Introspection in A Complicated Kindness and The Catcher in...

Miriam Toews’ A Complicated Kindness and J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye are two novels in which characters reflect on their attitudes and experiences as a source of emotional growth and maturity. Salinger and Toews show the importance of this reflection through the evolution of their characters’ – Holden Caulfield and Nomi Nickel – similar attitudes towards their schools, communities, and lives. Though Nomi and Holden both do poorly in school for various reasons, Nomi overcomes her obstacles by working to identify the source of them. Both characters also resent their communities because of the hypocrisy found within them. However, Nomi manages to find good within the East Village through self-reflection, while Holden completely†¦show more content†¦Though Nomi escapes these negative feelings using drugs and her imagination, she expresses to her guidance counsellor that she feels a need to change her views on the educational system a nd learn to love it. The novel’s convoluted plotline does not show step-by-step, how Nomi goes about changing her attitudes. However, Nomi engaging her environment in deeper thought is evidenced in her coming to realize that she does poorly in school because she is: â€Å"already anticipating failure.†(Toews 2) With this new insight, Nomi writes her story as an assignment for submission to Mr. Quiring as an attempt to gain his approval and achieve academic success. A disparate situation is presented to readers in The Catcher in the Rye. Early in the novel, Holden expresses the reason for his difficulties in school as his being: â€Å"always surrounded by phonies.†(Salinger 13) Holden is correct; he is completely incapable of relating to his peers. However he takes no time to consider potential solutions to his problem. During his conversation with Mr. Spencer, Holden communicates that he deals with his troubles by simply quitting; putting minimal effort into academics and socialization. Since Holden never addresses his emotions directly, he fails to realize

10 Effects of Smoking in Health Free Essays

10 Effects of Smoking in Health Are you aware about effects of smoking habit? Scientific studies reveal that smoking causes short-term as well as long-term effects on health. American Lung Association says smoking affects around 9 million people in U. S alone, and it causes the death of approximately 450,000 individuals per year. We will write a custom essay sample on 10 Effects of Smoking in Health or any similar topic only for you Order Now Cancer is a common serious threat of smoking. It also causes several aesthetic problems, cardiovascular problems, respiratory problems and reproductive health problems. This article discusses about various negative effects of smoking. 1. Respiratory Health Effects – Tobacco contains several toxic substances that damage our lungs and other respiratory organ while inhaling. It seriously affects larynx and trachea which in turn result in the permanent killing of lungs. Long-term smoking causes harsh side effects like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. 2. Cardiovascular Health Effects – Smoking causes the narrowing of blood vessels and arteries by depositing several toxic substances. This affects their normal functioning, and causes high blood pressure. Prolonged smoking gradually leads to nerve problems blood clots, which may result in heart attacks or strokes. 3. Vision Health Effects – Smoking causes vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts. Researches show that long-term smoking causes incurable vision problems that may even result in blindness. 4. Reproductive Health Effects – Smoking causes less production of estrogen  hormone that is linked to infertility in women. Premature birth, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), under weight problems, and early menopause are common reproductive effects in women. Long-term smoking causes impotency in men. 5. Skin Health Effects – Premature aging, yellowish skin and wrinkles are commonly found side effects of smoking. Skin damage is directly linked to smoking since it restricts the adequate blood flow in skin. Majority of addicted smokers lose their appetite and reduce the intake of food. Inadequate nutrition and food habits result in serious health effects on skin. 6. Psychological Effects – smoking has addictive side effects since it contains Nicotine. Majority of smokers believe that smoking makes them feel relief. However, truth is that smoking causes several addictive problems, which may result in depression and anxiety. 7. Digestion Problems – Smoking causes heartburn problems, liver damage, reduced appetite, crohn’s disease and ulcers. Long-term smoking results in the damage of esophagus, and that causes acid reflux heart-burn problems. Crohn’s disease is a severe intestine disease that causes diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc. 8. Respiratory Alignments – Health and Human Services of U. S reveals that smokers are more prone to respiratory alignments like flu, pneumonia, cold, bronchitis, etc. They also take longer recovery time compared to normal persons. 9. Athletic Performance Issues – Smoking affects the physical fitness of an individual. Long-term smokers are more prone to injuries and accidents. Smokers have reduced capacity to generate sufficient muscle cell collagen to generate muscles. 10. Other Effects – Smoking causes awful body odor and bad breath as well. Since smokers have reduced smell sense, they may not consider it as an issue. There are about 5 million people in the world die in each year from the effects of smoking. Smoking is an unnecessary health hazard that causes serious effects. Quitting this habit is not easy. However, when you quit smoking you not only save your health but also our environment! How to cite 10 Effects of Smoking in Health, Essay examples

