Should All Children be Included in Mainstream Schools?

Should All Children be Included in Mainstream Schools? The following paper shall discuss the educational provisions available for students with profound and complex needs. Such individuals have severe cognitive and neurological dysfunctions, which at times are also accompanied by sensory impairments. Their intellectual level cannot be thoroughly assessed. They form a vulnerable group of persons who are in need of constant assistance, even to perform the most basic needs of feeding and personal hygiene (Arthur-Kelly et. al., 2008). So what should be taught to the members of this group? Is it meaningful to follow the national curriculum? Or should it be modified? What teaching approaches should be used in order to maximise their learning and awareness? Can these approaches be used in ordinary classes? And if so, will it impact negatively on the other non-disabled students? Should they be included in mainstream schools? These are some of the pungent and yet delicate arguments which shall be tackled in the following paragraphs. Section A A1. What is Inclusive Education? Article 26, of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, states that education is a fundamental right of every human being (United Nations, 1948). The right to education is embraced by all since it opens the gates for employment opportunities; enhances the quality of life; gives empowerment to the individual; and promotes equity in society (Peters, 2007). All children should have access to an appropriate education that affords them the opportunity to achieve their personal potential (DfES 2001b:2) Inclusive education refers to the education of special education needs (SEN) students together with their non-disabled peers in mainstream education schools. It values the right of all students to receive quality education with equal opportunities; whereby they can participate in meaningful learning and hence develop their full potential (Peters, 2007:99). Such schools shift their focus from the concept of disability and work to remove barriers of participation for all students (Barton Armstrong, 2001 as cited in Ypinazar Pagliano, 2004). The goal of inclusion is not to erase differences, but to enable all students to belong within an educational community that validates and values their individuality (Stainback et. al., 1994) A primary document which, identified that the way forward to reach education for all is through inclusive education, was the Salamanca Statement in 1994. It declares that every child is diverse in his or her abilities and is therefore unique. It goes on to say that primarily: Every child has a fundamental right to education, and must be given the opportunity to achieve and maintain an acceptable level of learning .. Those with special educational needs must have access to regular schools which should accommodate them within a child-centred pedagogy capable of meeting these needs (UNESCO, 1994, para 2 pp: viii) The philosophy of the Salamanca Statement is underpinned by the social model of disability; whereby learning difficulties are not considered as the problem to educational exclusion, but rather that the general education system needs to be responsive to the needs of all students (Peters, 2007). A2. Historical Overview in the UK Gone are the days when children with physical and intellectual impairment were labelled as being ineducable, idiots, or defective; and hence segregated away into asylums for imbeciles (Pickles, 2004). The situation started to take a better turn with the 1944 Education Act. It stated that disabled children had the right to receive an education tailored according to their needs, however, this had to be done in special settings; segregated away from their families and the rest of the community (Pickles, 2004). The Warnock Report in 1978 coined the term special education needs (SEN); a term which included all those children who had some type of intellectual and/or physical disabilities. The report was a key point in the history of inclusive education. The 1981 Education Act followed it. Both reports introduced a multi-disciplinary approach; whereby representatives from the Education, Health and Social Services sectors, teamed up in order to draw an accurate profile of the child, such that whenever possible the child was included in mainstream classes. The Act also empowered the parents or guardians in deciding on the type of education provision for their children. This legislation brought about a change in the composition of special schools. More children with mild to moderate needs started to attend mainstream schools, leaving their peers with profound and complex needs segregated in special schools (Pickles, 2004). Another two reports followed in 1992, in order to review the objectives of the 1981 Education Act. However, the Green paper, Excellence for All Children (DfEE, 1997) and subsequently the White Paper Program for Action (DfEE, 1998) were decisive, for these brought about the movement of the majority of SEN students into mainstream schools. The papers also addressed the financial resources of schools; and hence saw to the improved standards in all schools. A3. Inclusive Education at the turn of the 21st century The Special Educational Needs and Disability Act in 2001, together with The Special Educational Needs Code of Practice (DfES, 2001) were introduced, and emphasised the importance that local education authorities (LEAs) should conform to the parents choice of schooling provision, except when the school: . is unsuitable to the childs age, ability, aptitude or special educational needs, or the placement would be incompatible with the efficient education of the other children with whom the child would be educated, or with the efficient use of resources (DfES, 2001:107) The SEN Code of practice coined the idea of Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (SENCO), in order to work closely with teachers and parents to the best possible educational outcome for the SEN student and drawing up and Individual Educational Plan (IEP). Removing Barriers to Achievements (DfES, 2004) followed, strengthening inclusive approaches in schools and promoting early intervention programmes. It states that: All teachers should expect to teach children with SEN and all schools should play their part in educating children from their local community, whatever their background or ability (DfES, 2004:5) The policy promotes further use of assessment tools; where at the age of five