiums and new policyholders when it knows for a fact that it is in a precarious financial condition to settle obligations due to its huge debt. I would like to give Great Benefit insurance company the benefit of the doubt that when it incorporated the company, it did not intend to wrong its policyholders but meant to fulfill its obligation. In the novel or movie, the insurance company may have been caused to commit fraud to preserve itself as a business entity because it is already hemorrhaging financially due to heavy debts. They may have employed the initial policy of denying all claims regardless of its legitimacy as a coping mechanism of their dire financial status. So the first measure that I will institute is for the insurance company to avoid the circumstance that will cause them to commit fraud in the future. I will fix their financial position by devising a policy that will make the company liquid at all times to settle all the claims of its policyholders in the future. Just like in the banks, I will require the insurance to have a liquidity that is commensurate to a certain number of policyholders that should a significant number of them will file a legitimate claim against their policies, the insurance company will be in a financial position to fulfill its obligation. Equally important is the institution of a policy of limiting the acceptance of new policyholders in accordance with its financial capacity and liquidity. For the time being, I will recommend that Great Benefits insurance company not to accept new policyholder until it has restructured its financial position.

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Physical Education Lesson Plan Essay Example for Free

Physical Education Lesson Plan Essay 1. Grade level: Second Grade 2. Estimated level of developmental stage: predictable, self-paced (Hastie, 2012). 3. Number of students: Twenty 4. Fundamental skill (to be taught): Dribbling a soccer ball with their feet 5. State standard for Washington State (NASPE, 2008) a. Demonstrates locomoter skills in a variety of activities and lead-up games i. Example: Uses walking/jogging/running skills in soccer ii. Demonstrates manipulative skills with stationary targets 1. Example: Kicks a ball toward a goal iii. Demonstrates mature form in manipulative skills in a variety of activities 2. Example: Traps a ball in soccer Section 2: 1. Student objective: a. As a result of this lesson students will be able to demonstrate dribbling skills while both walking and then jogging. Students will also be able to demonstrate trapping a ball and kicking a ball towards a stationary object. 2. Lesson description b. During this activity students will practice dribbling a ball with their feet; first walking and then jogging. Students will maintain control of the ball using the inside of their foot while dribbling the ball between cones towards the pop-up goal at the end of the field. Once the student reaches the last cone they will then trap the ball with their foot and take aim at the goal. 3. Classroom management system and student grouping c. Students will be divided into five groups with four students in each  group; each student will receive a shape card and will then be grouped according to the shape displayed on the card. Students will be reminded at the start of class regarding the class rules and consequences. Students will be reminded to use kind words, respect others around you, listen carefully, use equipment properly, and if in doubt ask. Consequences and rewards will be handled on a case by case basis meaning praise will be given to individual students and actions will be corrected as necessary. Ultimately the goal is to keep all students involved and engaged while ensuring the safety of everyone. As an educator it is important to be consistent and fair to all students using positive reinforcement and encouraging students to stay on task. 4. Equipment needed d. Twenty soccer balls, twenty-five orange cones for setting up the obstacle course, five pop-up goals at the end of the course, and a large outside grassy field. Section 3: 1. Content: Write a script of what the teacher would say and include the following for each task/skill. a. Task #1: Dribbling while walking first in a straight line, then through the cones i. Introducing the task/skill 1. Our first objective is to practice dribbling our soccer ball while walking. Remember to use the inside and outside of your foot when moving the ball down the field. I want you to first walk down the field dribbling your ball next to the row of cones and then return dribbling the ball while walking through the cones. When the first student begins the return trip through the cones the second student in the group may begin dribbling their ball next to the cones. ii. Safety concerns, rules and protocols to follow during the task 2. Watch out for other students 3. Be careful not to overtake the student in front of you 4. If the ball gets away from you quickly retrieve it iii. Teaching the task/skill 5. Educator will demonstrate the task once at the beginning and then again if students have questions or need extra clarification. iv. Questions to ask during the task as a form of assessment 6. What part of our foot do we use to dribble a ball? 7. Do we want to keep the ball close or far away? b. Task #2: Dribbling while jogging; first in a straight line then through the cones v. Introducing the task/skill 8. Our second objective is to practice dribbling our soccer ball while jogging. Remember to use the inside and outside of your foot when moving the ball down the field. I want you to first jog down the field dribbling your ball next to the row of cones and then return dribbling the ball while jogging through the cones. When the first student begins the return trip through the cones the second student in the group may begin dribbling their ball next to the cones. vi. Safety concerns, rules and protocols to follow during the task 9. Watch out for other students 10. Be careful not to overtake the student in front of you 11. If the ball gets away from you quickly retrieve it vii. Teaching the task/skill 12. Educator will demonstrate the task once at the beginning and then again if students have questions or need extra clarification. viii. Questions to ask during the task as a form of assessment 13. Was it easier or harder to dribble while you were jogging versus when you were walking? 14. Does the change in speed from walking to jogging affect your ability to maintain control of the ball? 2. Culminating activity: c. Class, now we are going to combine our soccer skills together. We are going to have a relay race with each group being a team. The object of the game is for all students in each group to successfully kick their ball into the goal. The first student in each group will dribble their ball through the cones, trap the ball with their foot, and then kick the ball into the goal. Once their ball has successfully made it into the goal they will run back and tag the next teammate in line. The key to success in this game is maintaining control of your ball at all times. 