The writer, Sabrina Tavernase, writes about people going against painkillers. First, she describes what has happened on last Friday: Food and Drug Administration has voted to make restrictions on painkillers like Vicodin that contain hydrocodone. Then he goes on by describing the FDA's recommendation in more details, which would limit access to these drugs. In addition to that, he also explains the readers, the seriousness of the drugs. They take the lives of more Americans than other drugs like heroin and cocaine. However, many people go against this change due to the strong pain that will be caused on the sick people, especially in rural areas. Then to end her article, the writer writes about Senator Joe Manchin III, a Democrat from West Virginia, which is a state that has been hit hard by the prescription drug epidemic. He supports a tougher restriction, and says: “For under-age children, these drugs are easier to get than beer or cigarettes.”
The purpose of this article is to inform the readers about the PDA's vote against the painkillers that is considered worse than some other drugs. Besides that, by informing the readers about this seriousness, she wants to persuade them to also go against these painkillers that are so common nowadays. By describing some bad results of these drugs, and also by mentioning about the support of some experts and famous people such as the Senator Joe Manchin, she succeeds in adding credibility to her argument and persuasion.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
21. Scores Dead as Fire Sweeps Through Nightclub in Brazil
In this article, Simon Romero writes about an incident in Rio de Janeiro, where hundreds of people were by dead by fire. First, the writer draws the readers' attention by describing the incident in more details and by mentioning the number of dead brazilians: at least 245. Then he goes on by describing the place in which the fire took place, nightclub called Kiss with hundreds of university students. To give the readers more credibility, he mentions some interviews with the people that were present when the incident took place. For example, he quotes Ezequiel Corte Real, a 23-year-old survivor who said that he survived only because he is strong, and also Aline Santos Silva, who said that the fire spred quickly. To end his article, Romero writes about the huge impact that the incident had on the country. President Dilma canceled her schedule to travel to Rio de Janeiro, and many news and photographies about the incident were presented to the country.
The purpose of the article was simply to inform the readers about the fire incident that took place in Rio de Janeiro which killed almost 250 people. The writer wanted to inform them that this incident made a huge impact on the country and people in it. It was a shock not only to the family of the victims but also to the rest of the country who became aware of what happened. Romero does a good job in informing and gaining credibility not only through his diction and syntax, but also through some strategies (numbers), well described details, and interviews with some victims.
The purpose of the article was simply to inform the readers about the fire incident that took place in Rio de Janeiro which killed almost 250 people. The writer wanted to inform them that this incident made a huge impact on the country and people in it. It was a shock not only to the family of the victims but also to the rest of the country who became aware of what happened. Romero does a good job in informing and gaining credibility not only through his diction and syntax, but also through some strategies (numbers), well described details, and interviews with some victims.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
20. Mixing, Matching and Charging Less for a Phone Plan
In this article, Randall Stross writes about a phone plan in which a person can use his/her smartphone with unlimited calls, unlimited texting, unlimited data and no contract. First, to draw the readers' attention, the writer begins with a question emphasizing that by paying only $19 a month, one can have unlimited calls, texting, and data. Then he continues by writing about his personal experience with the phone plane. When he first saw the offer, he was amazed, since the company delivered exactly what it advertises. He tells how it is amazing to spend little money and be able to be connected to internet, either at home or at work. Then he ends the essay by some experts' justification of why internet accessing without Wifi is getting chaper and cheaper: they do not want people to use Wifi, because "You will soon realize you shouldn’t have to pay what you’re paying today.”
The essay, at first, seemed to be a propaganda, an advertisement, since the writer wrote about his amazement at the low price of the unlimited call, texting, data, and internet. However, later on, it seemed to inform the readers of why the phone companies are offering the public such good plan in such a low price. In addition to that, another purpose is to inform the readers about the purpose of these phone companies in offering these cheap phone plans. By offering this cheap plan to the people, the workers at phone companies are thinking ahead of the time, predicting what is going to happen, and preventing people from realizing that Wifi is going to be anywhere in the future and they will not need to pay.
The essay, at first, seemed to be a propaganda, an advertisement, since the writer wrote about his amazement at the low price of the unlimited call, texting, data, and internet. However, later on, it seemed to inform the readers of why the phone companies are offering the public such good plan in such a low price. In addition to that, another purpose is to inform the readers about the purpose of these phone companies in offering these cheap phone plans. By offering this cheap plan to the people, the workers at phone companies are thinking ahead of the time, predicting what is going to happen, and preventing people from realizing that Wifi is going to be anywhere in the future and they will not need to pay.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
22. "Research to Resume on Modified, Deadlier Bird Flu"
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/24/health/research-on-deadly-bird-flu-to-resume-after-safety-debate.html?ref=health
Denise Grady wrote an article to New York Times on January 23. Scientists have started up experiments on a deadly flu virus. Two groups, one in the United States and one in Switzerland, changed this flu virus a little to make mammals more contagious to it. However, they have to pause their research because the United States is creating new rules and most of the researchers get their money from them. Scientists are becoming angry and no longer patient. So they will continue their researches in countries that allow them to such as China and Canada. This virus goes by the name of H5N1 is very hard to infect, however when it does it kills almost every time. So this is a very important research that needs to be done and the scientists need to be careful to not let it get out of their laboratory or in the hands of dangerous people.
The reason Grady wrote this article was to show the readers what is happening right now in the science world. She is providing us with good and detailed information to understand exactly what is going on with this virus that can become very dangerous if not handled properly and with the right people. She also quotes people from different ends of this research. The scientist who believe it shouldn't go on and the scientists who want to continue this research which gives the reader enough information to see which side he would be on.
Denise Grady wrote an article to New York Times on January 23. Scientists have started up experiments on a deadly flu virus. Two groups, one in the United States and one in Switzerland, changed this flu virus a little to make mammals more contagious to it. However, they have to pause their research because the United States is creating new rules and most of the researchers get their money from them. Scientists are becoming angry and no longer patient. So they will continue their researches in countries that allow them to such as China and Canada. This virus goes by the name of H5N1 is very hard to infect, however when it does it kills almost every time. So this is a very important research that needs to be done and the scientists need to be careful to not let it get out of their laboratory or in the hands of dangerous people.
The reason Grady wrote this article was to show the readers what is happening right now in the science world. She is providing us with good and detailed information to understand exactly what is going on with this virus that can become very dangerous if not handled properly and with the right people. She also quotes people from different ends of this research. The scientist who believe it shouldn't go on and the scientists who want to continue this research which gives the reader enough information to see which side he would be on.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
21. "For Rape Victims in India, Police Are Often Part of the Problem"
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/23/world/asia/for-rape-victims-in-india-police-are-often-part-of-the-problem.html?hp&_r=0
Gardiner Harris writes an article about how the police are usually a part of rape in India. There have been many reported cases in New Delhi about rape. One specific case that Harris talks about dealt with a police officer. Many people believe that the police in New Delhi should not be allowed to deal with cases that involve women. They often end up being unfair. Also, the police make very little money, work in somewhat considered bad conditions, and are poorly organized. That is why if you are looking for justice but are poor, you end up being ignored because the police officers depend heavily on bribes from the rich people. Last year there was more than 600 rape accusations, and only one person was sent to prison. The police of India are not considered to be trusted.