the child is assessed in order to move on to formal schooling. The assessment is based on the Early Learning Goals. However these 13 goals are not classified enough to include the progress made by those children with profound and complex needs, who may also have additional sensory impairment. Therefore its inclusive nature is very much contested (University of Manchester, 20009). In 2006, the Report of the Teaching and Learning in 2020 Review Group stressed the importance of personalised learning as the way forward. Personalised learning means: Taking a more structured and responsive approach to each childs learning, so that all pupils are able to progress, achieve and participate. (DfES, 2006:41) This approach is important for the progress of all student; especially those with SEN and in particular those with profound and complex needs. Section BB1. Special and Mainstream Schools Should they join forces? The perceived divergence between special and mainstream schools should be reduced such that inclusion becomes a shared concept, and eventually the policies practiced in ordinary schools are adapted as to provide for the collective interests and educational needs of all students (Zelaieta in Armstrong Moore, 2004:33). At the turn of the century, the government has assigned a new role for special schools; whereby these have to be: outward looking centres of excellence working with their mainstream partners and other special schools to support the development of inclusion. (DfES, 2001:23) Mittler (2000, as cited in Rose Howley, 2007) believes that the role of special schools in providing educational services for those students with profound and complex needs has been and still is, of extreme importance. Yet, today, it is widely accepted that pupils are referred to special schools only when mainstream schooling does not cater for their educational needs. Improved cooperation between mainstream schools and special schools, has led to partnerships being established in order to help the transition of students from special schools to ordinary schools (Rose Coles, 2002 as cited in Rose Howley, 2007). Such collaboration is to the advantage of those teachers in mainstream schools who are willing to learn from the expertise of those who work with students with special educational needs (McLeod, 2001 as cited in Rose Howley, 2007). As they work closely together there will be more sharing of ideas and resources, ultimately to the benefit of all the students. The DfES Report of the Special Schools Working Group states that: Special schools have a vast wealth of knowledge, skills and experience which, if harnessed, unlocked and effectively utilised by mainstream schools, can help ensure that inclusion is a success. (DfES 2003b: 6 as cited in Cheminais, 2003:4) As Cheminais puts it, one size will never fit all (2003:5). She believes that as long as there is diversity of needs, special schools cannot be all closed down. She looks at inclusion from a realistic point of view; one which backs the notion that a small minority of students, usually those with severe and complex disabilities, will always necessitate special educational provisions in particular settings. B2. To be included, or not to be? Advocates of inclusion affirm that: the special education system is a key element in the creation and perpetuation of the social oppression of disabled people (Barnes, Mercer Shakespeare 1999:104) Butterfield and Arthur (1995, as cited in Arthur-Kelly et. al., 2008) stressed the importance that students with profound and complex needs should experience meaningful communication experiences both from their peers and teachers. Such communicative interactions could only be achieved in inclusive settings, whereby non-disabled peers could connect with them. An inclusive classroom could set the grounds for meaningful communication, and it is the best social forum for experiences such as turn-taking, requesting and greeting (Arthur-Kelly et. al., 2008:163). In fact, in his study, Foreman et. al., (2004, as cited in Arthur-Kelly et. al., 2008) concluded that inclusive settings further increase peer interaction and engagements for students with PCLD when compared to those students attending special schools. Moreover, Ypinazar and Pagliano (2004) retain that the segregation of SEN students in special schools accentuates their disability identity and hence the stigma of labelling. However, Knight (1999) argues that stigmatisation will not vanish just by placing a student with PCLD in a regular classroom. Peers need to be taught how to accept their difference and move beyond. Inclusion is far more than just about the location of a childs school placement (DfES, 2004 as cited in Runswick-Cole, 2008:174) MacKay (2002, as cited in Armstrong and Moore, 2004) believes that there might be cases where inclusion is not always appropriate; especially in the case of those students with severe and complex learning difficulties. When the mainstream school does not meet the needs of the SEN pupil, it would be highly irresponsible to allow the child attend such a school; such a situation leads to the build up of pressure both on the pupil and teachers alike. John MacBeath, a Professor at the University of Cambridge, recently declared that mainstream classes can be a form of abuse (BBC News, 2006). He affirms that: Physically sitting in a classroom is not inclusion. Children can be excluded by sitting in a classroom that is not meeting their needs. (BBC News, 2006) And in fact Peters (2007) argues that inclusion is more than just the physical presence; it means flexible curriculum for some students; teachers who are willing and prepared to welcome an array of abilities; and a welcoming school community. In 2002, Hanafin and her colleagues concluded that mainstream education does not fulfil the concept of inclusion. They feel that mainstream education is set up on a flawed notion of intelligence and is crippling the learning process of many students (Hanafin, Shevlin Flynn, 2002:410). Giving that the national curriculum is primarily based on linguistic and mathematical skills, those students who are not as proficient in these areas are going to find extremely difficult to cope. Whereas, if the formal curriculum had to give further importance to other subjects which do not require such skills, such as art, music and drama; then all learners would benefit. Moreover, learning and assessment depend on the ability to read and write; those students with severe disabilities, whose abilities are undeveloped