Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Thoughts on the Essays Delpit
My favorite line in Delpit's essay was White teachers: "Let me help you find your voice. I promise not to criticize one note as you search for your own song." Black teachers: "I've heard your song loud and clear. Now, I want to teach you to harmonize with the rest of the world." I like the metaphorical way she portrayed the difference in the educators' teaching tactics. Here, we see the encouragement/discouragement directed to the students. Actually, both essays seemed to incorporate metaphorical passages, which I find a unique way to display what is being said. Evidently, there were a lot of issues arrising about literacy, whites and blacks, their knowledge and their abilities.
Delpits Essay
When I was reading Delpits essay I didn't quite understand what she was getting at when talking about teaching the students as an open-classroom. As I was reading along I started to notice that she was comparing how white and black kids learned in a city school. I discovered that her comparison were leading to how teachers can change the classroom to make it more comfortable for the students to learn and to make sure that they learn at the same pace. I like the way Delpit than took the opinions of her friends and than told how she felt through her point of view. It seem as though in the end her open-classroom idea didn't work because no one wanted to try in progress this idea to make it work in the classroom.
so here's my post
Well I'm going to be honest here, both articles were great but I don't think I got the deep message in either. I understood Jordan's more though because of the examples she used and how she wrote it. I really liked how she put it in "dictionary" like form. It was something that was familar to me which made it much easier to understand. I also liked the story she gave us at the end of the article. It was kind of like putting a face to a name... if that makes sense. If not I guess I'll be explaining myself. :-)
while i was readin the June Jordan essay i laughed the whole time because i understood and agreed with what she was saying. yes racism and discrimination does exist, and i speak on that with personal experience. of all the stories we read for the class, i liked this one most. she had pointed out that white students may excel in school while as black students lag. maybe because most wgite students come from morestable families and homes?
black english
When I first started to read the stories, I couldn't quite get June Jordan was getting across with the metaphor. After awhile, I started to understand it. She really pulled me in that way. Instead of not caring, I was rather intrigued. The story really hits me. It really points out the true signs of racism in today's world. She tells about how the media, police department and others show that discrimination does exist. It's sad but true. I think that everyone should read this paper, because it shows the harsh realities of the somewhat cruel world we live in.
black english
When I first started to read the stories, I couldn't quite get June Jordan was getting across with the metaphor. After awhile, I started to understand it. She really pulled me in that way. Instead of not caring, I was rather intrigued. The story really hits me. It really points out the true signs of racism in today's world. She tells about how the media, police department and others show that discrimination does exist. It's sad but true. I think that everyone should read this paper, because it shows the harsh realities of the somewhat cruel world we live in.
Black English
When I first started reading Jordan's essay I wasn't sure how I would like it. I didn't know what she was trying to say or where she was coming from, but once we "entered" the class room I caught on quickly. The biggest connection that pulled me into this essay was The Color Purple (I read it for my jr. project in highschool). Jordan was shocked when her class couldn't respond at first and then said they couldn't understand it when they were talking in the same dialect that the book was written. This experience made the class want to learn how to write and read black english and it made me realize that we talk differently from the way we read and write. I really liked how through out the essay Jordan shows us the great strides they make with their black english and their set backs (Murder of Willie's brother; deciding to write in black english). Jordan concludes her essay by sharing Willie's essay about his brother's murder. This to me was a very strong conclusion to her essay, and it made me sit back and really think about what she wrote and how true it still is today.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Sympathetic reading: Delpit
When I began reading Delpit essay on different teaching styles for white and black student I seen the way she began going about how black student and how white students learn. The way she point out different details of how she began going about the situation of teaching of the styles she tried. For example the "traditional style" that most teacher go about to get their students to learn.She said that the black student were progressing but they were still lagging behind compared to the white student. I believe from my point of view that it has to do with the different backgrounds that student come from that can be the cause of the learning curve.Delpit also argued about the point of skills and fluency that can create and issue of different students that maybe taking the "SAT" or any standardized test for a fact.
Black English
After reading both essay's I was very moved but them both. The one that June Jordan wrote really touched me because up to this point yes I realized that their was "Black English" but I never really thought about it. After reading the essay, I became more aware with how there is two different ways to speak english. It amazed me how in Jordan's essay the children read "The color Purple" and then came to class the next day and couldn't understand it when it was their own language that they were speaking, they just weren't putting two and two together I guess. It also really touched me that still to this point what Jordan wrote about is still going on in some places which breaks my heart. Both essays are very similar. They talk about the culture of "Black English" and how it affected someone's life and that its still going on today.
Black English
After reading these two stories I never thought that there was such a thing as Black English. Everytime I heard what is known as Black English, I thought it was incorrect English. I found that it was incredibly difficult to understand. I feel that us Americas are always trying to change others to the way we are, and what we do. In the one story the cops killed a black man for no reason. I feel that us Americas are still racism, but us Americas have came a long way with it this issue.
Black English
I think I am going to side with June Jordan on this one, I felt like he/she/it had a great idea with the Black English and the other class. I liked this one because it shows that english isnt really proper to say its a language. I'd say we speak American now, and Black English is just another accent of the American language. Sympathy grew in me when Willie stopped showing up to class, his brother dying and then nobody being able to do anything about it. I didn't really understand what that had to do with Black English except that Willie was all about that class. I thought of what the police did was worng and racist but i still didnt see what a police man killing a black guy had to do with Black English. But it was a good story/essay thing.
Black English
June Jordan's article on Black English was truly inspiring. To be truthful, I never really thought of "Black English" being correct. Not that I thought it was incorrect, I just never really viewed it as the same as how I speak. But after reading this article I defintely found that I have an appreciation for black english, which I never thought I did. As a musical theatre minor, i found it extremely interesting that Jordan used "The Color Purple" as the book to critique. The Musical takes Alice Walker's words and puts them into song. While listening to the song, I can understand what is being sung and the message that is trying to be conveyed, but when I tried to read the lyrics or in this case the excerpts from the book, i found it incredibly difficult to understand. This essay, not only helped me realize that others have a hard time accepting black english, but that I have a hard time as well. I also loved how Jordan incorporated the story of Willie in her article- giving the article two different sides. One side being completly geared towards the learning and teaching of black english, while the other gave concrete example of how the black race is still being treated unfairly in today's soceity. I always thought it really wasn't a problem anymore. I was wrong.
Black English
June Jordan's essay was truly amazing. She wrote about things that I had never thought to be true. I realize there are many forms of English that thirty three countries use today, but I had never truly realized that there was something called "Black English." When I had heard Black English before, I always thought it to be incorrect. After reading this essay I now understand the complexities of this language. I also liked how Jordan incorporated Willie Jordan and his life story. The essay was not just about language and how it differs, but about the way life really was, and still is.
As for the second essay, by Lisa Delpit, I felt that it opened up a lot of controversy on the teaching of black and white students. It explained throughout how white and black children had such different ways of learning, and that although both races seem to learn, white children seem to speed by and understand things more. Towards the end of the essay it began to explain why - black children were never taught the skills of writing, because people never understood that it wasn't just the literacy they needed to learn. White children, taught whether in school or at home, learned the skills of writing and how to put a sentence together at a very early age. Black children, however, were only ever taught the literacy, and barely ever taught at home. I agree with this essay in saying that the program has a lot to work on so that the teachings can be fair.
As for the second essay, by Lisa Delpit, I felt that it opened up a lot of controversy on the teaching of black and white students. It explained throughout how white and black children had such different ways of learning, and that although both races seem to learn, white children seem to speed by and understand things more. Towards the end of the essay it began to explain why - black children were never taught the skills of writing, because people never understood that it wasn't just the literacy they needed to learn. White children, taught whether in school or at home, learned the skills of writing and how to put a sentence together at a very early age. Black children, however, were only ever taught the literacy, and barely ever taught at home. I agree with this essay in saying that the program has a lot to work on so that the teachings can be fair.
Black English
After reading the essays on black english I have a different outlook on how "English" is being taught today. Before reading this, everytime I heard someone speaking, what is known as Black English, I considered it to be wrong. I now have more respect for what is considered Black English. I disagree with how America is constantly trying to change everything to only consisting of one thing, in this case White English. For example, it is mentioned that in India there are over thirty different languages and dialects being spoken. As for June Jordan's essay, I thought it was very emotional. I have heard of cases of black people being targeted by the police, but this one was obviously taken too far. I felt before that America has come along way with racism, but clearly hasn't come far enough.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Black English
I just finished reading June Jordan's essay, and I feel completely moved. Moved emotionally, and intellectually; and I'm very glad to have read such a masterpiece of literature.
Initially I was offended, and thought the notion of a white English and a black English was ridiculous. Ebonics is a dialect. Teaching it formally would be like teaching how to speak English with an Indian accent, or perhaps with a lisp. Furthermore I was angry to hear standard English referred to as white English, and that it was oppressively being taught to everyone...including the 10+% of black Americans.
But after reading on, and really cogitating the issue, I've realized that there's so much truth to what Jordan tells us. Black English has been spoken for about 300yrs. It has definite rules, very formally explained by Jordan, and is an essential characteristic for a huge chunk of our population's culture.
I love how she states "we exist." (at least I'm pretty sure I read that somewhere, can't seem to find it now.) That statement says so much. I realize that in the US a black citizen must shed his culture in exchange for the ability to achieve in the business world. One does not have the option of typing a resume in black English. Jordan makes her point, and has convinced me that one should have such an option. One should exist, and be proud of his heritage.
She goes on to talk about the terrible tragedy of Reggie Jordan, which pounds in the final nail, about racism in America.
The essay was confrontational, moving, personal, and extremely enriching. I especially love the variety of styles and powerful voice she utilizes. I cannot stress enough what an excellent piece this was.
Initially I was offended, and thought the notion of a white English and a black English was ridiculous. Ebonics is a dialect. Teaching it formally would be like teaching how to speak English with an Indian accent, or perhaps with a lisp. Furthermore I was angry to hear standard English referred to as white English, and that it was oppressively being taught to everyone...including the 10+% of black Americans.
But after reading on, and really cogitating the issue, I've realized that there's so much truth to what Jordan tells us. Black English has been spoken for about 300yrs. It has definite rules, very formally explained by Jordan, and is an essential characteristic for a huge chunk of our population's culture.
I love how she states "we exist." (at least I'm pretty sure I read that somewhere, can't seem to find it now.) That statement says so much. I realize that in the US a black citizen must shed his culture in exchange for the ability to achieve in the business world. One does not have the option of typing a resume in black English. Jordan makes her point, and has convinced me that one should have such an option. One should exist, and be proud of his heritage.
She goes on to talk about the terrible tragedy of Reggie Jordan, which pounds in the final nail, about racism in America.
The essay was confrontational, moving, personal, and extremely enriching. I especially love the variety of styles and powerful voice she utilizes. I cannot stress enough what an excellent piece this was.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Hi, my name is Ashley and this is my first time posting because it took me a minute to get familiarized with this program. I was born and raised in West Philly so coming to Kutztown was a huge transition. Despite everything that's going on back home, I personally think it's not the best place to raise a child, but seeing people so close to you with nothing motivates you to be better.
