Interjections

According to Merriam Webster, an interjection can be defined as an ejaculatory utterance usually lacking grammatical connection. Interjections are words that are put in a sentence to convey an emotional state. For this reason, they are usually followed by an exclamation mark. It is uncommon to see an interjection in formal writing, unless it is in a direct quotation. Interjections are often found at the beginning of a sentence, however, there is no rule that says they have to be. They can also be used to signal that something should be obvious or to express excitement, surprise, or dismay.

The word “Duh!” is an interjection used to suggest that something should be obvious.

“Duh! You have to take it out of the package before you can use it.”

When expressing excitement or surprise, the following interjections can be used as demonstrated.

“Hey! How are you?”
“Oh! That is not good.”
“Oops! Didn’t mean for that to happen.”
“Yay! That is the best news I have heard all day.”

Interjections can also demonstrate surprise in the form of a question.

“What? Are you serious?”
“Huh? Is that what she said?”

In other cases, interjections are set off with a comma.

“Well, there is extra sugar in the cabinet.”
“Now, let’s see how we can fix this problem.”
“Here, let me get the door for you.”

In addition, interjections can occur in the middle of a sentence

“It’s so easy that anyone can use it–well, almost anyone.”

Used in informal writing, interjections can add spice to the message that you are trying to convey. However, their expressions can be very powerful, so try not to over use them. Too many can make your writing appear immature and too casual.

 

Common Proverbs

A Proverb can be described as a short statement or an expression that illustrates a basic truth or moral lesson. They have been iterated and reiterated for centuries, deriving from prophets, philosophers, presidents, and anyone else who has desired to share a practical precept. Proverbs come from all parts of the world as a part of every spoken language.

Common American English Proverbs:

Absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Actions speak louder than words.
Bad news travels fast.
Birds of a feather flock together
Curiosity killed the cat.
Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth
Leave well enough alone.
Old habits die hard.
The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
Two heads are better than one.
Variety is the spice of life.
When there’s smoke, there’s fire.
You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.
You reap what you sew.

Common Proverbs of Other Origin:

A book is like a garden carried in the pocket. – Arab
A bad cause requires many words. – German
A drowning man is not troubled by rain. – Persian
A drink precedes a story. – Irish
A penny saved is a penny gained. -Scottish
A rumor goes in one ear and out many mouths. – Chinese
Better to light a candle than to curse the darkness. – Chinese
Deal with faults of others as gently as would your own. – Chinese
A lie travels around the world, while truth is putting her boots on. – French

Familiarity with common proverbs is an important part of understanding the English language. They are used in conversation, story telling, media, and more. Along with being able to recognize when a proverb is being used, you should be able to interpret their meaning to understand the relevance of the message being portrayed.

 

Free and Reduced School Lunch

Balanced nutrition is particularly important to school aged children who are actively developing their bodies and minds. The thought of a child going without food is disheartening. However, millions of families in the United States struggle to pay for school lunches. The National School Lunch Program provides per meal cash reimbursements to schools as an entitlement to provide nutrition meals to children. Eligibility for this benefit is determined by the household income of the student who is in need of assistance. Students may qualify for free meals of reduced lunch at a maximum price of 40 cents per meal.

Both public and non-profit schools can participate in the National School Lunch program. Children at participating schools can qualify by completing an application. If the household falls below 130% of the federal poverty level, they qualify for a free lunch program. If they are between 130% and 185%, they are eligible for a reduced lunch program. Also, households who receive food stamps, TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) or participate in the food distribution program on an Indian reservations are also eligible for free meals. Categorically eligible children do not need to complete an application and should automatically be provided with free lunches. This includes children who are homeless, migrant, or run aways.

The National School Lunch Program operated in over 94,000 schools across the United States. More than 29 million children benefit from this government funded program. A social security number is not required to receive assistance, allowing benefits for children whose families are not U.S. Citizens. There is no discrimination, so all children can be provided with 1/3 of their daily nutritional needs. In addition, the federal government operates a school breakfast program that supplies funding to the states to provide eligible children with a nutritional and balanced breakfast.

 

Similes

According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, a simile can be defined as a figure of speech comparing two unlike things that often introduced by the words like or as. 

Examples:

 As blind as a bat
 As brave as a lion
 As bright as the sun
 As big as a bus
 As bald as a badger
 As busy as a beaver
 As clear as crystal
 As cute as a bug

 He ran like greased lightning.
 He smokes like a chimney.
 They fight like cats and dogs.
 He eats like  pig.
 She drinks like a fish.
 She sings like an angel.
 He sleeps like a log.
 
Similes have been widely used in speech and writing because of their expressiveness.  They are a figure of speech that describes a person or thing by comparing it to another person or thing.  Often similes are stereotypes that pervade a given language or culture. 

Examples of similes that are stereotypes:

 As precise as a surgeon
 As regular as a clock
 As quiet as a mouse
 As strong as an ox
 As bumpy as a gravel road
 As cunning as a fox

Other similes portray irony and play against expectations.  This incongruity is often used to create a humorous effect, but the audience must understand the concepts involved to appreciate the irony. 

