A Comparison/Contrast
essay is an essay in which you compare something or contrast something, or do
both: compare and contrast. To compare
something means to emphasize the similarities between two or more things,
concepts, or emotions. To contrast
something is to emphasize the differences between two or more things, concepts,
or emotions. But explaining something
rarely falls into neat little compartments and quite often an author will
emphasize how two things, ideas, or concepts are the same and different in order to convey a purpose.
In life we are
constantly comparing and contrasting. We
do this in order to argue for what we believe in or what we want. And we do it about something as benign as a
new cell phone app to something very serious such as a relationship. And while most of us are used to making these
comparisons/contrasts verbally, in college and in high school, you will be
required to do this on paper about very complex ideas. In a nutshell, this analytical process—compare/contrast--
helps us make sense of the world in which we live.
There are two classic organizational
patterns for a comparison/contrast essay. One is called block
format and the other is called point-by-point. Below
is an outline highlighting both patterns of organization. Notice that this hypothetical essay would be
examining the difference between vacationing in the mountains or at a beach.
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The above outlines represent a very simplistic strategy. Remember, most topics do not neatly fall into
simple categories and they may require not only a discussion on how they are
different, but also how they are the same.
Some authors might discuss a topic’s similarities within an introduction
and then use the bodied paragraphs to discuss their differences, or vice
versa. And then some authors may feel
the need for a more elaborate discussion where differences and similarities are
discussed point-by-point.
Just remember the most basic rule of thumb when writing: A paragraph is created when a new idea is introduced. You may have several paragraphs to compare/contrast your topic and can even combine the block strategy with the point-by-point strategy. So let your common sense dictate the organization of your essay.
For more explanations on Compare Contrast Essays, click on this link: http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/compcontrast/
DUE DATES:
Your Compare/Contrast Essay: Post By Friday, July 5th.
Your Comments on Two of your Peer's Essays: Post By Monday, July 8th.
Please be advised of the following:
This is a Graded Assignment of Pass/Fail. No Rubric included; but nonsense writing will not receive credit--and this includes pointless comments to your peers such as: "I really liked your essay" or "I never knew how to change a tire before and now I know." You need to practice noticing details or the lack thereof. But make your comments supportive and meaningful; otherwise, don't comment and just lose part of the credit.
Use Net Etiquette when responding to your peers, i.e., "Dear Kanoe" and "Sincerely Michael."
This is a Graded Assignment of Pass/Fail. No Rubric included; but nonsense writing will not receive credit--and this includes pointless comments to your peers such as: "I really liked your essay" or "I never knew how to change a tire before and now I know." You need to practice noticing details or the lack thereof. But make your comments supportive and meaningful; otherwise, don't comment and just lose part of the credit.
Use Net Etiquette when responding to your peers, i.e., "Dear Kanoe" and "Sincerely Michael."
Do not adhere to MLA format for your essay, meaning heading, spacing, font, and such; otherwise, your essay will take up too much room on the blog site. But give your essay a title.
Include your name and the name of your Academy at the end of the essay.
Most importantly: Have Fun! Writing should be fun and not painful. So find something that makes you want to share it with others. This way you will be able to do your best work and practice what makes a good writer: Someone who cares deeply and passionately about their subject. Once you care about your topic/subject, the rest of the essay becomes easy.
A Starting Pitcher and a Closer
ReplyDeleteThere could be a whole controversy on who’s more important, a starting pitcher or closing pitcher. It is pretty much all your opinion. These two players are definitely two of the most important players on the baseball diamond, but they have two totally different jobs. Even though it seems they do the same thing, which is pitch. There jobs are like being a construction worker and a doctor, totally different things. The thing is, starting pitchers start the game, while closers close the game, but starting pitchers are the most important type of pitcher on the baseball diamond.
The first difference between these two athletes is the time of arrival. The time that they come into the game. The starting pitcher comes into the beginning of the game, or the start of the game. The closing pitcher comes in to end the game, or close the game. The starting pitchers main job is to get the game going well for his team. He must come out playing to win. If the starting pitcher comes out the first inning and shuts the other team down, the whole team becomes pumped and ready to play. If he comes out sluggish, the team becomes sluggish. He is the spark to the fire. On the other hand the closer’s job is to get the game done as fast as possible. It really doesn’t matter how, as long as its fast and efficient.
Another difference between the starting pitcher and the closer is the amount of pitches thrown. The starting pitcher can throw as much pitches as he wants. His pitch count usually goes up into the hundreds. This is because he usually throws more balls then the closer. The closer usually tries to throw just strikes. Starting pitchers usually have about four or five different pitches.The closer usually has only two or three. The closer is more plain and simple. He hits his spots, and throws fairly hard. So in actuality, the starting pitcher throws a lot more then the closer does.
And the last difference is how they attempt and face the batter. Starting pitchers usually like to play with batters and work the count depending on how good the batter is. Sometimes they go after them quick, and other times they relax and take their time. They throw all kind of off speed pitches such as curve balls, change-ups, sliders, and many more. Now the closer is totally different. He usually just comes right after the batters. He comes at them hard and fast. Three pitches they usually use is the 4 seam fastball, 2 seam fastball, and a cutter. All these pitches have little break, but are very efficient.
There are many different ways a starting pitcher could argue that he is not better, but more important then the closer, and there is many ways that the closer could say that he is more important than the starter. This argument can really never be solved. It will always be on how your opinion is. Some people think starters are more important and others think that closers are more important. Honestly the world will never know. It will always just be, the starting pitchers start the game, while the closers close the game, but in my opinion, the starters are the most important pitchers in the game of baseball.
Chaz Pacleb
Hopes academy
Dear Chaz,
DeleteI enjoyed reading your essay. It shows that you knew a lot about the topic because of your detail that you put into each paragraph. Going back and forth between a starting pitcher and closing pitcher really makes the essay effective.
-Bryson Baligad
Dear Chaz,
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your essay. You showed a lot of detail in your essay by giving specific detail in each paragraphs. Showing great detail with your starting and closing pitchers shows me that you know a lot about pitching and giving readers the idea of being either pitcher. Great job and keep up the good work!
Kristian Sablay
Dear chaz,
DeleteI really agree with you that both is important in the game of baseball. I like how you gave specofoc details in each paragraph between both pitchers. I also enjoy your choice of words. I like your essays they have a lot of effort and meaning
Joshua Blaine
Consuming Fresh foods instead of canned foods.
ReplyDeleteFace it, eating is one of the activities that we as humans love to do a total of 2-3 times a day. In this time of the world food comes in a much larger amount of, and we try to maintain a reasonable amount of food to consume. What this essay is about the compare and contrast of the many differences about fresh foods instead of canned foods. The three main differences are health differences, cost, and the flavor of the food.
The most notable thing between the two types of foods is its flavors. Fresh foods have great flavors and a great taste because they have a fresh and natural taste to provide with nutrients. Canned food on the other hand, lacks a lot of things, such as flavor and nutrients of the original food. Canned food does contain chemicals to add the missing nutrients from the food. It is true that the fresher the food the better your taste and nutrients will be, the only downside to this is that the amount of time it will take to make the food that you want.
Another difference between the two types of food is the cost of the product. Canned foods are much more expensive than fresh foods. The benefits of buying food that is in a can is that it is much easier to obtain. An example to that is in a market you can find a lot of fresh food, and in a supermarket you can expect to see processed and canned food. Canned food doesn’t take a lot of time to prepare with fresher foods.
If you were to compare the types of food you can see some differences from one another. A health factor that affects both the types of foods Fresh food can maintain the nutrients of its source for a long period of time. With canned foods, you are unable to obtain the amount of nutrients because it sits in a chemical for a long period of time in an airtight (sealed) can.
There are three main differences between buying fresh foods and canned foods. As we could probably see picking our foods come to a personal choice. Its is based on how much a person is willing to spend, how much time the person is willing to prepare the foods, and importance of the persons health. I strongly consider the importance of the best food types and what types will help you fit your lifestyle.
Kristian Sablay
Hopes academy
Dear Kristian,
DeleteYour fourth paragraph summed up the main points of your essay quickly and efficiently. That paragraph took points from all of the other paragraphs to deliver the main points or the "meat" of the essay in a straightforward manner. Your last sentence was also good because it added a personal challenge or a thought-spurring statement. Nice essay!
-Matthew Steinohrt
Dear Kristian
DeleteI liked that you opened your essay with a fact and something about it made me want to read further in your essay. I also liked how "full" your essay was of information. Each paragraph seemed even better than the last one. Good essay!
Mason Schwarze
Two Views of My Parents: When I Was Little and Now
ReplyDeleteWhen you were little, your parents were superheroes. People who were better than you at almost every thing in every way. You wouldn’t have been able to live without them. They meant everything to you and (hopefully) you meant everything to them. Then, you became a teenager and slowly realized that your parents are human and are not superheroes. Now, you can see their flaws as well as strengths. The difference in the way you view your parents changes greatly from when you were little and now.
When I was little, my parents were perfect, wonderful, happy, nice and caring people. My filter for them was all roses. I could not have survived without them. They took care of me so I loved them. When I played games with them, they beat me even when they went easy. They were the best at everything that I knew of and could not fathom anyone being better than them. It wasn’t embarrassing for them to hold my hand when we crossed the road or hug me in front of my friends.That’s how most relationships with parents occur when you are little. It is a natural way to feel about your parents.
Then, you grow up and your filter changes. You take in everything about your parents. Their faults as well as their strengths. Now, when you race, or challenge each other in any sport, they don’t go easy. In my case, I can pretty much beat my parents in any physical activity. Now, your parents are not superheroes. They are regular human beings. They embarrass you in front of your friends and do things that make you just want to disappear from the situation. You start to realize your parents aren’t perfect which is one of the many things that change in your mind as you grow up.
Now, I fondly remember when life was simpler. When I could rely on my parents for anything and everything. When I could never beat them at anything. When they were superheroes. I would think that other people wish they could be little kids again as well. Maybe, it’s because we slowly become jaded to the wonderful parents filter or because we naturally veer away from them. No matter what the reason, the way you view your parents as you grow up changes immensely.
Matthew Steinohrt
Ideas Academy
Dear Matthew,
DeleteI really enjoyed the topic you chose to write about. I liked how you said, as little kids we all believed are parents were superheroes, but as we grow up we now see their flaws and strengths in life. I liked how you're essay was easy to follow and read. Anyway, great essay!
-Amanda
Dear Matthew,
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your essay, i love the topic that your wrote about. My favorite part about this essay was that we as kids had the imagination of our parents being superheroes . Great job on the essay, keep up the good work!
Kristian Sablay
School vs. Work
ReplyDeleteWe all go to school as kids. We spend 12 years of our lives going to school, and most go on to college for an average of four years. Then once we finish our years of school, we start working to make a living. But what’s the difference between school and work?
Well for starters, you go to school to get a good job. The more you go to school, the more money you make when you finally start to work. School is like the base layer for when you work. You pay to go to school, then get paid to go to work. School is a requirement though, while work is pretty much an option. Yes you need to work to make money to live, but hey you can still live off of your parents if you choose to.
Another difference is that you can make your work schedule to fit your lifestyle, school doesn’t give you that option. When you apply for a job you fill out the hours you are available to work. In school, they really don’t care about what you want or if your busy. If you’re not in school it’s truancy without a note from your parents or legal guardians. However, if you’re not in work without calling in first, you may lose your job. But at least you can call someone to fill in for you. You can’t exactly tell someone to go to school for you.
