Importance of Art Education during Childhood Essay Example for Free

Importance of Art Education during Childhood Essay Since more than two decades researchers have been discovering affirmative relationships between arts education and cognitive improvement in children. Gardner (1983) has claimed an affirmative relationship between arts and intellectual (Clark Zimmerman, 2004). There are multiple advantages of arts education that range from the improvement of vocabulary and math competence, to the improvement of spatial reasoning. Today arts education is given much more importance than previously, when it was thought to be a lot of fluff. Art is not simply an extra subject in education; it is necessary to learning. When students learn about the visual arts, they get a view of the rich and fascinating world around them. This teaches them theirs as well as others history and customs. Art leads to a cultivation of expressiveness, imagination and originality along with critical thinking and analytical competence. It has been stated by the art educators that children as young as three years of age consistently use their imagination in different ways (Golbeck, 2001). The children studying about art expand their capabilities to consider meanings and to make assessments and decisions. Through comprehending and creating art, a student can learn how to work collaboratively with others and also how to put in effort to attain an objective. Also, art education helps in making a major contribution to the enhancement of the child’s capabilities to tackle with the abundance of visual indications obtainable to him and to comprehend and utilise these visual indications (Anway McDonald, 1971). The enhancement of such competencies and qualities allows for making children better learners along with helping them to feel good; that is, it creates self-worth. It is a world where concepts and data are usually conveyed visually, and the children are required to learn the way they can consider and ascertain the sense of the pictures and also how they can use them so as to convey their own concepts. These talents and qualities are considered essential for individual success as well as America’s improvement.   In spite of this several schools have reduced their budget in art programs since the last decade and this has resulted in some schools providing with almost no art education (Prentice, 2000). These schools are not offering their students with the chance to improve their talents that are so essential if they are to succeed in a competitive fiscal setting in such an ethnically varied, visually adjusted world. Teaching Art Enid and Laura Zimmerman say that there are three standpoints of art teaching that have affected art education for youngsters since the last five decades. The first point is that a child’s piece of art is an expression of the natural internal procedures of improvement. The second point is established on a cognitive improvement attitude, and it concentrates on children’s building of general knowledge concerning the world. The third point is that art education leads to a promotion of self-improvement in order to allow the children to absorb themselves relative to the community they live in. According to Gardner (1980) when adults offer the youngsters with the kit, materials and support, their natural art capabilities develop. The adults should not be directly interfering with the children so as to develop their natural capabilities (Schaffer-Simmern, 1948). Infants and preschool children rather prefer to explore colors, feel and type of materials and express thoughts, concepts and insights. These are fine objectives for them. They value the procedure more than the end result. After completion of the work by a child, the teacher or parent should talk to him about it instead of simply praising him. This allows for learning more about the artwork and how the child thinks. Also, the instructor can put down points on paper and, if the child allows, fix it to the child’s work. Plus, the artwork should be dated. That allows the instructor to keep a track of the youngster’s improvement. Visual arts can be a source of advantage to children of all ages. From a kid’s first rate motor skill development to a teen’s expressive enhancement, the arts can prove to be a much efficient training and managing means. A person does not have to be absolutely knowledgeable on each and every procedure or have to purchase extremely costly equipment in order to bring in the arts to a kid’s life. Straightforward product selection and child focused examination can direct initial creative attempts. Children’s Motivational Beliefs about Art Art classrooms offer with distinct motivational tests. Even though kids usually take pleasure in the hands-on exercises which are part of most of the curriculum and they without reluctance involve themselves in the delegated projects, it is quite often hard to get them to put in all their efforts, to make their â€Å"hurried production† more detailed and improved. Many a times young students are overheard talking about who is good at art and who is not, which is mostly themselves. Usually with age kids become pessimistic concerning their art capability (Flannery Watson, 1991; Gardner Rosenstiel, 1977). The necessity of motivation in order to maintain children’s interest in art is accentuated by the usual weakening in self-esteem and interest in art which the kids start displaying during middle childhood. This weakening is linked with the children’s idea that their production should fulfil the principles of traditional practicality and that they do not possess the abilities of accomplishing this (Flannery Watson, 1991). Nevertheless, comparable deteriorations in self-assessments of capabilities are commonly perceived in various subjects (Stipek Maclver, 1989), and also the progressive weakening of student’s encouragement as they advance through school. In goal theory the advice is implied that teachers motivate students to follow individual imaginations of mastery more willingly than to work to impress outside assessors. This is a problem for regions like visual art where students should bear in mind the ultimate receiving of their performance (imaginative production) by an audience even as they try to focus on self-enhancement and mastery. This matter poses a problem to the art teachers who should make every day choices concerning the degree to which they will try to motivate students by emphasizing grades and the chance for exhibit of work. Art teachers are also caught up with the fact about whether art contests raise children’s concentration on spirited performance to the disadvantage of their assignment involvement and ability improvement. Parents and Art Education Parents can help their children in art education and not just rely on the institutions. They can encourage the children’s involvement in art when at home which can be done by encouraging art programs in the nearby society and also by assisting in making a decision as to how the school can teach the art. Parents can also turn out to be important speakers for developing art programs at schools. Parents can work along with the school staff, with the members of art societies, and also with other people. In this way they can ensure that art is being given a significant position in their children’s education plus in the society. There can be PTA meetings held that would emphasize on the importance of art education. In this way parent awareness concerning art education will be built. A very significant step that parents, and even rest of the people, can take is to back up education leaders and officers so as to sponsor the addition of art education in the syllabus. Every person can lead to a difference if he contacts these persons.