if not completely absent, are at a disadvantage. As Camiletti (1996) puts it, SEN students constantly have to rely for learning on their weakest resources (as cited in Hanafin et. al., 2 002:417). Young people with severe/profound intellectual disabilities are often excluded from meaningful participation in mainstream education. As a result they rarely have an opportunity to interact with their non-disabled peers. and remain an isolated and marginalised group. (Shevlin OMoore, 2000, as cited in Gibson et. al., 2005:23) Norwich goes on to say that this issue of student placement and location of provisions is a huge dilemma, especially in the case of students with profound and complex disabilities. If these children are educated in mainstream schools it is very likely that they will not have access to appropriate resources and facilities; if on the other hand they receive their education at special schools it is likely that they will not have meaningful interactions and thus feel excluded by their peers (Norwich 2007a as cited in Norwich 2008). From his study (2007), Norwich concludes that inclusion can have its negative aspects as well. The study revealed that sometimes severely disabled students are made to feel unwelcome as their peers do not accept them as their friends, with the result that they feel excluded in their own class. Moreover their learning process can also be compromised by lack of teacher training and appropriate resources, as well as poor attitudes from the teachers side. B3. Has inclusion gone too far? The extent to which inclusion can be implemented still remains debatable. Baroness Warnock (2005) criticised the government for putting children with special educational needs in one scale. There isnt a single group of children with SEN; every child is an individual with his or her unique learning difficulty, and it is wrong to categorise children with SEN and those without. The term SEN covers a broad spectrum of learning difficulties and needs, which need to be addressed on an individual basis when planning the Individual Educational Programme. The needs of a child with cerebral palsy who is wheelchair bound differ widely from those of a child with Aspergers syndrome. Mercer (1997, as cited in Knight, 1999) argues that students with profound and complex disabilities may not benefit from inclusive classrooms, since their need of highly specialised services, such as physiotherapy or speech therapy will not be catered for in regular classes. The lack of such provisions will negatively affect the learning potential of these students. In fact there are situations where inclusion has a counter effect; that of exclusion, since the needs of the child are not being met while in the regular classroom (Knight, 1999). These views are also reflected by some teachers, who when interviewed said: I dont think it [inclusion] is realistic because a mainstream school doesnt have facilities to meet their needs and the variety of different things they need like physio, speech and medical needs (Simmons Bayliss, 2007:22) Baroness Warnock, who coined the idea of inclusive education more than three decades ago, has now criticised the extent to which inclusion policy has been carried. In her report Special Educational Needs: a new look, she criticises the fact that special schools are closing down with the result that students have no choice but to attend a mainstream schools, which fails to meet their needs. She goes on to say that special schools should still play an important and ongoing role in the lives of those students who need special provisions (House of Commons Education and Skills Committee, 2005/6). Baroness Warnock adds that the concept of inclusion has gone too far. She rejects the idea that for effective inclusion all students need to be under the same roof at all times. She believes that students with special educational needs should be included in the common educational enterprise of learning, wherever they learn best (Warnock, 2005 as cited in Norwich 2008:137). This idea is further reinforced by the Centre for the Study of Inclusive Education (CSIE) who accepts the notion that SEN students can spend part of their time outside the regular classroom, as long as it is for a limited period of time and the student is engaged in meaningful learning sessions. Time spent out of the ordinary classroom for appropriate individual or group work on a part time basis is not segregation . provided it is time limited for a specified purpose. (Thomas Vaughn, 2004:137 as cited in Norwich 2008:137) Moreover, despite the increasing numbers of SEN students attending mainstream schools and actually doing good progress; in 2004, the Office for Standard in Education (OFSTED) reported that schools in England and Wales still lack the required preparation, skills and resources in order to cater effectively for the needs of SEN students (Rix et.al., 2009). In fact statistics show that while in 1974, 1.3 per cent of the school population attended special schools; in 2004 there was just a slight change in the amount, with 1.1 per cent of the school population still attending special schools (DfES 2006 as cited in Runswick-Cole, 2008). This hints that maybe mainstream schools still leave much to be desired! B3. Teacher training The issue of lack of teacher training has been addressed by several scholars. According to Forlin (2001, as cited in Florian, 2008) it is one of the principal barriers to inclusion. Cook and Schirmer tried to identify what is special about special education (2003 as cited in Florian, 2008:204). In their study they explained that the same teaching methods used with SEN students are as effective when used with students who have no learning difficulties. Hence, Lewis and Norwich (2005 as cited in Florian, 2008) proposed the idea that teaching approaches should be designed in a ladder-like spectrum from high to low levels, so as to reach all, from the most gifted to the least; rather than designed according to one particular type of learning disability. Moreover, Florian is confident that most of the teachers, irrespective whether they teach in mainstream or special schools, have enough knowledge and skills to teach all children; all they need to do is to have the courage to put their expertise into practice (Florian, 2008). Florian (2008) looked in depth at the role of teachers as an influential factor in the success of inclusion. Teachers have to be aware that not all students are the same, and therefore it is in their responsibility to ensure