Yet another difference is the people around you. High school is meant to be happy years of your life, but in reality you go to school only to be judged, bullied, backstabbed, and so on. Work people still have that, but it’s not made into a big deal like it is in school because it just wastes time and effort. So there is less drama in the working life.
In conclusion, yes work and school has their similarities, but they also have their differences. Such as getting paid, choosing hours, and peers, but there are many more differences as well. But in the end we spend our whole lives either in school or working.
Naea Oda
Hopes Academy
Dear Naea,
DeleteGreat essay! That is all so true. Reading this essay makes work actually almost sound enjoyable compared to school haha.
Sincerely,
Elise McDonald
Dear Naea
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your essay. I Find it very true! You do spend pretty much your whole life in school or at work. But you should also love what your doing so it does not ever become boring. I also liked when you added the part where it says we always are getting Judged bullied or backstabbed. That is very true in your high school years, but it is also a very fun time of your life. Your essay was very enjoyable and fun to read
Chaz Pacleb
Dear Naea
DeleteThe topic of your essay was great because it is so relevant to us now. Some people don't understand that you're always going to have to go to school or to work so it is good that you cleared that up early in your essay. I also liked that you compared and contrasted the boldest point of school and work as opposed to lesser ones.
Mason Schwarze
Reading a book vs. Watching the Movie
ReplyDeleteTo read or not to read – that is the question. Great books always seem to turn into not so great movies. But why is it that the movie is never as great as the book? They just never seem to capture the true thoughts and feelings of the characters, and leave out some of the most important details. On the other hand, movies take less time to tell the story and require less thinking than reading a book does.
One of the best parts of reading a book is that you get to know your characters thoughts. In a book you learn how they truly feel about a situation. Even the greatest actors can’t portray these thoughts and feelings with just facial expressions. The characters in books have more depth than could be displayed in a short movie.
Since the movie is just a condensed version of the book, often key details can be left out. This can be one of the most frustrating things about reading a book and then seeing the movie. Another reason details may be left out, is that the movie may want to stay within a certain rating. For example, if a book is too violent for the target audience of the movie, some of the violence may be toned down.
The good thing about seeing the movie instead of reading the book is that the movie takes less time to tell the story. This is great if you don’t plan on reading the book and just want an idea of what the story is about. It’s not so great if you’re planning on writing a report about the book.
So should you read the book? Or see the movie? Overall the book is better than the movie if you want to know more about your character and all of the details of the story. Even if it takes more time to read the book, in my opinion, it’s worth it.
Marissa Nikolas
HOPES Academy
Dear Marissa,
DeleteI loved the topic you chose. it's so true when they base a movie off the book it always ends up being worse, due to the fact that they left out all the details. anyway, great essay!
-Amanda
Dear Marissa,
DeleteI loved how your essay started with that quote from hamlet. It really drew me in to thinking that this essay will be an interesting one and it certainly was! I particularly don't like reading but when I do read a book then watch the movie, the movie does seem to leave out some details I would think would be a vital part in the movie. But then again it could be switched because some books I read weren't as great as the movie because you could physically see the action played right in front of you! I really loved the topic of your essay and how everything flowed nicely.
sincerely,
Keisha Aki
Dear Marissa,
DeleteI really liked your second paragraph, I think you thoroughly explained how many more things you can take in from a book rather than a movie. It was well written, fun and easy to relate to!
Haylei Sheldon
Dear Marissa,
DeleteYour introduction really draws attention to the essay, well written! I also enjoyed reading about your comparison with reading and watching a movie. You defined it perfectly.
DREAM VACATION AND REAL VACATION
ReplyDeleteThe definition of a vacation is different for each person. Some perceive it to be a chance to sit back and relax. Others see a vacation as a time to have fun and do lots of activities and maybe even some learning. Vacation or holidays are often spent with friends or family. Experiencing a vacation, there are two ways on how we can relax through this thing. They are having the real vacation and the dream vacation.
Dream vacation is the trip in our own likes. A dream vacation is usually called a, “Dream Vacation,” because it’s what we hope to do. Most people can’t afford thousands of dollars into a vacation, so as people, we all dream of what we would love to do one day. We can decide our own activities to be held during the trip. We can have exotic tropical island vacations, luxury and adventure cruises, romantic getaways, honeymoon packages, safaris, and tours. For example, an island with some of the most beautiful beaches, bays and underwater attractions we could find in the world.
Besides, we can have the panoramic mountains, narrow passes and gaps provide us with some of the finest and spectacular views we could find anywhere. We can enjoy hiking, jungle trekking and sight seeing there. For example, beautiful lakes, magnificent waterfalls, historic canals, flat and wild rivers, calm and quiet lagoons, marshes, lush greenery, pristine beaches, impossibly blue waters, and breath-taking expanses of beauty and nature create a location so unique. We can have swimming and snorkelling and enjoying the God’s aquatic creatures.
On the other hand, real vacation is the true vacation activities. These are the certain vacations that are not fully interested for us, due to us not sharing the same interests with the others on the trip. Apart from that, most real vacations you will be on a budget and can't do everything one wishes. A real vacation is something that we had accomplished. There, experiences are really true and realistic. This vacation is something that you can treasure thorough the real situation of memories. Not all things that you want always happen here. You just have to enjoy to those limited
In conclusion, dream vacation will become the real one if we put some efforts to have the real exciting vacation trip. However, we cannot jump into a very high dream as we can fall down without the attempt. We should have a plan for any vacation trip and prepare the money it is going to cost. No matter if it’s a real vacation or a dream vacation, we must work hard for our own future, it’s the best way to us to enjoy our life.
Amanda Thayer
Hopes Academy
I
Dear Amanda,
DeleteI love how you said "dream vacations can become the real one". It's so true! I know that dream vacations sound like the best thing ever, and I always hope to go on one myself, but any trip normally turns out to be an amazing one since I'm off this island! Any way, great essay.
Sincerely,
Elise McDonald
Dear Amanda,
DeleteYour essay made it very easy to visualize all of the places you were talking about. You're so right about real vacations not living up to your expectations. Any vacation is great though! Great job!
Sincerely,
Marissa Nikolas
Dear Amanda,
DeleteI loved your essay and how you made us visualize all the places. They way you wrote it made the reader imagine both their dream vacation and the real one. It was very relatable. I would love either type of vacation, just as long as its a vacation! Haha. Good job!
Sincerely,
Naea Oda
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteCompare and Contrast - Parenting Styles
ReplyDeleteSchizophrenia is defined as a disorder that makes it hard to: Tell the difference between what is real and not real; think clearly; have normal emotional responses; act normally in social situations.
Well, that pretty much describes my shared custody existence in both my mom’s and dad’s household. Don’t get me wrong; I enjoy spending time with both of my parents, but I sometimes find myself doing a balancing act between the two parenting styles and households.
At my dad’s house, I have my dad, his girlfriend, and his girlfriend’s daughter. It’s crazy there. My dad’s girlfriend and her daughter both have bi-polar disorder, so that always makes an interesting day. At my moms house I have my mom and our psychotic dog that NEVER stops barking.
My dad is quite of the hoarder, where as my mom is a neat freak type of person. At my dad’s house, the T.V. is normally on, where at my mom’s house, KONG radio is always on. There is quite a sedentary type of lifestyle at my dads, like if you want to run, go run, if you want to eat, go eat. But you do have to do everything for yourself. Nobody will do things for you. I have to be overly active at my moms, which is quite a shock when I’m just coming back from my dads. I’m not allowed to just sit in my cave (my mom’s way of referring to my room) on Tumblr or play Skyrim all day. I have to go outside..and do things (hiss sunlight).
As an approach to lifestyle, my dad is a real procrastinator. But he is probably the smartest guy you will ever meet, with multiple degrees and more knowledgeable experiences than anyone. What I find amazing is that he has a different password for every account he has! Which is probably over 30. My mom is a get-stuff-done-a-day-early type of person (which is why it’s ironic I’m turning this essay in the day it’s due). She is also quite the list maker. I wake up every morning when I’m at her house to a list of things to do.
Though I have the challenge of learning to live with the differences of their parenting styles, my parents do have one thing in common, and that is their love for me and their desire for me to be successful and happy in life.
Elise McDonald
IDEAS
Dear Elise,
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your essay. It was an interesting topic that grabbed my attention. Your introduction was especially very creative to the essay instead of just starting to talk about your mom or dad. Great job!
Sincerely,
Jenna :)
Dear Elise,
DeleteThe way you introduced you essay was very unique. It was a nice change of pace from all the other essays that were posted. Your ability to connect the two topics really showed your level of writing ability. Also the way you snuck in small bits of humor kept the essay exciting and captivating.
Sincerely,
Wylie Barker
Dear Elise,
DeleteI 100% agree with what wylie said about your opening paragraph, it grabbed my attention and made me want to read more! I'm also totally on the same page with you because both of my parents have such different parenting styles as well. It was also well written and nicely organized.
Haylei Sheldon
Picking an interplanetary vacation: Earth vs. Mars
ReplyDeleteThe planets Earth and Mars are often compared and are known as “sister planets” because of their size and their similarities in relation to those of other planets. Although they have more in common than any two other planets in our Solar System, it is still important to evaluate their differences when planning an interplanetary vacation. The most important aspects of these two planets are related to their climates, their inhabitants, and their physical characteristics.
The climate on mars cannot be found on earth. The climate of mars is one big desert of red dirt, there is no liquid water so a vacation there would be more like a vacation to Africa except cooler. The temperature is actually very cold , averaging at about -80 degrees F. However, if you stay closer to the equator in the summer you might actually experience an earthlike temperature at up to 70 degrees F. Earth certainly has better climates, there is more variation(from mountains to deserts to seas) and better temperatures more fit to human needs. Although the temperature on mars can be comfortable at its highest points, I’d advise bringing winter clothes.
When vacationing somewhere, the people and other inhabitants there could seriously influence your decisions. If the nicest part of town was a gangster zone, you probably wouldn’t go there without guaranteed protection. Newlyweds or just overall quiet people would probably enjoy mars’ population of 0 because of the silence; you could really get some alone time on mars. On the contrary, most desirable vacation areas on earth are populated. Which planet has “better” inhabitants is debatable and simply comes down to personal preference.
If you care much about gravity and being able to breathe, you may want to look into each planet’s physical characteristics. Mars has about 38% as much gravity as earth so you could call it one third. Low gravity is undeniably better than higher gravity because you can jump high and be stronger. Having low gravity will make every part of your vacation better. In terms of atmosphere, mars has a MUCH thinner atmosphere than earth, this is part of the reason that mars is so cold as aforementioned. A thinner atmosphere also means that you are more vulnerable to the sun’s rays which makes proper clothing a must.
Overall, which planet suits you and your needs is a matter of personal opinion. Earth has a more entertaining climate whereas mars has low gravity. Earth has inhabitants whereas mars does not. If you think that low gravity and more to do equal each other out, then the choice of where to vacation comes down to inhabitants. Basically, if you want some quiet alone time for you and yours then you should go to mars and if you want to socialize then you should go somewhere on earth.
Mason
IDEAS
Dear Mason,
DeleteI thought your essay was very entertaining to read. I thought it was interesting that near the equator of Mars in the summer the temperature is almost like Earth. Great and entertaining essay topic!
