Friday, July 31, 2020

Essay Structure

Essay Structure As you learn the English language, make a serious effort to practice your grammar and sentence structure. One way to spot improper grammar in your own writing is to read each sentence backwards . This friend can edit your essay and point out any repetitive errors. Learning to write in another language can be really difficult, especially when you’re first getting started; daily practice is helpful. Learning to write in another language can be really difficult, especially when you’re first getting started. If you want to write in another language, you need to practice in creative ways every day. For example, you could start a blog, create fun poems or text a friend. So instead of constantly saying, “Add the tomato” and “add the eggs,” a thesaurus will teach you to say things like “whisk in the eggs” or “gently fold in the tomatoes.” See? It sounds a lot better and adds interest to your essay. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. We also participate in other affiliate advertising programs for products and services we believe in. Learning a new language is certainly an ambitious task. There are so many small details to learn, and the process takes a lot of time and commitment. Lastly, there are some fantastic online resources that can help improve your writing. For instance,Hemingway Editorcan review your document to find any confusing or wordy sentences. You can rewrite these to make them easier to understand. Once you and your friend have both reviewed your essay and marked any mistakes, rewrite the whole thing. Taking this course will improve your scores on the IELTS, TOEFL, and other English tests - particularly the writing sections. The number of points that you make will depend on the word count (1500 words, 4-5 paragraphs). Secondly identify and highlight the instructional words. E.g. is the essay asking you to compare, justify, argue, discuss etc. Also underline the key words/ideas that have been used like workplace diversity, communication etc. First check the meaning of words in the question. Use a dictionary if there are any words that you are unfamiliar with. The assignments allow the students to take a proactive approach to applying the knowledge they have gained. Students wishing to improve their writing skills will definitely benefit from this course. It doesn’t need to be too colloquial, but using one or two informal constructions or words that characterize you as a person will help you create a smooth narrative. The time when one of your parents seriously impressed you. I have presented video lessons for various organizations and groups and taught individual lessons to students from around the world - often setting up programs specific to their needs. Although this course is not directly related to specific tests or exams, it will prepare learners for any test that requires clear and concise writing. Ron takes a very relaxed approach, providing students with all the tools they need to excel. Just noting that you made some mistakes will not help you learn how to avoid them in the future. If you don’t have any friends who are fluent in English, you can uselang-8.com. Lang-8 is a free site where native English speakers will correct your writing. In exchange, you correct the writing of someone learning your native language. For example, if you’re writing about cooking, the words “stir” and “add” might come up a lot. Is everything in the correct tense (past, present, future, etc.)? If you’re writing about plurals, are the possessive nouns plural? Does every sentence end with a punctuation mark ? Reading the text backwards make you focus on the rules of grammar instead of the flow of the sentence.

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Astrological Signs as Symbols in Grendel - Literature Essay Samples

