An investigation into the linguistic features of s Essays - Culture

An investigation into the linguistic features of supermarket advertising and its relationship with social class Introduction and Literature Review This study will consider the grammatical and phonological features of supermarket advertising, using adverts from a range of supermarkets, each with a different target consumer range of a different social class group. Prior to gathering information, I consulted a plethora of literature. I shall begin this analysis by referring to a statement from Sean Brierley; consumers self-identify with products, and buy when they can see a match with their own personality.(2002:124)' This implies that the linguistic features advert should correlate with the linguistics of its target social class in terms of the level of standard of the grammar and the phonology. With this in mind, consider Trudgill's findings in his Norwich Study (2000:97); investigating the use of non-standard third person singular -s variable, he found that the middle- middle class used the standard form 100% of the time, the lower-middle class 98% of the time, the upper-working class 30% of the time, and the lower class just 3% of the time. With these figures established, I decided to investigate whether the correlation between standard grammar variations and social class groups was consistent with super market advertising and social class groups. Specifically, this study will investigate the instances of abbreviations and non-standard omission of prepositions and inflections. Furthermore, analysis of dialectal features will occur, along with consideration for the supermarkets choice of accent for each advert. Methodology In order to gain a list of UK supermarkets ranked in order of perceived social class, I conducted an internet survey of 70 people, asking them to rank 5 supermarkets in relation to the class of the customer likely to buy from them. In descending order, beginning with the highest social class, the scale read; Marks and Spencers, Waitrose, Morrisons, ALDI and LIDL. Considering the sample size, the results are fairly representative. However, the high subjectivity of the questionnaire must be considered, and the fact that the results are entirely societal perception, and are not factual has to be taken into account. Following this, I set about acquiring my information for analysis. I decided to choose four adverts per supermarket, one from each of the past four years; this allows scope to measure change in the linguistic features used by each supermarket, to display possible changes in the target social groups. I then proceeded to transcribe the adverts, and annotate them, looking specifically for the features of discourse mentioned in the introduction to this analysis. I also noted down the accent of the speaker in each advert, and also noted any interesting phonological features present. With regards to the presentation of the data, ideally, the graphs would represent an average of each lingu istic element, as opposed to the combined total. However, for the WC supermarkets, there are limited resources available, and an average taken from such a small sample would not be representative. Results and analysis Non-standard utterances Non-standard utterances per supermarket (all four adverts combined) In this instance, the term non-standard utterances' acts as a blanket term for any example of abbreviation, omission of phoneme, or regional dialectology. From the graph above, there is a clear relationship between the class of supermarket, and the occurrence of non-standard utterances; in the two supermarkets that are deemed to be of the highest two classes, there are no examples of non-standard grammar or phonology. The frequency of non-standard grammar falls as the social class rises, starting with LIDL - the supermarket considered to be of the lowest social class. The types of non-standard grammar range from the elision of concrete nouns and the omissio n of' in cuppa tea,' to the use of regional dialectology from Scotland, with give it ALDI' translating to go to ALDI. This investigation will now consider possible reasons for this correlation. Myers (2000:203) talks of the importance of some sellers to create ordinariness' in advertising. It is important to conjure a sense of everyday conversation' within an advert, in order for a company to identify with a target consumer group. With reference to Myers work, and its relationship to this investigation, the non-standard utterances may exist to lower the register of the advert, thus rendering

Maud Martha essays

Maud Martha essays Gwendolyn Brooks was a black poet from Kansas who wrote in the early twentieth century. She was the first black woman to receive the Pulitzer Prize. Her writings deal mostly with the black experience growing up in inner Chicago. This is the case with one of her more famous works, Maud Martha. Maud Martha is a story that illustrates the many issues that a young black girl faces while growing up in a white, male driven society. One aspect of Martha that is strongly emphasized on the book is her low self-image and lack of self-esteem. Martha feels that she is inferior for several reasons, but it is mainly the social pressures that she faces and her own blackness that contribute to these feelings of inferiority. It is through these depictions that we are able to identify with the feelings of the writer. Gwendolyn Brooks wrote an autobiography that reveals many her attitudes, tendencies and criticisms. Martha, in Brooks stories has a low self-esteem. This lack of self is direc tly related to her being black. Brooks experiences growing up are the key influence in the writing of Maud Martha Marthas self-image is very low because she feels that being black will not get her anywhere in society. She feels as though she is backed into a corner when it comes to the problems that the black culture faces from day to day. Martha is a very dark shade of black. She thinks that because she is this shade she is not a beautiful as her friends who are a lighter shade of black or obviously, white. These issues exist and are perpetuated by her family, friends and even her boyfriend. Brooks also discusses similar issues in her autobiography. She talks about skin color and how people are attracted to bright people. By bright she is not referring to their intelligence or wit, but the color of their skin. She also says that in order to be respected as a black person you have to be a light sha ...

