My Last Blog

Throughout this course I have been extremely challenged to push myself. This was my first online class, and I did not know what to expect. I have had my many ups and downs throughout this semester, and sometimes this course was overwhelming.

One thing I believe you should keep is the blogs. I have really enjoyed writing my blog, and getting feed-back from the other students. You get to know them even though we are not in a class together in person. I also enjoyed expressing my beliefs in a creative way while using the blogs, and I will probably continue my blog after this class is over.

One suggestion I would like to make to improve the course would be more of a lesson plan, throughout the semester we read a lot out of our text books and articles on websites to explain what we need to do, especially, with our papers. I realize this is what would be expected, but I think if we had a description from you personally explaining it in your own words would have benefited us a lot.

Kind of with the blogs, for each assignment you could write a short blog entry breaking it down. That way a student could look at it anytime they had a concern with the assignment. You could also use the blog to update students on things, like when an assignment will be graded or if you have gotten behind, I realize the help desk was mainly for this, but you could probably knock out two birds with one stone if you do have it posted before it is asked, but that is just a suggestion. J

Another thing, while I am thinking about it. I have always wondered why I received the grades I did for my blogs, somewhere good and some weren't and it would have been nice to have an short explanation next to the grade explaining why it had deductions, (Example:  grammar, length)

Overall, thanking you for asking for our feedback, I hope you will take mine as constructive and not rude. 

Since this week is free write; I have chosen to write this blog about the most important thing in my life, and that is my family. Growing up I have learned to never to take people and my time on earth for granite. At the age of four-teen I lost my mother very suddenly and then six months later I lost my aunt to cancer. These two women were the most important influences of my life.  Since the death of my mother I have lost several more family members and friends. This includes my sister and my grandma most recently. Death is sadly scary, and the many people I have lost were too young to leave this earth.  Death has given me a different perspective of life. I have learned so much over the past ten years that has molded me into the person I am today from my experiences.  In my opinion, the biggest lesson I have learned about life is “Everything Happens for a Reason”.

For almost every life I have lost, God has given me one to take their place. It’s hard to not be selfish and want them back, but I find comfort knowing I have many guardian angels watching over me. I might have a small family now, but the love we share is so much stronger because I don’t take them for granite. God has blessed me with a wonderful husband who is my best friend, and a beautiful little girl who keeps me smiling. I

am so grateful for the both of them.

 They have helped me heal in more ways than words can explain. I wanted to share my story with everyone to encourage them to always  be grateful for their loved ones, because you never know when they will no longer be around.

Technology Zombies

I have chosen to write my Argumentative Paper on how technology has handicapped society. In this day in age the world revolves around technology. If we were to take five teenagers back in time before electricity was invented, I do not believe they would be able to survive,

I believe society relies too much on technology in everyday life. I am also extremely guilty of this. I remember a time when land lines and payphones were my only source to contact people. Now, I am lost without my cellphone.

I remember a time where I had pen-pals. Now, if I wanted to write someone I would just send them an email.

In a way I miss the simplicity of not having technology. I remember when playing outside or building a fort was the highlight of my day. Now days, if you tell a child to play outside, they look at you like your stupid.

Most kids are glued to the Television, gaming system, computer or phone. Many parents use technology as a babysitter. I have been guilty myself of putting my two year old in front of cartoons while I cleaned or studied.

I believe technology has made society lazy. We rely too much on it, and there might be a day when we will no longer have it. The question is, would we be able to survive. I know the younger generation would suffer the most. 

To Ban Or Not To Ban?

Do you think I should be able to ban certain topics, or should you be able to write about anything you would like?  Why do you think I ban topics?

In my opinion, I agree that certain topics should be banned. There are certain topics like Gay marriage and Abortion that are very sensitive subjects for some people.

We live in a society where we are able to voice our own opinions, and sometimes those opinions offend others. With that being said, sometimes freedom of speech comes with many consequences.  