3. Assessment: d. In order to assess the students in my class I would use observational skills to determine if they are meeting the lesson objectives. I would use a scale rating system; based on a scale of one to five, with five being perfect and one being unsatisfactory. I would rate the students based upon whether they could maintain control of a ball while dribbling, trap the ball with their foot, and accurately kick the ball towards a stationary object. Section 4: 1. Home/school connection: a. I would send out an email to all parents suggesting ways students can practice dribbling skills at home. In the email I would include ideas such as parents setting up an obstacle course for kids to dribble through. I would suggest that parents can use household objects such as soup cans for the â€Å"cones† and any round ball would work for dribbling. I would encourage parents to practice with their kids by first demonstrating the skill and then just participating. When parents are involved with their kids in a physical activity the child is more likely to stick with it longer and of course it is an excellent way for parents to bond with their child. 2. Modifications and adaptations b. Inclusion of a child with a physical impairment (e.g. a child confined to a wheelchair, or a child that requires the use of assistive technology). i. One way to include a child confined to a wheelchair would be to have them hold the soccer ball in their lap and maneuver their wheelchair through the cones; upon reaching the end they can throw the ball into the goal. A second way to include them would be to have them use a paddle to â€Å"dribble† the ball through the cones and ultimately hitting the ball into the goal. c. Inclement weather or an altered schedule forces you to change your location. Choose a different location to discuss (e.g. a smaller classroom as opposed to a gym). ii. Due to inclement weather the lesson would need to be moved indoors to the gym. Since the gym floor surface is much smoother than a grassy field I would have the student’s only practice dribbling while walking in order to maintain better control of their ball. d. Several children from a  different grade are temporarily joining this class for this particular lesson. iii. In order to include all students fairly I would disperse the children in groups using the shape cards, but if one group was disproportionately older students or younger students I would need to rearrange a bit. In order for the relay race to be fair each group would need an even mixture of older students versus younger students. References Hastie, P. (2012). Foundations of moving learning. San Diego, CA. Bridgepoint Education, Inc. NASPE (2008). Washington State K-12 state standards. Retrieved from http://www.k12.wa.us/HealthFitness/Standards-GLEs/HealthFitnessStateStandards.PDF.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Energy drinks Essay Example for Free

Energy drinks Essay Since the mid-2000s, demands in the global beverage industry shift from carbonated soft drink to alternative beverages. Because of this market grows rapidly and gives high profit margins, it make changes in beverage manufacturing and encourage new entrant to focus solely on alternative beverages. Alternative beverages segment is comprised of energy drinks, sports drink, and flavored or enhanced water. Each segment has different consumer types and different distribution channel. In developed countries, such as USA, this carbonated soft drink market has reached a mature stage but energy drink and ready-to-drink tea is still inclined. However, beverage industry is steady growth in developing countries. Alternative beverages competed on the basis of differentiation from traditional drinks such as carbonated soft drinks or fruit juices. All energy drink brands attempted to develop brand loyalty based on taste, the energy-boosting properties of their ingredients, and image. The strongest competitive force is buyer because buyer costs to switch brands are low. Consumers will be more prices sensitive and will switch to other product or even other segment. The weakness competitive force is rivalry because of many sellers in this market and diversity in commodities. The high profit margins will make alternative beverage market attract entrants that are more new, also supported by rising demand for the alternative beverage. Energy drinks pricing is 400% higher than carbonated soft drinks. In addition, to create an alternative beverage business needs medium-high capital investment. The market of global beverage industry is projected to grow from $1. 58 trillion in 2009 and forecasted to grow to nearly $1. 78 trillion in 2014 as beverage producers entered new geographic markets, developed new types of beverages, and continued to create demand for popular drinks. It is expect to result from steady growth in the purchasing power of consumers in developing countries. In addition, alternative beverages tended to carry high price points, which made them attractive to both new entrants and established beverage companies. Sport drinks and vitamin-enhanced beverages tended to carry retail prices that were 50 to 75% higher than similar-size carbonated soft drinks and bottled water, while energy drink pricing by volume might be as much as 400% higher than carbonated soft drinks. While the alternative beverage segment of the industry offered opportunities for bottlers, the poor economy had decreased demand for higher-priced beverages, with sales of sports drinks declining by 12. 3%. The Alternative beverages consumer profile varied substantially across the three types of beverages. Then energy drink consumer was a teenage boy, sports drink consumer were purchased by those who engaged in sports, fitness or other strenuous activities. Vitamin-enhanced beverages could substitute for sports drinks but were frequently purchased by adult consumers in increasing their intakes of vitamins. The best position strategic group map is reasonable price and reasonable quality. The worst position is the low price and quality. Now people think about health more than in the past, and they still worry about economic crisis. The alternative beverage chose set strategic group map with answer key we are alternative. We found that key factors, which determine the success of alternative beverage producers,have many factors. First, is Productinnovation, Product Innovation can be done by customizing product ingredient, flavor, packaging, or the benefit that product offer to consumer. Second, Focus in one segment can be the best strategy like Red Bull. Their focus in energy drink segment make them became the market leader in energy drink. Third, there are many type of channel distributor, like supermarkets, natural foods store, wholesale clubs, convenience store, and restaurant. The company’schoose is depends on the company resource. Example PepsiCo and Coca Cola were dominating convenience store and special event channel. However, for company with limited resource use third parties channel distribution will has lowest cost in transportation and labor. Fourth, use the right supplier can reduce production cost. The last one is Brand image, the right promotions that really connect with the product image will make the brand and product can penetrate the market.