Diversity in the Workplace Of Breaking the Glass Ceiling †Free Sample

Question: Discuss about the Diversity in the Workplace Of Breaking the Glass Ceiling. Answer: Introduction Human resource management plays a crucial role in the success of any organization. Managing human resources effectively involves efficient recruitment of employees, fair compensation of these employees, managing employee performance, managing diversity in the business and ensuring employee satisfaction (Hendry, 2012). Workplace diversity refers to a variety of different people that work together in the same organization. This diversity encompasses gender, ethnic group, age, personality and even educational background. Diversity in a workplace is leading issue that has been gaining importance lately. This is because organizations are recognizing the need for diversity among human resources of an organization (Madsen Nielsen, 2017). Increasing globalization has created a free flow of human resources from one part of the world to another. However, this flow of employees comes at an expense. This report throws light on various advantages associated with a diversified workforce in an organization. At the same time, there are various challenges that managers face while ensuring effectiveness of a diverse team. Strategies to ensure competent coordination within a team and overcoming problems of a diverse workforce have also been highlighted in this report. Why diversity There are various reasons behind organizations shifting focus towards enhancing diversity in the workplace. A diverse workforce has been known to deliver better results and demonstrate improved performance in the longer run (Barak, 2016). Various advantages associated with a diverse workforce are as below: Exposure Working with people coming from different cultural and educational backgrounds gives employees an exposure to the other culture. This exposure enhances their growth as an employee and helps them widen their horizons (Hunt, Layton Prince, 2015). In the current scenario of increasing globalization, this exposure plays a vital role in helping employees break geographical barriers and work in different parts of the world. Learning When a diverse workforce comes together, every employee learns something from the other. This is because people coming from different backgrounds have varied working styles. This includes different leadership styles, communication styles and conflict resolution styles. Working with different people therefore involves improved learning of employees and in turn enhances the entire team performance. Organization branding A diverse workforce also positively impacts the organizations positioning in the minds of its stakeholders. It depicts that the organization supports equality in unemployment and has a wider presence in the market. Such a workplace atmosphere reflects positively on the organization and helps in attracting competent recruits from across the globe. Improved effectiveness When different people with varied backgrounds come together and work towards a single goal, it is likely that the effectiveness of the team would be much higher (Roberson, Ryan Ragins, 2017). The team would be able to look at the same problem from different perspectives and this in turn would widen their horizons about the same. Challenges of a diverse workforce There are various challenges associated with a diverse workforce. These challenges arise as a result of a varied group of people working together who may or may not have sufficient knowledge about each other. The problems associated or the challenges faced by employees working in a diverse team are as below: Lack of Coordination The first major issue associated with a diverse team is that employees feel a lack of coordination among each other since they come from different backgrounds. Every employee has a different style of work and it is difficult to achieve coordination among all the employees (Festing Schafer, 2014). Therefore it makes it difficult for the team to remain coordinated. Language barrier Another challenge faced by a diverse team especially including people coming from different geographical areas is that of a rather solid language barrier. This language barriers makes it difficult for people to communicate in an efficient manner leading to reduced effectiveness of the team. Language barriers also adversely impacts coordination in the group making it difficult for the team members to work together. Increased cost of training Working with a group of diverse people requires organizations to provide additional training to the employees in order to understand different cultures, different perspectives and establish common channels of communication within the team. This increases the overall cost incurred by an organization on the training of employees. Glass ceiling in the workplace Glass ceiling problem in any organization refers to the drawback faced by women or other minority groups in the workplace which slows their growth in the organizational system. These barriers to growth are often unacknowledged. The major reason behind these barriers are an implicit prejudice on the basis of age, ethnicity, caste, sex or religion (Cook Glass, 2014). Inequality in the workplace is illegal but is often practiced in most organizations across the globe. This inequality may be experienced through a genuine lack of growth opportunities within the firm. These obstacles hamper growth and act as a driver for demotivation among grieved employees. There are various organizations that create a clear distinction between men and women despite having similar qualifications (Lynch, 2017). There are various ways in which glass ceiling can manifest in the workplace. Some of these ways are as listed below: Sexual harassment Harassing women verbally or physically are both approaches to creating a glass ceiling. Organizational policies must include sexual harassment as a zero tolerant practice in the business. Cultural jokes Cultural jokes cracked in an organizational setting with an intention to insult or make fun of any minority group working in the organization is an evident way of manifesting the glass ceiling in the business. Lack of sensitivity Glass ceiling can also be created by demonstrating a lack of sensitivity towards women or any minority group in the business (Ezzedeen, Budworth Baker, 2015). This insensitivity can be reflected in the form of not giving flexibility of work during a womens menstrual cycle or allowing her enough time to take care of a family. Prejudice Prejudice can be seen in workplaces when men with similar qualifications as women are promoted faster than women. This can be seen in any industry including hospitality, manufacturing or even medicine. Resistance to women leadership Certain organizations show a resistance towards giving a leadership role to women. This could be because thetop management believes that a women is incapable of a leadership role or they believe that other employees would demonstrate resistance in working beneath a female leader. Either way this resistance is a glass ceiling which is observed in many organizations. Breaking the glass ceiling Despite the fact that we continue to talk about gender equality and equal rights to both men and women, it is disappointing that our glass ceilings still remain rock solid. In 2016, only 16.3% of leadership roles were held by women. Globally, in 2015, women earned 77% of what men earned. These statistics are a reflection of the inequality and the prejudice that a women is encountered with on a regular basis. Breaking the glass ceiling is the need of the hour and it is imperative that this generation of working class puts efforts in ensuring an equal working environment for both men and women (Betrand Black, 2015). Creating an atmosphere of support Themanagement of the organization must instil policies that allow women to flexibly cater to their responsibilities at home and at work place. Lead by example The value system held by the topmanagement of the organization flows to the bottom. It is therefore important that the leaders of the business lead by example and put efforts in breaking the glass ceiling by creating an atmosphere of equal rights and opportunities of growth. Take a stand Besides the efforts put in my the seniors of the business, women and other minorities of the organization who are directly affected by the glass ceiling must also put efforts in ensuring that they take a strong stand for breaking the glass ceiling (Newman, 2016). They must voice their opinion, demonstrate their hard work, build a strong network and establish open channels of communication in order to do their bit in fighting for their rights in the business. Recommendations for building a diverse organization Inclusivity Inclusivity of an organization is the degree to which the organization is open to anyone who can perform the job regardless of differences in their race, age, gender or sexual orientation. Organizations must work towards become more inclusive by enhancing pluralism and integration of people (Luthans Doh, 2018). Organizations must also focus on eradicating prejudice and discrimination from the very core in the workplace. Affirmative action This action involves hiring a diverse workforce, creating an atmosphere of equality and taking strict actions against those who are creating a glass ceiling within the business. Valuing diversity Organizations must value diversity by conducting training sessions and enhancing employee knowledge about different cultures. Managing diversity This is a comprehensive approach which requires organizations to create an environment where diversity is respected and everyone is given an equal opportunity of growth and development. 360 degree Feedback and open communication Diversity can also be maintained in the organization by creating a 360 degree feedback system where every employee is provided a feedback from his or her peers, seniors as well as juniors (Tee Ahmed, 2014). This would help people in addressing the issue of glass ceiling and diversity in the workplace would be maintained. Trainings Trainings must be given to employees which highlight different cultures, working styles and leadership styles of people coming from different cultures. These trainings would assist people in fostering a genuine respect and deeper understanding of each other. Conclusion Organizational diversity refers to a varied group of people coming from different parts and sections of the society in the same organization. A diverse workplace setting is highly beneficial for an organization as it reflects positively on the organization as well as provides its employees opportunity for advanced learning and growth. Creating a diverse organization is not an easy process and does not happen overnight. It requires consistent efforts in creating coordination and establishing effective communication channels within employees coming from varied backgrounds (Kumar, 2015). Despite the increasing acceptance and presence of diverse organizations, glass ceiling still continues to affect various minority groups within the business especially women. These glass ceilings are created by unethical, illegal and often unacknowledged barrier that adversely impacts the growth and advancement of these groups within the business. These glass ceilings exist because of pre-existing prejudices, lack of sensitivity and an evident resistance towards growth of these minorities. Given the advancement of globalization and an evidently increasing diversity in the organizations, it is high time that efforts are put in the right direction to break these glass ceilings. This can be achieved by respecting and valuing diversity in the workplace, adopting zero tolerance policy for inequality in the system and ensuring that women and other minorities in the workplace are given a fair platform to grow, learn and address grievances through open communication. References Barak, M. E. M. (2016).Managing diversity: Toward a globally inclusive workplace. Sage Publications. Bertrand, M. Black, S, (2015). Breaking the glass ceiling. SSRN. Chicago. Cook, A., Glass, C. (2014). Above the glass ceiling: When are women and racial/ethnic minorities promoted to CEO?Strategic Management Journal,35(7), 1080-1089. Ezzedeen, S. R., Budworth, M. H., Baker, S. D. (2015). The glass ceiling and executive careers: Still an issue for pre-career women.Journal of Career Development,42(5), 355-369. Festing, M., Schafer, L. (2014). Generational challenges to talent management: A framework for talent retention based on the psychological-contract perspective.Journal of World Business,49(2), 262-271. Hendry, C. (2012).Human resource management. Routledge. United Kingdom. Hunt, V., Layton, D., Prince, S. (2015). Diversity matters.McKinsey Company,1, 15-29. Kumar, G. K. (2015). Diversity in workplace: Benefits, challenges and solutions.International Journal of Physical and Social Sciences,5(7), 149-164. Luthans, F., Doh, J. P. (2018).International management: Culture, strategy, and behavior. McGraw-Hill. Lynch, F. R. (2017).The diversity machine: The drive to change the white male workplace. Routledge. Madsen, M. B., Nielsen, V. L. (2017). Does Gender Diversity in the Workplace Affect Job Satisfaction and Turnover Intentions?International Public Management Review,1(18), 77-115. Newman, B. J. (2016). Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Local Gender?Based Earnings Inequality and Women's Belief in the American Dream.American Journal of Political Science,60(4), 1006-1025. Roberson, Q., Ryan, A. M., Ragins, B. R. (2017). The evolution and future of diversity at work.Journal of Applied Psychology,102(3), 483. Tee, D. D., Ahmed, P. K. (2014). 360 degree feedback: an integrative framework for learning and assessment.Teaching in Higher Education,19(6), 579-591.

Why You Really Need Academic Writing Service

In their academic career, it is essential for every student to complete their assignments but sometimes all the assignments are not easy and you have to take the help from the academic writing services. When you are taking the services of experts, the assignments are completed in a given time frame. The professionals write the formal writing with any styles according to the requirements of students. To get good marks: In an academic life, grades really matter otherwise you cannot move forward towards your next semester. If the academic writing service is used by different students then their grades can be easily improved. The grades depend on the content of the writing and if the content is written by the expert people like then the grades will be outstanding. So, you might need the help of professionals so the probability to get an A grade arises as assignments contribute to the specific percentage of total marks. Understand your needs: You need the services of expert people because they know and understand your needs. These people have expert skills and are toppers in their Universities so they better understand your requirements and needs. They also know the questions, answers and the way it must be written when the student says do my assignment to them. To save energy and time: Students face a lot of pressure when all subject assignments must be completed within a short time frame. So is the best option to choose as it saves the time and energy of students. When a time given is short students are unable to gather the data and the required information. Students can spend their time and energy on other subject assignments so that the one assignment can be done in a better way. To get an original writing: If students want to get writing, which is original then they must take the help from the academic writing services. The expert people work for these services provide a content which is free of plagiarism and grammatical mistakes. These people don’t write any copied material in different assignments. So, it is essential to take the services of these professionals. Service available at reasonable cost: The service of writing is available at reasonable cost so students can easily avail these types of services. Everybody knows that students cannot afford the expensive services of academic writing, but these are the services which students can avail in their pocket money. These services also give different discount offers so that the students can avail this opportunity more. Provide services on any topic: The academic writing service should be needed because you are not expert enough to write on any topic. Some students are expert in some subjects, but they are not expert enough to write on all subjects. So, by choosing these services, the students can get the assignments related to the topic they are unable to write. To get assistance in already written content: Some students write their assignments by own and they only need an assistance that whether their writing should be accurate or not. They can take these services as well because these expert people in can edit the existing assignments and projects. These professionals are helping the students in different areas like management, clinical and social sciences etc. So the students from any field of study can take help from the paper writing service. To avoid deadline, miss of assignments: If students want to avoid any deadline miss of assignments then they should these services. These services have professionals who are ready to write within the deadline time period. If the deadlines are missed then the marks are automatically deducted by the professors of colleges and Universities. So, avoid getting fewer marks and avail the services of the best writing like . Final Thought: So, that’s why the students must take the services related to writing of academics. In this way, they can save their energy, time and get a high-quality content related to different assignments and projects. The professors impress from the student who writes the formal writing and provide the assignments and projects within the given time period.

