English Is a Funny Language Essay

English Is a Funny Language Essay During the mid-400s the country that we now call England was part of the Roman Empire. It was a land full of temporary settlers and immigrants. Among those residing in England were a group of Germanic settlers, made up of Jutes, Angles and Saxons. These settlers immigrated to England from various parts of mainland North Western Europe and with them they brought a language that provided the building blocks of English. The mixing of the Germanic settlers dialects with the languages of other immigrants led to the creation of Old English (the earliest form of English). This form of English was very different than any form of English that is spoken today and although it did consist of parts of speech that have some similarities to modern English. The language would be considered incomprehensible to the modern English speaker. Over the next 600 years the language of English was grew by taking words and expressions from the languages of the surrounding cultures. This was mostly due to more groups of people immigrating to England or in some cases, some groups invading the country. For example Roman missionaries who immigrated to England introduced many religious words such as minster and alter and the Vikings who invaded England introduced words such knife, take and root. During the Middle Ages (c. 1000-1300) English started to significantly evolve. The Normans, who were the people of Normandy (a region in northern France) invaded England in 1066. This event led to the Latin and French languages heavily influencing the English speaking people and their language. Thousands and thousands of new words became incorporated into the English language. The language of English was constantly evolving, creating what we call today Middle English, a form of language that closer resembles what we speak today. This period was also quite significant because during this time London become the legal and trade center of Britain. The language of London (Middle English) became the standard language. At the time there were other languages and dialects and people began to realize that in order to gain political or economic power a person had to be able to communicate in English. Many traders began to use this standard form of English. These same traders began to spread English all over the world. In the mid-1500s, the United Kingdom became a colonial powerhouse and the British Empire began to set up colonies all over the world. As the British empire continued to significantly grown and colonize the English language would spread further and further away from its birthplace. The growth of the British Empire, lead to English becoming a part of Europe, North America, India, Africa, Australia and many other parts of the world. As the empire branched out, new words were taken from the local languages and incorporated into English. English served as the lingua franca for these colonies. The term lingua franca refers to the language that is used as the means of communication among speakers of other languages. Keep in mind that these places each had their own distinct indigenous languages, and in some cases multiple languages. However the different cultures within these colonies would communicate in English. As this was happening, English continued to evolve into a closer version of Modern English. Also, around this time (1600s) some significant pieces of English literature were written. An author known as William Shakespeare was creating works that were gaining a lot of attention, these works were in English. Also, in 1611 the King James Bible was written in English. Unlike many other religious based books (not all) that were published in Latin and French, this bible was produced in English. This bible became the standard for the Church of England. English was becoming the language of religion. From the 17th century on, English continued to spread through British colonization. As new areas were becoming British settlement, new pockets of the planet would begin to communicate in English. The industrial revolution occurred throughout the 18th and 19th century. This was a time where major technological advancements occurred in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and transportation. Machines were making life easier and producing goods at much faster rate. The industrial revolution began in the United Kingdom and then spread throughout Europe, North America, and eventually the rest of the world. All of this newly developed technology was having an affect on the socioeconomic and cultural conditions of the time. A significant majority of the inventors during this period were English speakers. Why English? English is a global language. English as a global language didnt happen overnight, it was a long process. Thinking about the history of the language of English, what are the major factors that lead to English becoming the lingua franca? It has nothing to do with how English looks or its structure. If you think about it, it is actually a very confusing language compared some of the other languages in the world. Here are a few things to think about 82% of the entire world uses some form of English as means to communicate. There are only 35 countries where English is not the first foreign language. Over two billion people partake in some form of English acquisition education. Heres a question to ponder, which country currently has the largest amount of English langue leaners? The answer is China. The answer to Why English has a lot to do with the same reasons why