Monday, December 31, 2012

The Best Nursing Schools

The best nursing schools offer a wide range of learning opportunities for students.


According to the American Associations of College and Nursing, the demand for nurses remains high as the medical needs of the aging baby boomer population increases. Selecting a good nursing program at a college, university or technical school can prepare you for lucrative opportunities in the health care industry. With more than 900 university and college programs, the best nursing schools are recognized by notable industry ranking organizations such as U.S. News & World Report and the National Institutes of Health. The range of classes offered and the quality of learning opportunities are among the key factors to consider when selecting a school.


The School of Nursing at the University of Washington


The University of Washington's School of Nursing offers bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing as well as doctorate degrees. The school has been ranked as the best nursing school in the country by U.S. News & World Report for 17 years in a row from 1993 to 2010. The undergraduate programs train students to become RNs, while the graduate programs focus on nursing research and theory application. Partnerships with the UW Medical Center and Harborview Medical Center offer learning opportunities for students.


University of Pennsylvania


The School of Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania provides an extensive offering of undergraduate and graduate nursing degree programs, including a bachelor of science in nursing and 18 different master's degree programs. The program is ranked first by the NIH with more than $10 million received for research funding. It is ranked third by U.S. News & World Report. A doctorate program in nursing is also available. Simulated nursing labs with medical mannequins and innovative medical technology provide students with hands-on learning opportunities.


South University Nursing School


South University's College of Nursing possesses the highest level of accreditation a nursing program can receive for its traditional and online baccalaureate and master's degree programs by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). CCNE is recognized at the nation's top nursing school review body.The Nursing School at South University offers online and on campus nursing programs to obtain a bachelor's or master's degrees. The program's coursework includes studies in palliative care, gerontological nursing and complementary and alternative nursing methods. Upon completion, students can work in health care settings including acute care hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, home health, community-based clinics and school health clinics.


Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing


Johns Hopkins is considered one of the most competitive medical schools for students who want to become nurses and doctors. It has been ranked second in 2007 by the U.S.News & World Report for Community Health Nursing Programs and also ranked fourth among the top nursing doctorate programs. The school has also been recognized by the National Institutes of Health for its nursing research program. The nursing school offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing with opportunities to receive hands on training at Johns Hopkins University medical school.


University of Michigan Nursing School


The University of Michigan Nursing School is recognized internationally as a leading research school with the National Institutes of Health as its primary research sponsor. The school is also designated as a World Health Organization (WHO) collaborating center. In 2007, U.S. News & World Report ranked the school's nursing program fifth in the nation.

Tags: News World, News World Report, World Report, learning opportunities, degree programs

Friday, December 28, 2012

Reasons For Debt Forgiveness

Debt forgiveness is the cancellation of your legal debt. You are not legally responsible for debt that has been forgiven by your creditor, and the creditor cannot take action against you for non-payment. Although a variety of situations can lead to debt forgiveness, the decision is primarily influenced by your creditor's policies.


Financial Hardship


Some creditors are willing to negotiate with you when you are experiencing financial hardship, such as a serious medical illness suffered by you or a family member, or loss of income. In such circumstances, creditors will occasionally accept partial settlement amounts or reduce your debt balance, forgiving the rest. The IRS, for example, allows taxpayers who are experiencing financial difficulty to make an offer in compromise. An offer in compromise is an offer by the taxpayer to pay an amount less than the total due, with the IRS waiving the rest of the balance.


Loss of Employment


The loss of your job is a factor that can be taken into consideration by some of your creditors, even if you have savings in the bank or other assets. Credit card companies sometimes offer specific settlement and debt forgiveness programs for account holders who become unemployed. Federal and state creditors, including student loan programs and child support agencies, can make arrangements for persons who lose their jobs through no faults of their own.








Lender Arrangement


Two types of arrangements can be made with mortgage lenders that result in debt forgiveness. The balance on a mortgage you cannot pay is forgiven through a successful short sale. A short sale is when you sell your home for a smaller amount than what you owe the lender. The lender, in turn, forgives the rest of the debt. A deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, when you sign ownership of the home back to the lender, frees you from liability for the balance of the mortgage.








Permanent Disability or Death


Permanent disability or death results in the forgiveness of some debts. Federal student loans are forgiven in full if you die or become permanently and completely disabled after you received the money. Some or all of your credit card debt may be forgiven in the event of your death or total disability, depending on creditor policies and the enforceability of your debt.

Tags: balance mortgage, compromise offer, creditor policies, debt forgiveness, experiencing financial

Learn A Foreign Language With Pronunciation For Free







With many free options online and in the community, you can learn a foreign language.


Speaking a foreign language can improve your employment outlook, your global understanding and even your personal life. Richard Riley, the U.S. Secretary of Education under President Bill Clinton, said, "We have strong evidence today that studying a foreign language has a ripple effect, helping to improve student performance in other subjects." Learning a language can be hard at first, particularly for adult students. Omniglot, an online guide to languages, suggests this: "Before you start trying to speak a foreign language, spend some time tuning your ears to its sounds and rhythms."








Instructions


1. Visit your local public library or a university library if you have access to one. Most stock foreign language audio tapes or CDs like Rosetta Stone, a comprehensive language learning software program with audio, and Pimsleur, an audio-only foreign language program.


2. Log onto The Foreign Service Institute and the BBC websites. Both offer interactive audio lessons for free. Visit YouTube to find video lessons of the language you wish to learn. Oftentimes you will find children's shows or tutorials that can help with proper pronunciation.


3. Complete the audio exercises aloud in order to learn the proper pronunciation. Listen in an environment that will not disturb others, such as at home.


4. Record yourself completing the audio exercises. Check your pronunciation against the computer program to identify any mistakes.


5. Watch news or television programs in the foreign language of your choice in order to create an immersion environment. Spanish channels are frequently available with cable or satellite television packages; languages from Basque to Urdu can be accessed as streaming video online. For example, watch Al-Jazeera to enhance your learning of Arabic.


6. Volunteer at an ethnic community center or retirement home in order to practice speaking and hearing the language you're learning.

Tags: foreign language, audio exercises, foreign language, language learning, proper pronunciation

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Prepare For Classes Online

Taking a class online presents considerable advantages. The student may be able to register for classes that are not available at brick-and-mortar schools, may attend classes when it is convenient and, in some cases, pay a reduced tuition. Many of the steps students must take when preparing for an online class are similar to those they take when starting a class at a physical location. However, due to the nature of the class, there is more emphasis on technical preparation.


Instructions


1. Set up a workspace for your class. It would be best to choose a room in your home where you will not be interrupted.


2. Purchase and download any software you may need to participate in the class. You may need additional utilities to view certain file types.


3. Find out what books and supplies you need for your class. According to the authors of "Online Education For Dummies," most schools link to virtual bookstores, which create a list of the books and supplies you need for your class. It could take a week or more to receive your order, so consider purchasing what you need ahead of time.


4. Check that your computer meets the technical requirements of the class. Log in to your school's website for information, or contact the technical department to find out whether your computer, operating system and Internet browser will be compatible with the course. You may also need to adjust the resolution of your computer screen.


5. Test your login information. Your school will provide you with a username and password to log in to the class website.


6. Take a virtual tour or read through available tutorials. Most schools provide these tools to show students use the online classroom environment. Use these tools ahead of time, then practice using the site. You may not have access to the class until it actually begins, but you can click on accessible links and find out what modules and pages are available to you.


7. Read the class syllabus ahead of time. This will show you what to expect during the class, such as the topics to be covered and the schedule for assignments, quizzes and exams.


8. Learn contact the people you may need to speak to during the course. These people will include your professor and the technical department in case of any problems with the school's software and your computer.


9. Check your virus protection. This basic step is required for your protection and that of others in your online class. An up-to-date antivirus program ensures that you will not miss classes due to a virus attack.

Tags: your computer, ahead time, your class, books supplies, books supplies need

Schools To Be A Dietician

Dietitians advise clients on healthy eating habits.