that every student is participating in classroom activities. It is very worrying that OFSTED Reports in 2004 showed that teachers are still reluctant to perform the necessary adaptations to the national curriculum to include all learners (as cited in Runswick-Cole, 2008). School observations in mainstream classes conducted by Simmons and Bayliss (2007) confirmed that various teachers struggled to meet the needs of those children with profound and complex disabilities. One teacher clearly stated that: if staff want to learn more, then its up to them personally to join a course off their own back though we dont have time to do that at the moment (Simmons Bayliss, 2007:21) In my opinion it all burns down to attitude; teachers need to focus on the potential of children with PMLD rather than on their impairment (Peters, 2007). A study conducted by Higgins and colleagues (2009) showed how one primary school principal felt about her school: there is a family type environment here. weve got the buddy system up and running. I do something on values at assembly each week. the big children also learn [to be inclusive] from the school staff. thats how we are here (Higgins et. al., 2009:482) This proves that if the teachers attitudes are positive then inclusion is possible. As Hart et. al., (2004) put it: things can change, and change for the better on the basis of what teachers do in the present (Hart et. al., 2004 as cited in Florian, 2008:203) B4. The Role of Parents Parents usually have the arduous task of having to choose the type of educational provision for their child. Those parents who value socialisation tend to choose mainstream schooling (Duhaney Salend 2000, as cited in Flewitt Nindt, 2007); while those who prioritise on academic performance tend to opt for a continuum of services (Palmer et. al., 1998 as cited in Flewitt Nindt, 2007). However, a recent study by Flewitt and Nindt (2007) showed that nowadays the prevalence of parents opting to combine both inclusive and special education is increasing steadily. It seems that in the majority of the cases this combination worked very well for the children; and the parents were happy that their child is enjoying healthy peer interaction in the inclusive classroom while at the same time benefit from adequate resources at the special school. One parent said we had no hesitation about combined placement it just evolved (Flewitt Nind, 2007:434). Yet, some of the parents in the study were concerned about the possibility that this combination would ultimately cause confusion since the child would be attending two different settings. The choice of combining two educational provisions clearly shows that parents are looking for an ideal situation, and this ideal cannot be found in either one of the provisions alone. In their study Flewitt and Nind (2007) found that a common reasoning expressed by parents was: The child would get the best of both worlds. Copying healthy children and mixing with them socially, but also getting pyhsio, and physical support and exercise they needed to improve (Flewitt Nind, 2007:436) This point is further examined by Zelaieta, where she points out that since ordinary schools are not yet equipped to provide for the needs of all students; some SEN students have to attend two different schools, unlike the rest of the population. She proposes that special schools should change their approach, and instead of operating as individual bodies, start working towards an inclusive policy; since, she believes, ultimately these will fade out and mainstream schools [shall] transform themselves into communities for all learners (Zelaieta in Armstrong Moore, 2004:41). Richard a father to a severely disabled child relates his story: At this stage, we were frightfully keen, realising he was different and so, still trying to include him in the local community but he was being sort of parked in a corridor and he was actually being quite literally excluded because he was at the [local] primary school. So we started looking at special. (As cited in Runswick-Cole, 2008:178) It is a pity that the reason that drives parents to opt for special schools is one of a sense of exclusion and uncertainty from regular schools. In his study, Runswick-Cole (2008) observed that some parents had to abandon their original premise of sending their children in mainstream schools, due to attitudinal barriers present in the regular educational settings. Parents looked for a welcoming environment where their children could feel fully included, and for some special schools provided such safe and friendly environment. Conclusion Setting up educational provisions capable of supporting all learners, including those with disabilities is not an easy task. Educators are expected to respond to student diversity, through a range of educational approaches. New teaching approaches, such as the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices, enabled the effective participation and learning of those students who previously were unable to access the curriculum (Rose Howley, 2007). By right every child should have access to mainstream schooling. Choosing whether the child shall attend mainstream or special schools depends on the parents preferences and the childs needs. Students with mild and moderate learning disabilities are increasingly being educated in mainstream schools. Special schools with their supported environment are most often seen as the best option for those with profound and complex needs. There are parents who choose to combine both provisions in order to find the ideal educational setting for their child. James, a boy with cerebral palsy attends a combined setting. He says: If I was born 20 years ago I might not have had the opportunity to go to a mainstream school. I wouldnt have had the friends Ive got now, so things have got a lot better, but we have got a long way to go. (House of Commons Education and Skills Committee, 2006:37) Inclusion develops a greater sense of diversity, and helps society in general to learn that despite such differences all individuals have equal rights (Millar Morton, 2007). . regular schools with this inclusive orientation are the most effective means of combating discriminatory attitudes, creating welcoming communities , building an inclusive society and achieving education for all. (UNESCO, 1994, para 2 pp: ix) ReferencesArmstrong F., Moore M., (2004) Action Research for Inclusive Education: changing places, changing practice, changing minds. RoutledgeFalmer, London Arthur-Kelly