I agree with both Lu's and Rose's outlook. Lu was motivated to do good by her family but struggled in society because of language disputes(as if learning the English language isn't hard enough). Her family did alot to make sure she was literate and was able to survive in the "real world". Rose catered more to those like him. He helped people without jobs and also those with little or no income because they were usually illiterate because of their background not because of their willingness to learn. Rose is passionate about giving the opportunity of a good education to his students because he wasn't given the opportunity as a child. Both Rose and Lu have different backgrounds and experiences that make them great teachers in their own way. I believe the best teachers are the ones who went through stuggles and pulled through rather than the people who have had everything handed to them on a silver platter. The more "pull downs" the more wisdom.
I agree with both Lu's and Rose's outlook. Lu was motivated to do good by her family but struggled in society because of language disputes(as if learning the English language isn't hard enough). Her family did alot to make sure she was literate and was able to survive in the "real world". Rose catered more to those like him. He helped people without jobs and also those with little or no income because they were usually illiterate because of their background not because of their willingness to learn. Rose is passionate about giving the opportunity of a good education to his students because he wasn't given the opportunity as a child. Both Rose and Lu have different backgrounds and experiences that make them great teachers in their own way. I believe the best teachers are the ones who went through stuggles and pulled through rather than the people who have had everything handed to them on a silver platter. The more "pull downs" the more wisdom.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Raymond Williams
My thought on the ideas that Raymond had was that culture is in every shape and form. In the beginning I wanted to know why he started his reading like this then as I went on I seen why. Raymond just creates meaning in his writing that make me read between the lines almost.
Lu and Rose's essays
While reading Lu and Rose essays I established similarities and differences that discusses issues of literacy. The similarities that I saw between readings was that they both were taught to be instructed or to instruct other of reading and writing. The differences that I saw was the educational background. My thoughts of the authors helped me really to relate to the education process of literacy and the real essential of the educational background.
Introduce Myself
Hi!! My name is Pyrnie Calloway and I'm from Harrisburg, Pa. I am sorry I missed out on the assignment because of technical reason but I am writing my blog now so I guess it is alright. I have attended Sci-Tech High and I am here at Ku as a biology major. I love to sing, write songs on my spare time, shop, work out, and just hang out with friends and family to have fun. But that me.
Lu and Rose
There is one main focus between these two authors and that is, being literate is a necessity in life. Lu speaks of her own personal struggles. She tries so hard to balance the English of her house with the Chinese of the outside world. Both the world outside frowns upon the western tongue and the home puts englsih above the Chinese. To use the one language in the wrong setting looked down upon but Lu is so fluent in both they have blended together in her mind. I it necessary for Chinese to spoken outside for success and just is the same for English inside the house and in her parents eyes for success. Rose's story in from the outside looking into the struggles of other people. He wants these people to read knowing that with out this skill they will not be as successful. Both Rose and Lu completely believe in the power literacy gives people and that with this power so many more doors can be opened for people in thier lives.
hi,
I read Rose's and Lu's and I had to agree with them both in that literacy is an issue in America and even moreso throughout the world, in places like China. I would have to say that they basically had the same idea, except that Lu was telling of what she saw and Rose was telling of the people he had helped. Lu seemed to blame literacy on the government and at the time it was a rightous idea. I would have to say that that it how she situated with her struggle. Rose says that people with low income jobs or no jobs at all or people that dont put forth effort in their society are usually illiterate, so then he helps them. All in all i agree with them
I read Rose's and Lu's and I had to agree with them both in that literacy is an issue in America and even moreso throughout the world, in places like China. I would have to say that they basically had the same idea, except that Lu was telling of what she saw and Rose was telling of the people he had helped. Lu seemed to blame literacy on the government and at the time it was a rightous idea. I would have to say that that it how she situated with her struggle. Rose says that people with low income jobs or no jobs at all or people that dont put forth effort in their society are usually illiterate, so then he helps them. All in all i agree with them
Culture is Ordinary
What good everybody, my name is Aaron kerns and I am a second year student here at kutztown. My hobbies include listening to music hang with good people and enjoy my free time in any way possible, basket ball, painting, partying. In response to our first reading I would have to agree with most of what Williams was saying here. Williams presented a valid point throughout this informal piece of literature. Culture is the ordinary to anyone who is in and lives it day by day. By taking your self out of the your own that is when you see the differences. When Williams takes the bus to the mountain top he can see two different cultures. Before him he can view the city with factories and smoke billowing into the sky. Just by turning halfway around he compares the city to the agricultural society in the other direction. Culture is always changing Williams writes I can not deny that. Some traditions will remain but the new members of society will always test and explore new ideas. To sum up culture is the ordinary to you when in your own, but to look in to another culture you that it is in everything the people do.
Lu and Rose
Both Lu and Rose's essays consisted of life experiences. Although, there are some differences that caught my eye. As I read Lu's essay I came to find that she seemed so much more passionate about literature. Growing up, her parents hired a live-in tutor to help them become a bilingual family. She also had to learn a new language for school; Standard Chinese. I think that Lu's interest and concern for literacy is very appropriate, especially in her case. I don't think I could make it through a day of her life. Having to change languages between groups would be complete and utter frustration. Always having to please people just to get by. However, I did not get that same feeling when I read Rose's article. Rose explains the difference between an educated writer and a non-educated writer. It seems all he does is criticize. When I read his article, it felt as though there was no compassion. Just simply facts.
It is easy to say that I found Lu's essay more interesting than Rose's essay. When the writer tries to connect with the reader, its obviously going to be more interesting. I did not feel as good of a connection with Rose as I did with Lu.
It is easy to say that I found Lu's essay more interesting than Rose's essay. When the writer tries to connect with the reader, its obviously going to be more interesting. I did not feel as good of a connection with Rose as I did with Lu.
Lu and Rose's Writing
In Lu's writing I felt that I was able to connect to her story. Although I have not been in her situation the way in which she writes shows her emotion and passion for what she is writing about. With Rose's writing I didn't connect as well to his story. His stories are of other peoples experiences and not of his own, therefore he doesn't write with the same emotion and passion that Lu writes with. Rose focuses more on the facts where as Lu describes her experiences, I feel, giving the reader a better understanding of the situation. However, both writers do explain how important it is to be literate in society.
Lu and Rose
In Lu and Rose's essays they both discussed life experiences. Lu discussed how she learned and adapted to two different languages. Lu discusses her life experiences more than Rose does. Lu was brought up in a family who strongly believed in reading and writing, but in a place where the people did not want the English language spoken. Lu's family gave her extra help and she had an after school tutor. Lu's family was very involved in her education, while Rose's family could not afford extra help. Rose was only educated while at school.
Rose and Lu both used their own life experiences to teach their classes. I think that Lu is very passionate about literacy and reading and writing because she was brought up that way. Her family made sure that she had all the help and tutoring she needed. I think that Rose has such a passion for literacy because he, unlike Lu, was not brought up with the knowledge and understanding in school. I think that he wants people to have the education and opportunities that he was not exposed to while growing up.
Rose and Lu both used their own life experiences to teach their classes. I think that Lu is very passionate about literacy and reading and writing because she was brought up that way. Her family made sure that she had all the help and tutoring she needed. I think that Rose has such a passion for literacy because he, unlike Lu, was not brought up with the knowledge and understanding in school. I think that he wants people to have the education and opportunities that he was not exposed to while growing up.
Lu and Rose response
Reading Lu's essay I was able to connect with her emotions of pleasing everyone. She is very passionate about her understanding of language and her ability to write. At first she is very pleased that she is able to communicate in a way that her classmates can't, but then she becomes insecure and hides her ablitities. Although she has to battle what her parents want and what her school wants, she never gives up her writing. She uses her experiences to help teach others how to write. She wants students to struggle with their writing and to hear the different ideas in their heads not just conform to what the "right" way is.
Rose on the other hand doesn't offer as good of a connect with his writing, yes, he tells about certain people but not enough to really put yourself in their shoes. He says that the people who are there know the basics of reading and writing, but not the basics learned in a school setting. While these people are able to 'survive' on what they know they want and feel the need to learn more to better improve themselves. Rose tells of their struggles to do that.
The people in Rose's essay were able to find the help they needed to work toward the solution to their problem. While in Lu's essay she tells us that she was unable to have help because of the conflicting views between her home and school.
Rose on the other hand doesn't offer as good of a connect with his writing, yes, he tells about certain people but not enough to really put yourself in their shoes. He says that the people who are there know the basics of reading and writing, but not the basics learned in a school setting. While these people are able to 'survive' on what they know they want and feel the need to learn more to better improve themselves. Rose tells of their struggles to do that.
The people in Rose's essay were able to find the help they needed to work toward the solution to their problem. While in Lu's essay she tells us that she was unable to have help because of the conflicting views between her home and school.
Lu and Rose writing
After reading Lu and Rose's writings, Lu speaks more about her life experience than Rose. Lu was brought up between two languages, from a family that thought reading and writing was real important. She would get after school tutoring and extra help. When Rose came from a family that couldn't affort to get her extra help and only got help when she was in school. They both were nervous to talk infront of a group for two different reasons. Rose would get anxious and her proformance would be disrupted. Lu couldn't speak infront of a group because she was scared that her classmates and teacher would hear a different lanuage and they would single her out. Both writings tell how it is so important to be able to read and write.
Response to Lu and Rose
After reading both Lu and Rose's writing, I compared them as we did yesterday in class. I think that Lu could be compared to Raymond Williams because she told a story about herself growing up and the issues she faced. On the other hand, Mike Rose spoke about a situation where he had come in touch with the issue of literacy. Lu was obviously more passionate about her writing because she grew up in a time when speaking the English language was unacceptable, where as Rose was more about stating the facts and definitely less passionate. Lu was also more passionate because it affected her immediate family a lot more then it affected Rose. They are both similar in a way that they both explain how important it is to be literate in today's society.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Response To Lu and Rose
Reading Lu and Rose's essays, I noticed that they both discussed literacy issues through their own perspective by taking facts from their own lives. There was one similarity that I came across while reading both essays. Rose reflects on his life by telling about his life and how he teaches people who are illiterate how to read and comprhend while at the same time Lu is reflecting on her life and how she was taught to perfect her literacy skills.
The difference is that Lu has a different background than the girls who Rose taught. Lu shared how she struggle with her literacy becuase of always being pressured by her mother to stay on her schooling. I believe that Lu might've performed nervously because she ahd to adapt to her learning enviornmentbut at the same time she succeeded because her mother cared. On the other hand Rose taught people who had a bad social life. The girls had no one who cared for them when they were younger like Rose had so they didn't take their education. Although both writers had their similarities and differences, it seems as though thier aspects were the same because of them taking education seriously.