We see many protesters getting out of control, fighting for what they believe in; going to extreme lengths to get their points across. Hurting and destroying many innocent people in the process.

I have always been taught that there are certain subjects to avoid in conversation. Sexuality, religion, politics, people’s rights, cultural beliefs and difference are the type of conversations to avoid.

I believe everyone has a right to their own opinions, thoughts and beliefs. I have no authority to question whether or not it is right or wrong, and I believe that goes for everyone else.

When writing an essay that will be read by our professor, you would want to try and avoid any subject that might offend them, because you would not want to do, or say anything to upset them, especially, if your grade is at stack. I am not saying our professor would ever tamper with our grade out of spite; I am referring to anyone in general. That is why it is extremely important to avoid any sensitive subjects, so, banning certain subjects is the right thing to do.

Cash For Grades

There are several schools that are promoting the idea of "cash for grades." In this system, children who get good grades will be given money from the school.
Discuss what you believe to be some of the negative and positive aspects of this policy.

   As a child I received five dollars for every A+ I made on my report card and one dollar for every B+. My mother wanted to encourage me to do well in school by rewarding me, and it did work. I tried hard to excel in school to make sure I made A’s.

  In my opinion, I believe this would be extremely beneficial for schools. More children would want to do well to earn the cash. Then again, I can also see the disadvantages of the “cash for grades”. Some students have learning disabilities and might not do as well, even though the try just as hard. This might make a child feel bad about their selves, and that’s not the message we want to send our children.

  I think the concept is good for schools, but I think they should do it a different way. Maybe every child who brings up their grades could receive tokens. Then they could spend the tokens at the book fair or school store. This way the teachers can fill the store with educational toys or books; Instead of the child using real cash to buy junk food or video games at Walmart. I think this way both the child and teachers benefit from the policy.

Blog #9

  Discuss whether or not you believe the use of medical marijuana is justified or should be legalized.

In my opinion, I believe medical marijuana should be legalized. In my family over the past decade I have lost three family members to Cancer, and they all used medical marijuana to help comfort them during their illness.

   For those who are not familiar with Cancer, the chemo-therapy and radiation treatments they have to endure made them very sick. Sometimes to the point where they did not have an appetite or could even hold any food down. They Marijuana helped them a lot during this time. It gave them an appetite and even helped cope with the pain.
   Many people have mixed feelings about the use of marijuana because it is considered a drug; even though it has been legalized in many states for the use of medical purposes. I support the use of marijuana for medical purposes, because I have seen first-hand how beneficial it can be for people, especially, cancer patients. 

   Unlike many medicines created to help treat an illness, marijuana is a natural substance. I believe it would be more logical to use a substance that is natural rather than putting unknown chemicals in one’s body.
I do not condone the use of marijuana for personal use while it is illegal; I only condone it for medical purposes in the states where it is legalized. I believe more states should be more open minded about the beneficial use of marijuana for medical purposes and legalize it. 

Blog # 8

    

  I have chosen Lance Armstrong for my bibliography paper. Lance Armstrong has been in the media for many years, and most people know of him by name.

     Ever since Armstrong has been made public in the media he has been an inspiration for many people; especially, cancer patients. He has overcome many obstacles in life despite fighting cancer and being a survivor of it. He has proven that anything is possible if someone puts their mind to it.

   Over the past month I have heard that he has admitted to using steroids during his races, and has had his medals revoked. Like many other Americans, I am saddened by this news. Armstrong has been a “Hero” to many people while being deceiving at the same time. Not only has he lied and used illegal substances, he has ruined his name and all the accomplishments he worked hard for. It is such a disappointment because he has not only let down the many people that admire him; he also cheated himself.

    I cannot understand what possessed Armstrong to put such harmful chemicals in his body. Armstrong knows first-hand from battling cancer how precious and short life is. It baffles me that he would risk his body for a race. Considering the long term effects it could have caused him.