Harris uses this article to show awareness on the serious happenings in New Delhi, India. It is becoming a bigger deal, and Harris does a good job of portraying it. Harris provides the reader with many examples of young women who have gone through such things. Along with many examples, Harris also includes many quotes in his article to show what the country is dealing with when it relates to police officers.
Gardiner Harris writes an article about how the police are usually a part of rape in India. There have been many reported cases in New Delhi about rape. One specific case that Harris talks about dealt with a police officer. Many people believe that the police in New Delhi should not be allowed to deal with cases that involve women. They often end up being unfair. Also, the police make very little money, work in somewhat considered bad conditions, and are poorly organized. That is why if you are looking for justice but are poor, you end up being ignored because the police officers depend heavily on bribes from the rich people. Last year there was more than 600 rape accusations, and only one person was sent to prison. The police of India are not considered to be trusted.
Harris uses this article to show awareness on the serious happenings in New Delhi, India. It is becoming a bigger deal, and Harris does a good job of portraying it. Harris provides the reader with many examples of young women who have gone through such things. Along with many examples, Harris also includes many quotes in his article to show what the country is dealing with when it relates to police officers.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
22. Bolivian lawmaker caught on video allegedly raping an unconscious woman
http://www.salon.com/2013/01/18/bolivian_lawmaker_caught_on_video_allegedly_raping_an_unconscious_woman/
Katie McDonough writes to the Salon on the horrible happening recently occurred in Bolivia. She opens the article by informing the reader details on the happening. The author tells the reader about how Domingo Alcibia Rivera was caught on camera assaulting an unconsciouss woman on the parliament floor. She shows how horrible the act was by narrating how when the lights were back on, he simply sat the woman on a chair beside him and acted as nothing happened. McDonough closes the article by telling the man's current sentence and about the movements in Bolivia to stop violence against woman.
McDonough's purpose through this article is to inform the reader and to bring awareness to the cause. She does so by stating the horrible conditions in which the assault occurred and by displaying a video of the assault in order to impress the reader and shock him, creating a sense of awareness. The author also displays a video of the measures taken to stop this horrible situation and the president's action towards it.
Katie McDonough writes to the Salon on the horrible happening recently occurred in Bolivia. She opens the article by informing the reader details on the happening. The author tells the reader about how Domingo Alcibia Rivera was caught on camera assaulting an unconsciouss woman on the parliament floor. She shows how horrible the act was by narrating how when the lights were back on, he simply sat the woman on a chair beside him and acted as nothing happened. McDonough closes the article by telling the man's current sentence and about the movements in Bolivia to stop violence against woman.
McDonough's purpose through this article is to inform the reader and to bring awareness to the cause. She does so by stating the horrible conditions in which the assault occurred and by displaying a video of the assault in order to impress the reader and shock him, creating a sense of awareness. The author also displays a video of the measures taken to stop this horrible situation and the president's action towards it.
21. My year of heroin and acne
http://www.salon.com/2013/01/05/my_year_of_heroin_and_acne/
Chloe Caldwell writes to the Salon on January 4th over her personal issues with both acne and heroine. Her article functions as a chronological anecdote. The first thing she talks about it's about her decision: whenever she decided to quit doing heroine, she'd do a pedicure. She flashbacks to her high school years and how she didn't have any problems with acne at all, not a single blemish on her face. She continues to tell her story and tells the reader about how, years later, her problems with acne started to occur. Her skin got so bad that all that would make her feel better was heroine. Her best friend K would support her and understand what she was going through, as she went to the same problems herself. The dark, twisted feelings present during this time are mentioned, filling the story with a depressed tone. Her struggle continues. The acne makes her feel horrible, the heroine makes her feel better, heroine makes her skin worse, acne comes up to make her feel even uglier than before, causing her to get more heroine to feel better and so on. Caldwell explains her former life as a depressed cycle. She mentions several occasion involving her family where she decided she'd quit, but couldn't. The final point was when heroine was no longer making her feel better due to her high tolerance; the only option would be to shoot it, and she decided that'd be going too far. She closes the article by saying her skin is gradually getting better and she's now in therapy, gradually feeling better too.
Caldwell's intentions in this article is to discourage the reader to enter into this deppressing and negative world of drugs. She uses her personal experiences to persuade the reader: vivid descriptions of all the hatred and anger she felt toward herself and others and the feeling of never ending suffering are enough to make the reader second doubt the "awesome" effects of drugs. She uses details and appeals strongly to emotion. The author's purpose is achieved as her story conveys all the pain and harshness she went through.
Chloe Caldwell writes to the Salon on January 4th over her personal issues with both acne and heroine. Her article functions as a chronological anecdote. The first thing she talks about it's about her decision: whenever she decided to quit doing heroine, she'd do a pedicure. She flashbacks to her high school years and how she didn't have any problems with acne at all, not a single blemish on her face. She continues to tell her story and tells the reader about how, years later, her problems with acne started to occur. Her skin got so bad that all that would make her feel better was heroine. Her best friend K would support her and understand what she was going through, as she went to the same problems herself. The dark, twisted feelings present during this time are mentioned, filling the story with a depressed tone. Her struggle continues. The acne makes her feel horrible, the heroine makes her feel better, heroine makes her skin worse, acne comes up to make her feel even uglier than before, causing her to get more heroine to feel better and so on. Caldwell explains her former life as a depressed cycle. She mentions several occasion involving her family where she decided she'd quit, but couldn't. The final point was when heroine was no longer making her feel better due to her high tolerance; the only option would be to shoot it, and she decided that'd be going too far. She closes the article by saying her skin is gradually getting better and she's now in therapy, gradually feeling better too.
Caldwell's intentions in this article is to discourage the reader to enter into this deppressing and negative world of drugs. She uses her personal experiences to persuade the reader: vivid descriptions of all the hatred and anger she felt toward herself and others and the feeling of never ending suffering are enough to make the reader second doubt the "awesome" effects of drugs. She uses details and appeals strongly to emotion. The author's purpose is achieved as her story conveys all the pain and harshness she went through.
20. Chick lit may be hazardous to your health
http://www.salon.com/2013/01/19/chick_lit_may_be_hazardous_to_your_health/
On January 19th, Tom Jacobs writes to the Pacific Standard about the possible negative effects the genre "chick flick" might inflict upon its readers. He starts the article by setting an analogy between the praised femine genre and other media standards, mentioning a well-known ground of how violent video games and sexually aggressive song lyrics impact the one's who come in contact with these.After establishing the relationship between media device and the interlocutor, Jacobs goes into specifics as he tells the reader about a recent research made on Virginia Tech over the effects of "chick-lit" on the women who read it. He continues the article by stating a couple references from a previous research and then explaining how the research occurred and what were its results. He closes the article by stating women who come into contact with novels from that specific genre tend to think of themselves as overweight and become disatisfied with their own bodies, leading to more serious consequences, such as bulimia and anorexia.