Sincerely,
Jenna :)
Dear Mason,
DeleteYour mix of actual scientific fact and information along with the funny yet absurd idea of traveling to Mars was a made a very interesting essay. Based on your essay, I think I might actually choose Mars. I would however, suggest that next time you make sure to capitalize all of those "Mars" and "Earths." Nonetheless, nice essay!
-Matthew Steinohrt
Real Vacation vs. Dream Vacation
ReplyDeleteMany people work tirelessly to plan and carry out their “dream vacation”, though few ever succeed in creating such a fantasy. Lets be real; vacations hold unexpected surprises and events that are out of your control. Although having a real vacation is always relaxing and enjoyable, dream vacations go the way you expect them to.
The main point of a vacation is to get away from a stressful environment, whether it be work, school, or some other institution that you don’t enjoy. Real vacations are usually at a location that isn’t too far away from your office or classroom. These vacations involve making the best out of what you have in front of you. However, dream vacations can take you to, well, the place of your dreams! A person can be taken halfway across the world in their dream vacation. But, alas, these are only a dream.
Most vacations must stay within a budget. You saved every penny you had to go to that fancy hotel, now you have to spend wisely. That means picking up food to take back to the hotel or hoping for an all-you-can-eat buffet during your stay. But the vacation of your dreams has no limit on how much to spend. It’s as if you were Bill Gates for a week. Now, doesn’t that sound extraordinary?
Although real and dream vacations are quite opposite of each other, they share one similarity; people. No matter where you go, how much you spend, or how much you dream, the people with you will always make the trip that much more special. Whether it be your family or close friends, a vacation can always be enjoyed, whether it be at the local Marriott or Paris, France.
So, next time you try to turn your dream vacation into a reality, remember that it doesn't always have to be under the Eiffel Tower. It can be anywhere, as long as there are good people and a buffet nearby.
Bryson Baligad
IDEAS
Coke Vs. Pepsi
ReplyDeleteAlmost everyone has a preference between the two, unless you don’t soda. Some people can’t tell the difference between the two or like both however. There are big differences between the two in different aspects. My personal preference is Pepsi over Coke.
Nutritionally, they are both bad for you as they are both soda, however, there are very small differences in the nutrition facts. Coke has fifteen more mg of sodium than Pepsi. Pepsi has ten more calories than Coke, and two more carbs. Also, Pepsi contains four more mg of caffeine. Overall, health-related they are quite similar.
Back in the day there was a soda war between the two companies, in which Coke for a very long time was on top. During the Great Depression Pepsi won because it was cheaper than Coke but was still regarded as the number two soda in America. Finally, in 1979, Pepsi overtook Coke sales, but it didn’t last and Coke again rose to the top. Pepsi then surrendered to branch out into other things and the wars ended. So in respect to the soda wars, Coke won.
Comparing the taste between the two sodas is where the difference is. This fact is the main decision on which soda people like more. Pepsi tastes sweeter than Coke, and it just depends if you like sweet things or not. In 1982, Coke changed it’s recipe to make Coke sweeter because Pepsi was making more revenue, but received such negative reviews and upset that they changed the recipe back. Here’s something from an article I read for your entertainment, and to express the strong disappointment from Coke fans during the time,
“An oft-repeated, although possibly apocryphal, story might go someway to explaining. It tells how a Coke delivery driver in Marietta, Georgia was attacked by a woman with an umbrella while stacking cans of the new Coke. “You bastard,” she screamed at him, “you ruined it – it tastes like ----!” When a Pepsi driver, who was also present, burst out laughing the angry woman turned her anger on him yelling: “You stay out of it! This is family business. Yours is worse than ----!””
I personally like the sweet taste of Pepsi better than Coke, however.
Both sodas are of their own, whichever one you like is your own preference. Based on nutrition facts they are similar to your health. Coke won in the soda wars but there are still fans of both sodas. The decision is most likely based on which one tastes better to you. So which soda are you a fan of?
Dear Jenna,
DeleteI am one of those people that you described in your introduction. Your essay helped me to understand the differences between pepsi and coke, that I had no clue were even there. I liked how you took the time to share the nutritional facts, history, and even an excerpt. I think the combination of those three things really helped to get your point across, as well as your opinion. Keep up the good writing.
Sincerely,
Autumn Begley
Dear Jenna,
DeleteI think it was a very good move to choose a topic where many people are supporters of both sides. It helped engage your readers. The way you included historical evidence as well and nutritional facts bolstered your arguments and made your essay seem much more reliable.
Sincerely,
Wylie Barker
Dear Jenna
DeleteThe details in your essay were good,I liked how you use historical facts in your essay, it can catch a readers attention. great essay.
Sincerely,
Camilla Vernon
Reality vs. Imagination
ReplyDeleteHave you ever have had a time when your sitting there thinking of something and it's so vivid in your mind that for that split second it almost seems real. Well it's that split second is the difference between reality and imagination. All that's wanted from time to time is for that thought to become real.
Now imagine. Most of the time when someone tells you to imagine you think of a different and mostly a better thing. Why imagine something worse well(in the right mind) you won't. This can take you from a hard place to peace. Living in the clouds can lead to bad but it can also be a get away. To take you away from things you don't need.
Now comeback. Reality, we live in it the thing we can't escape. But at the same time we need it. This is what keeps us in the world. The place we live may also bring us down. But reality is life and you have to be there. Have you ever seen those full grown people that are basically still children. Well that's what happens when you strictly live in the clouds.
Imagination is what some adults need to do from time to time. While some of the young adult/teens need to enter the reality of life. So overall life needs to be a mixture of both of these things. You need to jump in the clouds but know when to have both feet on the ground.
Dear Noah,
DeleteI agree that some adults need to be able to have an escape route to where they don't need to drowned in the stress. Even if our imagination can consume us and get the best of us we still need to realize that what we dream can become realistic if you strive for it. By the way I like how your essay got right down to the point of the differences between reality and imagination. Great job.
Sincerely,
Keisha Aki
Dear Noah,
DeleteGreat essay! You captured the reality of things, yes adults do need to be able to have imagination while teens need a little bit more reality. You were right about the balance part.
Sincerely,
Naea Oda
Dear Noah,
DeleteWonderful essay. It was short and sweet, which I think worked in your benefit. You were able to get your opinions and main ideas out without becoming too wordy, which in most cases would eventually begin to bore people. Also the essay felt very complete and was very straight to the point. Good job!
Sincerely,
Autumn Begley
Noah,
DeleteI love when you said, "Reality, we live in it the thing we can't escape. But at the same time we need it. This is what keeps us in the world. The place we live may also bring us down. But reality is life and you have to be there." I am really able to relate to this right now. I feel like you couldnt have stated this better.
Sincerely,
Kai Chase
Childhood Days Vs. Now
ReplyDeleteI remember preschool like it was yesterday. Being able to take naps, have snack time, fun games from time to time, and coloring till my was but little stubs. I pretty much hung around most of my guy friends because they loved to run a muck and just laugh till they cried. It was probably the best time of my life. Who wouldn’t want to just hangout and have fun with friends? After school I would be able to do mostly whatever I wanted to. You could say that I was spoiled. I had absolutely no care in the world.
As time went on everything became harder and more demanding. School became the place where you need to fit in everywhere and have a bunch of people who you call friends but secretly hate. You would need to work your but off in classes so you could maintain your grades and not slip behind and fail. Then, there is teachers giving you more than enough homework and giving out surprise tests that count for more than half your grade. Doesn’t childhood seem like heaven right about now? Granted, you get exceeding grades and still do many sport, you can’t get away from the daily chores. Chores is something that I would have never done as a child, but as you grow older you obtain more responsibilities.
If I had the choice I would definately go back to the more golden years where I didn’t need to worry about anything. But I wouldn’t change anything because everything that I have experienced made me the person I am today and I’m loving every second of my life right now. Even if the past was a little more better than my present I’m looking forward to have an even brighter future.
Keisha Aki
HOPES Academy
Dear Keisha
ReplyDeleteI really liked the details you chose to support your topic. The things such as how kindergarden days were so great and golden. How we could have no worries in the world and just have fun. I also really like how you explained how everything got harder and more demanding as life went on. How you need to fit in everywhere at school, and how thou need to make grades and not fall behind. Your story makes a lot of sense and was great to read.
Chaz Pacleb
Single Vs. Taken
ReplyDeleteA typical single teenage girl will drown out her “forever alone blues” by watching a heart wrenching Nicholas Sparks movie, just wishing that she had a Walk to Remember. Many nights are also spent wondering what it must be like to be one of the so called, lucky few who have found their prince charming. But, is being in a relationship really that great? There are quite a few factors that can vouch for why being single is good, as well as why being taken is good. I personally believe that being in a relationship is wonderful! As long as you’re with the right person, for the right reasons.
Young love can be a very beautiful thing. All the late night conversations, good morning/ good night texts, dinner dates, and the small gifts that mean so much, are what most people perceive a customary relationship to be like. Don’t get me wrong, that is a part of it, but a true relationship is so much more than that. Once you’re with someone, not only do you commit to them, but you also commit to their friends and family as well. You can also kiss your freedom and money goodbye, because eventually all those dates, and gifts will add up. On the bright side of things you have someone you can turn to when times get rough, and even a prom date.
Don’t turn down single life just yet though. An Irish writer and poet named Oscar Wilde once said, “It’s very healthy to spend time alone. You need to know how to be alone and not be defined by another person.” Being single can help you in a deeper way than you could ever hope to imagine, because you will learn to love yourself and be independent. Aside from the depressing facts such as lonely valentine’s days, and the thoughts that kill you inside, single life has many benefits. The main one being, that you have the option of flirting whenever and with whoever you want (as long as they’re single too). Also you won’t have to worry about buying gifts, not having enough money, or being accused of ditching your friends for your girlfriend or boyfriend.
Although being single and being taken are two very different situations, they do have one main similarity. Happiness. Whether you have a significant other or not, you can be extremely happy in life if you don’t allow your relationship status to define you. Other things such as how successful you become in life, and what choices you make can be affected, but for the most part you have the final decision so it’s your choice either way.
When it comes down to the nitty gritty of single vs. taken, it’s really a matter of opinion. If you’re a hopeless romantic, with a kind an affectionate heart, then you will probably enjoy being in a relationship. On the other hand, if you enjoy your freedom and value personal space and privacy, then you should probably stay single. Despite all of this, I believe that everyone deserves love and eventually even the people who put up the biggest walls will find someone who tears them down in seconds. So keep an open mind.
Autumn Begley
Hopes Academy
Dear Autumn,
DeleteI really like the topic you chose, and i believe that you compared/contrasted this really well. I absolutely love your introduction. The sentence with the Nicholas Sparks part was a perfect touch to your intro. Keep up the great writing :)
Sincerely, Ariel
Autumn,
DeleteYour essay was really good. Super clear, and true, and really liked what you had to say. The paragraph before your conclusion was my favorite. It really wrapped everything up nicely by explaining that happiness should depend on yourself, not by who you are or aren't with. this is such a complex topic for those with and with out an other half, nice to hear your take on it!
zuri
Dear Autumn,
DeleteI really enjoyed your essay. The topic was very good and you showed good points for each relationship status. I really loved the end when you said it all comes down to what makes you happy because I believe that to be so true.