M, Foreman P., Bennett D., Pascoe S., (2008) Interaction, Inclusion and students with profound and multiple disabilities: towards an agenda for research and practice. Journal of Research in Special Educational Needs. Vol. 8 issue 3:161-166 Barnes C., Mercer G., Shakespeare T., (1999) Exploring Disability: a sociological introduction. Polity Press, Cambridge Department for Education and Employment (DfEE) (1997) Excellence for All Children: meeting special educational needs. DfEE Publications Department for Education and Employment (DfEE) (1998) Meeting Special Educational Needs: A Programme for Action. DfEE Publications Department for Education and Skills (DfES). (2001). Special Educational needs and Disability Act 2001. DfES Publications Department for Education and Skills (DfES). (2001b) Special Educational Needs Code of Practice. DfES Publications Department for Education and Skills (DfES). (2004b) Removing Barriers to Achievement The Governments Strategy for Special Educational Needs. DfES Publications. Department for Education and Skills (DfES). (2006)Teaching and Learning in 2020 Review. DfES Publications Flewitt R., Nind M., (2007) Parents choosing to combine special and inclusive early years settings: the best of both worlds? European Journal of Special Needs Education, Vol. 22, Issue 4:425-441 Florian L., (2008) Special and inclusive education: future trends. British Journal of Special Education Needs, Vol. 35, Issue 4:202-208 Gibson S., Blandford S., (2005) Managing Special Educational Needs: a practical guide for primary and secondary schools. Sage Publications, London Hanafin J., Shevlin M., Flynn M., (2002) Responding to student diversity: lessons from the margin. Pedagogy, Culture and Society, Vol. 10, Issue 3:409-423 Higgins N., MacArthur J., Kelly B., (2009) Including disabled children at school: is it really simple as a, c, d.? International Journal of Inclusive Education, Vol. 13 Issue 5:471-487 House of Commons Education and Skills Committee (2006) Special Educational Needs, Third Report of Session, Vol. 1, House of Commons, London Knight B. A., (1999) Towards inclusion of students with special educational needs in the regular classroom. Support for Learning Vol. 14 issue 1:3-7 Millar R., Morton M., (2007) Bridging two worlds: special education and curriculum policy. International Journal of Inclusive Education, Vol. 11, Issue 2:163-176 Norwich B., (2008) What future for special schools and inclusion? Conceptual and professional perspectives. British Journal of Special Education, Vol. 35, Issue 3:136-143 Peters S., (2007) Education for All? : A historical analysis of international inclusive education policy and individuals with disability. Journal of Disability Policy Studies, Vol. 18 Issue 2:98-108 Rose R., Howley M., (2007) The Practical Guide to Special Educational Needs in Inclusive Primary Classrooms. Sage Publications, London UK Runswick-Cole K., (2008) Between a rock and a hard place: parents attitudes to the inclusion of children with special educational needs in mainstream and special schools. British Journal of Special Education. Vol. 35 Issue 3:173-180 Simmons B., Bayliss P., (2007) The role of special schools for children with profound and multtple learning difficulties: is segregation always best? British Journal of Special Education. Vol. 34 issue 1:19-24 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) (1994) The Salamanca Statement and framework for action on special needs education. Paris: Author University of Manchester (2009) Profound and Complex Learning Disability: Education Child and Adult Issues, Sections 6 to 9. Unpublished course unit resource for PCLD programmes. Manchester: University of Manchester Warnock, M. (1978) Special Educational Needs. Report of the Committee of Enquiry into the Education of Handicapped Children and Young People. Department of Education and Science. London: Her Majestys Stationery Office Ypinazar V., Pagliano P., (2004) Seeking inclusive education: disrupting boundaries of special and regular education. International Journal of Inclusive Education, Vol. 8 Issue 4:423-442 Zelaieta P., (2004) From confusion to collaboration: can special schools contribute to developing inclusive practices in mainstream schools? In: Armstrong F., Moore M., (Eds) Action Research for inclusive education: changing places, changing practices, changing minds. London, Routledge Falmer.

I never finished anything :: essays research papers

I never finished anything in my life. To date, I have projects that I started and never finished. Nothing in my life had ever struck a cord in my mind so fiercely I was compassionate enough to drive myself to the brink of insanity to accomplish it. I guess I just want fulfillment, but I only feel a void big enough to fit in Crater Lake. I always wanted to play an instrument. In 7th grade I got a chance to. I started playing the Viola. I was instantly great at it. I practiced and practiced my heart out. I even achieved a superior on a solo I performed at a Solo and Ensemble competition. It started to bore me. Then I quit. Do I regret it? Yes, but I can’t go back. It’s just another useless skill I have. In 6th grade, I wanted to be an actress. I studied drama for 3 years in middle school. Many nights I stayed up practicing and racking my brain to the point of a headache trying to memorize line after line. I was in a couple of plays, and even scored a superior in a Junior Thespian Competition for Ensemble acting. I still have the pin I received. I also directed my 8th grade drama class’ play called Break. I haven’t performed since. Again in middle school, I took a dance class. I wanted to become a dancer very much. I learned ballet, hip-hop, jazz, and many other types. I didn’t have much skill in that area. I wasn’t as near as talented as the other girls, and the occasional guy. I quit after a year. I don’t have any regrets in that area, none what so ever. In 8th grade, I was going to participate in the school wide science fair, but that never happened. I had an interesting topic; â€Å"Do your fingerprints tell what hair color you have?† I bought all the supplies, and had the backing of my science teacher Mr. Van Brunt. I never completed it. I wish I did. I took golf lessons about year ago. I didn’t show much promise though, Paid 100$ for them too. Due to recent happenings, I grew into a deep depression at the time. Out of 8 weeks, I only completed 5 or 6. Now I prefer online golf, it’s not as frustrating. This year, I was on the color guard team: the Titanettes.

