Blog # 12 Directions on writing CATW Essay

First step in writing an essay is to read the original article than reread it. Start picking out your main ideas and the supporting ideas. How I do it is, I look for main ideas and make sure by finding the supporting/ evidence to what I think is a main idea. Than look at all of the main ideas and figured out which one I can write about best. That becomes my thesis/position on how I am going to set up the essay.

1^st Paragraph

 Introduction to the article, I think of this as an opening sentence to my article. This is how I am going to introduce the topic I am writing about.

In my own words a summary of main ideas on the article I just read.  No supporting Ideas.

Than a thesis/Position

2^nd Paragraph

Example 1 Personal experience- Derive something from a life experience; it doesn’t have to be only yours. Use family, friends or co-workers experiences too.

3^rd & 4^th Paragraph

Example 2 & 3 Use some examples from Magazines, Newspapers, T.V and Internet to show that these are stories pertaining to the article. Be sure to use one at a time in each paragraph. In blog 10 I used the Home Alone movie in 3^rd  paragraph than in my 4^th paragraph I used the story I read about My sisters keeper.

5^th Paragraph

Conclusion- This is when I wrapped everything up in about 3-4 sentences about how I feel, advice or matter of fact words.

The flow of your essay is important; my essays tend to break off into specific paragraphs. I am learning how to combine and make it into one flowing read.

Grammar and spelling- it is evitable for me to spell something wrong like researches, a instead of an. I first draft and look in the dictionary and write down a couple of words on the side of my paper.

Just take the time to reread your essay and make minor corrections.

  

Blog #11 Revised CATW Practice 2

Do I act differently with others around? Carol Travis wrote the article “In Groups We Shrink”. The passage is about changes in people’s behaviors and actions in groups compared to people by themselves. Through experiments doctors have determined another underlying cause for this behavior called “Diffusion of Responsibility” or “Social Loafing". I agree with the idea of diffusion of responsibility or social loafing stated in this article.

 I have experienced numerous times when diffusion of responsibility has played out. One day I had gone to work earlier than usual and proceeded to go down to the locker rooms. I was approached by employees with their concern about another employee who wasn’t feeling well. I first asked did anyone tell the manager on duty, their response was they did but she wants to go home so she is waiting for you to take care of it. I was appalled by that statement, but before I could confront her I checked up on the employee. Fortunately for him I stepped in, the employee had first signs of a heart attack. While all this is going on the manger on duty got dressed and left. This is just one situation amongst the many at work. I could not understand why people were like this but after reading the article; I felt a little at ease that this behavior is going on elsewhere.

Diffusion of responsibility is typically heard or read in the news. I read an article in the New York post in 2010 about a homeless man coming to aid of a woman who being attacked. The homeless man was stabbed and left there in a pool of blood and 25 people walked passed him before action was taken. Shocked that this actually happened, I was so upset but unfortunately it happens. Social loafing is a similar concept as well; people are just plain lazy and figure someone else will figure it out.

None the less perfect example is the report about Luisa Brown. Watching channel 7 in 2008, a picture of this 7 year-old girl was shown. Little Brown was beaten to death by her step father all because she ate his yogurt. Family suspected abuse but did nothing and figured her mother would sort it out. The sad part is she had a social worker who claims she did not see anything. Both parents were charged but it was too late for Luisa Brown. Only if someone stepped on time, this little girl would be alive today. Just like the staged situation in the article about the woman with the broken ankle.

 All these situations are brought to life in the news, articles, and workplace and even at home, with that, behaviors and actions of certain people are seen and maybe we all can learn from them.Everyone has a choice to help or not but responding would prevent a lot of tragedies.

Blog # 10 CATW Practice 3

      Predetermined roles for children? Lucille Forer wrote this article "How Your Birth Order Influences Your Life Adjustment”. A child’s characteristics, behavioral and how they view themselves are impacted by the order in which they were born. The child takes on a particular role in the family dynamic and learns different mannerisms. Just like the older sibling is the reliable one, compared to the younger siblings. I agree with the author on “It influences him to develop certain attitudes toward himself and toward other people and helps him develop specific patterns of behavior” This all coming from a middle child too!