Jacobs' purpose when writing this article is to show how an innocent media device such as "chick flick" novel can have serious negative effects. In order to accomplish his goal, Jacobs uses analogies, as he places chick flicks right next to violent video games and sexually aggressive songs. Besides using analogies, he uses examples and facts to prove his point: he mentions the famous Bridget Jones and talks about research made on its effects on women. His purpose becomes clear as he achives it in the last sentence of the article: "Bridget Jones is a hoot, but spending quality time with her may come at a cost."
On January 19th, Tom Jacobs writes to the Pacific Standard about the possible negative effects the genre "chick flick" might inflict upon its readers. He starts the article by setting an analogy between the praised femine genre and other media standards, mentioning a well-known ground of how violent video games and sexually aggressive song lyrics impact the one's who come in contact with these.After establishing the relationship between media device and the interlocutor, Jacobs goes into specifics as he tells the reader about a recent research made on Virginia Tech over the effects of "chick-lit" on the women who read it. He continues the article by stating a couple references from a previous research and then explaining how the research occurred and what were its results. He closes the article by stating women who come into contact with novels from that specific genre tend to think of themselves as overweight and become disatisfied with their own bodies, leading to more serious consequences, such as bulimia and anorexia.
Jacobs' purpose when writing this article is to show how an innocent media device such as "chick flick" novel can have serious negative effects. In order to accomplish his goal, Jacobs uses analogies, as he places chick flicks right next to violent video games and sexually aggressive songs. Besides using analogies, he uses examples and facts to prove his point: he mentions the famous Bridget Jones and talks about research made on its effects on women. His purpose becomes clear as he achives it in the last sentence of the article: "Bridget Jones is a hoot, but spending quality time with her may come at a cost."
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
22. Florida’s ‘Python Challenge’ Draws 800 Snake Hunters
Burmese pythons have been ravaging Florida’s ecosystem for a
while. Since the introduction of the month long “Python Challenge” almost 800
people have signed up. The hunt began Saturday in the Everglades of Florida.
Cash prizes are to be offered to whoever catches the longest python and to
whoever catches the most pythons by the competitions end on February 10. Before
the hunt began, there were last minute training sessions in snake handling. The
hardest thing for the hunters would not be to scare the snakes but actually
spot the snakes. Knifes and pistols are
needed in case the hunters cross a python which can grow to more than twenty
feet in length. In many ways, the pythons have become something like zombies in
the Everglades. They have no natural predators, reproduce in large numbers, and
eat anything in their way. Most importantly, they do not belong in the
Everglades. For the time being, Florida prohibits the possession or sale of
pythons for pets. Since 2000, about 2,050 pythons have been harvested and it is
unknown how many more are still in the wetlands. Officials hope the competition
will get rid of the python problem and more importantly bring awareness about
the risks of introducing foreign species that pose a threat to Florida’s
wildlife.
The author, Jennifer Kay, uses this article to inform people of
the hunts in Florida for pythons. This article would be of interest to people
living in the area and dealing with the pesky pythons. It also serves to show what
happens in ecosystems when a news species is introduced. Kay uses lots of quotes
from hunters and the people in charge of the hunt. She also uses the cultural phenomenon
of zombies to show the threat of pythons on the ecosystem.
21. China’s One-Child Policy: Curse of the ‘Little Emperors’
http://healthland.time.com/2013/01/10/little-emperors/
China has become a global powerhouse, but some
mistakes have been made. The one child policy implemented in 1979 has been
shown to be a misguided idea. The policy seemed to make some sense though it
seemed a bit harsh. The country had a huge population growth and income for
families was needed. Yet, thirty-four years later, problems arose despite the
booming economy. Because of the sex-selective abortions, which were banned in
2004, there are more than 32 million middle aged men than women. Because of the
one child policy, it makes sense for parents to make sure their kid has the
best. Unfortunately, the children never learn to “eat bitterness” or deal with
other disappointments or hardships. Some employers even specify “no single
children” in job postings. Several tests were done to show if the title of “little
emperors” was fitting of Chinas one policy kids. In the tests, there were people
from 29 to 37 and some were only children while others had grown up with
siblings. The tests showed that the only children subjects were less generous,
trusting, competitive, and more pessimistic. The one child policy has had harsh
and unforeseen consequences. Though the policy is still in place, it seems that
people are more welcome to a change now.
The article was written by Jeffrey Kluger. His article
explained the consequences of the radical and controversial act of the one
child policy. He references a study at the beginning of the article. Also, a
bit of background is given on the one child policy. There are many references about
findings from other sources as well.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
23.Facebook Unveils a New Search Tool
Although facebook is known for uniting people workwide and is complemented for being user friendly, seem like they are still at work on how to help people connect to each other comfortably without much problem which is why Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder and chief executive of Facebook announced that in a while facebook will be launching a new tool that will support the people to have easy access to past posts and photos in the midst of such chaos and promises it will facilitate the millions users life in persuing on what interests them online.
This article can make to audience either very excited or leave them in a pondering state. Technology has been advancing us very fast and by updating and giving tools to have a easier access to a large amount of imformation can be somewhat negative. But this article also accesse us to visuals to look forward to this tool and uses comparison to compare how hard it is for us to find old posts and pictures and various things that interests us and how it will be good not to go through such an hard work to find what interests you the most
This article can make to audience either very excited or leave them in a pondering state. Technology has been advancing us very fast and by updating and giving tools to have a easier access to a large amount of imformation can be somewhat negative. But this article also accesse us to visuals to look forward to this tool and uses comparison to compare how hard it is for us to find old posts and pictures and various things that interests us and how it will be good not to go through such an hard work to find what interests you the most
22.New York Assembly Passes Gun Legislation
Due to the mass of shooting in Newton last year, on Tuesday it was approved that a package of gun measures would significantly expand the states' ban on assault weapons.Passage by the Assembly, on a 104-to-43 vote, came after nearly five hours of debate. The Senate approved the legislation on Monday night.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, a Democrat said he would be signing the legislation this afternoon for the new restrictions after the wake of gun shooting at Sandy Hook elementary school. After the signing and official statement, New York shall become the first state to enact such a significant law in response to the Newton's shooting and Mr.Cuomo assures that it will be the nations toughest law.
While reading this article it was noticeable how the author was cautious for the wording making it clear that the law had not yet been passed. but informing the audience correctly and also showing how concerning this issue is revealing that it will affect the lives of many every since the Newton's shooting incident . The message has been clearly sent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/16/nyregion/tougher-gun-law-in-new-york.html?hp
While reading this article it was noticeable how the author was cautious for the wording making it clear that the law had not yet been passed. but informing the audience correctly and also showing how concerning this issue is revealing that it will affect the lives of many every since the Newton's shooting incident . The message has been clearly sent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/16/nyregion/tougher-gun-law-in-new-york.html?hp
20. Dozens Killed as Explosions Hit Syrian University
Syrian Air Force MIG fighter planes targeted two missiles on the campus of Aleppo University in Syria, 82 bodies were found dead and over 150 people are known to be injures due to these two missiles. the opposition and government put the blame on each other for this huge disaster in syria. and it has been the worst since the Syrian conflict began two years ago. even the universities own press occues the Syrian Air force MIG for this cause. and it has been denounced as a criminal act and as a act issuing terrorism. reporters interviewed the witnesses that have declared that it was a huge surprise seeing this scene and witnessing smoke coming out of the dormitories saying it was a huge mess.