Media: Promoting And Protecting Right To Information

Media: Promoting And Protecting Right To Information Freedom of expression, unrestricted propagation of ideas and ready access to information are essential for the functioning of a democratic government. If people are unaware of what is happening in their society or if the actions of those who rule them are hidden, then they are prevented from taking a significant part in the affairs of the society. Access to information not only facilitates active participation of the people in the democratic governance process, but also promotes openness, transparency and accountability in administration. It is thus a crucial facilitator of good governance, as it reflects and captures Government activities and processes. In the same light, the right of every citizen to access information held by or under the control of public authorities, has been as effective tool for ushering in good governance. The Indian Parliament enacted the Freedom of Information Act, 2002, to promote transparency and accountability in administration. This was subsequently repealed and later a new act, The Right to Information Act, came into force on 12 October 2005. Under the law the Indian citizens are empowered to seek information from a Public Authority, thus making the Government and its functionaries more accountable and responsible. The Act has now been in operation for over three years and has benefited many, including the poor and the underprivileged. The many provisions of the Act mandate a legal-institutional framework for setting out the practical regime of right to information for every citizen to secure access to information under the control of public authorities. Participation, rule of law, transparency, responsiveness, equity and inclusiveness, effectiveness, efficiency, accountability, strategic vision and consensus-orientation are the major characteristics of good governance. Transparency refers to decisions being taken openly and being enforced according to rules and regulations. It mandates that information should be freely available and directly accessible to those who will be affected by such decisions and their enforcement. It also means that enough information is provided to all the stakeholders and the media, in easily understandable forms to enable their meaningful participation in the decision making processes and criticism of the same. Accountability ensures that public institutions and functionaries are answerable to the people and to their institutional stakeholders i.e. those who will be affected by its decisions or actions. Accountability cannot be enforced without a regime of transparency. We discussed the factors contributing to good governance. Herein, it is pertinent to mention that a direct relationship exists between right to Information, informed citizenry and good governance. On one hand good governance aims at putting an end to inconsistent government practices and establishing a responsive State, the Right to Information provides citizens the opportunity of being informed of the Governments actions. Public participation in Government, respect for the rule of law, freedom of expression and association, transparency and accountability, legitimacy of Government, and the like, which are the core values of good governance, can be realised only if the right to information is implemented in the right spirit. The role of media organisations assumes considerable importance in realising the objectives of the RTI Act. The media can not only play an important role in monitoring public service delivery by invoking provisions under the RTI Act, but can also facilitate in generating awareness and capacity building on RTI among the community. Thus the media performs an important role in the governance process by acting as a bridge between the community and public agencies. The media can make a real difference to the lives of poor and disadvantaged people and aid in development by making people more aware of their rights and entitlements and enabling them to have access to government programmes, schemes and benefits. Besides people can be made more aware of political issues which would help to stimulate critical thinking and debate. This creates pressure for improved government performance, accountability and quality. The media also helps in drawing attention to institutional failings corruption, fraud, waste, inefficiency, cronyism, nepotism, abuse of power and the like. It fosters exchange of best practices, knowledge resources, access to better technology, and to better choices. A discursive space for citizens to dialogue with other actors in the governance process is also provided by the media. Empowerment, social awareness action and good governance are the three key areas through which the media can make a significant impact on development and poverty reduction. Firstly, the media gives voice to the needs and aspirations of the people and provides them access to relevant information. Thus, it cannot be denied that the media has a definite role to play in the empowerment of citizens. In all its varied forms, media has opened up the potential for new forms of participation. The access to information and accessibility of information has increased with growth of print and electronic media and the Internet. In contemporary times, the media is being used even by the vulnerable and marginalized sections of the society to make their voices heard. Secondly, the media can be effective not only in preserving freedom but also in extending it. The news media plays a decisive role in establishing a discursive space for public deliberations over social issues. The formative influence o f the media on public attitudes, thoughts and perceptions is fundamental to the process of citizen engagement in public dialogue. Giving a voice to the poor also entails giving the poor people adequate opportunities to take initiatives for overcoming their problems. The media, through its role in shaping public awareness and action, can be a critical factor in facilitating sustainable development and poverty reduction. Lastly, a free media is a necessary requisite for good governance. As an information channel between corporations, government, and the populace, the media acts as a watchdog against government malfeasance, while at the same time fosters greater transparency and accountability. The media monitors public service delivery and reports on key issues to the public at large, thereby exerting pressure on public service providers. The media creates the right framework of incentives for good governance, by highlighting institutional failings to guard against as well as institut ional successes for replication. It lets people voice diverse opinions on governance and reform, exposes corruption and malpractices and helps build public consensus to bring about change. The World Association of Newspapers (WAN), the global organisation of the worlds press has long argued that a free and unfettered press is a positive force for accelerated and equitable socio-economic development. It held that the predominance of free and independent press accompanies economic growth and human development. In countries with free press, human development indicators such as school enrolment, teacher-pupil ratio, pupil performance, infant mortality, maternal mortality, nutritional status of women and children etc. tend to fare better than countries with restrictions on press and freedom of information. The work of the Nobel Laureate, Amartya Sen has even established a link between active media and the avoidance of disasters like famines. The role of media as a watchdog of the government and the corporate sector, a transmitter of new ideas and information, a voice of the poor, a safeguard against the abuse of power and neglect of the socially vulnerable, and a builder of public consensus to bring about change is pervasive. However, the independence of the media can be fragile and easily compromised. It is clear that to support development, the media needs the right environment in terms of freedoms, capacities, and checks and balances. The Right to Information regime does give the media that critical support. Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations states: Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers. The above provision only reiterates the fact that the mass media is the most important vehicle for information, knowledge and communication in a democratic polity. They are pervasive and play a significant role in shaping societies by providing the public sphere of information and debate that enables social and cultural discourse, participation and accountability. Being the most accessible, cost-effective and widespread source of information and platform for expression the media plays a crucial role in building an inclusive Information Society based on knowledge power and its distribution. However to ensure that the potential of the media is truly achieved steps should be taken to protect and extend media freedom and independence, and rights of access to information by actively developing the potential of media to provide information along with a forum for debate on topics of public interest, cultural expression and opportunity to communicate, especially to the poor and marginalised. Strengthening the capacity of media should be facilitated, to promote and help build an Information Society by raising awareness, channelling civil society concerns, debating policies and holding government, private sector and civil society accountable. An RTI regime can enable credible, evidence-based and factual reporting on key issues of public interest. It can enable the media to expose mal-administration, corruption and inefficiency and to propagate stories and instances relating to accountability, transparency, effective administration and good governance. By using the RTI Act, the media can play an important role in highlighting issues related to public service delivery and the efficacy and accountability of public officials. Under the RTI Act, the journalists reporters, like citizens, can: Demand from the Government information pertaining to any of its departments Demand photocopies of Government contracts, payment, estimates, measurements of engineering works etc. Demand from the Government certified samples of material used in the construction of roads, drains, buildings etc. Demand to inspect any public development work that may be still under construction or completed Demand to inspect Government documents construction drawings, records books, registers, quality control reports etc. Demand status of requests or complaints, details of time delays, action taken on Information Commissions decisions etc. The media thus can play a constructive role in the governance process by acting as a catalyzing agent for the implementation of the core provisions of the Act. As the fourth pillar of democracy, the media not only has an important stake in what the RTI Act purports to provide and achieve, but also in entrenching the implementation and enforcement of this significant piece of legislation. Besides, fundamentally the media aids in providing information to the citizens and building awareness among the masses on the Act. Despite the provisions that have been made to access information, citizens resort to media like newspapers, radio, television etc. for day to day information about public authorities and their activities. The media provides a link between the citizens and their government. The medias right to information or right to tell is not a special privilege but rather, an aspect of the publics right to know. It thereby gives voice to the Citizens. As part of the civil society, the media is obligated to articulate the needs and aspirations of the people. Using the Act, the media can highlight key issues faced by the citizens, particularly those faced by the poor and voiceless. The role of the media as a watchdog on behalf of the citizens cannot be ignored. The best service that the media provides to the public, whether in a mature or emerging democracy, is that of a community watchdog. Journalists should see and perform their role keeping in mind public interest. Using RTI, the media can expose corruption and inefficiency. However, in performing a watchdog role and digging out the truth, journalists should be careful in interpreting facts and evidence. The multi-dimensional facets of the importance of the media reiterate that the media plays the role of an honest broker of information for its readers without deliberate bias or favouritism. The media must consider its independence to be its most valuable commercial, editorial and moral asset. Maintaining its independence through professional behaviour and a code of conduct that is subscribed to by all journalists, the media can be a powerful user of the RTI Act and an agent for the empowerment of people through an Information Society. The objective of the Act to usher in a practical regime of right to information cannot be attained without a proactive role played by the media.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Sleep, Dreams, and Our Mental and Physical Processes Essay -- Research

Sleep, Dreams, and Our Mental and Physical Processes Scientists have been researching and conducting studies to discover the true meaning of sleep and dreams. Scientists have developed a few theories on whether we sleep and dream to build up our mental or physical energy. According to the author of an article in Encarta Encyclopedia, Siegel defined sleep as the "natural state of rest characterized by reduced body movement and decreased awareness of surroundings" (Siegel). In an article on MSNBC Interactive, scientists believe in the physical aspects such that energy is lost throughout the day, so sleep is a time to build or restore that energy back up for the next day. The body also does some repair work. A hormone is released while sleeping to restore and build body tissue (Why do we need"). Other scientists in the MSNBC article argue that sleep restores our mental energy. Humans spend all day using the brain and draining out the energy, so sleep is the time to boost that energy up again ("Why do we need"). The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes explained that sleep is also needed for the nervous system to work properly. Sleep gives neurons the chance to shut down and repair themselves, if they do not rest then they begin to malfunction. In deep sleep, growth hormones are released into body, which is important for children and young adults ("Brain Basics"). The true function of sleep though still remains a mystery. Whether sleep is a time for mental or physical restoration, the process of sleep is the same. Lefton, author of a well-known textbook called Psychology, explains that sleep is broken down into five stages. By using electroencephalograms (EEGs), scientists found out more about these ... ...remain a mystery. Works Cited Brain Basics: Understanding Sleep. 3 July 2003. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes. 2 April 2004 <http://www.ninds.nih.gov/health_ and_medical/pubs/understanding_sleep_brain_basic_.htm>. Condor, Bob. "In Our Dreams, Our Emotions Run The Show." Chicago Tribune (21 March 2004). ProQuest Direct. Penn State University Library. 5 April 2004. How Much Sleep Do We Need? 2001. Yahoo! Health. 1 April 2004 <http://health.yahoo. com/health/centers/sleep_disorders/102>. Lefton, Lester A. and Linda Brannon. Psychology. Ed. Carol Merrill. 8th ed. Boston: Pearson Education, 2003. 193-201. Siegel, Jerome M. "Sleep." Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia Standard CD-ROM. Redmond: Microsoft, 2004. Why Do We Need To Sleep So Much? 2004. MSNBC Interactive. 1 April 2004 <http://msnbc.msn.com/id/3076707>.