In the novel Grendel, by John Gardner, the author associates each chapter with a different astrological sign, such as Aries, Gemini, and Sagittarius, not only to enhance the role of nature in the story, but also to better chronologize Grendel’s growth and retreat in his philosophical development. Furthermore, this designation even mimics that which he struggles to grasp: the knowledge of the continuation of the universe without him after his death, even though his world has come to an end. Beginning the novel with the first sign, Aries, Gardner introduces the stereotypical trait of cyclical thinking. The ram, which is the symbol for Aries, indicates another spring coming around, spurring Grendel to lash out as he finds himself trapped in an â€Å"endless progression of moon and stars† (p.5). Not only does the â€Å"cyclical† trait indicate that Grendel is frustrated with the never-ending loop he feels stuck in, but it also, along with the mention of â€Å"moon and stars†, clues the reader in to the use of the signs as a vehicle to communicate Grendel’s own cycle from existentialist on to empiricist on to nihilist and back once again. In other words, the affirmation that Grendel’s own existence is, in itself, the very circular, repetitive process that he abhors. The reader travels along with Grendel through his experiences and phases of philosophical thought. From him realizing that he â€Å"alone creates the universe, blink by blink† (p.22) after being attacked by the bull of Taurus— ushering in his stay in an existential mindset —to his head â€Å"splitting† (p.44) into dual realities under Gemini. That split within him— a creation of Geminis symbol, twins —is used to illustrate the fervor and inner turmoil he feels as he is torn between that newfound existentialism and the inviting lies of religion that the Shaper brings along. The Shaper, a harp-player who sings of a loving God to the Danes, the residents of young King Hrothgar’s mead hall, is a display as well of those quick-witted and smoothly eloquent Gemini traits that he utilizes to trap the subjects under the pleasant lies of a benevolent force that drives all things to happen for a reason; allowing the emotional humans to feel that their struggles are not in vain. Grendel, however, his cold and inhuman audience, becomes stuck somewhere between the notions of the inanimate, unfeeling universe he feels he has come to know and a fatherly, caring, Cancer-esque God painted by this man who nourishes and nurtures through false hope— what he finds he has the ability to want and be seduced by, just as the Danes do and can. Later on in the novel, when Grendel has accepted his role as â€Å"the Destroyer† (p. 72-73) and as a nihilist, both ideas presented to him by the Leo-likened Dragon, he initiates himself as such by wreaking havoc on the mead hall. During this attack, the reader suddenly finds themselves in a grave realization that Grendel’s life will soon end; a sudden deviation that yanks them away from their previous vantage point they shared with him. Under the sign of Sagittarius, whose image is an archer, Grendel sees a Scylding hunter fell a hart with a bow and arrow— foreshadowing his own fast-approaching demise. The demolition of his philosophical growth is also brought on as he stumbles upon the false priests who preach religion but practice nothing— representative of the centaur (the half-man, half-horse beast) who is the archer of Sagittarius. As Grendel unknowingly and uncaringly awaits the coming of the â€Å"water bearer† (p.151) of Pisces— the Geat Beowulf —that will ultimately end him, he observes as both his nihilistic mindset and his attraction to religion are ended by the quasi-priests being exposed. It is only when that sea-bearer comes and occupies Grendel’s self-centered, one-creature world, displaying the Piscean emphasis on connectedness within the universe that Grendel’s Aquarian individuality plays a stark contrast against, that he returns to exactly where he was when the story began. Once again finding himself as a helpless cog in the ever-churning world that he can choose to create within or be run by, he realizes that he can never escape until he is forced out by death, at that moment being administered gruesomely to him by Beowulf. Throughout the novel, Gardner provides symbols of the signs or traits of the signs to illustrate Grendel’s circular growth and regression in his views regarding the universe, but it is ultimately at his time of demise that provides a true representation the vicious cycle he battles and loses against ­Ã‚ ­Ã‚ ­Ã¢â‚¬â€ as we all do.