Sincerely,
Mo'o
Harvard vs. Stanford
ReplyDeleteCollege is something that is on the forefront of most of our minds at the moment, or at least it should be. Picking a college is an important decision that will take control over the next 4 years of our lives or more. Picking a college isn’t something you can do out of a catalog. It’s something that takes more time and focus than just looking at their rank on U.S. News. Colleges are all different, almost like people. Each one has its own priorities, interests, strengths and weaknesses. Two of the colleges in the United States with the highest reputations are Harvard and Stanford. This doesn’t exactly mean they are the best but the most distinguished by what people think of them. To try and figure out what may make one school better than the other you first must choose the level of degree you are looking at. For our purposes we are doing Undergraduate degrees. Now maybe one day you will be lucky enough to have to pick between going to Harvard or Stanford.
Harvard is a 4-year university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It’s a coed school, it’s also mainly a residential campus. Harvard is a medium sized university with 6,658 undergraduate and 1,662 freshman. It’s an ethnically diverse school with a student body of 45% caucasian, 19% asian, 11% foreign, 9% Hispanic, 7% African American, 9% other. With a 49% to 51% female to male ratio. This makes for a campus and learning environment with very diverse ideas and cultures. Now with all these positive aspects they have extremely an large amount of applicant. A total of 34,303. Out of all these applicant only 2,076 get admitted and 1,664 enroll. This equals out to a 6% acceptance rate. The average SAT score are 77% percent of students score between 2,120-2,380. The ACT scores show that 90% of student score between 30 & 36. All of these things might show how amazing this school is but for most people it comes down tuition. The total amount per year including tuition, room and board, books and supplies and personal expenses comes out to $59,950. Meaning for 4 years you would pay $239,800. This seems impossible for most middle class families which is why they supply financial aid of about $44,794 per freshman on average. Overall every little thing that you look at in a college plays a role in your final decision.
Stanford is a 4 year university located in Palo Alto California. It’s also a coed school and a predominantly residential campus. Stanford is slightly larger than Harvard with 7,063 undergrads and 1,762 freshman. The ethnic diversity is 38% caucasian, 19% asian, 17% hispanic, 7% foreign, 6% African American, 11% other. They have a 48% to 52% female to male ratio. This shows how diverse they are in picking students. Stanford has more applicant then Harvard with 36,632 and accepts 2,423 of which 1,765 enroll. Giving them an acceptance rate of 6.6%. The SAT score average is 2,080-2,350 for 69% percent of the students and ACT is 31-34 for 87%. These standards make the tuition very high at $60,421 including tuition, room and board, books and supplies, personal expenses, and transportation. Adding up to a total of 241,684 for 4 years. Financial aid on average per freshman is $41,894.
Both of these schools are ranked at top in the world. Harvard is a slightly small school yet has a larger student to administrator ratio. Stanford is larger and costs more. They both have similar SAT and ACT averages but their environments are very different. On opposite sides of the country. Harvard has more caucasian students then Stanford but they both have the same percentage of international and asian students. These schools have different strengths and it really comes down to what you want to get out of college and what you are able to afford. Most of us though won’t be making a decision between these two elite schools.
Wylie Barker
IDEAS
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteDear Wylie,
DeleteOfcourse you would write an essay about these schools. Your details and statistics showed you know a lot and actually cared about the topic, making it interesting to read.
Sincerely,
Colby
Dear Wylie,
DeleteI am really impressed with this essay, and the time you put into it. I am shocked you took all the time to research and insert college statistics into your essay. Great job!
-John
High School TV
ReplyDeleteWe’ve all heard of Keeping Up with the Kardashians, but how can we do that when we’re trying to keep up with all the drama going on in our school? It’s amazing how similar reality TV shows and high schools are alike. Add a camera crew to your high school and it’d get just as much views as Jersey Shore. High schoolers are hormonal children who think that whatever’s on TV is what’s supposed to happen in real life and that is why they try so hard to copy what’s going on in the media.
No matter what people say, the majority of reality TV shows are scripted. Those people may not be actors, but a lot of what they’re saying is rather fake. There’s hardly anything real about reality TV. Even if they’re not reading from a script, they say the things they say for attention and for the camera to notice them and to stay on them. These people want to be on TV and they want to be seen by everyone who has access to a TV so they stop at nothing to get some sort of attention whether or not it’s good.
High school, on the other hand, really isn’t that different. Kids in high school do the things they do to get the attention of their peers and they don’t care if they’re seen as the good guy or the person nobody wants to be with. They don’t care because all they care about is getting people to look at them. They get into relationships because people want them to be together, not because they like that other person. Then they pretend to be heartbroken because that is what people want to happen.
There’s really no big difference between high school and reality TV. The only difference is that people on TV actually get paid. When was the last time you’ve seen a high schooler get paid just for being themselves?
Erica Cabalona
IDEAS Academy
Dear Erica,
DeleteYou always seem to think of such great topics to write about. Share your secret please. Anyways I really like the last sentence in your conclusion. It makes you open your eyes and ask yourself if you are being you. By the way, nice essay.
Sincerely, Ariel
Dear Erica,
DeleteThe fact that you compared such an average thing to the work of famous people is admirable. Especially since you really broke it down to the basics an made me realize that TV is in fact just a bunch of teenagers in their 30's and 40's who get paid.
Sincerely,
Ruby
Pet Lovers: Dogs vs. Cats
ReplyDeleteWhat’s a family without a pet? They bring people closer, are a delight to be around and add that finishing touch to the family. Dogs and cats are the security blankets for most families. Even though they bring the same thing to the table, they’re so different.
Dogs are little creatures full of energy. They’re adventurous, sticking their nose in everything and anything they can. They love to run and exert their spirit in the all time favorite game of fetch. Never getting tired of running to get a ball and bringing it back. Especially if they have a chance to play in the water. They love that.
Cats, on the other hand, are little creatures filled with peacefulness. They enjoy relaxing on couches or the patio. They entertain themselves with a ball of yarn that never seems to untangle. Their soothing ways makes it easy for them to take long naps during the day. And they absolutely hate water.
These two animals are so different, yet share the greatest characteristic, they bring happiness. No type of pet is better than the other, as long as they do their job, bring joy to their family.
Ariel Cummings
HOPES Academy
A Neat Freak and a Slob
ReplyDeleteThere couldn’t be two more opposite people than the neat freaks and the slobs of this world. On one side you have the uptight, stiff, and stubborn neat freaks. Then you have the carefree, messy, and unorganized slobs. Although there are many people who are one way or another, there are also many people who have a little bit of both in them.
The most obvious difference between neat freaks and slobs is their idea of an acceptable cleanliness. Neat freaks need everything spick and span. They need it all to be organized into a specific way. Neat freaks can’t simply leave a little mess and walk away. Extreme neat freaks won’t even be able to watch a few crumbs fall from their friend’s mouth without having it drive them so insane that they rush to clean it up before the friend can even swallow. A pile of clothes on the ground would never fly with a neat freak. How about an unmade bed you ask? Never!
Now as for slobs, those things are the least of their worries! Slobs are messy and they couldn’t care less about it. Slobs don’t worry about organizing things. They don’t clean up after themselves. They don’t put things away after using them. Seeing a dirty house wouldn’t bother them in the least. Dirt, unorganized messes, sloppy piles of food or clothes, and trash puts a slob at ease, but would cause a neat freak to go absolutely insane.
Another difference between neat freaks and slobs are the kinds of personality traits they have. Neat freaks are very stubborn. They like things one way and their way only. They are a little bit on the controlling side. They are more stiff and unmoving on their ideas and beliefs. They don’t adapt well to drastic change and are often scared of it. On the other hand slobs are much more free spirited. (sometimes too free spirited). They go with the flow of things and can adapt easily to a change of plans. They don’t let the little things bother them too much. Slobs are often times more on the lazy side. They tend to care less about things. They are very relaxed and easy going.
Whether you are a total neat freak or a complete slob (or a little bit of both) we need both types of people in this world. Without the neat freaks there would be no one to clean up after the slobs. There would be no one to keep order and organization under control. On the other hand, without the slobs there would be no one too help the neat freaks let loose and have a little bit of fun!
Megan Devin
IDEAS Academy
Dear Megan,
DeleteThe tone you use in your writing makes it almost exciting to read. The question and exclamations added a refreshing touch.
Sincerely,
Colby
Paris/San Sebastian
ReplyDeleteParis and San Sebastian are two very well known places in Europe. They attract millions of people throughout the globe and both have many historical and fascinating attractions, but above all they both have the best food. Even though they are both cities, they are both very different, from the people that live there and where they are located. For people who like the beach, will favor San Sebastian more than art lovers who visit Paris.
San Sebastian is a city located on the coast of Spain in the Basque region near the french border. the climate in San Sebastian is mild all year around. Things to do there (besides going to numerous beaches) you can go to one of the many delicious ice cream shops during the hot summer days, go to the aquarium at the right end of the bay, you can go out to eat Pintxos or also known as Tapas( which also make this city famous), and surf.
Paris, also known as the City of Love, is located in the Northern France region. It is the capital and most populous city in France, in fact it is one of the largest population centers in Europe with over 12 million inhabitants. Summers in Paris are moderately warm and pleasant whereas in winter sunshine is scarce and days are cold. There is an endless list of activities to do in Paris, such as visit the Eiffel tower, spend a couple days or maybe a week touring the famous Louvre museum, walk around the beautiful Tuileries garden, go get a coffee and a sandwich at a cafe, spend a couple more days touring museums, or go see a show at the Moulin Rouge.
I chose to compare and contrast these two places because I have visited both Cities Two years ago and they were my favorite part of my trip to France and Spain. San Sebastian and Paris are different in many ways from the climate to their location. Nonetheless Their richness in culture, and beauty can never be tarnished.
Camilla Vernon
H.O.P.E.S academy
Dear Camilla,
DeleteYou definitely made both of these places seem amazing to visit! I'm not sure if I could pick between the two... From aquariums, ice cream and hot Spanish surfer hotties, to endless art museums, gardens, and world renowned attractions- both these places seem to have my favorite things. Your essay was really good- to the point, no nonsense. I always enjoy your essays.
Love, Zuri
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteA player and a coach
ReplyDeleteThere could be a big argument on which is more important because the player is doing the work while the coach looks as if he is just sitting down doing nothing. Its all personal opinion though. Every position is important. Coach, guard or forward. One could argue that every team needs a star player, but every team also needs a good coach. Players play the game and coaches coach.
The first difference between these two things are the role they play. A players job is to play the game to the best of their abilities and give it their all every game. They are suppose to react to what they see and change their game play depending on what the opponent is doing. This is where players and coaches differ. A coach watches the opponents to see what they are trying to do, how they are doing it and how do they stop them. The coach then tells the players what they can do different.
Another difference between a coach and a star player is the media and attention. In most sports there are superstars. If the team wins the players get the praise and are expected to do that good the next game. The difference with the coach is that if the team was to lose then all the blame would fall to the coach. He would have to answer what he did wrong, what is he going to do different next time, why were they stopped and what will be different. The coach is slammed with both questions and blame for the loss while the players are belted with praise and glory for the win.
The last difference between coaches and players is what I’d have to say: experience. Most players have probably been involved in their sport for maybe about 12-15 years. They know a lot in their sport and are probably very experienced. Coaches differ in experience though. A lot of coaches have usually played the sport from a young age and also played pro. After going pro coaches can choose to retire, become a sports analyst or even coach. Coaches usually are assistant coaches before they become head coaches but head coaches have a lot more experience and diction then players.