Criminal Trends Essay Example for Free

Criminal Trends Essay There is no question that crime has had and continues to hinder society. The criminal justice system is an intricate part of society and is essential that this system remains capable of adequately dealing with the latest crime trends. It was the establishment of the consistency with the Social Commission that the number or crimes should become a priority so that the facts and statistics developed can be readily available for use. When the first crimes were recorded over 60 years ago there findings showed crime trends in larceny, physical assaults, and homicide. As time progressed into today the studies conducted show an increase and broader concept to include organized crime from the mafias, organized crime involving gangs, trafficking of illegal drugs, and the illegal trafficking of humans. The interface between components of the criminal justice system and criminal justice connections with surrounding society is always changing. There are many components that affect society and criminal justice system. Components such as the increase of juvenile crimes, gun control, technology, and legalization of drugs, terrorism, and the list can continue. The two main components that have the largest effect from society to the criminal justice system are going to the increasing advancement of technology and the newly risen debate of gun control. These two components have the largest impact on society and the criminal justice system. Past trends that affected the criminal justice system: Society and the criminal justice system had their share of crime during the past. The crime that was handled during this time was difficult as it is today when something new occurs and has to be handled. Years ago there was not the forensics capabilities or the technology that we have today to solve murders and other crimes. The technological devices and advances that are available today were not present; therefore, requiring society and the criminal justice system do the best they each could do. The criminal justice system and its many agencies did not have bullet proof vests, GPS search systems, DNA/forensics, computers, Internet, biometric imagery, database information centers, telephones, walkie-talkies, and the list continues. Depending on how deep in the past things is observed or studied the criminal justice system and society had a different relationship than what is found today between the two. Society was not as quick to get involved with matters that did not concern them or their families; however, society had more of a hardcore respect for the criminal justice system especially, law enforcement. Technology is not the only component that affects the criminal justice system and society, gun laws and rights do so as well. In 1787, under The Bill of Rights in the second amendment was established allowing the American citizens to the â€Å"right to keep and bear arms† (Lee, 2012). Gun Control issues that are prevalent today were not seen as issues in the past and possibly could be seen differently in the future. There has been laws and policies created in the past that if they were not established the impact would be horrible for today’s criminal justice system. The list below complies to the past circumstances with gun control to make what society and the criminal justice system has developed recently. 1934 The National Firearms Act was established to help maintain, control, and tax firearms used during the prohibition era (Lee, 2012). * 1938 The Federal Firearms Act was established to begin the process of record keeping and acquiring a licensing for sellers (Lee, 2012). * 1968 The Gun Control Act was established to prohibit anyone from purchasing a long gun through the postal service, prohibits convicted felons, drug users, and the mental ill from obtaining the right to carry a firearm (Lee, 2012). 1990 The Crime Control Act was created to make certain areas gun-free zones, such locations that of a school area (Lee, 2012). The fact that these actions created and maintain from the past a foundation that we use today when dealing with any form of gun violence or gun requirement. In past people could carry a gun inside facilities, own whatever make or model that was present at the time, children knew how to shoot, children could carry a gun (western days); however, with the incidents that occurred developed the impact that we carry on today in society. The truth behind every act or law there is a reason to why it was created, established, and enforced. Recent and present trends that affecting the criminal justice system: According to Cetron and Davis, â€Å"the exponential rate at which technology is changing directly affecting policing today. While it offers new tools for officers, it is also providing extremely lucratively and easy means of criminal activity. † The criminal justice system and citizens are both affected by this change. Technology has progressed so rapidly over the past decade alone that criminals are committing crimes internationally, and this is making the job of law enforcement agencies even more difficult, more time consuming, and more dangerous. The criminal justice system does still have corruption from different agencies, especially the law enforcement. Today, technological advancements, and crime control relate to investigator and investigations may not significantly decrease violent crimes, only time will tell if technology advancements are hindering the criminal justice system and the privacy that Americans so desire nowadays (Muraskin, 2009). One of the most important technological creations used today is smartphones. Smartphones are equipped with cameras to take live and still shots, voice recordings, application downloads, file storage, area to link other equipment into the phone, and the list continues. The second most important technological device that has been created and used today by society and members of the criminal justice system with the different agencies is The Global Positioning System or GPS. The second trend that has taken toll recently with society and the criminal justice system and its many agencies is gun control. The horrible incident that occurred at Sandy Hook elementary school where innocent children lost their lives started a national conversation on the revision of gun control policies and acts presently in effect (Greathouse, 2013). Issues such as assault weapons bans, ammunition access, deterring the use of guns by criminals and the potentially violent, and the influence of violent media are in question because of this horrible attack. The role of law enforcement and the courts in reducing further incidents of gun violence has also been at the forefront of the h\gun violence discussion. There have been efforts to impose harsher sentences for gun crimes, producing stark difference in the federal versus state or local penalties in some areas† (Goldberger, 2008). Society has mixed emotions of the possible increments that could affect their ability to maintain their second amendment right. The main argument with most individuals in society is that guns don’t kill people, but people kill people. The possibility of divided society is strong if society loses their rights to â€Å"bear arms†, and on the other hand member of the criminal justice system who are also a part of society when off duty will have to handle the aspect of a â€Å"twin edged sword. † Future trends that will affect the criminal justice system: Attorney General Eric Holder stated, â€Å"The globalization of criminal networks and advances in technology have made international criminal organizations a significant threat to the safety and security of our nation. Preparing for the future in the criminal justice system with its many agencies and society is a hit and miss. The technology possibilities are endless. The new crimes that can occur or the possibility of terrorism happening again in this country are always strong. According to Nancy M. Ritter, â€Å" There is no question that terrorism, the growth of multicultural populations, massive migration, upheavals in age composition demographics, technological developments, and globalization in the future will affect the criminal justice system† (Ritter, 2004). Society is ever changing with the flow of the economy and the different cultures and nationalities that are present. It is a fact that we cannot control what has happened in the past, but we do have some control on what happens in the future. Society and the criminal justice system with its many agencies needs to develop an understanding and a respect for each other immediately so that when situations occur that no one in particular is involved respect for the decision and outcome are acceptable. Value of the criminal justice system in a changing society: People of society want to feel safe in our communities no matter where we are or what we are doing. There should not by any shape or form of reasoning to why individuals should not feel safe within their own homes, communities, and neighborhoods. People should be able to arise every day without having to look around and make sure if it is safe to leave their domain. Individuals should be able to walk down the street without having to look constantly over his or her shoulders in fear of harm. The relationship between the criminal justice system and society is not a complex relationship. Society is involved in many steps, policies, and procedures within the