Becoming a dietitian usually requires the completion of either a bachelor's or master's degree in dietetics or nutrition. Dietitians are nutrition professionals who specialize in advising clients with special dietary needs by helping them put together specific dietary plans that meet their health and wellness needs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top-paid dietitians nationwide made more than$74,690 per year as of May 2009.








Iowa State University


Iowa State University offers both bachelor's and master's degrees in dietetics. The school offers a didactic program in dietetics, which means that the program is designed in such a way that it has a built-in internship program that meets the requirements of the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association. The school also offers a joint diet and exercise bachelor's and master's degree. In addition to these programs, Iowa State offers a Master of Family and Consumer Sciences degree in dietetics that can be obtained through online study.


Texas Tech University


Texas Tech University also offers aspiring dietitians the opportunity to pursue an internship through its program. The internship is an 11-month program that provides students with the opportunity to gain 1,248 hours of supervised experience in preparation for the registered dietitian certification. At the master's degree level, students can pursue a Master of Science in Nutrition Science. The degree is offered with both a thesis and non-thesis option. All students take a Introduction to Nutritional Sciences Research course and have considerable leeway in choosing the remainder of their coursework.


Eastern Michigan University


Eastern Michigan University offers students the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Dietetics. Both degree program are offered both online and through on-campus study. Both programs also are offered with the option to pursue an internship for the purpose of meeting the necessary requirements to gain the registered dietitian credential. The Master of Science degree is offered without the internship as well. This option is for dietitians and nutritionists who wish to enhance their current credentials.


University of Wisconsin-Stout


The University of Wisconsin-Stout offers an opportunity for students to study dietetics at the undergraduate level. The school's Bachelor of Science in Dietetics degree requires a 320-hour internship program in preparation for a dietetics career. The degree program requires the completion of 124 to 125 credit hours, depending upon which electives the student decides to pursue. Of these, 79 credit hours are divided up among different areas of study within the dietetics program: physical and biological science; medical nutrition therapy and nutrition; food and food science; nutrition education and counseling; food service administratio; and several other major areas of study.

Tags: bachelor master, Iowa State, master degree, Master Science, also offers, areas study

Why Consolidate Private Student Loans At A Fixed Rate

Student loan payments can be lowered if the borrower consolidates.








Student loans can be a heavy burden for those who have recently graduated and still have low incomes. Some students have taken out loans from a variety of sources in order to make it through college--and these loans virtually always come with interest rates, some of which can be cripplingly high. Loan consolidation at a fixed rate can help combine these loans and save on payments.


Basics


Consolidation is the practice of combining different loans into one loan. This does not mean borrowers can join student loans together. Instead, they take out a new loan, such as a second mortgage, and pay off the student loans with this new loan. Various lenders, including many which offer student loans, offer these consolidation loans to help students who have too many types of loans.


Advantages


Loans can be either adjustable or fixed. A fixed rate loan is desirable because its monthly payments will never change, while an adjustable rate will go up throughout the life of the loan, increasing the payment amount. With a steady rate, borrowers can easily compute how much their monthly payments will be. The new rate may be a better deal than the collective rates and amounts of the student loans, saving the borrower money.


Private Vs. Federal








Private loans typically have higher interest rates than federal student loans. This actually makes private loans easier to consolidate, since there is more of a chance that the new loan will have a lower rate and lower payments.


Other Benefits


Consolidation also combines all student loan payments to one payment. This simplification can be very beneficial to borrowers, who may be in a better position to make only one payment instead of several. It also helps new borrowers arrange their finances and budget out money more easily, leading to consistent, dependable payments that build up good credit. This works best with fixed-rate loans, which are unchanging and do not lead to unpleasant surprises.


Considerations


Consolidation does come with a price. Creating a new loan can come with hefty origination fees. Also, a new loan comes with a new term, which means it will usually last longer than the student loans left as they are, even if it does lower monthly payments. Fixed rate loans depend on market conditions, and the rates offered for such loans may at times be too high to make consolidation worthwhile.

Tags: come with, monthly payments, student loans, fixed rate, interest rates, loan payments, monthly payments will

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

What Are The School Projects With Coal

Coal is one of the Earth's most sought after natural resources. Used for fuel and energy uses, coal has been mined worldwide for centuries. Teacher can use this carbon-based rock in various school projects. From clean fuel technology to learning the history of this fossil fuel, coal is a valuable resource to be be highlighted in science class.


Coal Categorized


Discuss the difference between rocks and minerals, including the metamorphic rock, coal. Teach student how coal is formed, the different types of coal and where to find coal. Students will pass a piece of anthracite coal around the room and without the teacher identifying the rock, ask them to guess if it's mineral or a rock, and what type. Explain the types of coal and how they are formed. A blackboard drawing will highlight the four types of coal: bituminous, lignite, anthracite and peat. Have students play a trivia contest to name the eight highest-producing coal countries and the 37 states which produce coal.


Hunting for Fossil Fuel








Create a rock pile by placing rocks on a tarp. Or, find a rock bed as part of a field trip. Among the non-descript rocks, include some rocks with coal deposits. Give students four empty plastic cups and have them search for rocks that may have coal deposits in four 30-second sessions. Have the students count the rocks, record their findings and deposit them in a numbered cup. After the fourth search, have students count the cups of rocks and make a bar graph to show the number of rocks found with coal deposits on them. The graph may determine there are more rocks found deeper below the surface with coal deposits than surface rocks.


Basic Project








Have students identify the four types of coal based on how the rock has been affected by pressure and heat. The amount of carbon in a piece of coal determines the amount of energy that can be created from it. Have students display their findings as a poster with graphs and coal photos. The display can be the main point of the students' project.


.


Static Electricity


Coal pollution can be captured using static electricity. When coal burns at a power plant, the pollution, called soot, is produced. Static electricity draws the soot before it goes into the atmosphere. The school project will require a mixture of sugar, salt and pepper, with the pepper representing the soot. Students use a small plate, piece of wool and plastic comb. Have students take the comb and brush the wool to give it an electric charge. Students will place the sugar, pepper and salt separately on the plate. The comb should be moved closer to the particles to draw them off the plate. Students record their findings and determine if the pepper, representing the soot, could be attracted to the comb using static electricity and creating cleaner air.

Tags: coal deposits, Have students, types coal, their findings, with coal deposits, four types

Questions For Plastic Surgeons

Take the time to find the best surgeon.


Choosing to have plastic surgery is a big decision. Like any major purchase, it is important to "shop around." Researching and taking the time to find the best doctor will greatly increase the chances that you do not leave the operating table with a botched surgery. Respectfully ask pointed questions to several doctors to help you narrow down your options.


Certification


It is important to ask the doctor if she is board-certified. The most respected organization granting certification in the field is the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Knowing that the doctor is certified by this board provides you with assurances that she has fulfilled approved training in and demonstrated a deep knowledge of plastic surgery. Visit the American Board of Plastic Surgery's website to verify certification.


Record


Ask the doctor if he has ever been disciplined by the board or by the state. You do not want a doctor with a track record of illegal, unethical or negligent acts. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons' (ASPS) website is another place to research a doctor's history and qualifications.


Familiarity with Procedure


Find out how many times the doctor has performed the particular procedure you are electing to have. You do not want your plastic surgery to be new to the doctor. Also ask how often he has had patients return requesting an amendment to the original procedure. You can also ask if there are any former patients who have had the same procedure who would be willing to speak with you about their experience.


Location


If the surgery is not being done in a hospital, make sure the facility is licensed by the state and is certified by Medicare. This will ensure that the facility meets health and safety protocols. Also, if the surgery is not being done in a hospital, ask if the doctor is affiliated with any hospitals and has been granted permission by those hospitals to conduct plastic surgery. Hospitals have strict standards for their doctors and this will further ensure the doctor's record and qualifications. Keep in mind that a hospital has more resources if you have medical conditions that add risk to the procedure.


