Angel

Angel

lunes, 22 de noviembre de 2010

SOME INTERESTING ARTICLES ABOUT:
Learning English Using Technology




http://www.eyespeakenglish.com/?source=spk_eng_4


http://www.rdi.co.uk/landing-pages/fulltime-ibam-south-america-content-google.html


http://www.babbel.com/learn-italian-online?gclid=CLGikOOZraUCFUXu7QodnUADYQ


http://www.schoolofenglish.org.uk/courses/academic-english/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=15&gclid=CJuBsYaaraUCFdhi2godKCpmZQ

jueves, 18 de noviembre de 2010

Assignment

Using email: issues
Below is a series of issues that might arise when using email with learners. Suggest a solution for each.
1. Your learners don’t have email accounts.
Help your learners to set up email accounts with a free web-based email such as Yahoo!
Or hotmail.
2. Your learners don’t know how to send or open attachments.
Provide your learners with some basic hands-on technical training in email use. This may or may not include covering areas such as virus protection or spam, depending on how much skill they already have.
3. Your learners use abbreviations such as CU (see you) or the lower case I in all their email.
Make your learners aware of issues of appropriacy and netiquette in email use. You could use task B above to do this.
4. You would like to provide your learners with a weekly emailed summary of classwork covered, but have no time to do so.
Encourage different learners to do this every week, and aware credit for it, or make it part of a portfolio assignment.
5. Your learners are reluctant to do the extra work that belonging to a class email discussion list involves, and do not contribute much.
Be prepared to drop an idea if learners are not convinced of its value. If out-of-class email activities do not work, try an in class email project such as a short information gathering activity, and be sure to discuss the benefits of such an activity with learners.
6. In a keypal project, your learners don’t know what to write to their partner in another country.
Provide a clear task with detailed gidelines. For lower-level learners, you could even provide a model email for learners to base their own emails on.
7. Your learners are upset by emails received from the partner country, as they find them rude or aggressive.
Discuss issue of intercultural communication with your learners, and how their own first language norms in writing compare with English. What are the different and similarities? How might this affect the partner country’s writing of emails? It’s a good idea to raise this issue in intercultural projects early on, so that learners are prepared for- and more tolerant of-differences in style and register.

Assignment

Halloween is a party held mainly in United States October 31st. It was originated in Celtic festivities and the Christians festival of All Saints Day. In most parts, it is a secular celebration, although some people believe that it has a religious background. The Irish immigrants passed some versions of this tradition to North America during Irish Potato Famine
The word Halloween (AFI / ˌ hæl.əʊi ː n /) is a derivation of the phrase All Hallows' Eve (Eve of All Saints). It was celebrated in Anglo countries like Canada, United States, Ireland and United Kingdom. The expansive force of the culture E. U. Halloween popular celebrates in other countries in the west.
The day is often associated with orange and black colors and it is strongly linked to symbols as Jack-o'-lantern. Typical activities include the famous Halloween or treat and costume parties in addition to fires. Children visit haunted houses, make Jokes, read scary stories and watch horror films.

What is Halloween?
Do you like Halloween?
Which date Halloween celebrates?
Where Halloween comes from?
What children usually do in Halloween?
Do you celebrate Halloween?

Elizabeth Arguello: Assignment

Look at the following email written to solicit information from the website save the whale circle the elements that are inappropriate and note down why they are inappropriate then rewrite the email in a more appropriate style

HI I LIKE YOUR SITE “saves the whales
i’m preparing for a presentation at my school about why whales are in danger of extinction J

i want u to send me some stuff about this like brochures posters etc!!! i need it by tonite !!!
Cu!




Hi I like your site “save the whales”
I’m preparing for a presentation at my school about why whales are in danger of extinction. I want you to send me more information about this like brochures posters etc. I need it by tonight.
Could you send me as soon as possible please?

Elizabeth Arguello: Assignment

Egypt
De Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre
Saltar a navegación, búsqueda
For other uses of this term, see Egypt (disambiguation).
جمهورية مصرالعربية
Misr al-ʿ Gumhūriyyat Arabiyyah

Arab Republic of Egypt



Flag
Shield


Slogan"Silence and patience, freedom, socialism and unity"1

National anthem: Bilady, Bilady, Bilady





Capital
(And largest city)
Cairo
30 ° 5 'N 31 ° 25' E

Official Languages
Arabic

Form of government
Republic

President
Prime Minister
Hosni Mubarak
Ahmed Nazif

Independence
• Partial
• Total Of United Kingdom
February 28 of 1922
August 26 of 1936

Surface
• Total
•% water
Borders
Since 30 th
1.001.450 km ²
0.6%
2689 km

Total population
• Total
• Density
Since 15 th
83.082.869 (2009)
82.96 hab / km ²
GDP (Nominal)
• Total (2007)
• GDP per capita
Since 53 º
U.S. $ 127,930 million
U.S. $ 1,738 (2007)
HDI (2007)
0,703 (123 º) -medium

Currency
Libra (LE, £ E, EGP) = 100 piastres
Natives
Egyptian-a
Time zone
• in summer
TSE (UTC+2)
EEST (UTC+3)

Internet Domain
. Eg, مصر.
Telephone code
+20
Radio code
6AA-6BZ, SSA-SSM SUA-SUZ
ISO Code
818 / EGY / EG
Member: Arab League, UN, UA

1. ↑ Unverified


The Arab Republic of Egypt (In Arabic مصر Misr) Is a country AfricaLocated in the extreme northeast, and includes Sinai (Belonging to the continent Asia.) Most of the integration surface Sahara DesertOnly inhabited around oasis. Its capital is Cairo (القاهرة).
It is one of the most populous countries in Africa, Most of which sits on the banks of Nile River and delta where areas of fertile land. Nearly half of Egyptians live in urban areas, especially in densely populated centers Cairo and Alexandria.
Egypt is famous for its ancient civilization and monumentsSuch as pyramids and the great sphinx; The southern city of Luxor contains a large number of ancient artifacts, such as the temple of Karnak and Valley of the Kings. Today, Egypt is an important cultural and political center of Middle East.
Content
[hide]
• 1 Etymology
• 2 History
• 3 Politics
o 3.1 Human Rights
o 3.2 Political-administrative organization
• 4 Geography
o 4.1 Hydrography
o 4.2 Flora and Fauna
o 4.3 Weather
• 5 Ecology
• 6 Economy
o 6.1 Tourism
o 6.2 Agriculture
o 6.3 Industry and Mining
• 7 Transport
o 7.1 Air transport
o 7.2 River transport
o 7.3 Rail
o 7.4 Taxi
o 7.5 Urban transportation
o 7.6 Metro
o 7.7 Car
• 8 Media
o 8.1 Press
o 8.2 Magazines
o 8.3 Radio
o 8.4 Telecommunications
• 9 Demography
o 9.1 Ethnic groups
o 9.2 Language
o 9.3 Religion
o 9.4 Living standards
o 9.5 Education
 9.5.1 Statistics
• 10 Health
• 11 Culture
o 11.1 Ancient times
o 11.2 Byzantine Egypt (395-642)
o 11.3 Islamic Egypt
 11.3.1 Architecture
 11.3.2 Music
 11.3.3 Film
• 12 Sports
• 13 See also
• 14 References
• 15 Bibliography
• 16 External Links

Etymology
The country's former name, Kemet (Km.t), Or "black earth", is derived from the fertile limos black deposited by the Nile floods, distinct from the 'red earth' (Dsr.t) desert. The name became kimi and kīmə in stage Coptic of Egyptian language, And was translated into primitive Greek as Χημία (Jemi).
Misra, the Arab official name (مصر) is originally from Egypt Semitic said to a close. The Hebrew name for Egypt is מִצְרַיִם (Egypt), Which literally means 'two narrow', a reference to the historical separation in Alto and Lower Egypt. Misr originally meant 'Metropolis', 'civilization' and 'country' or 'borderland'.
مصر The name derives from the Semitic root صار (Sr), indicating narrowness. Some say that the etymology of the Hebrew word מַצֵר (Metz) צור derived from the root (SR, صار) and the prefix מֵ (I). מַצֵר also written מֵיצַר (Meytzar). Others say it derives from מֵי (Mey), Water, and צֵר (Tzar), Wide.
The Spanish name, Egypt, comes from Latin Aegyptus, which in turn derived from the word Greek Αίγυπτος (Aigyptos). The term was adopted Coptic as Gyptian, and passed into Arabic as Qubt. It has been suggested that the word is a corruption of the Egyptian phrase Hwt-k3-pth, Meaning "house of the spirit (ka) Of Ptah ", the name of a temple to the god Ptah in Memphis. According to Strabo, The Greek term meaning Aigyptos' beyond Aegean'(Aἰγαίου ὑπτίως, Uptiōs Aegaeon.)
History


The Nile and the Great Pyramid.
Main article: History of Egypt
The wealth that brought the fertile silt after the annual flooding of the Nile, together with the absence of powerful people nearby enemies due to their isolation, because the Nile valley is located between two large areas desertAllowed for the development of one of the first and most dazzling civilizations in the history of mankind.
The first inhabitants of Egypt, reached the banks of the Nile, then a cluster of mudflats and outbreak of malaria, escaping from the desertification of the Sahara. The first communities were living the country, and is structured into regions called nomos. Over time and after periods of agreements and disputes the prefectures were grouped into two proto-nations, Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt. Egypt is unified around the year 3200 BCFrom the Pharaoh Menes (Narmer on his Egyptian name).
The history of Ancient Egypt is divided into three kingdoms with intermediate periods of internal conflict and domination by foreign rulers. The Old Kingdom was characterized by the flourishing of the arts and the construction of huge pyramids. During the Middle Kingdom (2050-1800 BC), following a period of decentralization, Egypt enjoyed a period of splendor in its economy. In the New Kingdom (1567-1085 BC) Egyptian monarchy reached its golden age conquering neighboring peoples and expanding their domains under the direction of Pharaohs of XVIII Dynasty. The last dynasty was overthrown by the Persian in year 341 BC, Who in turn were replaced by elected Greek and Roman, A period that began around the year 30 BC as a result of the defeat of Marco Antonio in Battle of Actium, Which brought seven centuries of relative peace and economic stability. From mid-fourth century, Egypt was part of the Eastern Empire, which became the Byzantine Empire.
After the death of Muhammad, At 642, there is the Arab invasion, which took over the government of the country with the consent of the Coptic Christians. The Arab introduced Islam and Arabic in VII century and ruled the next six centuries. At the end of the tenth century, for a short time Fatamidas were made with the government. Will follow the time Saladin will represent a cultural and economic renaissance encouraged by the spirit of jihad, holy war in response to cross Christian. Between 1250 and 1517, Mamluk, Which were part of a local military caste, took control of the government about the year 1250Defeated the Mongols unstoppable progress in Asia, but were unable to prevent the occupation of the country and government control by the Ottoman Turks 1517.
Under Ottoman rule, Egypt was relegated to a marginal position within the larger Ottoman Empire. Although the Mamelukes regained power for a brief period in 1798, Army Napoleon occupied the country. Neither the French occupation was short-lived, barely left a mark but was the beginning of the studies Egyptological on ancient culture.


The Battle of the Nile, 1798. Thomas Luny.
After the departure of French troops, a series of civil wars between Ottomans, Mamluks and mercenaries Albanian, Until 1805 Egypt gained independence and was appointed Sultan Muhammed Ali (Kavalali Mehmed Ali Pasha), who had arrived in the country as viceroy to reconquer on behalf of the Turkish Empire, and would take a pro-Western foreign policy by undertaking a series of reforms that combine traditional strategies centralization of power with the importation of European models for the creation of new military structures, educational, industrial and agriculture, including irrigation schemes, which were continued and expanded by his grandson and successor, Ismail Pasha, the first Khedive.
Following the opening of Suez Canal in 1869, Egypt became an important communications center, but fell down into heavy debt. The British took control of the government as protectorate to 1882, Which was strongly protested again declared independence in 1922, with a new constitution and a parliamentary regime. Saad Zaghlul was chosen as Prime Minister Egypt in 1924 and 1936 the so-called Anglo-Egyptian treaty gave to an end. The interference continued political instability remained British until 1952, when a coup forced the king Faruk I to abdicate and led the Colonel Gamal Abdel NasserAs Chairman of the new government.
Nasser declared the public ownership of the Suez Canal which resulted in a significant improvement to the Egyptian Treasury, although this had to be confronted militarily in 1956 to the combined forces of French, British and Israelis who tried unsuccessfully to overthrow the government (Suez Crisis.) This military victory Nasser placed at the head of Middle Eastern leaders and as example for the Arab world to get rid of foreign interference.


Bank of Nile RiverIn Egypt
Among 1958 and 1961 Egypt, under President Gamal Abdel NasserFormed part, together with Syria, The United Arab Republic.
The defeat of Arab forces by Israel in 1967 during the Six Day War, Depriving Egypt of the Sinai Peninsula and Gaza Strip, only recovered after the defeat by the Israelis in Yom Kippur War 1973, which was followed by the signing by Nasser's successor, Anwar el-Sadat, Agreement Camp DavidIn 1979. This treaty was repudiated by the Arab world, and its consequences were the expulsion of Egypt from Arab League and the rise of Islamic fundamentalism in the country after the revolution Iranian. In 1981 Sadat was assassinated and was succeeded Hosni Mubarak, Who held the policies of his predecessor. Appropriate domestic policy has managed to overcome fundamentalism, despite some attacks against foreign tourists to damage the main source of income in the country: Tourism.
After the Amman Summit in 1987, Egypt initiated the recovery of their previous dealings with the Arab countries, especially Saudi Arabia, Which entails the rehabilitation of Mubarak and his government in the eyes of other Arab political leaders. Since then, Egypt used his prestige to mediate between Israel and Palestine, and in 1993 supported the signing of the agreements that led to the start of Palestinian autonomy, advocating the formation of a future Palestinian state.
In 2003 launched the Egyptian Movement for Change, popularly known as Kifaya, to seek a return to democracy and greater civil liberties.
Politics
Main article: Politics of Egypt
Is a unitary, presidential republic whose president, as head of state and supreme commander of the armed forces the country, represents the executive elected by a popular referendum for a period of six years and may be elected only once.


Map of Egypt.
• Official name: Arab Republic of Egypt
• Legal system based on the 1971 Constitution.
• National legislation: unicameral system (Majlis al-Shaab, or village assembly).
• Electoral system: universal suffrage.
• Head of state: President, nominated by a majority of two thirds of the assembly and elected by referendum.
• The national government: Council of Ministers, chaired by the prime minister.
• Main political parties: National Democratic Party, the Socialist Labor Party, Liberal Socialist Party, New Wafd, the Progressive National Unionist Party.
Although apparently the power is organized under a multiparty system in practice for over fifty years the president has chosen a single candidate elections. Egypt also multiparty parliamentary elections held regularly. In February 2005 President Hosni Mubarak announced the reform of the law for the presidential election, so that in the 2010 elections there will be several candidates for the first time since 1952 and limits the term to seven years with only two terms. In 2007 was held referendum which approved the increase of presidential powers.

Human Rights
Regarding human rightsWith respect to membership in the seven bodies of the International Bill of Human Rights, which include Human Rights Committee (HRC), Egypt has signed or ratified:
Status of major international human rights.1

Egypt International Treaties
CESCR2
CCPR3
CERD4
CED5
CEDAW6
CAT7
CRC8
MWC9
CRPD10

CESCR CESCR-OP
CCPR CCPR-OP1 CCPR-OP2-DP CEDAW CEDAW-OP CAT CAT-OP CRC CRC-OP-AC CRC-OP-SC CRPD CRPD-OP

Membership

















Signed and ratified signed but not ratified neither signed nor ratified no information has agreed to sign and ratify the organ in question, but also recognizes the competence to receive and process individual communications by the competent bodies.
Political-administrative organization
Main article: Governorates of Egypt
Egypt is divided into 29 governorates or provinces (muhafazah, The singular muhafazat.)11
In alphabetical order are:


Map of the Egyptian governorates.
Interior Capital Location Interior Capital Location
October 6
October 6
Upper Egypt
Kafr el Sheikh
Kafr el Sheikh
Lower Egypt

Alexandria
Alexandria
Delta
Luxor
Luxor
Upper Egypt
Asyut
Asyut
Upper Egypt Matruh
Mersa Matruh
West
Aswan
Aswan
Upper Egypt Red Sea
Hurghada
Red Sea

Behera
Damanhur
Delta Menia
Menia
Delta
Beni Suef
Beni Suef
Upper Egypt Menoufia
Shibin el-Kom
Delta
Caliubia
Banha
Lower Egypt
New Valley
The jariy
West
Dakahlia
Mansura
Lower Egypt Port Said
Port Said
Canal

Damietta
Damietta
Delta Quina
Qina
Upper Egypt
Cairo
Cairo
Center Sharkia
Zaqaziq
Lower Egypt
Fayún
Fayún
Upper Egypt North Sinai
El Arish
Sinai

Gharbia
Tanta
Lower Egypt South Sinai
El Tor
Sinai
Guiza
Guiza
Upper Egypt Suez
Suez
Canal
Helwan
Helwan
Upper Egypt Suhag
Suhag
Upper Egypt
Ismailia
Ismailia
Canal


Geography


Satellite view of Egypt.
Main article: Geography of Egypt
Egypt is in the northeast corner of Africa, Has a coastline on the Mediterranean Sea and Red Sea. To the west Libya, South Sudan, North to the Mediterranean and east to the Red Sea and Israel. Its territory covers an area of 1,001,450 km ² (for comparison purposes that is half that of Mexico.)
Is overwhelmingly occupied by the Desert Sahara, Which is crossed by a single river, Nile, Which irrigates the country's only fertile land and has been the main source of wealth and enabled the development of various cultures throughout the history of Egypt. Flows into the Mediterranean forming a delta about 200 km long from north to south and between Alexandria and Damietta east-west.
The climate is desert in most of the territory, lack of rain (although in recent years the humidity has increased considerably in Cairo), with cold nights and hot days. On the north coast, along the delta, has Mediterranean climate, With an average rainfall of 18 mm.
As inhospitable territory the population is settled mainly along the Nile, although some locations are also important Mediterranean and Red Sea.
In Egypt there is the Suez Canal, Which connects the Mediterranean with the Red, and separates the main part of Egyptian territory Sinai Peninsula, Which borders with Israel.
The Egyptian government maintains 21 nature reserves covering a total of 53 000 km ², 5% of the country. The largest of these, the Elba National Park to the south, with different ecosystems: Mangroves Red Sea 22 islands, coral reefs, coastal dunes, coastal salt marshes, coastal desert plains and mountains area: Jabal Elba, 1437 m altitude, and Al Jabal Ebruq Daeeb.
Hydrography
The Nile River is the second worldwide in length, with 6,497 km long, after Amazon (6,800 km). Its course through Egypt is 1,550 km, and the area Nile Delta has 24,000 km ².
The Nile enters Egypt near Wadi Halfa over the southern border. Flows through the desert valley fertilizing 1.5 to 2 km wide to Aswan. In Aswan, cross the last falls and flows through the valley, which runs from 5 to 20 km, to Cairo, situated about 700 km. Walk another 300 km to the sea irrigating the vast delta of the Nile, branching off into several branches and wetlands. The delta has a coastline with gaps of 250 km long.
The Valley and the Nile delta are covered with very fertile land, caused by silt deposited by the river for thousands of years in a thick layer of 10 to 12 m. Each year, August to OctoberRose the level of the Nile, the river poured its waters flooding the valley and delta. After retiring from the water, leaving behind the limo, which restore and fertilize the soil. After the construction of the great Aswan Dam, The flow is stable throughout the year.
In the land of Egypt, the Nile receives no permanent tributaries. The prevailing climate of the valley is very hot desert. Only the coast with frequent rains. The growing period in general, not interrupted, and the plants grow throughout the year. These natural conditions have made the Nile River valley world's largest oasis.
Besides soil and seawater, Egypt is endowed with valuable mineral salts. The Sinai Peninsula and the coast have oil deposits. On this coast there are some areas of phosphates. The west of the delta, on the Mediterranean coast has salt of rock.
Flora and Fauna
The vegetation of Egypt is limited to the Delta, the Nile Valley and desert oases. The most widespread is the tree of coconut. Other species of native trees are acaciaThe Tamaris and karob. The trees that come from other continents are cypressThe eucalyptus, Mimosa, and several fruit trees. The alluvial soils of Egypt, especially in the Delta, are suitable for growing various plants and fruits, including grapes, all kinds of vegetables, flowers like lotusThe jasmine and rose. In desert areas, often growing bushes and grass grow for cattle. The papyrusBefore present along the Nile, is now at the southern tip of Egypt. Due to the desert climate of Egypt local fauna is very varied. There gazelles in the desert, and foxes, hyenas, jackals and boar living in different areas, mainly in the delta and the mountains along the Red Sea. Several species of reptiles and venomous snakes. The crocodiles, Formerly lived in the Lower EgyptNow mostly living in the southern Upper Egypt. There Flemish, eagles, vultures, pelicans and more than 493 known species. There are many insects and scorpions that live in desert areas. In lakes and the Nile, there are about 70 species of fish.
Weather


Aerial view of clouds in Egypt.
Egypt is in the subtropical zone. The climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and warm winters, ie, warm period May to September and cold November to March. The highest temperature in both periods is caused by winds from the north. In coastal areas the average maximum temperature range is 37 ° C and a low of 14 ° C. Large temperature variations are the most common incidents in the desert, with daily maximum of 46 ° C and minimum of 6 ° C overnight. During the winter the temperature at night drops to 0 ° C. More humid areas are along the Mediterranean coast, and the average rainfall is 200 mm per year, while the average rainfall in Cairo is only 26 mm per year in areas natural fall storms every few years. Rainfall decreases towards the south, while the temperature increases.
The Kamsin (desert stormy wind, dry and warm) occurs in April and May and reaches speeds up to 150 km / h.
Ecology
Virtually the entire country for the biome desert. WWF divides the territory from Egypt in nine ecoregions:
• Mediterranean shrubland, A small enclave of Mediterranean forest west of the Nile Delta
• Flooded savanna in the Nile DeltaIn the delta and lower Nile Valley,
• North Saharan steppeIn the north,
• Tropical desert and semi-desert of the Red SeaIn the Red Sea coast of the Sinai Peninsula
• Mount Desert and xeric Arabia and the SinaiIn the rest of Sinai
• Red Sea coastal desert, On the African coast of the Red Sea
• Sahara SalobralIn oasis of Siwa and other Wetlands Saharan,
• Xeric Monte Tibesti Massif and Mount UweinatIn Mount Uweinat, On the border with Libya and Sudan
• Sahara DesertIn the rest of the country.
Economy
Main article: Egypt's economy
Joined
The wealth of Egypt in ancient times, not only based on agriculture, whose farmland is fertilized with the silt from annual floods NileBut also an important export was papyrus, The reed-like plant that grew in the marshes of the delta number that was used to produce material for writing. Egyptian mines of the mountains located along the Red Sea (And on the Sinai) Produced gold and Copper, With the latter metal items were made Bronze which were also exported. Due to the scarcity of forest, Egypt was forced to import wood from PhoeniciaEspecially cedars port cities, such as ShotWhere greatly appreciated flax Egyptian assorted colors. Many Egyptian temples and monuments were built with cut stone blocks, material that was abundant in the hills flanking the Nile Valley: Area Memphis with limestoneAnd in the region Thebes with sandstone. The current houses and even palaces, were built of adobe (The material used for construction of buildings). The obelisksMany statues, sarcophagi and the coating of some pyramids were carved in very hard rocks like granite from quarries Aswan.
News
The agricultural reforms of 1952 and 1961 and the Building Aswan DamHave caused an agricultural revolution which has increased production, but has brought many problems: When paid with chemicals, not the river floods, it is affecting the biological equilibrium of the area, leading to soil salinization and appearing new parasites . The most important crop is cotton.
Egypt is predominantly an agricultural country, since about 40% of the workforce engaged in agricultural crops or livestock. Egypt's economy was socialized after the promulgation of a series of laws in early 1961. The pattern of land ownership was very upset by the Agrarian Reform Act of 1952, which limited individual holdings to about 80 ha, A figure revised in 1961 to about 40 hectares, and revised again to about 20 hectares in 1969.
The land requisitioned by the government were distributed among the peasants (fellahin), But there are still major economic differences between the middle class and farmers. Government programs have expanded growing areas through reclamation, irrigation (especially since the end of the Aswan Dam, 1970), and the use of advanced technology such as chemical fertilizers and mechanized equipment.
The performance of Egypt's agricultural land is among the highest in the world. Egypt is a leading worldwide producer of commodity cotton, the annual production of cotton fiber was about 300,000 metric tons in early 1990. The warm climate and abundant water allow up to three crops a year, providing abundant agricultural crops. In 1990 the estimated annual production in millions of metric tons, including rice (3.9), tomatoes (4.7), wheat (4.6), maize (5.2), sugarcane (3 , 1), potatoes (1.8), and oranges (1.7). It is also cultivated a wide variety of other fruits and vegetables.
The main livestock industry in Egypt is the breeding of beasts of burden. The cattle in the early 1990, including about 3 million cattle, 3 million buffaloes, 4.4 million sheep, 4.8 million goats, 1.6 million donkeys, and 40 million poultry corral.
Egypt has major oil and gas, but most exploited industry is tourism, since the pyramids and relics of ancient civilization attracts many people every year. It is one of the most stable economies in the region, with GDP per capita of $ 4,274 (data WHO for 2004).


Egyptian pound.
The monetary unit is the Egyptian pound, Which is divided into 100 piastres; Runs with the following values:
• Pound banknotes: 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1.
• Piastres banknotes: 50, 25, 10 and 5.
• Piastres coins: 10, 5, 1 and 1 / 2.
Official rate:
• U.S. $ 1: 5.46 Egyptian pounds (November 19, 2009).
• 1 euro: 8.1 Egyptian pounds (November 19, 2009).
During the past 40 years, the Egyptian government has adopted strategies that range from a Soviet command economy to a market economy, with several variations between the two, dominated by moderate socialist tendencies last tried to prosper the country. There is a strong public sector as the government tries to combat inefficiency.
The most productive industries are textiles, fertilizers, rubber products and cement. There is some heavy industry and several auto assembly plants.
The country's main trading partners are United. States and some countries European Union (Germany, France, Italy and the UK). Radical changes in the former Soviet bloc, which was the main market of Egypt, have had a major impact on the economy, but after the country became the second country to receive U.S. aid. UU., After Israel between 1994 and 2004 Egypt was about 2000 million USD per year of U.S. aid. UU.12
Egypt had in 1990 serious economic imbalances, both internal and external: industrial structure organized by Nasser publicly owned, oversized, outdated and very low productivity. A tightly controlled agricultural sector by the state intervened and deficit prices. Finally, a foreign sector deficit and based on energy exports, remittances from migrants, Suez Canal revenues and tourism, all had sustained development in the decade of 1970, but was sensitive to the new terrorism Islamic fundamentalists.
Also, the deficit was almost unbearable and generating inflation and the country could hardly cope with the situation arising after the explosion of the debt crisis in the eighties, which so seriously affected almost all developing countries .
In 1991, the government developed a program and proposed several measures:
• Privatize 314 public enterprises.
• Improve agriculture, which generates about 20% of GNP, with an ambitious project: Toshka CanalOpened in January 1997, whose purpose is to make an alternative delta and parallel to the Nile Valley to recover lands of the desert.
• Create industrial, mining and tourism as well as new settlements in Toshka to reduce the population density on the banks of the Nile
Tourism
Tourism is a major source of foreign income of Egypt, both by tourists themselves as major investments by international hotel chains. By the nature of tourism activity generates a significant number of jobs, which include personnel, travel agencies, hotels, manufacturing and marketing of handicrafts, transport, among others. We can identify three main areas where tourist activity is focused:


The sphinx and Khafre pyramid.
• Cairo and its surroundings: the Pyramids of GizaAlong with Great Sphinx (On the outskirts of the city) are the main attractions, complemented with the treasures of Cairo Museum displaying the treasure Tutankhamun, And the Bazaar Khan el-Khalili (Khan el Khalili).
• The southern area, with Luxor, KarnakThe Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel and other archaeological treasures, as well as cruises on the Nile
• Coast Red Sea and south of the Sinai: With sandy shores, a place famous for the richness and variety of underwater flora and fauna, with a diving center of great renown. The Spa Sharm el-Sheikh, Is a landmark in the area, which is served by numerous direct flights from Europe.
As for your typical food there is a range of cold of oriental served in several small bowls. It is true delicatessen, among which are:
tabboulehSalad of parsley and cracked wheat citrus flavor; kobeibaMeat, fish and nuts; baba ghannoush, Mashed eggplant with garlic; kibbehDumplings, fried lamb and cracked wheat; basterma, Cured smoked; sambousek, Vegetable pies; hummus bi tahini, Pureed chickpeas with sesame paste; wara annaba, Grape leaves stuffed with various ingredients; Beting, Pickled eggplant.
Other typical dishes are:
koshari, Layers of macaroni, rice and lentils with tomato sauce; fattahfLayers of dry bread soaked in broth, rice and beef seasoned with garlic and vinegar and topped with yogurt, nuts and raisins; moulouhiyaSoup, spinach hanan, Pigeons stuffed with green wheat grain or rice; shish kebabSkewer of beef and lamb; kuflaRolls of minced lamb grilled; Gambari, Giant prawns with garlic sauce Alexandria mashiRice with meat served with grape leaves, tomatoes, eggplant or green peppers. All these dishes are served with pilauRice with vegetables.
The Egyptians preferred desserts are:
om ali, Bread or pasta mixture with milk, nuts, coconut and raisins that is eaten hot (Ejm. rice pudding); aish is serail, Loaf of bread with honey softened with sugar syrup; baklava, Dumplings stuffed with nuts or mead flavored with an infusion of orange; kumafa, Noodles, baked with sugar, honey and nuts.
The typical Egyptian beverages are:
karkadeComes from the hibiscus flower and can take hot or cold; shai, Strong black tea taste and the variety known as nana shaiServed with mint leaves; Ahwa, Turkish coffee, mango juice, guava, banana, orange, strawberry, carrot, lime, tomato, sugarcane, pomegranate and lemon; tamarhindi, Tea made with dried tamarind pulp; irssousWater, licorice; ERFA, Cinnamon drink that is served hot and covered with nuts; na na, Mint.
Most of the Egyptian population professes Islam and do not drink alcohol, but there is a significant minority Coptic (Christian) maintained the ancient tradition of their development, cultivation and consumption. Among alcoholic drinks are:
ERSO, Strong liquor taste and odor; zahib, Considered the "drink of the gods" as it is made from a hibiscus-like plant with alcohol, which only grew around the Valley of the Kings; yasoon, Flavored with anise. Among the wines are: Chateau Giniclis, Red. A good variety of targets: Rubi d'Egyte, Pink. They are of excellent quality but acceptable.
Meals are accompanied tourists usually with water (which should be mineral and is very important that the open front of you), but can drink the local beer Stella (Or imported beers).
Agriculture
In 2008 this branch of the economy, along with fishing, constituted 13.4% of GDP. Before industrialization, most agricultural products were exported, but that number is significantly reduced after 1998 only 6%. The most important agricultural products are cotton, cereals, fruits and vegetables, fodder. Arable land area is considerably smaller, but very fruitful. It occupies the space around the valley and delta of the Nile. Fishing is an important economic sector. Large quantities of fish are found in the River Nile, Red Sea and the Mediterranean.
Although the early twentieth century Egypt could meet the needs of the population of grains, now 1 / 4 of imports as well as large quantities of meat and dairy products, and exports of fruits, vegetables, sugar and rice.
Industry and Mining
Industrial products (Mining, manufacturing and construction) Comprised 37.6% of GDP 2008 The main products are textiles, chemicals, metals, petroleum products. The new economic policy has led to the creation of private enterprises for the production of cars, Electronics and medicine. Most of these factories are concentrated around the center of the two largest Cairo and Alexandria and the industrial zone along the Suez Canal.
The oil is the most important and a major source of income. The Government in the early 1980 encouraged the production of natural gas to supply domestic energy consumers. The natural gas began to be exported. Major oil and gas fields in the Red Sea and the Libyan desert. Egypt is rich and phosphates, salt, stone and iron ore.
Egypt has enough power to meet the needs of all consumers. The main sources of hydroelectric power are near Aswan. The quantities of oil and natural gas also meet most near consumers.
Transport
Air transport
Egypt has two air carriers for domestic flights: Egyptair and Air Sinai. Distances are short and affordable tickets. Often the cancellation of flights for different reasons.
Currently there are 20 airports, the most important Cairo International Airport, Which made 190,000 flights to over 13 million passengers.
• Egyptair flies daily from Cairo to Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel and Hurghada and twice a week to Kharga Oasis, and makes about 300 flights a week connecting Egypt with the main cities.
• Air Sinai flies from Cairo to Sharm el Sheik El Arish, the Monastery of Santa Catalina and Tel Aviv.
River transport