Goodnight Mr.Tom Review

Review of Goodnight Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian Goodnight Mr. Tom is set in the midst of World War II and the German attacks of London. In the novel many children are sent away from England? s capital onto pacific places for protection. These children are called refugees and they are to stay in the houses of the inhabitants. This is then, the destiny of little William Beech who is sent to Little Wierwold to Tom Oakley, the man who shelters him. The child was being abused by his mother so he is very shy. Therefore, Mr. Oakley helps him confront his problems and Willie drastically changes.He starts to make friends like Zacharias Wrench, or Zach for short. They become best friends and have marvelous moments together. Afterwards, Williams’s mother asks for him to go back to London as she is sick. Beech? s mother really is insane and when they enter the house she says she has a surprise. The surprise was that Mrs. Beech has had a baby. He actually returns to the nightmare he lived before being a refugee, so Mr. Oakley foresees that Willie is passing a terrible time and rescues him from the tiny room in which Mrs.Beech has locked him up. Mr. Tom immediately buys train tickets for Little Wierwold and so, they returned to their home in this little town. Months later, Mrs. Beech commits suicide as a result of her loneliness and Mr. Tom caringly adopts William. The story ends when William? s best friend Zach dies because of a bomb. Will then confronts his friend? s death having both good and bad experiences, which helps him grow physically and mentally. The main characters of this novel are William Beech, Tom Oakley, Zacharias Wrench and Mrs. Beech.William Beech, at the beginning of the story is an apprehensive, emaciated boy who does not have any self-confidence and is very mistrusting. Although he is very different on the inside, Will founds this throughout the book. When Willie starts his life with Mr. Tom, he changes abruptly and transforms into a talkative a nd active little boy. He also discovers he is an excellent artist and makes drawing his favorite hobby. What I really appreciate about this character is that he emerged from being a shy child to a talkative one who loves socializing with others around him.Tom Oakley is also a very important character in this novel. Mr. Tom is at first a grouchy old man who is immerged in the four walls of his house but when Willie arrives to his life he transforms into a social, caring and loving man who supports Will in everything he needs. Tom was very depressed because his wife had died giving birth and soon after his son, William, also died. At first Mr. Oakley took this as a coincidence, assuming William was a common name in London. Although as the months went by he realizes it this is not just a coincidence but something much deeper.Fate had brought them together so that both Tom and Willie could cure the injuries and pains they had been absorbing and keeping inside themselves. Another very im portant and special character is Zacharias Wrench â€Å"Zack for short† as he says in the novel. This character is a boy about the same age as Willie, who is a very swinging boy who likes talking to everybody. As soon he sees someone nice he immediately approaches to the person and starts talking to it as if he knows it for a long time. Zach becomes Willie? s best friend and because of him William lets â€Å"escape the Zach from him†. Goodnight Mr.Tom is definitely an incredible story. I enjoyed it so much that I have read it two times. My favorite moment on the novel is the end because Willie has improved amazingly and says to Mr. Tom who is now his dad: â€Å"Dad, I? ve grown†. I find this particular moment very emotive because despite all the challenges he has faced, he moves on with an amazing courage. I can definitively recommend this book to both adults and children (11 years +) as it makes you reflect a lot and it’s a very deep novel. I would also love to read another book by Michelle Magorian because she is a very good writer.

