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July 22, 2025
July 22, 2025

Employee Benefits Evaluation

Employee Benefits: Continued

You have been asked to give a 10-minute presentation to a college’s undergraduate HRM class. You have decided to use the following case scenario to spearhead the discussion.

.

An Attractive Benefits Package?

Susan greeted Beutan, her next interview applicant. Beutan had an excellent academic record and appeared to be just the kind of person Susan’s company, Jones Investments, was seeking in an investments technician. Susan is the staffing specialist for Jones and had already interviewed two individuals for the position.

Employee Benefits Evaluation

Based on the application form, Beutan appeared to be the most promising candidate to be interviewed that day. From his past experience it looked as if he could be in his mid-forties. His address showed that he lived 45 miles away from the Jones facility. The application stated that Beutan achieved a 3.7 GPA in his master’s courses, with a 4.0 in his major field of finance. He achieved his degree a year ago by working during the day and attending classes at night. Beutan was not only treasurer of his district’s financial planning association but also served as volunteer on the high school’s financial advising committee. The recommendation letters in Beutan’s file revealed that he was both active socially and a rather intense and serious student. One of the letters from Beutan’s full-time employer of four years boasted a notable work ethic.

Beutan was laid off due to a cutback in business and was looking again for full-time work.

Susan knew that discussion of benefits could be an important part of the recruiting interview. But she did not know which aspects of Jones’ benefits program would appeal most to Beutan. The company has an excellent profit-sharing plan, although 80% of profits distributions are deferred and included in each employee’s retirement account. Health benefits are also good. It also has long-term care insurance but no short-term care. The company’s medical and dental plan pays a significant portion of costs. A company lunchroom provides meals at prices about 65% less than outside prices. Employees get one week of paid vacation after the first year and two weeks after two years with the company. Five days are provided each year for sick leave. In addition, there are 7 paid holidays each year. Finally, the company encourages advanced education, paying for tuition and supplies for courses directly related to an employee’s job. Under certain circumstances, employees are allowed time off to attend classes during the day. Jones also provides a 50% daycare discount for employees with young children.

After you have read the above situation carefully, respond to the following questions in a slide presentation of about 10 slides.

· What aspects of the Jones Investments benefits program are likely to appeal to Beutan? Explain.

· What aspects of the Jones benefit package would likely be the least appealing to Beutan? Discuss.

· In today’s work environment, what other benefits offered by employers might be attractive to Beutan? Why? Share examples of best-practice benefits offered by employers (discussing at least two employers by name). 

Use at least 2 library sources to help strengthen and support your presentation.

Prepare 10 slides and add a voice-over component (in PowerPoint). Be sure to present a list of references at the end of your presentation.

  • Which benefits at Jones Investments are likely to appeal to Beutan?,

  • Which benefits may be least appealing to Beutan?,

  • What other modern workplace benefits might attract someone like Beutan?,

  • What are some best-practice benefits offered by other employers?,

  • How can HR tailor benefits communication to individual needs?

July 22, 2025
July 22, 2025

Wellness Program Impact Analysis

Total Rewards in Practice

Case Assignment Overview

Signature Assignment: Quantitative Reasoning, Introduced Level

In this assignment, your quantitative reasoning skills will be assessed at the “introduced” level. The Quantitative Reasoning rubric will be useful for this purpose. Then in HRM520 your quantitative reasoning skills will be further assessed at the “reinforced” level. Finally, in HRM599 your skills will be assessed at the “mastered” level.

Wellness Program Impact Analysis

Case Assignment

This assignment requires you to:

Use online calculators to determine what impact wellness programs might have on an organization’s health care costs, absenteeism, and presenteeism. The assignment also shows the risks of doing nothing to try to curb those health insurance, absenteeism, and presenteeism costs.

To carry out the assignment, you are required to:

1. Complete 3 tables—one each for Health Care Costs, Absenteeism, and Presenteeism.

a. Use relevant data that you find from reputable sources for annual health care costs, number of employees, percent obese, and percent smokers. [If you cannot readily find actual data from searching sources, use fictitious data that seems realistic to you.] Select your own targets for percent obese and percent smokers.

b. To utilize your quantitative reasoning skills, it is important you analyze, synthesize, and accurately report your findings in a 3-page paper (not counting the title page, reference page, or appendices).

2. Feel free to use the same data for each table, but you should try to use examples of data that show significant differences when calculated.