Felucca sailing the Nile
• International commercial ports:
There are eight ports with international traffic, being the Alexandria principal, together with those of Dammietta, Port Said, Suez and some others in the Red Sea.
• By the waters of Nile River not less than 60 sailing boats. Apart from the cruises and restaurants, there are cruises of five days and four nights (between Luxor and Aswan) and cruises of three days (via Lake Nasser). In June these boats go to dry dock for repair Cairo and Luxor again in September.
• Cruises of three, four and five stars.
• Falucas.
Rail
The rail network is the oldest, with 9826 km of roads linking 75% of cities across the country.
Egyptian trains are comfortable, punctual, fast and cheap. Join Cairo with the Nile Valley, Delta and the cities of the canal. There are four types of service: first, second, third class and Wagon-Lits (sleeper towards Luxor and Aswan). You can book tickets at travel agencies or at the station.
The stations have special windows for each class of ticket.
Taxi
Egyptian taxi drivers are notorious for reckless driving, and the counters are rarely used, so it is necessary to indicate the target, agree on a price, and pay on arrival.
Taxi services normally found in Peugeot stations, and will not start until you have filled all their seats. Travel both within the city and to anywhere in Egypt, including the oasis. Most try to be at Ramses Square, Square Thar and the Cairo airport to pick up tourists.
Urban transportation
Egypt has a bus network that runs throughout the country. They are inexpensive, and modified the system to ensure each passenger's seat.
There are buses in big cities such as Cairo and Alexandria.
Metro
The metro is clean, comfortable and runs through the center of Cairo with stops at intervals of a mile. Subway stations are indicated by a black octagonal sign with a red M. Almost all of the route runs along the Nile, called Corniche.
Car


Sunset Cairo seen from the Cairo Tower, the largest city Africa and Middle East.
In the cities, traffic congestion, especially in Cairo, which is a fundamental problem. On the road there are few limitations, and peace is total, but there are many controls.
The road network consists of 50 300 km, between highways and paved roads. The most important is the belt that connects Cairo Alexandria, Which accounts for 70% of the movement of vehicles. The government plans to build a superhighway that Cairo and Assiut along the east bank of the Nile and roads connecting Cairo with Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian territories.
The road from Cairo to Alexandria, Port Said, Ismailia and Suez, are all four lanes, and most of those crossing the desert linking the main cities the roads are paved except in the direction of Hurghada and Upper Egypt, which remain very dangerous, especially at night. In total, the road network reaches 50 300 km.
Repairs are not expensive and is very easy to find a mechanic. There are car rental agencies in major hotels.
Media
Press
• Al Ahram (Pyramids) is the oldest and most prestigious newspaper in Egypt. Founded in 1875, Published in Arabic.
• El Akhbar (News), Arabic daily
• The Gumhuriya (Republic), Arabic newspaper.
• Le Progres Egyptien (Progress Egyptian), French-language daily
• Journal d'Egypte (Egyptian newspaper), French language daily.
Magazines
• Cairo Today is a monthly magazine in English with articles on history, art, architecture, business and general aspects of Egypt. Supports international subscriptions.
Radio
• Egyptian radio services began in 1934.
• European Radio Station of Cairo is on the FM dial 95 from 7.00.
• In the 89.5 FM broadcast programs of classical music.
Telecommunications
• Communications networks are modern telephone, telegraph, telex and fax services are available. When sending a message to Egypt, telex and fax tend to be more reliable than the telegraph, because the cables are not always delivered. Private courier companies dealing in most Egyptian cities.
• The Egyptian postal service reliability varies: the surface mail is very slow, so the air is often used for international communications. In Egypt, the express mail service provided by the Egyptian National Postal Organization is considered reliable.
• Internet operating normally. It is estimated that 5.57% are connected to the country's inhabitants.
Demography
Main article: Demographics of Egypt


Mosque Mohamed Ali built in the early nineteenth century, the citadel of Cairo
Egypt is the most populous Arab country, with more than 80 million people (estimated February 2008), 15 million of whom reside in Cairo. Another core is significantly overpopulated AlexandriaAlong the Nile delta About 98% of the population is concentrated along the Nile, Whose fertile banks representing 3.5% of the area. The density of the population on both banks of the Nile is one of the highest in the world and its growth is considered one of the serious problems the country.
The Egyptians are a fairly homogeneous people. Mediterranean influences (such as Greeks and Italians) and Arabs appear in the north, and populations Nubians in the south. Have proposed different theories on the origins of the Egyptians, however, no conclusive and widely accepted is that Egyptian society was the result of a mixture of African and East Asian people who moved to the Nile Valley after the Time Ice. Most of the modern Egyptian society is heterogeneous but keeps cultural ties with the ancient Egyptian society, which has always been considered the most populous country and compared to the surrounding demographics. The Egyptian people spoke only five languages Afro-Asiatic family (previously known as hamit-Semitic).
Ethnic groups
The Egyptians are mostly descendants of the ancient Egyptians, the people who settled in northeastern Africa. Nearly 4000 riders entered Egypt Islamic Arabs. Arab immigrants began to mingle with the local population, rising intermarriage between Arab and Indian communities. There are also other peoples descended from invaders like Roman, Greek and Turkish.
Nubian indigenous groups living in northern Sudan and southern Egypt. Many Nubian villages were flooded by the Lake NasserNear Aswan. Many Nubians moved to Aswan and a Cairo. The government does not recognize them as an ethnic minority.
There are other ethnic minorities in Egypt as the Arab Bedouins of the Sinai Peninsula, the Arabian Desert, and the Berber population of the oasis of Gray.
A small number of Greeks, Italians, Jews and other Christian minorities are mixed with the local Muslim population.
Egypt has a population of 500,000 to 3,000,00013 refugees and asylum seekers. There are some 70,000 Palestinian refugees 13 and 150,000 refugees Iraqi.14 The largest number of refugees coming from SudanAnd is estimated between 2 and 5 million.
Group Comments
Egyptian
77 million people. Principal component of the population (98%), who speak the dialect Egyptian Arabic.

Bedouin
1,300,000 inh., Speak badawi (Arab Bedouin).

Gypsy
1,270,000 hab., 2%, who speak Arabic and its dialects helebi Nawar.
Nubian
1,240,000 hab., 2%, which speak Dongola.

Beja
177,000 inhabitants. speaking bisharin.

Berber
5,800 inhabitants., Speak SIWI and are located in Siwa.