A Time That I Felt Proud Of Myself

After a few minutes, the ids' swimming instructor started to notice me and my aunt, so she came towards us; she introduced herself and then asked if I had an appointment. I told her that I had an appointment with Ms. Jane. She seemed clueless but sent me to change into my bathing suit while waiting for Ms. Jane to arrive. I did what she said; my aunt and I went to the locker room, and I could still feel my body was so tense. Had to calm myself, so I began to chant in my head, â€Å"You can do it! You need do it for yourself and for your diploma! † When was done changing into my bathing suit, walked by the side of the pool. Eared at the blue water at first and felt like a fool who did not know what do. I was debating in my head if should practice first a little bit or wait for my instructor, but eventually I got into the pool and treaded water, which was my weakest skill. Attempted to do it for one minute but after few seconds could not keep kicking my legs, so I went to hold o n the side of the pool; imagining myself with nothing to hold on to while taking my feet to the bottom really scared me to death. After an hour of trying and waiting, I began feel more anxious and impatient because Ms.Jane was still not there. I felt like giving up, but I had to remind myself that I did not want to do this test at another time; I wanted to get over this fear and not to worry about it anymore. Then, I saw Ms. Sioux coming in my direction, and then she told me that she received a message that Ms. Jane was not going to make it tonight. However, she could substitute for my swimming test. When Ms. Sioux finished teaching the kids' swimming lessons, she came towards me and asked if I was ready for my swimming test; I kept my face calm and said â€Å"yes,† even though pep inside I was shaking.Then she instructed what I had to do in my test; so the first thing was the freestyle stroke which was also the easiest one, in my opinion. Started by pushing off the wall with my legs while facing forward. At first, I was worried when I swam across the pool back and forth, but in the end, Ms. Sioux told me I did a great job doing it. Then, the second thing that had to do was the backstroke; I began to think negatively like what if I might bump my head to the wall? What if I could not swim straight while doing it?There were so many what ifs in my mind, but I pushed them away and took a deep breath. I floated on my back, relaxed my head, and then started to kick my legs backward and forward. I moved alternately both left and right arms. Just like what did in the freestyle stroke, I swam back and forth across the length of the pool. One thing that only bothered me was I got short of breath easily and felt like was drowning when was not inhaling that much. Ms. Sioux told me that the last thing I had to do in my test was one minute treading water, which was my worst nightmare.Panic started to rise up in my chest, but I kept repeating in my head that I had to get over this. Started kicking with my legs and moved both my arms Fontana and backward horizontally. Had a hard time though keeping my head above, and it felt like the water made it hard for me to move also. I only had twenty seconds, but I started to feel tired and was about to sink in, so swam toward the side of the pool. Wanted to cry in frustration because I felt like a failure. Ms. Sioux told me to take my time and did not have to rush because I only had one last chance to do it.I took a deep breath before my last attempt. When she said â€Å"go,† started again, but then I could feel my arms and legs really ache and was having difficulty breathing. I was really about to give up, but then I remembered that I had to get over this or else I was not going to get my diploma. It was my last chance, so I kept repeating in my head, can do it! It is now or never; just ignore the pain! † I tried to calm myself and concentrate on my breathing. Thought positive things until I didn't know my one-minute was over. I could not believe it at first that I really did it, but Ms.Sioux congratulated me and made me write my name on a piece of paper that she would send to my principal. My aunt Jan Nell congratulated me as well, then I began to call my friends and my parents, but one thing that I would never forget was what my mom told me on the phone, â€Å"I'm so proud of you! Could not believe that you finally overcame your fear and accomplished all your graduation requirements. Keep this lesson with you: do not let any fear stop you from getting further in your life and achieving your goal. And even if you did not pass your swimming test†¦ Always remember, I would still be proud of you. †

Liberty vs responsibility

Liberty v/s Responsibility Liberty is the most valued and sought after outcome of any political society. It is a mark of a productive and prosperous society where people enjoy a set of fundamental rights for e. g. :- right to free speech, fair trial, etc. On the other hand social responsibility towards others and oneself unites the community and increases social well-being. Various political philosophers have come up with different ways to prioritize one over the other and some have believed to strike a balance between the two.This leads to an interesting political debate that at what point we draw a line etween liberty and responsibility, where in we have maximum liberty and minimum responsibility. In this paper I assert the libertarian political thought which resolves this debate by striking a fine balance between liberty and responsibility. To support my argument, I apply the ideas of John Locke who was a 17th century classical liberal philosopher (for first reason) and much of li bertarian political thought is inspired from his works. For second reason I apply the ideas of libertarian philosopher Friedrich Hayek.Towards the end I discuss the principles of libertarianism which clearly address this conflict. The first reason is the primary reason why people have desire to loot or plunder and that reason is scarcity. Scarcity is also the main reason why we have to follow a set of rules and act responsibly. If there were no scarcity, then there would be a surplus of goods and resources for everyone and any person's wishes and desires would be fulfilled no matter how unlimited they were and his/her actions would have no consequence on anybody else. But we do live in a world where there is scarcity and that cannot be avoided.So, we have to interact and exchange goods with one another and that involves a set of rules for social conduct. In this context, John Locke believed in the rightful accumulation of property (scarce good) by mixing labor with natural resources (Nozick 175). He didn't believe in accumulation of property via coercion, fraud or theft. As far as the extent of accumulation is concerned he believed that too much property should not be consumed that very little is left for others because that would hinder someone else's right to accumulation of private property.Nozick had given this a term â€Å"Lockean Proviso† (Nozick 175). Applying the Lockean proviso to the conflict between liberty and responsibility, in the presence of carcity, there has to be a certain set of responsibilities that people need to fulfill (mentioned above, Locke called them â€Å"natural laws† (Korab)) mainly including the one where they don't over-consume resources so that less is left for others and at the same time enjoy the liberties granted by the social contract. It's important to note that the responsibilities are optimum that if there are more or less responsibilities there will be less to no liberty.The second