The difference is that Lu has a different background than the girls who Rose taught. Lu shared how she struggle with her literacy becuase of always being pressured by her mother to stay on her schooling. I believe that Lu might've performed nervously because she ahd to adapt to her learning enviornmentbut at the same time she succeeded because her mother cared. On the other hand Rose taught people who had a bad social life. The girls had no one who cared for them when they were younger like Rose had so they didn't take their education. Although both writers had their similarities and differences, it seems as though thier aspects were the same because of them taking education seriously.
Response to Lu & Rose
From what I gathered, both writers illustrated the significance of literacy through either their own personal struggle (Lu) or by witnessing others' struggles (Rose). Both writings basically stated how imperative language has become in everyday life and displayed an evolution of language.
Lu's writing gave a personal perspective on the hardships with language growing up and the way it affected her. Even though she had knowledge (of not only one, but two languages), it did not make it any easier on her to live every day life in society. The people in her society favored one or the other, and she was caught in the middle. This put her in conflict growing up, yet she managed to deal with both by segregating them.
Rose, on the otherhand, wrote about the hardships of others that he knew rather than of himself. He watched them with their inability to comprehend the basics of language, which were school related. Yet, he saw in them, that they did have an understanding to the basics of life. So, they on the other hand, had only the knowledge of one, not two, and still they consequently struggled. Rose helped them. (Unlike Lu, who had to help herself.)
Both groups ran into problems, because what they knew and group up with and associated with everyday life, turned out to be wrong somewhere else.
Lu's writing gave a personal perspective on the hardships with language growing up and the way it affected her. Even though she had knowledge (of not only one, but two languages), it did not make it any easier on her to live every day life in society. The people in her society favored one or the other, and she was caught in the middle. This put her in conflict growing up, yet she managed to deal with both by segregating them.
Rose, on the otherhand, wrote about the hardships of others that he knew rather than of himself. He watched them with their inability to comprehend the basics of language, which were school related. Yet, he saw in them, that they did have an understanding to the basics of life. So, they on the other hand, had only the knowledge of one, not two, and still they consequently struggled. Rose helped them. (Unlike Lu, who had to help herself.)
Both groups ran into problems, because what they knew and group up with and associated with everyday life, turned out to be wrong somewhere else.
Response to Lu and Rose Readings
My response to these articles are very similiar to that of others in our class. I felt that Lu's writing had so much more passion and concern for literacy while Rose simply states his ideas in a way the audience wouldnt quite understand what it may be like to be illiterate. While reading Lu's article i couldn't help but place myself in her place, switching between two languages and fighting the inner struggle of pleasing someone or something even when you don't really agree with them. "I began to put on and take off my working class language in the same way I put on and took off my school clothes to avoid being criticized for wearing Bourgeois clothes." This in fact is the very essence of what Lu is trying to relate to her audience. Lu was switching languages just as much and as nonchalantly as switching her clothes. For Rose, he is more about the facts or illiteracy and what it was like to be in his situation, but for Lu, it was something more than just facts. Lu's writing contained feeling and described her past, while Rose concentrates on facts. Although these articles are very different in writing structure and feeling, the end conclusion is much the same. Literacy depends on one's culture, and the way a person is brought up in their social soceity and personal life.
Lu & Rose readings
I found Lu to be more passionate about literacy, whereas Rose is more like stating things the way they are in an uninteresting way. There's similarities in the fact that they're both talking about literacy and talking about different uses for words, and the struggles people run into using them, but the writings are uncomparably different. For Lu, it was more personal; her struggles with being caught between two cultures and their expectations of her. Rose is talking about other people, and "criticizing" their work. I didn't find Rose's reading as interesting as Lu's.
Response to Lu's and Rose's Essays
Both essays relate to one another in a very similar way. Both of the essays they talk about the importance on being able to speak another language and how frustrating and difficult it can be. Lu's essay explains more about the difficulty of being a student and speaking a couple different languages. Also in Lu's essay, she talks about how it has affected her life by being a student that was taught english and home and then having to go to school and learning and speaking a whole different language. In Rose's essay, he talks more about the classes during that time. Which he was explaining what some of the lower class with no education had to go through to actually get somewhat educated. I can also relate to both of these essay, mainly because I did have to learn a totally new language and I know the frustration and the hard work that Lu is talking about in her essay.
a little late.. tech difficulties
My name is Megan, people call me Megs. I'm the only redhead in the class, so you can't mistake me for anyone else. I'm a compassionate person. I've been through a lot, so I have a tremendous appreciation for life. I'm into musical theater & dance the most, but I have many other interests as well. I'm very different from other people my age- I know. I've embraced it.
As far as the Raymond Williams reading goes:
I enjoyed it. I found it interesting how he expressed his views in a way that wasn't disrespectful or distasteful, in how he got his point across. I agree with his "theory" I guess on culture. I think it's important to remember the past, but not dwell in it, but that it's important in present issues- we can't just forget about how we've gotten here. I never really thought in depth the concept of what "culture" really meant until I read this. It opened my eyes a little and made me think.
As far as the Raymond Williams reading goes:
I enjoyed it. I found it interesting how he expressed his views in a way that wasn't disrespectful or distasteful, in how he got his point across. I agree with his "theory" I guess on culture. I think it's important to remember the past, but not dwell in it, but that it's important in present issues- we can't just forget about how we've gotten here. I never really thought in depth the concept of what "culture" really meant until I read this. It opened my eyes a little and made me think.
Rose and Lu's essays
Both Rose and Lu have very interesting thoughts on the way literature and language can affect one's life. In Lu's essay she discusses what it was like growing up in a Chinese spoken school although her household was English spoken. It was very difficult for her growing up because the languages were easily confused and she often felt a lot different than the other students. In elementary school she had felt good about herself because her teacher had spoken to her in English once when that had not been heard of yet. However, as she got older in school, English was never spoken and she began to get down on herself because of the way she interpreted words due to speaking solely English in her household. The older she got the more she realized that the way she spoke was more about her social class and what her father had done for a living. In Rose's essay, he talked more about pieces he had often read and they way they were written. He noticed more that social class was shown a lot in the way that students had written their essays. Although these essays are much different in the way they are written and what they are about, I believe they both come to the same conclusion - literacy relies much on they way people were brought up, as well as how their parents taught them differently from how the school system taught them.
Response to Lu and Rose
Lu- language and speaking is a 'tool for survival'.
Rose-
Both authors explain throughout their essays the importance of knowing or being able to read and write properly. Lu explains it through a cultural perspective as someone from China. She takes you through a time when the English and Russian languages were the prime languages to learn. She learned English from her household and from her one teacher at her school. She says at one point that language is a "tool for survival", which I agree with a lot. If you think about it, it's really true. You can't theoretically survive without being able to speak, read or write at least one language. Communication is the key. Rose's essay is more present and local. This passage was easier to read than Lu's, because it was more relatable to current students. He too explains the importance of literacy. He points out to students that it's a necessity to earn the proper education in literature.
Rose-
Both authors explain throughout their essays the importance of knowing or being able to read and write properly. Lu explains it through a cultural perspective as someone from China. She takes you through a time when the English and Russian languages were the prime languages to learn. She learned English from her household and from her one teacher at her school. She says at one point that language is a "tool for survival", which I agree with a lot. If you think about it, it's really true. You can't theoretically survive without being able to speak, read or write at least one language. Communication is the key. Rose's essay is more present and local. This passage was easier to read than Lu's, because it was more relatable to current students. He too explains the importance of literacy. He points out to students that it's a necessity to earn the proper education in literature.
introduction & thoughts on reading
hi my name is tina, & i'm a jounior here at Kutztown , & i transfered here a year ago & my major is electronic media. I love art & music, and every couple of months i try to move somewhere different. I want to see as much of the world as I can & i love traveling. Ok so i guess thats me in a nutshell ... Now about Williams "Culture is Ordinary" I enjoyed reading his work, I thought it was well written and interesting. When he was describing the scenes he was looking at while on the bus I almost felt like I was on the bus with him looking through the same window he was. I liked how his writting almost was like he was outside looking in on life, analizing it from a far. I think his interpretation of culture was a good one and would want to read more of his work in the future.
Hello, an intro and a post on Williams
So this is to be my introduction I suppose. My name in Amy, I'm the girl that had to leave class early last week. My close friends call me Table, and you can too, if you like. I feel stupid having to misspell my name for the sake of this, but apperently there is more than one person on the internet that goes by the name 'Table'. I'm a sophmore, which means I procrastinated on this class, and I'm majoring in English Ed, which means I'm REALLY procrastinating. I'm minoring in French and plan to study abroad in Africa this spring.
Hmm, now how else does one describe themselves? My best friend and roommate last year(MIA in california) referred to us as zealots, and I feel thats pretty accurate. I love starting new projects, and getting very excited about new ideas; fnishing them is another story. I like skateboarding, art projects, and national geographic. One of my most outward qualities is probably my ability to talk, and one of my favorite subjects is society, so this reading was quite perfect.
I really like how Williams took a sort of empty word, 'culture', and gave is some bones to stand on. He defined it as everything! Well his word was 'ordinary,' but i feel that is what he meant. He said culture is what we recieve, how we interpret and what we in turn create. Culture is the colllection of traits that a bunch of people (a society) have in common.
I feel he did an accurate, enlightening job in his definition.
Kudos Williams!
Hmm, now how else does one describe themselves? My best friend and roommate last year(MIA in california) referred to us as zealots, and I feel thats pretty accurate. I love starting new projects, and getting very excited about new ideas; fnishing them is another story. I like skateboarding, art projects, and national geographic. One of my most outward qualities is probably my ability to talk, and one of my favorite subjects is society, so this reading was quite perfect.
I really like how Williams took a sort of empty word, 'culture', and gave is some bones to stand on. He defined it as everything! Well his word was 'ordinary,' but i feel that is what he meant. He said culture is what we recieve, how we interpret and what we in turn create. Culture is the colllection of traits that a bunch of people (a society) have in common.
I feel he did an accurate, enlightening job in his definition.
Kudos Williams!
Culture Is Ordinary
Culture is a big aspect on life, i believe. Raymond Williams, just defines it alot more. In his story, I noticed his descriptive writing style. I felt like that was a good way to protray what he thought was culture in the areas explored in the writing.
Culture is Ordinary
In "Culture is Oridinary", Raymond Williams portrayed a plaudible perspective on culture. His statement "...culture is everything around us." summarized the fact that culture is found everywhere. By providing his own life experience, he enabled the readers to see this better. He stated that culture is consistently changing, there's always something to learn about it, and individuality strives within it. He said there are two known meanings of culture. He was open-minded, and I agree with his writing.
My Introduction
Hey. My name's Alissa. People call me Liss. I'm coming from the Bloomsburg area, it's about 1hr 1/2 from KU. My major is Education - Secondary English.
Culture is Ordinary
Raymond William's article shows us how we are all different in one way or another. It can be from our religion to our culture, and many different other aspects of life. By having Raymond William writting about his backround and his life in the beginning, I think has helped me understand a lot better that people are different and also that they do have different views and opinions on things. Not everyone is the same. I think that by writting about your life and your backround is a great way to write. It makes the reader more interested in what the author is writting if the readers know a little bit about that person's backround. I really like how all his ideas flow together. I think it is a great way to write because it makes it so much nicer to read and to actually understand what the author is talking about. On the other hand when someone writes sloppy, and has ideas all over the place it is hard to follow the idea and actually understand it.