Monday, August 19, 2019

The Character Development Program of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools :: Education CMS Essays

The Character Development Program of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS), with the support of The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, recently received a four-year, 1.83 million dollar grant from the United States Department of Education to implement a character development program for students. This program is designed to integrate character development into classroom instruction and to ensure parental and community involvement in character development initiatives. The program has existed for one year. The purpose of this paper is to overview the goals and activities of the program. The program goals are to: (1) enhance character development among CMS students; (2) identify the extent to which students in the treatment group exhibit fewer instances of negative behavior as a result of exposure to character development activities; (3) enhance the understanding and involvement of parents and families in school-based character education efforts; and (4) increase the involvement of the faith and social communities in school-based character education efforts in CMS. The goals of the program are being measured through multiple data collection techniques  ¡V surveys, interviews, focus groups, observations, and review of existing data. Evaluation of the program is both formative and summative. Using a quasi-experimental design with carefully matched comparison conditions, twenty-five elementary, middle, and high schools with more than 24,000 students (i.e., the treatment group) are being exposed to an array of character development initiatives. These schools have been matched with demographically similar schools (i.e., the control group) that are not receiving these initiatives. Baseline data for goals and objectives were obtained during the 2002-2003 school year for the purpose of comparison with data obtained during subsequent years of the program. We expect that this program will decrease office referrals and suspensions, increase attendance, and increase the number of students participating in service learning at a statistically significant level. In addition, we expect that Parent-Teacher Association attendance and parental awareness of good character will increase. Also, we anticipate an increase in involvement in schools of the faith and business communities, a fusing of character and religious teachings within the faith community, and an increase in the in-kind and financial support of the schools from the business and social community. During the next three years, CMS central office will support the treatment schools' efforts to enhance character development by: . Developing a guide for parents that describes how families can teach and model

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Don Juan Ponce De Leon :: essays research papers

Spanish 10th essay Ponce De Leon Don Juan Ponce de Leon &quot;To bad he had to kick the bucket!&quot; &#9;Don Juan Ponce de Leon was a Spanish conqueror and explorer. He was born around 1460 in San Tervas de Campos, Spain. Ponce de Leon lived during an age of great discovery and excitement. Ponce de Leon is well known, claiming and naming what is now Florida, the discovery of Puerto Rico, and his never-ending search for the old time classic, the Fountain of Youth! On November 19, 1493 Ponce de Leon was one of the first Europeans to see the small island of Borinquen, the Indian name for Puerto Rico. Ponce de Leon sailed to Puerto Rico in 1506 with two hundred men to the island and found out that it had rich gold deposits. He enslaved the natives, and forced them to mine gold for him. Ponce de Leon left Puerto Rico and returned again in 1508 this time he brought with him only fifty men. On this voyage his ship went through a terrible storm that caused him to run onto the rocks on two occasions. The crew was forced to throw over much of their supplies in order to keep the ship from sinking. After Ponce de Leon finally arrived in Puerto Rico he became the governor of the island. This caused him to become very wealthy, and the most powerful man on the island, who only received orders from the kind himself! In 1511 King Ferdinand ordered Ponce de Leon replaced as governor by Diego Columbus. Life for Ponce de Leon would have been difficult if he stayed in Puerto Rico since much of his power over the island was taken when his rank was taken away. It was at this time that Ponce de Leon began his search for the Fountain of Youth. Many historians feel it was not only to discover the LENGENDARY waters, but also for the gold and silver that was supposed to be at the sight of the fountain. Ponce de Leon explored many regional islands in his search for the Fountain of Youth, including the Bahamas and Bimini. It was during Ponce de Leon's search for the Fountain of Youth that he came to a land that he eventually named, La Florida or "land of flowers". He made two visits to this new land. On his first visit the native inhabitants were friendly to Ponce de Leon and his men.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Bond and Market Capitalization Rate

330-s2013-prac9 1. An American put option gives its holder the right to _________. A. buy the underlying asset at the exercise price on or before the expiration date B. buy the underlying asset at the exercise price only at the expiration date C. sell the underlying asset at the exercise price on or before the expiration date D. sell the underlying asset at the exercise price only at the expiration date 2. An American call option gives the buyer the right to _________. A. buy the underlying asset at the exercise price on or before the expiration date B. buy the underlying asset at the exercise price only at the expiration date C. ell the underlying asset at the exercise price on or before the expiration date D. sell the underlying asset at the exercise price only at the expiration date 3. A European call option gives the buyer the right to _________. A. buy the underlying asset at the exercise price on or before the expiration date B. buy the underlying asset at the exercise price on ly at the expiration date C. sell the underlying asset at the exercise price on or before the expiration date D. sell the underlying asset at the exercise price only at the expiration date 4. You purchase one IBM July 120 call contract for a premium of $5.You hold the option until the expiration date when IBM stock sells for $123 per share. You will realize a ______ on the