This article was very well written because it gave a bried explanation on how the Syrian situation got to this matter but most importantly it described percisely and it also reported proof of the witnesses giving everyone the information and also the appropriate diction for such a cause.
This article was very well written because it gave a bried explanation on how the Syrian situation got to this matter but most importantly it described percisely and it also reported proof of the witnesses giving everyone the information and also the appropriate diction for such a cause.
20. "Worry Over Sales Spurs Talk of Cheaper iPhones"
Brian Chen posted an article on January 14 about the new problem Apple is facing, whether to keep the cost of the iphone high or go lower so that they will be able to compete with other brands such as Samsung. Apple began to worry with there low income competitors after noting that sales have dropped and were worse than what they were expecting. Although the iPhone is still the top seller in America, it is not like that in other countries such as Brazil and Germany. The cheaper iPhones are still more expensive than the cheapest Android phones as Tero Kuittinen said. Lately, Apple has been cutting down on the amount of iPhone 5 to be produced. At first it was said to make 19 million but now it has been changed from 11 to 14 million. A main reason Apple is loosing money is because their workers often predicted a number too high to produce. A way Apple can grow to an even larger brand is if they partner with China Mobil which has 600 million subscribers. Apple will probably create a phone that is cheaper than the new iPhone 5 yet more expensive than the cheapest iPhone, like the iPad mini.
The purpose Chen wrote this article is to inform readers about the possibility for more afordable iPhones. Chen includes many quotes in his article to show how Apple is thinking for the future. He is able to provide the reader with a lot of information so that the reader is able to completely understand the situation.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/15/technology/worry-over-sales-spurs-talk-of-cheaper-iphones.html?ref=technology&_r=0
The purpose Chen wrote this article is to inform readers about the possibility for more afordable iPhones. Chen includes many quotes in his article to show how Apple is thinking for the future. He is able to provide the reader with a lot of information so that the reader is able to completely understand the situation.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/15/technology/worry-over-sales-spurs-talk-of-cheaper-iphones.html?ref=technology&_r=0
Monday, January 14, 2013
20. Goon Control
http://www.slate.com/articles/health_and_science/human_nature/2013/01/guns_don_t_kill_people_people_kill_people_so_keep_dangerous_people_away.html
After the Sandy Hook shootings, gun
control has become a very talked about issue and big decisions have to be made.
Most Americans do not blame shootings on firearms; they blame the shooters who
are seen as crooks or insane people who are not relatable to normal gun
owners. Gun owners are also more likely
to vote based on the issue than gun-control sympathizers are. To get
politicians that gun restriction is needed a majority support is needed. However,
proposals to restrict the capacities of guns and ammunition do not get much
support. More people support proposals that restrict certain people from buying
firearms. In a recent poll on bans of semiautomatic handguns 52 percent
supported the ban while 59 percent liked a ban on high-capacity clips. In
another poll, 27 percent wanted a prohibition on handguns. However when it came
to restrictions for people respondents opposed by 52 to 48 percent on “limiting
the number of guns an individual can own.” When asked about background checks
and denying guns to certain people with problems the support numbers went above
90 percent.
This article was written by William Saletan. In light of
the tragic event of the Sandy Hook shootings, people look for solutions to
preventing another shooting. This article would come in handy for people
researching for multiple opinions and solutions. The author references, Slate’s Jacob Weisberg and his advice to, “treat gun
control as a health issue, not a moral issue.” Saletan also expresses his
idea to, “target people not guns.” He uses multiple polls and data to make his
article well informed and professional.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
22. Six Men Arrested in India After New Bus Rape
http://www.slate.com/blogs/the_slatest/2013/01/13/six_men_arrested_in_india_after_new_bus_rape.html
Daniel Politi, author of Slate Magazine wrote on January 13 about the arrest of six men charged for gang rape in India. The first paragraph of the article explained the tragic story of a 29 year old women who was gang raped after being refused to be dropped of at the village she lived in. Being the only passenger left, the victim was taken to an isolated area in the state of Punjab by the bus driver and conductor. Five other men met with them and raped the victim before taking the woman back to the village next morning. Though six of the criminals were arrested, CNN reported that the Indian police was still in search of the seventh criminal. Next, the author quoted what the victim had to tell the reporters about what happened to her. The following two paragraphs related back to two previous gang rape incidents in India where both victims died.
The purpose of the article was to inform about the arrest of six criminals who were charged for raping. The author wrote unbiased and he used a serious and formal tone to announce the arrest as well as to talk about similar past events. The article was well organized and easy to understand because of the author's simple and direct diction, and the use of the victim's own words and reference to CNN news was effective in the way that it made the article more credible. The only factor that seemed to not be effective was the way the article ended. It seemed to have ended abruptly after talking about a past rape incident, and that did not give a proper concluding close to the article.
Daniel Politi, author of Slate Magazine wrote on January 13 about the arrest of six men charged for gang rape in India. The first paragraph of the article explained the tragic story of a 29 year old women who was gang raped after being refused to be dropped of at the village she lived in. Being the only passenger left, the victim was taken to an isolated area in the state of Punjab by the bus driver and conductor. Five other men met with them and raped the victim before taking the woman back to the village next morning. Though six of the criminals were arrested, CNN reported that the Indian police was still in search of the seventh criminal. Next, the author quoted what the victim had to tell the reporters about what happened to her. The following two paragraphs related back to two previous gang rape incidents in India where both victims died.
The purpose of the article was to inform about the arrest of six criminals who were charged for raping. The author wrote unbiased and he used a serious and formal tone to announce the arrest as well as to talk about similar past events. The article was well organized and easy to understand because of the author's simple and direct diction, and the use of the victim's own words and reference to CNN news was effective in the way that it made the article more credible. The only factor that seemed to not be effective was the way the article ended. It seemed to have ended abruptly after talking about a past rape incident, and that did not give a proper concluding close to the article.
21. Internet Activist Aaron Swartz, Reddit and RSS Pioneer, Commits Suicide at 26
http://www.slate.com/blogs/the_slatest/2013/01/12/aaron_swartz_dead_reddit_rss_pioneer_commits_suicide_at_26.html
On January 12, Daniel Politi wrote about the tragic death of a Aaron Swartz, "one of the best-known Internet activists." He introduced his topic through brief background about who Aaron Swartz was and his influential role in the media industry. The following paragraph explained how Swartz's campaigns eventually led him to become the "Internet folk hero," but two years ago, was charged for illegaly downloading data from a subscribtion service known as the JSTOR. The trial was set for April and Swartz "faced as many as 35 years in prison and $1 million in fines." Though many thought Swartz's death was because he simply feared going to jail, Politi reference to BoingBoing Cory Doctorow who praised Swartz's works and noted Swartz fought depression for several years. In addition, Politi also quoted a Harvard professor called Larry Lessing who said Swartz was "driven to the edge by what a decent society would only call bullying."