Procedural Details








Find out how the procedure is done and what risks are involved. Ask to see before and after photos of other people who have had the procedure. Risks vary depending on the procedure and on the patient and can include anything from major blood loss to infection. Find out how much bruising will happen and for how long. You will also want to know what form of anesthesia is used and what risks are involved with that.


Suitability for Surgery








Ask the doctor to give you an honest assessment of your suitability to have the procedure. You do not want a doctor who seems like she is purely driven by making a buck, but rather one who has your best interests in mind. Ask her if your expected outcome is realistic or not.


Checkups


It is essential to not just know about the procedure, but to know what happens after. Avoid any doctors who do not schedule post-surgery checkups. They should see you the next day as well as periodically over the next three months, if not longer.

Tags: American Board, American Board Plastic, being done, being done hospital, Board Plastic, Board Plastic Surgery

Christian Ministry Scholarships

Christian ministry scholarships


According to the Got Questions Ministries website, "ministry" derives from the Greek word "diakoneo," or "to serve" in English. (See References 1) Today, Christian ministries are dedicated to helping those less fortunate than others. They do this by setting an example for other Christians. To help them do their work, Christian Ministries provide other ministries with several scholarships and grants each year.








Community Christian Ministries


Established in 1920s, the Community Christian Ministries offers financial aid to Christian agencies that provide services to the poor and disadvantaged in Michigan. Partnering with other nonprofit organizations, this organization can provide grants from $400 to $5,000 each year.


Christian Union


240 Nassau St.


Princeton, NJ 0842


609-688-1700


www.involve.christian-union.org


Acts 1:8 Ministry


The Acts 1:8 Ministry was started in 2002. This international ministry awards grants to assist churches and ministries who manage and operate the Planned Acts of Christian Kindness programs. The foundation awards recipients $250 annually.


Acts 1:8 Ministry


2121 S. Oneida St.


Green Bay, WI 54304


920-494-2289


www.acts18.org








Christian Ministries Scholarship Fund


The Christian Ministries Scholarship fund is awarded each year to individuals studying for a vocation in a Christian ministry. The scholarship is intended for members of the Christian Church of Mid-America in the regions of Illinois and Missouri. Grants are awarded for undergraduate education and seminary work. However, preference is given to accredited full-time seminary students. The scholarship amount is determined each year based on available funds.


The Christian Church of Mid-America


3328 Bennett Lane


Jefferson City, MO 65110


573-636-8149


www.mid-americadisciples.org


The Christian Fund for the Disabled


The international outreach program Joni and Friends focuses on people with disabilities. The program offers scholarships through the Christian Fund for the Disabled. Funding is intended to supply the basic needs as well as the spiritual needs to individuals with disabilities and their care takers. The Christian Fund's goal is to provide means for ministries to strengthen their awareness about disabilities and working with the disabled. The foundation grants funding for rehabilitation, special treatments that are not covered under insurance, adaptive equipment and education courses that center around disability issues. National grants are award up to $2,500 and international grants are given up to $1,000.


Joni and Friends International Disability Center


3009 Ladyface Court


Agoura Hills, CA 91376


818-707-5664

Tags: Christian Ministries, each year, Acts Ministry, Christian Fund, Christian Church, Christian Church Mid-America, Christian Fund Disabled

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

High School Cheerleading Banquet Ideas

Celebrate the end of the cheer season with a cheerleading banquet.








Cheerleaders help to cheer their school's sports team to victory, and at the end a season, it's important to recognize their efforts, too. Recognize the team members as individuals and leave them with a special gift to remember the season. Incorporate easy ideas that can be tailored to fit any school.


Awards


Students love to receive awards, so consider having the team vote on fun awards for each team member before the banquet. Then, at banquet time, team members can each receive an award. To do this, think of fun, creative awards for the students on your team. Some examples include the following:








Most Creative


Best Jumper


Best Dressed


Biggest Mouth


Most Likely to Drive Coach Smith Crazy


Most Flexible


Strongest Cheerleader


Most Likely to Cheer in College


Future Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader


Think of the same number of awards as you have cheerleaders, so that each student can get one. Write down the awards on a ballot and have each cheerleader vote for each award. At the banquet, give each cheerleader an award certificate with her name and award.


Banquet Gifts


Provide a gift for each cheerleader to commemorate the season. You could create the gifts together as a team beforehand, or use them as a surprise for the team during the banquet. You could also have special gifts that are specifically for the upperclassmen, seniors and/or captain(s). Gifts could be simple, such as a key chain or team pens, or you could do a more elaborate gift. Consider purchasing small frames from your local hobby or art store. Place the team or competition picture inside the frame. On the back of the frame, write a personal note for each team member. Or, you could encourage the team member to sign each other's frames. You could even have scrapbooks for your senior members and ask the other team members to write special notes in their books. In addition to team members, purchase a small gift for parents who helped out during the season.


Banquet Themes


Choose a theme for your celebration that matches the feel of your season. Use simple decorations to make the evening special for cheerleaders and parents. If your team had a winning season, call the banquet the "Winner's Circle," and decorate with checkered flags or anything related to car racing. If you had a tougher season, consider using the theme, "It's a Jungle Out There," and decorating with your mascot.

Tags: team members, each cheerleader, team member, each team, each team member, Most Likely, your team

Quality Medical Transcription Training

Quality medical transcription training begins at industry association-approved schools.


Medical transcriptionists must have quality medical transcription training in order to be successful in their careers. A strong education begins at schools approved by the industry's professional association, the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity.








Education


In the past, medical transcriptionists perfected their craft primarily through on-the-job training. As medicine has grown more complex and technology has continued to evolve, a formal classroom education is now requisite to learning the basic competencies of the profession.


Theory


AHDI-approved programs consist of multiple benchmarks for a fully comprehensive curriculum, eight of which are mandatory. Medical transcriptionists are exposed to many different areas, such as medicine, pharmacology, law, PC operations, industry style. They must master a basic foundation in these subjects before moving to the practical portion of their training.








Practice


Practical application is an essential component of a quality medical transcriptionist training program. To achieve this, medical transcriptionists type actual dictation from medical professionals over and over again, applying the fundamentals of theory that they learned in the classroom.

Tags: medical transcription training, quality medical, transcription training

Monday, December 24, 2012

Test Lego Skills

Lego building blocks are often used in the classroom to help elementary age students develop eye-hand coordination, and build logic and reasoning skills. Legos may also be used as teaching aids for subjects such as math and geometry. Lego Mindstorm and Mindstorm NXT products introduce older students to scientific principles such as motors, sensors, robotics and computer engineering. Testing students' Lego skills should done by assigning age-appropriate tasks. Allow students ample time to complete an assigned task, based on the difficulty of the given project.


Instructions


1. Test kindergarten and first grade students for basic knowledge and skills. The students should understand how pieces fit together, and demonstrate eye-hand coordination that is sufficient to complete this task. Students may demonstrate the ability to duplicate simple structures and to complete a given pattern or sequence using Lego systems with stationery parts. At this age, students should know the names of colors and basic shapes. They should be able to follow simple directions in order to complete a specified project.


2. Assess students in second and third grade for intermediate Lego building skills. Examine students' ability to incorporate moving parts into a design, including items like gears, wheels and tires. Evaluate ability to duplicate illustrated and written design plans. Test ability to plan and create projects independently as well as in small groups.


3. Evaluate geometry skills. Students should demonstrate age-appropriate skills in geometry, including the ability to construct shapes and duplicate complex patterns. Students in fourth through sixth grade may be evaluated for ability to create objects of a designated height, length and width. They may also be asked to demonstrate mathematical reasoning by defining area, surface area and other mathematical principles.


