Drug Essay Example for Free

Drug Essay This paper will illustrate several aspects of how drugs affect our lives. Addiction philosophies including the psychology and physiology will be explained in an attempt to describe how drugs affect our bodies both physically and mentally. Secondly, different drug categories types will be covered including: stimulants, depressants, narcotics, hallucinogens, and cannabis. Each of these categories has different addiction potentials and effect levels including withdrawal symptoms. Finally, the abuse of prescription drugs and their effects will be discussed. Addiction is primarily psychological although addiction can be defined as the physiological changes in the body. Addiction continues to be considered as a social, cultural, genetic and experiential process as well. According to Lande, addictive behavior is seen as any behavior that gives temporary or short term pleasure and also provides relief from discomfort although there may be long term adverse effects. (Lande, 2012) According to Roy, addiction is generally described as dependence on any drug and results from substance abuse. Any drug or alcohol can produce addiction as can other things such as the internet, gaming, gadgets, chocolates etc. However the physical and psychological effects of drugs and alcohol are detrimental and actually result in loss of productivity, withdrawal and physical dependence and lack of attention and such other conditions. The primary feature of addiction is dependence as an individual shows increased psychological and physiological dependence on the substance he is addicted to and without the addictive substance the person is unable to return to normal life. Roy, 2009) Dependence on anything may not be too bad and some amount of social dependence is expected of us as social beings. However, when there is excessive dependence with inability to live without the substance in question, then withdrawal symptoms result and there are physiological changes in the body including pain and in some cases medical attention is required. Addiction is an extreme dependence that causes people t o lose sense of reality as people become crippled without the substance they are addicted to. Addiction leads to crime and anti-social behavior as addicts can resort to violent behavior, to stealing, to murder simply to attain their goal. Addiction to a substance could be separated from healthy use of the substance such as some amount of alcohol is considered acceptable and healthy in a social setting but being completely dependent on alcohol to that which amounts to addiction can have adverse social and personal implications for the individual. (Roy, 2009) Some of the common addictive drugs and substances are opium, alcohol, nicotine and barbiturates. Giving up any addiction, requires strength and this is largely the strength of the mind that aids in stopping any addictive behavior. According to Lande, if addiction is a disease, the cure of addiction or even its prevention is largely a psychological process suggesting that the mind is responsible for the addiction, the beginning of it and also the end of it. (Lande, 2012) These addictions affect the body in many different ways based on what type of drug the person has taken. According to a Medscape reference, stimulants are substances that induce a number of characteristic symptoms. CNS effects include alertness with increased vigilance, a sense of well-being, and euphoria. Many users experience insomnia and anorexia, and some may develop psychotic symptoms. Stimulants have peripheral cardiovascular activity, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. They encompass a broad category of substances, including those prescribed for medical conditions; those manufactured for illicit substance abuse; and those found in over-the-counter (OTC) decongestants, herbal extracts, caffeinated beverages, and cigarettes. Preda, 2011) Narcotics are another substance that is heavily abused in the workplace. Like many drugs persons taking narcotics can develop a tolerance as well as psychological and physical dependence. With this dependence, users must increase the dosage to gain the same effect. Some signs of narcotic abuse are analgesia, sedation, shallow breathing, slurred speech, and or/confusion. Withdrawal symptoms are usually severe and can be seen as early as 12-1 4 hours after the last dose. Symptoms of Narcotics withdrawal are irritability, craving, runny nose, muscle aches, and anxiety. Along with the previously mentioned symptoms are many complications such as infections, pneumonia, seizures, and constipation. (Zwanger, 2010) According to Doctor Parish, hallucinogens are a diverse group of drugs that cause an alteration in perception, thought, or mood. A rather heterogeneous group, these compounds have different chemical structures, different mechanisms of action, and different adverse effects. Despite their name, most hallucinogens do not consistently cause hallucinations, which are defined as false sensations that have no basis in reality. Often, they are more likely to cause changes in mood or in thought than actual hallucinations. (Parish, 2011) Hallucinogens have very specific symptoms that pose a particular physical risk. These include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, tremors, seizures, and even coma. In regards to withdrawal from the use of hallucinogens, these drugs do not seem to be physically addictive but may pose a psychological threat to users because they feel emotionally dependent on them. (eGetGoing. com, 2010) Approximately 2. Million Americans abused prescription drugs for the first time this year according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Most of these users were females between the ages of 12 and 17. The majority of abused prescription drugs were opioids which are also known as pain relievers. These drugs can be found in over-the-counter form or prescription. Most users begin with the over-the-counter variants but with continued use the user seeks stronger forms to curve their pain r elief needs. Using these drugs at a level that is above the prescribed amount can lead to liver failure, coma, and even death. Throughout this paper were references that illustrated the potential negative effects of drugs such as hallucinogens, stimulants, narcotics, and prescription drugs. The use or abuse of these drugs has significant effects both psychologically and physically. Withdrawals from these substances can be severe and potentially life threatening and should be monitored by medical personnel. Millions of Americans suffer from chemical dependency and threatens or livelihood as being a traditionally wholesome nation.

