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This presentation base on some videos we saw in class about doing homework.
The topics were benefits and disadvantages of homework and how it help children development.

Essay 5

The controversy between happiness and a material life

Kalila Gittens

Glenda Moya

        Life is beautiful, but everybody complain about their life, while we have more money knowledge and studies, the pursuit of happiness is a will goal to achieve. People think that happiness is related to work and earn money, but life has shown that these are just a ways to live. Most of the times, poor people have the idea that with money happiness will come along, but happiness depends on the way you enjoy life and small details. If you think only in yourself and you do not share with friends, meet your neighbors or practice your values happiness will be a little farther. Nowadays citizens have forgotten that life is very short, every time people are more consumerist, selfish and fake.

Consumerism can relate to the act of purchase or to the consumption of goods and services considered nonessential.  In this case shopaholics are the ones that will spend the last coin they have to satisfy. The problem is that it is an addiction and most of the times the life of these people base on appearances. They buy to feel better and bluff about what they have. But they are emotionally empty and also they have the idea that everyone comes around envy them.

High level expectation in life is related to study and get a well-paid job. But most of the times when people have achieved this goal they forget about the mean of humbleness. They changed the way they treat friends and family because of successful life.  Acquire certain facilities to live better do not allow you to underestimate people or treat them bad. As more we have more we can afford to help others but pitifully most of us get more selfish every day.

There are many people in the world, each one has their own personality, for example, there are some people that show in internet or social media their wonderful life, but even though their lives are very different. People hide their real personality; because they think that is very important to have material things for being important. Also there are people that change their personality to get close to an especially group of friends. These people like to pretend to be someone they are not, these people are faked and for the rest of their lives they will not be happy. It is very significant to accept what God give in life, because what God give you is for happiness.

In conclusion, everybody should stop and think about is the their behavior is correct. As the poem said, “We’ve learned how to make a living, but not a life.” now people complain for everything, and worry for do a lot of things, but these thing are not the best. Also all people plan more but learn less, think that if you have a lot of studies and degrees your life will be perfect. All of us should not forget to laugh, smile, share with others and the most important love from your family, friends because all these people always stay when you need them. Your life can be changed; it is just a matter of attitude. 

Essay 4

Tips to become a Centenarian

Kalila Gittens

          Longevity is the length or duration of life; it is also a synonym of life expectancy. According to the World Health Organization in 2011 life expectancy overall was 70 years, ranging from 60 years in low-income countries to 80 years in high-income countries. But since 1990, life expectancy at birth has increased globally by 6 years, but during the 1990s the value in Europe has showed stagnation, and in Africa it has even decreased. For Europe, the phenomenon is due principally to adverse mortality trends in the former Soviet Union countries. In Africa the decrease has been caused by HIV/AIDS, but since 2005 the increasing availability of antiretroviral therapy has reduced the spread of the epidemic, and the mortality rising life expectancy to 56 years in Africa. Aside of the information above I’m going to give you some advisees or tips to increase your longevity and become a centenarian.

          A centenarian is a person that lives 100 years or more. Basing on the videos shown in class is good to remained that Nicoya-Guanacaste is one of the longevity hot spots around the world. The interview shows some of the activities that centenarians in Nicoya do to be healthy. Several characteristics relate to 104 years old centenarian named Panchita is that she is work full lady that woke up at three o’clock in the morning for make tortillas also she chop’s wood and take care of the yard with her machete. In other words her strategies base in part on physical activity. 

            Another secrete for live longer is the socialization, the process by which humans learn to internalize norms and values of a given society and a specific culture. In this case the need of affective relations like staying close to family and friends is a very essential fact to feel loved and important for others. This will also help your self-esteem preventing the sense of loneliness and depression. In addition be independent can facilitate everyone life involved by having an ancient in the family. At the same time independence could be the key for make new friends. 

          Besides the previous recommendations we have the importance of the good nutrition. As we know it is not a new topic but it people hardly pays attention to it. Remembering all the good advisees I have heard, eat well is one of the most relevant in other to avoid fatness and diseases. A main tip is the regular consume of nuts, because they are rich fatty acid like Omega 3, they lower the serum LDL cholesterol and prevent coronary heart disease. In fact the science of eat well rely on the balance between proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, water, and roughage.

          In a broader context longevity is a complex combination aim between life experience, personal routine and cultural practices. Something that catches my attention is the cultural and individual lifestyle; it is very interesting how certain things that we do or don’t do benefit or affects others. A simple example is when a woman give birth for me as an afro descent woman there are some things I actually have to do like take a purge few days after having the baby, even though I don’t have one yet I know what I have to at that moment. Also I know a lot of things that my mother and people around have thought me about how to guide my life in a moral, spiritual and healthy way with natural medicine to become a strong and active centenarian. 