criminal justice system. Society helps with the elections of officials and also has a possible role in law making. Individuals from society help in the courtroom proceedings as well as they are members of a jury. According to Muraskin and Roberts, who states that â€Å"society is a part of the criminal justice system and its protocol such as the prevention of crime, policy making, and witnesses during court cases and jury members during courtroom proceedings. The criminal justice system is establish with law enforcement help enforce the laws of the â€Å"land† and protect the individuals in society. Society and the criminal justice system has had their differences that changed the perception and amount of respect some individuals had toward the system, but strive forward the past has to be let gone. Soceity and the criminal justice system has to work to work together to maintain a safe and stable living en vironment for everyone. The value of the criminal justice system in a changing society is irrefutable. Society would be nowhere if there was not a crimirnal justice system. If the criminals justice system did not exist, and this country would be taken over by organized crime, terrorst groups, by drugs, identity theft, prostitution, human trafficking, and the list continues. The system gives society their rights, what keeps them safe and what upholds the law. Our societies are changing daily with the increasing illegal immigrants who are located within our borders. The increaseing amount of illegal immigrants develops differences in races, cultures, beliefs, and ideology. The crimnal justice system keeps many of these things from taking over our nation and witout them there is no hope. â€Å"Predictions and visions of the furture are makred by challegnges, expectatons, advaced preparedness, and techological developments. Crminal justice professionals are encountering enormous challenes and organizational changes, Whether or not the technologically advnaced changes in criminal justice investgations and crime control will contnue to significantly reduce violent crime rates remains to be seen. But, technological and social developments as well as policy changes offer much promises for the future† (Muraskin, 2009). Conclusion: The crimes that society has had to contend within the past still hinder the criminal justice system along with the new elements of crime. Crime trends are extending beyond the border of the United States and are a challenge globally. Cybercrimes are on the rise as society becomes more dependent upon electronic data gadgets and the Internet. The criminal justice system of today is believed by many not to be capable of remaining effective without change. The current methods of dealing with criminals and their crimes are ineffective toward the current crime trends. This will require changes in the way the grand jury operates on an everyday basis. The most practical effective method for the grand jury would be to meet and discuss current crimes and punishments without an authoritarian disposition. The ongoing fact is that the criminal justice system has and will contour to change. Criminal will come up with new and clever ways to commit their crimes and the criminal justice system has to come up with ways to combat these advancements. Society will always have criminals therefore making the constant need for the criminal justice system and all the agencies involved. The criminal justice system will always be an ever evolving field within society. Society changes on a regular basis and with change from within society develops the technological needs are established. In other words, as society changes the needs that it takes to be more productive is altered to fit the present situation. The barriers that come along can affect how the criminal justice system interprets on how to control and maintain the situation. The fundamental basis of the criminal justice system is to protect and serve the community. The criminal justice system has to stay ahead of the game, especially the changes that occur in society. Crime trends may not last; therefore, receiving a fundamental explanation of how long crime trends will last is anyone’s guess because different trends have no set time frame to how long they are going last. Trends whether what nature they are come and go and other develop in another ones place. Changes over time in crime trends and patterns have significant consequences, which affect the criminal justice system as well as to the essential departments because if one were to look at â€Å"such areas as health, housing, and employment consistent trends ad patterns emerge, whereas America lacks the information and comprehensive research on crime trends† (Goldberger, 2008).

Green Walls: Benefits in the Contemporary City

Green Walls: Benefits in the Contemporary City INTRODUCTION Green wall and its necessity The living, organic systems characterized by green walls, are integrated with the inorganic and lifeless structures are dominating modern architecture and holds the promise of a new type of living architecture. Green walls are generally walls that are part of the Building covered with vegetation. They are like vertical garden mostly formed with creeper system on the exterior wall with the roots on the ground or with free standing vertically framed wall with different native plants grown on the surface. They are also termed as bio walls or living walls since they act as natural air-conditioner as they purifies and cools the ambient air to a large extent creating a healthy environment. The deepest threat of global warming is the rapid urbanization and deforestation. There is a considerable increase of co2 emission and heat transfer. This impact is extreme in the urban condition where the vegetation/ greenery are sparse. Also in the urban conditions mostly all the buildings are glazed and air-conditioned with out any ways of neither thermal insulation, nor are they shaded with thick surrounding landscape. This is basically due to the space constraints and optimization. In such challenging cases Green wall is the best alternative which acts as a good shading device against heat gain and energy losses, pollution etc. Hence, Green walls are must in urban conditions. Economic and Environmental benefits of Green walls The economic and environmental benefits are many. They result in substantial energy savings, extension of building life, CO2 capture, acoustics and Aesthetics. Energy Conservation: Vegetation on walls can assist in cooling buildings in summer and insulating them in winter. Reduction of thermal loading to buildings results lower heating and cooling costs which in turn lowers carbon emissions. Jacklyn Johnston and John Newton (2004) Health: These climbing plants on green walls filter out dust and other pollutants. Jacklyn Johnston and John Newton (2004) Reduction of heat island effect results in less reflected heat. Air purification: plants filter pollution especially when used inside buildings. Noise attenuation: It acts as sound barrier resulting in quieter buildings and streets. Green walls can collect over 30kgs per m2 of rainwater. Increased urban biomass. Jacklyn Johnston and John Newton (2004) clears the fact that There is a widespread belief that plants are inimical to built structures, ripping out mortar and prising apart joints with their roots. The evidence suggests that these problems have been greatly exaggerated, except where decay has already set in and then plants can indeed accelerate the process of deterioration. There is little evidence that plants damage walls. In fact in most of the cases the exact opposite is true, with plants covering the wall helps in protecting the wall from harmful elements, solar radiation which in turn reduces the thermic tensions within the structure. Indigenous sustainable elements and their benefits Indigenous sustainable elements are the simple elements which are locally available and considered as waste or least prioritized. For example, the coconut shells in the country like India which are available in abundance are just disposed or burnt to ashes even though they have high thermal coefficient and suitability for insulation/ acoustics. Similarly, materials like Clay, Bamboo, Jungle/ Pine/Rubber wood, Cork etc carry untarnishing effect in the field of sustainable Architecture when used appropriately. Apart from their interesting characteristic they are also economic. RESEARCH QUESTION/OBJECTIVE: Does green wall need to be green? The realistic objective of this research is to create more enjoyable greener cities which in turn bring numerous benefits to the surrounding environment. In the almost all the Urban locations of the world where the CO2 emission is extremely high due to various factors have hardly any good vegetation to control environmental pollution. Unfortunately, in such locations the concept of sustainability like Green wall gets relegated to the second spot due to construction and maintenance cost. The idea is to address to these areas and also to enhance the benefits of Green walls with some medicinal value. This needs to be achieved by identifying native herbal plants and also, to study and innovate in the area of low cost indigenous elements like coconut shells, bamboo, cane, Jute, cork, ect as construction materials to supplement to sustainable design. LITERATURE REVIEW: Green walls are slowly gaining value and are considered valuable for cooling the Urban space than green