Connections and Differences in a Compare and Contrast Research Paper

Connections and Differences in a Compare and Contrast Research Paper Connections and Differences in a Compare and Contrast Research Paper When you are told to write a compare and contrast paper, you have to center on the similarities, connections and differences. Many people do make the mistake of centering on just one of this, and this may be their undoing as the research paper will not be a complete one. When you are told to compare and contrast, it means you must point out the similarities and distinctive features. There is one core value you must not miss, and this is the fact that you should bring in new connections and differences. Now, when you are given such essay, the first thing to do is to decipher whether you are told to write mainly on the connections, or on the differences or even on both of them. This is where your passing or failing the test starts. You have to start by asking yourself whether you really have enough information about the two items you have been instructed to compare and contrast. Never write the paper with wrong information. Only when you ascertain the level of knowledge you have about them, then you decide whether you should go for more research. The next question to ask is whether these two things are really similar or different in any way. When you answer these questions affirmatively, then it is time to organize your paper, and there are procedures of organizing your compare and contrast writing. You can start by gathering all information about one of the items in one place. When you do, you can now use either the connections or differences as the transition word. There are two main methods of doing this. You can write with the block divided format or the alternating point to point method. The block method means evaluating an entire item and comparing it to the other item in its entirety. This will give you two different papers, one centering on the similarities and the other on differences. To achieve success with this method you have to start with a very clear introduction and then the body that details the similarities and differences. Here, the two different sections must be linked with a clear transition too. The paper is concluded with a summery and an analysis of the relationships you have noticed between the items. The next method is the point to point method. Here, you take things with more details. You bring out a point of similarity and difference between the two items and treat it separately before going for another point. Here, you also have to start with introductions, and then link everything with a good transition. The thesis must answer the question of what happens in the long run. One thing you must imbibe here is to organize your points in a logical manner and to offer the relationships noticed in a summery. Here, you must not make blanket statements. Concentrate on particular aspects. You can start by writing about similarity and difference in appearance. After this, you can move to utility and purpose. Continue with all the other attributes of the items. Whichever method you want to use, you can go about it by engaging in researching, listing of the similarities and differences, mapping out the most significant points, organizing the essay scope and outline, bringing in the details of the text and editing your work. Feel free to buy a research paper online from our highly qualified writers. You will get a professionally custom academic paper written in a strict accordance with your specifications.

3rd Grade Science Fair Projects

3rd Grade Science Fair Projects The 3rd grade may be the first time students are introduced to science fair projects. Children ask questions from a young age, but this is a great time to begin to apply the scientific method. Introduction to 3rd Grade Science Fair Projects 3rd grade is a great time to answer what happens if... or which is better...  questions. In general, elementary school students are exploring the world around them and learning how things work. The key to a great science fair  project at the 3rd-grade level is finding a topic that the student finds interesting. Usually, a teacher or parent is needed  to help plan the project and offer guidance with a report or poster. Some students may want to make models or perform demonstrations that illustrate scientific concepts. 3rd Grade Science Fair Project Ideas Here are some project ideas appropriate for 3rd grade: Do cut flowers last longer if you put them in warm water or in cold water? You can test how effectively flowers are drinking water by adding food coloring. Youll get the best results with white cut flowers, such as carnations. Do flowers drink warm water faster, slower, or at the same rate as cold water?Does the color of your clothing affect how hot or cold you feel when youre outside in the sunlight? Explain your results. This project is easiest if you compare solid colors, such as black and white t-shirts.Do all students in the class have the same size hands and feet as each other? Trace outlines of hands and feet and compare them. Do taller students have larger hands/feet or does height not seem to matter?How much does the temperature have to change for you to feel a difference? Does it matter whether its air or water? You can try this with your hand, a glass, a thermometer, and tap water of different temperatures.Are waterproof mascaras really waterproof? Put some mascara on a sh eet of paper and rinse it with water. What happens? Do 8-hour lipsticks really keep their color that long? Do clothes take the same length of time to dry if you add a dryer sheet or fabric softener to the load?Which melts faster: ice cream or ice milk? Can you figure out why this might happen? You can compare other frozen treats, such as frozen yogurt and sorbet.Do frozen candles burn at the same rate as candles that were stored at room temperature? Ideally, compare candles that are identical in every way except their starting temperature.Research what dryer sheets do. Can people tell the difference between a load of laundry that used dryer sheets and one that didnt use them? If one type of laundry was preferred over the other, what was the reason? Ideas might be scent, softness, and the amount of static.Do all types of bread grow the same types of mold? A related project would compare types of mold that grow on cheese or other food. Keep in mind mold grows quickly on bread, but might grow more slowly on other food. Use a magnifying glass to make it easier to tell the types of mold apart. Do raw eggs and hard-boiled eggs spin the same length of time/number of times? What type of liquid will rust a nail the quickest? You could try water, orange juice, milk, vinegar, peroxide, and other common household liquids.Does light affect how fast foods spoil?Can you tell from todays clouds what tomorrows weather will be? Tips for Success Choose a project that wont take too much time to complete. Performing an experiment or making a model often takes longer than one expects, and its better to have extra time than to run out at the last minute.Expect a 3rd-grade project to require adult supervision or help. This doesnt mean an adult should do the project for a child, but an older sibling, parent, guardian, or teacher can help guide the project, offer suggestions, and be supportive.Select an idea that uses materials you can actually find. Some project ideas might look great on paper, but be difficult to perform if the supplies are unavailable.

Conclusion Chapter Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Conclusion Chapter - Dissertation Example Meanwhile, gender and grade level were found to have a significant relationship with reading achievement, while gender and VARK7G learning styles in turn correlated with the dependent variables. RAAF and FT scores were also found to differ greatly based on gender. Grade and gender were found to be significant factors, especially with respect to reading achievement. Meanwhile, gender and multi-single learning styles were likewise found to have a significant relationship. Gender was also found to affect FT and RAAF scores. While males were found to be affected greatly by grades and VARK7G categories, the same could not be said for their female counterparts. Their learning styles in RAAF were also less error-prone, and particular learning styles were said to be more or less effective for males than females. All in all, learning styles are said to differ not only based on one’s gender, but also on age and grade level – which is why teachers need to vary their lesson plans a ccording to these considerations. Research Question 3 aimed to determine if there are significant differences between males and females in terms of learning style. The study found that at least 1.6% of the variance in learning styles is due to gender, and it has also been observed that males and females alike tend to prefer multi-learning style. All in all, the gender-based differences in learning style preference are marginal at best, with both genders choosing the quad and aural styles as their most and least preferred learning styles, respectively. Research Question 4 asks the following: In Arabic reading classes, do teaching strategies significantly affect reading achievement among students? The TRSQ is divided into subscales referring to reading instruction (RI), reading resources and types of text (RR), reading activities and behaviour (RA), development of

Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 7

Research Paper Example Free radius is configured according to requirements based on functions. On the internet world, FreeRadius is most reliable solution for cyber crimes as it has multiple ways of solution against cyber crimes. Most significant use of Free Radius as a security program is for the specialized Wi Fi networks. FreeRadius users do not require any hardware or specific interface; instead they only need to have user name and password registered by the FreeRadious. In a company, employees use the certificates of given access for the company’s database and network. Time and cost are important constraints in securing the company’s network. Cost includes the purchase of hardware and other expenses of securing the network. FreeRadius is free software, which does not require an additional cost. It produces its own security certificates and compatible for all protocols used (Urpi, 13). Plenty of Linux flavor exist there and provide ways to take control of the PCs. Some of the Linux distributions are designed for easier of use of beginners. Distribution is fashioned around the Linux Kernel that varies in its functions and forms. Linux Kernel is portable that runs on the array of CPU and other devices including the Compaq iPAQ, IBM S390 and IBM Linux (Sterling, 67). Creation of Linux distribution is an intimidating task for a scratch product. Process of creation of Linux distribution involves a tool chain for a root file system and also a buildup of the Kernel. Building the proper tools requires the follow up of the simple steps (Sally). Most of IT professionals argue that Ubuntu is a top distribution in Linux. Even those who use other than Ubuntu call it a powerful distribution as things work correctly. Fedora is considered the alternative of the Ubuntu as Red Hat community always prioritized the server based features than desktop enhancements. Linux Mint shares many features of Debian and Ubuntu distributions. Linux Mint is another fine option for the Linux

Identify the characteristics beliefs and practises associated with Krishna Essay Example for Free