English was able to spread internationally in the first place. English represents opportunity. While peoples native language helps them navigate through their daily lives within their geographic area (city, town or country). The language of English represents an opportunity to become part of a global conversation. The four pillars to Englishs growth into a global language: Politics, Economics, Technology and Social Politics: Looking back at history, one can point to the political factors as first reason why English was able to spread from a small island to all over the world. In modern history the people who held the majority of the worlds power were English speakers. Also, looking back at the last century, world power has shifted from the hands of the British into the hands of the Americans, another English speaking country. Economics: The economic influence on the English language is closely tied to the political factors. The 19th saw the growth of English speakers occur at much more rapid rate than the previous centuries. Much of this has to do with the fact that the most financially powerful countries in the world during the 19th and 20th century were English speaking countries, the United States and Britain. If money does talk, during this time period it was speaking in (or learning) English. These days, practically every trade centre in the world uses English this includes countries that have a language other than English as the official language. Technology: As mentioned before, the industrial revolution had an enormous impact on the English language. British inventors came up with ways to mass produce textiles metals and glass. As well they innovated mining and they created the steam engine. If you did a web search on the products that were born out of the industrial revolution, you will be amazed how many came from English speaking countries. Here are some questions to think about: What web search tool did you just use to find out more information? What are the must have technologies of this generation? Where did many of them originate? How often do you see a product designed by Microsoft or Apple? Social: If you take a look at how media is delivered you can see English is absolutely everywhere. Through social media, the world is rapidly becoming more and more interconnected. People are now viewing themselves as global citizens. World issues are discussed in English and by having a working knowledge of the English language, people feel that they too can share their thoughts on common issues that are shared throughout the world. This includes such issues as poverty, the economy, climate change, political struggles and human rights. Social and Technology Coming Together English is widely used on the internet for the same reasons why English became so widespread during the industrial revolution. The internet began in English speaking countries. To add to it, think about the rapidly increasing interest in social networking through the internet. Think about the fact that Facebook was founded in the US in 2004 and since then has become one of the most visited websites in the world. Also, Google is the most widely used search engine in the world, also created by Americans. Standard English (S.E.) is the form of English that is generally accepted as the linguistic norm of an Anglophone country. But is speaking English that easy of a concept to grasp? We have learnt that English was created through a mixture of numerous different dialects. As it grew throughout the world it continued to expand encompassing more and more words from other languages. Countries such as Britain, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa all are English speaking countries and yet their form of English isnt identical. In fact with in these countries there are various forms of English. Think about (and do a web search) on these terms: Hinglish Gullah Anglo-Manx These are just three of a huge number of dialects of the English language and within some of the dialects there are sub-dialects. English goes well beyond standard English. Part 2 How language works (and how confusing the English language really is) Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana Think about this question: How would you define the word language? Language can be defined as any form of communication. Language can be verbal and physical, it can be learned through direct instruction and it can also be biologically innate. The study of language is a very vast topic. Language is made up of numerous interconnected components and within each of those components there are many subcomponents (some of which have many subcomponents of their own). When people chat on the phone or talk over dinner they do not generally think about how they are communicating (language, volume, speed, intonation, gestures, etc), they think about what they are communicating (what you are trying to explain to the person you are speaking to). Phonology Phonology is the study of sounds in a language. The study of phonology offers us a better understanding of how speech sounds relate to pronunciation. Languages are unique and each one has different a phonological system. Think about this: What is the English equivalent to this Hungarian phrase? Sok szerencsà ©t kivà ¡nok The answer : good luck. Languages have their own attributes in regards to word stress, rhythm, stresses and what sounds are used to produce specific meanings. This is one of the reasons why learning a second language can be so difficult, what can be expressed in one syllable in one language may take