Teachers Assessment of Writing in English Essay -- narrative, philosop

The most difficult aspect of being an English teacher, for me, is assessing my students’ writing. I can remember, so clearly, the day my cooperating teacher handed me a student’s writing and said, â€Å"Read this and give it a grade.† After reading it, I felt an overwhelming and uncomfortable power shadow over me. I didn’t know the rules of assessment. What was I supposed to be looking for anyway? I was able to realize immediately that there is a definite difference between knowing how to write an essay and knowing how to assess one. When I was asked what I finally came up with as a grade, I told her the student earned a â€Å"B.† She agreed and I remember thinking to myself that maybe my task wasn’t as difficult as I had thought moments before. Then, just when I thought the hard part was over, she asked me why I gave it a â€Å"B.† After giving her my reasons, she stated she was in agreement with me. At this point, I asked her what grade she had given it. She replied, â€Å"B-.† Now I was completely baffled. How could she agree with everything that I said and then give it a different grade? Whether or not teachers like to admit it, assessing writing is, in fact, a fragile issue as well as a partly subjective one. For instance, while my cooperating teacher agreed with my insight, she also thought that particular student should have applied more effort to the essay. After teaching this student for eight months already, she was aware of his capabilities as a writer and expected more. Her reasoning was one that I would never have been able to develop since I was not as familiar with the student. Can the assessment of writing be accomplished in a fair manner? There is no doubt that readers are subjective viewers. It is an issue that we are unabl... ...rection. In this way, the students will earn higher grades and become better writers in the process. This direction through assessment will help lead students to success. The use of assessment in writing remains a delicate topic for many teachers. However, with our help, it can grow to be a positive force in our students’ lives. Berlin once said, â€Å"To teach writing is to teach a version of reality.† The importance of communication and success in our world is, indeed, a reality. Isn’t the assessment of writing, after all, a version of reality as well? Aren’t we supposed to be preparing our students for their futures? Although assessing writing is not a simple task, it should not be viewed as unfair or unnecessary. Instead, we must consider it unfair and unjust to hide this reality from the students who will continually encounter it once they exit our classroom doors. Teacher's Assessment of Writing in English Essay -- narrative, philosop The most difficult aspect of being an English teacher, for me, is assessing my students’ writing. I can remember, so clearly, the day my cooperating teacher handed me a student’s writing and said, â€Å"Read this and give it a grade.† After reading it, I felt an overwhelming and uncomfortable power shadow over me. I didn’t know the rules of assessment. What was I supposed to be looking for anyway? I was able to realize immediately that there is a definite difference between knowing how to write an essay and knowing how to assess one. When I was asked what I finally came up with as a grade, I told her the student earned a â€Å"B.† She agreed and I remember thinking to myself that maybe my task wasn’t as difficult as I had thought moments before. Then, just when I thought the hard part was over, she asked me why I gave it a â€Å"B.† After giving her my reasons, she stated she was in agreement with me. At this point, I asked her what grade she had given it. She replied, â€Å"B-.† Now I was completely baffled. How could she agree with everything that I said and then give it a different grade? Whether or not teachers like to admit it, assessing writing is, in fact, a fragile issue as well as a partly subjective one. For instance, while my cooperating teacher agreed with my insight, she also thought that particular student should have applied more effort to the essay. After teaching this student for eight months already, she was aware of his capabilities as a writer and expected more. Her reasoning was one that I would never have been able to develop since I was not as familiar with the student. Can the assessment of writing be accomplished in a fair manner? There is no doubt that readers are subjective viewers. It is an issue that we are unabl... ...rection. In this way, the students will earn higher grades and become better writers in the process. This direction through assessment will help lead students to success. The use of assessment in writing remains a delicate topic for many teachers. However, with our help, it can grow to be a positive force in our students’ lives. Berlin once said, â€Å"To teach writing is to teach a version of reality.† The importance of communication and success in our world is, indeed, a reality. Isn’t the assessment of writing, after all, a version of reality as well? Aren’t we supposed to be preparing our students for their futures? Although assessing writing is not a simple task, it should not be viewed as unfair or unnecessary. Instead, we must consider it unfair and unjust to hide this reality from the students who will continually encounter it once they exit our classroom doors.

Article About Love Essay

Country, Location, & Flag : The name of my country that I am researching is Poland. Poland is located in the heart of Europe, on the North European Plain. It is bordered by the Baltic sea to the North and Northwest. By Germany to the West, by Ukraine, Belarus. Russia and Lithuania to the east and northeast and by Slovakia and the Czech Republic to the south. In general, Poland mountainous in the south with the terrain becoming increasingly flatter toward the north. The flag is just two colors. White on top and red on the bottom. Climate: The climate in Poland is determined mainly by the country’s geographical location. Poland is in the temperate latitudes. The average annual temperature in Poland is about 8’C/46’F and varies for the regions of Poland depending on height above sea level and distance from the Baltic Sea. In the summer, for instance, temperatures are lower in northern Poland because of the Baltic Sea. The lowest temperatures are in the mountains and the highest are in the western and central Poland. Poland sees an average annual rainfall of 600 millimeters. The highest precipitation is in the mountains and uplands and the lowest occurs in the central, lowland areas of Poland. On the average, precipitation in summer is twice that in the winter. In the summer months of June, July and August, showers alternate with dry, sunny weather and the temperature averages about 18’C/64’F; the maximum summer temperature is 40’C/104’F. Early autumn is generally sunny and warm before a period of rainy, colder weather in November begins the transition into winter. Winter, which may last one to three months, is cold and cloudy and brings frequent snowstorms but relatively low total precipitation. The average temperature in January is about -4’C/25’F but it can fall as low as -35’C/-31’F.pring arrives slowly in April, bringing mainly sunny days. Read more:Â  Essay About Love Economic & Political System : Poland has a free market economy. As for the politician system, Poland is a country with a republican political system in which power is concentrated in the citizen’s hands. Poland is a parliamentary democracy which means that all citizens can participate in ruling the state and have a constitutionally guaranteed influence on it’s fate. They also enjoy equal rights. Major Trading Partners : Major trading partners would have to be, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, & Czech Republic. Unique Characteristic and Natural Recourses: Well Poland has beautiful mountains, and one really unique thing I like is that the weddings last about three days. Natural resources of Poland are coal, sulfur, copper, natural gas, silver, salt, etc. Custom & Cultural Info: When greeting someone a good handshake, direct eye contact, a smile and the appropriate greeting for that time of day will suffice. Do not use first names until invited to. Moving from the use of formal to the informal names is such an important step. When it comes to eating most meals are served family-style, and always try a bit of everything. Alcohol is also usually poured in a small glass. Quality Of life Compare To U.S : I don’t really see a big difference. In both countries people work, go to school, and do the usual. Currency & Language & Exchange Rate v USD: The currency is zloty and the exchange rate is 0.31 US dollar. National Foods & How To Say Hello: Most popular dish in Poland would have to be pierogi which is my all time favorite! Bigos, kielbasa, golabki are also very popular and yummy as well! Anyways to say hello in polish you simply say, czesc! Educational Opportunities ,Current unemployment Rate ,Life Expectancy & GDP: Education is a little different then here in the US. You start off with kindergarten and it goes all the way up to 8th grade and you stay with your class all 8 years, so you never have new kids in your classes. Then from 8th grade you go to a different school to start high school which is 4 years and once you have your class in 9th you stay with them till 12th. It’s a bit confusing but still pretty simple. As for unemployment rate, the currency is 14%! Life expectancy is 76.25 years and the GDP is 514.5 billion USD. Major Sports & Famous People/ Inventions: They play different sports like basketball and volleyball but of course the major one is SOCCER! My favorite(: As for inventions the bulletproof vest was in fact created by a Polish inventor called Jan Szczepanik in 1901. The vest was made of multiple layers of silk that were specifically woven so that they could stop bullets. The invention turned out be quite successful and the cloth used in the vest passed the practical test when it prevented the assassination of the Spanish king Alfonso XIII. Family Life: They usually just live like we would in the US. Once you are married you go off with your husband and if you have kids then you just stay in a home with them obviously! Not really anything different or unusual! Foreign Trade/ Exports & Imports : I’m not sure if Poland has more exports or imports because It kind of balances out. Most of Poland’s imports are capital goods needed for industrial retooling and manufacturing inputs like machinery. Poland exports fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