There are many ways that one could argue a player is more important. They do all the hard work. They put in the hours. They pour out blood sweat and tears. They’re the ones in the games and not the coaches, but most people don’t notice the work the coaches put in. They don’t see the hours of preparation. The game plans, the rosters, the situations or even the late nights thinking. No one knows really how hard a coach works. So in the end the opinion is in your hands. I believe the coach is most important.
Joshua Blaine
H.O.P.E.S academy
Order Vs Chaos (Part 1)
ReplyDeleteA common misconception a person makes upon a true observation of the world is that it is, in fact, based on things such as morality; Good vs Evil, Justice vs. Injustice. I could go on, but I find such topics to be terribly droll, to truly understand morality, or your interpretation of it, once must look at the motives behind such an act. Does a tyrant kill to instill fear in the populace, or to ward away a greater threat in the near future? Does a millionaire donate to charity out of a sense of duty? Or does he do it to simply enforce a image that he is a good samaritan? With all of this in mind, I hope that it comes to no shock that I instead believe in only one morality, one who is neither light or dark, but inherently grey. With this knowledge I have come to the distinct conclusion that the choices that we make in this world are neither good nor evil, but instead show whether we side with Order or Chaos. Both having their own benefits to humanity, and both having detrimental effects that far exceed what we could do to ourselves otherwise.
Order is associated with civilization, authority, rules, protection, peace, purpose, tradition, and when stretched to its extreme, mindless obedience to the law, fascism and xenophobia. You may compare it to an effectively run government, or you may think of it as the reason laws are put in place for. Order is a natural part of the human mind, we always seek Order from Chaos, whether that be from learning from peers in a school, classifying the things around us, giving names to otherwise inanimate objects. Humanity always has sought Order in one form or another, and Order is generally associated with peace, unity, and strength, however, it could also just as easily be associated with stagnation, corruption and subjugation. Just as Order can bring about an empire that could last for thousands of years, and bring peace and purpose to the nations around it that would never have evolved without them, it can just as easily make the empire devour itself from the inside out if it is unable to adapt to the Chaos that always arises at the end of a societies time.
An excellent example of this in ancient history would be the Holy Roman Empire, who affects our society to this very day in the ways of cultural, military tactics, and in a few cases... social norms. A perfectly ordered society would be one who has stamped out crime, expanding across nations, built a ladder of power, a perfect economy and generally would be viewed as Utopia to the general masses, however, such a society is impossible, as rebellion is all too common in these societies, which almost always are destroyed by their own people. Why would anyone destroy such a society you ask? Why that’s simple, such societies can only be brought about with the sacrifice of things that the people hold dear, social liberties such as privacy and free speech, democracy(when done poorly) and freedom, such things are in direct opposition to the perfect world order, these things could easily be placed on the side of Chaos, but such things are important to the present day majority, which is why the perfect society will never come about without a mass change in the world’s psychology.
Order could also easily be grouped with cynicism, due to its philosophy that the people are unable to govern themselves without also devouring themselves, and that mankind must be artificially advanced or we shall stay in the figurative dark ages for all time.
Ryemin Liddle
H.O.P.E.S Academy
(Part 2 below due to the site being unable to post the entire thing)
Order Vs. Chaos (Part 2)
ReplyDeleteChaos, on the other hand, is associated with change, free will, creativity, individualism, and, when stretched to the extreme, madness, savagery, solipsism and selfish overindulgence, you could consider it the natural enemy of someone with OCD. Chaos is an interesting thing, especially when you contrast it with its natural opposite, Order. The human mind automatically seeks to classify everything around it, to construct, to build, to maintain, with this in mind, how is it possible that men and women begin to seek destruction, freedom and change? Chaos is unique in its ability to be in every society, no matter how ordered. It somehow seeps into our minds like a forbidden fruit, rebellion, freedom, individualism. All these thing appeal to our inner nature for a reason that still remains unclear, we always root for the underdog in a story do we not? Even if the underdog is seeking the destruction of a perfectly ordered, but fascistic government.
Perhaps it is simply human nature to change that which has existed for a long length of time and create anew, after all, destruction must come before creation. Although, sometimes chaos can completely do away with a sense of free will, and instead lean to the far end of destruction and go insane. Why are there men who simply destroy to destroy? Men who have no rules or constrictions and just want to watch the world burn, I say its from a form of mental illness, but perhaps they have just achieved a higher sense of the world then us. But nevertheless, these men are always destroyed in the long run, but sometimes they leave a mark on the world, whether that be in the destruction of an empire or the freeing of slaves.
Chaos is always short lived but has a lasting effect, whereas Order is long lived but temporary. To truly understand the comparison, I would say picture Order as a perfect society positioned in a vast wasteland, a true Utopia, but slowly rotting away from the inside, and to solve this, a sinkhole opens below the city, and swallows it whole, leaving in its wake the possibility of a new society rising from the ashes. That sinkhole is represents Chaos. To finalize, Chaos could also be classified as a sense of Idealism, due to its philosophy that humanity shall advance on its own, and free will is worth protecting, no matter the cost.
So, do you begin to understand my philosophy? I believe it makes perfect sense after enough time to dwell on it. I side completely with order, no matter how stagnant it becomes, it possess the possibility of opening up humanities advancement to the very stars themselves, and Chaos, while it has its merits, will only advance our extinction. That is where I stand on the matter, I wonder if any of you will ever consider who you side with, and whether you hold ambitions that could change the world.
Ryemin Liddle
H.O.P.E.S Academy
Surfing vs. Bodyboarding:
ReplyDeleteThe average person may consider surfing to be riding anything on a wave. However, those familiar with the ocean know there is a monstrous difference between the two most popular types of wave riding, surfing and bodyboarding. In fact, the two differ in almost everything beside the location their sport takes place.
The major difference between these two sports lies in the board ridden. The board is what defines whether you are surfing or bodyboarding. Surfers ride boards between five and twelve feet long. The boards are most often foam on the inside with a fiberglass coating, they include a set of fins located on the bottom near the tail. Bodyboarders, also know as "spongers", ride totally different equipment. Bodyboards are a more rectangular shape made solely out of foam. They have a plastic bottom and lack a set of mounted fins.
The next contradiction comes in the way they ride waves. Beside the obviously visible difference in stance of the two riders, they contrast immensely in the tricks they perform and wave lines they choose. First of all, surfers ride their boards on their feet, only holding the board with their hands for greater stability in the barrel. They focus mostly on setting up for snaps and carves near the lip of the wave, and try to keep their ride as smooth as possible. Spongers, on the other hand, ride the wave on their stomach and use their hands to hold on to the rails and turn. They seek to get as much speed as possible so they can hit the lip of the wave and fly spinning into the air. If ever possible they try to dodge the barrel to set up for one of these airs, and rarely combine more than two or three moves on one wave.
Both of these sports are among the most stimulating and appreciable in the world and while they share a home in the ocean, differ drastically to those who are familiar with them. So next time you use the word ‘surfer’ to generalize the two, think about just who you’re talking about.
Colby Sargent
Ideas
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteDear Colby,
DeleteGreat example of the two types of wave riding. Your use of strong vocabulary really brought the essay to life. Nice job
Respectfully,
Marina
Dogs Vs. Cats
ReplyDeleteSneaky, strange finicky. Playful, loyal affectionate. The first three words probably remind you of a cat. The second set of three words most likely made you think of a dog. Both are considered family pets and both have drastic differences.
Most dogs are generally affectionate, kind, playful alert, tolerant and sociable while cats tend to be graceful, independent, aloof, mysterious and subtle. When a dog hears the voice of their master, they respond right away as where cats barely move at all. Dogs can sense danger and fear. The only thing cats can sense is when their food is ready. Dogs will interrupt their ownerʻs activities if they feel lonely or want to play. Cats, on the other hand, are often invisible during the day, seeming only to appear in the evening, especially if that is when they are fed. Cats will occasionally engage in social activities or play with people, but their interest is limited. Usually, after only a few minutes, cats will abandon the game and wander away. Dogs on the other hand, will often engage in play, like fetching a thrown ball, for hours at a time, and it is usually the human that quits the game first.
When dogs are left alone, say in the backyard or tied up, they are always moving, looking for something to chew on or bury. Cats do not need a chain to be tied up because they generally stay in the same area all day just lounging around. Cats are also extremely agile, being able to dodge almost anything. Dogs are not so reflexive in some cases can even be a little floppy and clumsy. However, dogs are vigorous and can hold their ground. As for being social, dogs are open to meeting new people and getting attention from everyone. Cats are more introversive and intermittently seek affection from unknown people.
Overall, both cats and dogs have their massive differences but if there is one trait they share it is this; if you give them your heart, they will give you theirs.
Marina Mireles
Hopes
Dear Marina,
DeleteYou describe the two animals with such detail and accuracy that I can't help visualizing them in my mind. The vocabulary you used in some parts was also rather proficient. It makes you sound like you know what you are talking about, a good example of using ethos.
Sincerely,
Ruby
ReplyDeleteDisney channel then Vs. now
I remember coming home after an ordinary day at elementary school, finishing my homework, then turning on the TV to catch an episode of Lizzie McGuire or That's So Raven. Now days I don't even dare to turn on Disney channel because all the shows are full of nonsense.
Disney Channel back in the day produced so many entertaining shows. As I was explaining this to my sister over the summer she responded with, “ wouldn't you think that those shows were stupid like the ones on Disney channel today because you're older?”. So, me being the way I am tested her theory. I searched for an episode of That's So Raven on you tube, watched it, and still loved it. Proving that they still hold there entertaining value. Can you guys remember Phil of the future? For the girls, remember that childhood crush you had on Phil? OK, now what about Even Stevens? Seriously, that was such a hilarious show. But even the movies were better back then. I Know 99% of you guys remember the movie Holes, I would watch that right now if I could.
Now jumping to Disney channel in the present day. I don't have cable anymore so I'm going off of the Disney shows that my sisters kids watched when I was there. Has anyone ever heard of Dog with a blog, Ant farm, Jessie, or even Austin and Ally? These are the present shows that play on Disney Channel. First of all these shows don't have a flowing humor. You can tell how hard these shows try to be funny, but they just aren't. Second, no one is cute in them like good ole Phil. And lastly, to me they don't even have good story lines that TV shows should have to drag you in. Now onto the present original Disney movies. Flashback to July 19th this summer, my sisters kids were waiting so long for this new Disney movie to come out called “Teen Beach Movie”. So the night it came on I sat down to watch it with them, that was a bad decision. Literally the worst movie I have ever seen, I cant even describe how pointless it was. It almost annoys me thinking about it right now.
Disney channel back in the day had so many more original, classic shows. Shows and movies that caught your attention no matter how old you were. TV shows on Disney channel these days just don't spark my interest. I believe they are more immature, and full of nonsense. But hey, these are only my opinions. What do you think, was the old Disney channel better? Or are the shows that play today more entertaining ?
Haylei Sheldon
IDEAS
Old Disney channel was way better! I don't have a TV, but i know that if rerun Disney shows come on they are actually funny and interesting, especially the movies they mad in the early 2000's. Now it all sucks. Why did things change? That's what I want to know. Even Nick has some pretty ridiculously dumb shows now, but it hasn't had such a drastic change as Disney channel. Hahahaha i can't believe there's a show called "A Dog with a Blog" hahaha. I haven't heard of it but that sounds ridiculous! Nice essay Haylei!