many syllables in another. Semantics Linguistic semantics is the study of the meaning of language. This involves how meaning is created by combining single words into larger forms of text. If you break down a passage and actually think about each word on its own, it can get quite confusing. When learning a new language an English language learner faces many linguistic semantic challenges that English speaks may not even take into consideration. Think about these sentences: The winds blew the door open. / The road winds quite a bit. Or think about these sentences: The answers on the exam were invalid. / The terrible injury left the man an invalid. These are only some of the challenges an English language learner faces, think about these words and their meanings: Synonymy Words that have the same meanings Example: happy and glad Antonym Words that have opposites meanings Example: hot and cold. Polysemy A word which has two or more related meanings For example, wood could refer to a piece of a tree or a geographical area that is consists of many trees. Homonym A word which has two or more meanings For example, a plant could be a factory in which products are made or a living organism such as a tree Homophone Different words that are pronounced the same but spelled differently For example two, too and to Homograph Different words that are spelled the same but pronounced differently For example minute and minute Pragmatics Pragmatics is the study of the use of language. Pragmatics analyses the context of words and how they contribute to the overall meaning of the text. A sentence on its own can be quite misleading. Think about this: The fish are ready to eat. Does this mean the fish are hungry or they have been cooked long enough that they are now edible? Syntax Syntax is the study of the structure of language with a focus on how grammatically correct statements are formed. There are many syntactic categories including nouns, verbs, adjectives , prepositions and adverbs Orthography Orthography is the study of letters and how they are used to express sounds and form words. Orthography takes a close look at the writing systems of a language. For English language instructors, English in written form can be area in which many learners struggle with. Many of the things that we write without even thinking about can cause great confusion to an English language learner. Take for example: The words boot, book, blood and brooch. All of these words use oo however each of them have different pronunciations for this vowel combination. Now look at these three words: check, machine, character In each one the ch is pronounced differently Another thing that needs to be taken into consideration is the fact that not every language follows the same pattern of pronunciations. PART 3 ESL and EFL same same but different -Tinglish saying English as a Second Language (ESL) teaching refers to teaching English in a country where English is already an official language. For example, Canada, The United States, and Britain are countries that offer English language learners ESL programs. English as a Foreign Language (EFL) refers to teaching English in a country where English is not the most predominant language that is spoken. Due to Englishs place in the global scheme, EFL schools are quickly becoming popular all over non-English speaking nations. The biggest consideration an instructor must take into account is that EFL and ESL instruction does at times require different approaches to lesson planning. This is mostly due to the fact that English language learners living in an English speaking country are taking lessons as a means of linguistic survival. Although grammar is obviously an important part of English language learning, these students may feel pressed to first learn how to communicate in a way that the people within their community understand them even if they are using broken English. These students are taking English lessons to open up more opportunities both financially and socially to themselves and possibly members of their families. ESL students will also have the opportunity to continuously practice their English outside of the classroom setting. As a result the instructor should consider which topics are the most necessary. EFL students may not feel the urgency to learn survival English right away. An EFL student may be partaking in English lessons for a future trip, to open up future social, academic and economic opportunities or for solely for enjoyment. There are a number of EFL academic institutions around the world that cater to students who are taking English simply because it is their hobby. The distinction between second and foreign language learning is what is actually being learned, where it is being learned and how it is learned. This course will dive deeper into what considerations should be taken into account when creating and delivering ESL and EFL lessons. Terminology brb, ttyl ok? wow, I saved a ton of time with those acronyms. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ Stephen Colbert There is a lot of terminology associated with English language instruction. English Speakers can fall under many different categories and there are many acronyms to describe the types of English speakers. The following section is a review of some of the most commonly used terms and acronyms. The language in which a person is learning is commonly referred to as the students target language while Native language is the term associated with a persons first language or sometimes referred to as their mother tongue. L1 is the abbreviation for first language spoken by an individual, also referred to as a persons mother tongue . L1 English refers to a person who uses English as their first language. L1 is a term that can be used for any language for example a person who uses French as their first language would be considered an L1 French speaker. L2 is an abbreviation for a persons second language, or a language that is not their L1. Someone who is referred as L1 Japanese and L2 English is considered a Japanese speaker who has a working knowledge of English. English for Academic Purposes (EAP) is a form of ESL/EFL instruction that focuses on academia. This would include subject areas such as writing formal reports, presentations for school related purposes and reading academic works. Some areas of the world may refer to EFL lessons as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL)( refers to the study of English for a particular (usually job related) purpose. For example a course that focuses solely on English for the tourism industry. TOEFL is an official Test of English as a Foreign Language. This test focuses on English proficiency for international students who are interested in studying at an English speaking institution. TOEIC is the Test of English for International Communication. Originally used in Japan but now a worldwide tool, TOEIC is a standardized test (multiple choice) that is used to assess ones proficiency in English. Both TOEFL and TOEIC has become a recognized standard throughout the world. PART 4 Principles of Second Language Acquisition Learn a new language and get a new soul.   Czech Proverb Over the last century, many linguists have researched and theorized on how people acquire a second language. As a result, a number of theoretical frameworks have been developed. There isnt one accepted theory of language acquisition but rather a variety of theories each with a different focus and different limitations. This section will briefly explore different theories of second language acquisition. Chomskys Innate Cognitive Process Theory Do you think an adult learns a second language the same way a child learns a first language? Why or why not? Professor Noam Chomsky is one of the most well-known professors of linguistic studies. Chomsky s works support a nativists theory that acquiring is actually in our genetic makeup and we are born with innate abilities known as an LAD (Language Acquisition Device). Language acquisition does not rely on formal instruction. In its simplest form, Chomskys theory is that we are born with the innate ability to learn basic language which include the rules of grammar. We develop our language skills by listening to the people who raise us. Infants and toddlers do not necessarily require someone to teach them language, as long as there is linguistic input around they will inevitably acquire language. The process of selecting the correct pattern of words is done unconsciously. Chomsky refers to this as our universal grammar and supports this theory by pointing out that all human languages share similar patterns (for example present and past tense). There is a difference between the acquisition of a first language and a second language. Those who have had experience teaching both adults and children may have noticed that children learn their first language in a more fluid fashion while adults rate of acquisition varies from person to person. Now, keep in mind Chomskys theory. Children do not need to be taught their first language whereas adults require formal instruction. With children it is a natural progression due to needs and environment. With adults second language acquisition is dependent upon motivation, attitude, and ability Even though Chomskys theory appears to put adults at a disadvantage when it comes to acquiring language, adults do possess skills that enable them to learn another language. Adults possess competency in a first language which could be used to further understand and retain a second language. For example, associating L2 words with L1 words, creating visual and audio clues. Adults are able to problem solve and simplify complex concepts. Adults understand inflection and tone. Adult have the cognitive ability to review and reflect Adults can draw on mnemonics devices these are memory tools such as creating acronyms or simple rhymes *try a web search on common mnemonic devices Chomskys concepts have been both highly accepted and criticized by his peers. Krashens Five Hypotheses One of the most noted modern linguist and educational researcher is psychologist Dr. Stephen Krashen. Dr, Krashen is well known for his theories of language acquisition and development most of which were published in a series of books throughout the 1980s. Along with Tracey Terrell, Dr. Krashen also researched and authored works on the natural approach to language teaching. Dr. Krashens theory of second language acquisition explores how we learn language through five main hypotheses: the natural order hypothesis the acquisition-learning hypothesis the monitor hypothesis the input hypothesis the affective filter hypothesis The Natural Order Hypothesis This hypothesis suggests that language acquisition follows a natural pattern of progress. Just like in movement, one first learns to crawl, stand, walk and then run, language acquisition in every language develops through a series of sequential steps that a person progresses through naturally. By studying this natural progressing of language acquisition, researchers have uncovered a predictable pattern in language