Politi's main purpose in writing this article was to inform the death of a "legendary figure" through a formal tone and simple diction, that made it clear for his audience to fully understand it. Though Politi took an unbiased stand regarding the issue, and did not include any personal opinions, his references to other sources who defined Aaron Swartz as a "legendary figure" or the "Internet folk hero" made it seem as if he also regarded Swartz as a great person. In the third paragraph particularly, Politi referenced to people who portrayed Swartz as an innocent man whose death was a result of injustice, pressure, and depression. The article ended with a short quotation from Nation which described Swartz as a person who worked to "try to bend the world into a place more hospitable to people like him."
On January 12, Daniel Politi wrote about the tragic death of a Aaron Swartz, "one of the best-known Internet activists." He introduced his topic through brief background about who Aaron Swartz was and his influential role in the media industry. The following paragraph explained how Swartz's campaigns eventually led him to become the "Internet folk hero," but two years ago, was charged for illegaly downloading data from a subscribtion service known as the JSTOR. The trial was set for April and Swartz "faced as many as 35 years in prison and $1 million in fines." Though many thought Swartz's death was because he simply feared going to jail, Politi reference to BoingBoing Cory Doctorow who praised Swartz's works and noted Swartz fought depression for several years. In addition, Politi also quoted a Harvard professor called Larry Lessing who said Swartz was "driven to the edge by what a decent society would only call bullying."
Politi's main purpose in writing this article was to inform the death of a "legendary figure" through a formal tone and simple diction, that made it clear for his audience to fully understand it. Though Politi took an unbiased stand regarding the issue, and did not include any personal opinions, his references to other sources who defined Aaron Swartz as a "legendary figure" or the "Internet folk hero" made it seem as if he also regarded Swartz as a great person. In the third paragraph particularly, Politi referenced to people who portrayed Swartz as an innocent man whose death was a result of injustice, pressure, and depression. The article ended with a short quotation from Nation which described Swartz as a person who worked to "try to bend the world into a place more hospitable to people like him."
22. The Battle Against the Clock
20. The Four Best Questions to Ask Teenagers at Risk for Suicide
http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2013/01/11/screening_for_teen_suicide_the_four_questions_to_ask_at_risk_youth.html
Slate writer Emily Bazelon wrote on Friday, January 11th regarding teenage suicide causes. She introduced the article with a question asking the reader "If you had two minutes to screen teenagers who were potentially at risk for suicide, what four questions would you ask them?" In the next paragraph, Bazelon explained the approach taken by a research group who came up with a shorter list of questions compared to the SIQ (Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire) to question to 500 patients. It was later found out that four of the 17 were really close to the SIQ results.
Bazelon's purpose in writing this article was to prove that bullying is not a direct cause for teenage suicide, but rather a factor that contributes to suicidal thoughts in teens. The passage is directed to the general public and by using credible sources to support her argument (National Institute of Mental Health and Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire) she was effectively able to inform the reader that the key is that "proportion, and understanding that suicide usually has multiple causes."
Slate writer Emily Bazelon wrote on Friday, January 11th regarding teenage suicide causes. She introduced the article with a question asking the reader "If you had two minutes to screen teenagers who were potentially at risk for suicide, what four questions would you ask them?" In the next paragraph, Bazelon explained the approach taken by a research group who came up with a shorter list of questions compared to the SIQ (Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire) to question to 500 patients. It was later found out that four of the 17 were really close to the SIQ results.
Bazelon's purpose in writing this article was to prove that bullying is not a direct cause for teenage suicide, but rather a factor that contributes to suicidal thoughts in teens. The passage is directed to the general public and by using credible sources to support her argument (National Institute of Mental Health and Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire) she was effectively able to inform the reader that the key is that "proportion, and understanding that suicide usually has multiple causes."
Thursday, January 10, 2013
22. Seau Suffered From Brain Disease
In the article written by Mary Pilon, she talks about the effect of the disease chronic traumatic encephalopathy on athletes. She begins by reporting findings that prove that Junior Seau, a former NFL linebacker who commited suicide last spring, suffered from CTE. CTE is a degenerative brain disease that is common in individuals who experience repeated head trauma. The disease is linked to a decline in cognitive abilities and some experts say is what cause Mr. Seau to commit suicide. Researchers at Boston University who have specialized in CTE performed autopsies on the brains of 34 former NFL players. 33 were confirmed to have CTE. CTE has now emerged as a major issue among football players which is why Mr. Seau's family decided to donate his brain for research.
21. Lawyer Says Indian Gang Rape Suspect Was Tortured by Police
An article written by Sruthi Gotipati talks about the lawyers who are defending the 6 men who were accused of raping and killing a college student in a bus in New Delhi, India. One of the lawyers representing one of the accused, Manohar Lal Sharma, claimed that his client was tortured by the police and that his accusation was forced. Sharma said that he received a phone call from his client where he asked for help and said that he was being beaten. Sharma even goes on to say that the victim was responsible for the rape. He said that the victim had no business walking around the city at night. The other lawyers representing the suspects took a similar approach and presented their clients in a favorable light.
The author's purpose was to report about the incident and clarify why the lawyers choose to defend their clients.
The author's purpose was to report about the incident and clarify why the lawyers choose to defend their clients.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
22. Too Much TV: Fussy Infants Spend More Time In Front of The Tube
Television has always come up when
people search for a reason behind children having shorter attention spans as
well as bad habits. Now, in this
article, people search and find that when children, infants, view television
often, it hurts their eating habits.
This is quite frightening and is a big source of child obesity. This article covers a question that has been
answered on many a basis, but it is always a good reminder: television is bad
for young developing brains. Eating in
front of a TV will cause children to pursue harmful eating habits which will
eventually lead to obesity.
In Alexandra Sifferlin’s article, she
brings up many statistics and quotes from people with authority and knowledge
on the matter. Studies and other tools
are used to provide a point for her story.
This subject is increasing in importance and necessity in American culture,
because it is everywhere. This would bring
a reader to this article, addressing a common matter that harms people. Learning to prevent it is obviously important
to mothers with children suffering from obesity. It is something that everyone should try to
prevent. Overall, Sifferlin did a good
job bringing up point and proving how they were affective and essential for guiding
the reader.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
22. The Enliven Project's False Rape Accusations Infographic: Great Intentions, But It Isn't Accurate.
http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2013/01/08/the_enliven_project_s_false_rape_accusations_infographic_great_intentions.html
Amanda Marcotte presents her article "The Enliven Project's False Rape Accusations Infographic: Great Intentions, But It Isn't Accurate" to clarify that, unlike what the infographic precisely presents, there are mostly fewer rapists who are repeat offenders, the number of unreported rapes are estimated to be 54 percent of the cases, and that the number of false accusations are actually even less than the graph presents. Marcotte first introduces the infographic created by the Enliven Project, praising its intentions but declaring its lack of accuracy. She divides her points of problems in to three subtitled paragraphs to classify and explain them. Marcotte's first point is that the error of the infographic was to assume "one -rape-per-rapist." She explains that the infographic gives and impression that there are many rapists who commit one rape, causing some to conclude that one in five men are rapists. However, that an average rapist commits six rapes, which indicates that there are a smaller number of rapists with the same number of rapes. Secondly, Marcotte cites RAINN (the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) to claim that 54 percent of rapes are estimated to go unreported--a much smaller percentage than what the infographic displays. As her final point, Marcotte states the difference between "false accusations," which the infographic is labeled, and "false reports," which the Enliven Project actually tallies. She uses definition to claim that the graphic "overestimates the number of false accusations" because a "false accusation" is a narrower definition than a "false report," causing number of false accusations to be smaller than what the graphic shows.