Ordinary Culture
After reading "Culture is ordinary" , and thinking about what Raymond Williams was trying to express, I've come up with this. When he says culture is ordinary he means that everyone has culture. We all have beliefs, opinions, and views on subjects. By posting on this blog we are all sharing our culture with each other. Williams is right when he says people can have different views of what culture are and I feel that he did a very good job of expressing both of those views in his writing rather than saying this is what culture is end of story. He allows for the understanding that not everyone comes from the same place or background. Culture is ordinary, but every person has their own unique culture, and I think that is what he is trying to show us in his writing.
Introducing myself
Hi everyone,
My name is Sara Love. I'm from Chambersburg, PA which is near Shippensburg University. I am a psychology major and I would like to continue my schooling after I graduate from here and become a School Psychologist.
My name is Sara Love. I'm from Chambersburg, PA which is near Shippensburg University. I am a psychology major and I would like to continue my schooling after I graduate from here and become a School Psychologist.
Culture is Ordinary
I think Raymond Williams is a unique writer. In Culture is Ordinary he stated "I could stand on a mountain and look north to the farms and the cathedral or south to the smoke and the flare of the blast furnace making a second sunset." I feel that this is an important line in the passive because he feels when he just looks around he can see different culture all over and close to him. Most of us prolly thought that we have to be in a different city or even state to view different culture, which really its all around us. Raymond writes with a lot of personal experience and thoughts, which keeps the reader always thinking thoughtout.
Introducing Myself
Hi, my name is Pascale Fontaine, and I live in Boyertown. It is about 45 minutes south from here. My major is Secondary Education / French. I am french canadian, I moved to the US about 6 years ago. It was a big change for me, but I lived through it.
Introduction
Hi my name is Cody Lilly. I am from Kunkletown PA. I attended Palmerton Area High School. This would be an hour north of Kutztown. I'm majoring in business.
Monday, September 04, 2006
Culture Is Ordinary
I believe that Raymond Williams takes much pride in the way he views culture and where it comes from. He starts out by describing the way to where he grew up, and where his family was, and then begins telling the reader about how he grew up and what his family was like. He talks about culture in a way that is easy for the reader to understand. He says that culture is made up by what we already know, and also by what is learned along the way. I feel that Williams expresses himself very well by what he believes and not just what the common belief is. Raymond Williams' writing on culture was a great way to keep readers interested and express his way of where his culture comes from.
Introduce Yourself
Hi, my name is Samantha Brehm. I'm from Hershey, PA and went to Hershey High School. My major is sociology.
Introduce Yourself
Hi, my name is Justin Miller. I am from the small town of Mertztown right outside of Kutztown. I graduated from Brandywine Heights. I enjoy listening to and playing music, watching movies, comedy, and hanging out with friends.
Culture Is Ordinary - Assignment #2
I think that Raymond Williams has a very fine point to his writings. He begins by telling about his life, about where he grew up and how he lived as a child on the farm. As he is telling this writing, he begans to explain about how he believes that culture is ordinary andhe relates it to his life. He expresses himself through what he believes and it is as though what he is stating is true. Raymond Williams mentions how culture has "two aspects: meaning and directions", (pg. 5). I agree with him because I related this to my culture and I realize that we have meanings we live by and we also have direction. For instance, my meaning in my culture is to succeed and i must carry myself in positive direction. To sum this up, I believe that Raymond Williams has a strong structure to his writing which causes readers to think while reading.
Introduce Yourself
Hello, my name is Chantel Evans. I am from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and I graduated from Sci Tech High. My major is business marketing and management. I like to listen to music, read, go shopping, eat, and workout.
Culture Is Ordinary
"I could stand on the mountains and look north to the farms and the cathedral or south to the smoke and the flare of the blast furnace making a second sunset." I think to some of us saying culture is ordinary is a stretch of the imagination. When we think of culture we think of different parts of the world and different races but what Raymond is saying is that these cultures are closer to us then we believe. When he says I could stand on the mountains and look north and south and see two different things he is saying that there are different cultures all around us and that it is indeed ordinary. When he says the growing society is here , yet it is also made and remade in every individual mind, he is trying to get across to the reader that people learn from the way they are brought up, or from the people they associate with. Raymond Williams' outlook on culture is that it is in fact more extraordinary than ordinary. However, it is founded on ordinary aspects and principles.
Culture Is Ordinary: Assignment # 2
I think Raymond Williams is a very detailed writer. The author uses the tool of figurative imagination to convey to his audience a detailed look at where he once lived. Williams starts out the article by saying: "Culture is Ordinary", and finishes the article by restating: "Culture is Ordinary." This obviously is really important to his idea of Culture as a whole while looking at from two aspects. "the known meanings and directions, and the new observations and meanings." Williams chooses to write his article by first painting a picture of his culture, showing how culture is yes ordinary, but also very unique to one's own life. Williams is not concerned about "stating the facts." Williams is more concerned about conveying the natural idea that everyone's soceity is different, and that one learns what he or she knows by the soceity they live in, and their personal experiences. I like how Williams also touches on the fact that he asks questions not only about general facts or differences, but also deep personal meanings of different cultures.
Introducing Myself
My name is Sean Gibbons. I am from Scranton, PA. I am an Secondary Education Major with a concentration in English, with a musical theatre minor. I went to Scranton Preparatory School in Northeasten Pennsylvania. I like to read, write, play soccer, sing, act, run, and hang out with my friends.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Welcome to Mahoney's College Composition Blog!
Hello all!
Welcome to the blog for our College Composition course. As you will notice, this blog is not empty. The conversation you will be entering has been going on for two semesters. I encourage you to check out how students have used this blog in the past and some of the ideas and projects they have made public for all the world to see.
The concept of "a conversation" will help frame how we investigate writing, language, and audience over the course of the semester. In particular, we will often return to a quote from the literary and rhetorical scholar, Kenneth Burke, who highlights the conversational nature of knowledge making through his metaphor of the "parlor":
Welcome to the blog for our College Composition course. As you will notice, this blog is not empty. The conversation you will be entering has been going on for two semesters. I encourage you to check out how students have used this blog in the past and some of the ideas and projects they have made public for all the world to see.
The concept of "a conversation" will help frame how we investigate writing, language, and audience over the course of the semester. In particular, we will often return to a quote from the literary and rhetorical scholar, Kenneth Burke, who highlights the conversational nature of knowledge making through his metaphor of the "parlor":
Imagine that you enter a parlor. You come late. When you arrive, others have long preceded you, and they are engaged in a heated discussion, a discussion too heated for them to pause and tell you exactly what it is about. In fact, the discussion had already begun long before any of them got there, so that no one present is qualified to retrace for you all the steps that had gone before. You listen for a while, until you decide that you have caught the tenor of the argument, then you put in your oar. Someone answers; you answer him [or her]; another comes to your defense; another aligns himself [or herself] against you, to either the embarrassment of gratification of your opponent, depending upon the quality of your ally’s assistance. However, the discussion is interminable. The hour grows late, you must depart. And you do depart, with the discussion still vigorously in progress (110-111, brackets mine).
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Abstract
“Pennies an Hour and no Way Up” Tom Hayden and Charles Kernighan
Each day Two billion people are working for less then 2 U.S dollars. Not to mention the conditions in which they are. The problem is that owners of the sweatshops make the men, woman, and even children work so hard that sometimes they are working for 20 hours at a time. Some workers are forced to work overtime and in some cases the woman are made to take birth control because the owner’s don’t want to lose work. Most people would think that this only happens in other countries but the truth be told there are thousands of sweatshops all over the U.S. The large courtiers need to collaborate together and reach an agreement on how to fix this issue. Before I was able to read some websites I was blind to the fact that sweatshops actually hurt the country rather then help. In my paper I will mention the different ways that we as the people are able to make a difference.
P.S sorry my post is up late, I went away with my family for the weekend and was unable to get to my post until now.
Each day Two billion people are working for less then 2 U.S dollars. Not to mention the conditions in which they are. The problem is that owners of the sweatshops make the men, woman, and even children work so hard that sometimes they are working for 20 hours at a time. Some workers are forced to work overtime and in some cases the woman are made to take birth control because the owner’s don’t want to lose work. Most people would think that this only happens in other countries but the truth be told there are thousands of sweatshops all over the U.S. The large courtiers need to collaborate together and reach an agreement on how to fix this issue. Before I was able to read some websites I was blind to the fact that sweatshops actually hurt the country rather then help. In my paper I will mention the different ways that we as the people are able to make a difference.
P.S sorry my post is up late, I went away with my family for the weekend and was unable to get to my post until now.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Abstract
I'm sorry this is in after 12 I had a busy day and just got home recently. I also had some problems with my computer.
Each year there are more teens that plan to go away to college and get a good job. The problem is that many kids don't know what to expect once they get to college. Kids are constantly told by their high schools that they need college and that they can make it in college. What high schools fail to do is give students the to tools and guidance to make it in college. While still in high school a lot of students don't know what courses to take to better prepare them in college. Being unprepared for college is not the only issue here. They also may believe that there is no need to worry and set themselves up with an easy senior year. Paying for college is also becoming a very big issue. Anything from competitions between colleges to federal and state funding cuts cause prices to be driven up. The upper half of society are the only ones that don't seem to be concerned. Their have been many studies done by many well respected individuals. All these individuals want something to be done. Changes need to be made if America wants to remain a super power. Our society simply can't run with only the upper 20% of Americans getting a good education.
Each year there are more teens that plan to go away to college and get a good job. The problem is that many kids don't know what to expect once they get to college. Kids are constantly told by their high schools that they need college and that they can make it in college. What high schools fail to do is give students the to tools and guidance to make it in college. While still in high school a lot of students don't know what courses to take to better prepare them in college. Being unprepared for college is not the only issue here. They also may believe that there is no need to worry and set themselves up with an easy senior year. Paying for college is also becoming a very big issue. Anything from competitions between colleges to federal and state funding cuts cause prices to be driven up. The upper half of society are the only ones that don't seem to be concerned. Their have been many studies done by many well respected individuals. All these individuals want something to be done. Changes need to be made if America wants to remain a super power. Our society simply can't run with only the upper 20% of Americans getting a good education.
Abstract
The title of my paper is going to be “What an immigrant has to go trough” As you could tell by the title of my paper my paper is going to be talking about immigrants. In my paper I want to give new information to the class. I want to inform them about the struggles of an immigrant, also on the laws that the United States has for the illegal immigrants. I would like to also mention on how amnesty is important for the immigrants, and how in a way it is also important to this country. I think that probably I am going to give some examples of families, and probably I am also going to mention a little bit of my family struggle. I whant to give my opinion, and I also whant to give some opinion of the taughts of some of the authors of the immigration stories of the book.