acquisition. By following this pattern teachers can develop a series of instructions that best suit the needs of older language learners. This hypothesis coincides Noam Chomskys theory that humans naturally have a built-in Language Acquisition Device (LAD), that enables humans to understand and acquire language from infancy. Teachers need to take the natural order hypothesis when introducing language concepts. This can be done by ensuring first introducing models that are moderately easy for learners to acquire. As instructors should *scaffold difficult concepts. Perform a web search and find a definition educational scaffolding: Educational scaffolding refers to the idea that in order for students to properly achieve academic success, the instructor needs to ensure that instructional supports have been when students are first introduced to a new topic. The Acquisition Learning Hypothesis. The Acquisition-Learning hypothesis is considered by many linguists as the most fundamental of all Krashens hypothesizes . The Acquisition Learning hypothesis suggests that second language performance is a product of two separate systems that happen consciously and subconsciously in a persons brain. The first system is the acquired system. Language acquisition occurs subconsciously through natural communication. In other words people acquire a second language when they are exposed to meaningful verbal interactions with speakers of the target language. The second system focuses on formal instruction. Krashen believes that this system holds less importance than the acquired system however it is still a component of language acquisition. The learning system occurs when people consciously focus on learning a language. In its simplest form you can think of it this way, a person learns a language by studying it they acquire a language by immersing themselves in it. Instructors need to create opportunities for students to use the target language in an authentic manor within their classrooms. This is especially important in the EFL classroom because students will not have the opportunity to use the target language outside of the classroom. How could and EFL instructor incorporate the acquisition-learning hypothesis into their teachings? Role playing (creating simulated scenarios) The Monitor Hypothesis The Monitor Hypothesis corresponds directly with the Acquisition- Learning hypothesis. The Monitor Hypothesis focuses on the effects of direct language instruction. Krashen explained in the Acquisition- Learning hypothesis that language acquisition occurs during exposure to natural communication. In essence, the language we acquire through this process is fine-tuned and properly edited through grammar and language instruction. Instruction and traditional language learning activities monitor and correct language. The Input Hypothesis. Comprehensible input are the messages that a language learner understands. These messages can come in the form of written text (books, signs, subtitles) or oral language (conversations, radio). The input hypothesis suggests that in order for language acquisition to occur, the learner must receive comprehensible input that is slightly above their level of language knowledge. This is often documented as Comprehensible Input +1. The +1 represents the next level in language. EFL instructors need to ensure that they are constantly taking the input hypothesis into consideration when creating and implementing lessons. Instructors need to provide as much comprehensible input as possible, especially in the EFL class because learners are not exposed to the target language outside of the classroom setting. The Affective Filter Hypothesis. Affective Filter Hypothesis focuses on the theory that confidence and anxiety have a direct correlation to language learning. In order to properly acquire language, a person needs to be comfortable and feel confident in their surroundings. When a language learner is uncomfortable they tend to mentally build up barriers that prevent acquisition. Keeping in mind the Affective Filter Hypothesis, list a few barriers in an academic environment that could directly hinder language acquisition. How can an instructor ensure that a learner feels safe? -begin lessons with ice breakers -establish a classroom routine with a set of norms -consider seating arrangements -incorporate dual language resources use humour -include teaching methods that allow for student interaction -address students by name -use eye contact -use positive language (*6) The Reading Hypothesis It should also be noted that Krashens more recent research has concluded that the more a person reads in a second language, the more vocabulary they will acquire. Involving a variety of texts in a language classroom will increase the learners knowledge of the target language and also offer the learner opportunities to view how the target language can be used in real-life contexts. List some forms of texts that will offer students an opportunity to view language in real-life contexts. -advertisements -instructional signs -subtitles -novels -scripts Vygotskys Zone of Proximal Development theory Having English language learners work in small groups is a recommend strategy. Why do you think students are more successfully when broken up into small groups? Although he only lived to the age of 38, Lev Vygotsky was considered one of the founders of cultural historical psychology. Vygotsky lived through Russian Revolution of the early 1900s and his works were largely unknown to the West until it was published in 1962, more than 25 years