roofs in countries like Japan. But the green wall is still new to countries like India and china. Jacklyn Johnston and John Newton (2004) states that This is a great pity, because even in those cities relatively well endowed with greenspace many areas can justifiably be regarded as deserts in biological terms. Nigel Dunnett and Noel Kingsbury (2004) Green wall is widely practiced in Europe and it is quite common in France and Germany to see house covered in Virginia creeper or vines which are influenced by Mediterranean climate. Jacklyn Johnston and John Newton (2004) states that We need appropriate development which incorporates an ecological approach to building and landscape. This means that the land lost in the construction of buildings and roads should be replaced with a layer of plants on the hard surfaces. By this way green skin can be strategically added to create a new net work of vegetation linking roofs, courtyards, walls and open spaces. Different types of green walls There are two different types: Green facades and Living walls Green faà §ades: are wall systems where plants cover supporting structures rooted at the base of the structure. Supporting structure can either be a existing wall or built as freestanding structures. Living walls: (also called bio walls or vertical gardens) composed of pre-vegetated modular panels that are fixed to a structural wall or freestanding frame. Modular panels comprises of polypropylene plastic containers, geotextiles, irrigation system, growing medium and vegetation. Living walls can be installed on the exterior of a building in full sun, shade, and interior of a building. They grow well in both tropical and temperate climate. Due to huge variety of plants used, living walls require more intensive maintenance than green facades like regular watering, adding nutrients and fertilizers. Different types of green faà §ade support structures The two primary types are Modular trellis systems: Panels which are rigid and lightweight are installed vertically as wall-mounted or freestanding. They can also be used on tall buildings along side with intermediate planters. Modular trellis systems are essential where the physical growth of climbing plants is restricted. Freestanding structures: are rigid panels such as green columns or canopy forms that can be placed on either on building walls where either the space is limited or load is restricted. The panels can also be used as shading devices for a open parking area. Cable and rope wire systems: this system consist high-tensile steel cables, wire trellises, spacers, and additional equipment. Vertical and horizontal wires are connected through cross clamps to form a trellis system of desired sizes and patterns. Stainless steel wire-rope net is supported on flexible or rigid frames to cover large areas. Best plant types to use for green walls Jacklyn Johnston and John Newton (2004) Considering the relationship between the types of plant used and the aspect of the walls where they will grow is also a very important aspect. Deciduous plants are the most suitable on the south side of a building. In the summer their dense foliage shields the building from sunlight and creates cooling effect. In winter leaves are shed, allowing sunlight to reach the surface of the wall so helping to warm the interior of the building. Similarly on a west-facing wall it is sensible to use evergreens to protect the building from rain and provide a cushion of air to help insulation. North facing walls are best for supporting native herbs and wider ranges of plants. East walls may fall into either category. Plants used on exterior building walls are exposed to harsher climactic surroundings than those of indoors. Hence for building that intend to reach great heights, more hardy species of plants should be selected. Similarly, for less plant friendly climates, climbers that are tolerant for wind and heat should be selected. Nigel Dunnett and Noel Kingsbury (2004) On wooden walls and other structures, species with very heavy growth or a thick branching habit should be avoided, as the structure may not be able to support the weight. Plant selection will have major impact on the design of the supporting system. For instance, a denser and faster growing plant will require a larger space between supports than less aggressive plant species. The density of plant life further impacts the underlying structure. Greater the leaf surface area, the more impact rain will have on the weight of the system. Green wall installation and maintenance Jacklyn Johnston and John Newton (2004) Small herbaceous species are able to grow on walls by taking root in the substance of the wall itself. But other species are naturally adapted to climbing up and over obstacles such as rock faces, trees and shrubs. Some kind of support structure is essential for these plants to grow successfully. For example, climbers such as hops support themselves by spiralling upwards around an object. They will require timber battens, trellis work, steel cables or plastic ropes. Although some creeper can cling directly onto walls by their roots, they require a rough surface to enable them to do so. Rambling plants such as bramble and climbing rose need wide-meshed grid structures to which they can be attached. A 50x50cm latticework of treated timber mounted on wooden posts (or an equivalent structure using cables, rope or netting) will provide an adequate support for a range of species. Whenever possible it is sensible to leave little gap between the faà § ade of the building and the supporting structure to maximise the effects of summer cooling and winter insulation. The structures help in distributing the weight of the plants across the supporting structure and wall. In cable and rope wire systems, anchors and turnbuckles have to be installed at the end of each cable for tightening and adjustments as and when required. Jacklyn Johnston and John Newton (2004) Polypropylene cladding tiles incorporates waterproof membranes and their own irrigation system. Plants could be established on these and then hung on the outside of a building. Depending on species, climbing plants generally require a good supply of water and occasional pruning. Supporting structures require less maintenance, with only occasional monitoring of the supporting structure. Jacklyn Johnston and John Newton (2004) For climbing plants the ground should be prepared just like for any tree or shrub by creating a pit and adding in some compost to the top 30cm.Pre-grown panels for living walls needs 6-12 months for plants to grow prior to delivery and installation. The panels are grown horizontally until it is shipped to the site after which it can be mounted vertically. Climbing plants should be selected that do not provide a food source for unwanted pests and insects. Excessive growth or dead wood should be removed periodically and standing water should be avoided. LEED points for using green walls LEED has several credits for green walls when used in buildings. Sustainable Sites Credit 7.1: Landscape Design that Reduces Urban Heat Islands (1 point). Solar reflectance of a building is greatly reduced by exterior green walls, thus reducing the urban heat island effect. Water Efficiency Credits 1.1, 1.2: Water Efficient Landscaping (1 to 2 points). Harvested stormwater can be used for watering the plants of the green walls. Usage only collected, recycled, or nonpotable water may also add on to this credit. Water Efficiency Credit 2: Innovative Wastewater Technologies (1 point). Green walls can act as a medium for utilizing wastewater treatment. Energy and Atmosphere Credit 1: Optimize Energy Performance (1 to 10 points). Buildings mechanical systems usage can be reduced greatly by green walls which acts as additional insulation for the structure and also provides natural cooling. Innovation in Design Credits 1-4: Innovation in Design (1 to 4 points). Green walls can contribute to innovative wastewater management or ventilation systems. KNOWLEDGES AND GAPS What is the awareness on Green walls in the countries like India? Green Building Movement in India Catalysts and Course India is witnessing incredible growth in infrastructure and construction sector. The construction industry in India happens to be one of the largest economic activities. As this sector is growing speedily, preserving the environment poses lot of challenges and at the same time presents opportunities. The construction sector therefore needs to contribute towards environmental responsibility. Green wall concepts are at emerging stage in India primarily due to high initial cost and lack of a native product to address the same. But still it offers great potential which asks for greater understanding and evolving an indigenous product by Indian Architects/ Landscape designers. How cost conscious developed countries are and how it is important? Most of the developed countries are focused on the technology of future and the art of modern architecture plays vital role where the value of simple indigenous elements gets neglected. In that case, even in the name of modernization most of the developing countries are also getting inspired by the developed countries. Cost effective design always carries value at the time of crisis and recession. It also speaks its untouched charm as they are formed mostly with natural elements. INNOVATION: An Indian based Agriculturalist who tried organic farming elunkathir pannai with the protection