4. Assess advanced skills. Students in grades five and higher may be introduced to advanced concepts using Lego Mindstorm or Mindstorm NXT products. Assess students understanding of scientific principles including motors, sensors, robotics and computer engineering based on age and ability. Encourage students to plan and design working machines. Test students' ability to duplicate projects. Assess basic comprehension of how specific projects are designed and why they work or do not work. Test thinking and reasoning skills by asking students to formulate a solution to a problem, create a machine that can perform a useful function or build a robot that can complete a specified task.

Tags: ability duplicate, Assess students, complete specified, computer engineering, eye-hand coordination, Lego building

Friday, December 21, 2012

Calculate A Straightline Depreciation

Calculate a Straight-Line Depreciation


Depreciation refers to the loss of value of an item or piece of property over time due to use or aging. Being able to accurately calculate depreciation helps to make your financial records more accurate. For example, if you bought a $10,000 computer system for your company that would last 10 years, and you did not depreciate the cost of the computer over the life of the computer, your company's financial statements would reflect a $10,000 loss in year one and no expenses in the remaining nine years. To calculate depreciate using the straight-line method, you need to know the purchase price, estimated value of the item at the end of use, if any, and the number of years the item will last.


Instructions


1. Determine the value of the item at the time you purchased it. For example, a new truck for your landscaping company might cost $23,000.


2. Estimate how long you will use the item. For example, a truck for your landscaping business might last 10 years.


3. Estimate the value, if any, at the time you stop using the item. For example, you might anticipate being able to sell the truck for $3,000 after 10 years.


4. Subtract the final value from step three from the initial value from step 1. For example, subtract $3,000 from $23,000 to find the total loss of value equals $20,000.


5. Divide the total loss of value from step 4 by the length of time you expect to use the item to find the depreciation per year based on the straight line method. For example, divide $20,000 by 10 years to find the truck would depreciate at a rate of $2,000 per year.

Tags: from step, loss value, value from, value from step, value item, example truck

Junior College Basketball Scholarships

Junior colleges can award scholarships in men's and women's basketball.


Junior colleges are two-year institutions of higher learning that award associate's degrees. Many of them offer scholarships to attract talented basketball players to their student bodies. Most of the junior colleges in the U.S., except those in California, Oregon and Washington, follow the scholarship rules established by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).


NJCAA Scholarship Rules








According to the NJCAA website, junior colleges who compete on the division 1 level are permitted to offer 15 full scholarships in men's and women's basketball. These are full scholarships that may not be split to subsidize more players, though some schools may not have the financial resources to offer the full 15 scholarships. The NJCAA website adds that Division 2 junior colleges may offer 15 scholarships as well, but Division 2 schools can only offer support for tuition, fees and books--not room and board. Division 3 schools are not permitted to offer athletic scholarships in any sport.


NJCAA Academic Requirements


To be eligible to compete and receive a scholarship as a freshman at an NJCAA school, athletes must be high school graduates or have earned a general equivalency diploma (GED). Students may be allowed to enroll in classes at the college without a diploma or GED, but to be on scholarship for competing in basketball, athletes must first earn one of these documents.


NJCAA Teams








According to the NJCAA Basketball Guide, 221 schools were competing at the Division 1 level in men's and women's basketball during the 2010-2011 basketball season, and 126 at the Division 2 level. Schools competing in these divisions range across the country, except for the states of California, Oregon and Washington which have their own governing organizations.


California, Oregon and Washington


Junior college athletics in California are governed by the California Community College Athletics Association (CCCAA), which does not permit the state's colleges to offer athletic scholarships. In addition, the schools can only offer academic state or federal aid to athletes if it is also offered to all other students. Thirty-five schools in Oregon and Washington compete in junior college basketball under the governance of the Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges (NWAACC), which permits its schools to offer eight full scholarships in both men's and women's basketball per year. These scholarships can be divided and split among multiple players.

Tags: full scholarships, Oregon Washington, women basketball, California Oregon, California Oregon Washington, According NJCAA, athletes must

The Job Description Of A Military Lawyer







The Job Description of a Military Lawyer


Military lawyers have been glamorized by movies such as "A Few Good Men," but their day-to-day reality is less glamorous. Very often, they are the military equivalent of civilian lawyers who practices law on behalf of the departments to which they are assigned.


Identification


Military lawyers-also known judge advocate generals-practice law in the U.S. military, according to the Law Crossing website. They attend law school like all lawyers and do not receive any legal military training until after being employed by the military.


Types


While much of the work of military lawyers deals with courts martial, more and more of the law practiced by military lawyers includes areas of law which civilian attorneys practice such as environmental or family law.


General Counsel


In addition to the civilian law, a military lawyer might also be retained to be general counsel in the division in which he is assigned.








Where


Military lawyers can only work for the military. However, ex-military lawyers often work for firms that specialize in taking clients who have problems with the government. Their training as a military lawyer makes them ideal for this job and they are often paid well for it.


Salary


As of 2010, the salary for a military lawyer starts in the $30,000 range and later goes as high as $70,000 a year or more, according to the Navy website.

Tags: Description Military, Description Military Lawyer, military lawyer, military lawyers, work military

How Do Sumps And Foundation Drains Work

Basements are one area where sumps and foundation drains are important.


A home's foundation is always vulnerable to excess water problems. The fact that the foundation rests on or in the ground, as is the case with basements, can lead to water buildup from rain runoff, improper grade levels, and sprinklers and water lines for gardens and flower beds. Sumps and foundation drains are the answers to these problems.








Where Is the Water Coming From?


A home's foundation, regardless of its type -- raised, slab or basement -- comes into contact with the ground by design. Building codes require contractors to include vapor barriers, drainage systems and soil grading to prevent water buildup around the foundation. However, even these steps won't always stop excess water from collecting around the foundation, especially if there is a high water table in your area or if the ground isn't sloped away from the house correctly. Leaking rain gutters and downspouts that don't release runoff far enough away from the foundation also cause water buildup. Water gets into basements in many ways, including around window wells, through cracks in the foundation walls and even from accumulated moisture due to condensation that seeps through the floor and walls.


How Foundation Drains Work








Foundation drains, sometimes referred to as footing drains, are actually a system of PVC pipes, gravel and a special fabric that filters water into the system. Foundation drains collect ground water on the fabric and in the gravel, which then seeps into the perforated PVC pipes that route the collected water away from the house to a sewer or storm water system. Pipes that connect to foundation drains are also installed in footings and window wells in basements before the foundation is poured.


Other Steps with Foundation Drains


The ability of foundation drains to work is augmented by techniques and materials that home builders either incorporate into their regular installation methods for a home's foundation or are requested by the buyer. These extra steps include using a waterproof paint or specialized matting -- known as dimple mat -- on foundation walls, damp-proof paint on footings and cement wedges where the walls join the footings to direct groundwater away from the foundation.


How Sumps Work


Sump pumps, otherwise known as sumps, are useful tools when water that collects around and under a foundation finds its way through the flooring. Sumps are especially useful for groundwater that seeps through basement floors. A pit -- about 4 foot square and 30 inches deep -- is typically dug into the floor, usually in an area where groundwater is most evident. Sump pumps consist of a small motor mounted on top of a pipe that goes into the pit, along with a float that rises with the groundwater to activate the motor switch. Sumps are connected at ground level to pipes that lead the collected water out through the foundation to the septic or sewer system for removal.

Tags: away from, home foundation, water buildup, area where, around foundation

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Public Administration Topics For Term Papers







Public administration majors study the influence of municipal governance.


Public administration topics for term papers are academic essays in which majors attempt to understand the dynamics of municipal governance. Students study the role of urban politics, public personnel management and regulatory policy and how it affects the democratic process. Before writing term papers, students conduct independent research on the nature of running a bureaucracy, administering public funds, evaluating programs and managing the economic aspects of municipal expenditures. Students use public administration topics to better understand the role of managing a public entity.


Fiscal Administration, Bureaucracy and Public Personnel








Public administration topics for term papers often focus on the impact of fiscal administration on a city. Within their papers, students criticize the municipal government's inability to administer city funds properly. For example, students discuss the politics involved in establishing and preparing the city budget. They use public administration topics to explore the influence of federal and state bureaucracies. They also explore the role of public personnel in terms of analyzing the application of problem-solving techniques by city leaders.