after he died. As a social constructivist he believed that social interaction was key to the cognitive and language development of children. He observed how higher level mental functions developed within particular cultural groups and individually through social interactions with significant people in most cases a childs primary caregivers. Vygotsky developed the Zone of Proximal Development theory, which outlines the notion that a students performance of certain tasks improve greatly when they are being guided by an adult or when working in a group of their peers. Vygotsky referred to these peers as More Knowledgeable Other(s) (MKO). The MKO is anyone who has a better understanding or more knowledge in the area of study than the learner. The MKO could be a teacher, coach, or peers. Vygotsky theorized that working alone is less constructive because when a student works with others, the gaps between what the student knows and what can be known is bridged. Working in these groups is working within the Zone of Proximal Development. Think of it this way: (Picture) (1)Student X has some understanding of some of the concepts but needs to learn other concepts for a greater understanding of the materials (2)Student X is grouped with others who know these concepts but some of the members of the groups may not know some of the concepts Student X knows (they have all entered the zone) (3) Everyone walks out of the group with new information Think about this: Why is the second language classroom a perfect environment to apply the Zone of Proximal Development theory? Unlike a situation in which a teacher or lecturer delivers information to students, the ZPD theory promotes the notion that students need to play an active role in learning. ZPD theory offers an opportunity for everyone to learn from each other. In an ESL/EFL classroom, the teacher can set up small groups in which students act as the MKOs and learn off each other. Think about it: How does the Zone of Proximal Development theory compliment Stephen Krashens Input Hypothesis? Think about students working in groups. -In essence both theories work on the notion that learning takes place when a learner is exposed to a person who has slightly more advanced knowledge in that subject area. Group work in the ESL/EFL classroom is very successful bec

How Do Artists Use Symbols in the Meaning of Their Work Essay

Artists use symbols in different ways in their works to define their true feelings and to illustrate ideas and experiences. The three artists I will use to demonstrate how symbols can be used to gain different meanings are, Joseph Cornell, Salvador Dali and Rosalie Gascoigne. Cornell uses symbols to represent his fantasies and dreams, Dali also uses surrealist symbols to represent his desires and dreams and Gascoigne uses symbols to represent the landscape where she lived and decay. Joseph Cornell is an American sculptor and filmmaker. He was born on the 24th of December 1903 and died on the 29th of December 1972. Bebe Marie was created in the early 1940’s. It is made from a papered and painted wooden box that contains a doll in a dress made of cloth and a flower made also of cloth. If you look closely you will notice the intricate detail on the doll that has been placed behind the cluster of twigs. Because there is a doll in this sculpture, it perhaps has something to do with childhood and the numerous dark twigs suggests that the childhood portrayed was not a very delightful or happy one. Cornell likes to depict fantasy inspired and illusory images in his works, like in his work The Hotel Eden. Because Cornell lived in New York, he found many interesting and strange objects. He was also interested in second-hand bookstores, so he found a way to incorporate that in his work. Salvador Dali is a Spanish painter, sculptor and filmmaker. He was born on May 11th 1904 and he died on January the 23rd 1989. The Persistence of Memory was made in 1931. It was created by using oil on canvas. The work mainly features melted clocks and sky above the horizon. The clocks in this particular work are what give it a meaning. These symbols represent the facts that dreams can change and become strange and distorted. This work revolves around dreams and personal psychological fantasies. In fact, all of Dali’s work is based around dreams and psychological fantasies and generally things that simply do not occur in reality. For example, Dali’s work Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bumblebee around a Pomegranate a Moment Before Awakening. This work also goes back to the idea of reality and fantasy because of the tigers attacking the nude woman and the elephant hovering above the ocean. Rosalie Gascoigne is an Australian artist and sculptor. She was born on the 25th January 1917 and had died on the 23rd of October 1999. Regimental Colours was started in 1990 and finished in 1991. It was made using sawn soft drink crates on plywood. The work features various brands of soft drinks such as Schweppes. The main symbol in this work is the worn down surface. Many of her works are created around her interest in her surroundings. She likes to use older, worn down materials and signs that show age and have a history. Just like show has shown in Regimental Colours and also her work Sweet Lovers, she does this to show the memories and experiences through the aging material. In conclusion, symbols used in artworks are a very great way to express your inner feelings and emotions. Artists use this to their advantage so they can make their works more interesting and in depth.