Abstract
A NEW EPIDEMIC
Just recently there has been an epidemic sweeping the nation. This epidemic has been affecting millions of people everyday and costing the government millions of dollars in the process. This epidemic, depression. Depression has taken a sudden increase in the amount of people suffering from this disease. Could the non compassionate, lazy doctors who would rather prescribe drugs rather than trying alternate treatments before medication be the ones to blame? Or has America's image of happiness change over the turn of the century leaving us with a new sense of what happiness and sadness is? Despite all the explanations of why there has been an increase, more importantly this epidemic is not only affecting the children whose parents suffer from the disease, but also this disease is affecting everyone in society. With the increase of depression comes a new reason to miss work, weakening productivity, and leaving employers with the medical and pharmaceutical costs. Also parent's suffering with this, are more likely to neglect and eventually pass on depression to their children creating a vicious depressive cycle. Never the less depression has dramatically increased over the past decade and its affects on society should be noticed.
Just recently there has been an epidemic sweeping the nation. This epidemic has been affecting millions of people everyday and costing the government millions of dollars in the process. This epidemic, depression. Depression has taken a sudden increase in the amount of people suffering from this disease. Could the non compassionate, lazy doctors who would rather prescribe drugs rather than trying alternate treatments before medication be the ones to blame? Or has America's image of happiness change over the turn of the century leaving us with a new sense of what happiness and sadness is? Despite all the explanations of why there has been an increase, more importantly this epidemic is not only affecting the children whose parents suffer from the disease, but also this disease is affecting everyone in society. With the increase of depression comes a new reason to miss work, weakening productivity, and leaving employers with the medical and pharmaceutical costs. Also parent's suffering with this, are more likely to neglect and eventually pass on depression to their children creating a vicious depressive cycle. Never the less depression has dramatically increased over the past decade and its affects on society should be noticed.
Abstract
Who's To Blame?
Approximately 36 million Americans suffer from poverty on a daily basis. The number of people who experience poverty in the United States is rapidly growing. This paper will explore some of the possibilities for this dramatic increase in poverty. Many people have opposing viewpoints for who is to blame for this social problem. The different perspectives is to either blame the victim or blame society. Oscar Lewis is an advocate of the blame the victim approach in which he focuses more on the culture of poverty and how they are responsible for their own shortcomings. On the opposing side, William Julius Wilson supports the notion of blaming society for poverty for which he coined the term structure of poverty meaning there is little opportunity present for the poor to better themselves. Included in this paper will be statistics on poverty in America, the differences between the two types of poverty, characteristics of the people most at risk, and some possible solutions to resolving poverty in America. With the facts presented one can form an opinion of who is primarily responsible for the escalating poverty. And to see potential actions that can be taken to help with this major social issue that faces the United States.
Approximately 36 million Americans suffer from poverty on a daily basis. The number of people who experience poverty in the United States is rapidly growing. This paper will explore some of the possibilities for this dramatic increase in poverty. Many people have opposing viewpoints for who is to blame for this social problem. The different perspectives is to either blame the victim or blame society. Oscar Lewis is an advocate of the blame the victim approach in which he focuses more on the culture of poverty and how they are responsible for their own shortcomings. On the opposing side, William Julius Wilson supports the notion of blaming society for poverty for which he coined the term structure of poverty meaning there is little opportunity present for the poor to better themselves. Included in this paper will be statistics on poverty in America, the differences between the two types of poverty, characteristics of the people most at risk, and some possible solutions to resolving poverty in America. With the facts presented one can form an opinion of who is primarily responsible for the escalating poverty. And to see potential actions that can be taken to help with this major social issue that faces the United States.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Tcartsba...
Indigo Children: A Change in Learning
We are reaching a point in life where our generation has the potential to save our society with a strong self-belief, mental strength, and a desire to grasp knowledge for beneficial use. This “new breed” of children are referred to as the Indigo Children because of their aura, or life color, they put off. If these children do not get the proper guidance in education, how can they help this world as they are supposed to? Alternative schooling that embraces progressive and holistic teaching methods can be quite appropriate to children that may appear “different” or “special” than most. I took a look into the background of Indigo Children in terms of personality and spirituality and discussed alternative school’s missions and visions.
We are reaching a point in life where our generation has the potential to save our society with a strong self-belief, mental strength, and a desire to grasp knowledge for beneficial use. This “new breed” of children are referred to as the Indigo Children because of their aura, or life color, they put off. If these children do not get the proper guidance in education, how can they help this world as they are supposed to? Alternative schooling that embraces progressive and holistic teaching methods can be quite appropriate to children that may appear “different” or “special” than most. I took a look into the background of Indigo Children in terms of personality and spirituality and discussed alternative school’s missions and visions.
Abstract
Abstract
"Interpreting Aspects of Advertisement through Culture"
-Chris Holland
Advertisement exists everywhere in today's society and has influence on every individual in some way. As geographic regions change and you move through different cultures, advertisements are different and are ones that are more suitable or lets say more familiar to the people that live there. A person who sees these for the first time may become intrigued and apply that to their lives if they desire. This is briefly how advertisements affect culture. But not all advertisements have to portray products for people to cosume. Some exist to provide people with insight and intellect. All these advertisements are mostly beneficial to people and help them when choosing what they think is best for them. It differs as you migrate as well as lifestyles the people live.
"Interpreting Aspects of Advertisement through Culture"
-Chris Holland
Advertisement exists everywhere in today's society and has influence on every individual in some way. As geographic regions change and you move through different cultures, advertisements are different and are ones that are more suitable or lets say more familiar to the people that live there. A person who sees these for the first time may become intrigued and apply that to their lives if they desire. This is briefly how advertisements affect culture. But not all advertisements have to portray products for people to cosume. Some exist to provide people with insight and intellect. All these advertisements are mostly beneficial to people and help them when choosing what they think is best for them. It differs as you migrate as well as lifestyles the people live.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Abstract
Abstract
Slow On The Uptake
(Mental Disorder Discrimination in the Workplace)
Jaimie Zellers
In this paper I hope to show you how discrimination is still a problem for those with mental disabilities. I hope to share with you some startling statistics that will make you wonder and feel sympathetic. The workplace is not always fair in a “normal” person’s life, but for someone with a disability it’s even worse. I am going to argue that companies should not discriminate against those with disabilities, not only because it’s unfair, but because there is a law that is supposed to be preventing it. I believe that they should be given a chance to prove themselves worthy of a higher status/paying job. Not all of the mentally disabled have someone helping them along the way. Many are homeless or are trying to live on their own, but how can they do this if they are only hired in jobs like cleaning services and bagger positions at their local grocery store. They aren't exactly high paying jobs. What if they have to pay rent or buy groceries and clothing and support themselves? Without being given the chance how can anyone know what they are clearly capable of doing. True, some are limited by their intelligence, but how would you know if they don’t get to try first? I will also be sharing with you some personal stories of my own and stories of others that I have learned about. My topic not only defends for those who have a mental retardation but also those with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia.
Slow On The Uptake
(Mental Disorder Discrimination in the Workplace)
Jaimie Zellers
In this paper I hope to show you how discrimination is still a problem for those with mental disabilities. I hope to share with you some startling statistics that will make you wonder and feel sympathetic. The workplace is not always fair in a “normal” person’s life, but for someone with a disability it’s even worse. I am going to argue that companies should not discriminate against those with disabilities, not only because it’s unfair, but because there is a law that is supposed to be preventing it. I believe that they should be given a chance to prove themselves worthy of a higher status/paying job. Not all of the mentally disabled have someone helping them along the way. Many are homeless or are trying to live on their own, but how can they do this if they are only hired in jobs like cleaning services and bagger positions at their local grocery store. They aren't exactly high paying jobs. What if they have to pay rent or buy groceries and clothing and support themselves? Without being given the chance how can anyone know what they are clearly capable of doing. True, some are limited by their intelligence, but how would you know if they don’t get to try first? I will also be sharing with you some personal stories of my own and stories of others that I have learned about. My topic not only defends for those who have a mental retardation but also those with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia.
Abstract
Abstract
College, In Your Dreams!
-Making College Financially Attainable-
Krista Capra
Argument: Middle-Low Income families CAN afford a college education if preparation steps are taken promptly and correctly.
Preview: The excitement of going to college and getting a higher education, having independence, and making new friends can be quickly shattered by the thought of how it’s going to be paid for. A good percent of the U.S. population are middle to low income families. Most middle to low income families will argue that college is unaffordable. In today’s economy, college is absolutely necessary and almost the only way to live struggle free financially. What some prospective students and their parents forget to do is apply for the many types of financial aid; this can be done by just doing a little research. If the desire is there, then the will to work towards actually getting into and affording college should be involuntary.
Relevance: Relates to discussions and readings about low-wage working and how it’s more than just a struggle, and almost impractical. College is a way out of low-wage working, but may conflict with financial attainability. College is also a “view of America,” from a societal view of what the norm is, and what the typical jobs of America are. Also, due to progressive change in the economy, it is financially required to graduate from college in order to have a stable middle-class life.
College, In Your Dreams!
-Making College Financially Attainable-
Krista Capra
Argument: Middle-Low Income families CAN afford a college education if preparation steps are taken promptly and correctly.
Preview: The excitement of going to college and getting a higher education, having independence, and making new friends can be quickly shattered by the thought of how it’s going to be paid for. A good percent of the U.S. population are middle to low income families. Most middle to low income families will argue that college is unaffordable. In today’s economy, college is absolutely necessary and almost the only way to live struggle free financially. What some prospective students and their parents forget to do is apply for the many types of financial aid; this can be done by just doing a little research. If the desire is there, then the will to work towards actually getting into and affording college should be involuntary.
Relevance: Relates to discussions and readings about low-wage working and how it’s more than just a struggle, and almost impractical. College is a way out of low-wage working, but may conflict with financial attainability. College is also a “view of America,” from a societal view of what the norm is, and what the typical jobs of America are. Also, due to progressive change in the economy, it is financially required to graduate from college in order to have a stable middle-class life.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Abstract for my final paper
The title of my final paper is going to be called Migrant Workers: Who knew? In my paper I’m going to argue that our government and society are very much uninformed when it comes to low-wage immigrant working world. I show how many of Americans make a stand on a particular issue, before knowing all the facts. This then leads to a popular consensus reached on a topic that is more often than not wrong. My paper focuses mainly on the issues of migrant workers that have been laboring here in the United States for decades. I review the many problems involved with this flawed system such as working conditions, wages, education, and a brief history of migrant workers. My findings lead me to see that rounding up these illegal migrant workers, and forcing them out of our country is going to be no easy task. Also, I found that without these low-wage immigrant workers laboring in our country, our economy could come to it’s downfall.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
final research paper
I am going to write my final paper on sweatshops. The piece we read in class about sweatshops in other countries really made me interested. I never realized that about half of the clothes I own could have been made in another country by someone getting paid tremendously lower than minimum wage. I think that sweatshops should be shut down. This could also help increase poverty in the US because these jobs are being done in other countries. People should not be slaving for 16 hours or more and not even get enough money to live in a place with a roof over thier head.