     I have developed certain behaviors from being the middle child. I learned to be quiet but effective. To wait and listen before I speak. Some might not think this is a good thing. I found that I learned more, improved skills in whatever I was doing or wanted to do. I also felt there were benefits growing up in a large family.

     In the movie “Home Alone” is an example of the youngest sibling being irresponsible. Macaulay Culkin gets in to trouble and is sent to his room for punishment. Culkin wakes up late and misses the family vacation and is all alone! I this turn of events he develops the traits of an only child. Culkin learns to fend for himself because no one is there to take care of him. It just goes to show the adaptability.

     There are many situations which depicts this article like “My Keeper” is a story of an older sister having to take on a mentally ill younger sister. She becomes her guardian and provider, just like the characteristics of the older sibling.

     Everyone has distinct characteristics from our upbringing and environment. Be it good or bad ones, everyone needs to acknowledge them and make a change if needed. Having the traits or behaviors could be beneficial if used correctly.

Blog # 9

        Who are the real heroes’ today?  People want to believe a person who is living the everyday hero lifestyle is the person we need. I disagree; I believe the one act can change a person’s life in a second. The hero does not need recognition or the glamour; it might be nice for a little while but not necessary. Real heroes do the” act” of heroism without thought just reaction. I am inspired to say the real hero is the person who commits the act, instead of the person who portrays the knight in shining armor. I have two examples of heroes of my time or at least my kind of heroes.

      Perfect example of a hero is Capt. Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger, not everyone knows him but he is the captain that brought the plane down on the Hudson River. The accident was all over the news stations. Yes I know it was his job and the protocol, but he reacted and that saved all the lives on US Airways flight 1549. When they interviewed Capt. Sully his first words were Thank you but I could not have done it without his first Officer and the crew on board. He didn’t want the fame all for himself; he spoke about the crew being heroes and the phenomenal job of rescue. I was amazed by the humbleness of this person and thought to myself “wow” he’s a real hero. Capt. Sully did later on use his new publicly for a great cause. Capt. Sully worked on commercials with St. Jude’s children hospital and did charity work that raised money for the terminally ill cancer patients.

         Silent hero’s is the kind of phrase I am looking for when hearing about Michael Cawley. Michael was a firefighter that died at the world trade center. His story was one of many in the Daily News the following months after 9/11. Michael worked the night before covering for a co-worker and was relieved early the last day which was the infamous 9/11. The call came in about the attacks and got right back on the truck because he knew his best friend was there.  Unfortunately Michael lost his life beside his best friends and died doing the job he loved. I know his story is similar to most of the 9/11 stories heard today, but it hit home knowing he wasn’t supposed to be there. He went anyway, determined to make sure he saved his best friend and many more lives. It just goes to show you that acts are not motivated by fame and fortune. Their motivation runs a little deeper and I appreciate the humanity that’s left in this world.

      In my conclusion intent to “help” or a good deed should be genuine and there is no need for the circus show afterwards. Everyone should be reminded that not every good deed is shown on the news either. My personal favor quote is “Know in your heart what good things you do and just pray they outweigh the bad”.  

Blog # 8 Revised CATW Practice 1

          In music therapy the new wave compared to traditional medicine? In this article which was adapted from “How and Why Is Music A Good Tool” by Elizabeth Scott. The author expresses benefits from music therapy are seen producing a positive result, physically and mentally to a variety of patients, with a variety of diagnoses. The health care industry is recognizing music therapy and is expanding quickly. Different techniques are being researched, and have shown how the brain reacts to this new therapy. I agree with the author and the article on that there are benefits of music therapy.

       Research has proven the positive effects it has on people, also similar research how breathing and heart rates are impacted by music. You do not have to be sick to feel the effect. I personally love to put on music while cleaning. It calms me when am stuck in traffic, it helps me focus working out.It gets me motivated in many ways.