The Legal and Ethical Environment in Public Administration


Academic business departments and most social science majors offer courses on ethics and the impact of law on making daily political decisions. Public administration topics for term papers focus on the ethical and legal decisions key leaders make in managing the democratic process. Students focus on the sociopolitical implications of municipal governance and within their papers, they typically highlight how public administrators respond to accountability requests by its citizens and state government.


Quantitative Analysis and Program Evaluation


Public administration majors are required to enroll in a statistics course in which they learn process quantitative data. Students use computer technology to analyze and present research findings. Public administration research topics typically include a full exploration of public policy and its impact upon citizens. Students employ analytical techniques such as forecasting and cost-benefit analysis to evaluate past public programs. They perform needs assessments, evaluate the impact of fiscal administration and review past research projects related to program evaluation.


Urban Management, Diversity and Policy Planning


Urban management refers to the administration of government services. Students learn about the interrelationship between municipal and administrative structures and the management of public services for the local community. For example, the public administrator is responsible for developing frameworks for managing diversity and the organizational performance of the municipal corporation. Therefore, public administration topics for term papers always include references to the struggles of marginalized groups and how the municipal organization assesses and removes barriers. Students also cover the role of policy planning in managing human behavior.

Tags: administration topics, term papers, topics term, topics term papers, administration topics term, municipal governance

List Of Cal State Schools

List of Cal State Schools


Twenty-three campuses make up the California State University (CSU) system. CSU campuses span the state from Northern to Central to Southern California. They are in major urban centers and smaller cities and towns. As of January 2010, almost 450,000 students attend CSU schools. Cal State schools are among the most diverse in the nation. In 2007, of just more than 50,000 first-time freshman, 29,115 were female, 3,673 were African American, 13,753 were Hispanic, 9,293 were Asian or Pacific Islander and 358 were American Indian. The Cal State website says the CSU system is the largest and most affordable four-year university system in the nation.


Northern California CSU Campuses


The Northern California CSU campuses offer a wide variety of environments to prospective students. Several smaller schools, including Humboldt State, CSU-Chico and Sonoma State University, tout their ability to provide low student-to-faculty ratios. For example, Humboldt State had 7,800 students as of January 2010 and a 21-1 student-faculty ratio. Other schools specialize, such as California Maritime University, which is the only degree-granting maritime university on the west coast and one of seven in the United States.


Humboldt State University


1 Harpst St.


Arcata, CA 95521


(707) 826-3011


http://www.humboldt.edu/


California State University-Chico


400 W. First St.


Chico, CA 95929


(530) 898-INFO


http://www.csuchico.edu/


California State University-Sacramento


6000 J St.


Sacramento, CA 95819








(916) 278-6011


http://www.csus.edu/


Sonoma State University


1801 E. Cotati Ave.


Rohnert Park, CA 94928


(707) 664-2880


http://www.sonoma.edu/


The California Maritime Academy


200 Maritime Academy Drive


Vallejo, CA 94590


(707) 654-1000


http://www.csum.edu/


San Francisco State University


1600 Holloway Ave.


San Francisco, CA 94132


(415) 338-1111


http://www.sfsu.edu


California State University-East Bay


25800 Carlos Bee Blvd.


Hayward, CA 94542


(510) 885-3000


http://www.csueastbay.edu/


San Jose State University


1 Washington Square


San Jose, CA 95192


(408) 924-1000


http://www.sjsu.edu


Central California CSU Campuses


CSU-Monterey Bay and CSU-Stanislaus, like the smaller CSU campuses in Northern California, point out their ability to offer a wide variety of majors with a relatively small number of students. CSU-Fresno, on the other hand, is situated on a 388-acre main campus in addition to a 1,011-acre farm used to support its extensive agricultural programs. While many of the schools offer sports, CSU-Fresno has seen great success with its football team, the Bulldogs, which often is listed among college football's top 25 teams.


California State University-Fresno


5241 N. Maple Ave.


Fresno, CA 93740


(559) 278-4240


http://www.csufresno.edu


California State University-Stanislaus


1 University Circle


Turlock, CA 95382


(209) 667-3122


http://www.csustan.edu/


CSU-Monterey Bay


100 Campus Center


Seaside, CA 93955


(831) 582-3000








http://csumb.edu/


Southern California CSU Campuses


Virtually all of the CSU schools in Southern California are in large towns or major urban settings with student populations greater than 10,000. The only CSU schools in the region with fewer than 10,000 students as of January 2010 are CSU-Bakersfield, CSU-San Marcos and CSU-Channel Islands. Four schools--San Diego State University and CSU-Long Beach, CSU-Northridge and CSU-Fullerton--have more than 30,000 students. "U.S. News and World Report" ranked CSU-Fullerton one of the top 10 public universities in the west offering master's degrees. Its master's degree program in nursing for nurse anesthetists was listed in 10th place on the "U.S. News and World Report" 2009 rankings. CSU-Long Beach has received similar accolades. In 2008 it was listed as one of the top five comprehensive public universities in the western United States for the fourth straight year by "U.S. News and World Report."


California Polytechnic State University


San Luis Obispo, CA 93407


(805) 756-1111


http://www.calpoly.edu/


California State University-Bakersfield


9001 Stockdale Highway


Bakersfield, CA 93311


(661) 654-CSUB


http://www.csub.edu/


California State University-Channel Islands


1 University Drive


Camarillo CA 93012


(805) 437-8400


http://www.csuci.edu


California State University-Northridge


18111 Nordhoff St.


Northridge, CA 91330


(818) 677-1200


http://www.csun.edu


California State University-Los Angeles


5151 State University Drive


Los Angeles, CA 90032


(323) 343-3000


http://www.calstatela.edu


California State University-Dominguez Hills


1000 E. Victoria St.


Carson, CA 90747


(310) 243-3696


http://www.csudh.edu


California State University-Long Beach


1250 Bellflower Blvd.


Long Beach, CA 90840


(562) 985-4111


http://www.csulb.edu


California State University-San Bernardino


5500 University Parkway


San Bernardino, CA 92407


(909) 537-5000


http://www.csusb.edu


California State University-Fullerton


800 N. State College Blvd.


Fullerton, CA 92831


(657) 278-2011


http://www.fullerton.edu


California State Polytechnic University-Pomona


3801 W. Temple Ave.


Pomona, CA 91768


(909) 869-7659


http://www.csupomona.edu


California State University-San Marcos


333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road


San Marcos, CA 92096


(760) 750-4000


http://www.csusm.edu


San Diego State University


5500 Campanile Drive


San Diego, CA 92182


(619) 594-5200


http://www.sdsu.edu

Tags: California State, State University, Humboldt State, January 2010, News World, News World Report

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Memorize Spanish Vocabulary

Learning a new language can be a valuable tool in future career and education plans. Memorizing vocabulary words is the first step in learning a new language. Spanish is a language many students in the United States choose to study. Some students choose to continue their study of the Spanish language in a Spanish-speaking country. Immersing yourself in a Spanish-speaking country helps develop your use and understanding of the language.


Instructions


1. Prepare flash cards. Use note cards to create flash cards. Write the Spanish vocabulary word on one side and the English translation on the other side. Make sure the words are spelled correctly and accents are placed in the proper locations.








2. Spend time each day reviewing the note cards. Take these with you on the bus or as you walk to school. Any extra practice helps, even if it's only one word. As you review, think about the Spanish word and how it is spelled and the accent. Make time to go through the entire stack of note cards once or twice each day. Set aside those you don't know and go through those cards one more time.


3. Make word associations and look for cognates. Try linking a Spanish word to an action, event, person or thing that helps you remember the word. For example, the word el amigo means a male friend in Spanish. Break the word "amigo" into "me" and "go" as in "me go with my friend." Picture yourself going with a male friend in your mind to enforce the connection. Look for Spanish cognates of English words such as "animal" is "el animal" or "tomato" is "el tomate."