Health and Social Care Essay

There are many indicators of health to find out about my volunteer’s present health. Firstly, there is the peak flow meter. My volunteer’s peak flow reading is 410 therefore this shows that she shows no signs of asthma and her breathing rate is average and shows that her health is in a positive state. My volunteers BMI shows that she is slightly overweight keeping this in mind I have set her targets which will help her to have a average weight. Last of all, my volunteer’s blood pressure is approximately a reading of 120/80 mmHg which is in general an average reading of blood pressure. Therefore this shows that she does not show signs of high blood pressure and this also indicates that she is not under a lot of stress or pressure from work and studies. This also reveals that my volunteer’s present blood pressure is proportional to average and that her present health is essentially positive. Page 1Zoom in Page 1 2 3 4 5 Next Level: GCSE Subject: Health and Social Care Word count: 1506 Save View my saved documents Submit similar document Share this Health and Social Care Download this essay Print Save GCSE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE An extract from this document†¦ Task 1: There are many indicators of health. Indicators of health can help you find out about an individual’s health. The main indicators are: * Height weight charts * Body Mass Index (BMI) * Blood pressure * Peak flow meter * Resting pulse and recovery after exercise Height weight charts: When babies are born, they are weighed and measured regularly to display whether they are fed properly. They are also assessed to show their growth rates and see if they are growing properly. Also to see if the baby is underweight, overweight, average etc†¦ Additionally, they are weighed every week for the first two months of their lives. Body Mass Index (BMI): Body mass index is an indicator of good health as it measures the amount of fat in an individual’s body in association to his or hers height. It is a formula used to show your body weight in relation to your height to see whether you are underweight, average or overweight. BMI equals weight in kilograms divided by height in meters. Blood pressure: Blood is carried from the heart to all parts of your body in vessels called arteries. Blood pressure is the pressure in which the blood is applied in the arteries and the force in which the heart pumps blood. According to Google, they define blood pressure as, â€Å"the level of pressure that the blood exerts against the walls of the arteries as it passes through them. † This is also a successful indicator of an individual’s health as it measures how fast your heart is pumping blood therefore it advises you if you need to do certain things to help slow down the rate at which your heart pumps. As you can see, it’s a very positive thing and can help stop you from developing diseases such as heart disease and can make your kidney work harder which is very damaging. Blood pressure is very vital to the body and if it is average then your lifestyle will be much more satisfied. Peak Flow Meter: Another way of checking on your health is by using a peak flow meter. A peal flow meter is a special kind of instrument that measures the breathing rate and the volume of air taken in by an individual in the time of each breath. In addition, they are also used to distinguish how efficient a person’s lungs are. To use a peak flow meter, a person has to blow as hard as he/she can into the mouthpiece and then examine the pointer and check the reading however you must do this three times to assure that you get an accurate reading. The measurement is used to estimate the width of the air flow in the bronchi. This is a positive indicator and you can use it to find out whether an individual is breathing properly or if they are managing their asthma correctly etc†¦ Resting pulse and recovery after exercise: A person’s resting pulse rate is the pulse rate when a person is sitting still without moving. You can measure your pulse rate by placing pressure on your wrist or your neck. Your recovery heart rate is the number of beats per minute your heart drops when you stop moving. The higher the fitness levels the faster the drop in heart rate. The most common recovery heart rate can be measurement of up to 1 to 2 minutes however a complete recovery heart may consist of up to an hour. This is a positive indicator of health considering it shows how healthy and athletic your body is after exercise. If your heart does not pump that fast then you are in a healthy and fit state