Identify the characteristics beliefs and practises associated with Krishna Essay And what is the significance for a devotee of Krishna. Krishna is believed to be Vishnus eight incarnations. Vishnu represents the preserver status in the Trimurti but is more frequently appreciated in his incarnation as Krishna. Krishna appears in many mythological stories but is most famously remembered for his part in the Bhagvad Gita. This scripture is believed to have been spoken by Krishna himself. Krishna is seen as a king and a conqueror of demons but his followers appear particularly fond of his childhood and youth. His love affair with the beautiful cowherdess, Radha is immensely popular with his followers. In many Indian temples dedicated to Krishna, his followers visit (Darshan) his images and present water for washing, drinking, clothes, flowers, incense and offer praise during their puja. Chanting and singing the Hare Krishna mantra is a very popular activity found in temples. The maha-mantra is a transcendental sound vibration which awakens love of God in the heart and mind. As with all other activities, music is considered a sacred offering to God. Murtis of Krishna are ritually installed temples, as it is believed that it is actually full of divine spirit of Krishna. Krishnas pictures often portray him as the young flute player, surrounded by cows, teasing the gopi girls, or occasionally as the mischievous friend and even as the charioteer who accompanies Arjuna. These different images illsurate the different forms of relations a Hindu can have with god, either as best friend, a lover or mischievous son. To achieve an understanding of Krishna it important to be aware of the events in the Bhagvad Gita. Arjuna is preparing for a battle in which he will be fighting against his own members of the family. He feels that this is morally wrong and has conversation with his charioteer. His charioteer, Krishna is the supreme lord in disguise. It is here; Krishna explains the path to self liberation and to discovering the inner atman. Krishna points out that the soul does not die in battle, but moves into a new one. The soul can not be pierced, it can not be parched, it can not be wetted, it is everwhere, immovable He reminds Arjuna of his dharma and the effects of Karma. Krishna goes further on to state that is not action itself that should be avoided but the results of it. One should not think of particular rewards for their actions but offer selflessly to the Lord. This is the function of Karma yoga. Having taught this he goes onto mentioning different paths such as jnana and yoga and presentating the need for reaching a state of samadhi through knowledge and devotion. The festival calendar varies region to region throughout India. The festival to celebrate the birth of Krishna is held between August and September and is called Janammastami. The bhagvad Purana which focuses on how to be yogi is often read out. Krishna unlike some of the other supreme deities, acknowledged that there were those who were marginalized such as the low caste and women and therefore highlighted that there were many different paths for each Hindu to reach liberation in his own way. Krishna is encompasses the perfect balance between performing his dharma in such a way that good karma is continually repeated. Through performing jnana and bhakti yoga, a devotee can offer selfless acts, which will be received with Krishnas grace and blessings. Therefore Krishnas love for Radha is the perfect example for any Hindu to achieve a harmonious union with the Lord and achieve moksha.

GPS Technology Essays -- essays research papers fc

Physics Assignment Global Positioning System GPS, of the Global Positioning System, is a system of satellites that orbit the earth above us that send signals continuously to ground stations that monitor and control GPS operations. GPS signals can be detected by GPS receivers, which by itself can calculate the location of the receiver by around ten metres. Such the accuracy and reliability of the GPS system that its is a required item for a long trip without and contact with humans. The GPS system was originally intended for military use; its use was to track and detect ships and submarines by the US military in the 1960s. As time moved on, and as the development progressed, its use changed, from only a military use to a more civilian use. When the GPS system finally became operational in the 1990s, it has proven itself to be a very sophisticated tool, being very reliable, as shown by the usage of the GPS system by both military and civilians. GPS worked by each satellite that emitted a unique radio wave also known as the ‘Pseudo Random code’, which is basically a series of random radio signals; so random, that there is absolutely no chance that thre would be a matching signal. The signals, which contain the time and the position of the satellite, are then compared by the GPS receiver from four satellites. Considering how extraordinarily sophisticated the technology is, the operating principle of GPS is remarkably simple. Each satellite continuously broadcasts a digital r...