Bibliography

OMS (2013). Life expectancy. Recover from:

http://www.who.int/gho/mortality_burden_disease/life_tables/situation_trends_text/en/

Unit 10 No Technology? No way!

     

  Technology has been an excellent tool in the new era we are living in, but unfortunately a lot of people do not understand how to have a  balance point. The addiction to bee connected to social networks like Facebook it is very dangerous because some people post every single thing they does and these information can even help thieves to stole or bribe customers.

Check this video for more information http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7MorwJIPCE

Unit 9 Finding a Niche

           According the information I found San Jose, Costa Rica is, in absolute numbers, the largest recipient of labor migration in the region, said a report by the regional office of Central America and Dominican Republic in the International Labour Organization (ILO) "interregional labor migration flows".

           About 300,000 migrants living in the country, representing about 7% of the total population of Costa Rica.

           Most of these workers come from neighboring Nicaragua, about 75%, but the report warns, the presence of large groups arrived from Colombia and El Salvador.

Find more information at :http://www.elpais.cr/frontend/noticia_detalle/1/77136

Unit 8 Sit Down Meal

        The food is a symbolic element of love, is one of the tools used by mothers to express gratitude and affection to her loved people. A day like today is Mother's Day in Costa Rica and usually the restaurants are filled is a special day and most of the times the family get together and share.

       

        The access of women to work nowadays has made ​​it harder for mothers at least enjoy the meal with her children that is why in a celebration like today my mother take advantage to share with my siblings and I.

        

       Also have one TV at home was another strategy she have done with idea us obligate us to share time together. 

       

       My dad that rest in peace also used is cuisine to express his love to each one of his children, he always made things for the preference of each one, I remembered although he cooked pork he cooked chicken because Kalila did not eat pork.

Unti 7 What's the Use of Homework?

          I may not focus on the amount or method of homework for kids should have, but I after saw this video I realized of the importance of playing piano.

          Of course do homework at home let the parents be aware of what the children are learning and at the same time it make children learn responsibility by managing their time and assignment due dates; Also they learn to study on their own and the teachers can see how much the kids really understand.

         But according to the video they are pretty much benefit when children have practice piano since they young, because it improves math learning, coordination.

Unit 6 Giving to Others

ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood: The Power Of Our Presence

    ESSENCE, the preeminent brand for African-American women, will recognize the extraordinary achievements of Black women in film and television with its 6th annual Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon, taking place on February 21, 2013 at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

        ESSENCE will honor six of the industry’s most inspiring African-American female talents, both in front of the camera and behind-the-scenes, with an esteemed Black Women in Hollywood Award:Oprah Winfrey (Power Award); Alfre Woodard (Vanguard Award); Gabrielle Union (Fierce & Fearless Award); Mara Brock-Akil (Visionary Award); Naomie Harris (Lincoln Shining Star Award); and 2013 Oscar nominee Quvenzhane Wallis (Breakthrough Performance).

One of Hollywood’s most anticipated events during awards season, this star-studded affair commemorates ESSENCE magazine’s annual Hollywood issue (March), which will be available on newsstands on February 8. ESSENCE.com is giving fans exclusive access to the style and substance of Black Women in Hollywood by live streaming all the red-carpet action, including interviews with the stars, starting at 11:30 a.m. PST/2:30 p.m. EST and re-airing that evening at 6 p.m. PST/9 p.m. EST.

“The ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon recognizes the ‘Power of our Presence’, by spotlighting the stellar accomplishments of African-American female performers and creators in film and television,” says ESSENCE Editor-in-Chief, Constance C.R. White . “More importantly, the annual luncheon serves as a source of support and inspiration for the incredibly talented community of Black women who are often overlooked in Hollywood.”

Since its inception in 2008, the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood event has honored some of the most cherished figures in the industry, including: Octavia Spencer, Pam Grier, Halle Berry,Jada Pinkett Smith, Angela Bassett, Queen Latifah, Taraji P. Henson, Viola Davis, Jennifer Hudson, Zoe Saldana, Mary J. Blige, Gabourey Sidibe, Jurnee Smollett, Ruby Dee, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson, Loretta Devine, Gina Prince-Bythewood, and Suzanne de Passe. As a highlight of Oscar week, this elegant luncheon has hosted much of Hollywood’s elite, including Tom Cruise, Will Smith, Amy Adams, Emma Stone, Jordin Sparks, Samuel L. Jackson, Forest Whitaker, James Cameron, Terrence Howard, and Laurence Fishburne, among many others.

The ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon is presented by Lincoln, and sponsored by L’ Oreal Paris, smartwater and Target.

Source: PR Newswire

        I chose this article because it highlights the hard and successful work done by remarkable African American actresses; women’s like Queen Latifah have supported and served as an inspiration for people with multiple needs. Each year, Queen Latifah co-chair exercises Lancelot H. Owens Scholarship Foundation, Inc. Established by her mother, Rita Owens, to perpetuate the memory of a loving son and brother, the foundation provides scholarships to students with excellent academic records and limited financial resources.

In addition Oprah Winfey is considered to be one of the most influential women in the world. She uses her power and resources to help those who are in need.

Every year Oprah donates millions of dollars to fund charities that are of personal interest to her. Oprah's Angel Network is a nonprofit, volunteer organization that inspires others to make a difference in the lives of others. It organizes projects in under-served communities and provides educational initiatives and helps people fulfill basic human needs and regain their dignity. Its focus is on poverty, child neglect and disease.

Also Hudson-King Foundation, founded by Jenifer Hudson family has done this charity center to care for the need of families who have lost relatives to a violent crime.

          In other words theses women’s are just example of the way the will of charity beyond fame and become an inspiring way to help others in need. 

    

Link: http://www.looktothestars.org/news/9562-essence-black-women-in-hollywood-the-power-of-our-presence

Unit 5 Longevity

      

       
       Okinawa is one of the most remarkable longevity hot spots in the world. The video above shows what people do in order to live long, have an active and work full lifestyle for example are some of the most important things they mentioned. Also has a healthy and balance nutritional diet is recommended to achieve well being. Low rates of cancer and sickness in Okinawan population it is a good indicator of the way they  take care of themselves.

      But and the other hand you can see how the globalization is affecting, especially, Okinawan new generations because they are eating a lot of fast food and putting aside cultural aspects that has guide the live of older people.

         Nicoya, Guanacaste it is also another longevity hot spot renamed in the word.

Discussion Board

Early to bed, early to rise, makes you healthy, wealthy and wise, is a short but a powerful phrase. In this aspect the connotation of each adjective is related to those who have the habit of going to sleep and get up early, benefits such as mental and psychological well-being, energy and knowledge. Also it is a common thinking that old people have. They believed that have a lifestyle like this may let others live longer and happier. In my opinion is a reasonable and verifiable philosophy, because when wake up early you have more time to organize you full day. Consequently if you plan correctly, you will rest enough and have all the vitality to carry on a very active day, and at the same time a responsible life by doing all your duties in a prudent period of time. However, nowadays even though most of the people are aware of the benefits of having a structured lifestyle is very regular to see an entirely wrong way doing things. A very common example is the nutritional habits. Everyone knows how important it is to have healthy nourishment, but a lot of people just do not care about and they consume exaggerate amount of junk food. Another related example is student’s habits in High School or University where frequently you find that they are irresponsible with their homework and assignments. However and the other hand, there are better rewards by applying the proverb early to bed, early to rise, makes you healthy, wealthy and wise.

Unit 4 Animal Intelligence

Animals are very interesting creatures that make our life happier in certain way. In case of domestic animals they are extremely friendly with you when your treat them kind. Also they makes you laugh, but at the same time they are very receptive and emotional so when you   are a ruff person  with them they understand that things are not right. They are so intelligent that they able to learn how share and care for their family.

Unit 3 "Early to bed, Early to Rise"

"Early to bed, early to rise, makes you healthy, wealthy and wise", is a very short but meaning phrase. Here is a video with some ideas about sleep importance that we can considerate.

Unit 2 "The Aquilles Heel"

This is an example of  how obstacles are only in our mind, somtimes people put a lot of excuses when they do not want to do things. But there is a short and truthful phrase we all sholud have in maind "Who wants to do something finds a way, who does not want to do anything finds excuses".

Do not give excuses!

Unit 1 "Information Overload"

The overload of media comunication affect our ability to absorb and process all the information to which we are exposed; Also it can cause “Information Fatigue Syndrome” (IFS) that characterize through poor concentration, hostility, falling into a trance-like state, burnout, and a compulsion to check email, voice mail, the Internet to stay connected.

 

Read more at :

http://www.wnd.com/2013/01/information-overload-making-your-head-explode/

Essay # 2 "Obstacles stay only in your mind"

Kalila Gittens • Sofía Garro • Glenda Moya

Obstacles stay only in your mind

Nowadays there are all kinds of people, but nobody is living happy. For someone life is very difficult and they complain about everything. This people do not imagine that there are others who have had accidents and their life has changed, because they have physical disabilities. Thereby, after certain people become a disable they way of seen life changes and they overcome all kind of obstacles even those they never try before. For that reason we believe that obstacles never exist if you develop your self-esteem, your perseverance and your courage.