4. Practice with a native speaker. Using vocabulary is the best way to remember the words. Find a native speaker and utilize the vocabulary you know, even if it's just a few expressions. Hearing a native accent will help train your ear and assist with your pronunciation. Check with your Spanish teacher for suggestions on practice partners.








5. Label common objects around the house or classroom. Use sticky notes or note cards and tape to label common items around the house. Place the Spanish equivalent of the word on the item so each time you see the object you'll be reminded of the vocabulary word. When you see the word, practice saying the word in Spanish. Pull these off every couple of weeks and test your knowledge.

Tags: note cards, around house, flash cards, male friend, native speaker, Spanish language, Spanish word

Financial Aid For Military Schools

Many students of military schools attend on financial assistance.


Many types of financial aid are available for military schools. At the high school level, options include grants, loans and scholarships; at the collegiate level, many military school students take advantage of the Reserve Officers Training Corps, which provides full tuition and a stipend in exchange for a service commitment after graduation.


Grants and Scholarships


For high school military academies, grants and scholarships are available from many sources. One of the most common sources is the military academy or school itself. The Massanutten Military Academy in Virginia, for example, offers music and art scholarships, plus scholarships for students who have siblings enrolled or are legacies. More than 40 percent of all high school military students attend school on full scholarships given by their schools, according to the Military School website. Prospective students should inquire at their schools' financial aid office to see if they qualify for grants or scholarships.


Loans


If a student does not qualify for a grant or scholarship, his parents may take out a loan to finance tuition at a high school military academy. All these loans are private. Some common sources for K-12 private school education loans include Sallie Mae's Family Education Loan, which allows borrowers to take out the full cost of tuition each year and an additional $6,000 for education-related expenses, and Citibank's CitiAssist K-12 loan, which allows parents to take out up to $15,000 per year. At the collegiate level, students who need loans may, depending on financial need, take out Stafford or Perkins loans with more favorable interest rates than private loans. Students who need financial aid for college should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid online to see if they are eligible.


ROTC


Students interested in enrolling in the military after military school can join either the Reserve Officers' Training Corps in college or the Junior ROTC (JROTC) in high school. The JROTC does not offer students a scholarship for joining, but enrollment in the collegiate ROTC generally entitles a student to a full-tuition scholarship, additional funds for books and fees and a stipend of up to $5,000 per year. Students must commit to serve in the military after graduation for a certain number of years, which varies by branch.

Tags: high school, high school military, school military, after graduation, collegiate level

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

What Is Pharmacy Technology

Pharmacy technology is an important part of the health care system. Also known as pharmacy technicians, pharmacy technologists are responsible for putting the many aspects of pharmacy technology into practice.


Definition


Pharmacy technology is the application of scientific knowledge, techniques and methods to the practice of pharmacy or pharmacology. This work is performed under the supervision of a pharmacist.


Prescriptions


Pharmacy technologists receive prescriptions, pull the corresponding medications and dispense them in the amount and dosages indicated by the prescription.


Compounding








Pharmacy technology involves the compounding of medications such as creams and ointments using compounding machines or manual tools such as a mortar and pestle.


Sterile Technique


A pharmacy technology program teaches technicians prepare sterile products such as intravenous solutions. This may be done manually under the supervision of a pharmacist, or by using machines that automate much of the process.








Inventory


Pharmacy technologists carry out computerized and manual medication inventory practices. They rotate stock, order new medication and manage all aspects of drug inventory.


Verification


Pharmacy technologists verify that prescription information is accurate and complete before filling. They also make sure that errors and contradictions are brought to the attention of the pharmacist or physician.

Tags: Pharmacy technologists, Pharmacy technology, supervision pharmacist, under supervision, under supervision pharmacist

Saic Or Mica Art Schools

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Maryland Institute College of Art stand as two of the oldest and highly selective visual arts and design schools in the United States. MICA, in Baltimore, is the oldest art school in the U.S., launched in 1826. Founded in 1866, SAIC, with its adjoining museum, has the largest art school campus in the nation.


Student Statistics


In 2010, MICA has approximately 1,714 undergraduate and graduate 218 students--63 percent female--with an international student rate of 6 percent. SAIC's student population consists of 2,379 undergraduates and 719 graduate students, breaking down to 67 percent female and 33 percent male, with 17 percent of them international students.


Programs


SAIC and MICA both feature a broad selection of fine arts and commercial arts undergraduate and graduate programs typically found at most art institutes. In addition, SAIC has fashion design, sound, art therapy, emerging technologies, architecture and interior design, arts administration, historic preservation and writing programs. MICA students can also pursue summer low-residency or online master's degrees, and both schools offer a one-year, post-baccalaureate certificate.


Tuition


For the 2010-11 school year, SAIC has set its tuition at $35,550, while MICA charges $34,550, with competitive scholarships and financial aid offered at both schools. Students at MICA vie for full scholarships as well.


Top Rated Institutions


"U.S. News & World Report," in ranking the top art schools, listed SAIC as No. 3 and put MICA at No. 4, while "The Chronicle of Higher Education" named the MICA No. 1 among specialty schools in 2008 in producing Fulbright Scholars.


Notable Alumni


Well-known alumni from MICA include artists Jeff Koons, Donald Baechlor and Nancy Rubins, while famous SAIC graduates include painter Georgia O' Keeffe, fashion designer Cynthia Rowley and writer David Sedaris.


Apply


Both schools give tours and participate in National Portfolio Days, which allow prospective students to meet with school admissions officers and review their artwork. Students can find application information, including deadlines, required submission materials and fees, on each school's website.

Tags: both schools, undergraduate graduate

Transfer From A Public To Private High School

Transfer From a Public to Private High School


There is an on-going debate about the benefits of private education over public education, but whatever the reasons you choose a private high school over a public one, there are a few obstacles you may need to overcome. Public high schools receive government funding and have to accept everyone, where many private schools pick and choose people from certain demographics for their student population. The process may seem overwhelming, but staying organized can make a huge difference.


Instructions


1. Decide which private school you want to transfer to from your high school. There are independent schools, parochial schools and proprietary schools. There might be constraints based on previous test scores, grade point average or tuition affordability. Independent schools tend to be the most expensive, whether they board or not, and parochial schools tend to be the least expensive.


2. Obtain admission materials from the private high school. This is something you want to do early in the school year, so you can apply for the following year. Some places require even earlier application. Keep a day-planner or a list so you do not miss any deadlines.


3. Send in your application forms to the private high school and take any admissions tests or standardized testing required by the private high school.








4. Apply for any scholarships, grants or financial aid you may need to cover your tuition and other costs or fees for the private school. Admissions Quest and the National Association of Independent Schools both have lists of scholarship and grant programs to help people who might need financial aid. Your new private school also might have financial aid available for students in certain circumstances.


5. Make sure the credits you already have can transfer over. If some do not, you have to take extra classes or may be able to "test out" of those credits.


6. Ensure the public high school sends your transcripts and records to the private high school. The schools may work this out on their own, but following up helps you get the peace of mind of knowing it is taken care of. It also makes you look professional and mature to the private school.

Tags: high school, private school, private high school, From Public, From Public Private

Monday, December 17, 2012

Write A Cover Letter In Apa Style







When submitting a cover letter within the field of psychology you should follow APA guidelines.


If you are submitting a manuscript for publication, or are applying for a position in the field of psychology, you will want to include a cover letter that makes clear your intentions for your submission. You also will want to ensure that the cover letter you submit is in keeping with American Psychological Association (APA) style guidelines.


Instructions


1. Address your cover letter by naming an exact recipient. Regardless of the intent of your cover letter, you should target one specific person. If necessary, research the organization to confirm that the person to whom you are writing is the one who handles these types of inquiries. This shows you have a real interest in being involved in the organization and that you are not simply sending out letters randomly. The Purdue Online Writing Lab points out that your cover letter determines the first impression you will make on a potential publisher, employer or adviser. Be sure your cover letter is specific to the matter at hand.