In my paper I will discuss the pros and cons of sweatshops and why I truly feel that they should be no longer. I will relate information to the artile we read by Tom Hayden and Charles Kernaghan. I will also use two other sources that I found most helpful.
http://www.studentsagainstsweatshops.org/
http://www.nmass.org/nmass/index.html
In my paper I will discuss the pros and cons of sweatshops and why I truly feel that they should be no longer. I will relate information to the artile we read by Tom Hayden and Charles Kernaghan. I will also use two other sources that I found most helpful.
http://www.studentsagainstsweatshops.org/
http://www.nmass.org/nmass/index.html
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Picture Essay.
This picture is of Lance Armstrong carrying the American flag after winning the dour de France. He proudly displays his countries flag as he is riding over the streets to celebrate his victory. Lance bike riding career looked as if it might end early when he was diagnosed with a very dangerous cancer that spread throughout his entire body. After some long hard years he made it past the though times. He got back onto his bike and started to ride again. He became the best through hard work, dedication, and determination. He proved to the world that he was the best not just once, but seven times. He wasn’t afraid of the competition or the pressure his country placed on him to be number one. America is Lance Armstrong. With each war we have had to slowly build ourselves back up again, and in a sense we are the best. We are always competing against other countries and there is so much pressure for use to come out on top and be number one.
Annotated Bibliography
Well I know its supposed to go Last name, First name "Title of Article." City: Publisher, Date. I wasn't able to locate all that information right now. I just switched my topic and got all my sources, plus its late. So I hope this will do.
http://www.azcentral.com/families/education/articles/0201collegeskills-ON.html
This is basically about how for all kids college is talked about and they all know that you want to go there to be successful. Kids also know that college means more school. Its kind of like they think they are moving on to the next grade. What they aren't ready for is all the work and deadlines and time management. It also says that wealthier kids that went to private schools tend to do better then kids from poorer families that went to public schools. Its also about how kids are told that they can make it in college but not given what they need to do it.
http://dadtalk.typepad.com/dadtalk/2004/10/high_schools_ma.html
This is a blog based on what researches from ACT researchers that offer college entrance exams. They basically say that kids aren't doing good and what classes they should be required to take. They recommend kids being introduced to college entrance exams to get a better feel for what college is about. Dads post to the blog and gave their feedback and things that they tried.
http://news-service.stanford.edu/news/2005/august24/colleges-082405/html
This is how the US used to be first in people graduating with BA in college. Now we are falling behind. The weird thing is that we have more college bound students then ever. The majority of them go to community colleges. It talks about how a lot of students will get upset because they don't know what they are getting into so they end up getting overwhelmed and drop out. High schools and colleges need to work together so that high schools can better prepare their students for college.
http://www.azcentral.com/families/education/articles/0201collegeskills-ON.html
This is basically about how for all kids college is talked about and they all know that you want to go there to be successful. Kids also know that college means more school. Its kind of like they think they are moving on to the next grade. What they aren't ready for is all the work and deadlines and time management. It also says that wealthier kids that went to private schools tend to do better then kids from poorer families that went to public schools. Its also about how kids are told that they can make it in college but not given what they need to do it.
http://dadtalk.typepad.com/dadtalk/2004/10/high_schools_ma.html
This is a blog based on what researches from ACT researchers that offer college entrance exams. They basically say that kids aren't doing good and what classes they should be required to take. They recommend kids being introduced to college entrance exams to get a better feel for what college is about. Dads post to the blog and gave their feedback and things that they tried.
http://news-service.stanford.edu/news/2005/august24/colleges-082405/html
This is how the US used to be first in people graduating with BA in college. Now we are falling behind. The weird thing is that we have more college bound students then ever. The majority of them go to community colleges. It talks about how a lot of students will get upset because they don't know what they are getting into so they end up getting overwhelmed and drop out. High schools and colleges need to work together so that high schools can better prepare their students for college.
Final research paper
For my reasearch paper I'm asking the question, does high school properly prepare kids for college. This relates to what we discussed in class because we talked a lot about poverty. If high schools arent properly preparing kids then all they are doing is setting them up for poverty. I decided to use this as my topic because I remember one of my friends who graduated with 13 credits. I remember when I found this out I couldn't possibly understand how he could of passed because our high school required 28 credits. It turned out my friend was one of the special needs students. Some how this made it ok for him to graduate with only 13 credits. Another this was when I first got to college it took me a while to adjust. I had a hard first semester and I even took advanced classes senior year. I felt that my high school didn't really prepare me at all.
http://www.azcentral.com/failies/education/articles/0201collegeskills-html
http://dadtalk.typepad.com/dadtalk/2004/10/high_schools_ma.html
These two sites both talk about how high schools need to step it up. They both talk about how there are more college bound students then ever but also more drop outs then ever. This is a problem that needs to be fixed. I'm intrested to see what else I can find on this topic
http://www.azcentral.com/failies/education/articles/0201collegeskills-html
http://dadtalk.typepad.com/dadtalk/2004/10/high_schools_ma.html
These two sites both talk about how high schools need to step it up. They both talk about how there are more college bound students then ever but also more drop outs then ever. This is a problem that needs to be fixed. I'm intrested to see what else I can find on this topic
Monday, April 24, 2006
2 resources and topic
I'm planning on doing my final research paper on Mental disorders and job offers and education. It relates to many things that we've talked about in class including jobs, money, homelessness and others. I'm hoping to find out through research on the internet and through personal interviews with psychiatrists and employers about what they recommend and who they hire and where they can get hired. Also, i hope to find out what kind of education they are allowed to recieve and if college is available for some. Hopefully more idea's for information will crop up while i do my research.
so far i've found a few sites that might be able to help me with information.
http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/reg3a.html#Anchor-Appendix-52467
http://www.jan.wvu.edu/links/ADAq&a.html
http://search.epnet.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&an=19646441&site=ehost&scope=site
each of these links either says something about ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) or some government jobs that are available and other stuff. Hopefully these will help me.
If you have any advice, PLEASE, tell me.. lol
so far i've found a few sites that might be able to help me with information.
http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/reg3a.html#Anchor-Appendix-52467
http://www.jan.wvu.edu/links/ADAq&a.html
http://search.epnet.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&an=19646441&site=ehost&scope=site
each of these links either says something about ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) or some government jobs that are available and other stuff. Hopefully these will help me.
If you have any advice, PLEASE, tell me.. lol
Picture essay
I chose the picture of the Hollywood sign because I think for many people in the world who have never been to America, Hollywood is one of the main sources of information about US. Movies create many different images about the States, many of them are true and many of them are not. I watch American movies my whole life even before I moved here. I would watch action movies, comedies, horror movies, dramas and all kind of other different movies. I thought that whatever I saw in the movie, that's how it is in reality(to the certain extend of course). Then when I came to States I realized that many things are different from what they were shown in movies. I think that on international level of representation of America Hollywood is number one. It creates images that many people see and for them its the only source of information about America.
2 research sites
Like I had mentioned before in classy I am interested in researching how the advertisement world is obsessed with skinny models and the idea of being thin. I was looking up the big named magazines such as vogue and I came across the web site style.com. On this site I found and article on mythic proportions, basically it was saying how there is no perfect body type but then you flip to the next page and what do you see a picture of a gorgeous model with the title "thin" above her. So how can they say the there is no 1 body type that is perfect but then you turn the page and you see an anorxic chic wearing a high named fashion brand?
as i have been researching i have found that more and more people are trying to fight back all of the medias advertisments with their own visual statement towards this idea of what a perfect body is. One of the major contributers to this wave of fighting the media is Jean Kilbourne. She has many articles, books, and even videos on this subject. I have also found that artist are another major contributer as well. Larry kirkwood has created the Body Image Project and this has to deal with casting female bodies to show the viewer that it is alright to look the way that they do, natural. Cheryl-Ann Webster also has a show that is similar to larry's but it is called the Beautiful Women Project. Her project came about when her 13 year old daughter told her that her friend was saving up for breast augmintation. this disterbed her to the core when she found out that the main reason for this was to get a better boyfriend as her daughter put it. Cheryl-Ann Webster has come up with the idea to cast females from ages 19 to 91 to show young girls that they are beautiful no matter what size or shape but that natural beauty is what they all have. for the media to make young girls feel that they need to be someting that they are not is what i am trying to make this essay about, to show thtas the models that they see in magazines are only a small percentage of what "real" women look like.
as i have been researching i have found that more and more people are trying to fight back all of the medias advertisments with their own visual statement towards this idea of what a perfect body is. One of the major contributers to this wave of fighting the media is Jean Kilbourne. She has many articles, books, and even videos on this subject. I have also found that artist are another major contributer as well. Larry kirkwood has created the Body Image Project and this has to deal with casting female bodies to show the viewer that it is alright to look the way that they do, natural. Cheryl-Ann Webster also has a show that is similar to larry's but it is called the Beautiful Women Project. Her project came about when her 13 year old daughter told her that her friend was saving up for breast augmintation. this disterbed her to the core when she found out that the main reason for this was to get a better boyfriend as her daughter put it. Cheryl-Ann Webster has come up with the idea to cast females from ages 19 to 91 to show young girls that they are beautiful no matter what size or shape but that natural beauty is what they all have. for the media to make young girls feel that they need to be someting that they are not is what i am trying to make this essay about, to show thtas the models that they see in magazines are only a small percentage of what "real" women look like.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
2 sources for Research Topic
I finally decided on a topic that I was going to do for my research paper. Although I am not too sure how its exactly relating to the readings but I just got done reading two very interesting articles. The first article I read was in a magazine called Adbusters. Inside, was a magazine investigating the use of torture upon Detainees while in American Custody in Guanama Bay during 2002. I then read a paper on U.S. Reservations , declarations, and other understandings, Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment , Cong Rec. S174860, and it was very interesting seeing what the our Senate advised and consented to within International laws. I think the topic of "what is torture" is a topic that one does not ask themselves very often, but where do you draw the line in torture? Could that possibly be something every our Japanese internment Camps did? I definitely want to read up more on these 2 sources and maybe find a way to relate it more to our class discussions. Any ideas?
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Topic and Two Sources
For my paper, I'm interested in going in depth on why the price of a college education is too high. I believe it's a very important issue because we discussed how low wage working makes it hard to get by in America, and if society is going to enforce a college education in order to get a good job, it needs to be more affordable. I believe many people out there really want an education which can lead to being well off, however many reasons including those that are inevitable makes it hard to afford it. As a result a good amount of our population are left with the jobs that they don't want or like, regardless if they're smart or overqualified.
I found both of my sources on CQ researcher. This is actually a very good, and reliable search engine that most of you might be familiar with. You can find it right in the Library section of Kutztown's website. It has a lot of topics, ideas, and current events that can help with putting your paper together properly, with reliable information.
1. Cooper, M. H. (1992, November 19). Paying for college. The CQ researcher, 2. Retrieved
April 20, 2006, from http://library.cqpress.com/cqresearcher/cqresrre1992112000.
Document ID: cqresrre1992112000.