Materials Engineering Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Materials Engineering - Assignment Example The bondage between the molecules is broken. In this region, the material can regain its original shape after the removal of the loading or rather the stress. At this juncture, the material obeys Hooke’s law and the stress and strain relate proportionally, and the constant of proportionality is the modulus of elasticity. The structure of the particles is not altered which explains the reason the material regains it original shape after the removal of the stress. It is the region just after the elastic limit. It is characterized by the graph flattening indicating destroyed proportionality between the stress and strain. Plastic deformations creep in, and the material loses the ability to regain fully its shape and size after the stress has been released. It takes place due to rearrangement of the molecular or atomic structure that allows for the new shape and size. Found just after the yielding region. It is characterized by a slight rise of the curve to the ultimate stress point. The behavior is due to the strength of the deformed atoms or molecules having a slight ability to withstand more stress up to the point beyond which complete deformation takes place. The rise of the curve in this region is what is termed as strain hardening. It is the region beyond the ultimate stress point. In this region, a further increase of the stress leads to a reduction of the cross section of the material only in some parts and not the entire material. The constrictions formed are what is referred to as necking. It is the continuous reduction of the cross section area that leads to the breakage and thus separation of the material. Metallic materials are ductile thus has the ability to deform plastically up to some extent. On the graph, it is represented by the region beyond the proportional limit where the elastic limit has been exceeded. Force

Assignment 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Assignment 3 - Essay Example As a result there was some invention like the punch card computers which were designed to help solve the crisis (Smith, 1926). 2400 BC: The first known calculator known as Abacus was invented by the Babylonians to solve mathematics problems. This was the first step in developing computers and dealing with positional notations. 500 BC: During this period there was use of Zero mathematics where the formulated grammar of Sanskrit was highly systematized. As a result the computing power was developed and was similar to the Turing machine. This was simply a precursor to the modern computing (Smith, 1926). 60 BC: Sequence control was invented by Heron of Alexandria where the machine was set running by an operator and then responds to a series of instructions in a very unique manner. This was actually the first program that contributed towards the establishment of robotics. 850 B.C: Cryptography was developed by Al-Kindi who was an Arab mathematician. This led to the development of the frequency analysis where by letters could be easily analyzed and the encryption ciphers broken with a lot of easy (Turner, 2006). 1206 BC: There was invention of automata by Al-Jazari an Arabian Engineer, which was a foundation for the design of a programmable humanoid shaped mannequin. Eventually this lead to a castle clock invention also known as the earliest analog programmable computer. 1400 BC: During this time an analog instrument of the computer was invented by Jamshid al –Kashi. This was used in determining the time of the day at which the conjunctions of the planet would occur. It was also used in for linear interpolation purposes (Black 2001). 1492 BC: A mechanical calculator with the ability of adding and subtracting was developed. This was of great importance to the art field particularly when Leonardo da Vinci really contributed towards

Strategic human resource management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Strategic human resource management - Essay Example The increased efficiency of any organization may be due to ideal way of utilizing the human resources which is accelerated by the successful implementation of strategic human resource management. Only those organizations who adopt the flexible management strategies survive in the present day global market as the element of competition creeps in at a faster rate day by day (Schuler, 1992). This necessitates the application of key strategies based on the changes in the tastes of the customers and market demand. The strategic human resource management plays vital role in supplying the necessary information to the managers related to the production of best quality produce so that the organization survives in the global market. In other words, the formulation of strategic human resource management is important to come up with innovative products that compete well with other market players. ‘Several emerging issues that strategic human resource management systems must include are tec hnological fluidity, workforce demographic changes and shifting worker values’ (Lepak and Shaw, 2008). One should keep in mind that various elements or indicators of strategic human resource management like structure, team work, style, dynamic leadership, employee organization commitment and creativity help in enhancing the organizational efficiency. Ideal structure of the organization facilitates efficient flow of resources and hence it results in increasing the overall efficiency of the organization (Kenneth et al., 2006). Employee organization commitment also plays crucial role in enhancing the organizational efficiency by reducing the absenteeism and improving the employee adaptability to the organizational changes (Su et al., 2009). Dynamic leadership is another key indicator that aids in overall monitoring and guidance of the key operations of any organization. Similarly, the team work plays vital role in production of quality product by the integration