investment. A. $200 profit B. $200 loss C. $300 profit D. $300 loss 5. At contract maturity the value of a call option is ___________ where X equals the option's strike price and ST is the stock price at contract expiration. A. Max(0, ST – X) B. Min(0, ST – X) C. Max(0, X – ST) D. Min(0, X – ST) 1 1. C 2. A 3. B 4. B 5. A Long Call Profit = Max[0,($123 – $120)(100)] – $500 = -$200 1. A firm that has an ROE of 12% is considering cutting its dividend payout.The stockholders of the firm desire a dividend yield of 4% and a capital gain yield of 9%. Given this information which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? I. All else equal the firm's growth rate will accelerate after the payout change II. All else equal the firm's stock price will go up after the payout change III. All else equal the firm's P/E ratio will increase after the payout change A. I onlyB. I and II onlyC. II and III onlyD. I, II and III 2. A firm cuts its dividend payout ratio. As a result you know that the firm's _______. A. return on assets will increaseB. arnings retention ratio will increase C. earnings growth rate will fallD. stock price will fall 3. An underpriced stock provides an expected return which is ____________ the required return based on the capital asset pricing model (CAPM). A. less thanB. equal toC. greater thanD. greater than or equal to 4. Stockholders of Dog's R Us Pet Supply expect a 12% rate of return on their stock. Management has consistently been generating a ROE of 15% over the last 5 years but now believes that ROE will be 12% for the next five year s. Given this the firm's optimal dividend payout ratio is now ______.A. 0%B. 100%C. between 0% and 50%D. between 50% and 100% 5. The constant growth dividend discount model (DDM) can be used only when the ___________. A. growth rate is less than or equal to the required returnB. growth rate is greater than or equal to the required return C. growth rate is less than the required returnD. growth rate is greater than the required return 6. Suppose that in 2009 the expected dividends of the stocks in a broad market index equaled $240 million when the discount rate was 8% and the expected growth rate of the dividends equaled 6%.Using the constant growth formula for valuation, if interest rates increase to 9% the value of the market will change by _____. A. -10%B. -20%C. -25%D. -33% 7. You are considering acquiring a common share of Sahali Shopping Center Corporation that you would like to hold for one year. You expect to receive both $1. 25 in dividends and $35 from the sale of the share at the end of the year. The maximum price you would pay for a share today is __________ if you wanted to earn a 12% return. A. $31. 25B. $32. 37C. $38. 47D. $41. 32 8. Eagle Brand Arrowheads has expected earnings of $1. 5 per share and a market capitalization rate of 12%. Earnings are expected to grow at 5% per year indefinitely. The firm has a 40% plowback ratio. By how much does the firm's ROE exceed the market capitalization rate? A. 0. 5%B. 1. 0%C. 1. 5%D. 2. 0% 9. A preferred share of Coquihalla Corporation will pay a dividend of $8. 00 in the upcoming year, and every year thereafter, i. e. , dividends are not expected to grow. You require a return of 7% on this stock. Using the constant growth DDM to calculate the intrinsic value, a preferred share of Coquihalla Corporation is worth _________. A. $13. 50B. $45. 50C. $91. 0D. $114. 29 10. Brevik Builders has an expected ROE of 25%. Its dividend growth rate will be __________ if it follows a policy of paying 30% of earning in t he form of dividends. A. 5. 0%B. 15. 0%C. 17. 5%D. 45. 0% 11. Cache Creek Manufacturing Company is expected to pay a dividend of $3. 36 in the upcoming year. Dividends are expected to grow at 8% per year. The riskfree rate of return is 4% and the expected return on the market portfolio is 14%. Investors use the CAPM to compute the market capitalization rate, and the constant growth DDM to determine the value of the stock. The stock's current price is $84. 0. Using the constant growth DDM, the market capitalization rate is _________. A. 9%B. 12%C. 14%D. 18% 12. Ace Ventura, Inc. has expected earnings of $5 per share for next year. The firm's ROE is 15% and its earnings retention ratio is 40%. If the firm's market capitalization rate is 10%, what is the present value of its growth opportunities? A. $25B. $50C. $75D. $100 13. Flanders, Inc. has expected earnings of $4 per share for next year. The firm's ROE is 8% and its earnings retention ratio is 40%. If the firm's market capitalizat ion rate is 15%, what is the present value of its growth opportunities?A. -$6. 33B. $0C. $20. 34D. $26. 67 14. Cache Creek Manufacturing Company is expected to pay a dividend of $4. 20 in the upcoming year. Dividends are expected to grow at the rate of 8% per year. The riskfree rate of return is 4% and the expected return on the market portfolio is 14%. Investors use the CAPM to compute the market capitalization rate on the stock, and the constant growth DDM to determine the intrinsic value of the stock. The stock is trading in the market today at $84. 00. Using the constant growth DDM and the CAPM, the beta of the stock is _________. A. 1. 4B. 0. 9C. 0. 8D. 0. 5 15.Westsyde Tool Company is expected to pay a dividend of $2. 00 in the upcoming year. The risk-free rate of return is 6% and the expected return on the market portfolio is 12%. Analysts expect the price of Westsyde Tool Company shares to be $29 a year from now. The beta of Westsyde Tool Company's stock is 1. 20. Using a on eperiod valuation model, the intrinsic value of Westsyde Tool Company stock today is _________. A. $24. 29B. $27. 39C. $31. 13D. $34. 52 16. Todd Mountain development Corporation is expected to pay a dividend of $2. 50 in the upcoming year. Dividends are expected to grow at the rate of 8% per year.The risk-free rate of return is 5% and the expected return on the market portfolio is 12%. The stock of Todd Mountain Development Corporation has a beta of 0. 75. Using the CAPM, the return you should require on the stock is _________. A. 7. 25%B. 10. 25%C. 14. 75%D. 21. 00% 17. Interior Airline is expected to pay a dividend of $3 in the upcoming year. Dividends are expected to grow at the rate of 10% per year. The risk-free rate of return is 4% and the expected return on the market portfolio is 13%. The stock of Interior Airline has a beta of 4. 00. Using the constant growth DDM, the intrinsic value of the stock is _________.A. $10. 00B. $22. 73C. $27. 78D. $41. 