Management of Pt.Asuransi Jiwasraya

INTI College Indonesia| Organization and Management| PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya| | Jessica Khou, Afifa Jindan, Jocelyn Halim| 3/8/2013| Mr. Jonny Wiguna Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No. 34, Jakarta Pusat 10120, Indonesia 8 March 2013 Dear Mr. Jonny Wiguna, Presented to the commissary of this organization, this is a managerial report for the period of 2012-2013. As requested in a meeting conducted on February 2013, this is a report of the managerial status of this organization as observed during the present year.This report consists of matters regarding the management theory used to conduct the business, the environment surrounding the organization and inside the organization itself, defining the structure of the organization's employees as well as their determined tasks as well as the regulation of activities in the organization. Also discussed in this report are the management strategies currently applied by the organization and what is observed to be motivating for the employees in the organizati on.Following all the observed and described matter, this report also includes several suggestions that, as the writer of this report believe, will be beneficial in terms of the optimization of performance of human capital and allocation of resources. ______________________ (Claire Afifa Halim) 8 March 2013 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The report provides an analysis of the management of the PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya. It addresses the issues related to the current management system and provides an information of how the company is in relation to its environment.The report also consists of recommendation regarding the improvement of the current management system in order for the company to reach its current goal. Analysis is completed by observing the activities and achievements of the company in the latest years of its business. To find out the general management form of the company, identification of the theory that most resembles the current management system is conducted. As a result of the obs ervations, it can be summarized that the company has an overall supporting environment for its business.The model of management used closely resembles Max Weber’s management theory and therefore the company’s structure and jobs are clearly defined and allows the company to be developing in its professionalism. PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya has also applied good motivational   methods that allow it to create good relationships between the employees of the company. However, as observed by the writer of this report, the growth of the company is not at its maximum potential.Several factors that is found to be holding the company back are the lack of promotional effort, loss of flexibility (initiative) and personal motivation of the employees due to the current management system used, inability to utilize technology effectively, limitation of growth space because of the limitation of target market and the fact that the company has not yet responded to one of the major insurance need of Indonesian. Recommendations made for the company thus include: 1. To create a syariah based insurance service for the Muslim majority of Indonesians 2.Focus more on each individual employee to develop the quality of workforce 3. Use technology in its effort to market the product 4. Increase the budget allocated for promotion and increase the frequency of promotion such as through the use of billboard, magazines and online advertisements 5. Become more globalized to reach their long-term organizational goal of being recognized globally TABLE OF CONTENT 0. 1 Introductions†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 1 0. Company Backgrounds†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 2 0. 3 Management Theory†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 3 0. 4 Company Environment†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 4 0. 5 Organizational Structures†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 0. 6 Motivation†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 0. 7 Strategic Management†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ . 8 Conclusion and Recommendation†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 0. 9 List of References†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 0. 1   INTRODUCTION 1. 1 Authorization This report is made in order to give further feedback for the company called PT. Asuransi JIwasraya. 1. 2 Limitations Because we don’t have a chance to visi t 1. 3 Scope of Report This report will cover several detail points, such as management theory that been use by PT.Asuransi Jiwasraya, the company’s environment, it’s also show the organization structure inside PT. Asuransi JIwasraya with their job description, and we also going to explain about the motivation inside the company, and the strategic management process that have been use by the company, we also included our recommendation to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of company management system. 0. 2   COMPANY’S   BACKGROUND Pt. Asuransi Jiwasraya is a life insurance company that has been established since the year 1859. The motto of the company is â€Å"secure your life†.PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya's vision is to â€Å"become a trusted and preferred company to provide a solution for insurance needs and financial planning. â€Å"(http://www. jiwasraya. co. id/static. php? cat_id=1&id=8&lang=id) It focuses on providing life insurance for customer and helping customer make financial plans in accordance to the developing environment where making financial decisions become more challenging. The company is owned by the governments and is a trustworthy company that has been a preferred insurance provider by several big companies.Although it is already big itself, the company faces competition and is trying to become one of the five top insurance company in Indonesia and even tackles competition from the global market. To do this the company focus es on improving the effectiveness and the efficiency of the work by improving the quality of workforce, technology and by trying to reach segments that have not yet been reached previously. New products are always developed in order to meet the ever-changing needs of customers. PT.Asuransi Jiwasraya develops its professionalism in the business and has currently won several awards including a Superbrand award for the category of Consumer's Favorite Brand. Other than that it has also won a World Finance Award for the second time in the year of 2011. In all its business efforts, the organization builds good relationship with both the employees and the society in general through social activities. The company's subdisiaries include: PT. Stannia Binekajasa and Koperasi Karyawan Jiwasraya. 0. 3   MANAGEMENT THEORYThe management theory that have been used by PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya, as observed, can be identified as   Max Weber's theory of management. The management theory of Max Weber is made in the early year of 1900, this management theory are based on the theory of authority structures and relations is based on an ideal type of organization Weber called a (bureaucracy). The bureaucracy that Weber have make should have a division of labor, authority hierarchy, formal selection, formal rules and regulations, impersonality, and career orientation. The goal of weber making his scientific management theory is to make the work activities can be done in the large group. PT. Asuransi jiwasraya is a quite large group. Thus, it uses Weber management theory because allows this company running their business more effectively and more efficiently. PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya encourage workers   to work according to the procedure that the company has made, as evidently shown in the clear roles of several department that are specified in its website. The company has made a structure of work for individual departments so as to increase efficacy and efficiency and reduce redundan t effort on issues.Each worker can focus on the task assigned specially to them, so that the workers can work well to satisfy the customers' needs and wants. PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya can be said to have a division of labor as tasks are spread out among the workers. PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya also have a formal selection in selecting people to work in their company, they selected the people based on their technical qualifications. This is because PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya want their workers to be professionals in their scope of work and have the integrity and competence in all the work especially in the field of insurance and financial planning.PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya also have   formal rules and regulation, they have the   standard operating procedure that is clear to all the unit of work, all the workers also have to provisions a minimum level of health of the company (RBC), and all the workers have to listen to the customers, identify, meet and even exceed the customers’ needs as well as anticipating the customers' needs in the future. The workers are also expected to adjust according to the customer’s expectations. PT.Asuransi Jiwasraya also have career orientations where managers are career professionals not owners of units that they manage, sot   in this company the managers make sure that the workers work well to satisfy the customers' needs and wants but the managers is not the owners of what they manage. In PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya the owners are the shareholders. So because of that PT Asuransi Jiwasraya are using the management theory’s of Max Weber because PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya has fulfilled the bureaucracy of Max Weber. The Max Weber's theory is favorable to the company because it allows the company to focus its effort on its clear formal goals.Government's company are also prone to be said as full of corruption, collusion and nepotism; Max Weber's theory of management as a model used by PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya can reduce the chance o f the issues as employees are appointed based on their performance and competence instead of their favorability among the workers. 0. 4   COMPANY’S ENVIRONMENT Environment are divided into two:   micro and macro. According to businessdictionary. com, micro environment is defined as â€Å"factors or elements in an organization's immediate area of operations that affect its performance and decision-making freedom† (http://www. usinessdictionary. com/definition/microenvironment. html) micro enviroment consist of   customers, suppliers, competitors, and pressure groups. 1. Customer. PT . Asuransi Jiwasraya is customer’s oriented there for customer’s are of   significantly   high  importance  to the company. Thus, all the products develop by Jiwasraya is base on specific segmentation of its customer’s the products that are available until now are tailored to meet the needs of these groups of customers: a. Averse investor (example product: JS Plan Dollar) b.Adult with children (example product: Dana Multiproteksi Plus c. People in general (example: Asuransi Kecelakaan Diri) d. Organizations(example porduct: Asuransi Kesehatan) e. Old people (example porduct: Jaminan Hari Tua f. Students (example porduct:JS Prestasi) g. Workers (example porduct: Dana Fleksibel) 2. Suppliers. Managers   must ensure that the daily requirement (supplies) that is needed by the company are sets in the lowest price, and the manager have to ensure that the suppliers delivers the needed inputs right on time.So the managers of PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya have to make sure that all the things that the company needs to keep the company running has been fulfilled by the suppliers, because suppliers not only have to cover up the equipment for the company, also provide the financial and labor inputs, so to keep the performance of PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya , the managers of PT. Asuransi jiwasraya   have to choose   the suppliers wisely, because supplie rs is one of the important things to keep the performance of the company. 3. Competitors.In all types of organizations, profit or non-profit have competitors, and managers cannot afford to ignore the competitors. PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya   also have many competitors, and they can’t change that, but they can avoid the competitors by giving better performance to the customers. Competitors can be a positive influence or a negative influence. A healthy competition encourages businesses to pursue the fulfillment of the needs of customers, thus increasing the quality of product and satisfy customers better.But if company is unable to keep up with the competition in the market by   utilizing all resources, then it may become a bad influence resulting in the fall of the organization as a whole. Example of PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya’s competitors include: PT. Asuransi Jiwa Manulife, PT. Prudential Life Assurance and PT. Asuransi Jiwa Sinarmas. 4. Pressure groups are groups of â⠂¬Å"Non-profit and usually voluntary organization whose members have a common cause for which they seek to influence political or corporate decision makers to achieve a declared objective.The managers must recognize the   special interest groups that attempt to influence the actions of organization. However, it does not seem that the company has any pressure group. The second environment is macro environment. According to businessdictionary. com Macro environment is define as â€Å"The major external and uncontrollable factors that influence an organization's decision making, and affect its performance and strategies† (www. businessdictionary. com/definition/macro-environment. html#ixzz2NSE44Kgp) macro environment consist of: 1. Economic conditions. http://www. worldbank. rg/en/country/indonesia/overview Indonesia continues to make a significant economic growth, in July 2012 the baseline outlooks for Indonesia is 6% and increase to 6,3% on the year of 2013, and because of t hat the country gross national income is rise from $2. 200 in the year of 2000 to $ 3. 200 in the year of 2009. So it also make a good impact for the financial management of PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya. 3. Political conditions http://asean. fta. govt. nz/indonesia-political-situation/ http://directaction. org. au/issue35/currents_undermining_indonesian_political_stability http://www. orbes. com/2009/07/17/indonesia-jakarta-economy-hotels-opinions-contributors-yudhoyono. html Indonesia has a quite stable political condition. Legal rules are established and internal conflicts have currently subsided. Indonesia has also improved in terms of its democracy as the dictatorship of Suharto was ended. Despite different political issues such as corruption and legal reformation, Indonesia was able to tackle difficulties in politics such as the bombing that happened last year. Due to this stability in political environment, companies in Indonesia including PT.Asuransi Jiwasraya enjoy predictable inf luence of law on their business. In other words, any loss derived from legal system fluctuation can be eliminated. The major political flaw of corruption in Indonesia however, does affect the business in a negative way, as it creates a negative perception of any government-related organization in the mind of its citizens. 4. Sociocultural conditions. Every customers have a changing attitudes and response. So managers must adapt their practices to changing expectation of the society, as this value, custom change so managers must also change. PT.Asuransi Jiwasraya is offering a program to make the customers feel secure in every aspect of their life, So the managers' job is to make a new innovation to make the customer more satisfy and feel more secure. So PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya can meet the changing expectations of the customers. In Indonesia, majority of the society is Muslim. This means that there is a need for the company to understand that services, especially a monetary service s uch as insurance has a differentiated regulations to the people of Indonesia, aside of the government regulation. The company should respond to this by giving an appropriately related service. . Technological conditions. The ever increasing complexity and power of technology also affects the organization. All companies in the current era have to be able to take advantage of technology development. This is because it can increase the value of work done. As a part of a society where technology is growing rapidly, PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya has adapted to the technology and utilizes some beneficial technology to help its processes. In the process of communication, for example, PT. Jiwasraya have always tried to apply the latest in communications technology complements the speed and accuracy of service.The technology is called the JL-Indo and V-SAT. Through Indo JL-policy printing process can be done at the branch where the policy issued, while the V-SAT is a communications technology that connects the entire office PT. Jiwasraya both Head Office, Regional Office or Branch Office into a single unit (on line). PT. Jiwasraya use this technology to support for having effective communication environment. Other than that, the company has also taken advantage of the limitless possibility of internet such as through the creation of website and the establishment of e-procurement system. . 