3. Follow this link to the  calculators : https://www.wellsteps.com/roi/

Additional information can be found at  Well Steps  – https://www.wellsteps.com/resources/tools/.

Calculate the possible impact on health care costs, absenteeism, and presenteeism of wellness programs.

Prepare three tables in Word to show the data you choose. Your tables should be set up like this:

Health Care Costs:

Health Care Costs: Annual Health Care Costs Annual Cost Increase Number of Employees % of employees obese % that are smokers Target percent obese Target percent smokers
2019              
2020 projected              
2025 projected              

For some reason I could not add the whole chart. But this is what’s missing: Target percent smokers

Wellness Program Impact Analysis

Absenteeism:

Absenteeism: Annual Health Care Costs Annual Cost Increase Number of Employees % of employees obese % that are smokers Target percent obese Target percent smokers
2019              
2022 Do Nothing              
2022 Wellness Program Impact              
2025 Do Nothing              
2025 Wellness Program

Impact

             
               
               

Presenteeism:

Pre sen teeism: Annual Health Care Costs Annual Cost Increase Number of Employees % of employees obese % that are smokers % of employees 1 or more risk factor. Target percent obese Target percent smokers
2019                
2022 Do Nothing                
2022 Impact of Wellness                
2025 Do Nothing                
2025 Impact of Wellness Program                

Using critical thinking skills to prepare your narrative, you should summarize and analyze the data. Do not merely repeat the numbers without analyzing the findings and making recommendations for employers (and employees).

The paper you submit should include:

1. Title page

2. Three-page narrative, complete with a strong introduction and conclusion. Utilize at least two sources from the Trident Online Library as you develop the narrative. Include in-text citations following APA guidelines.

3. References page: Include your reference list on the next page that follows your narrative. List each source on the References page in APA format.

4. Appendices: Create three appendices, one each for Health Care Costs, Absenteeism, and Presenteeism. Include at least one graph to go along with each of the three tables (appendices). Clarify for your reader which graph relates to health care costs, absenteeism, and presenteeism.

Assignment Expectations

Your submission will be evaluated using the criteria as stated in the Quantitative Reasoning rubric. The following is a review of the rubric criteria:

Critical Thinking: Expressing quantitative analysis of data (factual information) to support the discussion showing what evidence is used and how it is contextualized.

Interpretation: Explaining information presented in mathematical terms (e.g., equations, graphs, diagrams, tables, words)

Presentation: Ability to convert relevant information into various mathematical terms (e.g., equations, graphs, diagrams, tables, words)

Conclusions: Drawing appropriate conclusions based on the analysis of factual information/data.

Timeliness: Assignment submitted on time or with professor’s pre-approved assignment extension.

Wellness Program Impact Analysis

  1. What data do you use to analyze health care costs, absenteeism, and presenteeism?,

  2. How does a wellness program impact health care costs compared to doing nothing?,

  3. What are the measurable effects of wellness initiatives on absenteeism?,

  4. How does presenteeism differ under wellness programs versus no intervention?,

  5. What conclusions and recommendations can be drawn from the data?

July 22, 2025
July 22, 2025

Organizational Culture Perspectives

 This Reaction Paper (2 pages TOTAL) requires reading four brief LINKEDIN articles by S. McHale, summarizing them (in the first 1.5 pages) in outline/bullet-point form, and then WATCHING the SCHEIN video and READING the MORGAN CHAPTER (all of which are included on our “Mod 3 Learning Materials page). Finally, in the final half-page of your reaction paper, compare two “views of culture” as per the detailed instructions below. 

Organizational Culture Perspectives

Here is  a SAMPLE (by your classmate SAM POOLE) to give you a clearer idea of expectations.

FULL INSTRUCTIONS:

Organizational Culture Perspectives

1. Read Morgan, chapter 5 (using the Brytewave menu link). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wd1bsxWeM6Q

2. View  Edgar Schein & organizational culture Links to an external site. A black and grey play button  Description automatically generated

3. Read the following four brief case studies by Siobhan McHale:

· The BIG reason why 70% of change efforts failLinks to an external site. (10/15/18). https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/big-reason-why-70-change-efforts-fail-siobhan-mchale/

· Does fear drive performanceLinks to an external site.? (11/27/18) https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/can-fear-create-high-performance-culture-siobhan-mchale/

· The fall of Enron: A values brochure won’t fix the cultureLinks to an external site. (09/11/18) https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/values-brochure-wont-fix-culture-siobhan-mchale/

· What you’ve been told about culture is wrongLinks to an external site. (part 1, 06/18/18) https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-youve-been-told-culture-wrong-siobhan-mchale/

 

2. Write up an outline of  1.5 pages: Although you are being asked to write up a brief OUTLINE (or bullet point format) — and NOT an essay — please be sure to use and define terms from the readings, and cite appropriately, to demonstrate your mastery of the learning materials:

· Summarize the key ideas of McHale’s view of culture (e.g., emergent patterns of relating).

Final half-page:

· In a brief three-paragraph “reaction,” compare and contrast TWO of the THREE viewpoints (McHale, Schein, & Morgan’s).

· Summarize EITHER Schein’s view of culture OR Morgan’s view of culture.

· (You have already summarized McHale’s view of culture, in the “outline” portion of your reaction paper).

·  As you write about TWO of the THREE views of culture, consider:

· What do they have in common?

· How are they different?

· Which one do you feel is most effective as a management approach? (And why?

Organizational Culture Perspectives

  1. What are the key points from each of the four Siobhan McHale LinkedIn articles?,

  2. What is McHale’s view of organizational culture?,

  3. What is Schein’s view of organizational culture?,

  4. What are the similarities and differences between McHale’s and Schein’s views?,

  5. Which cultural perspective is more effective as a management approach, and why?

July 22, 2025
July 22, 2025

Nonprofit Organization Comparison

Nonprofit Organizations: Comparison of Types

The nonprofit sector is differentiated into many different types of organizations. As you move into working with nonprofit organizations, it is important to understand the similarities and differences between the two. For this assignment, you will choose two different types of nonprofit organizations and compare them.

Prior to beginning work on this assignment, read the following:

· Chapters 2 and 3 in the textbook. Worth, M. J. (2024).  Nonprofit management: Principles and practices  (7th ed.). SAGE Publications.

Nonprofit Organization Comparison

· Organization Reference Chart Links to an external site. .

· Many Types of Nonprofits Links to an external site. .

In your paper,

Nonprofit Organization Comparison

· Identify the two different types of nonprofit organizations (e.g., 501(c)3, 501(c)4, 501(c)6) that you would like to compare.

· State the purpose of each of the nonprofit types you chose.

· Provide at least one example of each type of nonprofit organization you chose (e.g., library, religious organization, Red Cross, Goodwill, VA organizations).

· Discuss what services the two organizations provide and what populations they serve.

· Discuss at least two similarities and two differences in the two nonprofit organizations you chose.

· Explain the importance or significance of these similarities and differences.

The Nonprofit Organizations: Comparison of Types assignment

· Must be three to five double-spaced pages in length (not including title and references pages) and formatted according to  APA Style Links to an external site.  as outlined in the Writing Center’s  APA Formatting for Microsoft Word Links to an external site.  resource.

· Must utilize academic voice. See the  Academic Voice Links to an external site.  resource for additional guidance.

· Must include an introduction and conclusion paragraph. Your introduction paragraph needs to end with a clear thesis statement that indicates the purpose of your paper.

· For assistance on writing  Introductions & Conclusions Links to an external site.  and  Writing a Thesis Statement Links to an external site. , refer to the Writing Center resources.

· Must use at least three credible sources in addition to the course text.

· The  Scholarly, Peer-Reviewed, and Other Credible Sources Links to an external site.  table offers additional guidance on appropriate source types. If you have questions about whether a specific source is appropriate for this assignment, please contact your instructor. Your instructor has the final say about the appropriateness of a specific source.

· To assist you in completing the research required for this assignment, view  Quick and Easy Library Research Links to an external site.  tutorial, which introduces the University of Arizona Global Campus Library and the research process, and provides some library search tips.

· Must document any information used from sources in APA Style as outlined in the Writing Center’s  APA: Citing Within Your Paper  Links to an external site. guide.

· Must include a separate references page that is formatted according to APA Style as outlined in the Writing Center. See the  APA: Formatting Your References List Links to an external site.  resource in the Writing Center for specifications.

Nonprofit Organization Comparison

  • What two types of nonprofit organizations will be compared?,

  • What is the purpose of each nonprofit type?,

  • What is one example of each nonprofit type?,

  • What services do these organizations provide, and who do they serve?,

  • What are at least two similarities and two differences between the two organizations, and why are they significant?

July 22, 2025
July 22, 2025

SpaceX Strategic Analysis

Points: 100

Overview: In this assignment, you will review Case Study #12: SpaceX. This case describes Elon

Musk’s unique approach to strategy when creating SpaceX. Think about the types of

strategies from chapters 5 and 6 that Elon Musk utilized.

Instructions: You will need to review the case study in your textbook, then answer the following

questions utilizing topics covered in previous chapters.

SpaceX Strategic Analysis

• What were Elon Musk’s motives for creating SpaceX? How do these motives

influence the kinds of decisions he made in creating the firm?

• Thinking about Musk’s prior experiences, capabilities, and motives, what do you

think are his strengths and weaknesses in creating SpaceX?

• What did SpaceX do differently from other space companies?

• Discuss whether you believe the incumbent space companies will adopt

elements of SpaceX’s model (be specific about which). Do you think the

incumbents will survive? Do you believe Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin is a significant

threat?

Requirements:

• Submit a two-three page Word document covering the elements of the

assignment.

• Develop a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Use paragraph format and

transitions.

• Focus on the quality of writing and content.

• Use APA format with a title page, in-text citations, and references. Abstract is not

required. The title page, reference page, and appendices are excluded in page

length requirement.

• Research and cite at least two credible sources in APA format.

Be sure to read the criteria below by which your work will be evaluated before you write and again after you write.

BUS411 – Business Policy Seminar

SpaceX

SpaceX Strategic Analysis

Evaluation Rubric for SpaceX Assignment

CRITERIA Deficient Needs Improvement

Proficient Exemplary

0-11 points 12-15 points 16-17 points 18-20 points

Introduction Unclear or incomplete.

Introduction with a partially developed thesis.

Introduction with a mostly developed thesis.

Clear, well- developed, introduction and thesis.

0-17 points 18-23 points 24-26 points 27-30 points

Supporting Evidence/ Analysis

Lacks specific, credible, and relevant support. Development of position/argum ent is inadequate or missing.

Not adequately supported with a limited spectrum of specific, credible, and relevant evidence. Development of position/argum ent is somewhat thoughtful and persuasive but lacks detail.

Adequately supported with a limited spectrum of specific, credible, and relevant evidence. Development of position/argum ent is thoughtful and persuasive but lacks some detail.

Well-supported with a broad spectrum of specific, credible, and relevant evidence. Position/argum ent is well- developed, very thoughtful, and persuasive.

0-11 points 12-15 points 16-17 points 18-20 points

Conclusion Conclusion not included.

Some attempt at a conclusion, but it is not well written.

Good attempt at a conclusion, but more development needed.

Well written and fully developed conclusion.

0-8 points 9-11 points 12-13 points 14-15 points

Clear and Professional Writing

Writing is frequently difficult to understand because of several errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Word choice

Writing is somewhat difficult to understand with errors in punctuation, spelling, and grammar. Appropriate word choice is

Writing is easy to understand despite minor errors in punctuation, spelling, and grammar. Appropriate word choice is used for an

Writing is free of almost all punctuation, spelling, and grammar errors. Appropriate word choice is used for an academic

SpaceX Strategic Analysis

is sometimes inappropriate for an academic setting. Sentence structure is unclear.

somewhat used for an academic setting. Sentence structure is somewhat clear.

academic setting. Sentence structure is mostly clear.

setting. Sentence structure is clear.

0-8 points 9-11 points 12-13 points 14-15 points

APA Formatting and References

Paper has no APA formatting, or paper has an APA cover, but no references or in-text citations. No academic references present or reference formatting has significant errors.

Paper lacks multiple elements of APA (cover, references, or in-text citations). One academic reference present but errors in formatting.

Paper lacks one element of APA (cover, references, or in-text citations). Two academic references present but may have a few errors in formatting.

Paper has all elements of APA formatting (cover, references, and in-text citations). Two or more academic references are present and formatted properly.

  • What were Elon Musk’s motives for creating SpaceX, and how did these motives influence his decisions?,

  • Based on Musk’s prior experience, what are his strengths and weaknesses in founding SpaceX?,

  • What did SpaceX do differently than other space companies?,

  • Will incumbent space companies adopt SpaceX’s model? Will they survive?,

  • Is Blue Origin a significant threat to SpaceX?

July 22, 2025
July 22, 2025

Evaluating Change Interventions

The last part of a change process typically includes the analysis and monitoring of any interventions that were implemented. This process entails data collection and measuring outcomes. The analysis would also require assessing the actual effectiveness of the interventions.

Once the initial effectiveness of interventions is determined, it is important to continue with routine or regular follow-up evaluations These evaluations would enable organizations to do the following:

Identify any other areas requiring improvement
Track progress
Make any necessary adjustments to the interventions
Answer the following questions:

Evaluating Change Interventions

What are some examples of ways to analyze the effectiveness of organizational development (OD) interventions?,
Why is key stakeholder involvement and feedback important to evaluate success of OD interventions?,
What monitoring strategy would you recommend to ensure that OD interventions are maintained?,
Reflect on a successful change that you were a part of. What advice would you give to help others manage change?,
Your final submission should consist of a 5–7-page Word document (including cover page and resource page).

Please use this template to complete your work.

1. Examples of Analyzing OD Effectiveness

Evaluating Change Interventions

Organizations use a variety of methods to assess the impact of OD interventions. These include:

  • Performance Metrics: Measuring pre- and post-intervention data such as productivity, turnover, or financial performance.

  • Surveys: Gathering employee feedback through standardized surveys to assess engagement, morale, and satisfaction.

  • 360-Degree Feedback: Collecting evaluations from peers, supervisors, and subordinates to gauge behavioral and leadership changes.

  • Observation: Watching team dynamics, communication, and decision-making processes in real time.

  • Comparative Benchmarking: Comparing results against industry standards or similar organizations to assess performance improvements.


2. Importance of Stakeholder Involvement

Engaging stakeholders in the evaluation process is crucial because:

  • Ownership and Buy-In: When stakeholders are involved, they feel responsible for the outcomes, increasing support for the intervention.

  • Diverse Perspectives: Different departments or levels offer valuable insights into how the change affects operations and culture.

  • Better Decision-Making: Their feedback helps tailor solutions that are more practical and widely accepted.

  • Accountability: Encourages transparency and builds trust in the process.

  • Continuous Improvement: Stakeholder input can highlight gaps or missed opportunities that lead to refinement.


3. Recommended Monitoring Strategy

To ensure that OD interventions are sustained, a structured monitoring plan is essential. A strong strategy includes:

  • Defined Success Metrics: Clearly outline what indicators will measure success (e.g., retention rate, customer satisfaction).

  • Regular Checkpoints: Schedule reviews monthly, quarterly, or bi-annually to evaluate progress.

  • Responsibility Assignment: Appoint change champions or team leaders to oversee the monitoring.

  • Feedback Channels: Encourage open communication through suggestion boxes, regular team meetings, or anonymous surveys.

  • Technology Tools: Use dashboards or project management systems for tracking real-time data and trends.


4. Advice from a Successful Change Experience

In general, success in change initiatives stems from strategic planning and strong communication. Helpful tips include:

  • Start with a Clear Vision: Ensure everyone understands the purpose and expected outcomes of the change.

  • Communicate Frequently: Share updates regularly and invite input from all levels.

  • Empower Employees: Involve team members in planning and decision-making to increase engagement.

  • Be Patient but Persistent: Change takes time; setbacks are normal.

  • Celebrate Milestones: Recognize progress to maintain motivation and support.

Evaluating Change Interventions


5. Importance of Follow-Up Evaluations

Follow-up evaluations ensure that improvements are sustainable and adaptable over time. They help to:

  • Detect New Challenges: Identify emerging issues before they grow.

  • Measure Long-Term Impact: Some benefits only show over extended periods.

  • Adjust Interventions: Make real-time corrections if something isn’t working.

  • Encourage Accountability: Keeps leaders and teams focused on goals.

  • Build a Culture of Learning: Continuous evaluation fosters a mindset of growth and improvement.

July 21, 2025
July 21, 2025

Global Reverse Logistics Challenges

  • What special issues might a reverse logistics department have to deal with when operating in different countries? For example, how might customs regulations, tariffs, or even different environmental laws affect returns, repairs, or recycling efforts in international markets?
  • Can any business operate internationally? What might be required to set up operations abroad? Are there specific licenses, certifications, or compliance standards that need to be met before a company can do business overseas?

Global Reverse Logistics Challenges

I encourage you to bring in examples from global companies you know, or if you’re familiar with specific industries, share how international reverse logistics might differ across those sectors. Consider how technology and innovation might address some of these challenges or make global reverse logistics more efficient.

Global Reverse Logistics Challenges

  1. What issues do reverse logistics departments face internationally?,

  2. How do customs, tariffs, and environmental laws affect global returns and recycling?,

  3. Can any business operate internationally?,

  4. What is required to set up international operations?,

  5. How can technology help overcome reverse logistics challenges?


Comprehensive General Response:

Operating a reverse logistics department across different countries introduces a range of challenges that go beyond the typical complexities of managing returns, repairs, and recycling. These challenges are shaped by diverse international laws, infrastructure capabilities, and geopolitical considerations.


1. Special Issues in International Reverse Logistics
Reverse logistics functions—returns, repairs, remanufacturing, and recycling—are more complex internationally due to varying regulations. Some major issues include:

  • Customs Regulations: Countries may classify returned goods differently than exported goods. This can lead to delays, additional documentation requirements, or refusal at the border.

  • Tariffs and Taxes: Some countries impose tariffs even on returned goods, making reverse logistics more costly. For example, products returned to the EU may face VAT charges unless properly documented.

  • Environmental Regulations: Differences in environmental compliance laws affect how waste is handled. For instance, electronic waste (e-waste) has to be processed according to the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive in the EU, which may not align with U.S. standards.

  • Infrastructure Limitations: Some countries may lack the logistics infrastructure necessary to efficiently handle returns or recycling, forcing companies to create more expensive or slower alternatives.


2. Setting Up International Operations
While many businesses can go international, doing so successfully requires a clear understanding of the legal and operational landscape:

  • Licenses and Permits: Businesses must acquire import/export licenses, often country-specific, and meet industry-specific regulations.

  • Certifications and Compliance: Certain sectors require compliance with international standards such as ISO 14001 (environmental management), or industry-specific standards like CE marking in Europe.

  • Local Partnerships: Working with local service providers and understanding regional business culture is crucial to reverse logistics success.

  • Regulatory Navigation: For example, a company dealing in electronics must comply with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) if operating in the EU.

Global Reverse Logistics Challenges

3. Industry Examples and Variation

  • Automotive Industry: Major players like Ford or Toyota manage massive international reverse logistics operations, often shipping defective parts back to regional hubs for analysis or remanufacture. These efforts are heavily influenced by local emissions laws or part disposal standards.

  • Fashion Industry: Brands like Zara and H&M must navigate international customs and return policies that vary by region. In countries with weak return infrastructure, resale or recycling may be difficult, increasing costs or landfill contributions.

  • Consumer Electronics: Apple maintains global service networks, but the company must comply with specific country laws on e-waste disposal and battery recycling, requiring custom solutions in different markets.

Global Reverse Logistics Challenges


4. The Role of Technology and Innovation
Technology plays a key role in streamlining global reverse logistics:

  • Tracking Systems: GPS, RFID, and blockchain help monitor returned goods across borders, providing real-time visibility and improving accountability.

  • Automation: AI-powered systems can assess return eligibility, calculate restocking fees, or reroute items based on location or demand.

  • Sustainability Platforms: Platforms that measure carbon impact of returns allow companies to optimize or even reduce unnecessary shipments by offering in-region repair or refund credits.

July 21, 2025
July 21, 2025

Exercise Completion Process

1. Read Carefully: Carefully read the exercise instructions in your textbook to understand its purpose and objectives.

2. Gather Materials: Collect any required materials for the exercise before starting.

Exercise Completion Process

3. Set a Time Frame: Allocate an appropriate amount of time based on the exercise’s complexity.

4. Follow Steps: Follow the provided steps in the textbook, noting any guidelines or questions.

5. Record Thoughts: Take notes as you work through the exercise, recording observations, thoughts, and insights.

6. Complete All Tasks: Ensure you complete all tasks or questions in the exercise.

7. Review and Edit: After finishing, review and edit your notes and responses.

10. Format: Include a properly formatted APA Cover Sheet & Reference Page

  • Exercise Completion Process
  1. What is the purpose of the exercise according to the textbook?,

  2. What materials are required to complete the exercise?,

  3. How much time is needed to complete the exercise?,

  4. What steps are provided in the textbook to follow during the exercise?,

  5. What were your key observations and insights while completing the exercise?


Comprehensive General Response:

Purpose of the Exercise:
The exercise aims to guide the student through a structured learning process, helping them engage more deeply with the material and practice active learning. It emphasizes comprehension, critical thinking, and reflection.