of bio fence created with the native herbals and plants. The result proved to be astonishing and achieved good yield. The interesting secrete behind it is, all the air born pests are filtered and killed by naturally available herbal predators. This inspires and even strengthens the concept of Green walls for the urban spaces also. And that is one of my initiative and part of the research using native herbals to achieve medicinal benefits. Sustainability is largely being practised in various fields. But in most of the cases they are not cost effective. The other part of my innovation is to adapt low cost sustainable design with simple indigenous elements like Coconut shell, Clay plaster, Cork, Bamboo, Jungle/pine wood etc. at appropriate areas. DATA AND INFORMATION TO BE COLLECTED: Details of Green wall construction/installation Supports and frames Plants species for indoor and out door Irrigation system details Lighting details Maintenance Samples How to collect data and How to analyse it? Already gathering information from the service providers of various places on green wall construction and maintenance aspects. In the process of getting associated with a Horticulturalist/ Agriculturalist to get details on the plants species and their behaviour. Apart from the above, I have collected sufficient literature to move forward. Also, analysis of each element will be carried out through models and tools by collecting all the required samples from the mentioned resources. PLANNING The concept of green wall has to be incorporated in design and the same will be detailed and fine-tuned towards the research topic as a study model. As part of innovative design the usage of indigenous sustainable elements will also be adopted. Characteristics of the indigenous elements available in the developing countries like India are enormous. Will plan them appropriately in design specification based on their characteristics and also, complying with ergonomic standards. POSSIBLE OUTCOME Considering all the urban spaces which are completely responsible for the curse Global warming on this mother earth, as a responsible Architect would work towards through my dissertation to manifest and prove Green walls and other simple indigenous materials as affordable solution for all the Urban conditions and justify the usage of green wall for a space which is non-Air-conditioned. The other issue which is threatening the world is the recession which also calls for innovative cost effective practise in the construction and specification. Initiative to achieve the same with cost effective indigenous materials is a challenge yet it will be proven possible. It is always better to plan and protect, rather than repent and repair Bibliography: Property World- August 2009 The Hindu-Elunkathirpannai- Arunachlam-Thursday,2008 The Architects Journal, Building Library Starting with Plants-Dougherty, David Green walls Austrialia Pvt ltd. www.greenscreen.com http://www.greenscreen.com/home.html http://www.bdcnetwork.com/article/379033-6_Things_You_Need_to_Know_About_Green_Walls.php Green Building Movement in India Catalysts and Course Was the League of Nations a Success or Failure? Was the League of Nations a Success or Failure? In what ways was the League of Nations a predecessor to the UN? Was the League successful in its goal of protecting minorities throughout Europe in the wake of WWI? While the League of Nations was created after the end of World War One to prevent war from ever breaking out again, a few years later World War Two broke out shocking the world with its lack of response to defuse the situation. Though many people only discuss the epic failure of the League of Nations it is important to realize that the League of Nations was semi-successful in its goal of protecting minorities throughout Europe after World War One and was a predecessor to the United Nations. To understand the League of Nations it is important to go over the reasons why it was created and its organizational structure. Based on President Woodrow Wilsons, 1918 address to the United States Congress, where he spoke of his desire to create a world dedicated to justice and fair dealing(Wilson 1918) which later became the Fourteen Points program. This program included explicit references to the rights to self-determination and statehoods for nations seeking freedom (Wilson 1918). The League of Nations was created after the end of World War One to prevent war from ever breaking out again. After the turmoil, the Versailles Treaty in 1919 established the League of Nations to bring stability to the world. The world was horrified by the slaughter that had taken place in what was meant to be in the civilized part of the world. The only way to avoid having such atrocities to repeat, a need for an international body whose sole purpose was to maintain world peace and sort out internation al dilemmas when and if they ever occurred again was needed (Clapham 2007). Other than the United States, who was too busy with the root of isolationism, support for the League of Nations was strong. The League of Nations was to be based in Geneva, Switzerland as it was a neutral county and had not been involved in World War One. With its establishment the League of Nations and its Covenant, addressed the rights of minorities, workers rights, right of women and children, refugees and slavery (Freeman 2005). Also according to the League of Nations Covenant there were three things that could be done to resolve a dispute. One way it states to resolve this dispute is to have the states in the dispute sit and discuss their problems in an orderly fashion in the Leagues Assembly, which is similar to a parliament or the current United Nations parliament. If there is an aggressor then the League would and can verbally warn the aggressor nation. If nothing came from the Assemblys decision then the League of Nations could propose to introduce economic sanctions against the aggressor nation (Covenant 1919). The logic behind this action was to financially aggravate the aggressor country so th ey would follow and give into the League of Nations and their requirements. The League of Nations could order other League Members to not trade with an aggressor nation and if this failed as well then militarily force would be used to put the aggressor nation into place. The only problem with this concept was that the League of Nations did not have a military force that they could use and no member of the new League of Nations was required to provide any military help under the terms of joining which is different from the current United Nations where if joined with the United Nations military help is a requirement. This lead to the League not being able to carry out any of its threats. Due to the atrocities and severe depletion of many major armies it was hard for even first world nations such as Great Britain and France to provide military strength to help the League of Nations. Another weakness that the League of Nations had was the lack of support from the founding fathers country; the United States. Though Woodrow Wilson came up with the the foundation of the League of Nations with his Fourteen Points speech, he refused to join the League of Nations as the United States was fulling its desire for isolation. This was a serious blow to the prestige of the League. A few other problems with the League of Nations was that Germany was not allowed to join because it had started World War One, according to the Versailles treaty. This was a great low point for both the League of Nations and Germany, as they both could not help each other out again other aggressor nations such as Russia and Japan. Russia was not allowed to join because in 1917 there was a communist government that created fear in western Europe. This also created a hole in the League of Nations because this depleted them of another potential military power to help keep order in the world. Though the weaknesses were mentioned earlier in the paper is it important to remember the successes that the League of Nations also had. The League aimed to promote international cooperation in economic and social affairs. Under the League of Nations the council was active in the protection of workers rights. Their goal of fair and humane conditions of labor for all men, women and children (Covenant 1919) became the central focus of the International Labor Organization (ILO) which still continues to be one of the United Nations specialized agencies (Clapham 2007). Workers rights were to be recognized and protected even though they were in place by governments for their own state interests rather than individual interests. Some governments feared their population would turn communist and thus recognized workers rights. The League of Nations was also successful in setting up a commission on slavery and adopted the 1926 Slavery convention, putting an end to slavery. They also developed conventions on the traffic of women and children (Clapham 2007) A few of the League of Nations decisions protected the rights of minorities in Europe while it was in existence. In the Aaland Islands, 1921, near Finland and Sweden, most of the islanders wanted to be governed by Sweden even though traditionally it had always been governed by Finland. Neither Sweden nor Finland could come to a decision as to who owned the islands and in 1921 they asked the League to adjudicate. The Leagues decision was that they should remain with Finland but that no