0   Ã‚  COMPANY ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURES Managers and their job descriptions: Board of Comissioner: 1. Djonny Wiguna 2. M. Sapta Murti 3. Sumiyati 4. Sumyana Sukandar Comissioners are the government’s officials that are in charge of the company as a whole. Comissioners make company regulations and decides on policies regarding external factors of the company such as lands and environments. Comissioners also train and employs people for the managerial positions in the company. (http://www. mrsc. org/subjects/governance/responsibilities. aspx) Board of Directors: . President Director : Hendrisman Rahim The president director have a job to leading the implementation of the management company for the interests and objectives of the company, the president director also have to be the coordinator of all the other members of the Board of Directors in carrying out the duties and authority of the Board of Directors are set out in the Articles of Association, the president director have the responsibility to oversee the Secretariat Division and the Division of Internal Control Unit. 2. Director of Coverage: Hendrisman RahimThe director of coverage have a job to setting the culture of the company, director of coverage also have a job to developing strategy and direction for the company, director of coverage also have a job leading the executive/senior management of the company (including firing and hiring) . 3. Directors of Marketing: De Yong Adrian The marketing director is responsible for the entire operation of company’s marketing department, the director of ma rketing have the responsibility to make the company is known by the customer’s, the directors of marketing also supervises and coaches the company's marketing team. 4.Directors of Finance: Hary Prasetyo Finance Director has overall control and responsibility for all financial aspects of company strategy and is expected to analyse figures and implement recommendations based on these findings with the most profitable outcomes, the financial management often managing and leading a team through difficult periods including month end, year end and annual budgeting, a Finance Director would have excellent communication skills with all levels of staff, often having to work with various departments to help them plan and manage their own budgets. Division Heads: 1. Division Head of Secretariat: SumarsonoSecretariat is defined as the administrative department of governmental organization(http://www. merriam-webster. com/dictionary/secretariat). The administrative department is usually r esponsible for daily accounting, organizational agenda and of messages from and to the organization. A secretary as a part of the secretariat is also responsible to assist directors. 2. Division Head of Internal Control Unit: Erry Syafruddin This division’s work is to make sure that all the units in the company work in accordance with the predetermined objectives and evaluating work quality of people working in the organization.They also check documents that are related to observed issues filed by the directors as well as preparing appropriate letters of response 3. Division Head of Finance Accounting and Collection: Danang Suryono Finance division head’s task is to solve issues related to finance. The department of finance makes financial policies for the sake of the company and report any error to directors. Finance division head creates the budget plan of the company and forsee any financial chance or problem that the company may face. 4.Division Head of Investment: Syahmirwan This division makes policies and plans on what assets the company should invest on or sell in order to keep the company’s financial attributes strong. The division monitor allthe assets owned by the company and calculate investment risks for the company. 5. Division Head of Human Resources:   Udhi Prasetyanto Deals with the planning and organizing of human capital of the company. Resolves any problems between the workers of the company and file the profiles of individual employees.Is also responsible to consult the workers in relation to their work and any complaints about the company, thus making them in charge to file complaints to the different departments in the company. The division manages the placing of new employees and making sure that new employees are able to do their expected work. Training and internship are also the fields that   human resource department are responsible for. 6. Division Head of General and Fixtures:   Kompyang Wibisana The div ision head of general and fixture have a job to construct the annual work programe for PT .Asuransi Jiwasraya for the year, the head of general and fixtures also have responsibilities to implement administrative affairs public relations and cooperation with other parties, the head of general and fixtures also have to do the storage, distribution and maintenance of equipment items. 7. Actuarial Division Head: Iswardi Division that computes the risk and probability of death, marriage and birth and help insurance company determine their rate based on the statistical observation result.The division makes sure PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya obtain profit from the determined rate of service. 8. Head of Division of Underwriting Retail ; Corporate:   Umi Ratih Underwriting retail is the one who have responsibilities for providing effectiveness and efficient management of all underwriting department, this includes overseeing that the underwriting of all loan types offered by HomeStreet Bank, occur s in a timely manner and in accordance with company and investor guidelines. . Head of Division of Agency Retail ; Corporate: G. Agung Nugraha Susanta The head of agency retail have to be responsible to development as per retail standards and ensuring adherence to timelines, Division of agency retail is a people who is responsible for selling the product of PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya that only in the form of retail and also have to manage all the management of agency retail in PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya. 10.Division Head of Retail ; Corporate Selling:   Fitriansyah The head of retail and corporate selling have a job to watch and coordinate all the governments and staff division of retail and   corporate sales according to the span of control, head of retail also have to coordinate and be responsible for the creation of command updates in accordance with the development of market industry insurance matters relating to strategy (Pattern) Retail and corporate sales. 11.Head of Marketing Di vision:   Leonard Tambunan   Ã‚   The job of the marketing division is to manage product, price, distribution and promotional strategy for the company. This means that the division plans on what products to be made, where it will be marketed, and the price of the product and how to create better company image while meeting the needs of the costumers through the value of the product. 12. Division Head of Information Technology:   Ari Faizal Aliaini The division head of information have a job to oversee the development, implementation, and use of technology throughout the firm.The division head of information technology also have the responsibility to range the information systems and telecommunications activities, including determining user requirements, recommending practical solutions, and leading firm-wide efforts to improve the effective use of technology, the division head of technology also have responsibilities to provide expertise and support during system upgrade, inst allation, conversion, and file maintenance. 13.Division Head of Pension Fund Financial Institution: Lusiana The division manages the fund specified for the pension fund for the employees that retires from the company due to age, health or disability factors. It ensures that retired employees are given their rights so that they may gain benefit as they have been beneficial to the company during their year of services. In this way, the company continues to make employees feel that they are appreciated. In general, Division Heads are responsible of supervising management staffs properly.They are expected to be in charge of interpreting regularizations into policies that the division should follow in their activities. Division Heads are also in charge of making necessary changes and proposing plans regarding their divisions in a way that will help the division to develop. One of the jobs of a division head is to be a leader for the people who work in the division. Therefore, a division head should be able to aid the workers, oversee and evaluate their work and give proper feedback to the workers. Other than that they are responsible to create a good relationship between the division and customers in general. http://www. bestsamplejobdescription. com/director-job-description-2/division-director-job-descriptio/) Regional Managers: 1. James Tomasoa Jakarta I Regional Manager 2. Saripudin Bandung Regional Manager 3. I Nyoman Surata Semarang Regional Manager 4. Eddy Susanto Surabaya Regional Manager 5. Libertus Ompusunggu Makassar Regional Manager 6. Bachruddin Manado Regional Manager 7. Novi Rahmi Palembang Regional Manager 8. Sulik Harsono Malang Regional Manager 9. Jumino Balikpapan Regional Manager 10. Karmanto Pekanbaru Regional Manager 11. Dafras Jakarta II Regional Manager 12. Dwi Laksito Pontianak Regional Manager 3. Rotua Pasaribu Medan Regional Manager 14. Adi Susanto Denpasar Regional Manager 15. M. Idris Cirebon Regional Manager 16. M. Arifin Yogyakarta Reg ional Manager 17. Supardi Sudiro Jakarta III Regional Manager Regional managers are responsible for driving sales in the area of their responsibility through good leadership, customer-relationship and strategies. In businesses where the product is in the form of goods, they are responsible for merchandising of the business, but as PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya is a service company, regional managers are not expected to be responsible for merchandising.Regional managers must be able to communicate the company’s goals to each individual stores in its region. They also have to monitor that all activities are done in accordance with the regulations of the company and that all conduct meets the expectancy of the corporation. (http://www. paper-source. com/jobs/Regional-Manager-Job-Description. pdf) 6. 0   COMPANY MOTIVATION Every company must have a goal that needs to be achieved, to do that every company have to be capable of using all of resources that the company has including human resource. Human resources are very important on every step that the company has made.The success of the company   is depends on its performance. The performance of the workers inside the company depends on: personality and ability, task difficulty, resource availability, working conditions and chance or luck. But besides that, another important factor that contributes to performance is the motivation given by the company to its workers is given by the company. One of motivation that is given by PT. Asuransi Jiwasrayal is   by   providing the compensation monetary. Compensation monetary is a motivation that is given by the company by   giving the   employees a reward in the form of money.And   the result is, PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya has successfully gaining the performance of the workers. PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya also can motivate the employees by making many events that can allows relation of employees to grow. So by making many events between the employees it can gaining t he sense of belonging of the customers. PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya have a program called â€Å"management performance system†   the goal from making this performance management system is to measure the performance of the workers work, and   the result is that the employees on PT.Asuransi Jiwasraya not yet giving the best of their performance. The desire for the employee’s to achieve the goal of the company are still small, because of that reason PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya is motivating employees by giving a job enlargement to the employees. By giving the job enlargement it can make the employees to dedicate more effort into their jobs, So it can make the employees feel that they have to achieve more   than what the company has expected, so it make a good motivation for the employees, and also give a good impact for the company performance because the employees will act in the company's favor. . 0 Company’s strategic management process 1. Identifying the companyâ⠂¬â„¢s current mission, goals and strategies: Company’s mission: Provide certainty, security and convenience through the use of competitive and innovative solution to customers in need of insurance and financial planning. The company’s current goal is to be one of the top five biggest insurance company and to in long term becomes a globally known insurance company. 2. Identifying external factors: Opportunity and threat:The opportunity that arises for companies in insurance service providing business for the year of 2013 is the trend of increasing number of people purchasing insurance online. The threat faced by the companies is the fact that insurance company often mis-sell their product. This means that an insurance company might have sold their product to people who really does not need the product. Another threat faced by the company is people’s negative attitude towards insurance company, as claiming any compensation is assumed as a complicated process. 3.I dentifying internal factors: Company’s strength: 1. The company has been established for a long time, so it has a strong fundation 2. It is a well-structured company and jobs are defined clearly for everyone in the company allowing them to focus on their individual task, thus developing professionalism 3. Strong relationships between the company’s employees 4. Has won awards that may increase its credibility in the eyes of potential market including a â€Å"Best Life Insurance† award 5. Has established connection with other trusted companies 6. PT.Asuransi Jiwasraya has gained its customer’s loyalty as proven by its award in 2005: â€Å"Indonesian Customer Loyalty Award† Company’s weaknesses: 1. The company’s background theory, the Max Weber theory of management results in the loss of flexibility. 2. The company is very oriented towards satisfying a limited group of people which is Indonesian people that everything is established in a strong Indonesian culture. 3. The lack of promotional effort 4. The company has yet to utilize technology in its benefit to its maximum potential Formulating strategiesThese are the strategies used by PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya: The current strategy applied is new product development, improvement of the quality of human resources and investment on information technology. 1. New product development. The company continues to create new products that serve the needs of the customers better. For example, in the year of 2012, the company created 5 traditional products and 2 â€Å"unit-linked† products which are claimed to be more flexible as the customer can take fund out and invest more fund after 6 months of the first investment. http://www. jiwasraya. co. id/detailberita. php? id=486&lang=id) 2. PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya tries to penetrate market of different segment. The company continues to grow but as the target of increase is not reached, the company expands its area of srvice by targeting new market segment which is of the younger group of people. The insurance company produces new roduct that brings benefit especially to students. (http://keuangan. kontan. co. id/news/kinerja-jiwasraya-meleset-dari-target) 3. Improvement of quality of human resources . Utilization of technology in the organization for example the establishment of the e-procurement (online purchasing of insurance) by the company (http://systemloverz. wordpress. com/2012/12/14/penerapan-e-procurement-untuk-mewujudkan-good-corporate-governance-di-bumn/) 5. Increasing the number of agents in the organization 6. Establishing and maintaining beneficial relationship with other companies 7. Gain positive reputation through different charitable actions The company has a good strategic management process.The flaw to the strategy is that the company is very focused on its goal of reaching more premium and of creating better quality products that the company seem to neglect the fact that promotion is an important part in business. The company needs to increase its budget on advertising and its frequency of advertising. They need to establish ways for target market to find out about them rather than letting the target market find them by chance. This is also true as some people makes their choices based on the fact that the company