Marcotte's purpose is to present the popular graphic with accuracy, providing the audience with truer information and concrete statistics. Marcotte intends this article mostly to the people who have been exposed to the Enliven Project's infographic to clear misconceptions caused by inaccurate representation of statistics. Although she intends to correct the infographic's inaccuracy, she implies no further purpose of discrediting the infographic, for she repeatedly applauds its helpful intentions.
Amanda Marcotte presents her article "The Enliven Project's False Rape Accusations Infographic: Great Intentions, But It Isn't Accurate" to clarify that, unlike what the infographic precisely presents, there are mostly fewer rapists who are repeat offenders, the number of unreported rapes are estimated to be 54 percent of the cases, and that the number of false accusations are actually even less than the graph presents. Marcotte first introduces the infographic created by the Enliven Project, praising its intentions but declaring its lack of accuracy. She divides her points of problems in to three subtitled paragraphs to classify and explain them. Marcotte's first point is that the error of the infographic was to assume "one -rape-per-rapist." She explains that the infographic gives and impression that there are many rapists who commit one rape, causing some to conclude that one in five men are rapists. However, that an average rapist commits six rapes, which indicates that there are a smaller number of rapists with the same number of rapes. Secondly, Marcotte cites RAINN (the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) to claim that 54 percent of rapes are estimated to go unreported--a much smaller percentage than what the infographic displays. As her final point, Marcotte states the difference between "false accusations," which the infographic is labeled, and "false reports," which the Enliven Project actually tallies. She uses definition to claim that the graphic "overestimates the number of false accusations" because a "false accusation" is a narrower definition than a "false report," causing number of false accusations to be smaller than what the graphic shows.
Marcotte's purpose is to present the popular graphic with accuracy, providing the audience with truer information and concrete statistics. Marcotte intends this article mostly to the people who have been exposed to the Enliven Project's infographic to clear misconceptions caused by inaccurate representation of statistics. Although she intends to correct the infographic's inaccuracy, she implies no further purpose of discrediting the infographic, for she repeatedly applauds its helpful intentions.
21. Our Galaxy Is Crammed Full of Planets
http://www.slate.com/blogs/bad_astronomy/2013/01/07/alien_earths_new_study_indicates_there_are_billions_of_earth_sized_planets.html
In the article "Our Galaxy is Crammed Full of Planets," Phil Plait explains that the Milky Way Galaxy is currently estimated to have some hundred billion planets, with 17 billion that are about the size of Earth. Plait supports this statement by mentioning the previous studies that have calculated roughly the same numbers of planets, such as the counting by NASA's Kepler spacecraft launched in 2009. Plait also explains the process of the findings which includes observing the dimming of a starlight, assumed to be caused by a planet directly lining up in between the star and the Earth. Along with the new research overlooking 5000 potential periodic transit-like events, he states, scientists have found over 2000 planet candidates so far. Plait presents with excitement that through such observations, scientists are able to calculate an estimated number of planets in the whole galaxy which add up to about a hundred billion, indicating that "tens of billions of alien solar systems are scattered throughout the Milky Way." Plait then enthusiastically announces that 17% of those planets are the size of Earth, though most of them are probably not necessarily Earth-like.
Plait presents this article to a broad range of audiences around the net with a tone of fascination and excitement toward the advancement of science. Plait's audience consists of those who are not highly educated in astronomy, but with interest in such discoveries, are able to comprehend the basic behaviors of a solar system. Plait accomplishes his purpose by establishing a connection with the audience in which he shares thrill and excitement about even more scientific achievements in the future which he hopes will discover the unknown worlds out there.
In the article "Our Galaxy is Crammed Full of Planets," Phil Plait explains that the Milky Way Galaxy is currently estimated to have some hundred billion planets, with 17 billion that are about the size of Earth. Plait supports this statement by mentioning the previous studies that have calculated roughly the same numbers of planets, such as the counting by NASA's Kepler spacecraft launched in 2009. Plait also explains the process of the findings which includes observing the dimming of a starlight, assumed to be caused by a planet directly lining up in between the star and the Earth. Along with the new research overlooking 5000 potential periodic transit-like events, he states, scientists have found over 2000 planet candidates so far. Plait presents with excitement that through such observations, scientists are able to calculate an estimated number of planets in the whole galaxy which add up to about a hundred billion, indicating that "tens of billions of alien solar systems are scattered throughout the Milky Way." Plait then enthusiastically announces that 17% of those planets are the size of Earth, though most of them are probably not necessarily Earth-like.
Plait presents this article to a broad range of audiences around the net with a tone of fascination and excitement toward the advancement of science. Plait's audience consists of those who are not highly educated in astronomy, but with interest in such discoveries, are able to comprehend the basic behaviors of a solar system. Plait accomplishes his purpose by establishing a connection with the audience in which he shares thrill and excitement about even more scientific achievements in the future which he hopes will discover the unknown worlds out there.
Monday, January 7, 2013
20. Why Japan Can't Compete With China
http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2013/01/why-japan-cant-compete-with-china/266800/
In the article "Why Japan Can't Compete With China," Brian Fung, an editor at the Atlantic argues that Japan's lack of human capital in contrast to China's great population and man power limits Japan's capabilities against China. Fung acknowledges that Japan is one of the three powers that can combine with each other to "keep Beijing hemmed in," but at the same time, he introduces Japan's problem by stating that it could end up being just a theory. Fung points out Japan's relatively small population in comparison to China's enormous population and adds that the median age of the Japanese population is older than the Chinese by nearly 10 years. He also includes that although Japan is known for its complex and efficient technological developments, the lack of human capital "begins to eat away" at such advantages. Fung refers to the instances of the Japan and china's island dispute and notes that Japan faces the challenge of finding new seamen and patrol ships quickly enough while China is able to produce new vessels and convert old ones progressively. He worriedly states that Japan's emergency solution is to convert ten old vessels and to use old people to crew them.
Fung's purpose of this article is to introduce Japan's possible difficulty in the counter-China coalition. He asserts that Japan's capabilities are distracted by its lack of human capital and is not able to reach that of China's. Fung intends this article toward audiences who are informed about the issue in China and Japan, including their dispute with the Senkaku islands, or Diaoyu islands as the Chinese call it. He intends to feed the audience's interest with information of the two countries' progresses and issues along with a different thought about the potential of each country.