2. Price, T. (2003, December 4). Rising college costs. The CQ researcher, 13, 1013-1044.
Retrieved April 20, 2006, from
http://library.cqpress.com/cqresearcher/cqresrre2003120500.
Document ID: cqresrre2003120500.
I found both of my sources on CQ researcher. This is actually a very good, and reliable search engine that most of you might be familiar with. You can find it right in the Library section of Kutztown's website. It has a lot of topics, ideas, and current events that can help with putting your paper together properly, with reliable information.
1. Cooper, M. H. (1992, November 19). Paying for college. The CQ researcher, 2. Retrieved
April 20, 2006, from http://library.cqpress.com/cqresearcher/cqresrre1992112000.
Document ID: cqresrre1992112000.
2. Price, T. (2003, December 4). Rising college costs. The CQ researcher, 13, 1013-1044.
Retrieved April 20, 2006, from
http://library.cqpress.com/cqresearcher/cqresrre2003120500.
Document ID: cqresrre2003120500.
two sources for paper
What I want to talk about in my paper is how this country is full of nothing but advertisements everywhere you go. And it isn't only for the purpose of selling the products, but for the purpose of building corporate reputations. And it has been since the 1920's that American advertising has grown massivley and the demand for new products continues to increase. But why is it that literally every direction you look in, someone has something being advertised? If someones shirt says Abercrombie and Fitch, then they are therefore advertising for that company without even realizing it. Advertising exists everywhere but is it really that important? One source I will use can be checked out at this website. http://historymatters.gmu.edu/mse/Ads/amadv.html. It gives a brief history of how advertisment has developed over the years.
Another concern of mine when it comes to advertising is why it is necessary for such ridiculous ads and campaigns. Isn't it possible to just get the word out for your product without going through all these obsurd campaigns and wasting millions of dollars? It is as if these companies and corporations are batteling one another to put themselves on top. Like generic goods don't recieve as much recognition as brand name products. And because it is brand name the consumer right away thinks that it is better. But is it truly? But nutritionally speaking, there is no difference. Here is another source i will use. http://frugalliving.about.com/cs/buyingfood/a/090903.htm
Another concern of mine when it comes to advertising is why it is necessary for such ridiculous ads and campaigns. Isn't it possible to just get the word out for your product without going through all these obsurd campaigns and wasting millions of dollars? It is as if these companies and corporations are batteling one another to put themselves on top. Like generic goods don't recieve as much recognition as brand name products. And because it is brand name the consumer right away thinks that it is better. But is it truly? But nutritionally speaking, there is no difference. Here is another source i will use. http://frugalliving.about.com/cs/buyingfood/a/090903.htm
2 sources for paper
I have decided that I want to do my paper on poverty. I know its kind of a broad topic but it will be interesting i promise...anyways, I have found some great books in the library to help me back up my paper. I want to go into absolut vs. relative poverty, the categories of people who are most at risk for poverty, and peoples views. Thats when it will get intersting because when we had the class discussion people had opposing viewpoints on if people in poverty can better themselves or they choose not to and that how they end up that way.
I found a book called Persistant Poverty: The American Dream Turned Nightmare by Richard H. Ropers. I thought this title was really catchy but the information and the things it has inside have provoked so much thought from myself. So hopefully it will help with the conversation in my paper. It explains who makes up the poor and the feminization of poverty. It evens talks about the homeless and welfare programs (mainly if they are helping to encourage poverty or not) . Also how should be blamed in society for the increasing problem of poverty.
There is another book I found that is called Reducing Poverty in America. It is mainly a collection of works by various writers. In this book they each give their own perspective on ways to rid America on poverty. I liked some of the writings that gave strategies to decrease welfare by increasing work. The viewpoints were really interesting which made me think of things differently.
I found a book called Persistant Poverty: The American Dream Turned Nightmare by Richard H. Ropers. I thought this title was really catchy but the information and the things it has inside have provoked so much thought from myself. So hopefully it will help with the conversation in my paper. It explains who makes up the poor and the feminization of poverty. It evens talks about the homeless and welfare programs (mainly if they are helping to encourage poverty or not) . Also how should be blamed in society for the increasing problem of poverty.
There is another book I found that is called Reducing Poverty in America. It is mainly a collection of works by various writers. In this book they each give their own perspective on ways to rid America on poverty. I liked some of the writings that gave strategies to decrease welfare by increasing work. The viewpoints were really interesting which made me think of things differently.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Sources for my paper
I'm, for the most part, sure that im going to do my essay on immigration and the connection it has with low wadge workers in our society. Often times you hear that the immigrants in our country are the people that take the worst jobs. Basically the jobs us "Americans" dont want to do. I found some good sources and some bad sources, but for the most part the topic of immigration has so many aspects to it that talking just on one topic wont justify the whole conversation. I only plan to add to this conversation and i found some very interesting topics when reasearching.
The ironic this about my first source is that it's another blog site that people post thoughts and comments to. This particular blog is written by Dean Baker and is his "commentary on economic reporting. http://http://beatthepress.blogspot.com/2006/04/immigrants-and-low-wage-jobs.html. Haha thats a long link but there it is!! His blog talks about many of the issues and problems that are wong with our economy today. He states the fact that our problem now adays is not a shortage in low-wage workers, its the fact that employers do not want to keep raiseing wages along with the riseing products in our society. He also talks about how the considered "low wage jobs" that are present today (meat packers, construction workers, etc.) were not low wage jobs a mere 30 years ago. So its easy to see that because employers want to keep wages at the same level, more and more low wage jobs are continuing to pop up in our economy. This is happening by hireing not only immigrants but other people that will work the same job for less pay. Dean states that this is "simple part" of the problem to understand. What really intrigued was the issue that he broght up next. He argues that maybe instead of bringing in immigrats that are oviously less skilled, we should turn to those immigrants that are well skilled in their fields. The doctors and lawers that practice in other countries. This would have a crippling affect on our "blue collar" works, due to the surplus of skilled workers. This would then lower the prices that lawers and doctors charge to a price that could be very reasonable for the population. He then goes on to talk about how this plan would work in his eyes, and makes a comment about how the goverment has never even persued this plan. Others then comment on his work either agreeing with his theory or opposing it.
The ironic this about my first source is that it's another blog site that people post thoughts and comments to. This particular blog is written by Dean Baker and is his "commentary on economic reporting. http://http://beatthepress.blogspot.com/2006/04/immigrants-and-low-wage-jobs.html. Haha thats a long link but there it is!! His blog talks about many of the issues and problems that are wong with our economy today. He states the fact that our problem now adays is not a shortage in low-wage workers, its the fact that employers do not want to keep raiseing wages along with the riseing products in our society. He also talks about how the considered "low wage jobs" that are present today (meat packers, construction workers, etc.) were not low wage jobs a mere 30 years ago. So its easy to see that because employers want to keep wages at the same level, more and more low wage jobs are continuing to pop up in our economy. This is happening by hireing not only immigrants but other people that will work the same job for less pay. Dean states that this is "simple part" of the problem to understand. What really intrigued was the issue that he broght up next. He argues that maybe instead of bringing in immigrats that are oviously less skilled, we should turn to those immigrants that are well skilled in their fields. The doctors and lawers that practice in other countries. This would have a crippling affect on our "blue collar" works, due to the surplus of skilled workers. This would then lower the prices that lawers and doctors charge to a price that could be very reasonable for the population. He then goes on to talk about how this plan would work in his eyes, and makes a comment about how the goverment has never even persued this plan. Others then comment on his work either agreeing with his theory or opposing it.
Dos resources...
I am pretty sure that I am going to do my research paper on "Indigo Children" and tie in the progressive schooling and teaching methods that were talked about in our earlier readings of our text book. My first resource is a book entitled "The Indigo Children: The New Kids Have Arrived" by two authors, Lee Carroll and Jan Tober. This book was published in 1999 by Hay House. I'll start out with the definition of an Indigo Child---one who displays a new and unusual set of pscyhological attributes and shows a pattern of behavior generally undocumented before. Their behavioral patterns have unique factors that suggest that people who interact with them (usually parents), have to change their treatment and upbringing of them in order to achieve balance. Indigo Children share common traits such as a feeling of "deserving to be here", difficulty with absolute authority, noncomforming to any system, often see better ways of doing things both at home and in school. Kids that are considered to have ADD or ADHD, could actually just be Indigo's but their parents and doctors are too blind to 'see' that and just shove Ritalin down their throats until they become mindless robots by the time they get out of high school. I have just started reading this book but it has tons of reliable sources such as doctors, psychologists, and other people who share their experiences and views on this "new breed" of children. This book was not only created to get the word out on Indigo's but to also give parents a guide to better understand their child if he/she is an Indigo. I'm excited to further my knowledge on this topic and research to write a paper.
The second source I have is the website, http://indigochild.com. This site is the main "home" page for the Indigo Children and it complements the book that I mentioned earlier. It's a really great site to first start learning about Indigo's. It's actually the first site I saw regarding the Indigo Children when my brother referred it to me some years back. There are links to schools all around the country that are progressive and specialize in helping children learn, grow, and stimulate their mind to the fullest potential. I will be using these links to research different schools. I actually found one that is right near my hometown, which is something I'll keep in mind when my nephew and soon-to-be niece are getting ready for schooling.
The second source I have is the website, http://indigochild.com. This site is the main "home" page for the Indigo Children and it complements the book that I mentioned earlier. It's a really great site to first start learning about Indigo's. It's actually the first site I saw regarding the Indigo Children when my brother referred it to me some years back. There are links to schools all around the country that are progressive and specialize in helping children learn, grow, and stimulate their mind to the fullest potential. I will be using these links to research different schools. I actually found one that is right near my hometown, which is something I'll keep in mind when my nephew and soon-to-be niece are getting ready for schooling.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Picture essay
My picture is a representation of America. Americans like everything bigger and better and McDonald's represents that. Those young boys most likely do not need a super sized meal to fill them up. Little kids have happy meals with a portion of food that is better for younger kids. Younger kids have a hard time seeing how there actions will affect them in the future. With out there parents to there to help monitor how much they eat the kids will just keep eating. I read this picture as McDonald's being America. Americans like to indulge in lots of things and this picture shows McDonald's profiting off of people with out the control to say when enough is enough. Americans like to make money, McDonald's likes to make money even at the expense of others health.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Picture Essay thing...