so your body can be affected by much less diseases or illnesses therefore it is very beneficial and helpful. Task 2: There are many indicators of health to find out about my volunteer’s present health. Firstly, there is the peak flow meter. My volunteer’s peak flow reading is 410 therefore this shows that she shows no signs of asthma and her breathing rate is average and shows that her health is in a positive state. My volunteers BMI shows that she is slightly overweight keeping this in mind I have set her targets which will help her to have a average weight. Last of all, my volunteer’s blood pressure is approximately a reading of 120/80 mmHg which is in general an average reading of blood pressure. Therefore this shows that she does not show signs of high blood pressure and this also indicates that she is not under a lot of stress or pressure from work and studies. This also reveals that my volunteer’s present blood pressure is proportional to average and that her present health is essentially positive. Task 4: I have set 3 targets for my volunteer to meet and stick to in order for her to improve her health. Those three targets that I have set are: 1) To have a balanced diet 2) To do regular exercise 3) To improve personal hygiene I think that to improve my volunteer’s health needs, she must stick to these particular targets so that her lifestyle can be developed and progressed so that she can achieve her overall needs. Task 5: Previously, I had chosen 3 targets for my volunteer to stick to in order to improve her health. Here is a health plan for each of those targets for my volunteer to know thoroughly how to improve and stick to her targets. Wash clothing and linens on a regular basis. However, the dilemma is germs and bacteria can develop and increase in your dirty clothes basket so try to be persistent on a weekly cleaning schedule.

Essay on The Death of Alexander the Great - 7402 Words

In the year 324 BC, Alexander, on the way to Babylon, came to his traditional summer retreat of Ecbatana. There, he held a massive festival in honor of Dionysus in which it is believed up to 3,000 Greek performers were brought to provide entertainment. Night after night, lavish drinking parties ensued in which Alexander and Hephaestion, (his supposed alter ego) undoubtedly participated in. It was during this time of extravagant celebration that Hephaestion became ill and contracted a high fever. Hephaestions physician Glaucias put him on a strict diet and monitored his health. At first, this appeared to be working until on the seventh day of Hephaestions illness, Glaucias went to the theater and Hephaestion decided to ignore the†¦show more content†¦Hephaestion, being Commander of the Companion Cavalry, had his post retired, as no man was ever officially appointed to take his place.. Alexander, then sent envoys to the Siwah, to the oracle of Ammon, to inquire if Hephaes tion should be worshipped as a god. The oracle refused permission but allowed the sacrifice appropriate to a hero to be offered to Hephaestion. Arrian says ..the death of Hephaestion had proved a great misfortune to Alexander himself, and Alexander, I believe, would have preferred to have gone first himself rather than experience it during his lifetime (7.16.8). Both Arrian and Plutarch site the Royal Journal as their trusted source on the days leading to Alexanders death. On May 29, 323 BC, while holding a banquet for his admiral Nearchus, he was approached by his trusted friend Medius who invited him to a late party. There, they engaged in heavy drinking. On the 30th, he dined with Medius and drank heavily once more. Feeling that a bit feverish, he slept in the bathing house that night to cool off. On the 31st he had to be transported on a litter across the Euphrates to a more pleasant atmosphere. Over the next few days, his condition worsened and was finally brought back to the palace. He was barely able to speak by June 7th. It is believed that he gave his ring to Perdiccas, a senior marshal, to take care of business in theShow MoreRelatedA Report On Alexander The Great Essay1269 Words   |  6 PagesSynopsis I did my this day in history report on Alexander the Great. Alexander the great is known for many things. He was king of Macedonia, a military genius, and the greatest conqueror of all time-to name a few. Alexander was taught by many great minds, perhaps most responsible for his greatness was Aristotle. Alexander was given many hard tasks and tremendous responsibilities as a child and teen, which he carried out with ease. 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