67 18. Everything equal, w hich variable is negatively related to intrinsic value of a company? A. D1B. D0C. gD. k 19. A common stock pays an annual dividend per share of $1. 80. The risk-free rate is 5 percent and the risk premium for this stock is 4 percent. If the annual dividend is expected to remain at $1. 80 per share, what is the value of the stock? A. $17. 78B. $20. 00C. $40. 00D. None of the above 20. A stock is priced at $45 per share. The stock has earnings per share of $3. 00 and a market capitalization rate of 14%. What is the stock's PVGO?A. $23. 57B. $15. 00C. $19. 78D. $21. 34 21. If a firm has a free cash flow equal to $50 million and that cash flow is expected to grow at 3% forever, what is the total firm value given a WACC of 9. 5%? A. $679 millionB. $715 millionC. $769 millionD. $803 million 22. Next year's earnings are estimated to be $5. 00. The company plans to reinvest 20% of its earnings at 15%. If the cost of equity is 9%, what is the present value of growth opportunities? A. $9. 09B . $10. 10C. $11. 11D. $12. 21 1. A2. B3. C4. B5. C6. D7. B8. A9. D10. C11. B12. A13. A14. B15. B16. B17. A18. D19. B20. A21. C22.C 1. Consider two bonds, A and B. Both bonds presently are selling at their par value of $1,000. Each pay interest of $120 annually. Bond A will mature in 5 years while bond B will mature in 6 years. If the yields to maturity on the two bonds change from 12% to 14%, _________. A. both bonds will increase in value but bond A will increase more than bond B B. both bonds will increase in value but bond B will increase more than bond A C. both bonds will decrease in value but bond A will decrease more than bond B D. both bonds will decrease in value but bond B will decrease more than bond A 2.Everything else equal the __________ the maturity of a bond and the __________ the coupon the greater the sensitivity of the bond's price to interest rate changes. A. longer; higher B. longer; lower C. shorter; higher D. shorter; lower 3. A __________ bond is a bond where the issuer has an option to retire the bond before maturity at a specific price after a specific date. A. callable B. coupon C. puttable D. treasury 4. In an era of particularly low interest rates, which of the following bonds is most likely to be called? A. Zero coupon bonds B. Coupon bonds selling at a discount C. Coupon bonds selling at a premium D.Floating rate bonds 5. A coupon bond which pays interest of 4% annually, has a par value of $1,000, matures in 5 years, and is selling today at $785. The actual yield to maturity on this bond is _________. A. 7. 2% B. 8. 8% C. 9. 1% D. 9. 6% 6. A coupon bond which pays interest of $60 annually, has a par value of $1,000, matures in 5 years, and is selling today at a $75. 25 discount from par value. The current yield on this bond is _________. A. 6. 00% B. 6. 49% C. 6. 73% D. 7. 00% 7. A coupon bond which pays interest semi-annually has a par value of $1,000, matures in 8 years, and has a yield to maturity of 6%.If the coupon rate is 7 %, the intrinsic value of the bond today will be __________ (to the nearest dollar). A. $1,000 B. $1,063 C. $1,081 D. $1,100 8. A treasury bond due in one year has a yield of 6. 3% while a treasury bond due in 5 years has a yield of 8. 8%. A bond due in 5 years issued by High Country Marketing Corporation has a yield of 9. 6% while a bond due in one year issued by High Country Marketing Corporation has a yield of 6. 8%. The default risk premiums on the one-year and 5-year bonds issued by High Country Marketing Corp. are respectively __________ and _________. A. 0. 4%, 0. 3% B. 0. 4%, 0. % C. 0. 5%, 0. 5% D. 0. 5%, 0. 8% 9. A zero-coupon bond has a yield to maturity of 5% and a par value of $1,000. If the bond matures in 16 years, it should sell for a price of __________ today. A. $458. 00 B. $641. 00 C. $789. 00 D. $1,100. 00 10. You can be sure that a bond will sell at a premium to par when _________. A. its coupon rate is greater than its yield to maturity B. its coupon rate is le ss than its yield to maturity C. its coupon rate equal to its yield to maturity D. its coupon rate is less than its conversion value 11. Consider a 7-year bond with a 9% coupon and a yield to maturity of 12%.If interest rates remain constant, one year from now the price of this bond will be _________. A. higher B. lower C. the same D. indeterminate 12. The yield to maturity on a bond is ________. I. above the coupon rate when the bond sells at a discount, and below the coupon rate when the bond sells at a premium II. the discount rate that will set the present value of the payments equal to the bond price III. equal to the true compound return on investment only if all interest payments received are reinvested at the yield to maturity A. I only B. II only C. I and II only D. I, II and III 13.Assuming semiannual compounding, a 20-year zero coupon bond with a par value of $1,000 and a required return of 12% would be priced at _________. A. $97 B. $104 C. $364 D. $732 14. The yield to maturity of an 10-year zero coupon bond, with a par value of $1,000 and a market price of $625, is _____. A. 4. 8% B. 6. 1% C. 7. 7% D. 10. 4% 15. If the quote for a Treasury bond is listed in the newspaper as 98:09 bid, 98:13 ask, the actual price for you to purchase this bond given a $10,000 par value is _____________. A. $9,828. 12 B. $9,809. 38 C. $9,840. 62 D. $9,813. 42 16. The price on a treasury bond is 104:21 with a yield to maturity of 3. 5%. The price on a comparable maturity corporate bond is 103:11 with a yield to maturity of 4. 59%. What is the approximate percentage value of the credit risk of the corporate bond? A. 1. 14% B. 3. 45% C. 4. 59% D. 8. 04% 17. You buy an 8 year $1000 par value bond today that has a 6% yield and a 6% annual payment coupon. In one year promised yields have risen to 7%. Your one year holding period return was ___. A. 0. 61% B. -5. 39% C. 1. 28% D. -3. 25% 18. If the coupon rate on a bond is 4. 50% and the bond is selling at a premium, which of the following is the most likely yield to maturity on the bond?A. 4. 30% B. 4. 50% C. 5. 20% D. 5. 50% 19. All other things equal, which of the following has the longest duration? A. A 30 year bond with a 10% coupon B. A 20 year bond with a 9% coupon C. A 20 year bond with a 7% coupon D. A 10 year zero coupon bond 20. All other things equal, which of the following has the shortest duration? A. A 30 year bond with a 10% coupon B. A 20 year bond with a 9% coupon C. A 20 year bond with a 7% coupon D. A 10 year zero coupon bond 21. (Challenge question) A pension fund must pay out $1 million next year, $2 million the following year and then $3 million the year after that.If the discount rate is 8% what is the duration of this set of payments? A. 2. 