reason is that responsib ility is important for liberty to exist is that it encourages good decision making by making people accountable for their actions. Friedrich Hayek in his book â€Å"Constitution of Liberty' said that a free society depends more than any other on people being held responsible for their actions (â€Å"American Spectator†) Applying his idea, in lite it one is awarded tor achieving a set ot goals by the proper use of resources he/she was provided with, then that person should also not be helped and made to suffer the consequences of making a bad decision.In the long term, this suffering will help him make better decisions. Additionally, if the person doesn't suffer the consequences, he/she will develop a propensity for xcessive risk taking which wouldn't be good for the society. Another implication of not taking responsibility is that someone else ends up taking responsibility for it and then that person has a right to curb the latter's freedom. For e. g. :- if the government de cides to bailout a firm which didn't make right decisions, then the government will force the company to take some hard decisions which might go against the interests of the people in that company.So, learning to take responsibility from bad choices increases self-ownership and thereby upholds one's liberty. It also improves one-self hich is always beneficial towards society. Libertarianism has two main principles: the non-aggression principle and the preservation of individual rights and private property (â€Å"Libertarianism†). According to Libertarianism these are the only two responsibilities the person owes to other people in the community. He/she ought not to show aggression and encroach upon any other person's rights in the community.Any responsibility more than that comes at the cost of liberty. Based on the reasons that I gave, Libertarianism strikes a fine balance between liberty and responsibility by not placing laws that achieve a specific outcome unlike a eviatha n government. At the sane times the laws that it places are minimal and only lead to a further expansion of liberty among all. One doesn't want too many laws because that leads to a powerful government where there is no liberty and one also can't manage not having any laws because scarcity and greed will lead to a state of war of â€Å"one against all†.Libertarianism gives a solution that is somewhere between those two extremes. To conclude, libertarianism believes in the importance of individual liberty which can be found in the fundamental rights that people enjoy and duties/responsibilities hich people are obligated to follow. It's important for fundamental duties to exist because without which liberty won't exist. However, responsibility wouldn't have any meaning in the absence of liberty and that it derives its existence from the presence of the latter.

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS - Essay Example Environmental components Environment cycle is another component and refers to a natural process that makes it possible for particular elements to be continuously cycled within the environmental compartments such s the soil, air and water. By the help of various environmental cycles it becomes possible for balance to be provided and enhanced to the environment as a whole. Environment cycles exist in a perfect state of unbalance and it’s only through interference by various elements that a state of instability becomes present thus leading to an endangering of both abiotic and biotic components within its existence (Elizabeth, 2012). A cycle in the environment basically refers to an act of transfer of a particular atom that follows another in a cycle and in the process waste products is eliminated thus leading to environmental stability. There are various environmental cycles that are present in the environment that include: carbon cycle –with carbon being the fourth most abundant element of the gaseous package of the environment. Carbon cycles take place through the ocean, land, atmosphere and the earth’s interior. ... Through decomposition of biological wastes by the involvement of microbes it also becomes possible for nitrogen to be released into the atmosphere. Human activity mainly involves the use of nitrogen as fertilizers (Gardner, 2011). Phosphorous cycle refers to the uptake of phosphorous by organisms. Rocks through the weathering process are that main producers of phosphorous in the environment and is mainly used by humans as fertilizers for their farm lands. Additionally water cycle simply refers to a process that makes it possible for water to be transferred from the atmosphere through condensation and its movement to the earth through precipitation after which it’s transferred to the normal atmosphere using basically the process of evaporation. In the first part of the report I will look at a more detailed understanding of the water cycle and focus on how human activities impact the process of water cycle in the environment (Elizabeth, 2010). Methodology The research will answe r the question of how the environmental process of the water cycle is impacted by various human activities. My research will involve the use of secondary data sources which will be through a review of literature on this topic from books, peer reviewed sources and electronic sources. Discussion Understanding the water cycle The water cycle is also commonly referred to as the hydrologic cycle to describe the transitional stages and processes that relate to the movement of water in the environment. Generally the global water cycle can be understood through a deeper review of nine major processes that form a basis for its movement. As a cycle, the water cycle has no start or conclusion and is basically referred to as an infinite continuous process. Water cycle takes into

Nelson Mandela and Mohandas Gandhi Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Nelson Mandela and Mohandas Gandhi - Essay Example There are a few differences and many similarities between Mohandas Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. The world recognizes the two leaders for their stern fights against colonialism and especially against racism. The world famously recognizes Nelson Mandela for his fight against black domination and white domination. In his trial in 1962, Nelson Mandela finished his defense speech with the claim that he is ready to die for a democratic society. However, even though Gandhi also fought against racism, he seemed to have been advancing the rights of his Indian community. For instance, Gandhi encouraged the Indians in South Africa to defy the ways of the Europeans. The two leaders used different ways in their fights against colonialism. However, the two received similar treatments from the colonialists. They were both jailed on various occasions despite the fact that Gandhi used more peaceful ways than those used by Mandela. For an instance, in 1960s Mandela and his compatriots in the young league of the Africa National Congress (ANC), formed a military wing of the ANG called Umkonto we Siswe. Despite their different ways of actions, the two leaders are world famous for their excellent contributions to the elimination of colonialism. However, the two leaders received two different treatments from their people. Unlike Mandela, who received respect until his death in 2013, Nathuram Godse killed Gandhi on January 30 of 1948 before he became a prime minister (DeLuca). In conclusion, the colonial period generated many leaders. Nelson Mandela and Mohandas Gandhi are two famous leaders of the colonial period. The two leaders used different methods to fight the colonialists.