Examples of ironic similes:

 As cuddly as a cactus
 As charming as a eel
 As pretty as a car crash
 As bulletproof as a sponge cake
 As smooth as sandpaper

A popular mnemonic for understanding similes is that “a simile is similar or alike.”

 

College vs Military

Upon graduating high school, there are some major decision to be made regarding one’s future.  Both college and the military provide people with an education that is geared towards future career goals.  However, there are several differences between these two options. 

In a four year college, the education that one receives is usually fairly general.  It does not necessarily focus on job training, but provides students with a more general understanding of various topics.  College places a stronger focus on academic education and personal development, while the military provides more of a job training experience.  Many of the jobs that the military trains for include skills that can be transferred for use in civilian life. 

Financially, going to college or joining the military greatly differ.  College is expensive, even if you can get financial aid.  Books and tuition cost thousands each year.  Plus, it can take one many years to acquire the degree that they desire.  On the other hand, the military provides specialized training in exchange for a contracted period of service and usually pays a salary to the student at the same time.  However, one can join the military reserve unit, acting in the military only when called upon.  This entitles them to use of the GI bill that will allow them to gain a college education at the government’s expense. 

Both a formal college and the military can provide specialized training for advanced careers such as those of a dentist, surgeon, pilot, or even a musician.  The military often offers a faster track for some of these careers, with more hands on experience.  On the other hand, going to college may take longer, but focuses on obtaining a broader range of knowledge with master degree and graduate degree programs.

The main difference between college and the military is the obligations that they hold their students to.  College is strictly a financial obligation, while the military requires a term of service to the country.  When one enlists in the military, it is expected that they complete a strenuous boot camp, maintain good physical health, and comply to other military orders.  Many military personnel are called to field duty where they will risk their lives to protect our country.   Most people who enlist in the military do so for patriotic reasons in addition to their desires to succeed in a career. 

Both college and the military are effective ways of gaining an education and obtaining a career.  Choosing between the two options should be based on an individual’s needs and beliefs.

 

Compulsory Education

Compulsory education is the type of schooling that children are required to receive by state law. An example of compulsory education is public education, however, homeschooling may be a legal alternative in some places. There are both advantages and disadvantages to this type of educational requirement. However, it sparks controversy as it provides for the intellectual development of our children under the government’s  terms, instead of allowing the public to choose.

There are many benefits that come from compulsory education. It has increased the knowledge of basic subjects, including mathematics. Plus, it has greatly reduced illiteracy. Compulsory education works to increase economic development, while discouraging child labor. Access to better professions with better pay become available as a direct result. Overall, students who participate in compulsory or “required” education perform better in life and receive higher wages.

On the other hand, critics of compulsory education believe that it conflicts with an individual’s freedom. Forcing children to go to school against their consent might be perceived as unethical. It prevents children from pursuing their own interest, as it takes up a large amount of time in their lives. Ivan Illich, a strong advocate against compulsory education believes that the school establishments should not exist and that they confuse things. He believes that schools confuse teaching with learning, grades with education, diplomas with competence, attendance with attainment, and especially, process with substance. Others who are against compulsory education believe that schools are okay, but many aspects of the way that they operate should be rethought.

Overall, the American society is supportive of compulsory education. Most people agree that the benefits out weigh the problems that it might create and appreciate the fact that the government provides the public education system. Compulsory education will more than likely continue to be a huge part of our children’s development.

 

College vs. High School

Many young adults who are entering their freshman year of college may be apprehensive, wondering what to expect.  Whereas high school is required and often free, college is elective and usually expensive.  College is also more difficult than high school and requires a higher level of commitment for success.  There is also a certain level of maturity that is needed to do well in college because one will find that it is much different than going to high school. 

First of all, no one should fear going to college.  It is a noble decision on anyones part and shows motivation and ambition.  Also, college is better than high school because it allow you to grow rapidly into adulthood as there is no more babysitting done by teachers and parents.  No one holds you accountable for being in class or turning in assignments.  It is entirely up to you to be responsible for yourself and succeed.  College is often where you find out what kind of person you will be. 

In college, unlike in high school, you will attend classes with people of all ages.  Both young adults and older adult strive to increase their knowledge and attain personal goals and career advancements.  Also, there is usually a significantly larger number of students in your college classes.  This means that you will get less individualized attention and often have to schedule time with instructors or communicate by email to get their attention.  Once again, you will find that you generally have to take responsibility for yourself. 

Another big difference between high school and college is the size of the campus.  In high school, usually all of your classes are in the same building.  On the other hand, in college, classes are often spread throughout a large campus.  Each campus consists of various buildings that specialize in teaching different subjects.  Often, a student can expect more exercise with a long walk or bike ride between buildings.  It is important to take that into consideration when scheduling classes. 

Finally, in college, there is more work than in high school.   It is estimated that for every hour you spend in a college class, you must spend two hours studying or doing assignments.  College requires a lot more discipline than high school.  There is more reading, writing, and curriculum.  A lot of what you learn in college is what you teach yourself from reading books and studying independently.  Whereas in high school, you are practically spoon fed the majority of information that you need to know.  College is an advancement from high school for those who are willing to work hard and continue learning.