00 years B. 2. 15 years C. 2. 29 years D. 2. 53 years 22. All other things equal, which of the following has the longest duration? A. A 20 year bond with a 10% coupon yielding 10% B. A 20 year bond with a 10% coupon yielding 11% C. A 20 yea r zero coupon bond yielding 10% D. A 20 year zero coupon bond yielding 11% 23. Because of convexity, when interest rates change the actual bond price will ____________ the bond price predicted by duration. A. always be higher than B. sometimes be higher than C. always be lower than D. ometimes be lower than 24. Duration is a concept that is useful in assessing a bond's _________. A. credit risk B. liquidity risk C. price volatility D. convexity risk 25. A pension fund has an average duration of its liabilities equal to 15 years. The fund is looking at 5 year maturity zero coupon bonds and 4% yield perpetuities to immunize its interest rate risk. How much of its portfolio should it allocate to the zero coupon bonds to immunize if there are no other assets funding the plan? A. 52% B. 48% C. 33% D. 25% 26. You own a bond that has a duration of 6 years. Interest rates are urrently 7% but you believe the Fed is about to increase interest rates by 25 basis points. Your predicted price cha nge on this bond is ________. A. +1. 40% B. -1. 40% C. -2. 51% D. +2. 51% 27. A bank has an average duration of its liabilities equal to 2 years. The bank's average duration of its assets is 3. 5 years. The bank's market value of equity is at risk if _______________________. A. interest rates fall B. credit spreads fall C. interest rates rise D. the price of all fixed income securities rises 28. Banks and other financial institutions can best manage interest rate risk by _____________. A. aximizing the duration of assets and minimizing the duration of liabilities B. minimizing the duration of assets and maximizing the duration of liabilities C. matching the durations of their assets and liabilities D. matching the maturities of their assets and liabilities 29. The duration of a portfolio of bonds can be calculated as _______________. A. the coupon weighted average of the durations of the individual bonds in the portfolio B. the yield weighted average of the durations of the individu al bonds in the portfolio C. the value weighed average of the durations of the individual bonds in the portfolio D. verages of the durations of the longest and shortest duration bonds in the portfolio 30. Rank the interest sensitivity of the following from most sensitive to an interest rate change to the least sensitive. I. 8% coupon, noncallable 20 year maturity, par bond II. 9% coupon, currently callable 20 year maturity, premium bond III. Zero coupon, 30 year maturity bond A. I, II, III B. II, III, I C. III, I, II D. III, II, I 31. A bank has $50 million in assets, $47 million in liabilities and $3 million in shareholders' equity. If the duration of its liabilities are 1. and the bank wants to immunize its net worth against interest rate risk and thus set the duration of equity equal to zero, it should select assets with an average duration of _________. A. 1. 22 B. 1. 50 C. 1. 60 D. 2. 00 A bond pays annual interest. Its coupon rate is 9%. Its value at maturity is $1,000. It mat ures in four years. Its yield to maturity is currently 6%. 32. The duration of this bond is _______ years. A. 2. 44 B. 3. 23 C. 3. 56 D. 4. 10 33. The modified duration of this bond is ______ years. A. 4. 00 B. 3. 56 C. 3. 36 D. 3. 05 34. A bond with a 9-year duration is worth $1,080. 0 and its yield to maturity is 8%. If the yield to maturity falls to 7. 84%, you would predict that the new value of the bond will be _________. A. $1,035 B. $1,036 C. $1,094 D. $1,124 35. When interest rates increase, the duration of a 20-year bond selling at a premium _________. A. increases B. decreases C. remains the same D. increases at first, then declines 36. Duration facilitates the comparison of bonds with differing ___________ A. default risk B. conversion ratios C. maturities D. yields to maturity 37. The historical yield spread between the AA bond and the AAA bond has been 25 basis points.Currently the spread is only 9 basis points. If you believe the spread will soon return to its historic al levels you should ________________________. A. buy the AA and short the AAA B. buy both the AA and the AAA C. buy the AAA and short the AA D. short both the AA and the AAA 38. The duration of a bond normally increases with an increase in _________. I. term-to-maturity II. yield-to-maturity. III. coupon rate A. I only B. I and II only C. II and III only D. I, II and III 39. Compute the modified duration of a 9% coupon, 3-year corporate bond with a yield to maturity of 12%. A. 2. 45 B. 2. 75 C. 2. 88 D. 3. 00 40.An 8%, 30-year bond has a yield-to-maturity of 10% and a modified duration of 8. 0 years. If the market yield drops by 15 basis points, there will be a __________ in the bond's price. A. 1. 15% decrease B. 1. 20% increase C. 1. 53% increase D. 2. 43% decrease 41. To create a portfolio with a duration of 4 years using a 5 year zero-coupon bond and a 3 year 8% annual coupon bond with a yield to maturity of 10%, one would have to invest ________ of the portfolio value in the z ero-coupon bond. A. 50% B. 55% C. 60% D. 75% 42. Which of the following set of conditions will result in a bond with the greatest price volatility?A. A high coupon and a short maturity. B. A high coupon and a long maturity. C. A low coupon and a short maturity. D. A low coupon and a long maturity. 43. An investor who expects declining interest rates would maximize their capital gain by purchasing a bond that has a ___ coupon and a ___ term to maturity. A. low; long B. high; short C. high; long D. zero; long 44. A zero coupon bond is selling at a deep discount price of $430. 00. It matures in 13 years. If the yield to maturity of the bond is 6. 7%, what is the duration of the bond? A. 6. 7 years B. 8. 0 years C. 10 years D. 13 years 45.Convexity implies that duration predictions _______. I. underestimate the % increase in bond price when the yield falls II. underestimate the % decrease in bond price when the yield rises III. overestimates the % increase in bond price when the yield f alls IV. overestimates the % decrease in bond price when the yield rises A. I and III only B. II and IV only C. I and IV only D. II and III only 1. D2. B3. A4. C5. D6. B7. B8. D9. A10. A11. A12. D13. A14. A15. C16. A17. A18. A19. A20. D21. C22. C23. A24. C25. A27. C28. C29. C30. C31. A32. C33. C34. C35. B36. C37. C38. A39. A40. B41. B42. D43. D44. D45. C