A Study On A Structural Necessity Architecture Essay

The necessity of construction is barely a simple topic. Discussions on the subject have ranged from Levi-Strauss ‘ accounts of infrastructures which exist beyond our ability to straight grok, to unite world-systems such as Wallerstein proposed, and of class the counter statements against such a incorporate system much like Mintz ‘ offered. Indeed depending on our definition of ‘necessity ‘ and ‘structure ‘ the form and range of such statement can go radically different. Within the societal scientific disciplines the term construction besides seems have different options. At possibly the most cardinal degree, within the field, the societal scientific disciplines themselves are broken into separate subjects in an attempt to decently analyze, analyse, and categorise different types of information, therefore supplying a sense of order or construction. Yet even these divisions are inconsistent across the field. At one institute sociology and anthropology may be joined in a individual plan of survey yet at others they are wholly separate and possibly assorted with another, such as linguistics. Beyond specifying itself the societal scientific disciplines have a singular ability for classifying, reclassifying, and re-reclassifying things ( including but barely limited to race, civilization, historical periods, theoretical models, methodological analysiss, and gender ) on a regular footing. In 1978, Edward Said, in his book Orientalism, identified a really controversial division between Europe and the Orient. Since so there have been important arguments on the ground for such a division, and even if such a division genuinely existed. Janet Abu-Lughod, in 1989 wrote â€Å" Analyzing a System in Formation † , in which she agreed that there is a recognizable division between the Europe and the remainder of the universe. Indeed she suggests that there is a incorporate universe construction and it is based on a Eurocentric theoretical account which developed around the 14th century. Within societal scientific disciplines this of course raises the inquiry, is the strong accent we give to construction an unconscious affect of the Eurocentric beginning of our theoretical account? Or is construction a more permeant thought? This essay contends that while a big part of the authorship in societal scientific discipline literature is Eurocentric in beginning, the construction, and more specifically the thought of construction is non limited to European idea. Levi-Strauss ‘ thoughts of infrastructure offers a strong statement that construction, as Abu-Lughod describes it, is simply the superstructure representation of an implicit in infrastructure common throughout all human civilizations. Then before turn toing the signifier of construction in the superstructure of our modern universe system, we must inquire whether determine whether construction is needed, or instead can we gestate of a universe, or societal scientific disciplines, without construction? Finally, manners of communicating will be used to demo how construction is exhaustively embedded in our universe even when it is non perceived. InAnalyzing a System in Formation, Janet Abu-Lughod really indicates her beliefs that the current construction of societal scientific disciplines is dominated by its European beginnings. Indeed while citing others, she gives provinces that the current universe system is wholly Eurocentric. For illustration, she recognizes Immanuel Wallerstein for coining the term â€Å" modern world-system † and that Europe lead development of this system, which has lasted more than 500 old ages. ( Abu-Lughod, 4 ) She supports this contention with the plants of Fernand Braudel and Eric Wolff who describe how a euro-centered universe was established in the 14th century and was the footing for the current universe system. ( Abu-Lughod, 9 ) Indeed, she accuses Braudel of doing an â€Å" unconscious Eurocentric faux pas. † ( Abu-Lughod, 11 ) In these illustrations the thought of Eurocentrism is difficult to lose. As Abu-Lughod points out, â€Å" Before Europe becameoneof the world-economies in the twelfth and 13th centuries†¦ there were legion pre-existent world-economies. † ( 12 ) Looking at the modern system it is possibly excessively easy to see the strength of the European influence upon the system, whether in currency rates, human rights issues, or a assortment of other countries. But to state that the modern system is purely based on this influence suggests that all other systems have either been discarded or go subservient to the Euro-centric theoretical account. Yet we have merely to come in a non-European state to recognize merely how diverse the differences elsewhere remain. Surely the strong grades of European influences are felt in South Africa or India, where English is widely spoken. And similarly in Algeria and Egypt where Arabic is still the national linguistic communication but a turning per centum of the population speak French and English, severally. Yet in each instance, although they have adopted parts of the Euro-centric theoretical account, they have each molded their ain signifier. Rather than being consumed Europe they have been influenced by it. But the influence is non unidimensional, instead influences flow back and Forth between parts. The ongoing argument in France sing hijab and other spiritual symbols in public schools is declarative of the concern felt by many in France of the turning Muslim population. Likewise, the alterations in corporate leading methods over the past decennary, from individualistic to more group-oriented, reflect an inflow of new thoughts from Japan and other states in Southeast Asia. In the terminal, Abu-Lughod was at least partly right ; Europe has influenced the construction of the world-system. But the world-system, and including Europe, has been influenced by the remainder of the universe. In a similar mode, while the construction of societal scientific disciplines found its beginnings in Europe it has, particularly in recent decennaries, been strongly influenced by the remainder of the universe. The construction that remains is non a massive creative activity but instead an merger which is invariably in flux. Leading possibly to the inevitable inquiry, are we utilizing the right, or the best system? Or do we even need to make this construction? When composingThe Ritual Processin 1969 Victor Turner gave us the term ‘anti-structure ‘ . His term was non meant to connote a deficiency of construction. In â€Å" Metaphors of Anti-Structure in Religious Culture † he clarified his term stating, â€Å" †¦ the ‘anti ‘ is here merely used strategically and does non connote a extremist negativeness. † ( 272 ) He farther explains, â€Å" I do non seek the obliteration of affair by signifier. † ( 273 ) Rather than proposing non-structure, the term anti-structure is conceived as yet another portion of the whole non to the full accounted for within the bing construction ; they are two-sides of the same coin. Within societal scientific disciplines as a whole at that place ever seems to be a construction. Disciplines are broken down by topics or methods. Subjects are broken down by location or clip period. Information is so pigeon-holed into a peculiar subject within a topic under a subject. Sometimes these topics and subjects are realigned, and sometimes information is referenced in multiple topographic points, but there is consistent effort to happen a topographic point everything ; or as the expression goes, â€Å" A topographic point for everything and everything in its topographic point. † But why must everything be put in its topographic point? And is there truly a topographic point for everything? Historically, our classification systems last until something does n't suit. After seeking legion unsuccessful ways to accommodate our theoretical account and our information we acknowledge the job and expression for a new construction ; what sociology of cognition would cal cubic decimeter a revolution of cognition. But is a construction necessary? Can we gestate of our societal scientific discipline information outside the restraints of construction? If it is possible, we do we invariably seek to develop a more accurate and/or effectual construction? One might reason that early ethnographers, such as Marco Polo and Sir Richard Francis Burton worked outside the restraints of construction. They successfully documented important information without being purely attached to a peculiar subject. Indeed such plants frequently contain a wealth of information because they include a great assortment of different types of information. In a similar mode Clifford Geertz ‘ experience as described inDeep Play: Notes on the Balinese Cockfightcan be viewed as working outside the constituted construction. His intended survey was, no uncertainty, sanctioned and developed along certain guidelines. However, when he allowed himself to be caught up in rabble outlook brought on by the sudden reaching of the constabulary he was non moving within the restraints of any guidelines. Indeed Geertz ‘ description of the police officer ‘s action on page 415 suggest that he was movingagainstthe established construction. When we read about the Balinese cockfight and implicit in construction is easy to individuality. Peopless are identified by originals and specific subjects are ethical motives are indicated. The analysis itself is really structured, and that is where the construction seems to fall within much of the societal scientific disciplines, particularly anthropology. In order to pass on the information to others we construction it in such as manner that it becomes relevant to our audience. Yet the existent assemblage of information, though possibly limited by a pre-defined field site and research inquiries, can be a non-structured action. In my research of the effects of nomadic communicating engineerings, I frequently find it hard to non see a construction. Due to my experience working on the mechanical side of the engineering, I frequently construction the engineerings, and thereby the people, without detecting. A adult male in a suit utilizing a Blackberry phone seems is deemed a concern adult male, while a similar adult male have oning denims and utilizing an iPhone is deemed a college pupil. Likewise, person utilizing Linux is considered more technologically savvy than person utilizing Windows or an Apple OS, irrespective of their existent competency. From a proficient position, nomadic phones require a physical web to enable communicating. Unlike a land line phone which offers interaction between to fixed points in infinite, a nomadic phone offers an tantamount interaction at two random points. Furthermore, the cellular engineerings allow for non-stationary points, significance communicators are no longer tied to a fixed location. Enabling this nomadic communicating is an substructure web kindred to Levi-Strauss ‘ infrastructure of society. This is the unseeable, underlying system which ties everything together. With nomadic phones, a cellular web must be developed and maintained. This web must let easy connexion and must be linked to other cellular webs to enable transferring of one communicator to different locations with disrupting the manner of communicating. Finally, for this method to be genuinely effectual the web must be built around the communicators and their venues ; a cellular web in an empty desert serves no intent. Developing an effectual web therefore requires consciousness of bing locations of communicators and a method of mapping that information into a cellular web. Thus a construction develops based on the demands of a community. Of class, the communicators are by and large incognizant of this web. A adult male simply dials a figure on his Mobile phone, irrespective of where he is, and his married woman replies at some other unknown and apparently unrelated location. There is no demand for the users of this system to be cognizant of its nature, however the system does be. It is really easy to look around and see merely pandemonium. We are non required to see constructions in our day-to-day life. We take the construction itself for granted, yet that does non intend it does non be. We may gestate of cases where persons move outside the construction, or in a non-structured signifier. Yet when we seek communicate these actions we do so in a structured mode. The analysis, the manner we present the information, even the really linguistic communication itself contains an in agreement upon construction which allows us to pass on. But the construction is non massive and unchanging. A changeless duologue between different influences forms and reshapes the construction. We influence others even while we are influenced. At times a certain type of construction, such as the European theoretical account may look to rule but in clip even it is seen to be influenced by others. In the terminal thought of construction is in an built-in thought throughout the universe, a nd it is merely the peculiar signifier, what Levi-Strauss called the superstructure, that is distinguishable.BibliographyAbu-Lughod, J. ( 1989 ) . â€Å" Analyzing a System in Formation. † InBefore European Hegemony: The World System A.D. 1250-1350. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press. Pp 3-40. Althusser, L. ( 1970 ) .Ideology and Ideological State Apparatuses.Retrieved on 28 Feb 10, From The Louis Althusser Internet Archive: hypertext transfer protocol: //www.marxists.org/reference/archive/althusser/1970/ideology.htm. DiTornaso, N. ( 1982 ) . â€Å" ‘Sociological Reductionism ‘ from Parsons to Althusser: Associating Action and Structure in Social Theory. †American Sociological Review, 47 ( 1 ) : 14-28. Geertz, C. ( 1973 ) . â€Å" Deep Play: Notes on a Balinese Cockfight. † InThe Interpretation of Cultures. London, UK: Hutchinson, Pp 412-454. Geertz, C. ( 1973 ) . â€Å" Thick Description: Toward an Interpretive Theory of Culture. † InThe Interpretation of Cultures. London, UK: Hutchinson, Pp 3-30. Goffman, E. ( 1963 ) . â€Å" Stigma and Social Identity. † InStigma: Notes on the Management of a Spoiled Identity. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall. Pp. 1-40. Levi-Strauss, C. ( 1958 ) . â€Å" Structural Analysis in Linguistics and in Anthropology. † Retrieved on 13 Feb 10, From The Marxist Internet Archivess: hypertext transfer protocol: //www.marxists.org/reference/subject/philosophy/works/fr/levistra.htm. Mintz, S. ( 1977 ) . â€Å" The Alleged World System: Local Initiative and Local Response. †Dialectical Anthropology, 2 ( 4 ) : 253-270. Nugent, D. ( 2009 ) . â€Å" Knowledge and Empire: The Social Sciences and United States Imperial Expansion. †Identities:Global Studies in Culture and Power, 17 ( 1 ) : 2-44. Trouillot, M-R. ( 1991 ) . â€Å" Anthropology and the Savage Slot: The Poeticss and Politicss of Otherness. † InRecapturing Anthropology: Working in the Present. Richard Fox ( erectile dysfunction ) . Pp. 17-44. Turner, V. ( 1975 ) . â€Å" Metaphors of Anti-Structure in Religious Culture. † InDramas, Fields and Metaphors: Symbolic Action in Human Society. Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press. Pp. 272-300.