weapons should ever be kept there. Both countries accepted the decision and it remains in force to this day. Though the minorities did not get as they wanted they were given the opportunity to speak up to the League and help make a decision peacefully. The face that the decision is still in force today is a wonderful concept. Though the League of Nations was a political failure it established a groundwork for the current United Nations and its strong commitment to Human Rights. Turkey (1923) The League failed to stop a bloody war in Turkey (see League failures) but it did respond to the humanitarian crisis caused by this war. 1,400,000 refugees had been created by this war with 80% of them being women and children. Typhoid and cholera were rampant. The League sent doctors from the Health Organisation to check the spread of disease and it spent  £10 million on building farms, homes etc for the refugees. Money was also invested in seeds, wells and digging tools and by 1926, work was found for 600,000 people. A member of the League called this work the greatest work of mercy which mankind has undertaken. Greece and Bulgaria (1925) Both these nations have a common border. In 1925, sentries patrolling this border fired on one another and a Greek soldier was killed. The Greek army invaded Bulgaria as a result. The Bulgarians asked the League for help and the League ordered both armies to stop fighting and that the Greeks should pull out of Bulgaria. The League then sent experts to the area and decided that Greece was to blame and fined her  £45,000. Both nations accepted the decision. The failures of the League of Nations Article 11 of the Leagues Covenant stated: Any war of threat of war is a matter of concern to the whole League and the League shall take action that may safe guard peace. Therefore, any conflict between nations which ended in war and the victor of one over the other must be considered a League failure. Italy (1919) In 1919, Italian nationalists, angered that the Big Three had, in their opinion, broken promises to Italy at the Treaty of Versailles, captured the small port of Fiume. This port had been given to Yugoslavia by the Treaty of Versailles. For 15 months, Fiume was governed by an Italian nationalist called dAnnunzio. The newly created League did nothing. The situation was solved by the Italian government who could not accept that dAnnunzio was seemingly more popular than they were so they bombarded the port of Fiume and enforced a surrender. In all this the League played no part despite the fact that it had just been set up with the specific task of maintaining peace. Teschen (1919) Teschen was a small town between Poland and Czechoslovakia. Its main importance was that it had valuable coal mines there which both the Poles and the Czechs wanted. As both were newly created nations, both wanted to make their respective economies as strong as possible and the acquisition of rich coal mines would certainly help in this respect. In January 1919, Polish and Czech troops fought in the streets of Teschen. Many died. The League was called on to help and decided that the bulk of the town should go to Poland while Czechoslovakia should have one of Teschens suburbs. This suburb contained the most valuable coal mines and the Poles refused to accept this decision. Though no more wholesale violence took place, the two countries continued to argue over the issue for the next twenty years. Vilna (1920) Many years before 1920, Vilna had been taken over by Russia. Historically, Vilna had been the capital of Lithuania when the state had existed in the Middle Ages. After World War One, Lithuania had been re-established and Vilna seemed the natural choice for its capital. However, by 1920, 30% of the population was from Poland with Lithuanians only making up 2% of the citys population. In 1920, the Poles seized Vilna. Lithuania asked for League help but the Poles could not be persuaded to leave the city. Vilna stayed in Polish hands until the outbreak of World War Two. The use of force by the Poles had won. War between Russia and Poland (1920 to 1921) In 1920, Poland invaded land held by the Russians. The Poles quickly overwhelmed the Russian army and made a swift advance into Russia. By 1921, the Russians had no choice but to sign the Treaty of Riga which handed over to Poland nearly 80,000 square kilometres of Russian land. This one treaty all but doubled the size of Poland. What did the League do about this violation of another country by Poland? The answer is simple nothing. Russia by 1919 was communist and this plague from the East was greatly feared by the West. In fact, Britain, France and America sent troops to attack Russia after the League had been set up. Winston Churchill, the British War Minister, stated openly that the plan was to strangle Communist Russia at birth. Once again, to outsiders, it seemed as if League members were selecting which countries were acceptable and ones which were not. The Allied invasion of Russia was a failure and it only served to make Communist Russia even more antagonistic to the West. The invasion of the Ruhr (1923) The Treaty of Versailles had ordered Weimar Germany to pay reparations for war damages. These could either be paid in money or in kind (goods to the value of a set amount) In 1922, the Germans failed to pay an installment. They claimed that they simply could not rather than did not want to. The Allies refused to accept this and the anti-German feeling at this time was still strong. Both the French and the Belgiums believed that some form of strong action was needed to teach Germany a lesson. In 1923, contrary to League rules, the French and the Belgiums invaded the Ruhr Germanys most important industrial zone. Within Europe, France was seen as a senior League member like Britain and the anti-German feeling that was felt throughout Europe allowed both France and Belgium to break their own rules as were introduced by the League. Here were two League members clearly breaking League rules and nothing was done about it. For the League to enforce its will, it needed the support of its major backers in Europe, Britain and France. Yet France was one of the invaders and Britain was a major supporter of her. To other nations, it seemed that if you wanted to break League rules, you could. Few countries criticised what France and Belgium did. But the example they set for others in future years was obvious. The League clearly failed on this occasion, primarily because it was seen to be involved in breaking its own rules. Italy and Albania (1923) The border between Italy and Albania was far from clear and the Treaty of Versailles had never really addressed this issue. It was a constant source of irritation between both nations. In 1923, a mixed nationality survey team was sent out to settle the issue. Whilst travelling to the disputed area, the Italian section of the survey team, became separated from the main party. The five Italians were shot by gunmen who had been in hiding. Italy accused Greece of planning the whole incident and demanded payment of a large fine. Greece refused to pay up. In response, the Italians sent its navy to the Greek island of Corfu and bombarded the coastline. Greece appealed to the League for help but Italy, lead by Benito Mussolini, persuaded the League via the Conference of Ambassadors, to fine Greece 50 million lire. To follow up this success, Mussolini invited the Yugoslavian government to discuss ownership of Fiume. The Treaty of Versailles had given Fiume to Yugoslavia but with the evidence of a bombarded Corfu, the Yugoslavs handed over the port to Italy with little argument The social successes of the League of Nations At a social level the League did have success and most of this is easily forgotten with its failure at a political level. Many of the groups that work for the United Nations now, grew out of what was established by the League. Teams were sent to the Third World to dig fresh water wells, the Health Organisation started a campaign to wipe out leprosy. This idea of wiping out from the world a disease was taken up by the United Nations with its smallpox campaign. Work was done in the Third World to improve the status of women there and child slave labour was also targeted. Drug addiction and drug smuggling were also attacked. These problems are still with us in the C21st so it would be wrong to criticise the League for failing to eradicate them. If we cannot do this now, the League had a far more difficult task then with more limited resources. The greatest success the League had involving these social issues, was simply informing the world at large that these problems did exist and that they should be tackled. No organisation had done this before the League. These social problems may have continued but the fact that they were now being actively investigated by the League and were then taken onboard by the United Nations must be viewed as a success. In order to promote international cooperation and to achieve international peace and security by the acceptance of obligations not to resort to war, by the prescription of open, just and honourable relations between nations, by the firm establishment of the understandings of international law as the actual rule of conduct among Governments, and by the maintenance of justice and a scrupulous respect for all treaty obligations in the dealings of organised peoples with one another, Agree to this Covenant of the League of Nations.