Required Materials:
Materials typically include the textbook, a notebook or digital device for note-taking, any assigned readings or case studies, and possibly access to scholarly articles or online resources, depending on the subject of the exercise.

Time Frame:
The time needed varies by complexity, but for an in-depth exercise involving reading, note-taking, and reflection, a recommended allocation might be 45–60 minutes. Setting a timer or blocking out specific study time can aid in focused completion.

Steps Followed:

  • The exercise begins with a careful reading of the instructions to determine the intended outcomes.

  • Materials are gathered in advance to minimize disruptions.

  • Each step of the activity is followed as outlined, including answering questions and analyzing provided scenarios or examples.

  • Observations and thoughts are recorded throughout the process to support deeper reflection and learning.

Exercise Completion Process

Observations and Insights:
While completing the exercise, I noticed that breaking the task into steps made it more manageable and increased my understanding of the content. Writing down thoughts during the process helped clarify concepts and identify areas needing further study. One key insight was the importance of aligning my responses with both the exercise objectives and real-world application.

APA Cover Sheet and Reference Page:
To meet formal academic standards, the assignment includes:

  • A properly formatted APA Cover Page with the assignment title, student’s name, institutional affiliation, course number, instructor name, and date.

  • An APA Reference Page listing any textbook, article, or external source consulted (if applicable), even if only the textbook was used.

July 21, 2025
July 21, 2025

Invasive Species Reflection

Culture-Nature Lab Assignment: Topic Invasive Species (25 Points)

Why are you doing this assignment? It meets the Module 14 outcomes 1-4, that are

aligned with the Student Learning Outcomes 1-4 in the syllabus.

 Invasive Species Reflection

This assignment is worth 25 points and is divided into three parts.

Part I: you have to review the documentary Cane Toad: An Unnatural History. (15

points)

Part II: you have to do an internet research on an invasive species in Lake Michigan. (5

points)

Part III: you have to find a news article from THE GUARDIAN on an invasive species

to generate self-awareness. (5 points)

BEFORE you begin, you might want to know: Why did I choose a dated documentary like The

Cane Toad?

The Cane Toad documentary is dated. That is true. However, it is one of the best documentaries that

show the complicated entanglements (both negative and positive) between an invasive species and

human beings. There is no other documentary that come close to it. Most of the latest documentaries

only talk about the negatives. Here is one, if interested you can watch this (and you will only see the

negatives): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKh8Lc31rm8

The only other one that I can remember is invasive but is simultaneously celebrated as a sign of

America’s Old West and disliked is the tumbleweed. Watch this:

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/mar/04/tumbleweeds-utah-south-jordan-eagle-

mountain

I hope this clarifies, why I chose The Cane toad!

Invasive Species Reflection

PLEASE NUMBER YOUR ANSWERS.

PART I (15 points):

Please watch the documentary CANE TOAD: AN UNNATURAL HISTORY (link:

https://youtu.be/wkxwrpJg5W0?si=PNsNUHL0IPwxPCPM ). Its video quality is a bit poor.

My sincerest apologies in advance.

After you watch the documentary, you need to do the following:

1. SUMMARIZE the documentary stating at least three ways in which the Cane Toad

is loved. (3 Points)

If you clearly indicate your three points, you will ace this part.

Invasive Species Reflection

 

 

2

2. SUMMARIZE the documentary stating at least three ways in which the Cane Toad

is hated in Australia. (3 Points)

If you clearly indicate your three points, you will ace this part.

 

3. USE ANY ONE CONCEPT FROM CLASS to explain the documentary.

 

Please REFER TO HANDOUT on CULTURE-NATURE i.e. see handout on

“Invasive species a few concepts to understand”. Concepts are used to explain

questions of HOW and/or WHY something is the way it is. For example, you can

discuss how the introduction and the chain of reactions to Cane Toads show that we

never have a pure nature out there and a socio-cultural sphere in here. But that we

have a social-nature, where humans can introduce a species to an environment and get

impacted by it in turn. Or you can point to how there are complex relations between

Cane Toads and human beings. OR you can use any of the other concepts that I

outline in that part of the handout. (4 points)

 

 

4. Write your any ONE INFORMED personal take-away you have from the

documentary. (5 points)

 

PART II (5 points):

Please do some online research on an invasive species in Lake Michigan. You can also

virtually visit the Shedd Aquarium (Chicago) if you have the time to do so and do this

research.