2. Use a business letter format, starting with the date, followed by the name and contact information of the person to whom you are writing. Include a formal greeting, such as "Dear Mr. Jones," followed by a colon. Your letter should be flush left with one-inch margins on all sides of your document. Select a font that is no larger than 12 points. Accepted font choices in APA style are Times, Arial or similar legible fonts. This letter should be single-spaced, with a space between each paragraph.


3. Explain in the first sentence of the body of your letter why you are writing. For example, if you are submitting an article for publication in a psychology journal, you could write, "I have enclosed a document for your review which explores the possible connection between diet and developmental disorders." Throughout the body of your letter, show the person to whom you are writing how the organization will benefit from your involvement.


4. Include specific information about the contents of the package you are sending. The Purdue Online Writing Lab suggests that you use a "story-like format" to describe your academic and professional background in your cover letter. Cover letters are used to add context to the materials being submitted. If you have enclosed a résumé, manuscript and photographs in your package you will want to address what is being submitted and how they should be reviewed by the receiver.








5. Explain your intention for sending the cover letter and the other contents of the package. According to the fifth edition of the APA Publication Manual, the cover letter is a rare exception in APA style guidelines that allows you to write from a first-person point of view. Detail how you would like the reader to proceed after reviewing the package.


6. Close your cover letter by thanking the recipient for his time and consideration when reviewing your submission. Sign your name with blue or black ink at the bottom of the page.

Tags: cover letter, your cover, your cover letter, letter should, person whom

Sunday, December 16, 2012

Making Litmus Paper

Making Litmus Paper


Litmus Paper


A pH indicator is a chemical that changes color in the presence of an acid or a base. An acid is a substance that has lost an electron. A substance that is capable of neutralizing an acid is called a base or alkali. You may have noticed, when you buy a "red" cabbage at the store, it's actually purple. In the course of preparing the cabbage, if you submerge it in tap water, it appears blue. When you add it to your coleslaw, it takes on a red color. This is because the cabbage contains a pigment that functions as a natural pH indicator. Tap water is slightly basic, causing it to turn blue. The vinegar in coleslaw is a dilute form of acetic acid, which makes the cabbage turn red. If the juice is extracted from the cabbage and allowed to dry on filter paper it makes a neutral litmus paper and can be used to test for acidic or basic conditions.


Do It


To make your own litmus paper, cut or shred some red cabbage leaves into small pieces. Place the cabbage leaves in a bowl and pour enough boiling water over them to cover the leaves. Set aside for 30 minutes. Pour the mixture through a coffee filter to remove the cabbage leaves, collecting the juice in a clean, lidded jar. Allow solution to stand at room temperature until cool. Cut some small strips of blotting paper. Dip them into the cabbage solution, then lay them on a plate to dry. Once the strips are completely dry they are ready to use.


To test your litmus paper, take three strips and dip them into one of the following: lemon juice, Gatorade, or ammonia-based window cleaner. The lemon juice is an acid and should turn it bright pink. The Gatorade is neutral and shouldn't change the color at all. And the ammonia is a base, which should turn your paper green.


How it Works


By pouring the boiling water over the shredded cabbage, you extracted a type of pigment known as an anthocyanin. The color of anthocyanin molecules changes depending on the pH of their surrounding environment, which made them very useful in the creation of litmus paper. This particular litmus will not tell you the exact pH of a substance, only if it is an acid or a base.

Tags: cabbage leaves, litmus paper, acid base, boiling water, boiling water over

Friday, December 14, 2012

Fix A Story Plot

A story is based on plot, right? If you're a beginning author, then you've tried so many plots that you've lost count. Here are a few pointers for getting through the plotting process and come out the other side with a great plot!


Instructions


1. Whether you saved your ideas into a file or just have them in your head, go back and review them.


2. Read them through. What happened? Find the part where your mind begins to wander. Stop. What went wrong? If it was wrong from the beginning, then start over. But not from scratch. You still have a good idea and good characters. You just used them at the wrong time.


3. Who are those characters with so much spice that you couldn't bear not to have them in your story? I'm sure they're good characters, but maybe they were introduced at the wrong time. See if you can successfully introduce a character at a different point int he story. This could make all the difference.


4. What's that scene that keeps playing at the back of your mind? You can't get it out of your head but it's too early in the story to use it. Did you use it anyway? A lot of times this is what goes wrong. Someone had a good idea but couldn't wait long enough to build a structure so they could use it. The solution: wait. Put that idea aside and say to yourself 'What needs to happen before I can use this really cool scene?' Then start to type.


5. You've gotten rid of your last story but you have the same plot. You're waiting for the really cool scene to come into place but you're getting bored of waiting. STOP. Never type if you are bored. This is your idea. If you 're getting bored with this story then think how drop down dead, drooling bored your reader will be. Get up and do something else. Read a book. Maybe you're distracted because it's getting near lunchtime and the hunger pains are kicking in.

Tags: cool scene, getting bored, good characters, good idea, have them, have them your

Civil Court Verdict Definition

Juries issue verdicts in most civil cases.








Civil courts render a variety of different verdicts. Judges issue some of the verdicts, while juries announce other kinds of verdicts. The definition of a verdict depends on the type of verdict involved.


Standard Verdict


Law.com defines a verdict as "the decision of a jury after a trial, which must be accepted by the trial judge to be final." This is the definition of a standard verdict issued in civil court.








Directed Verdict


Trial judges, not juries, issue directed verdicts. A judge would direct a verdict against a party with the burden of proof if that party closed its case and stopped presenting evidence without meeting its burden. For example, if a prosecutor closed her case against a defendant before proving all the elements of the charges, the judge would direct a verdict against the state.


Special Verdict


Juries, not judges, issue special verdicts. The definition of a special verdict, according to Thefreedictionary.com, is "a verdict rendered on certain specific factual issues posed by the court without finding for one party or the other."


Parties request special verdicts when a core factual issue is so contested that it makes settlement impossible. The jury would answer only the factual question, which might allow the parties to settle the case. This approach can save money for both sides by "cutting to the chase" on the main point of contention.


Judgment Not Withstanding Verdict


A judge issues a judgment not withstanding verdict when the judge determines that the jury verdict is not supported by fact or law. Judges prefer not to direct verdicts and they rely on juries to reject bad cases, as such results are more likely to hold up on appeal. However, sometimes juries award money damages on bad cases, leaving the judge to decide whether to overrule the jury's verdict.


Compromise Verdict


Compromise verdicts occur when jurors split the difference in how they value the case. For example, some jurors may value a case at $20,000 while others value the case at $50,000. A compromise verdict would occur if the jurors decided to award $35,000 even though none of them actually valued the case at that amount.

Tags: value case, closed case, direct verdict, direct verdict against, judge would

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Get Through The Chamber Of Secrets Part Of "Harry Potter Years 14"







Play as a collection of popular Harry Potter characters, in Lego form, in the video game "Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4" for the PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii and Xbox 360. Journey through Lego renditions of the first four Harry Potter movies and books: "The Philosopher's Stone," "The Chamber of Secrets," "The Prisoner of Azkaban" and "The Goblet of Fire." Control Harry and others as you battle through the "Chamber of Secrets," starting with a daring escape from Harry's muggle summer home, all the way up to the epic showdown with the Basilisk.


Instructions


1. Learn the controls. Casting spells on Lego objects and casting learned spells have different buttons. Cast spells on Lego objects by hitting "X" on the Xbox 360, "B" on the Nintendo Wii and "Square" on the PlayStation 3. Show the spell wheel by holding "Y" on the Xbox 360, "C" on the Nintendo Wii and "Triangle" on the PlayStation 3. Cast spells through the spell wheel by hitting "B" on the X360, "Z" on the Nintendo Wii and "Circle" on the PlayStation 3.