Lithuanian Economy Essay -- Economy, Low Cost Transactions

Introduction In my research project I will be talking about the history of Lithuanian economy and how it had changed since the country became independent and took a place as a member of a European Union. In my work you will be able to see different points of view of being a citizen of the EU and the problems the countries are facing to get this membership. Lithuania’s membership in the European Union would be impossible without the public assent and support. This support was made most explicit during the referendum on the membership in the European Union on 10-11 May 2003, when 91.07% of those participating (the turnout was 63.37%) approved of Lithuania’s accession to the EU. (Euro 2007) The Lithuanian economy has reached high growth rates in the last decade as it entered the European Union together with other Baltic states. The government went in for a flat tax; the unemployment rates were fairly low until a recent recession began. Lithuania has been changing over from the communist planned economy in the Soviet Union since; it got independence that is 1990. Although Lithuania suffered a lot from U.S.S.R. it still kept a good relationship and nowadays Russia is one of the main traders with Lithuania. However, it faced its own economic and financial crisis in 1999, partly due to the 1998 Russian financial crisis. Since then Lithuania had changed its views towards the European Union; it became a member of EU on 1st May 2004. (Wikipedia, 2009) According to the survey of market participants in January and February 2004, the Lithuanian economy grew rapidly. The financial situation of Lithuanian companies improved and the costs of borrowing declined in 2003. At that time GDP in Lithuania reached over 10%. Economic growt... ...e accurate. As I was doing some research for this project I found that the government did this kind of survey in Lithuania, to find out what was general public opinion before Lithuania became EU member. In 2003 over 91% did the survey and almost 64% agreed with Lithuania going for EU membership. The same survey was repeated few years later. What did not surprise me was that people opinion changed after accession to EU. In the survey done in 2008 over 75% of the Lithuanians agreed that Lithuania has benefited from EU membership. In my research plan I would like to do this kind of questionnaire where I could see how the people agree and disagree with membership of EU. I would question them on their perceptions of how membership has affected their country. Also what changes they would like to see especially in areas, which they see as problematic.

Tiger for Sony :: essays research papers

If Sony is hinting at OS X and Linux, there's also a good chance they could be developing a proprietary OS. The PS3 will have to support HDMI-HDCP output since the old DVI standard can no longer be implemented. HDMI has definitely been in Sony's interests as it is a huge media vendor with SCEA and Sony Pictures. Yet giving out a game system with HDCP-HDMI output for HDTV gaming while putting an open source operating system like Linux on a single machine is kind of insane. You can't put the 'hacker's OS' on a relatively cheap Blu-Ray/computer/gaming machine and not expect piracy. You can put it on the PS2 with an HDD which would be a relatively cheap DVD/psuedo-computer/gaming machine- but due to the nature of the compatibility of the PS3 spec- it will be much more tempting to commit piracy on a PS3 than a PS2, and a PS3 with Linux than an Xbox360. This implementation of Linux would be asking for easier copyright-protection-overrides than the Xbox currently suffers (a soft-mod here, a network cable there- Linux and Evox in of their illegal game copying glory.) The PS2 made consumers realize the PS wasn't as rare a thing as they'd thought. The PS3 will make consumers realize the PS2 was an introduction into an industry larger than film, and that film-quality games have their very beautiful appeal. Yet Linux would definitely drive sales- a large portion of Windows users hear about Linux' supposed superiority and don't care, but sure wouldn't mind it if a Linux machine fell into their lap with a GUI comprabale to Windows. The PS3 part won't be too shabby either. I'd say they'll have a Linux-like full-fledged proprietary OS with a bunch of root restrictions to make it harder to override it with another OS, learning from MS' mistake on the Xbox. I can possibly see Sony eventually giving consumers ability to put Longhorn on PS3. It would have the competivite/ironic edge consumers would adore. "The MS OS can't run on Xbox360, but it sure can run on PS3." Longhorn will be super-feature-rich in terms of copyright control technologies, avail in Sony's interests. In that scenario, MS could even be forced to follow Sony in putting Longhorn on its Xbox360, but I doubt consumers would forget Sony did it first. Its pretty doubtul, but if Sony elaborated on such an idea with action I think we could expect great things in terms of revenue and support. Tiger for Sony :: essays research papers If Sony is hinting at OS X and Linux, there's also a good chance they could be developing a proprietary OS. The PS3 will have to support HDMI-HDCP output since the old DVI standard can no longer be implemented. HDMI has definitely been in Sony's interests as it is a huge media vendor with SCEA and Sony Pictures. Yet giving out a game system with HDCP-HDMI output for HDTV gaming while putting an open source operating system like Linux on a single machine is kind of insane. You can't put the 'hacker's OS' on a relatively cheap Blu-Ray/computer/gaming machine and not expect piracy. You can put it on the PS2 with an HDD which would be a relatively cheap DVD/psuedo-computer/gaming machine- but due to the nature of the compatibility of the PS3 spec- it will be much more tempting to commit piracy on a PS3 than a PS2, and a PS3 with Linux than an Xbox360. This implementation of Linux would be asking for easier copyright-protection-overrides than the Xbox currently suffers (a soft-mod here, a network cable there- Linux and Evox in of their illegal game copying glory.) The PS2 made consumers realize the PS wasn't as rare a thing as they'd thought. The PS3 will make consumers realize the PS2 was an introduction into an industry larger than film, and that film-quality games have their very beautiful appeal. Yet Linux would definitely drive sales- a large portion of Windows users hear about Linux' supposed superiority and don't care, but sure wouldn't mind it if a Linux machine fell into their lap with a GUI comprabale to Windows. The PS3 part won't be too shabby either. I'd say they'll have a Linux-like full-fledged proprietary OS with a bunch of root restrictions to make it harder to override it with another OS, learning from MS' mistake on the Xbox. I can possibly see Sony eventually giving consumers ability to put Longhorn on PS3. It would have the competivite/ironic edge consumers would adore. "The MS OS can't run on Xbox360, but it sure can run on PS3." Longhorn will be super-feature-rich in terms of copyright control technologies, avail in Sony's interests. In that scenario, MS could even be forced to follow Sony in putting Longhorn on its Xbox360, but I doubt consumers would forget Sony did it first. Its pretty doubtul, but if Sony elaborated on such an idea with action I think we could expect great things in terms of revenue and support.