Saturday, May 16, 2020

Childhood Factors And Eating Disorders Symptoms Essay

Two studies were done about childhood factors and eating disorders symptoms. In the last two decades the prevalence of anorexia nervosa in South Korea has increased. The rate has increased from 0.03% in 1987 to 0.2 percent in 2007A study found that the Korean women with AN had higher levels of anxiety, perfectionism and an emotional childhood with a lower number of supportive figures compared to the healthy control group. The study supported ideas that personal vulnerability could be an important risk factor for developing anorexia nervosa. Children with perfectionism tendencies have one of the â€Å"setting conditions† (Heo Kang Kim Song Treasure, 2009), for developing anorexia nervosa in the Korean participants. Also people with parents who were perfectionist with regard to their children s shape and weight form the backbone for forming anxiety about shape and weight that was reported by the Korean women. â€Å"Premorbid anxiety is suspected to contribute an important gen etically medicated pathway towards developing of anorexia by way of heightening sensitivity to eating disorder systems† (Heo Kang Kim Song Treasure, 2009). Having more supportive figures during upbringing may cause people to form more resilient. The study concluded that there was a small difference between Korean and Western countries when it came to being teased about weight and shape, it has been found that the United States cultures put pressure on the thin ideal which is important risk forShow MoreRelatedRelationship Between Childhood Sexual Abuse And Eating Disorder Symptoms1635 Words   |  7 PagesBetween Childhood Sexual Abuse and Eating Disorder Symptoms Mallory Holt PSYC 401 Introduction Some studies have shown a correlation between physical, sexual and/or emotional abuse and eating disorders, but there appears to be no casual link. (Tripp, 2001). Between 30 to 50% of adult women report an unwanted sexual experience in either childhood or adulthood. This paper explores the connection between sexual abuse, specificity during childhood, and eating disorders. Eating disorders includeRead MoreEssay on Childhood Sexual Abuse and Eating Disorders1579 Words   |  7 PagesChildhood Sexual Abuse and Eating Disorders Recently, a great amount of psychological literature has focused on finding biological and genetic causes of mental illnesses and disorders, including eating disorders. However, according to recent twin studies, the heritability component of eating disorders may only account for 0% to 70% of the variance (Fairburn, Cowen, Harrison, 1999). The leaves an ample amount of room for speculation of possible environmental risk factors for eating disordersRead MorePsychological Disorders And Obsessive Compulsive Disorder1123 Words   |  5 PagesPsychological disorder or mental disorder is a mind imbalance involving behaviors, thoughts and emotions that cause significant distress to self or other. Great distress means that the person is unable to meet their needs, is a danger to himself and others, or the person is unable to function properly. 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According to Smith and Segal (2017), Anorexia nervosa can be defined as a serious eating disorder that results in unhealt hy, often dangerous weight loss. Although anorexia nervosa is more common in females than males, it typically affects both sexes, often developing during their teen years or young adulthood; however, it also can affect those in childhood and even later on in life (Eating Disorders: About More Than Food.). Read MoreEating Disorders Are Serious Mental Illnesses That Are Not A Choice1535 Words   |  7 PagesEating disorders are serious mental illnesses that are not a choice. Eating disorders can affect people of any age and are characterized by concerns with body weight and irregular eating habits. There are many different kinds of eating disorders, but the cause of them is not completely known. The symptoms of eating disorders include obsession with food, appearance, and weight. There are ways to cope with and treat eating disorders with the help of a therapist that is specially trained in eating disordersRead MoreBorderline Personality Disorder: A Literature Review Essay1589 Words   |  7 Pages The history of BPD can be traced back to 1938 when Adolph Stern first described the symptoms of the disorder as neither being psychotic nor psychoneurotic; hence, the term ‘borderline’ was introduced (National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health, 2009, p. 15). Then in 1960, Otto Kernberg coined the term ‘borderline personality organization’ to describe persistent patterns of behavior and functioning consisting of instability, and distressed psychological self-organization (National CollaboratingRead MoreEating Disorders And Anorexia Nervosa1152 Words   |  5 Pagespervasiveness of eating disorders, Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa, has risen notably amongst women in the Western World. Eating disorders (EDs) are mental disorders â€Å"characterized by a persistent disturbance of eating or eating-related behavior that results in the altered consumption or absorption of food and that significantly impairs physical health or psychosocial functioningâ €  (American Psychiatric Association (APA), 2013). The most well-known types of eating disorders are Anorexia and BulimiaRead MoreUnit 5 Essay1106 Words   |  5 Pages Part 1: Know about different eating disorders 1a. Describe at least two different eating disorders. Eating disorder 1: Bulimia Nervosa is a disorder characterised by consuming massive amount in calories in a form on binge eating and then getting rid of them through laxatives or vomiting. There may be social signs or psychological signs like social isolation. Eating disorder 2: Anorexia Nervosa is the most well-known and popular of eating disorders yet it is the least common. It is

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

The Definition of Poverty - 554 Words

Spicker Guizamen et al Gordon (2007) twelve clusters of meaning of poverty evidently proved how the definition of poverty seems difficult to be established, the debates on poverty have been bedeviled by an artificial formalism, which insists that there is only one agreed meaning of poverty. However poverty does not attract a single meaning. For him, poverty is commonly understood in at least twelve discrete senses, which are logically separated: The first meaning denotes poverty as a material concept: individuals are attributed as been poor because they do not have something they need or because they lack the resources to get the things they need; here ‘needs’ may refer to things like-food, clothing, fuel or shelter. These needs may be relative or absolute; however Hazzilt (1946) thinks that the sources and foundation of the needs are linked to different preferential wants. The second meaning denotes a pattern of Deprivation; every need can be said to be equivalent to been termed as poor. However there are several interpretations of what makes up been poor due to level of needs: food and shelter for some is seen more important than entertainments and transport, thus what they lack is relative as affirmed by SimmelJacobson (1965). Consequently Simmel (1965) thinks that the third meaning denotes poverty as li mitation of resources which is commonly known as the failure to meet certain minimum requirements for the standards of living. But the fourth meaning denotesShow MoreRelatedThe Definition of Poverty Essay644 Words   |  3 Pages What are the definitions of poor and poverty? Many people hear the words poverty and have different meanings, so how do we know which definition and I poor is the correct one? 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Poverty is being in a state of such lackRead MoreThe Definition Of Poverty On The Number Of Adults And Children1518 Words   |  7 PagesThe definition of poverty hinges on the number of adults and children in the family. Based on income in the United States in 2015, roughly, poverty lines as the weighted average poverty thresholds for family with one person, two people and three people, are 12,082, 15,391, and 18,871 dollars, respectively [1]. Poverty rate differs between race and Hispanic origin, age, and sex, disability status, and other societal characteristics, including immigration status, region, and work experience. The realRead MoreHow Has The Definition Of Poverty Changed Over Time?896 Words   |  4 PagesHow has the definition of poverty changed over time? The definition of poverty has changed overtime because it is defined in several ways. The basic needs perspective defines poverty â€Å"as the lack of resources to fulfill basic human needs including food, health, and education. The capabilities perspective defines poverty as the absence of opportunities to achieve capabilities to be sheltered, well nourished, adequately clothed, healthy, and active in the community† (Chapin, 2014, p.308). This perspectiveRead Moresociety poverty has various definitions that lack the true picture that poverty depicts. Dictionary500 Words   |  2 Pagessociety poverty has various definitions that lack the true picture that poverty depicts. Dictionary defines poverty as â€Å"the state of one who lacks a usual or socially acceptable amount of money on material possessions.† In other words poverty is a situation where a person fail to earn a sufficient amount of income to purchase basic necessities such as food, shelter, clothes etc. In reality, poverty is much more than the capital resources. According to Laster Brown explained poverty as â€Å"the worldRead MorePoverty Is A Global Concern And Its Eradication1376 Words   |  6 Pages Poverty is a global concern and its eradication is becoming surmountable. This is primarily due to the challenges posed by international and national causes respectively. Besides, the complexity of the phenomenon has not lend itself to be easily eradicated. Little wonder the world continues to struggle to eradicate poverty. Africa is one of the poorest countries on the universe and research and data show that Sierra Leone is one of the poorest countries in Sub-Sahara (UNDP, 2015). Sierra Leone’sRead MorePoverty and Destitution1299 Words   |  6 PagesDefining Poverty Poverty has been defined in many different ways. Some attempt to reduce it to numbers, while others believe that a more vague definition must be used. In the end, a combination of both methods is best. DiNitto and Cummins (2007), in their book â€Å"Social Welfare, Politics and Public Policy,† present six definitions and explanations of poverty. Social reformers Webb and Webb (1911) present another angle on poverty. Essentially, all definitions are correct, the debate is of whichRead MorePoverty Is A Problem That Affects Millions Of People On A Daily Basis1387 Words   |  6 PagesPoverty is a problem that affects millions of people on a daily basis. It is a topic that has been highly debated for many years in politics, between academics and with regular people. The problem that is debated is how to define it, how it should measure and who should be able to dictate these things. A broad definition of poverty is â€Å"the state of having little or no money, goods, or the means of support† (http://dictionary.reference.com). Poverty can be said to have many different definitions butRead MorePovertyin the World811 Words   |  3 PagesPoverty evokes various definitions depending on the audience and perhaps the purpose or context that it is used. Limiting the definition of poverty to a ‘value judgment’ is of little use in terms of agreeing on a definition for the purpose of comparison and measurement between groups (Sen 1979, p.285). A clear definition of poverty supports and indicates the process for measurement, and as such would also assist in determining the focus and approach for development (Clark 2012; Ruggeri, Saith Read MoreThe Cause And Causes Of Poverty1325 Words   |  6 Pagesissue of poverty. According to the Business dictionary, poverty is a â€Å"Condition where people s basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter are not being met†. Due to the serious effects and causes of poverty, it has always been an imp ortant issue throughout the world. 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Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Relevant Quantitative and Quantitative Factors

Qustion: Discuss about the Relevant Quantitative and Quantitative Factors. Answer: Introduction The evaluation of stock for investment purpose needs to be performed by considering the relevant quantitative and quantitative factors. The quantitative analysis for a stock tends to consider the financial statements using tools such as ratio analysis and trend analysis. The qualitative factors tend to instead focus on the innate lucrativeness of the business model in terms of not only profitability but also scalability along with the market share and brand value. Further, the above information needs to be analysed keeping into mind the corresponding performance of the peer group. This report aims to review the relevant qualitative and quantitative parameters concerned with Woolworths performance in the last five years so as to recommend whether an investor should invest in the stock or not. Besides, the report also computes the valuation of the Woolworths stock using the given information to conclude if the stock is overpriced or underpriced. Qualitative Analysis Company Overview The organised retail segment in Australia is dominated by Woolworths which along with Coles has converted the supermarket industry into a virtual duopoly as is evident from the figure listed below. The Woolworths group is a diversified group with interests across multiple businesses such as hotels, fuels, home improvement even though majority of the revenue is contributed by the supermarkets business. Over the years, the company has grown through the acquisition route that has expanded the business of the company into niche segments and given rise to a conglomerate. The group is based in Australia with a presence of about 950 stores spread all over. Besides Australia, the group has sizable market share in the organised retail market in New Zealand. Moreover, the company has small presence in various international markets such as Hong Kong, UK, South Africa and India (Woolworths, 2013). With the coming ot various discount retailers particular Aldi, the market share of the company has fallen and may decline further in the times ahead. This decline may be worsened by the persistent weakness in the trading environment where the discount retailers may be favoured by the customer (Mi tchell, 2015). Recent movement in stock price The performance of the Woolworths stock price over the last one year is captured in the graph below (Yahoo Finance, 2016). It is clear from the graph on display above that the stock price has undergo a significant decline of about 25% in the period under consideration. It is apparent that the stock has performed worse than the broad market index. However, the trading environment in Australia continues to be weak which is a worrisome sign for the stock. Also, competition from German discount retailers is an issue for the company which may keep the price subdued in the near future despite correction. Hence, unless the market fundamentals undergo significant improvement, a sustained upside on the stock may not materialise. Quantitative Analysis As highlighted above, the quantitative analysis of Woolworths would include take into consideration the financial statements from FY2011 to FY2015 and for the given period perform the following. Trend Analysis i.e. both Horizontal and Vertical Analysis Ratio analysis using key ratios Trend Analysis Horizontal Analysis The analysis of the various key trends based on the horizontal analysis shown in the Appendix 1 is given below. Revenue The revenue of the group has registered a steady rise from FY2011 onwards till FY2014. However, the trend is reversed in FY2015 as there has been slight decline in total revenue. This is caused by the drop in fuel sales which have seen a drop in both prices and associated volumes. The sales in volume terms were lesser owing to Caltex Alliance arrangement alliance which was put in place in Q2, 2015. However, if the sales from fuel are excluded, then the sales even in FY2015 have registered a slight increase of 2.5% despite the competition from discount retailers and unfavourable market conditions (Woolworths, 2015). Gross Profits The companys gross profits have enhanced over the years primarily due to the steady increase in the revenues along with the improvement in the profit margins at the gross level achieved through improvement in processes and savings in purchases. Net profit During the year FY2012, there was a decline in the net profit caused due to discontinued operations which attracted a loss to the tune of $ 366 million (Woolworths, 2012). However, during the next two years the net profits rose on account of better operating margins caused due to lower operational costs along with keeping the employee costs under check. However, the net profits in FY2015 have suffered a decline caused due to a hike in the operating expenses caused due to higher superannuation costs related with employees along with increased wage bill (Woolworths, 2015). Interest Expenses The companys interest expenses displayed an upward trend but these reached their peak level in FY2013. After FY2013, there has been a sizable decrease in the interest costs caused due to the decline in the overall debt level particularly long term (Woolworths, 2015). Short term debt and long term debt From the relevant data on the debt levels, it is clear that the company intends to lower the long term loans and enhance the short term debt if required. The decrease in long term borrowing is indicative of falling investment by the company for setting up new stores in Australia and elsewhere. Further, the short term borrowing is on the rise due to the higher working capital needs for the company (Woolworths, 2015). Inventory There has been a slight decrease in the inventory levels at the end of FY2012 but ever since the inventory level is on the rise which is not a positive sign for the company as it indicates that the demand for the companys products is weak. This is an ongoing issue for the business as has also been pointed by the Chairman in the annual report. Shareholders equity The shareholders equity has shown a steady rise in the period under consideration which has been brought about by the rise in the retained profits on account of the net profits made in each financial year. Another additional factor contributing to this trend is the rise in paid capital of the group. Vertical Analysis The analysis of the various key trends based on the horizontal analysis shown in the Appendix 1 is given below. Gross profit margins The companys profitability margins on gross level have shown steady improvement over the period under consideration. This is apparent from the fact that even in FY2015, despite the falling profits margins in fuel and weak macroeconomic climate, the company was successful in improving the margins by 12 bps (Woolworths, 2015). Operating expenses The operating expenses expressed as revenue percentage is on the rise and the situation has worsened tremendously in FY2015 when there has been substantial increase in the operating expenses which has led to a dip in the net profit margins to the tune of 91 bps. Clearly, there is a need to atleast stem this trend in the near future and reverse this in the medium term as trading environment improves (Woolworths, 2015). Receivables The receivables as a percentage of total assets has witnessed a declining trend. This trend was not obeyed only in FY2013 when this percentage actually witnessed an increase. The decreasing contribution of the receivables is a positive signal for the company and augers well for reducing the overall cash cycle since it ensures that the company is able to generate cash from the sales on a regular basis without unnecessary details that can prove to be disruptive for the companys short term liquidity (Woolworths, 2011; 2012; 2013; 2014; 2015). Current liabilities The current liabilities expressed as a percentage of the total liabilities and shareholders equity has witnessed a declining trend. This may be attributed to the continuous increase in the overall equity due to retained profits and fresh equity capital which has exceeded the percentage growth in the current liabilities (Woolworths, 2011; 2012; 2013; 2014; 2015). Ratio Analysis The significant ratios considered for the analysis of Woolworths have been summarised in the Appendix 2. The implications of these with regards to the companys performance are stated below. Current Ratio During the period from FY2011 to FY2014, the current ratio experienced improvement while it witnessed a decline in FY2015. This decrease can be explained due to rise in the short term debt by around $ 1.4 billion at the FY2015 end compared to the corresponding year end in FY2014 (Woolworths, 2015). The current ratio is significant and is indicative of the short term liquidity which is pivotal in case of organised retail. A concerning trend for the company is that inventory contributes almost 60% of the total current assets and hence liquid assets such as cash comprise a small portion of current assets. Hence, it is likely that in the near term, a short term liquidity crisis may develop if the business climate does not show any improvement (Brealey, Myers Allen, 2008). The companys major competitor i.e. Wesfarmers boasts of a higher current ratio which lies in the vicinity of 1.1 to 1.5. As a result, it is apparent that the company requires improvement in this respect (Morningstar, 2 015). Price/Earnings Ratio The trend with regards to P/E ratio has been mixed since there was an increase during the period FY2011 to FY2013 but the trend reversed for the period FY2014 to FY2015. The rise in P/E ratio at the end of FY2012 was caused mainly due to EPS decline caused by heavy losses on the back of discontinued operations (Woolworths, 2012). There was an improvement in the P/E ratio in the subsequent year due to outperformance by the company which was extended to the next year i.e. FY2014. However, in the next year i.e. FY2015, the performance dipped significantly which is reflected in the form of reduced EPS and hence led to a decline in the P/E ratio. The P/E ratio for the industry is pegged at 21 and hence it is evident that the company is given lower valuations which may be explained due to the diversified nature of the business which is held as a single company. However, this explanation may not be accurate since Wesfarmers has a higher P/E as compared to Woolworths even though it is more d iversified than Woolworths. This indicates underperformance by the Woolworths stock during the preceding two years (Morningstar, 2015). Net Profit Margin Ratio There is no uniform trend with regards to the ratio indicating the net profit margin. The net profit margin witnessed a decline during FY2012 caused due to discontinued operations and the resulting loss of $ 366 million. However, the performance with regard to net profits improved during both FY2013 and FY2014 due to better than expected gross margins even though the operational expenses continued to remain constant. The net profit margins have dropped by almost 50 bps during FY2015. This may be explained on the back of higher operational expenses particularly related to employee salaries and associated benefits (Woolworths, 2015). The drop in margins for fuel also had an adverse effect on profitability during FY2015. However, the net profit ratio for the company is in accordance with the industry standards which is estimated around 3.75%-4.25% (Morningstar, 2015). Return on total assets (ROA) Besides two years namely FY2012 and FY2015, the ROA has continued to remain constant during the period under consideration. The FY2012 decline in ROA was not disconcerting from the investor perspective as it was driven by loss arising from discontinued operations. But the same cannot be concluded for the dip in ROA in FY2015 which is driven by a decline in the net income to the tune of $ 300 million (Woolworths, 2015). Additionally, continued competition from discount retailers and weak demand would continue to exert downward pressure on ROA which is not favourable from the investor perspective (Brealey, Myers Allen, 2008). Debt ratio The contribution of debt to the total assets has continued from FY2011 till FY2014 which is favourable for the company. But this trend has reversed in FY2015 due to the rise in short term borrowing to the tune of $ 1.4 billion (Woolworths, 2015). This surge in current borrowing can be attributed to weak trading environment where the demand is weak and hence the working capital requirement is larger. Even though there has been a decline in the debt ratio, but still there are no long term liquidity issues that the company faces (Brealey, Myers Allen, 2008). Interest Coverage Ratio Based on the computed values, it is apparent that the interest coverage had improved in FY2012 as compared to the previous year before deteriorating in FY2013 primarily on account of the surge in interest expenses. However, post FY2013, there is a decline in the overall debt level which is reflected in the form of lower interest cost. This is responsible for the improvement in the interest coverage in FY2014 but the ratio has declined in FY2015 due to dip in the EBIT (Woolworths, 2015). Despite this, the interest coverage continues to stay healthy and hence the company does not face much risk of default on interest payment in the near future (Brealey, Myers Allen, 2008). Recommendation The review of the quantitative and qualitative parameters carried out above indicates that it is not prudent to invest in the Woolworths stock at the present time. This is despite the fact that the stock has corrected by about 25% over the last year and may seek a value buy. However, the chances of a recovery in the stock seem slim till the time there is definite improvement in the trading environment which does not look certain in the present. However, one of the limitations of the previous analysis is that it is based on historical performance and hence the future performance may be significantly different from the past performance. But currently, it seems highly unlikely. Stock valuation The Gordon dividend model is deployed for ascertaining the intrinsic price of the Woolworths stock (Damodaran, 2008). Woolworths fair price = Next year dividend/ (Return required Constant growth of dividends) Return required on the stock = 9% pa Constant growth rate of dividend = 4% pa Dividend paid by Woolworth per share in 2015 = 1.0286 + 0.957 = $ 1.9856 Expected dividend per share in 2016 = 1.9856 * 1.04 = Hence, dividends paid next year = 1.9856 * 1.05 = $ 2.065 Woolworth stock price = 2.065/(0.09-0.04) = $ 41.3 Since the Woolworth stock is currently trading at $ 21.7, hence it is evident that the stock currently is highly underpriced. The aberration in valuation can be explained on the basis of the expectations with regards to dividend growth from the investor perspective which may be considerably lower than 4% considering the lacklustre performance in FY2015. Further, it is also possible that the stock is oversold due to negative sentiments associated with the retail sector at the present. References Brealey, R, Myers, S Allen, F 2008, Principles of Corporate Finance, 9th edn, McGraw Hill Publications, New YorkDamodaran, A 2008, Corporate Finance, 3rd edn, Wiley Publications, LondonMitchell, S 2015, Coles, Woolworths, IGA to lose market share to Aldi, David Jones, says Moody's, The Sydney Morning Herald, Available online from https://www.smh.com.au/business/retail/coles-woolworths-iga-to-lose-market-share-to-aldi-david-jones-says-moodys-20150813-giy6x0.html (Accessed on July 14, 2016)Morningstar 2015, Woolworths Ltd, Morningstar Limited, Available online from https://financials.morningstar.com/valuation/price-ratio.html?t=WOLWFregion=usaculture=en-US (Accessed on July 14, 2016) Woolworths 2011. Annual Report 2011, Woolworths Limited, Available online from https://www.woolworthslimited.com.au/icms_docs/129899_Annual_Report_2011.pdf (Accessed on July 14, 2016) Woolworths 2012. Annual Report 2012, Woolworths Limited, Available online from https://www.woolworthslimited.com.au/annualreport/2012/ (Accessed on July 14, 2016) Woolworths 2013. Annual Report 2013, Woolworths Limited, Available online from https://www.woolworthslimited.com.au/icms_docs/137198_Annual_Report_2013.pdf (Accessed on July 14, 2016) Woolworths 2014. Annual Report 2014,Woolworths Limited, Available online from https://www.woolworthslimited.com.au/annualreport/2014/index.html (Accessed on July 14, 2016) Woolworths 2015. Annual Report 2015, Woolworths Limited, Available online from https://www.woolworthslimited.com.au/icms_docs/182381_Annual_Report_2015.pdf (Accessed on July 14, 2016) Yahoo Finance 2016, Woolworths Ltd (WOW.AX), Yahoo Finance, Available online from https://au.finance.yahoo.com/echarts?s=WOW.AX (Accessed on July 14, 2016)