Decision Making in a Nursing Ethical Dilemma

Decision Making in a Nursing Ethical Dilemma Introduction Decision making in an ethical dilemma circumstances could be difficult at time as one is prone to use similar past experience as a yardstick to analyse the circumstances. McGhee and Perrin (2008), define ethical dilemma as a situation that gives rise to conflicting moral claims resulting in disagreements about choices of action. Therefore using a framework as a tool to guide one through the ethical dilemma would aid in arriving a client-centred decision. This paper aims to look into Ranjit’s decision to die in his own home instead in a hospital as requested by his children using the model for ethical decision making by Kerridge, Lowe and McPhee (2005). Clearly state the problem Ranjit, a 77 year old man diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease lost his motor functions. He prefers to be cared and die at home however his children are concerned about not being able to meet his needs as they do not possess with necessary skills to handle his disease if he deteriorate. Ethical Problem Ranjit may have Parkinson’s disease however it does not limit his freedom to make his own decision. Therefore the ethical issue is raised in contradiction of his autonomy. Social Problem No one is able to care for Ranjit when his condition required more attention, therefore a caregiver is required if Ranjit wish is passed through. Legal Problem Ranjit is of a legal age in the eye of the law; he is capable to make sound decision for himself. His diagnosis may lead others to make baseless assumption about his capability to make a decision. Get the facts Parkinson’s disease is defined as chronic neurodegenerative disorder, which is related to loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Symptoms such as tremor, brandykinesia and rigidity present in early stage and later stage non-motor features including autonomic dysfunction, falls, and sleep disturbances as loss in non-dopaminergic areas (Ministry of Health, 2007). According to Hoehn and Yahr (1967), Parkinson is classified into five stages, from stage one tremor over one limb to stage five confinements to bed. The prevalence rate in Singapore was found to be 0.3% for the population aged 50 and above (MOH, 2007). People with Parkinson do not only experience distress with their own movement, but the increasing motor deficit also diminishes their ability to express, communicate and interact with others (Doyle Lyons, Tickle-Degnen, Henry, Cohn, 2004). Disability is seen more prominent as the disease progresses, caregiver may experience strain, burnout or financial bur dened (Tan 2013). Therefore communication is critical for patient and caregiver to discuss openly about the disease, understanding their frustrations will help them to live with the disease (Chiong-Rivero et al., 2011). Although with pharmacotherapy can improve the quality of life ancillary approach in managing disease cannot be overlooked. Utilisation of rehabilitation services for Parkinson patients will go a long way to keep them active within the community to prevent isolation and depression. Occupational therapy can be involved in teaching client and care givers in coping with activities of daily living. Physiotherapist can be involved in gait training and strengthening muscles to prevent falls. Caregivers can consider sending Ranjit to various alternative services such as Agency Integrated Care (AIC), day care centre or respite care. Consider the four principles Autonomy Autonomy is defined as the freedom and ability to exercise one’s choice and the ability to decide for oneself. The principle in autonomy is to respect a person’s decision, privacy and confidentiality and receive full disclosure (Staunton and Chiarella, 2008, p. 31; Butt and Rich, 2008, p. 42). His children are against Ranjit decision to be cared and die at home, despite his disease his right to choose should not be stripped off. As healthcare provider it is important to respect and promote client’s autonomy (Singapore Nursing Board (SNB) Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, 1999, p.4). Beneficence Beneficence is described as taking action to help other; the desire to do good (Butt and Rich, 2008). The nurse would advocate client’s interest accordance to SNB Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (1999, p.8) value statement 7, to promote client’s best interest by ensuring desires are acknowledge and considered by the healthcare team. The team shall consider Ranjit’s decision to be cared at home as it is deemed good for him. Non- Maleficence Non- maleficence is defined as â€Å"above all, do no harm’ (Staunton and Chiarella, 2008). (ANMC) Code of Professional Conduct (2008) conduct statement 4 stated nurses to ensure the safety and quality of care are not compromised. If Ranjit’s decision was granted, a caregiver should be nominated to prevent harm at home such as fall. Justice Justice is based on the concept of fairness (Hendrick, 2000, p. 121). This suggests that one shall be treated fairly and be given equal chance to make decision. Statement 2.3 under Australian Nursing Midwifery Council (ANMC) National Competency Standards for Registered nurses (2006), to demonstrate respect for client’s legal right in relation to health care. Identify Ethical Conflicts Beneficence versus Autonomy The first conflict to be addressed her is whether Ranjit should be cared at home or die in hospital. No doubt hospital is well equipped with equipment and healthcare team to provide a care plan for him till he die but however Ranjit has the right to refuse admission, treatment or care from the hospital. Therefore his primary treating doctor should provide a full disclosure on the disease process, risk and potential problems to allow him to make an autonomous choice. Beneficence versus Non Maleficence The second conflict here is his children perceived hospital is the best place for him as they do not have the necessary skills to look after him. However what seem to be best may not be as it place Ranjit at risk for acquiring infection or develop depression to his wish rebuked. Non Maleficence ethical principle here is involved if Ranjit’s decision is approved by his children. Due to the lack of care at home, he may be faced with potential issues such as falls, pressure sores and chest infection. Consider the law Consent Mr Ranjit has the mental capacity to take consent as evidenced by his active commitments with various activities. His consent may be deemed valid if he is able to understand and retain information and communicate his decision as stated in Mental Capacity Act (2008). Right to refuse treatment As the children wanted him to be institutionalised, Ranjit can refuse admission to a hospital or a nursing home. Advance directives An advance medical directive (AMD) an Act to provide for, and give legal effect to, advance directives to medical practitioners against artificial prolongation of the dying process and for matters connected therewith (Advance Medical Directive Act, 1996). Mr Ranjit may consider AMD to safeguard his wishes, case he became unconscious or terminally ill. Making the ethical decision Ranjit’s decision to be cared at home should be granted as he is competent to make his own decision and what is deem best for his interest. Family conference involving patient’s treating doctor, patient and his family may be helpful in this circumstance to hear from individual’s perspective to reach a conclusion that may benefit all. However the ultimate decision is still on Ranjit thus his children should respect his decision and look for alternative revenue to provide care for their father. Document the decision In accordance to statement 6.3 of ANMC National Competency Standards for the Registered Nurse (2006), Documentation must be written clearly and concise to provide accurate assessments. Therefore it is important for nurses and doctors to document all discussion shared as evidence to prevent unnecessary miscommunication. Evaluate the decision Ranjit’s care plan will need to be evaluated when there is a change in his condition or needs (ANMC National Competency Standards for the Registered Nurse statement 8.2, 2006). As Ranjit is able to make an autonomous decision to be cared at home, his children can employ a caregiver to be home to look after the father, the care plan will need to be evaluated every three months to better support and meet his needs.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in In Country by Bobbi Ann Mason Essay