In the article "Why Japan Can't Compete With China," Brian Fung, an editor at the Atlantic argues that Japan's lack of human capital in contrast to China's great population and man power limits Japan's capabilities against China. Fung acknowledges that Japan is one of the three powers that can combine with each other to "keep Beijing hemmed in," but at the same time, he introduces Japan's problem by stating that it could end up being just a theory. Fung points out Japan's relatively small population in comparison to China's enormous population and adds that the median age of the Japanese population is older than the Chinese by nearly 10 years. He also includes that although Japan is known for its complex and efficient technological developments, the lack of human capital "begins to eat away" at such advantages. Fung refers to the instances of the Japan and china's island dispute and notes that Japan faces the challenge of finding new seamen and patrol ships quickly enough while China is able to produce new vessels and convert old ones progressively. He worriedly states that Japan's emergency solution is to convert ten old vessels and to use old people to crew them.
Fung's purpose of this article is to introduce Japan's possible difficulty in the counter-China coalition. He asserts that Japan's capabilities are distracted by its lack of human capital and is not able to reach that of China's. Fung intends this article toward audiences who are informed about the issue in China and Japan, including their dispute with the Senkaku islands, or Diaoyu islands as the Chinese call it. He intends to feed the audience's interest with information of the two countries' progresses and issues along with a different thought about the potential of each country.
20.Hundreds Support Journalists of Censored Chinese Newspaper
Hundreds of people gathered around a Chinese newspaper company after a government censorship scandal. The strike was cause by the fact that local chinese propaganda officials began interfering with the company's right of free speech. The majority of the country is for the protesters and so are many celebrities such as Yao Chen who quoted the revered Russian dissident, Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, "One word of truth outweighs the whole world." According to the author, such disputes between press and government are common but rarely emerge into public view, which is what makes this case unique. Much criticism has been aimed at Tuo Zhen, the top propaganda official. Protesters have been going around with signs that advocate Mr. Tuo's resignation. In response to the the event, different parties met and discussed the issue, although, according to one Chinese journalist, nothing was achieved in those talks.
The author's purpose was to inform about the issue at hand and explain the reasons of each side although he himself does not take one specific side.
The author's purpose was to inform about the issue at hand and explain the reasons of each side although he himself does not take one specific side.
Sunday, January 6, 2013
22. Why Hagel?
http://theweek.com/article/index/238422/why-hagel
Marc Ambinder, the author of the article "Why Hagel?," writes in his article about why President of the United States Obama has chosen Chuck Hagel as Secretary of Defense. According to the article, Obama's decision was a rather interesting and astonishing choice. Obama is a very well known Democrat and it would be more than logical for him to appoint a Democrat as Secretary of Defense. When Obama was first elected president, he had nominated and appointed a strong Democrat as the Secretary of Defense: Leon Panetta. He wanted to establish a precedent of a strong sense of national security, an essential national matter. Chuck Hagel, a former Republican senator from Nebraska was appointed Secretary of Defense. The author states that Obama now understood the massive institutional and political obligation of the role; he had to wisely choose someone to give him counsel and advice. The reason Obama chose Hagel was simple: Obama trusted Hagel and wanted his advices.
The author of this short article uses rhetorical devices to achieve his purpose. The author wants to explain to the reader why Obama had chosen Chuck Hagel as Secretary of Defense. Since the Secretary of Defense holds a very strong political force and position, people were shocked when Democrat Obama had chosen a Republican to be his personal counselor. The author answers his own question by stating that Obama trusted former Republican senator of Nebraska Chuck Hagel to hold such a strong and important position. Hagel has the power to give the president advices and counsel. Obama had trusted Hagel with issues in Afghanistan and China as well as other national security matters in which Hagel had proven himself to be truly competent to do a good job. People were shocked and the author explains that although it is a very shocking and unusual decision made by the president, Hagel can be trusted to be the United States' Secretary of Defense.
Marc Ambinder, the author of the article "Why Hagel?," writes in his article about why President of the United States Obama has chosen Chuck Hagel as Secretary of Defense. According to the article, Obama's decision was a rather interesting and astonishing choice. Obama is a very well known Democrat and it would be more than logical for him to appoint a Democrat as Secretary of Defense. When Obama was first elected president, he had nominated and appointed a strong Democrat as the Secretary of Defense: Leon Panetta. He wanted to establish a precedent of a strong sense of national security, an essential national matter. Chuck Hagel, a former Republican senator from Nebraska was appointed Secretary of Defense. The author states that Obama now understood the massive institutional and political obligation of the role; he had to wisely choose someone to give him counsel and advice. The reason Obama chose Hagel was simple: Obama trusted Hagel and wanted his advices.
The author of this short article uses rhetorical devices to achieve his purpose. The author wants to explain to the reader why Obama had chosen Chuck Hagel as Secretary of Defense. Since the Secretary of Defense holds a very strong political force and position, people were shocked when Democrat Obama had chosen a Republican to be his personal counselor. The author answers his own question by stating that Obama trusted former Republican senator of Nebraska Chuck Hagel to hold such a strong and important position. Hagel has the power to give the president advices and counsel. Obama had trusted Hagel with issues in Afghanistan and China as well as other national security matters in which Hagel had proven himself to be truly competent to do a good job. People were shocked and the author explains that although it is a very shocking and unusual decision made by the president, Hagel can be trusted to be the United States' Secretary of Defense.
21. College Textbooks Are Too Expensive
http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2013/01/why-are-college-textbooks-so-absurdly-expensive/266801/
Jordan Weissmann, the author of the article "Why Are College Textbooks So Absurdly Expensive?," starts out his writing with a funny comparison. College tuition is not the only thing which is increasing. College textbooks prices are equally getting pricier and pricier. The American Enterprise Institution has shown that the cost of course materials has increased incredibly; the cost of calculus books, for example, have shot up higher than basic health care, home prices, and inflation. The author also tries to explain why the cost of educational books has grown so much. Some experts claim that the procedure to produce a single college textbook requires a lot of time, effort, and of course money. However, the author explains that college professors many times take little into consideration the actual content of the textbook and take student requirements for granted. Big publishers have started suing small publisher companies and they have also started to include software downloads which require for more enrollment and more money to be paid all in order to increase profits.
The author uses several rhetorical devices in order to achieve his purpose. The author starts out his article with a rhetorical question; he tries to lead the reader into thinking that college tuitions aren't the only things which have become even pricier. Every year, college textbooks are becoming more expensive. The author includes a chart showing the increase in prices for educational books compared to other financial expenses. The author also includes some statistical facts (students waste about 600 to 700 dollars in college textbooks). Weissmann proposes the idea that although American publishers may state that making a textbook requires a lot of money, the truth is that these huge publishing companies have tried their best to increase their profits; big publishers have started to sue small companies for small copyright issues and others have included softwares that require extra payment. In other words, the reason textbooks are so expensive is because publishers are greedy and want more profits.