The 4 Types Of ACT Reading Passages You Should Know

The 4 Types Of ACT Reading Passages You Should Know SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips One of the nice things about the ACT is that it doesn't change all that much from test to test. This is especially true for the Reading section: Reading is always the third section of the ACT, there will always be passages on four subject areas, and each subject area will have 10 questions. So what are the 4 types of ACT Reading passages? Read on to find out! feature image credit: Four by Jukka Zitting, used under CC BY 2.0/Cropped from original. 4 Passages To Rule Them All The 4 types of passages on the ACT are always the same, and always presented in same order: 1. Prose Fiction/Literary Narrative, 2. Social Science, 3. Humanities, and 4. Natural Science. ACT, Inc. has an exhaustive list of all the topics that might be covered in each of these areas, but it's kind of overwhelming. To make it a little easier to understand what exactly is covered in each subject area, I've summarized each passage type, along with the questions that you’re likely to see on them, below. Prose Fiction/Literary Narrative These passages usually consist of excerpts from fiction or literary memoirs. You're likely to be asked... questions about the main theme questions about the narrator's tone and intent (e.g. what did the narrator mean when she used this particular phrase or word?) which questions are and are not answered by the passage Social Science These passages usually consist of straightforward discussions of topics in the social sciences, including areas like psychology (study of the mind), sociology (study of societies), and education. You're likely to be asked... to paraphrase how information from the passage describes subject of the passage which statements the author would agree with (that is, what's the main point of the passage) If the passage is about a particular person (like Harriet Tubman), there will often be questions about the passage subject’s point of view, rather than author’s point of view (in contrast with Prose Fiction/Literary Narrative or Humanities passages, which often deal with the author or narrator's points of view). Humanities These passages from can be from personal essays or memoirs, as well as on humanities subject areas like the arts, literature, media, or philosophy. Questions on Humanities passages are similar to Prose Fiction in that you're more likely to be asked about the tone or point of view of the passage or the narrator as compared to the Social Science or Natural Science passages. Natural Science These passages are nonfiction writing about SCIENCE. The topics can range from subjects that you've probably covered in school, like bio, chemistry, or physics, to more esoteric areas like astronomy, technology, or medicine (no paleontology yet, but I can always dream). You do not need a science background to understand the passages; all you need are solid reading comprehension skills. (The same is true of the ACT Science section). Becoming familiar with science writing, however, might make you feel less intimidated by these passages when you have to deal with them on the ACT. Similar to Social Science questions, Natural Science questions tend to be more focused on specific detail or statements that can be backed up with evidence from passage. A typical question you might see is "Which of the following statements is supported by the information in the fourth paragraph?" How Do I Know Where My Problems Are? So how do you know if you struggle with some passage types more than others? Follow these steps to find out your weaknesses. Step 1: Take a timed practice ACT test, in order, and score it. Because Reading appears third on the ACT, it's important to take it as part of an entire timed and in-order ACT. How your brain copes with the Reading section when you're just practicing reading passages and answering questions on them is very likely different than how it will do after it's been tired out by English and Math. Step 2: Compare your Social Studies/Sciences and Arts/Literature subscores. Your Social Studies/Sciences subscore is simply the combination of your scores on questions on Social Science and Natural Science passages, while your Arts/Literature subscore is the combination of your scores on questions on Prose Fiction/Literary Narrative/Humanities passages. Most official scoring charts will provide you with the information you'll need to calculate these subscores, which will be out of 20. You can even calculate them for yourself: your Arts/Litereature subscore = questions 1-10 + questions 21-30, while Social Studies/Sciences subscore = questions 11-20 + questions 31-40. Is there a significant difference between your Social Studies/Sciences and Arts/Literature subscores? More than a 1-2 point difference between subscores indicates a difference worth checking into. For instance, if you got a 12/20 Social Studies/Sciences subscore and a 17/20 Arts/Literature subscore, you definitely would want to focus your studying on Social Science and Natural Science passages. Step 3: For each of the four passage types, compare how many questions you answered incorrectly. Since there are 10 questions in each section, it's pretty easy to do percentages - 1 question wrong is 90%, 4 questions wrong is 60%, and so on. Comparing your scores on each of the passage types can be really illuminating, because it can shed light on areas you may not have realized you had issues with. Remember, it’s not just important that you’re comfortable with reading the passages: it’s important that you can successfully extract info from them to answer questions correctly. Example from my life: Prose Fiction passages are the least straightforward to read for me, but I find the questions on these types of passages the easiest because there are fewer concrete things to ask about (especially when compared to Social Science or Natural Science passages). When I did a timed practice Reading ACT, I got 1 wrong on Social Science and 2 wrong on Natural Sciences passages; if I were taking the test for real, I would start my studying by first focusing on Natural Science passages and then Social Science passages. Step 4: To be absolutely certain, take multiple timed ACT practice tests Sometimes, even if you normally do well on a passage type, a particularly difficult passage can throw you and cause you to get more questions wrong than you normally would in that area. If you think that might have been the case on the timed ACT practice test you took, and you have the time, do not hesitate to take another timed practice test. The more accurate data you have, the better you can structure your studying. Step 5: Once you know which passages you struggle with questions on, focus your reading preparation on those passages. While there are some questions that tend to appear more on some passage types than others (more on this in upcoming articles), most of the different types of questions can and will be asked about each of the four passage types. By focusing on the particular passage type you have trouble with, you'll both increase your skill at extracting information from passages you find challenging as well as familiarizing yourself with the different ways the ACT will question you (a skill which then will carry across all passage types). The detective by paurian, used under CC BY 2.0. Be a detective and hunt down your weakest ACT Reading passage types. What Do I Do Next? Now that you know about the 4 types of passages, learn more about how to do well on ACT Reading. Want more in depth information aboutwhat's actually tested onACT Reading? We have the article for you. Find out the best way to approach ACT Reading passages with our complete guide. Having problems with finishing the ACT Reading in time? Read our article for tips on how to avoid this dreadful fate. Aiming for a top score? Read about how you can get a 36 on ACT Reading. Want to improve your ACT score by 4 points? Check out our best-in-class online ACT prep program. We guarantee your money back if you don't improve your ACT score by 4 points or more. Our program is entirely online, and it customizes your prep program to your strengths and weaknesses. We also have expert instructors who can grade every one of your practice ACT essays, giving feedback on how to improve your score. Check out our 5-day free trial: