Sunday, May 31, 2009
recast reflection
The recast was challenging because it made me pull the information out of the original text totally out of context. I understand that was the point, but it is hard because you aren't provided with all the information that is necessarily required for the type of text you are creating. For example, a poem generally focusses on emotions and feelings, whereas a newspaper article concentrates on facts and concrete information. It isn't exactly a "walk in the park" trying to get the two to mesh.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
parody revision
Well That’s Nice
When my girlfriend says “Well that’s nice”, she could mean any of the following:
A) I genuinely think that’s nice
B) I am not actually listening, however I am providing some form of verbal acknowledgement so that you think I am listening.
C) I don’t care
D) If it makes you happy I’ll tag along and act happy for you
You can imagine the sheer frustration I feel when I share a piece of exciting news with my girlfriend and receive the usual response; “Well that’s nice”. I have heard that saying so many times that I have come to terms with the fact that when she recites that phrase, it is time for me to change the subject. “ I got the turbo charger on my motor last night!!” “Oh, well that’s nice.” And when the inquiries seize to halt, I have realized she could care less about my turbo charger, or flux capacitor, or turbine combustors. Etc, etc. And I realize that I should talk about things that she can feel enthusiastic about, but I feel the mere fact that I get excited about it should make her somewhat happy. At least she could act like it. Its not exactly like I could give two shits about the fabric store running out of the only “lavender” thread. However, knowing that it is something that she is passionate about, I will gladly talk to here about it with enthusiasm. Of course, the tone in which it is said, as well as her body language has everything to do with what in means in that context. I simply look deep, deep into her eyes and decipher the true message she is trying to communicate.
The original poem communicated that a particular phrase can mean a variety of things, depending on different variables. Yes does not always mean yes. I took that general idea and applied it to my life. “Well that’s nice” has taken on a new meaning for me. Instead of thinking that she believes what I told her is “nice”, I have learned that “Well that’s nice” means “cool, I don’t really care, but congratulations.” Both the original author and I provide a short list in the beginning showing what various possible meanings for the phrase at hand could mean. We then go into further detail about the phrase, and it’s misuse.
When my girlfriend says “Well that’s nice”, she could mean any of the following:
A) I genuinely think that’s nice
B) I am not actually listening, however I am providing some form of verbal acknowledgement so that you think I am listening.
C) I don’t care
D) If it makes you happy I’ll tag along and act happy for you
You can imagine the sheer frustration I feel when I share a piece of exciting news with my girlfriend and receive the usual response; “Well that’s nice”. I have heard that saying so many times that I have come to terms with the fact that when she recites that phrase, it is time for me to change the subject. “ I got the turbo charger on my motor last night!!” “Oh, well that’s nice.” And when the inquiries seize to halt, I have realized she could care less about my turbo charger, or flux capacitor, or turbine combustors. Etc, etc. And I realize that I should talk about things that she can feel enthusiastic about, but I feel the mere fact that I get excited about it should make her somewhat happy. At least she could act like it. Its not exactly like I could give two shits about the fabric store running out of the only “lavender” thread. However, knowing that it is something that she is passionate about, I will gladly talk to here about it with enthusiasm. Of course, the tone in which it is said, as well as her body language has everything to do with what in means in that context. I simply look deep, deep into her eyes and decipher the true message she is trying to communicate.
The original poem communicated that a particular phrase can mean a variety of things, depending on different variables. Yes does not always mean yes. I took that general idea and applied it to my life. “Well that’s nice” has taken on a new meaning for me. Instead of thinking that she believes what I told her is “nice”, I have learned that “Well that’s nice” means “cool, I don’t really care, but congratulations.” Both the original author and I provide a short list in the beginning showing what various possible meanings for the phrase at hand could mean. We then go into further detail about the phrase, and it’s misuse.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Annotated Bibiliograohy Reflection
Creating an annotated bibliography actually helped me more than I may have initially thought it would. I am going to use this technique to gather and organize information for all my future papers. Making an annotated bibliography is the perfect way of gathering and organizing information that is relevant to your topic. Additionally, it was kind of fun digging up archived papers and information related to bicycles.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Abstract for Bicycle paper
I would like to contribute to the conversation by discussing bicycles. More specifically, their contribution to the development of the United States city. The first bicycle boom allowed for the paved streets to be constructed, among other things. Bicycles paved the way for automobiles, which in turn shaped the modern American way of life. I will discuss their evolution as machines, as well as their evolution as modes of transportation and critical tools in the development of modern culture.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
How to Survive at UC
How-To Guide
How to survive at UC.
We all have struggled from time to time while enrolled at school. Three of the biggest problems we face are succeeding academically, making friends, and getting home sick. Well our group has presented the problems and described potential solutions. So if you find yourself facing tough times at school, read on and we will guide you toward success and happiness.
I am Jacob. I am the group’s primary instructor for the “Academic Success” field. Rereading the previous sentence makes me chuckle. I have never seen myself as a role model for “Academic Success”, and find it humorous I am responsible for showing others how to do what I have struggled with in the past. Personally, if you are looking for advice that holds any serious weight in regards to how to stay “on top” of your college academics, I suggest you take this section with a grain of salt. Regardless, I will do my best, because I know in theory anyone should be able to do this. Maybe this can suffice as a personal “self help” guide.
Habit is the single most important key to success. If throughout high school, you studied for all your exams and did your homework, you probably aren’t having as much trouble as me and a select few. If you learned to scrape through high school without ever doing much, you are the one who needs my help. You have to get into the habit of reading over class’s material for the day. You have to get into the habit of studying for the exam more than one day in advance for you exams. You need to get OUT of the habit of partying. That’s what high school was for. Now, it isn’t going to get you anything but a hangover. This is when you need to begin exploring yourself as an individual with personal wants and needs. In other words, college is a place for self-discovery. Kids will go into college thinking it is expected that they have already set a direction for which to travel. Nobody knows what they want to do when they are eighteen. NOBODY. (except those weird virtuoso kids who are playing concertos at the age of 5. Those guys don’t have much choice.) I am 20, and only now am I starting to map out the route I want to take to “success”.
All I can say is remember the kid you resented? The one who got straight A’s and sat in the front of the class, giving apples to the teacher? Well, now is the time to BE THAT KID!
The next common issue that we feel should be addressed is many students’ lack of a social life. Having a social life at a large University can be challenging, most college students have to work while going to school full time, which makes having a social life even more difficult. The University of Cincinnati has tried to ease the burden a little by introducing students to one another at orientation, and putting up different activities on the University web-site. Listed below are ways to make having a social life easier your first year at college.
From the internet you can find many different activities, and social clubs to join on or around campus.
· Go to the University web-site www.uc.edu
· click on current student
· On the right side of the page you will find Campus life and beyond
· In this area there are multiple links to click on which include
· Bearcast radio
· Campus Rec Center
· Ethnic programs
· Main street
· News radio
· Video
· Leadership development
· Student activities
· Student organizations
· Student government association
· Volunteering in the community
I feel that anyone can find at least one thing they are interested in under one of these links. If you are not computer friendly, or just do not have internet access, then here is a different list for you.
· Student orientation introduces you to other new students
· Student orientation gives you a short walk around campus to get a feel for where things are at
· Look at the signs in the hallways of the buildings, there are always postings for student activities, and other things to do such as parties
· Make friends by talking to the people sitting around you in class
· Join a fraternity
· Go to college sporting events
· If all else fails look for the parties and go there
Not everyone needs a social life, for many people school and work will keep them too busy for friends. Usually it does help relieve the stress of school and work if you have a social life, in the end only you can decide what is right for you.
Lastly, we must address those that you can’t see while you are away at school. You remember it so clearly:
With tears in her eyes your mom waves goodbye to you and your father stands solace. You hug them both and then you are free; you’re a college student! Now a few weeks have gone by and you have started classes, made some new friends, and started to realize that mom and dad are not here. They won’t be there to do that huge pile of laundry that’s growing exponentially in your dorm room, or make dinner, it all lands on you. I know scary, but remember those friends you have been making, well guess what they are in the same boat. But that’s not all, you also miss your best friend from home. Well, if you are in need of some comfort, here is my advice to you.
1. Laundry takes forever, and forces you to stay close by this is a great opportunity to do some of that studying you have been neglecting. It is also a good time management tool, which is what half of college is all about.
2. Get involved in an extra curricular activity not only will you make more friends but you will be amazed how well some of your friends cook. Dinner party are always fun.
3. Thanksgiving and Christmas are closer than you think this is also a great opportunity to take home some laundry and you will get your fill of the family. This is also a good time to catch up with old friends and make plans for them to come visit you at school.
4. Facebook and myspace are also awesome tools to keep in touch with old friends don’t forget to utilize these.
If you follow these simple and basic ideas I believe it will make your college experience fun and fruitful. A lot of people go through the same problems you see yourself in; you are not alone. Take our advice, put yourself out there, and grab the bull by the balls. Make it happen.
How to survive at UC.
We all have struggled from time to time while enrolled at school. Three of the biggest problems we face are succeeding academically, making friends, and getting home sick. Well our group has presented the problems and described potential solutions. So if you find yourself facing tough times at school, read on and we will guide you toward success and happiness.
I am Jacob. I am the group’s primary instructor for the “Academic Success” field. Rereading the previous sentence makes me chuckle. I have never seen myself as a role model for “Academic Success”, and find it humorous I am responsible for showing others how to do what I have struggled with in the past. Personally, if you are looking for advice that holds any serious weight in regards to how to stay “on top” of your college academics, I suggest you take this section with a grain of salt. Regardless, I will do my best, because I know in theory anyone should be able to do this. Maybe this can suffice as a personal “self help” guide.
Habit is the single most important key to success. If throughout high school, you studied for all your exams and did your homework, you probably aren’t having as much trouble as me and a select few. If you learned to scrape through high school without ever doing much, you are the one who needs my help. You have to get into the habit of reading over class’s material for the day. You have to get into the habit of studying for the exam more than one day in advance for you exams. You need to get OUT of the habit of partying. That’s what high school was for. Now, it isn’t going to get you anything but a hangover. This is when you need to begin exploring yourself as an individual with personal wants and needs. In other words, college is a place for self-discovery. Kids will go into college thinking it is expected that they have already set a direction for which to travel. Nobody knows what they want to do when they are eighteen. NOBODY. (except those weird virtuoso kids who are playing concertos at the age of 5. Those guys don’t have much choice.) I am 20, and only now am I starting to map out the route I want to take to “success”.
All I can say is remember the kid you resented? The one who got straight A’s and sat in the front of the class, giving apples to the teacher? Well, now is the time to BE THAT KID!
The next common issue that we feel should be addressed is many students’ lack of a social life. Having a social life at a large University can be challenging, most college students have to work while going to school full time, which makes having a social life even more difficult. The University of Cincinnati has tried to ease the burden a little by introducing students to one another at orientation, and putting up different activities on the University web-site. Listed below are ways to make having a social life easier your first year at college.
From the internet you can find many different activities, and social clubs to join on or around campus.
· Go to the University web-site www.uc.edu
· click on current student
· On the right side of the page you will find Campus life and beyond
· In this area there are multiple links to click on which include
· Bearcast radio
· Campus Rec Center
· Ethnic programs
· Main street
· News radio
· Video
· Leadership development
· Student activities
· Student organizations
· Student government association
· Volunteering in the community
I feel that anyone can find at least one thing they are interested in under one of these links. If you are not computer friendly, or just do not have internet access, then here is a different list for you.
· Student orientation introduces you to other new students
· Student orientation gives you a short walk around campus to get a feel for where things are at
· Look at the signs in the hallways of the buildings, there are always postings for student activities, and other things to do such as parties
· Make friends by talking to the people sitting around you in class
· Join a fraternity
· Go to college sporting events
· If all else fails look for the parties and go there
Not everyone needs a social life, for many people school and work will keep them too busy for friends. Usually it does help relieve the stress of school and work if you have a social life, in the end only you can decide what is right for you.
Lastly, we must address those that you can’t see while you are away at school. You remember it so clearly:
With tears in her eyes your mom waves goodbye to you and your father stands solace. You hug them both and then you are free; you’re a college student! Now a few weeks have gone by and you have started classes, made some new friends, and started to realize that mom and dad are not here. They won’t be there to do that huge pile of laundry that’s growing exponentially in your dorm room, or make dinner, it all lands on you. I know scary, but remember those friends you have been making, well guess what they are in the same boat. But that’s not all, you also miss your best friend from home. Well, if you are in need of some comfort, here is my advice to you.
1. Laundry takes forever, and forces you to stay close by this is a great opportunity to do some of that studying you have been neglecting. It is also a good time management tool, which is what half of college is all about.
2. Get involved in an extra curricular activity not only will you make more friends but you will be amazed how well some of your friends cook. Dinner party are always fun.
3. Thanksgiving and Christmas are closer than you think this is also a great opportunity to take home some laundry and you will get your fill of the family. This is also a good time to catch up with old friends and make plans for them to come visit you at school.
4. Facebook and myspace are also awesome tools to keep in touch with old friends don’t forget to utilize these.
If you follow these simple and basic ideas I believe it will make your college experience fun and fruitful. A lot of people go through the same problems you see yourself in; you are not alone. Take our advice, put yourself out there, and grab the bull by the balls. Make it happen.
Annotated Bibliography
Annotated Bibliography
I am researching bicycles, their history, and why they exist
Yepson, Roger. Humanpower. New York: Macmillan Publishing Company, 1992. Print.
This books goes into detail about bicycles, and human powered vehicles in general. It talks about their history, their potential future, and their significance. It discusses why bicycles make so much sense; including their efficiency, low cost, ease of transportation, and practicality. It is not exclusive to bicycles either. It talks about human powered air vehicles and boats. A very fun read that is extremely informative.
Furber, Matt. "Portlandm Prtland Style: Tourning by Bicycle." New York Times April 3, 2009 Web.10 May 2009.
This article uses Portland, Oregon as an example of how bicycles feed off of a thriving city, and vise versa. This thriving city is only so because of ample bicycle use. Bicycles in Portland have created an entire subculture of art, expression, competition, commute, and all-around fun. A large focus of this article is on the fact that when one travel via bicycle, the city is seen in a new light, while the rider is immersed into his or her environment, instead of merely passing through.
Lee, Trymaine. "Police officer Who Shoved Bicyclist is off the Job." New York Times Febuary 19, 2009 Web.10 May 2009.
This article in the New York Times reports on the unfortunate hostility towards bicyclist in urban environments. A New York police officer, of all people, intentionally pushed a bicyclist off of his bicycle. Shortly thereafter, he resigned his position. This is a prime example of the fairly frequent acts of aggression towards people on bicycles.
Williams, Alex. "A Field Guide to the New York City Bicyclist." New YorkTiems Style June 2007 Web.10 May 2009.
This is a Collection of photographs that shows the variety of people bicycles appeal to. It depicts a fairly wide array of indivuals with their bicycles of choice. This includes: The Noble Rider, with his vintage “PeeWee Hermin style bicycle. The Fixed Gear Rider, a Ray-Ban toting hipster looking individual with an over simplified road bike slung over his shoulder. And the Vintage-Bike Fasion Gal, a young, stylinsh girl riding a bike that looks like Dorothy and Toro’s bicycle. This article shows how many different kinds of people can enjoy bicycles.
Winston, Jeff. "Tokyo Fixed Gears." Church of ChoppersMarch 2009 Web.10 May 2009.
This is a collection of artistic photographs of bicycles and their riders in Tokyo. It provides insight into the cultural aspects of bicycling, more specifically; fixed gear culture. While not particularly informative, it does exemplify how there is a strong artistic tie between bicycles2 and art. They are usually present simultaneously.
"Sarah Candy Cane." OMFGbikes.com. 2009. 10 May 2009
This is a portrait of a girl; “Sarah Candy Cane” with a bicycle. The piece does not necessarily revolve around the bike, but shows a harmony or unity between the bike and girl. This could possibly be metaphorical for what bicycling means for a lot of people.
Degroot, G. "Power, Muscular Work, and External Forces in Cycling." January 1994 Web.10 May 2009
This online article is relevant because of its thorough investigation of bicycling efficiency. It describes the results of a study conducted to locate the true places energy is lost in the transfer from you body into motion. Very informative and useful. It includes friction, wind resistance, and other factors.
Bonham, Jennifer. "Pedaling the city: Intra Urban Differences in Cylling for the Journey to Work." December 2008 Web.10 May 2009.
This article investigates different factors that influence a bicycle commuters journey to work in a given socio-economic location. This is relevant because anyone who decides to commute by bicycle will either consciously or subconsciously create a route to get to where they want to go.
Novotni, Carter. "Bike Co-op Thrives in Northside." Citybeat Magazine June 6, 2007: Print.
An article found in our very own “Citybeat” magazine talks about the establishment and success of Northside’s bicycle co-op. This is obviously important because it provides insight into Cincinnati’s bike scene, as well as attitude towards bicycles. I will probably go check out the co-op for myseslf as a form of field research to get an idea of what it is like.