Saturday, April 18, 2020

Sexual Harassment Research Paper Essay Example

Sexual Harassment Research Paper Essay The sexual harassment refers to situations in which one or more persons are subject (usually repeatedly) to verbal or physical activity, aiming to reduce their sexual identity without considering such activity as a criminal offense. Victims are usually employees subject to the â€Å"whims† of their colleagues or superiors. It also means solicitations for sexual favors at work under penalty. On the other hand, theoretically casting couch, when a woman or a man, use their charms hoping to move up the hierarchy is not considered a sexual harassment situation, since in this case there is a mutual consent. In practice, the existence of sexual relationship is easy to prove, however, there is much less initiative to do so. In addition, the fact that a supervisor gives hierarchic promotions based on personal benefit he derives, either in cash or in sexual favors, is in itself at least gross negligence on his part and possibly a crime. We will write a custom essay sample on Sexual Harassment Research Paper specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Sexual Harassment Research Paper specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Sexual Harassment Research Paper specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The term sexual harassment in the workplace refers to a sexual discrimination based on gender, perceived as intrusive by the victims and as undermining their dignity. As part of sexual harassment activity we can consider derogatory and equivocal comments on the appearance of a woman or a man, sexist remarks about sexual characteristics, sexual behavior or sexual orientation, unwanted physical contact, presenting pornography and sexual abuse, sexual coercion and rape. A survey conducted in 2007 at the national level reveals that 28 percent of women and 10 percent of men interviewed have been victims of sexual harassment or the target of similar conduct in their professional life. Three quarters of these women, the perpetrators were men, who generally acted alone but sometimes in groups. They also frequently report having been the target of mixed groups (men and women), but rarely women. The men were in about half the cases harassed by men (individuals or groups) in about one quarter of women in the last quarter and by mixed groups. The most part of culprits is co-workers, and often customer. Line managers are the third most numerous group. Women report more frequently than men to have been bothered by superiors. If you are planning to write a successful researcher proposal on sexual harassment, you may be interested in using free example research papers on different topics. There free sample topics can be used as an example of research paper writing and are capable of showing the procedure of prepapering, outlining, structuring and composing of a proper scientific article. When properly written by experienced professional, they can be of a great assistance for the beginners having small or no experience in research paper writing. You will find free example research paper without any difficulty on the Internet, where they are in quantity. At EssayLib.com writing service you can order a custom research paper on Sexual Harassment topics. Your research paper will be written from scratch. We hire top-rated Ph.D. and Master’s writers only to provide students with professional research paper assistance at affordable rates. Each customer will get a non-plagiarized paper with timely delivery. Just visit our website and fill in the order form with all research paper details: Enjoy our professional research paper writing service!

Saturday, March 14, 2020

Idioms for Fabric and Other Materials

Idioms for Fabric and Other Materials Idioms for Fabric and Other Materials Idioms for Fabric and Other Materials By Mark Nichol Words for various materials used in clothing have been applied to various descriptive terms and idiomatic expressions, including those described below. Cotton-picking is a euphemism to express anger or frustration. To cotton to something is to take a liking to it or to come to an understanding of it (the phrasing can also be â€Å"cotton on to†), and to cotton up to someone is to flatter. Meanwhile, to be in high or tall cotton is to be successful (from the notion of a cotton planter walking among large plants). Dyed-in-the-wool is an adjective meaning â€Å"set in one’s ways,† from the practice of dying wool fibers before they are spun into thread so that the dye is more durable. To pull the wool over someone’s eyes (a reference to a wig made of wool) is to deceive them, to wrap them up in cotton wool is to be overprotective (with the connotation of swaddling someone as if they were a baby), and to live in cotton wool is to live a protected life. To woolgather, meanwhile, is to daydream; the idiom stems from the seemingly aimless act of collecting bits of wool on bushes and fences. â€Å"All wool and a yard wide† and â€Å"all wool and no shoddy† both denote an honorable person or something of high quality. Various other expressions including wool, including â€Å"all cry and no wool† â€Å"great cry and little wool,† and â€Å"more cry than wool,† allude to much attention given to something of little significance. â€Å"Go hell for leather† or â€Å"go hell-bent for leather† means â€Å"act quickly† or â€Å"act recklessly.† (The leather in question originally referred to a saddle, with the notion of riding a horse quickly or recklessly.) â€Å"Tough as (shoe) leather† refers figuratively to physical fortitude or literally to something resembling leather, as a cut of meat. Leathery may describe something akin to leather in appearance or texture, as to skin roughened by exposure to the elements, and someone who is leather lunged has a very loud or strong voice, while the phrase â€Å"as ever trod shoe leather† is a more colorful way of saying â€Å"as ever lived† or â€Å"as ever walked the earth† following a compliment (or denigrating remark) in order to intensify it. Lacy describes something resembling lace, such as a dew-drenched spider web or a delicate coating. To lace is not only to thread or trim but also to add a color, flavor, or other quality to something or otherwise enhance it. Silky describes fluid or smooth movement or texture, and â€Å"smooth as silk† describes something or someone delicate in demeanor or texture. The expression â€Å"You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear† means that something refined cannot be produced from rough materials, while â€Å"silk-stocking district† connotes an affluent neighborhood, from the fact that at one time, only the wealthy could afford such items. To hit the silk, meanwhile, is to parachute from an airplane (an allusion to the material used for the parachute). Satiny also suggests smoothness. Meanwhile, the smooth, plush texture of velvet, which is made of one of several fabrics, is suggested with the adjective velvety. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Vocabulary category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:100 Idioms About NumbersGrammar Quiz #21: Restrictive and Nonrestrictive ClausesSit vs. Set