Turkish

Language
The official language is ArabicIn Egypt. The Egyptian version of Arabic (Masri) is dominant in the Arab world, thanks to the exceptional importance that Egypt has in the media and education in this language. Egyptian Arabic has adopted elements of the Egyptian language from pre-Islamic times, as well as Turkish, French e English. The Nubians speak the ancient Nubian language. The Berber language is used in several settlements in the western desert oasis. The Coptic Christians used to serve the liturgy. In Egyptian schools teach English and French.
Religion
The official religion in Egypt is the Sunni Islam belonging to 90% of the population. 15 16 17 18 The largest religious minority Coptic Kiji that 9% of the total population. Other religious minorities are the Greek Orthodox and Armenian Catholic and Protestant alike.
In this area lived the Jews, albeit in a small number of great economic importance. It left the country after the 1956a, when the armed forces Israel, France and Great Britain attacked Egypt.
Beginning of the 80 belonged to the soldiers of the Islamic groups and Islamic Jihad. 1992. began a campaign of armed violence, focusing on Cairo and Upper Egypt, Whose aim was to establish a government based on strict Islamic law. Victims of violence Coptic, government officials and tourists. Organization of Human Rights ruled that the Egyptian government made the discrimination against Coptic. The laws relating to the construction of churches and the open practice of religion have declined recently, but the major construction work in the churches still require government permission.
Living standards
There are two main classes. The former are the elite, Western-influenced education, middle and upper class. The second group, which is much more humble, owned by farmers, the urban population and the working class. There are huge differences in lifestyle, habits, food, clothing, etc. In 1970 the government has introduced liberal economic policies known as the "open door." This policy is more demand for the first group, because it connects with the culture and foreign capital.
In the past, lower-class women worked the fields with their husbands, to support his family, while women of higher classes are kept in houses, because her husband kept the family. Today, many women work outside the home, and use Scarves by covering head to remember that they are Muslim.
The most common dishes in the kitchen are Egyptian pancakes, Kusari (Pasta with onions and various herbs), fruits and vegetables. The tea or coffee is the usual food supplement. Rich Egyptians also in its cuisine dishes usually include Europeans, mainly French cuisine.


Al-Azhar University in Cairo.
Education
Rapid population growth has overwhelmed the educational system. The classrooms are full, from primary schools to universities, while schools lack adequate materials to do a good job of education. Many children attend school irregularly or not attend because he has to work. Is estimated at 2005, That 71.4% of the population can write, but divided in 83% of men and 59.4% women.
Statistics

This article or section needs References appear in a reputable publicationSuch as journals, monographs, newspapers or Web sites reliable.
You can add well or warn the senior author on your talk page by pasting: {{Subst: Aviso referencias | Egypt}} ~ ~ ~ ~
• Education spending: 4.7% of GDP.
• Illiteracy: 32.8% men and 56.4% in women.
• Third grade enrollment: 28.5%
• 76.5% of students are enrolled in state schools compared to 23.5% who are studying in private schools.
• Number of universities and higher education institutions: 192 schools.
• Number of schools: 15,861 primary schools, 1,912 schools and 6,202 elementary education preparatory schools.

Health
The 2006 report on health in the world published by the WHOShows the following information:
• Life expectancy at birth male / female: 66.0 / 70.0 years (in 2004)
• Healthy life expectancy at birth male / female: 57.8 / 60.2 years (in 2002)
• Infant mortality male / female: 36/36 per 1000 inhabitants.
• Mortality of adult male / female: 239/158 per 1000 inhabitants.
• Total health expenditure per capita: $ 235 (2003)
• Total health spending: 5.8% of GDP (in 2003)
• Physicians: 38,485 (in 2003) or 5.3 per 10,000 inhabitants.
• Sanitary facilities: Egypt has a total of 109,700 beds between public and private hospitals in cities and first aid rooms in the villages. There are 208 stations and 126 public hospitals in rural areas, all with free care.
In major cities are doctors with a good level, some of them trained abroad and who speak French and English. As regards the treatment in hospitals, it is acceptable for treatment of minor ailments and infections. In severe cases and those requiring surgery, it is best to travel abroad, as the equipment of the hospitals are quite poor. It is common for doctors and hospitals require payment in cash up front if there is no support for an insurance company and medical expenses tend to be for foreigners, very expensive. It is also recommended that health insurance that includes emergency repatriation.
In the tour boats cruising the Nile, there is often no doctor on board, although they usually have a first aid kit where you can find remedies for common minor ailments. In the tourist route of the Nile, Luxor and Aswan only are hospitals with limited guarantees.
There are infectious diseases:

Assignment

Complete this chart remember to include a Picture of each potencial prize as well as the site it is available from and the price

Person Suggestion 1
Francine Science museum science tricks (Toy)

Suggestion 2
Samsung N130 Netbook with 6-Hour Battery--

Suggestion 3
Compaq Presario 15.6" Notebook with HD Graphics--

Person Suggestion 1
Pawel
Fly to Athens £135
Direct flights to this fascinating city
Suggestion 2

Hardware Vans Encore Snow Boots Black Blue
£119.99 Sale!
Suggestion 3
Portable clothes washer





Person Suggestion 1
Pablo Men’s rock shoes



Suggestion 2
Stay Warm--Up to 50% Off Outdoor Clothes

Suggestion 3

Lichfield Dakota Three Man Tent
Buy new: £47.50 £29.99


Write a short report for the committee explaining the three possible choices for each person and making a personal recommendation about which one you feel should be bought include your chart

In my opinion the three possible choices for each person are:
1st for Francine the science museum science tricks that is an interesting toy
2nd the Samsungs n130 netbook because it has 16 % off
3rd the notebook compact Presario that is 23% off
For pawel,
1st fly to Athens because it is a fascinating city
2n by Thinking that the snow boots are appropriate for him
3rd as it is an environmental product, the portable washer clothes is useful
for Pablo
1st for an extreme sport, the men’s rock shoes is one of the important accessories.
2nd by climbing, the outdoor cloth is great to stay warm
3rd by camping, the Lichfield Dakota for three man tent has a cheaper price
I think the portable clothes washer is one of the choices should be bought

miércoles, 17 de noviembre de 2010

Assignment

Technology in the classroom

The technology industry provides the basis for chip production, information and communication systems, and computer systems. These companies serve as the developers and manufacturers of the products which drive the increasing efficiency and production of cell phones, computers, televisions, as well as other communication and information systems. It is a large industry with a vast growth potential, but it is also subject to sometimes volatile cycles, such as in the semiconductor industry. As chips continue to get smaller and globalization increases, demand for faster, more efficient technology in new and old places, will help drive the tech industry.