Cross, Danny. "By the Numbers." Citybeat magazineSeptember 3, 2008: Print.
Actually providing some hard facts and statistical data, this short, but informative article listed out multiple useful facts in regards to bicycling. This includes health benefits, financial benefits, etc.
I am researching bicycles, their history, and why they exist
Yepson, Roger. Humanpower. New York: Macmillan Publishing Company, 1992. Print.
This books goes into detail about bicycles, and human powered vehicles in general. It talks about their history, their potential future, and their significance. It discusses why bicycles make so much sense; including their efficiency, low cost, ease of transportation, and practicality. It is not exclusive to bicycles either. It talks about human powered air vehicles and boats. A very fun read that is extremely informative.
Furber, Matt. "Portlandm Prtland Style: Tourning by Bicycle." New York Times April 3, 2009 Web.10 May 2009.
This article uses Portland, Oregon as an example of how bicycles feed off of a thriving city, and vise versa. This thriving city is only so because of ample bicycle use. Bicycles in Portland have created an entire subculture of art, expression, competition, commute, and all-around fun. A large focus of this article is on the fact that when one travel via bicycle, the city is seen in a new light, while the rider is immersed into his or her environment, instead of merely passing through.
Lee, Trymaine. "Police officer Who Shoved Bicyclist is off the Job." New York Times Febuary 19, 2009 Web.10 May 2009.
This article in the New York Times reports on the unfortunate hostility towards bicyclist in urban environments. A New York police officer, of all people, intentionally pushed a bicyclist off of his bicycle. Shortly thereafter, he resigned his position. This is a prime example of the fairly frequent acts of aggression towards people on bicycles.
Williams, Alex. "A Field Guide to the New York City Bicyclist." New YorkTiems Style June 2007 Web.10 May 2009.
This is a Collection of photographs that shows the variety of people bicycles appeal to. It depicts a fairly wide array of indivuals with their bicycles of choice. This includes: The Noble Rider, with his vintage “PeeWee Hermin style bicycle. The Fixed Gear Rider, a Ray-Ban toting hipster looking individual with an over simplified road bike slung over his shoulder. And the Vintage-Bike Fasion Gal, a young, stylinsh girl riding a bike that looks like Dorothy and Toro’s bicycle. This article shows how many different kinds of people can enjoy bicycles.
Winston, Jeff. "Tokyo Fixed Gears." Church of ChoppersMarch 2009 Web.10 May 2009.
This is a collection of artistic photographs of bicycles and their riders in Tokyo. It provides insight into the cultural aspects of bicycling, more specifically; fixed gear culture. While not particularly informative, it does exemplify how there is a strong artistic tie between bicycles2 and art. They are usually present simultaneously.
"Sarah Candy Cane." OMFGbikes.com. 2009. 10 May 2009
This is a portrait of a girl; “Sarah Candy Cane” with a bicycle. The piece does not necessarily revolve around the bike, but shows a harmony or unity between the bike and girl. This could possibly be metaphorical for what bicycling means for a lot of people.
Degroot, G. "Power, Muscular Work, and External Forces in Cycling." January 1994 Web.10 May 2009
This online article is relevant because of its thorough investigation of bicycling efficiency. It describes the results of a study conducted to locate the true places energy is lost in the transfer from you body into motion. Very informative and useful. It includes friction, wind resistance, and other factors.
Bonham, Jennifer. "Pedaling the city: Intra Urban Differences in Cylling for the Journey to Work." December 2008 Web.10 May 2009.
This article investigates different factors that influence a bicycle commuters journey to work in a given socio-economic location. This is relevant because anyone who decides to commute by bicycle will either consciously or subconsciously create a route to get to where they want to go.
Novotni, Carter. "Bike Co-op Thrives in Northside." Citybeat Magazine June 6, 2007: Print.
An article found in our very own “Citybeat” magazine talks about the establishment and success of Northside’s bicycle co-op. This is obviously important because it provides insight into Cincinnati’s bike scene, as well as attitude towards bicycles. I will probably go check out the co-op for myseslf as a form of field research to get an idea of what it is like.
Cross, Danny. "By the Numbers." Citybeat magazineSeptember 3, 2008: Print.
Actually providing some hard facts and statistical data, this short, but informative article listed out multiple useful facts in regards to bicycling. This includes health benefits, financial benefits, etc.
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