I realize that celebrities have a lot of pressure to be perfect, but no one is perfect! I praise Armstrong for being honest despite the consequences, but in my opinion there is no excuse for that type of behavior, and he deserves to be punished. 

Nobody is Perfect

Society has placed this image of beauty on women. If a woman is not a size two, she is considered fat. Women and young girls have gone to extreme lengths to assure their thin statue. A person cannot look at a magazine or turn on the Television, without this image being shoved down our throats.  The desire to be “beautiful” has caused women and in rare cases men, to starve their selves and/or become bulimic or anorexic; causing life threatening and long-term harm on their bodies. 

We ask ourselves why? Why would a person do this to their selves? I believe it’s obvious; wanting to be accepted by society. 

I think most women struggle with this issue. I myself have gained weight since the birth of my child, but I would never go to the extreme lengths to harm my body, especially, for the sake of what society expects me to be. I believe beauty comes in all forms. A woman can be curvy and still be beautiful. What matters is what’s on the inside, because looks can only get a person so far in life. To me there are a lot more important things in life rather than just looks.

 I do not look down on anyone who works hard to stay fit by dieting and exercise. What bothers me is the fact our children are growing up in this day and age where this image is forced on them. I do not ever want my daughter to feel like she is not beautiful just because she does not look like the people on Television or in magazines. I think it is our duty as parents to teach our children the difference. 

Blog 6

Since we are discussing/writing about literature, this week's topic is about banned books. Should we attempt to protect our children from "adult" subjects, or should we allow children the intellectual freedom to read whatever they choose?

In my opinion, I believe it is a parent’s duty to protect their children from “adult” subjected books. When they are at a vulnerable age they are more prone to pick up bad habits and repeat things of an objective nature. I would not allow my child to read or watch something of a vulgar nature. 

Until my child is of age, it is my responsibility to protect her from things that may influence her in a bad way. This includes: books, movies, television shows, and people.

This day in age, vulgar language and material has become an acceptable thing in society.  I remember a time where curse words and nudity were not allowed on cable and radio. Now, almost anything is allowed to air. I am very particular about what my daughter watches on television, because even cartoons these days have become foul, and since my daughter is at an age where she is influenced easily, I try my best to monitor what she watches.

I cannot speak for other parents, but in my opinion children should be monitored at all times. They are learning so fast and it is a parent’s responsibility to make sure they are learning the right things in life, especially; since they are influenced so much by the things they watch and read. My child is a reflection of who I am, so I want to make sure and raise her respectfully, and this starts by limiting their freedoms.

"The Man Who Was Almost a Man''

In Richard Wright's "The Man Who Was Almost a Man," is Dave ready to be a man? Does he understand what being a man is?

In The story “The Man Who Was Almost a Man,” Dave believes he is now a man. He wants to buy a gun from the old man at the store. He wants to own a gun to show he has power. To prove he is now a man.

I do not believe Dave actually understands what being a man is. He wants the title and to be treated like one, yet, he is not ready for the responsibility of being one. He still has the mentality of a child and acts like one as well.

He was extremely irresponsible with the gun while he had it in his possession. He did not understand the consequences of his actions with the gun, and tried to lie his way out of it, when he shot the mule on an accident.

Instead of telling the truth about the accident like a true ‘man’ would. He chose to lie about it.Even in the end when he got caught, he did not truly own up to his actions, and still ran off with the gun, when his parents told him to sell it back.

Dave is not ready to be a man, and probably will not be ready for a while. He still has a lot of growing up and learning to do before he is ready for that title.

HEMINGWAY CODE

HEMINGWAY CODE

Hemingway was a brilliant writer in his time, but I do not believe his thoughts and beliefs would work for the 21^st century. I can see where his code would stand tall in his time era when he wrote it. In my opinion, I find him to be extremely arrogant like most of the men in that time.  