DeleteLove, Zuri
Haylei,
DeleteI agree with you 100%. DIsney channel back then made a lot more sense. I dont know if it is because we have grown up and now look upon things differently or because shows back then had a moral and taught you life lessons other that just whats cool to wear or playing just completely shallow episodes with no meaning or value.
Love,
Kai
Doing things yourself vs. Having someone do them for you;
ReplyDeleteToday, there are so many tasks done for us we take for granted. Two hundred years ago, most people had to wash their clothes by hand, make their own soap, sow their own clothes, and grow much of their own food. Jam didn't come from the store, you worked for those preserves! The cow had to be milked, eggs collected, and land tilled. You likely broke the horse that you rode, and crafted the candle that lit your room at night. Things are different now. When it comes to money, food, home work, or transportation, many of us have the option to decide to do it ourselves, or have someone pick up our slack. Many factors come into play, and which path is the most beneficial to our development can vary.
When you make your own money, a strong sense of independence and pride may result. You can buy things your parents might not have provided you otherwise, and possibly gain many more freedoms. When it comes to eating, cooking for yourself can save you money, help you develop an important lifelong skill of being able to feed yourself, and save your parents from the irritation of being nagged to make you a meal when they are busy with other things. Having someone else do your homework will not help you learn the material, and may leave you with a nausea of guilt when your teacher comments on how much she liked your work. If the guilt doesn't get you, questions like "what inspired you?" or "why did you include that sentence?" or "I need to see your rough draft" might. When it comes to transportation, most of us can easily catch the public bus instead of begging someone with a car to chauffeur us.
On the other hand, sometimes getting a job could interfere with our school work, which should be our top priority as students. In this case perhaps it is not a bad idea to ask your family for a couple bucks. Maybe it thrills your mom to cook you a meal. Maybe your homework was a random cross word puzzle or something equally as ridiculous that deserves to be copied so you can study something more crucial, or help out at home with chores. Maybe your parents don't mind giving you a ride in the least.
There is a fine line between what will help us grow as individuals and what will not. Since we are transitioning into adulthood, it is crucial that we take some action towards becoming self-reliant. However, don't avoid asking for help if you really need it. The main goal is to achieve our goals and live a balanced life.
Zuri Shanklin
IDEAS
Okay topic for compare and contrast essay is… being in a relationship and being single. Now why I chose this is simple I am literally writing this at 2:26 in the morning and I am running out of ideas. So I am doing a topic all us teens are doing today but if I were to choose I’d pick the being single probably because I am and I’m just waiting for the right guy.
ReplyDeleteBeing single is where you are just being yourself and hanging out with friends waiting for your “meant to be” (Teen Beach Movie from disney..nothing interesting was on yet). But sometimes being single is the best thing that happens to you. It helps you discover yourself and whatever mushy stuff people say nowadays. Plus you have a lot of time for dating we are only in high school you know we have colleges and careers where you can find that other half. There’s also the basic moving on from a breakup where you flaunt to your ex about how you don’t need them to make you happy. Also there is no distraction from your education now, no late night talks, no dates, have time to study, and no last minute copying because you were too busy thinking about your special someone.
Being in a relationship is where you find a person of interest and you ask them out. You and that boy/girl start to connect with each like you have been best friends for like ever. People sometimes are in a relationship because they need that person to lean on when times are rough. It’s where you know you have a future with that person you treat the other with respect. Being in a relationship you need trust and communication or something can and will go wrong. It also takes commitment to which most of us aren’t ready for because we are too young right now to understand. You must also love each other like you would take a bullet for that person.
So I stand by what I said earlier if I were to choose between being single and being in a relationship I’d choose being single. Also with this essay I am glad to stand by my choice.
Kassandra Iloreta I.D.E.A.S Academy
Foodland or Safeway?
ReplyDeleteMany people in Kapaa town have at one time or another had to choose whether to shop at Foodland or Safeway. Most people have a strong preference and rarely shop at one of these stores. Safeway caters to tourists and a select few locals while Floodland is more or the locals chose supermarket.
Floodland is a good grocery store with a wide variety of foods. I is somewhat smaller in size than Safeway. Some of it’s main features include, a bakery, a deli, local fish and fresh meat. Foodland also has a bunch of local foods. They have huli huli chicken, musubis, kim chi, and other more ethnic foods. Floodland also has a bank inside of it, making it the ideal place to cash a check and grab some groceries. It also seems that Foodland is much better at handling their checkout because there isn’t usually huge lines in Foodland.
Safeway is a big company from the mainland. Safeway’s can be found all over the country. As a result they are expected to have many of the same things no matter where they are. This means that they have to ship many of their products from the mainland. They also have a bakery, and deli, fresh meat, and fish. As a result they have alienated some locals. Tourist and new resident prefer Safeway because it is familiar to them and has a large amount of the same foods they would enjoy back home. The prices are a little more expensive at Safeway, and the checkout lines seems to be permanently packed. Their self-checkout lines don’t always function correctly and often frustrate people.
Both Foodland and Safeway have their own merits. Whether you choose to shop and one and not the other is up to you. They are both good depending on what you want. If you are looking for local foods or ingredients, you might want to go to Foodland as it has a wider selection of those types of food. While it you are looking for more mainland type foods you would want to go to Safeway.
Victor Sanchez
IDEAS
Parenting Style
ReplyDeleteParents. You’re born into their lives without a choice. They are a major part in your youth and their actions can shape you into a person. A person’s mother and father can have two completely different parenting styles. A child will normally favor the fun parent over the serious parent, for obvious reasons, but I realized later that both are necessary to raise a good person.
To raise a child successfully they need discipline, to prepare them for the real world and to teach them that good things don’t come easy. That’s where my mother comes in, she was always the serious one. She wanted me and my sister to get straight A’s, be in sports and clubs, get into decent colleges and that sort of thing. She was the rule setter, the punisher. To this day I still see her as the one you don’t wanna piss off, you have to be careful when dealing with this type of parent.
My father, however I have always seen as the fun one. He took us kayaking and hiking, he was silly and weird and he built us cool things (he’s a woodworker). He was only around for a little while, before he became a grumpy old man, so I remember him fondly as the fun parent. The fun parent takes the stress away from constantly being nagged by the serious parent. Children, I think, often feel closer to the parent who relieves them from facing reality.
As different as they sound, and seem, the two parents have a few main things in common. The role they play in your life will affect you in both positive and negative ways. All work and no play makes you a dull child, all play and no work makes you a lazy child. Your parents both have to deal with all the crazy stuff you go through, whether they like it or not. Last but not least, they love you. A parent will always have a soft spot in their heart for their offspring. Even if they have an emotionless face and seem to not care, they do.
Ruby Hawthorne
Ideas Academy
Childhood vs. Now
ReplyDeleteWhen we were younger we were so excited to grow up. But did it turn out to be what you really thought it would? With barely any responsibilities put on my shoulders, my childhood was pretty great. Now we are expected to know who we are, and know what we want to do. Every day teens are pressured by society to be a certain way. Page by page, chapter by chapter, my story is continually evolving and maturing.
My childhood is still very vivid to me. I remember my elementary school days clearly. How my friends and I would play on the monkey bars, and chase each other around. We were so careless and happy. No responsibilities just fun. What happened to those days? As a child, family time was very important, we did basically everything together. Right after school there was always some sort of sport practice or activity. When my dad got home from work we had a family dinner. Everything was just perfect and fell into place.
Now that I am in high school, everything is so different, The harsh reality that some of our friends aren't even "real" friends. And recesses are just our rest or cramming time until our next class. We now need to worry about our future, what college we want to go to, and what we want to be. Now on top of all my school work I am expected to do sports, chores, and get a job all at the same time excel in school. Now my brother is in college and my dad works late, to pay for his expenses. Independence is both exciting and frightening at the same time. My parents don't tell me what to do anymore. They help guide the way. I am responsible for my own future.
At times I wish I could go back to being so carefree. The truth of the matter is that we all grow up, it is just a part of life. Although growing up may be very scary, I am still excited to see what the future holds for me. And maybe in 10 years i'll be writing how carefree and perfect my high school years were.
Aaryn Gray
IDEAS
Growing up as a toddler and growing up as a teen seem like two totally different life experience. The way I see it is even though the experiences are different, the purpose is the same. In each situation you are learning and growing as a person.
ReplyDeleteWhen you’re little, things are much easier. You get to eat whatever you want, sleep whenever you want, and have absolutely no one to empress. I mean it is definitely a challenge to learn the basic skills a person needs; like walking, talking, and using the potty on your own. But most challenges little ones face have positive outcomes, like the victory of taking first steps.
Then there are the teenage years which are seriously some of the hardest years of life, granted they do give you the best experiences and memories. But I’m not lying when I say things are difficult. I wish I could go back to learning how to walk and talk sometimes. Not only do teens have to deal with the hardships of having too much algebra homework, and the frustration it brings knowing we’ll never use it again. It is truly the hormonal and social problems that truly make the life of a teenager tough. We worry about everything; our physical appearance, what we eat, who we associate with, what we do, and it’s all to be “socially accepted”. Even though life as a teen can be a struggle, I believe it’s when we discover who we are. I mean sure it takes a lot to learn how to use big girl diapers, but it takes even more to make it through high school
HOPES
Mo'orea Rohlfs
Texting Vs. Calling
ReplyDeleteThe ways of communication have changed massively throughout the years. From writing letters, to talking through cans and a piece of string, to huge, block cell phones. But, cell phones have gotten more and more high-tech ever since they were first invented. We now don’t need even need to dial a number and talk to people verbally. It’s amazing how we can have a conversation with a friend throughout the whole day, starting with a simple text message. Although texting and calling someone is similar, they’re both different.
Text messaging has gotten so popular that it’s become many people’s main mode of communication. A conversation through text is different than the conversation of a phone call. For instance, you can stick to one subject with a friend for hours and hours, when you’re texting. There’s no time limit to the conversation because you can take as long as you want to reply to the message. Heck, you don’t even have to reply at all. What you can’t do during a phone call that you can in text is think about what you say and how you’re going to say it. You get to reread, and erase as much as you want. Texting is also a way of saving messages. With calling, you’d have to ask them to repeat themselves for any information that you missed.
As for a phone call, you get to listen to the person speaking. Direct communication can decrease the chances of someone misunderstanding because you can feel the person’s emotions in their voice. There are no emotions in a text message that the other person can see, unless you use emojies. However, phone calls can be very pricey. Unlike texts, you can’t really keep the conversation going for hours because it costs a lot. A phone call also needs to maintain well reception. Within a call, you’re also more afraid to say what you feel. You definitely have more confidence texting something blunt, than you do saying it to the person where they can reply with just anything right away.
Even though phone calls and texting are two different ways of communication, they do share similarities. They’re both a way of communicating with someone from a distance. They’re also ways that you can communicate in just about anywhere….as long as you have service.
Texting and calling are two ways of communication that share similarities and differences. I think that most people choose which way of talking to someone depending on the situation. Either way, whatever you have to say is going to be said.
Sincerely,
Hazel Jarquio
HOPES
Video Games or TV?
ReplyDeleteThe biggest question in some peoples’ lives is what to do in their free time. For most, it’s to go hang out with friends and surf or whatever popular children do. However, for me, with limited friends who are always busy, my question is simple: Netflix or Play Station? Yes, some may disagree with my Play Station reference, saying the X-Box is a much better gaming system. Let’s just not go into it, for my point relies on other topics.