 

Principal vs principle

This post is a grammar lesson to help clarify understanding of principal vs. principle.

It was the first day of the new school year and all the students were gathered together for an assembly. As the school authority stood in the front of the auditorium, trying to connect with his students, he said,
“Now remember kids, the last three letters in the word principal spell P-A-L.” Although it was cheesy, it was his way of informing the students that he was a friendly guy. From that day on, I never misspelled the word principal, because his speech was burned into my memory.

Principal and principle are two of the most commonly confused words in the English language. Many people skipped through the grade school system without learning how to use them correctly. You will find these words used erroneously on everything from newspapers to court documents. Given the fact that a word can have multiple meanings, it is not difficult to understand where this confusion is coming from. However, one should make an effort to learn and teach correct English. Therefor, the following is a tutorial, explaining the differences between the words “principal” and “principle.”

Principal

Principal can be used as both a noun and an adjective.

As a noun, it commonly means “administrator” or “sum of money.”
As an adjective, it means “most important.”

Examples:

- Billy got in trouble at school and had to see the principal. (as a noun)
- To get out of debt, you must pay down the principal of your loan. (as a noun)
- He finally addressed my principal concern. (as an adjective)

Principle

Principle can only be used as a noun.

The noun principle means a “rule” or “basic truth”

Examples:

- Susan practices the principles of her religion.
- John is a man of strong principles.
- There are basic principles that we follow when teaching children.

A good way to remember this is by recognizing that both “rule” and “principle” end with the letters “le.”

 

Fractions

We need fractions so we can figure out how many pieces are in a whole. The word fraction actually comes from the Latin word “fractio”which means to break. Whole numbers can be broken down into fractions that represent a part of a whole number. Fractions are used in everyday life to measure ingredients, divide the hour when we tell time, interpret gas prices, and understand the value of money. We begin to learn how to use fractions from a young age and advance on those skills throughout grade school. However, some children find it difficult to understand fractions, so a firm foundation of learning the basics is highly important.

A fraction is the ratio of two whole numbers. It is one whole number divided by another whole number. The top part of a fraction is called the numerator and the bottom is called the denominator. In the fraction ½, the numerator is 1 and the denominator is 2. Normally the numerator is smaller than the denominator. This is called a proper fraction. When the numerator is larger than the denominator, it is called an improper fraction. Example:7/2.

Children usually begin to learn fractions in about the second or third grade. A good visual lesson on understanding fractions is to take a whole pie and cut it into pieces. Children also learn fractions by equating them with money. There are 4 quarters in a dollar, so one quarter is ¼ of a dollar. By the fourth grade, students learn to compare fractions with common denominators. They should be able to shade a portion of a circle to represent a fraction. In the 5th grade, student learn to add fractions and understand uncommon denominators and equivalent fractions. It is important to understand the concept of fractions from a young age, because as education progresses, fractions are used to teach more and more complex math skills.

 

Homeschool Health and Nutrition

Teaching health and nutrition is a particularly important part of homeschool curriculum. There are general national guidelines that direct the way that health and nutrition should be taught in the home. In addition, most states also require that a certain curriculum is explained to children. State requirements can be found by contacting your state department of education. This should be your first step in teaching health and nutrition curriculum in your home. Teaching proper health and nutrition to your children is essential for optimal condition and strength of body and mind. The ideas and habits that children create in their youth will often continue into their adulthood, determining their future ideas and habits as adults. With the rising concerns of obesity, eating disorders, substance abuse, and their related health deficits, a strong education in health and nutrition acts as a defense against what could become life altering mistakes.

The national guidelines for teaching health and nutrition have been developed by the Center for Disease Control and the American Cancer Society. They were designed to help children to discern between healthy and unhealthy practices, to teach them the importance of being healthy, and to encourage them to set goals and make appropriate health enhancing decisions. There are eight standards that are listed as follows:

1. Students will comprehend concepts related to health promotion and disease prevention to promote health.
2. Students will analyze the influence of family, peers, culture, media, technology, and other factors on health behavior.
3. Students will demonstrate the ability to access valid informations, products, and services to enhance health.
4. Students will demonstrate the ability to use interpersonal communication skills to enhance health and avoid or reduce health risks.
5. Students will demonstrate the ability to use decision making skills to enhance health.
6. Students will demonstrate the ability to use goal-setting skills to enhance health.
7. Students will demonstrate the ability to practice health enhancing behaviors and avoid or reduce health risks.
8. Students will demonstrate the ability to advocate for personal, family, and community health.

In addition to meeting the homeschool curriculum requirements for the nation and the state, there are more ways to teach your children to have good standards for health and nutrition. Most importantly, set a good example in the home by having nutritious meals at regular intervals. It may be a good idea to include your children when planning or preparing food. Also, Children who come from families who do not use tobacco or drink in excess are less likely to develop those problems as adults. Talk to your kids early about these important health topics and encourage good sleeping habits and exercise. A proper education on health and nutrition can influence your child for a better life.