2. Begin the "Chamber of Secrets." Run through the yard to the house. Find Ginny by zapping all the moving objects, as her location changes every new game. Wave at the painting over the fireplace, take the jar of Floo Powder, and use it on the fire. Follow the cut-scene to meet Hagrid.


3. Use Hagrid to stop the chests from attacking. Grab the crank situated on the giant hand statue. Clear the dust off the mirror, and angle Hagrid up towards the crank to grab it. Walk through Knockturn Alley. Shoot the biggest jack-in-the-box to reveal a reaper, which gives up a handle. Yank it to remove a stand, giving you access to the end of the alley. Head to the lesson in Herbology Class inside the hallway of classrooms. Walk to the wardrobe and grab a pair of earmuffs. Pot the three mandrakes and travel to the Courtyard to get to the Quidditch Gate. Walk onto the field.


4. Cast "Leviosa" on the trapdoor to fall down to the next level. Zap the chest to reveal a Beater club. Shoot it to destroy the barrier. Build the springboard from the pieces on the ground. Zap Dobby when he appears to take off some of his health. Use Hagrid to zap the chain, then walk over the boards. Zap Dobby again to take off more health. Cast "Immobilius" and "Lumos" to find the Golden Snitch in the next room, which drops pieces to create stairs. Go up the fight of stairs, take a right and walk up the ladder. Pull the purple rock to the lever.


5. Ascend the ladder and shoot Dobby. Use Hagrid to pull the chain. Pile up the blocks that fall and head up. Shoot Dobby for the fourth time. Fall down and walk over the bridge, shoot the barrel and then shoot Dobby one last time.


6. Grab ingredients to heal Harry. Cast "Leviosa" on the skeleton near the back right of the room to get a bone arm. Use Pomfrey to pick up Mandrake and walk it to the back -left to find a blossom. Cast "Leviosa" on Malfoy's bed. Put together the armor pieces that fall out and walk to the next room. Collect the Red Spider by casting "Leviosa" on the brush.


7. Walk to the Great Hall through the Clock Tower Courtyard. Learn the "Expelliarmus" spell from Lockhart. Defeat Malfoy in the duel by shooting him five times. Follow Malfoy up to the Slytherin dorm and use Parseltongue on the giant snaked statue. Put the pieces together that fall to the ground. Walk down to the main hall, and down to the class hall to the Potions class. Gather black hair, red cherry and green apple from around the room. Mix ingredients in the pot to create Polyjuice Potion.


8. Walk from the classroom hallway to the Main Hall, and through the lobby to reach the girl's restroom. Once again, gather black hair, red cherry and green apple from around the room to create the potion. Use the Polyjuice potion to turn into Crabbe and Goyle. Walk back to the Slytherin door, which now lets you in. Go to the far-right and cast "Leviosa" on the globe. Levitate the skull, then its eyes, to complete this stage.


9. Run back to the girl's washroom. Defeat Myrtle by catching the items she throws, and throwing them back. The next scene sends you into the past with Tom Riddle. Walk through the level until you find a chain. Shoot the bookcase to get the bone arm, zap the barrel to get the Thorn Blossom and zap the chest to get the Snake Fang. Combine them to form the Strength Potion, which enables you to pull the chain.


10. Pick up the bridge piece that falls from the chain. Run right and cast "Immobilius" on the Pixies to get more pieces. Pull the parts together to form a bridge, and place the platform pieces on top. Do the same to the right side. Take a drink of the Strength Potion and jump across. Pull the switch. Walk down the hallway until you come to an area with two staircases.


11. Zap the radio, and jump on the switch to move the bridge. Fire at the portrait to acquire a piece for another switch. Build it up, jump on it and go right. Shoot the second radio and continue. Go into the open gates. Fire at the banner to make it drop. Turn it into a board and use it to get up to the next floor. Cast "Lumos" on the vines to get the next part you need. Attach the parts to the wall using the "Leviosa" spell and finish the stage.


12. Follow the spiders from the castle. Raise up the stump. Ride it to the right and get off at the ledge. Fire at the grass to create discs. Cast "Leviosa" to make a rain cloud, revealing a ladder by the giant tree. Make Fang dig under the tree to make it fall. Cross the tree and go down the pier. Cast "Lumos" on the vines to reveal brooms. Ride them down the pond and cast "Leviosa" on the bridge so everyone can cross. Head right and up the ladder. Cast "Immobilius" on all the Pixies and the tree falls.


13. Fight Aragog. Hit the small purple spiders that run across the screen. Cast "Leviosa" after they flip over and fire them at Aragog. Repeat three times to defeat him. After a cut-scene you`ll be placed into a car. Drive it to escape from Aragog and the rampaging spiders. Keep driving away from the spiders to finish the stage.


14. Walk down to the classrooms and head into Lockwarts class. After an event, you'll end up in the girl's bathroom. Send Scabbers the rat into the piping. Find the lever inside and push it. Walk to the next stall and use "Lumos" on the vines. Use Scabbers again to go back into the pipes and hit the next switch. Levitate the cabinet that appears to create a plunger. Carry it over to the green toilet. Use Parseltongue to get into the Chamber of Secrets.


15. Walk left inside the tunnel. Use the plunger on the squid that appears. Build a platform with the parts that appear. Build up three skeletons in the next chamber. Take the plunger that appears and use it on the new squid that comes up. Use the parts that come from it to build a bridge to the exit.


Final Boss


16. Stand in front of the barriers until the Basilisk's eyes stop glowing. Jump out of the way and the creature will burst through the rock. Do this three times to reveal potion ingredients on the other side of the barrier.








17.Create the potion. The ingredients for the Strength Potion are behind the barrier. Blend them together to form the potion. Drink it and pull the chain that's inside. Fawkes the Phoenix blinds the Basilisk. Fire at the Basilisk and it will disappear.


18. Return to the chain and have both Ginny and Harry levitate the chains to lower the pipe. Enter to continue the fight. Cast "Leviosa" on the Sorting Hart to get the Sword of Gryffindor. Cast "Wingardium Leviosa" to hurl it at the Basilisk, and to end the "Chamber of Secrets" section of the game.

Tags: Chamber Secrets, Harry Potter, Lumos vines, pull chain, Strength Potion, that appears, that fall

Become A Pet Psychologist

Has Fido been down since you moved his water bowl? Is Fluffy in a snit over the new kitten? While many humans would snicker over the idea, some pets occasionally need a shrink. People are making a living figuring out what's going on behind the fur. If you'd like to become a pet psychologist, you'll need a love of animals and interest in pet and human behavior - and misbehavior.


Instructions


1. Understand that while most anyone can call themselves a pet trainer or consultant, those are not titles that come with credentials. If you want to be able to be certified and work as a real professional, not be just the person down the street who's good with animals, you will need to follow a traditional education route to becoming a pet psychologist.


2. Acquire the education. You'll eventually need a master's or Ph.D. degree in a behavioral science from an accredited college or university to become certified as a pet psychologist. Take it in steps.


3. Choose your educational direction based on your financial resources and the amount of time you have to commit to classes, studying and working on special projects. Check into student loans or grants and talk to family and friends about your goal and how they could support your efforts.


4. Start with an associate's degree at first or enroll in a veterinarian technician certification program at your local community college, if funds or time are at a premium. You can always take more courses later and work up to a four-year degree.


5. Go for a bachelor's degree in psychology or biology, once you can finance four years. If you have a bachelor's degree, you can work as a paid assistant to a certified, working animal behaviorist and put off the graduate education until you can afford it.


6. Consult with your professors about adding special courses in animal behavior and learning to your basic programs of study, whether it be at the two-year, four-year or master's level.


7. Visit the Animal Behavior Society's website to learn become a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB.) In addition to the education, you'll need to be licensed to work with animals. The CAAB is the highest certification you can acquire as evidenced by the fact there are fewer than 50 people with the designation in the United States.

Tags: bachelor degree, with animals