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in "In Country" by Bobbi Ann Mason Many Vietnam veterans suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder. Typically, such individuals have flashbacks, dreams, and are constantly haunted by their war memories. The mental stress can lead to further complications, even physically injuring or paralyzing the human body. The book In Country by Bobbi Ann Mason portrays a prime example of such a victim. The difference? The subject is a seventeen-year-old girl in the early nineteen-eighties who never saw the war. Posttraumatic stress disorder affects an estimated 30.9% of male Vietnam veterans and 26.9% of female Vietnam veterans, according to a survey by the National Center for PTSD (National Center for PTSD Online). Of these, most have marital and social problems, high arrest rates, alcoholic dependencies, and in many cases drug addictions. These issues are brought on by the terrors, stress, and moral headaches caused by the acts, such as killing, that they were ordered to commit during their service. While others are only mildly affected and manage to lead semi normal lives, others are rendered useless, unable to hold jobs, start families, or participate as active members of society as they are constantly obsessing, whether consciously or not, about the war. In Mason’s book, there are prime examples of each. Emmett, the thirty something uncle of Sam, the main character, is the second type of victim. After moving back home to Hopewell after the war, he spent a few years causing mischief with his wild hippy friends. Eventually, they left, and with the ruckus, amusement, and gossip caused by their stunts, Emmett’s spirit also died, pushing him into an ever deepening low. He is unab... ...r, Department of Veteran Affairs. Updated 1 Sept. 2003. Accessed 12 April 2004. http://www.ncptsd.org/facts/general/fs_epidemioloical.html?printable=yes Krasteva, Yonka. â€Å"The South and the West in Bobbie Ann Mason’s In Country.† Rev. of In Country by Bobbie Ann Mason. Southern Literary Journal Spring 1994:26:2:77. Mason, Bobbie Ann. In Country. New York: Harper Collins 1985. Morrissey, Thomas J. â€Å"Mason’s In Country.† Rev. of In Country, by Bobbie Ann Mason. Explicator Fall 1991:50:62. O’Brien, Timothy D. â€Å"Oppositions in In Country.† Rev. of In Country by Bobbie Ann Mason. Critique: Winter 2000:47:2:175. Stewart, Matthew C. â€Å"Realism, Verisimilitude, and the Depiction of the Vietnam Veterans in In Country. Rev. of In Country, by Bobbie Ann Mason. Fourteen Landing Zones: Approaches to Vietnam War Literature. Ed. Jason, Philip K. p. 166