I am truly dissatisfied when Hemingway says,” Maintaining free-will and individualism, never weakly allowing commitment to a single woman.”

I might be interpreting this statement wrong, but as I see it, he is implying that a man should not be devoted to one woman. I believe in the sacrament of devotion and commitment in a relationship, and a person cannot have that with numerous partners.

The one thing that Hemingway said that I can agree with one-hundred percent is,” Being completely honest, keeping one's word or promise.”

I live by those words in my everyday life. I believe that honesty is the foundation of any relationship, rather it be a marriage, friendship or family member. At times, honesty can be hurtful, but in the end a lie would hurt so much more.

I also believe in keeping my word. One of my biggest pet peeves is someone not keeping their word or promise with me. I have always said that I might not have much to offer in life, but anyone can be certain that I will keep my word or promise. It is hard to trust someone when they cannot keep a promise, and I refuse to be that kind of person.

Blog 3

     In this Unit 2 I have learned quite a few new things. The one thing that stands out the most is the library data base and how to properly conduct research. I have found in my readings, using the process method to be very helpful. I would have never thought of using the method to conduct my research, and in the future I plan on trying it out.

     Part of the process includes using the library data base. I like the database because it is a reliable source. I can use it rather than using the internet explorer to save time. Not only will I save time, but I can be sure that all the articles I am reading are legit and have been reviewed before publishing. This will insure my research for my paper to be 100% accurate. This Unit has taught me how to correctly use the data base to narrow my results down to my specific topic. I have found this extremely helpful and useful.

   One thing I did have a question about from the Unit was our Vocabulary test. I was curious for future references, what website or dictionary you use to find your definitions. All though I did do well on the test I did struggle, because the website I used had multiple definition for certain words and it confused me. I found it confusing during the test to match up my definitions with yours. Other than that I do not have any more questions. 

Do you think digital is replacing print? Do you think this is a good thing or a bad thing?

 In my opinion, I do feel like digital is replacing print. In these modern day times the Internet has become the main source of research and information. The Internet provides every possible outlook for questions and answers. 

There are many upsides and downsides to this type of convenience. The bad thing about the internet is trying to distinguish the truth from the lies. Anyone with access to the Internet is able to publish their findings or beliefs, and it’s hard to be sure whether it is a credible source or not.

 With the internet and technology taking over; books will no longer be needed. In the past 10 years, technology has advanced in so many ways including: IPad,  Kindles, laptops,Iphones, smart phones and so on. I can only imagine how technology will be 10 years down the road when my child is using it. In my opinion, she will probably not even know what a paperback book is.

 I feel like the replacement of print is a bad thing. Some people do not have access to the internet or even the proper knowledge to use it. Books are also more of a credited source to use for research than internet. The findings in books are usually verified before being published. That is why I believe print is very important and should not be replaced. Although the internet is convenient, it is not 100% accurate, and that is not a risk I would like to take when doing research.

      Hello! My name is Karen Fann and I am twenty-five years old. I have been married for four years now, to a wonderful man named Ricque Fann, who is an Army Veteran. I am extremely proud of my husband for his time served in the Military and the sacrifice he made to fight for our country. My husband and I have a beautiful little girl together named Daphney who is two years old. She is a remarkable child with allot of personality and spirit. I am very proud of the both of them.

    My daughter and husband are the greatest blessing of my life. They have been my encouragement to go back to school. They are the reason I want more out of life, especially, my daughter. I want to be a good example for her and my family. I want to be the example, that it is never too late to get an education and to fulfill ones dream.

    I am on my second semester of college at Black River Tech. It has not been easy so far juggling home life and school, but it has been more successful than I anticipated. I am very thankful for the opportunity to go back to school.

    English II is my first online class so far. I have to admit I am nervous about the outcome of this course. I am new to Moodle and still have a lot to learn about using it, but I am up for the challenge.  I look forward to continuing this blog, and sharing about myself and family with everyone.