For some background knowledge, Cable was invented in the 1950s for the direct purpose of relaying information and providing entertainment to the American public all the while viewing moving images on a screen. This was now a new daily activity for citizens in their homes. Whole families would gather around the living room television set and watch their favorite show every night. Over the ages, television changed into what we have today. There was no such thing as a flat screen back then, that’s for sure. Cable TV comes through the wires and we watch our favorite shows anywhere or anytime we want. Netflix rocks the world of television hands down. Netflix is a program that contains a good number of shows which are usually pretty amazing.
Moving on to video games, which I personally much rather prefer. In a video game, you can nearly do whatever you want. In a television show, on the other hand, things happen without your control. You’re just along for the ride, so however the set director planned it is how it’s going to happen. You can’t help it if your favorite character dies. In most video games, you can be your favorite character and make them live forever. Video games also teach strategy, cunning, social skills, etc. Oh, and one of the nest things about gaming online with other players? The other players make the game fantastic. You can make countless friends online based on social output. The best part of it is that you never need to see their face. They have a cool accent? Picture them as if they were really cool.
Video games and television aren’t much different regarding the technology behind the screen. However, video games are much better.
John Quinlan IDEAS
California vs Kauai
ReplyDeleteBeing that my dad’s side of the family lives here in the islands and that my mom’s side of the family lives in California, I have been fortunate enough to travel back and forth quite a bit. When I was younger, I just thought of it as “yay a vacation.” But now that I am older I am able to see the differences between the two places. And they are quite drastic.
The first difference is all of the sports opportunities in school. Here on Kauai, there is a heaping total of four high schools that are your rivals during sports season. So you end up playing the same teams over and over again. Also, not many scouts for college happen to come about Kauai, so the chance of getting a really good athletic scholarship is decreased quite a bit. In California, it is the exact opposite. There are countless schools so every time you go to a game it is a new challenge. A new strategy. Also, there are lots of club sports and scouts tend to look at club teams more than they look at school teams. Depending on what sport you play, there are not many club sports teams at all on Kauai. So if you live in California, you have a much greater chance to be recognized for a sports scholarship.
Another thing that California has more of is things to do in general. Pretty much everything we do and more is able to be done in California. We can surf here and there we can skydive here and there, we can hike here and there. But we can’t snowboard or go go-cart racing or play in beach volleyball tournaments for kids. There is lots to do here and it is all really fun, but California just has a few more things to do.
One thing that Hawaii has that California can’t quite match is the beauty. I've seen some really nice places in California but nothing that can compete with Kauai. The nicest view I have ever seen was when I was surfing Hanalei Bay and I looked to my left and I saw the mountains of Hanalei. I was the coolest thing too because there were two on the side and one giant one in the back facing strait towards you and they created sort of a bowl I still to this day, I have never seen anything like it in California.
Kai Harrison
IDEAS
Dear Kai,
DeleteHey great essay! I am impressed with the use of your examples to relay the differences between Kauai and California. Your writing style is very similar to mine, which is pretty cool.
-John
Dear kai,
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your essay! I liked how you put in specific and personal examples of Kauai and California. Your writing was very good and understandable.
Sincerely,
Aaryn Gray
IDEAS
Face-to-face interaction vs. electronic interaction
ReplyDeleteI've always felt a connection talking face to face with people I don't have when talking in IM's or video chats. So i could never understand how such methods of conversation were becoming more and more popular.
When having a conversation people will often influence what the say to tailor to what the other person is doing. Signs such as crossing your arms and them doing the same show that they interested in what you saying. This helps to know that you connecting and that you should continue what you are saying. This is not possible in instant messaging or video chats as little to no part of either person is shown.
What instant messages offer that talking in real life does not is that you can pick and choose what you want to say. If you make a mistake while typing in a message you can just erase it allowing you to choose the type of person you want to be. In real life there are no redos so if you mess up you just look stupid.
Another thing that face to face talking offers is the chance to mess up. This happening may cause the person talking to you to correct you or jump in and help you. Heck they might even think it's cute or quirky.
When people talk face to face they have a chance to connect on a deeper personal level than when talking on the phone. Hearing that dissacosiated voice coming out of someone that is more or less you makes you want to respond. When chaatting on phones all you hear is a voice like a prerecorded message that you can respond to.
Although these offer different ways to connect they still let us connect. No matter how far they are from you with these two styles of communication you can easily to friends and loved ones or find reports on things happening around you.
So which is better? face to face interactions or online ones. They both have their pros and cons and offer different ways to get in touch with people. I don't know which is better so why don't you decide?
Mikel Keeler-Howarth
IDEAS academy
Hawaii vs. The Mainland
ReplyDeleteThe amount of people that haven’t left the Hawaiian islands is astounding. There are tons of people who have never even left Kauai. These people probably have no idea what it’s like to be in the city. I actually went to New York for the first time this summer, and it was incredible. I’ve been to Chicago and L.A, but New York is a whole new animal. You haven’t really been in the city until you walk Times Square. It’s so different from the rural beauty of Kauai. There are also different regions of the Mainland, all with uniques characteristics. Hawaii is drastically different from the Mainland.
However let’s start with the similarities. Both are part of the United States of America. Both use the same currency, US Dollars ($) and cents. Each state also has similar state properties (State bird, state flag, capital city). The standard television stations are the same. Each state has equal representation in the Senate. The schooling system is also the same (Elementary K-5, Middle School 6-8, High School 9-12). Most basic laws are universal through the entire U.S.
While a lot of things make it seem Hawaii is exactly the same, there are a ton of differences. For starters, the way people speak. In Hawai’i we talk pidgin, or “Hawaiian Creole”. This is in stark contrast to most of the mainland, who try to sound smart by properly enunciating every single word. Our eating habits also greatly vary. We tend to eat rice with nearly every meal, and enjoy raw fish. Most people not from Hawai’i think of raw fish as disgusting. It’s alright, more for me. The cost of living in Hawaii is ridiculous compared to the cheap prices the Mainland gets to enjoy. We also have zero professional sports teams, which extremely saddens me. We don’t have many big cities with huge skyscrapers. In Hawai’i everyone is also generally more personable to other people. In the Mainland, people never talk to strangers.We are the only state with an indigenous race with their own language. People from Hawai’i also have an unfair stereotype that we are dumb and live in grass huts (I blame Lilo and Stitch).
When you really look at it, there are an enormous amount of both similarities and differences between Hawai’i and the Mainland. While we are a state, we are probably the most unique state (It’s between us and Alaska). All this in mind, we are still a vital part of the United States, and we will continue to be.
Paul Oyama
HOPES Academy
High School Mathematics v.s Elementary Mathematics
ReplyDeleteThe struggle is real when it comes to high school math, whether it be geometry, algebra, algebra 2, trigonometry, calculus ect... For me, it all went down hill when letters became involved in our day to day math lessons. What ever happened to those to those simple one digit addition problems? The glory days before we learned placement value and our answers could be counted plainly on our fingers.
What’s the deal with high school math now-a-days, all this homework, memorizing lengthy formulas and staying up in to the late hours of the night trying to finish up those last few math problems. Of course all of this hard work is worth it to better prepare me for those long awaited college days, but come on teachers, whats up with those fifty-four problem “review” work sheets! Do we really need to know the ins and outs of the “unit circle”, is it really that important to know that the radius is always one, ya’ know except for when its not. When am I ever going to use the knowledge of being able to switch 330° efficiently in to radian form, definitely not while performing common everyday tasks.
Contrary to high school mathematics, elementary mathematics are used on a daily basis, like to find out how much money I will need to buy a pint of Häagen-Dazs coconut macaroon ice cream and a drink to go with it. I will use these skills through out life no matter what career I choose, ranging from a stay at home mom to a rocket scientist. In both “careers” you must have proper addition skills, you do not want to underestimate how many diapers you will be needing for the weekend away, like wise one simple addition mistake could mean a missed target and a complete catastrophe. Over all, elementary math is a much more practical, widely used type of mathematics, without it even the hardest of math problems could not be completed.
In conclusion, both levels of mathematics are very valuable and are needed to accomplish virtually anything in life. However, I believe elementary school mathematics is not only easier, but a better choice to study and improve on than high school mathematics. Without the elementary level high level of math would never be able to be completed because the elementary math is the basis of all mathematics. No matter your job, your career, or your life situation basic mathematic knowledge is necessary and a key ingredient in life.
Sincerely,
Kai Chase
IDEAS
High School Mathematics v.s Elementary Mathematics
ReplyDeleteThe struggle is real when it comes to high school math, whether it be geometry, algebra, algebra 2, trigonometry, calculus ect... For me, it all went down hill when letters became involved in our day to day math lessons. What ever happened to those to those simple one digit addition problems? The glory days before we learned placement value and our answers could be counted plainly on our fingers.
What’s the deal with high school math now-a-days, all this homework, memorizing lengthy formulas and staying up in to the late hours of the night trying to finish up those last few math problems. Of course all of this hard work is worth it to better prepare me for those long awaited college days, but come on teachers, whats up with those fifty-four problem “review” work sheets! Do we really need to know the ins and outs of the “unit circle”, is it really that important to know that the radius is always one, ya’ know except for when its not. When am I ever going to use the knowledge of being able to switch 330° efficiently in to radian form, definitely not while performing common everyday tasks.
Contrary to high school mathematics, elementary mathematics are used on a daily basis, like to find out how much money I will need to buy a pint of Häagen-Dazs coconut macaroon ice cream and a drink to go with it. I will use these skills through out life no matter what career I choose, ranging from a stay at home mom to a rocket scientist. In both “careers” you must have proper addition skills, you do not want to underestimate how many diapers you will be needing for the weekend away, like wise one simple addition mistake could mean a missed target and a complete catastrophe. Over all, elementary math is a much more practical, widely used type of mathematics, without it even the hardest of math problems could not be completed.
In conclusion, both levels of mathematics are very valuable and are needed to accomplish virtually anything in life. However, I believe elementary school mathematics is not only easier, but a better choice to study and improve on than high school mathematics. Without the elementary level high level of math would never be able to be completed because the elementary math is the basis of all mathematics. No matter your job, your career, or your life situation basic mathematic knowledge is necessary and a key ingredient in life.
Sincerely,
Kai Chase
IDEAS
City vs. Small town
ReplyDeleteIf you are lucky enough to travel, you know that the earth is full of many different countries, cultures, people, and climates. The difference can be quite drastic, or particularly mild, but all the while being different. Such as New York City and Lake Champlain, Vermont. They’re in the same country so they shouldn’t be very different, right? Wrong.
New York City. It is almost guaranteed that anyone you talk to will know where you’re speaking of. It is home of one of the tallest buildings in the world, a gift in the form of a giant green lady from France, and millions of shops, homes, cars, and people. It snows in the winter and gets up to 90 degrees in the summer with no wind. New York City has different names too like the big apple, and Manhattan. In the winter New Yorkers take the term “deck the halls” literally by decorating the entire city with lights, and giant snowflakes, skating rinks, and of course, the biggest Christmas tree you’ve ever seen. You rarely run into someone you know, because in New York City, there is no such thing as a “small world”. With horns blaring, and the hustle and bustle of people, NYC is the definition of city living, and the fast paced life that comes with it.