Semiconductors
There are several different semiconductor industries: Semiconductor - Equipment & Materials, Semiconductor - Broad Line, Semiconductor - Integrated Circuits, and Semiconductor - Foundry.
Chips, or semiconductors, make up the basis of all electronic equipment. Companies like MEMC provide the silicon wafers needed to make up the base of the semiconductor, then companies like Intel and AMD manufacture the semiconductors. Applied Materials and KLA-Tencor build the tools that actually produce and inspect the production of semiconductors.
Semiconductor Demand: The rapid progression in chip production has continually provided new streams of revenue for many tech companies. Advanced electronics such as the iPhone and the next generation game consoles have generated significant demand for companies like Applied Materials (AMAT), which is the largest manufacturer of semiconductor fabrication devices, along with Intel (INTC) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) whom are two of the largest semiconductor manufacturers.
The Sophistication of Chip Design: The difference in size and capacity of modern day chips compared to the recent past is incredible. The rapid progression of chip technology, as a result of Moore's Law, has allowed technology to be used in such unconventional places such as skis and athletic shoes. Advances such as the iPhone exemplify the amount of features that can be practically utilized in such a small device. The continued advancement of chip design will be a major factor in the sales of the semiconductor companies, in particular the semiconductor tool manufacturers such as Applied Materials and KLA-Tencor.

Computer Systems
The computer hardware manufacturing industry includes the production of desktops, laptops, servers, storage, processors and other computer related products. IBM and Sun operate more in the diversified computer systems industry which includes Information Technology (IT). IT is the computer based system of managing information from various sources of a company or institution. IT collects this information and stores or displays it in a practical and effective way so that companies or institutions can fully understand different streams of data.
The Need for Collaboration: Companies such as Microsoft (MSFT), Cisco Systems (CSCO), and EMC (EMC) have stressed the need for collaboration in order to successfully shift to new market trends. Consumers are demanding fast, reliable, and compatible communication and IT systmes between companies and the only way to do that is to, in some capacity, work alongside competitors. The effectiveness of these tech companies working together could greatly determine how well they adapt to the change in market trends and the future of technology.
Growth of China: Many of the tech companies are expanding into China in order to capture this growing market. Dell (DELL) made a deal with Gome Group, China's largest electronics retailer, to sell Dell computers in its stores. Sun Microsystems (JAVA) has seen substantial gain from its positions in China, making it Sun's second largest Asian market. China is a huge market and many of the tech companies are trying to build a presence in this market.

Spaces

http://cid-27b48635e3894c37.spaces.live.com/

My Space

http://elyarguello.spaces.live.com/default.aspx

Asignment

Using chat language teaching
Do you agree or disagree with the following statements? Why?
1 with text chat, we need to teach learners to use text speak, e.g. l8er for later.
It may be useful to teach your learners certain common abbreviations used in text chat like CU for see you or btw for by the way, but you need to consider whether your learners really need to use text chat as native speakers do, or whether they will be using chat to contact other non native speakers. Even if they do use chat to contact native speakers, do they need to sound like native speakers? Using Standard English in text chat is preferable, but this is also an issue worth discussing with your learners to see what they think.
2 Voiced chat is easier to use than text chat.
In terms of technical requirements, text chat may be easier to use than voice chat, as text chat requires less bandwidth, no sound card, microphone, speakers or headset. Text chat can be slow and weaker typists are put at a disadvantage. Also, in the single computer classroom, larger groups can take part in voice chat more easily than in text chat so which one is easier to use with learners depends very much on your teaching context.
3 the teacher requires a lot of technical knowledge to use text or voice chat with learners.
Chat software is generally very easy to install and use. Although more complex chat software like elluminate might require some initial training, less complex programs, like instant messaging, are very user-friendly and require no technical knowledge to install and use indeed, many of our learners are already using tools like instant messaging in their personal lives.
4 it’s a good idea to teach learners some chat conventions, e.g. how to take turns.
The need of either text or voice chat conventions will depend on the size of the group in the chat. Usually if a chat is held between only two participants conventions are unnecessary, but for larger groups conventions are a good idea, especially for text chat.
5 Using chat is best between classes who already meet regularly face to face.
Conducting initial chat practice sessions with a class who already know each other is a good idea, but our feeling is that chat should then be used in a real situation, with learners using chat to contact learners who are not in the same place. For the use of chat to be meaningful for learners, and not just a gimmick in class, we would suggest that chat is used outside class between class members or between two classes who are in geographically separate places.

domingo, 14 de noviembre de 2010

Bienvenida

Guinness World Records

The writer is Sir Hugh Beaver, he asked a simple question: what was Europe’s fastest game bird? Despite a heated argument and an exhaustive search within the host’s reference library he could not find the answer.
Sir Hugh realized that similar questions were going unanswered all around the world, and that a definitive book containing superlative facts and answers would be of great use to the general public. With the help of the London-based fact-finding twins Norris and Ross McWhirter, he soon set about bringing this definitive collection of superlative facts to reality. On 27 August 1955, the first edition of “The Guinness Book of Records” was bound and, by Christmas that year, became Britain’s number one bestseller.
Over the intervening years, copies of The Guinness Book of Records – later renamed Guinness World Records – have continued to fly off bookshop shelves. During this time, it has become clear that, to our readers, a world record is more than a simple fact: it’s a means of understanding your position in the world… a yardstick for measuring how you and those around you fit in. Knowing the extremes – the biggest, the smallest, the fastest, the most and the least – offers a way of comprehending and digesting an increasingly complex world overloaded with information.
The page is always constantly updated, and it contains factual information about:
• Most consecutive haircuts by a team in 24 hours
• Largest game of dodgeball
• Longest marathon hosting a radio talk show (team)
• Largest cassata siciliana
• Most people apple bobbing and most apples bobbed in 3 minutes by a team of 6
• Largest ceramic mosaic to be unveiled
• Largest macaroni and cheese
• Largest king cake
• Longest stand up comedy show by an individual
• Most entries in a two person pantomime animal race
• 646 Students and NFL Star Set Fitness World Record
• Largest cooked ham
• Largest virtual aerobics/exercise class
• Largest parade of Mazda cars
• Bungee Jump Guinness World Record Attempt
• Oldest Living Man Turns 114
• Will Ferrell and DreamWorks Rally for Superhero World Record
• Largest T-shirt
From my point of view it is very interesting. I think that the content of the world records can be atractive for the learners, because they can take advantage of this to investigate and write paragraphs, essays to improve the way they write and to become good at writing.
The oficial page is interesting but not amazing, because it should contain a lot of colorful pictures and beautiful titles.
The site works very well, because a lot of people enter the site every day. About the sound and videos they are very funny and interesting, and my favourite video is The biggest hamburger that I have ever seen, and I would like to eat it.