What I interpreted as the message of this picture is, through all of the horrible things we went through on 9/11 as it says in the National Anthem “our flag was still there,” meaning that we are still standing strong through all we’ve been through in the past and the future. It’s common because America is “United” and as are all of the people, buildings, and symbols within this picture. It’s familiar because all of the things, people, and symbols in this picture are ones that we know and everyone knows what it all means. For example, the Eagle is a symbol that most people recognize of America and as our Nations bird, and the flag. I guess it shows all power and dominance in America. It shows Bush, firefighters, policemen; basically all the people that have power in this country can make a difference. It has the Affect of unity and strength in the picture as a message. It can influence the viewers’ feelings about America as a whole and many other aspects of the past few years. I noticed that although this is a representation of America and all the things important to us, I don't believe it covered hardly everything that is a symbol of America or a representation of America because I noticed there are no other races other than the white race. I understand that there are a lot of symbols and people that are important to us as Americans, but also "we the people" are a representation of America, and that includes all other races, not just the white people. The other message in this picture was taken from the National Anthem, which is another representation of America. We are still strong and as we did in past wars, we prevailed and will still prevail even though we've been through so much.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
This is a picture of the Switchback Railroad in the early 1800's. It is located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania (which is my hometown) and was built just a few decades after the American Revolution. It was designed to haul anthracite a 9 mile distance from the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Mines in Summit Hill to coal chutes above the lehigh river in Mauch Chunk which is now Jim Thorpe. These loaded cars of coal took approximately one half-hour rolling dowhill by gravity to reach its destination. The uphill trip took 3 - 4 hours. After about 50 years of operation, the railroad was sold and opened to be a tourist attraction to give people the joy of letting gravity give them a nice relaxing fun ride down the side of a mountain. It wasn't long after this that it was declared the worlds first rollercoaster and the idea of amuzment parks was brought about. It was in operation for over 100 years until in 1932 when it fell victim to the Great Depression. It is now a historical site and to this day attracts many and many of tourists from all over the world.I chose this picture because it not only represents america, but also the town where i grew up. The picture shows what it was like for american workers before technology developed and how hard life was living in that era. Everything consisted of hard physical labor for hours a day which is not what this country developed to. Today everything is more diverse and less hard labor jobs. This picture just goes to show what things were like in the 18 and early 1900's and how much things have changed and developed in the past 100 years.
Monday, April 10, 2006
post about the picture!!
/Users/laurencharles/Pictures/iPhoto Library/2006/04/10/lange.jpg
I chose this image by Dorthea Lange, because i feel that it says alot about america and how times can be rough but people still pull through. i feel that this woman has had many hard times in her life and it doesn't seem to be getting any better but she still is holding up strong for her kids. The great depression was a very difficult time for the United States and this woman and her family were a few of the millions that were affected by it but to see the pain in her face makes it real to us, and this is why i think that this picture really hits home because it makes the feeling real.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
This picture is of course of a nuclear explosion. The reason I chose to use this picture is to show just exactly what extent man, will go to show power and superiority. This particular nuclear explosion was tested on a small chain of islands in the south pacific. The United States performed these tests, after going to the islands, which were our "territories," and telling all of the islands inhabitants they had to leave and find somewhere else to live. They then built a base on the island which was then inhabited by soldiers, and then evacuated. This was to give the bomb the oppurtnity to show off what it would do to structures and the surrounding area. Bsiacally the unoccupied base was to simulate towns and villages, and what damage would be done to them.
I have always found this interesting, not just because of the "bomb" but the lengths a government, such as ourselves, will go to show off, which is really what they were doing. It intrigues me that they would even concieve this. The ultimate weapon, armageddon, the end of man. The U.S. started creating bombs after hearing that the Russians had developed the ability to make a bomb. This information was obtained through Albert Einstein, who in turn helped the U.S. develope its first atomic bombs. I have always believed that if nuclear power was never saught after, we wouldn't be in such terror. Yes there are rules and regulations controlling nuclear power, and also the usage of nuclear warheads, which are listed under the guidlines from the Geneva Convention. But, who is to stop them from being used, just becasue someone said no, there are many nations with the capability of producing and launchin nuclear warheads and other weapons of mass destruction. And, if some nation gets pissed off, whose to tell them no. I just hope I'm dead before this happens, because to me that would be hell on Earth, and I do not want to be around to see that or live that, because that is one slow and painful death.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
I chose this picture because I wanted to find a picture that would represent what other countries view America as. Even though this picture is just a body builder with a Eagles head and an American flag speed-o I think there is a lot of symbolism here. I think the big muscles symbolize power, but the fact that they are unnecessarily large says arrogance to me. The name of this picture is the Global Bully. I think this picture could say to certain countries that America is the bully trying to police the globe. Other countries that are our allies could view this as that's there friend who will protect them. The muscles could also show that America has the power to help and take care of all the problems. This picture is made up of two of America's most defining symbols, the bald eagle, and American flag. When we were looking at this picture in class someone pointed out that it could be taken as deformities of our symbols. Like the whole eagle and whole American flag symbolizes what we were and this new picture symbolizes what we became. We could say that we changed so much that all that's left of us is a little speed-o and the head of the eagle. Now we are turning into some power hungry creature. We could view the unnecessarily large muscles as us being power hungry. Then again we could view it as safety. Like the America is a super hero that can save the world. In reality this picture is just a body builder with an eagles head and an American flag speed-o on. Symbols like the Bald Eagle and the American flag are what give pictures like this power and make them speak to people. They speak to different people in different ways but what the picture says to you could depend on your feeling about America.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
When I think of America, I think of diversity. In this drawing there are children raising the American flag. For me this picture represents the future of America. The children are representing the future of this country, because they are all diverse, and yet they are also united. Each child seems as if they all come from different backgrounds. In this drawing each one of them seem happy to be helping on raising the united States flag. The children are working together for a better country. They seem proud of their country. They children want to raise the flag of the ground as if they want the flag to grow just like a flower would grow, big and beautiful.
Picture w/ Essay
I decided to use the picture "Kissing the War Goodbye" for my "picture project." This photo features a young soldier kissing a woman. We can tell by the opther soilders as well as the title that this is a day for celebratipon and that the men are home from war. I have yet to see this photo in color and am pretty positive that it was designed to be in black and white. The black and white distortion adds dramatic effect because it adds a realistic aspect to the picture. Since this photo was taken in 1945 after Germany surrendered, the expression of the people in the background allows the viewer to share the joy of a soilder returning home. This photo tells a story itself by the overwhelming affection showed in the picture. This displays American culture because loved ones are always so happy to see their loved ones return home. The saylor to the left of the picutre (which may not be displayed in this verison) shows great pride in himself by standing tall and smiling. Overall I feel this picture is an awesome display of American culture and attitude during that time. By the couple being the center of the picture we can tell that the photographer may have wanted the over emotion to be the message of the picture.
Monday, April 03, 2006
I used the famous picture taken on September 11th, 2003, of the three firemen raising up the American flag. The picture was taken after the twin towers fell to the ground; the exhausted firemen raised the flag right on top of ground zero. I think this picture represents the United States in many ways. One was is the Americans are proud to be American. Even after the disaster, the heroes still kept their heads held high and proudly raised the flag. Also the picture shows that the firemen were tired, and sweaty, however that didn’t stop them for doing what they believe in, which shows a lot of Americans don’t quit and achieve their goals.
Picture
The picture that I decided to write about was the picture that I showed in class. This was the one with all different men dressed to thier own profession. This picture depicted America for me as soon as I saw it. These are the people that make America what it is. They work hard everyday to make it better for others. I feel that there are jobs out there that people take for granted or oversee. The person who drives the bus to get you to work, the person who stays up all night to meet a deadline so you can read a magizine, the person that helps make the vehicle that keeps families safe everyday; these are the people that help make the United States a better place to live. They are hard working and strive to make others happy everyday. These people are America.
Pic
"This illustration from the July 2, 1887 issue of Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper reads: "Welcome to the land of freedom -- an ocean steamer passing the statue of liberty: scene on the steerage deck." For many immigrants who sailed to Ellis Island after 1886, the Statue of Liberty represented their introduction to the American continent, and all it entailed"
--Caption taken directly from the website below--
-http://www.pbs.org/wnet/historyofus/web08/
I decided to post this picture because it reminds me of how lucky we are to be here. So many people from different countries wanted to come to the "land of opportunity". America was the place to be back then, and still is. Many people are still coming to the U.S. today because there are so many opportunities to succeed here, and they believe that their dreams can really come true. The picture shows the immigrants watching the Statue of Liberty coming closer to the boat. I can only imagine the excitement in their eyes and the look on their face as they wait to put one foot on the soil of America. The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of America itselt. It's what everyone looks for, other than the flag and the eagle, to represent that America is within your grasp.
symbolic pictures...
This is a picture taken by a brilliant photographer by the name of Mike Wilkinson. This picture was taken on a subway of random people. I chose this picture because as soon as you look at it, there is so much symbolism behind it all. Here you have your average white collar business man, probably coming home from a day at the office, sitting next to an African-American woman who doesn't appear to be a business woman. If you look at each of their faces, you can sense so much prejudice between the two. First off, they are both looking the other way, and if you look at the man's face, it's almost as if he is raising his chin (symbolizing that he thinks he is better than her). The woman is just looking the other way thinking "this guy is so typical, he has no idea about life." haha...If you look at their body positions too, you can tell that the man is sort of sitting crooked in his chair, so that he is not directly next to the woman. It's kind of sad that is how the world works. Two totally different people should be able to sit next to eachother on the subway and be able to look at eachother...smile, and understand that they're both from different backgrounds but have similarities in some way.
I like Mike Wilkinson's style of photography. He has a whole set of pictures from subway's that represent different emotions of humans.
picture
Can there be only one word that best represents America? What word would you describe America as? Diversity is the first word that comes to my mind when I think of representing America. The picture I have chosen is a great example of diversity. It has six college students sitting in the grass studying/working together. The scenic background makes it seem like a calm and peaceful place. The sun is shining down on them to emphasize their togetherness and cooperation. The picture was taken at ground level, showing that we are on the same level as the people in the photo. I believe this picture represents America because years ago African Americans and Whites were segregated in almost everything. And now this picture depicts students of all different races working together. This just shows how much America has changed, meaning that the blending of races and cultural backgrounds are now much more common today, than they were before.
I feel that this picture is dominant and resistant at the same time. The photo is dominant in the sense that it is not unusual or considered wrong to see people of different races or cultural backgrounds together. People can choose who they want to be around and I think that this picture is great because it not only shows Blacks and Whites, but other races as well. Because if you look at America's culture and races there is not one single race, it is very diverse and considered a "melting pot". In my opinion I think that this picture is resistant too. This is because most people only look at the denotation of things and not at the connotation. Meaning that it can be denoted that people are sitting in the grass studying, but to say that these students make up our future is the connotation. I feel that this aspect is hidden in the picture.
I believe the affect of this photo demonstrates how it doesn't matter what size, shape, or color your skin is, we are all the same people. I feel that prejudice and discrimination has decreased but it needs to completely stop. There is no one race in the world and everyone needs to get used to it. An underlying message in this picture makes me think of the phrase "the children are our future." Because the people who are in college now (like the ones in the photo) are the ones getting an education so they can become part of the work force and are America's future for better or worse. We are the ones who will raise children eventually and teach them our morals and values to keep representing America.
Picutre
Well I decided to use the photograph "Kissing the War Goodbye" its a pretty famous photograph but I think it does an excellent job describing the feelings towards America during this time. It was a time of rejoice and happiness. Every time I look at this picture it makes me smile and I wish it was me in the picutre. I think it describes a time before terrorism and a time when Soilders were respected more than anything.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)