       The benefits are natural; patients who are already on medication and need to try something new and different. On the website cancercare.org, Cancer patients are being exposed to radiation, chemo and other harsh therapies. Patient’s bodies are deteriorating from all the unnatural therapies, so researchers on the site are introducing less invasive therapies.  Music therapy is one of them; it is able to help them produce natural effects that will be beneficial to patients in the long run. This process heals the patient physically and mentally. Music therapy is noted for decreasing stress, depression, anxiety and many other ailments.

      Children also benefit from this new therapy; brainwaves are affected and prove to show difference in behavioral patterns. Children become more alert and think quicker are only some of the benefits. Children need different stimulants other than drugs, whether it prescribed or recreational. In an article from Parents magazine, I read how more and more children are prescribed drugs to fight the battle of ADHD and anxiety. Why not try Music therapy, Instead of the easy way out. Children have more anxiety issues today due to peer pressure, bullying and other factors. I watch news every day and have seen an increase of young teen suicides. Music therapy would benefit today’s youth in more ways than anyone knows.

      Knowledge and education on alternative therapies is the new age. We need more researches and experiments done to prove that our bodies and minds can provide natural healing processes. I believe Music therapy is just the beginning to integrative medicines.

Blog # 7

Do I act differently with others around? Carol Travis wrote the article “In Groups We Shrink”. The passage is about changes in people’s behaviors and actions in groups compared to people by themselves. Also doctors have another underlying cause called “Diffusion of Responsibility” or “Social Loafing” for an example of a person’s laid back behavior of “Oh someone is going to take care of it” I agree with the idea of diffusion of responsibility or social loafing stated in this article.

I have experienced numerous times when diffusion of responsibility has played out. One day I had gone to work earlier than usual and proceeded to down to the locker rooms. I was approached by employees with their concern about another employee who wasn’t feeling well. I first asked did anyone tell the manager on duty, their response was they did but she wants to go home so she is waiting for you to take care of it. I was appalled by that statement, but before I could confront her I checked up on the employee. Fortunately for him I stepped in, the employee had first signs of a heart attack. While all this is going on the manger on duty got dressed and left. This is just one situation amongst the many.

Diffusion of responsibility is typical heard or read in the news.  I read an article in the New York post in 2010 about a homeless man coming to aid of a woman who being attacked. The homeless was stabbed and left their in a pool of blood and 25 people walked passed him before action was taken. Shocked that this actually happened, I was so upset but unfortunately it happens. Social loafing is a similar concept as well; people are just plain lazy and figure someone else will figure it out.

None the less perfect example is the report about Luisa Brown. Watching channel 7 in 2008, a picture of this 7 year-old girl was shown. Little Brown was beaten to death by her step father all because she ate his yogurt. Family suspected abuse but did nothing and figured her mother would sort it out. The sad part is she had a social worker who claims she did not see anything. Both parents were charged but it was too late for Luisa Brown. Only if someone stepped on time, this little girl would be alive today. Just like the staged situation in the article about the woman with the broken ankle.

All these situations are brought to life in the news, articles, and workplace and even at home. Everyone has a choice to help or not but responding would prevent a lot of tragedies.

Blog 6: CATW practice 1

          In this article which was adapted from “How and Why Is Music A Good Tool” by Elizabeth Scott. The author expresses benefits from music therapy are seen producing a positive result, physically and mentally to a variety of patients, with a variety of diagnoses. The health care industry is recognizing music therapy and is expanding quickly. Different techniques are being researched, and have shown how the brain reacts to this new therapy. Also similar research how breathing and heart rates are impacted by music.

        In music therapy the new wave compared to traditional medicine? I agree with the author and the article on the benefits of music. Research has proven the positive effects it has on people. You do not have to be sick to feel the effect. I personally love to put on music while my daily activities are performed. It calms me when am stuck in traffic, it helps me focus working out.