Self-esteem is very important in your life, because, this is a component that improves your goals. If you do not have a high self-esteem, you do not have inspiration to get your dreams. Also, self esteem makes you believe that you are valuable and unique.  For this reason, you never give up, and because, of this, there are people who have a disability, but they have a beautiful life and never get angry or sad. These people have a high self-esteem and overcoming wish. On the other hand people who do not have any disability, always complains about everything; therefore, people that have disabilities, should be an example in your life.

Perseverance is the state of continued effort to do or achieve something and overcome difficulties encountered. It is also the attitude of dealing with the problems or weaknesses with courage. Perseverant people seek ways to overcome challenges and do not give up; this determination can be applied in all aspects of life, as shown in the video in class related to the “Achilees Track Club”. There where people with physical disabilities have been perseverance and have achieved important goals in sports and also be an active members of clubs that promote physical activity. Cleary, perseverance is one of the keys to keep going.

According to the free dictionary courage “is the state or quality of mind or spirit that enables one to face danger fear or vicissitudes with self-possession, confidence and resolution bravery”. In that case a person who has courage is someone that faces obstacles with open mind and patience. However, a person with low or no-courage will surrender very easily. These kinds of people feel that their life dot not have sense, because of the way they face problems. Therefore, to succeed in life people should be brave and try to develop their courage day by day.

All over the world you will find people with different physical disabilities due to various reasons such as accidents or birth problems. But fortunately these people are able to develop many other skills based on their positive attitude regardless of difficulties. Clubs and organizations like the “Achilles Track Club” promote recreation, physical activity and emotional health for disable people. Thank of the encouragement that people had received in those groups people thrive in different sports. As a matter of fact these people overcome live obstacles merit of their high self-esteem, perseverance and courage to move forward and become a good example for others.

Essay # 1 "Media Overwhelming"

Nowadays the use of media communication has become a need for everyone. At work, school or university, you have to deal with media tools. Some of the benefits of media area are that now you can communicate with family, friends and other people located across the world and also send or receive emails or money by just doing click. The problem that I find is that the excess or barrage of different types of advertisement overwhelms the audience. When a person is overwhelmed, you can find problems such as stress, media resisters and attention deficit disorders.

When we talk about stress, we may imagine a lot of things. But, according to the Medicine Net, stress is a “simply fact nature forces from the insider or outsider world affecting the individual” (Medicine Net, 2013). Basically the external factors include physical environment like your job, your relationships with others, your home, situations, challenges, difficulties and expectations you are facing daily. Internal factors determine your body’s ability to respond and deal with external factors which influence your ability to handle stress, including your nutritional status, health, fitness levels, emotional well being and the amount of sleep and rest you get. In summary, stress can alter all your body and in this cause we can considerate media overwhelming a cause of stress.

Another problem related to media overwhelming is news resisters. News resisters are the people that think the amount of advertisement news they received is bad. But, others are aware of the benefits of being well-informed regardless of this overwhelming. I think that to avoid becoming a news resister, media companies should take into account the audience opinion. Using tools as a survey can provide important information about the spectator’s interests and also you can find out what they believe about media overwhelming.

Another disadvantage or issue caused by media overwhelming is the attention deficit disorder. The Diagnostic and Statical Manual 4^th Edition (DSM-IV) indicates that the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a “persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that is more frequent and severe than typically observed in individuals comparable levels of development. ADHD manifestations may be subdivided in three types: 1 predominantly inattentive, 2 hyperactivity/ impulsivity and 3 combined type.  The rates indicate that 60% to 80% or patients diagnosed are children. In addition the overexposure to video games, television or internet can be some of the causes.

In my opinion, media overwhelming become a problem for people when they are not interested in receive certain information. And as a matter fact stress can easily impact our lives in many aspects as a result. Therefore news resisters demeanor is an understandable behavior for who feel assail with the exaggerated amount of advertisement on television, radio or internet. Consequently the ADHD it is affecting the new generations; and lot of kids has been diagnosed with this mental disorder. In general if we don’t care about this situation attention deficit may become a social problem. Finally, media companies and people should be conscious about media overwhelming causes and effects and try to have a balance between media overexposures.

Bibliography

Medicine Net (2013). What is stress?  Retrieved from http://www.medicinenet.com/stress/article.htm

Medicine Net (2013).  ADHD in teens. Retrieved from

http://www.medicinenet.com/attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder_in_teens/article.htm