The True Beast in Othello Essay -- Othello essays

The True Beast in Othello      Ã‚  Ã‚   "What is left when honor is lost?" This maxim from first century BC plays a pivotal role in Shakespeare’s play Othello. The question serves as a basis for the struggle between Othello and Iago. Both men are engaged in a battle over Othello’s honor. Iago is intent on destroying Othello’s sense of honor and reducing him to a bestial state. Iago views Othello as a beast masquerading in warrior’s dress. He wants to return Othello to what he believes to be his natural bestial state, and he realizes that to achieve this goal he must dupe Othello into violating his code of honor. Ironically, as Iago tries to unmask Othello’s bestiality, it is the beast within Iago that is exposed. From the beginning of the play, Iago’s view of Othello as a beast is obvious. Iago repeatedly describes Othello in terms of animals. When Iago attempts to incite Brabantio’s anger, he does so by referring to Othello in vulgar, bestial terms. He says to Brabantio, "Even now, now, very now, an old black ram / Is tuping your white ewe" (1.1.89-90). He continues with, "you’ll have your daughter cover’d with a Barbary horse; / you’ll have your nephews neigh to you; / you’ll have coursers for cousins and gennets for germans" (1.1.110-114). He even exclaims to Brabantio that "your daughter and the Moor are now making the beast with two backs" (1.1.117-118). Each of these animalistic phrases could be viewed only as Iago’s attempt to anger Brabantio if it were not for the fact that Iago also refers to Othello as an animal when he is alone. In his soliloquy at the end of Act 1, Iago says that Othello "will as tenderly be led by th’nose / As asses are" (1.3.395-936). He again refers to Othello as an ass in Act 2: "Make the Mo... ...question, "What is left when honor is lost?" His answer comes from the mouth of Cassio: "Reputation, reputation, reputation! / O, I have lost my reputation! I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial" (2.3.254-256).    Works Cited Bandello, Matteo. "Certaine Tragicall Discourses of Bandello." Trans. Geoffrey Fenton. Narrative and Dramatic Sources of Shakespeare. Ed. Geoffrey Bullough. Vol. 7. New York: Columbia UP, 1973. Cinthio, Giovanni. "Gli Hecatommithi." Narrative and Dramatic Sources of Shakespeare. Ed. Geoffrey Bullough. Vol. 7. New York: Columbia UP, 1973. Physiologus. The Book of Beasts: Being a Translation From a Latin Bestiary of the Twelfth Century. Ed. T. H. White. London: Jonathan Cape, 1954. Shakespeare, William. "Othello." The Complete Works of William Shakespeare. London: Collins, 1951.

Classroom Observation Critique Essay

The goal of using think aloud in reading a text is to help students develop the ability to monitor their reading comprehension and use strategies to facilitate understanding. Studies show that students who verbalize their thoughts while reading score significantly higher on comprehension tests. The Teacher The teacher has a pleasing personality, which I think the reason that draws pupils’ eyes to the teacher’s face and listen to her voice. For the whole duration of my teaching profession, I have observed that the teacher’s appearance greatly affects students’ attention. The more beautiful the teacher is, the more attentive the students are, especially at the opening of classes. This led me to recall my elementary and high school years when I liked more my pretty teachers than those that are not so pretty. As a teacher right now, this can be very subjective and should not to be the sole basis in assessing teacher performance. However, every teacher should strive to look at their best every day. The teacher is confident and shows mastery of the subject matter. I believe this is very important because it is where we build trust from our students. And because the students trust you, they are more than willing to open themselves and ask you everything they need to know. The teacher answers the students’ questions in a simple and understandable way. In this manner, there is total understanding on the part of the students. Every teacher should make sure that all questions and clarifications raised by the students must be thoroughly answered and cleared. The teacher maintains discipline and control of the class. I believe this is one strong aspect of classroom management. At the beginning of the class, the teacher sets the mood where she is enthusiastic and maintains a warm and friendly atmosphere conducive to learning. She also avoids making embarrassing remarks about the student’s ideas or actions. In return, the students respect and admire her. She successfully establishes rapport with her students. The Teaching Procedure Introduction/Before Reading The teacher starts with a class discussion: What strategies do good readers use to make meaning of the text? In a class size of 20-30, each student is given the chance to speak of his/her thoughts. This follows that smaller class size is more well-attended to by the teacher compared with 40-50 students in a class, where, only a fraction of the students speak up because it would take a lot of time and the teacher is obliged to proceed to the next activity. After which, the teacher presents the term â€Å"think aloud† to the students and have them brainstorm and report on how it might be used in reading. The groups of four (4) actually make the correct guesses on how they understand the term given. Then, the teacher distributes the bookmarks with different strategies of thinking aloud written on it. Later, strips of paper with definitions of the strategies are distributed for matchmaking. Before the answers are revealed, the students are tasked to what they think of the strategies. In this kind of activity, the students get to compare their reports/answers with the list given and survey themselves how often they use these active reading strategies before. During Reading Students receive three post it notes. They label them: BEFORE READING, DURING READING and AFTER READING. The use of colorful post it notes in this activity keeps the flow of active participation. Colors, especially the bright ones, add life to our classroom activities. This is because colors stimulate our creative expression, lending excitement and interest. The use of small things like the bookmarks and post its, enhances students’ manipulative tendencies. They are also readily available and very handy. Teachers should keep a stack of these. As the teacher models think aloud, students write down on their post it notes what strategies the reader uses before reading, during reading, and after reading. This involves the teacher thinking out loud when working through the problems in the text and demonstrating processes for the students. However, the attention of students is very important. They have to listen and observe well. Then, one after another, the students read the remaining paragraphs in the class and model the kind of think aloud strategy he/she chooses. This is the part where students are provided with enough practice, collaboration, repetition and hands on activity until the students learn on their own. The above activities, as a whole, give more teacher involvement at first; then later, there is less teacher involvement, that is, he/she should only guide the students while they have total responsibility in attaining the required skill. After Reading The class conducts 3-2-1 activity—3 things learned, 2 things liked about the lesson, 1 question one still have. Again, each one has the chance to speak in front. Questions and interpretations are clarified, where the students remember what they have individually created in their minds from the text. This serves the primary purpose of post reading activity which is to provide the students the chance to ask questions concerning their assignments and extension of lesson. Enrichment Activity The students are grouped into four and read a copy of a poem that is unfamiliar to each group while using think aloud strategies. â€Å"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.† – Eleanor Roosevelt