       The benefits are natural; patients are all ready on medication and why not try something new and different. Cancer patients are being exposed to radiation, chemo and other harsh therapies. Their bodies deteriorating from all the unnatural therapies. Music therapy is able to help them produce natural effects that will be beneficial to patients in the long run. My mother listens to music on the way to chemo and it puts her in a better mood and she is much calmer.

       Music alone brings the family together without even noticing it. My mother will sing to her grandchildren and they will start change their moods. They’ll dance with her and sing. Children also benefit from this new therapy, brainwaves are effected and proves to show difference in behavioral patterns, more alert and quick thinking are some of the benefits. Children today need different stimulants other than drugs, whether it prescribed or recreational.

     Knowledge and education on alternative therapies is the new age. We need more researches and experiments done to prove that our bodies and minds can provide natural healing processes.

Blog # 5

        I am second generation American – Montenegrin former Yugoslavia. When the war started in Yugoslavia, we assumed it would never affect the towns where my parents came from but it did. Remembering how people were so tight knitted and close just gave me a false sense of security. Even though I wasn’t there, we had roots there, Family, homes and friends. The war which Bosnians, Serbs and Croatians were involved in, I felt had nothing to do with two small villages in Montenegro but it did.

        We grew all anxious of what was going on, American news reports were short and not informative at all. When USA had decided to go in try to help, I thought WOW what an amazing country. I felt proud and loved that my parents choose to come to America and raise their family. I felt everything was going to be ok, until reports starting coming out Yugoslavia of genocide and how Muslim men had to fight on the Serbian side killing their own brothers, Uncles and cousins etc. It was another holocaust and I was still not accepting the information that was presented. Until I had family staying with us from the refugee camps and they told me stories and showed me pictures.

        I couldn’t believe that the place that I felt that everyone was free, no matter what religion what background you came back from we were family. I heard tales on eastern European woman were taking over jobs in the bars but paid no mind to them, just I figured their going to where the money is. Families here and all over the world send money to the families that couldn’t get out. Movies, documentaries started coming out and I broke.  Solid reports came out that UN peacekeepers were aiding or turning a blind eye to human trafficking, little girls form Russian or where ever they could get them. But over half over men were killed, so who were they bringing them in for? All to mask the corruption in the former Yugoslavia, I thought the American peacekeepers were going over to help not to cause more hectic. My world was turned upside down and looked at the world differently. Well to conclude my essay I watch BBC and overseas new reports now and try to see the real truth of what going on in this world. I also talk to people and ask questions.

        I am questioning the beliefs on religions right now, I feel it’s all an organization or a way of trying to get people to take sides. I always have been open and respectful to others religion and willing to learn about them. I found out a lot of the text in everyone’s Quran, Bible and Torahis alike. I found a balance but

Blog 4: Summary of “The Allegory of the Cave.”

In Plato’s passage, The Allegory of the Cave, Socrates discusses to a fellow prisoner, Glaucon, on how the human race has evolved through consciousness. A group of prisoners are bound and chained since childhood, and forced to face a wall. The fire behind them reflects images of all different objects. What will happen when these prisoners are freed, they will stand up, and go towards the light. They will feel physical pain until their eyes adjust, but once their eyes adjust the images that they see, are not what they are use too. Once the prisoner is acclimated to his new world, he feels the need to help and free his fellow prisoners. To show them the light as well, the prisoner goes back and learns that without a wanting or a need to be aware there is no helping them. The prisoner now knows of the outside world, and he refuses to go back to that same lifestyle. Prisoners have their conditioned lives and they will kill anyone that tries to take them out of the darkness. Socrates says to Glaucon on the story that he just told; the prison symbolizes our world now that we live in, and what we see, the light and fire symbolizes the way out of the darkness. This expression through symbolism is Socrates opinion on awareness and consciousness and he feels right or wrong that’s the way he sees things.