Select any one invasive species.

5. Discuss what are the effects of that introduction of invasive species in Lake Michigan,

including how has the invasive species interacted with the ecosystem and how

fisherfolk and others view and regard that particular invasive species. (4 points)

 

6. Write your own ONE informed take-away point from the research that you did on

the invasive species in Lake Michigan. (1 point)

Part III (5 Points):

Keeping yourself updated and creating self-awareness! Find any news from THE

GUARDIAN news website ONLY, on an invasive species. In the search box of the news site

punch in “invasive species” and see what you are getting. Select any ONE news dated within

the last 5 years (i.e. between 2019-2025). Please do not select any other news site. The date

must be between 2019-2025.

7. Please write a summary of the news piece that you found on invasive species in The

Guardian, such that it can be posted on a social media site. (4 points)

8. What is your ONE take-away from this news piece from The Guardian on invasive

  • What are three ways the Cane Toad is loved in the documentary?,

  • What are three ways the Cane Toad is hated in Australia?,

  • How does one class concept help explain the Cane Toad situation?,

  • What is your personal takeaway from the documentary?,

  • What is the impact of an invasive species in Lake Michigan?

July 21, 2025
July 21, 2025

Satan’s Fractured Identity

Instructions: you’ll write a 1-page, single-spaced thesis on Milton, PL, book 4. The assignment should follow standard organization, with a heading on the top left corner, paragraphs, topic sentences, transitions, and quotations from the text. you need to make an original argument and reinforce that argument with close readings from the text. your assignment needs to have the essentials of a thesis-driven argument, solid organization, concise and lucid writing, and zero plot summary. Make sure the thesis statement is in the first paragraph in the beginning.

Satan’s Fractured Identity

Satan’s Fractured Identity

  1. What original argument can be made about Paradise Lost Book 4?,

  2. How does Milton use literary devices to support this argument?,

  3. What evidence from Satan’s dialogue supports your thesis? ,

  4. How does the organization of the essay reinforce the thesis?,

  5. How can the analysis avoid plot summary while offering deep interpretation?

Satan’s Fractured Identity


Comprehensive General Response (1-Page Thesis Essay, Single-Spaced, MLA Style):

Student Name
Professor’s Name
Course: English British Renaissance Literature
Date

Satan’s Fractured Identity in Book 4 of Paradise Lost

In Book 4 of Paradise Lost, John Milton crafts Satan not simply as a symbol of evil, but as a fractured being, torn between self-awareness and defiance. Milton uses Satan’s internal soliloquies, disrupted logic, and conflicted language to portray the fallen angel’s identity as fundamentally divided—marked by a simultaneous yearning for lost grace and an entrenched refusal to repent. This duality reveals that Satan’s rebellion is not rooted in strength, but in deep psychological fragmentation, making him a tragic figure rather than a purely villainous one.

Satan’s monologue upon entering Eden sets the tone for this internal rupture. Though he arrives with intent to corrupt, he is momentarily overcome by Eden’s peace, which awakens in him an unbearable contrast to his own torment. He laments, “Me miserable! which way shall I fly / Infinite wrath, and infinite despair?” (4.73–74). This outcry suggests that Satan is not comfortably defiant but trapped between awareness of God’s justice and his inability to submit. His use of rhetorical questions and abrupt emotional shifts reveals a self torn by contradiction.

Milton further deepens this sense of division through Satan’s acknowledgment of his own role in his fall: “Which way I fly is Hell; myself am Hell” (4.75). This admission is profound—Satan is no longer merely in Hell; he carries it within. His identity is inseparable from his punishment, showing that the true consequence of his rebellion is internalized damnation. Milton does not present evil as powerful autonomy, but as self-inflicted exile.

Even Satan’s attempt to justify his continued rebellion lacks conviction: “Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heaven” (1.263), echoed subtly in Book 4 as a mantra to reinforce his pride. Yet the very need to restate such declarations suggests insecurity. Milton shows that Satan’s bravado masks a deeper vulnerability, one that betrays a being caught between the memory of who he was and the horror of who he has become.

In crafting Satan’s inner conflict, Milton complicates the morality of rebellion. Book 4 does not present a clear opposition between good and evil, but rather a portrait of a mind unraveling under the weight of its

Satan’s Fractured Identity