The Fine Line between Research Plagiarism

Students, academia, researchers and other people who wish to take up scholarly pursuits, long have they tried to answer the eternal question: ‘When is the written word considered plagiarized and at what point does it not?’ They point to the quote which says that stealing from ‘one source is plagiarism and stealing from many is considered research.’ Is reproducing a quote word to word considered plagiarism in itself? Is highlighting your favorite passages from some other author’s works makes you liable to be sued? The answer to all these questions is not simple. And even with the laws in place, plagiarism remains a murky term to define and codify into legislation. It’s a question that has answers and yet refuses to die down. That being said, there are certain rules and guidelines every researcher and scholar should be aware of when it comes to ‘copying’ and quoting sources in publications. Ethical and acceptable ways do exist. To separate the wheat from the chaff (or to know when it’s research and when it’s outright plagiarism), there are some simple criteria one can employ to establish which is which. Research If one is writing a thesis or undertaking any research, it is acceptable. In fact, it is required to come up with quotes. There are certain things to consider, such as: 1. The Target Audience or Market You’re Writing For In academic, scientific, technical and professional journals, your audience expects you to quote the work of others so that you are in a better position to support your findings and arguments. It is pretty much the cornerstone of your researching efforts. As the author of your research, you need to be able to show you know what you are talking about and how much extensively you have researched on your topic. All your theories, ideas and statements need to be reinforced by the work of experts in the field. As for the works and authors you quote, they welcome this. This way, their work gets highlighted and gets known to more people. Academia expects this and peers review your papers. The absence of quotes makes your research essentially poor. However, the situation is rather different if your audience comes from a consumer publication, such as a culture magazine. The audience as well as the magazine doesn’t need a flurry of footnotes to accompany your piece of writing. 2. When Background Research Information Is Required When one tends to write for a large audience, the readers expect the author has done some kind of background research on the subject in order to lend it an air of authenticity. Even editors will ask you about your background research. Making things up is an absolute no-no. Even consumer publications expect writers to exercise some due diligence on this matter. It pays to tap into the reservoir of published sources of information for this purpose. Let’s take an example. You are writing about the Mars Rover trip for the general audience. This subject might require you to quote a few technical facts for the interest of the audience. Say, for instance, you might want to tell your readers about the payload on the Rover. For this essential basic research, you will find it easier to quote people or facts and figures here. 3. Does Your Material Need References? You can use direct quotes in an academic journal or even paraphrase them. You will need to create footnotes and complete references for other researchers in an academic paper. In a consumer publication, even though quotes can be used, there’s no need for accompanying footnotes. After all, the content isn’t geared towards academia but to a general audience. The type of publication you are writing for also determines whether references and footnotes are required. So, whenever you are writing, regardless of the type of publication it is, you have to tread the fine line between research and plagiarism with caution.