Blog # 3 Revised Diagnostic

Silent moments are a thing of the past for author Kalle lasn. The article "Hype" throws light upon a new epidemic of advertisement. The unconscious and conscious minds of humanity are being corrupted with a logo or a product message. The advertising business is soaring at a high pace and aggressively.  Companies are utilizing all aspects of everyday life to push their products. The typical places are not where we are going to see them anymore. They are in classrooms, on gas nozzles and shopping carts, those are some of the new areas that are targeted now. With all the new technology to promote new products the possibilities are endless for advertising companies.  The author is left with is an annoying hotdog song repeating itself instead of the classical Beethoven's ninth symphony.

I concur with the writer on this topic. While the writer has scrutinized the issue on how today’s society is blinded by advertisements, there is a deeper dilemma here. Corporate America has pushed their way through the ranks of an excess need of promoting products. Billions, millions and many more messages are displayed throughout America. This is fast growing business and there is no ceasing anytime soon. I feel that the society is to blame for this because everyone wants new products yesterday.  Just like apple products, buy an I PAD today and two weeks later a newer version comes out.

How far will companies go to promote their products? Companies obviously have no limits on where and what they will use to endorse their products. The unspoiled views of nature and its beauty have been tainted as well. You can no longer just sit in your car and take a ride without seeing billboards poking out of wheat fields. I didn’t need to drive far, I was driving to the tunnel and I was distracted by all the boards and their messages, which was a little freighting. I could have got into an accident and it would have been my fault. Not the companies that post those ridiculous ads.

I have noticed children now have become more materialistic. Also more children are being diagnosed with AHAD more now than ever before.  Is it because we’re able to diagnose it better or is it the environment we are living now. Today’s society is fast paced and companies are also looking for next big thing. Even in classrooms where it is suppose be a safe haven, they are being exposed to the marketing race. Corporate America knows how to hit below the belt; their research has shown children are easy targets. I watch my nephews and nieces glued to the T.V. and when there is new toy or game shown, they get all excited and the only words that come out of their mouth are “I want that”. It doesn’t matter if they just had a birthday and no matter how many gifts they got, there’s always something new.

I personally see the change in society and the compulsion of having everything and more. We need to find a balance between what’s too much and what is realistic. I do think that the companies should have a cap or a limit to their scope of advertising, but as well it should start at home with the family.

Blog 2: Summary of "Hype"

Silent moments are a thing of the past for author Kalle lasn. The article "Hype" throws light upon a new epidemic of advertistment. Advertising is soaring at a high pace, Companies are utilizing all aspects of everyday life to push their products. The typical places are not where we are going to see them anymore.They are in classrooms, gas nozzles and shopping carts are some of the new areas that are targeted now. All the author is left with is a annoying hotdog song repeating itself instead of the classical Beethoven's ninth symphony.

Blog 1 : Diagnostic

Silent moments are of the past! This passage is excerpted from the “Hype”. Author Kalle lasn observes the changing of todays culture thru advertisements. This is how the world and our children becoming materlistic and how their apperication for nature are diminishing, but who’s to blame?

Kalle Lasn has observed in today’s society everything is covered in advertisements. Natural beauty has been disturbed as well. Billboards sticking out of wheat fields like sore thumbs. Three thousand marketing messages per day !!!!! Estimated 12 billion displays ads,3 million radio commercials and more than 200,000 TV commercials have steadily and without relent invaded our everyday life. Kalle Lasn has pointed out how our minds are being bombarded with these riduclous need to promote products and sell.

I absolutely agree with the writer on the article. Even our childerns classrooms are being used by these companies. Pepsi and Snickers ads are shown to intise them to buy these products. Not just to buy some but more of every product. Its hard enough to get the kids away from T.V. and their video games, now we have to deal with it on everything and everywhere a child lays their eyes??

I think a limit should be put on the companies advertisement scope. It’s all up to the society though, to put a stop on the rat race between these companies. A childs mind from twenty years ago compared to a childs mind of today has drasically changed for the worse. I myself of the older generation enjoy the unspoiled views of nature and its beauty without all the hoopaloo.