Jordan Weissmann, the author of the article "Why Are College Textbooks So Absurdly Expensive?," starts out his writing with a funny comparison. College tuition is not the only thing which is increasing. College textbooks prices are equally getting pricier and pricier. The American Enterprise Institution has shown that the cost of course materials has increased incredibly; the cost of calculus books, for example, have shot up higher than basic health care, home prices, and inflation. The author also tries to explain why the cost of educational books has grown so much. Some experts claim that the procedure to produce a single college textbook requires a lot of time, effort, and of course money. However, the author explains that college professors many times take little into consideration the actual content of the textbook and take student requirements for granted. Big publishers have started suing small publisher companies and they have also started to include software downloads which require for more enrollment and more money to be paid all in order to increase profits.
The author uses several rhetorical devices in order to achieve his purpose. The author starts out his article with a rhetorical question; he tries to lead the reader into thinking that college tuitions aren't the only things which have become even pricier. Every year, college textbooks are becoming more expensive. The author includes a chart showing the increase in prices for educational books compared to other financial expenses. The author also includes some statistical facts (students waste about 600 to 700 dollars in college textbooks). Weissmann proposes the idea that although American publishers may state that making a textbook requires a lot of money, the truth is that these huge publishing companies have tried their best to increase their profits; big publishers have started to sue small companies for small copyright issues and others have included softwares that require extra payment. In other words, the reason textbooks are so expensive is because publishers are greedy and want more profits.
20. China Loves Drugs
http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2013/01/chinas-growing-appetite-for-new-kinds-of-luxury-goods-illegal-drugs/266815/
Charles Zhu, the author of the article "China's Growing Appetite for New Kinds of Luxury Goods: Illegal Drugs," is directing the article to a rather interesting observation. The author starts out by including a economic background of China; the country has been experiencing exponential growth with regards to manufactured goods. The country exports and imports hundreds of goods and the nation's economy has been booming. The author then explains that the country has not only been booming with cars, luxury goods, and handbags, but the nation has been experiencing a growth in illegal drug consumption. According to the author, 25 years ago, narcotics and drugs were unheard of, but interestingly, the nation has been experiencing such a growth in drug usage. The author tries to explain the causes of such a phenomenon: the nation has had more relaxed borders, an increase in wealth, and a more liberal concept of individual freedom.
The author uses several rhetorical devices to increase and strengthen his point of view and purpose. The first of them is the title which at first seems to be addressing a formal fact but ends with an interesting and humorous statement. The fact that the author uses "luxury goods" to describe illegal drugs is very satirical. The author then proceeds to follow a fixed cause and effect pattern. The author states the reasons, the causes for increased drug usage in China and then explains some of the effects such as the change in the population in general, the government provisions, etc.
Charles Zhu, the author of the article "China's Growing Appetite for New Kinds of Luxury Goods: Illegal Drugs," is directing the article to a rather interesting observation. The author starts out by including a economic background of China; the country has been experiencing exponential growth with regards to manufactured goods. The country exports and imports hundreds of goods and the nation's economy has been booming. The author then explains that the country has not only been booming with cars, luxury goods, and handbags, but the nation has been experiencing a growth in illegal drug consumption. According to the author, 25 years ago, narcotics and drugs were unheard of, but interestingly, the nation has been experiencing such a growth in drug usage. The author tries to explain the causes of such a phenomenon: the nation has had more relaxed borders, an increase in wealth, and a more liberal concept of individual freedom.
The author uses several rhetorical devices to increase and strengthen his point of view and purpose. The first of them is the title which at first seems to be addressing a formal fact but ends with an interesting and humorous statement. The fact that the author uses "luxury goods" to describe illegal drugs is very satirical. The author then proceeds to follow a fixed cause and effect pattern. The author states the reasons, the causes for increased drug usage in China and then explains some of the effects such as the change in the population in general, the government provisions, etc.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
21. More Food for Hungry Students: USDA Tweaks School Meals
With a big issue throughout the United
States being obesity, it makes sense that schools are offering regulations
enforcing healthier meals for their students.
This, sounding like good news, is a good kickoff for an article on
Alexandra Sifferlin’s part. Many people
want to hear about kids becoming healthier and, as it would seem,
stronger. This, though, is not the case
with the lessened calories allowed at a school lunch. While skim milk and whole grain products are
increasing, students find that they have notably less energy throughout the
day. This can be a real problem, especially
for students who participate in scholastic sports. When working out and keeping fit for a team,
people need to take in more food. With
restrictions, this is not possible.
Sifferlin uses good sources and
tactics to hold her readers attention, even if it is not what they would like
to hear. She brings up sources, one
which is both entertaining as well as good at proving its point, a parody going
against the regulations and showing how sporty highschoolers and young children
feel. Because so many people know that
Americans are suffering from weight related problems, it brings in a big crowd
to read what Sifferlin has to say.
20. School Security: Why It’s So Hard to Keep Kids Safe
In opening this article, writer
Bonnie Rochman immediately appeals to parents who worry about their children’s
security in school. She states that she
also worries about her son and daughter who are in, sadly, rather unsafe
learning environments. After stories of
shootings and violence throughout schools with young attendees, this article is
sure to perk acknowledgement as well as interest. Using this, Rochman is quick to state her
main idea, we need to work together to make schools safer. Her idea of community is soothing for people
in fear of their children’s safety; it makes them feel stronger and not alone
in a bad situation.
Sadly, the only ideas of protection
either put the students in a imprisoned environment, which would undoubtedly
make everyone hate school even more, or put them in a military inspired
learning facility where they would need to learn how to protect
themselves. In a time where humans want
to encourage anyone to visit a school for
the love of learning, will we risk the safety of innocent children?
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
21. Also, My Wife's Morning Breath Smells Like Cinnamon Buns
http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2013/01/02/natural_beauty_more_oppressive_than_makeup.html
Amanda Marcotte writes and article on January 2nd, explaining that is makeup has become a public realm, does it damage the woman's self-esteem? She begins her article explaining that the New York Times had a debate. She continues her article to say that the contributors didn't make they debate interesting because no one asked the real question that was "Why men don't get to have any makeup fun." She uses an example of Thomas Matlack, who is from the Grood Men Project, when he talks about his wife's grooming habits, he says that he doesn't mind his wife to wear makeup as long as she knows that he loves her when she has nothing on. She continues to say that the Tumblr boys beat him to it, by using handwritten signs that "natural" beauty is better then any other. Marcotte ends her article by saying that even though she doesn't use makeup all the time, she refuses to believe that women roll out of bed looking "perfectly natural."
In Marcotte article she expresses her thoughts of the "natural" beauty that the media portrays. In this article Marcotte starts with a very natural and straight forward tone of voice, when giving examples of med who have said that their wife's best features are before she puts on everything else. She explains that the boys on Tumblr beat Matlack by writing signs, expressing how girls don't need makeup or nice clothes to be beautiful because they are all beautiful. She uses a picture of a boy from Tumblr, the lighting on the picture gives emphasize on the boy with the sign and has a very serial image. It also has a bit of irony to the picture, because even though the boy is saying that girls are all beautiful without makeup, he, himself is wearing makeup of some kind. Marcotte ends her article with a very stung point and showing her point of view by saying "I refuse to embrace the fantasy that women just roll out of bed looking this way."
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