Meanwhile, a little farther north is Lake Champlain, Vermont. A green countryside that overlooks, well, a lake. There are no big super-marts or department stores, just wide-open land and a pharmacy. Its climate consists of cold winters with almost a guaranteed snowfall, and chilly summers with lots of wind. No fancy decorations, no giant Christmas trees, just farmlands and lake cabins. Lake Champlain is rarely spoken of, or known about, just a rural farm town close to Canada. Everyone you pass by or run into at the store is a neighbor, family member, or friend. Everyone knows everybody by being such a close nit community. Lake Champlain, Vermont is the definition of secluded, quiet life and the farming that comes with it.
Although these two places are in the same country, they differ in quite some ways. Whether it’s the climate difference during the summer, the amount of people living there and the type of communities, or the amount of visitor attractions, it is safe to say that New York City and Lake Champlain are not very similar. However, there are some similarities, such as them both being on the eastern side of the United States. As well as, they’re winters being similar by both being cold and often times snowing. Differences aside, they are both magnificent places boasting beautiful views and fabulous lifestyles, it all just depends on what you love!
Malia Hickey
IDEAS
Dear Malia,
DeleteGreat essay! I really enjoyed reading about the differences between a city vs. a small town. Your comparison between New York City and Vermont are the perfect examples. Good job!
Sincerely,
Aaryn Gray
IDEAS
Call of Duty Vs. Battlefield
ReplyDeleteCall of duty and battlefield, two of the worlds biggest first person shooters, are the biggest controversial games out there. Even though they are the same type of game, the in game capabilities are very different with each other. You have the realistic interface, the graphics layout, and player objectives.
The realistic style of Call of duty and Battlefield differ on a very big scale. Call of Duty, now, still shows glitched out graphics, whether in story mode or multiplayer. The characters people use in multiplayer gaming of Call of Duty don’t really have much realism to them. All they do is stare with a blank face when running or getting shot at. Also Call of Duty gives you perks to help you in your fight, like letting you hide in plain sight, aim down your sights faster or even reloading faster.To me, not very realistic. In battlefield, realism is taken to a whole new level. The realism of battlefield is astounding. The characters in story and multiplayer modes look as if they were right in front of you. When using a gun, you have no perks to help you along in the fight. Which means you will be using the weapon as intended to be used, meaning reloading and aiming down your sights at as a normal person.
The biggest thing with graphics in these two games, Call of duty and battlefield, is the building structures. In Call of duty, buildings don’t look very real. They look like very crappy renderings of buildings. Even to add on to that, if you were to level a building in CoD with a stealth bomber( A jet that drops the loads bombs on an area ) the building will still be there. As if it were never touched at all. In battlefield, if you level a building, that building is not there. You can tear down an entire wall or room just to get to your enemy.
The player objectives of these two games do differ questionably. Call of Duty players usually tend to not care about their teammates and go rogue. They enter game types like search and destroy or even team deathmatch which are team oriented game types that require you to work as a team to achieve the goal of that game type. That’s mainly all you will see in CoD multiplayer. In Battlefield, players seem to always try and work together in their game types. For what reason I do not know they just work as a team.
Other people may have more opinions about these games but the topics above are the biggest controversial topics about these games as of now. Maybe new topics will arise, but its all up to the player and how they feel about these games when they play it.
Sincerely,
Shizuo Santos
HOPES
Teenager V.S Toddler
ReplyDeleteYou love having the freedom of being a teenager, but you also miss the simplicity of being a toddler. Being a teenager basically spells freedom, yet on the other hand things seem to get more and more complicated. Yet being a toddler is easy, you can get what you want when you want, and you seem to have endless energy. Both of these still have the advantage of not having to be an adult. So why not make the most of it?
Teengage years seem to emply driving, having a cell phone, sleeping in, hanging out with your friends on the weekends till the late hours of the night. Then being a toddler mean everyone is wrapped around your finger, everything is an adventure,you’re mommy or daddys partner in crime, and you can make best-friends easier than snapping your fingers.
Then there is the bad things about both of them. Being a teenager is hard. All the sudden it creeps up on you that you’re closer to being an adult than every before. Suddenly your paying for gas, getting a job, going to high school, looking at colleges, and the inevetable drama that comes with it all. For being a toddler possibly one of the hardest things is to get heard, it seems as if everyone speaks over you, also you aren’t “tall enough”, or “strong enough”, everytime time you wonder off on your own everyone freaks out, and your parents always have to have your hand on you, even when you don’t want them too.
If you really think about it, there are a lot of things that are alike in these two age groups. For example, people don’t seem to take you seriouly in both groups, parents want a tab on you all the time, alone time seems impossible, you’re still considered “a kid”, even when you don’t want to eat your vegtables you still have too. But most of all we both have a voice in things, no matter how small or big.
Sincerly,
Myah Post
H.O.P.E.S Academy
Cell phones before vs. cell phones now
ReplyDeleteEverywhere we go we see people with cell phone. Cell phones have become a crucial part of our daily life nowadays. Within the last decades cell phones had evolved from simple communication to personal assistant to our everyday life. Today, we can’t imagine our world without a cell phone. But the cell phones we see now don’t look like the first cell phone invented.
When the first cell phone was invented it was the size of a brick and this phone was known as the brick. Guessing from the name of the cell phone “the brick” weight heavily. Something, no one wants to carry around. The first generation of cell phones had long antenna and it was only designed to make a phone call. No text, no games, no pictures and no music. As the years pass cell phones evolved, the cell phones got smaller and no more antennas.
I remember when everyone though the flip and slide phones were cool. In this generation cell phones is becoming more technical. Cell phones today are like a portable laptop that fits in our pocket. Today cell phones have a built in mp3 player, internet, video chat and all kinds of apps. And recently they just released the new iphone that can take your finger print to unlock your phones.
Texting is a big part of our lives and before all we could do is call. Before we had to call someone to get to a destination but today we use GPS on our phones to track a friend or your destination. Today, people can work out of their office; with their smart phone they can work not only their home but also in cars, trains and public places. . We can also take notes instead of having a stack of paper. But cellphones day and before are similar in few ways they are similar because they both can callToday cellphones have evolved making out lives easier.
Sincerely,
Zhaira Agrade
Hopes
Why summer is better than winter
ReplyDeleteAs the concept of summer arises, people instantly light up with joy. We can’t help but smile from ear to ear, to think of the sun radiating majestically in the sky, while the salty beach air soothes the air that we breath. Normally, people are so easy going this time of year. As I picture summer, I see children sprinting on mellow sands, students trading in their books for a quick dip in the pool, water splashing as each waves crashes to the shore, surfers holding their breath as they get sucked into the whirlpool of waves collapsing down on them. summer is when people can relax and enjoy themselves and to truly explore the vast opportunities that the world has to offer.
On the other hand, when the topic of winter arises the same concept arises. People light up with joy and also smile from ear to ear. The cool breeze caresses the face, leaving a wondrous chill that suggest christmas is right around the corner. Winter summons down snow , and celebrates the start of a new year. Fire works dance upon the glistening stars indicating the world is at peace and peace is set upon our soul. Life is of true wonder during this season.
However, one might suggest that summer is better than winter or vice versa. Well lets dissect both party and come up with a conclusion to end this dilemma. First of all, summer break is very long, approximately 3 months while Winter is only 2 weeks.With more time means more things to accomplish and vacation isn’t cut short. However, Winter has two major holidays that everyone enjoys. Not to mention presents. Nevertheless, during the summertime, you can practically wear anything you want and enjoy all the things that life adventure has to offer. In some parts of the world even summer has snow. With winter comes rain, snow, hail, and generally bad weather so that means staying at home is inevitable. If you are a movie fanatic then I guess this wouldn’t be as miserable but to the rest of the world that enjoys the warm sun, winter weathers, infact suck. So in conclusion, I think that more would agree that summer is definitely way better than winter.
Sincerely,
John Ortega
HOPES
~ Male ~ ~ Female ~
ReplyDeleteAs you develop friendships, you begin to understand what it is that your companion can do for you. As a girl, I tend to have more “girlfriends” than I do “boyfriends”, well I mean obviously, right? But to some that’s not the case. To some girls, boys are better friends then other girls, or the opposite. But which one is truly better?
~Female~
As girls, we love to spoil ourselves. We are all about the “girl time.” We just enjoy doing things that make us happy, and why not do that with someone who shares the same interests! When the estrogen-gang get together they are free to talk about any type of female problems or interests that we want to, we also get to talk about boys, without having to deal with having boys there. It’s the best! And because our womanly lives are so filled with things we do on a daily basis, drama is often a part of the agenda. We tend to have drama with our parents, our friends and other girls. When you have girl friends they provide some one to talk about our problems with, but truth be told, sometimes they are the drama. Girlfriends are great listeners. They love to be able to sit down with you and be told all your problems and give advice. These are the things that being friends with girls has to offer.
~Male~
Guys like to travel in packs, but they also enjoy having time for themselves. So if you have more guy friends than girlfriends then you can expect to be able to have all the free time that you like. And unless you like guy activities like video games, or skate boarding then you might find even more “me time”!!.. yay... But when it comes to drama, guys generally don’t have that much. Sure they will have their occasional “beefs” with the guy next door but they enjoy staying away from problems. So all you drama free gals, go get a guy friend. Not to mention the part where they have no problem going to punch your drama in the face for you. That can definitely be a bonus. And when it comes to having someone to talk to. Well sometimes that depends what you guy friend is like. Generally, guys hate talking, about almost ANYthing. But sometimes guys can be some of the best advice givers you can find.
So I’m going to say that the best solution to this is….. have BOTH! It’s always good to get both perspectives and it will also give you a chance to get comfortable with talking to the opposite sex. They don’t bite usually. So stop reading this essay and go get some more friends.
Sincerely,
Lauren Benson
HOPES
Why do people use drugs?
ReplyDeleteDrugs use affects people all over the world. Whether or not you do the drugs yourself, chances are someone you’ve crossed path with has. Many people know the harmful effects of them are witty enough to stay away, but as some people know, common sense isn’t so common. So why do people use drugs? There are definitely a variety of reasons, but generally it’s because they would like to fit in, they’re chasing the high, or are trying to relieve pain or stress.
Some people who use drugs think that taking the drugs will help them fit in. If people are in a situation and feel pressured to take the drugs, they may feel their reputation is on the line, or if they don’t take them they won’t be part of the group. Many people also have the view that the “cool people” are doing drugs and getting high. This view makes people think that if they get high as well, they will be cool.
Drugs overload the pleasure sensors in your brain, which creates an extreme feeling of pleasure. This feeling is called the high. Many people who use drugs are hooked continually chasing this high feeling. The first time being high is usually the most extreme feeling, and cannot occur again. This first feeling is what has most people coming back for more. People feel low, so they take drugs and get high, enjoy the high, then feel low again, and the cycle repeats itself.
Many people who get hooked on drugs are those who wish to relieve pain or stress. Some drugs are viewed as a means of relaxation, to calm the sea of stress in their mind or help to forget the burden of ongoing struggles. Many drugs relieve physical pain as well, and that is why many people get addicted. If they have injuries, the drug takes away the feeling of pain and makes it feel as if it is temporarily better.
So there are many reasons people do drugs, some reasons are to help fit in, chase the high, and to relieve pain or stress. Drugs are bad don’t do them.
Noelani Cassidy
HOPES
The preference for summer over winter or vice versa is subjective and can vary from person to person.
ReplyDeletehttps://touvarism.com/why-is-summer-better-than-winter/